The Quint
05 August 2019
The Centre on Monday, 5 August, revoked Article 370, which confers special status to Jammu & Kashmir, through a Presidential Order. Home Minister Amit Shah also moved a Bill to bifurcate the state into two union territories – Jammu Kashmir as one and Ladakh as the other.
Article 370, now scrapped, had conferred special status to Jammu & Kashmir
The Reorganisation Bill proposes Ladakh as a union territory without legislature
It also proposes J&K to be a union territory with a state legislature
Former CMs Mehbooba Mufti, Omar Abdullah placed under house arrest
Section 144 imposed in Srinagar, Jammu, internet services suspended
RSS Welcomes Resolution to Revoke Article 370
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh welcomed the resolution revoking Article 370.
“This was very essential for interest of J&K as well as the entire country. Rising from selfish motives and political differences, everyone should welcome support this move,”said RSS statement.
2:13 PM, 05 AUG
Ensure Safety & Security of J&K Students: Centre Tells States
Ministry of Home Affairs issues an order to Chief Secretaries & Director Generals of Police (DGPs) of all state/UTs to take special care to ensure the safety and security of residents of Jammu & Kashmir, especially the students in various parts of the country.
2:03 PM, 05 AUG
Revoking Article 370 a Constitutional Monstrosity: P Chidambaram
Revoking Article 370 in J&K a constitutional monstrosity, can happen in any other state of India, said Congress’ P Chidambaram.
“The govt has illegally disintegrated J&K. This will set a precedent and allow the govt to disintegrate any state as per its will and we will not stand by this.”
P Chidambaram.
1:44 PM, 05 AUG
J&K Reorganisation Bill Expected to Be Passed in RS Today
The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation bill, which is expected to be passed in Rajya Sabha today, will be brought to Lok Sabha on 6 August.
12:43 PM, 05 AUG
Revocation of Article 370 Will Have Dangerous Consequences: Omar Abdullah
Vice-President of National Conference and former J&K CM Omar Abdullah said that the revocation of Article 370 will have “far-reaching and dangerous consequences.”
12:36 PM, 05 AUG
Jammu Kashmir News: 8,000 Paramilitary Troops Airlifted to Kashmir
Close to 8,000 paramilitary troops airlifted and moved in from Uttar Pradesh, Odisha, Assam and other parts of the country to the Kashmir valley.
Troops induction still going on, reported ANI
Jammu Kashmir News: PDP MPs Asked to Leave RS After Attempt to Tear Constitution
According to Rajya Sabha Chairman Venkaiah Naidu, PDP's Mir Fayaz and Nazir Ahmed Laway were asked to go out of the Rajya Sabha after they attempted to tear the Constitution.
11:54 AM, 05 AUG
Jammu Kashmir News: PM Modi to Address Nation on 7 August
11:49 AM, 05 AUG
Jammu Kashmir News: Decision to Align With India Backfired: Mehbooba Mufti
11:39 AM, 05 AUG
Kashmir Bifurcation: Amit Shah Proposes Bifurcation of J&K Into Two Union Territories
Home Minister Amit Shah introducing the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill proposed the bifurcation of the state.
The Centre has proposed Ladakh becoming a Union Territory without a legislature and that Jammu & Kashmir be a Union Territory with a legislature.
11:26 AM, 05 AUG
Article 370 to Be Revoked, Proposes Amit Shah
The Centre on Monday, 5 August, revoked Article 370, which confers special status to Jammu & Kashmir, through a Presidential Order. Home Minister Amit Shah also moved a Bill to bifurcate the state into two union territories – Jammu Kashmir as one and Ladakh as the other.
Notwithstanding what Shah has said, the Presidential Order doesn’t scrap Article 370 in so many words.
It expressly supersedes the Constitutional Order which brought in Article 35A.
It effectively revokes Article 370 because it says that all provisions of the Constitution apply to Jammu & Kashmir.
It opens the door to repeal of Article 370 by modifying the wording of Article 370(3) so that the Legislative Assembly of J&K can give approval to remove Article 370.
11:11 AM, 05 AUG
'War-Like Situation in Kashmir,' Says Ghulam Nabi Azad
Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad raises objections before Home Minister Amit Shah’s address on J&K in Rajya Sabha.
“There is a war-like situation in Kashmir... former CMs are under House arrest... we need to discuss this first,” said Ghulam Nabi Azad.
11:06 AM, 05 AUG
Amit Shah to Addresses Parliament
Home Minister Amit Shah proposing some new legislations, says Rajya Sabha Chairperson Venkaiah Naidu.
10:58 AM, 05 AUG
Entire Country Waiting to Exhale Over Kashmir: Anand Mahindra
10:54 AM, 05 AUG
Normalcy Prevails in Leh
10:17 AM, 05 AUG
Three Line Whips Issued to BJP MPs on Friday
10:14 AM, 05 AUG
Cabinet Meet Concludes
Amid heightened tensions in Kashmir and heavy troop deployment across the Valley, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-chaired Union Cabinet meeting concludes.
10:09 AM, 05 AUG
Amit Shah to Make Statement on Kashmir Situation in Parliament
Union Home Minister Amit Shah to make statement on Kashmir issue in Parliament at 11 am.
10:00 AM, 05 AUG
Sensex Cracks Amid Kashmir Crisis
Sensex cracks 531.94 points to 36,586.28, Nifty depreciated by 171.05 points to 10,826.30, amid tensions in the Valley.
9:42 AM, 05 AUG
PDP MP Gives Zero Hour Notice Over Kashmir Situation
People's Democratic Party (PDP)'s Rajya Sabha MP, Nazir Ahmad Laway has given Zero Hour notice in the House over Kashmir issue.
9:18 AM, 05 AUG
Centre to Issue Statement on J&K in Lok Sabha
The Centre will issue a statement in Lok Sabha over prevailing tension in Jammu and Kashmir, reported Economic Times.
9:05 AM, 05 AUG
Manish Tewari Gives Adjournment Notice in Parliament
Manish Tewari has given adjournment notice on the situation in Kashmir, wants PM Narendra Modi to reply.
8:35 AM, 05 AUG
Amit Shah, NSA Doval in Modi's Residence
Home Minister Amit Shah and NSA Ajit Doval reach Prme Minister Narendra Modi’s residence ahead of the cabinet meeting.
8:32 AM, 05 AUG
Schools to Reopen Normally in Ladakh
Schools to reopen normally today in Ladakh region after summer vacations, classes to resume normally in colleges and other educational institutions too. Restrictions under Section 144 CrPC have not been imposed in the region.
8:31 AM, 05 AUG
Govt Determined to Embark Upon J&K Misadventure: Chidambaram
Senior Congress leader P Chidambaram tweeted that the government was "determined" to embark upon a misadventure in Kashmir.
7:28 AM, 05 AUG
Kashmir on Edge: Heavy Deployment of Troops in Rajouri
Videos have emerged on Twitter showing heavy deployment of forces in J&K’s Rajouri.
1:56 AM, 05 AUG
Section 144 Imposed in Jammu
Section 144 of Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) will be imposed in Jammu from 6 am, on Monday, 5 August, till further orders, said Sushma Chauhan, District Magistrate, Jammu.
1:18 AM, 05 AUG
University of Jammu to Remain Closed on Monday
University of Jammu will remain closed on 5 August, Vinay Thusoo, spokesperson confirmed. He further added that fresh dates shall be notified later.
12:59 AM, 05 AUG
Israel Issues Travel Advisory Asking Its Citizens to Leave Kashmir
Israel becomes the fourth country to issue Travel Advisory asking its citizen to leave Kashmir.
‘The counterterrorism headquarters is urging Israeli travelers to avoid visiting Kashmir region (except for Ladakh province), and to leave the area immediately’, advisory said.
12:30 AM, 05 AUG
Section 144 Imposed in Srinagar
Restrictions were imposed under section 144 CrPC in district Srinagar with effect from midnight 5th August (Monday) which shall remain in force till further orders.
There shall be no movement of public and all educational institutions shall also remain closed.
“There will be a complete bar on holding any kind of public meetings or rallies during the period of operation of this order. It should be noted that there will be no curfew in place as reported in a section of the media,” the state government said.
12:24 AM, 05 AUG
Congress Leader Usman Majid and CPI(M) Mla M Y Tarigami Arrested
Congress leader Usman Majid and CPI(M) MLA M Y Tarigami were arrested on Sunday amid continuing tensions in Jammu and Kashmir.
12:20 AM, 05 AUG
Mehbooba Mufti Under House Arrest
‘The world watches as people & their voices are being muzzled in J&K,’ said Mehbooba Mufti after she was placed under house arrest on Sunday night.
12:16 AM, 05 AUG
Schools, Colleges, Academic Institutions to Remain Close As 'Measure of Caution'
Sushma Chauhan, Deputy Commissioner, Jammu advised all schools, colleges and academic institutions to remain close as a measure of caution.
Schools & colleges to remain closed in Kathua from 5th August till further orders, as a measure of caution, Raghav Langer, Deputy Commissioner Kathua confirmed.
11:46 PM, 04 AUG
'Being Placed Under House Arrest': Omar Abdullah
Former J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday night said he is being be placed under house arrest.
11:08 PM, 04 AUG
Mobile Internet Services Suspended in Kashmir Valley
Mobile services have been suspended in the Kashmir valley amid unrest in Jammu and Kashmir.
11:04 PM, 04 AUG
'Yasin Malik is Alright': Malik's Lawyer Confirms Amid Rumours Surrounding His Health
The rumours surrounding the health condition of JKLF chief Yasin Malik are unfounded and he is alright, Greater Kashmir reported on Sunday.
Reports quoting Raja Tufail, the advocate defending Yasin Malik, said that the jail authorities at Tihar have confirmed to him that the incarcerated JKLF leader was okay.
6:48 PM, 04 AUG
Amid Tensions, All-Party Meet Underway in J&K’s Srinagar
Amidst continuing tensions in Jammu and Kashmir, an all-party meeting is underway in National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah’s residence, after they could not hold a meeting at a hotel due to a police advisory.
6:13 PM, 04 AUG
Party Will Oppose Any Bid to Abrogate Art 35A, 370: NC
The National Conference on Sunday voiced concern over the “uncertain and uptight” situation in Jammu and Kashmir and said the party would fight against any infringement of the special constitutional status of the state.
The NC had a four-hour-long meeting of its party's political affairs committee (PAC) over the current situation in the valley. The meeting was chaired by party vice-president Omar Abdullah.
After the meeting, an NC spokesperson said, the party called for "effective and immediate" measures to instill confidence among the people in Kashmir.
He said the party is willing to go an extra mile to defend Article 370 and Article 35A of the Constitution.
5:30 PM, 04 AUG
Party Will Oppose Any Bid to Abrogate Article 35A, 370: NC
The National Conference on Sunday voiced concern over the “uncertain and uptight” situation in Jammu and Kashmir and said the party would fight against any infringement of the special constitutional status of the state.
The NC had a four-hour-long meeting of its party's political affairs committee (PAC) over the current situation in the valley. The meeting was chaired by party vice-president Omar Abdullah.
After the meeting, an NC spokesperson said, the party called for "effective and immediate" measures to instill confidence among the people in Kashmir.
5:17 PM, 04 AUG
Imran Khan Criticises India for 'Attack Across LoC'
In a series of tweets, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, on Sunday, blamed India for “attacks across LoC on innocent civilians”. He also held India responsible for the present situation in Kashmir.
2:58 PM, 04 AUG
Addl Secy (J&K Division) Meets Shah
Additional Secretary (J&K Division) Gyanesh Kumar has arrived at the Parliament to meet Union Home Minister Amit Shah, reported news agency ANI.
2:54 PM, 04 AUG
Pak PM Calls for National Security Council Meet: Report
Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has reportedly summoned a meeting of the country’s National Security Council (NSC).
2:45 PM, 04 AUG
Pak Army Denies Indian Claim of Cross-LOC Incursion
The Pakistan Army has denied the Indian claim about action by Pakistani army regulars and militants across the Line of Control and that their bodies were lying on the Indian side, reported news agency PTI.
The Indian Army Saturday said that it has foiled an attack by Pakistan's Border Action Team (BAT) on a forward post along the Line of Control (LoC) in Keran sector of Jammu and Kashmir, killing five to seven intruders.
Pakistan Army spokesman Maj Gen Asif Ghafoor on Saturday night denied the Indian claim as "mere propaganda" and said that India was "trying to divert attention of the world form the situation of Kashmir." Similarly, the Foreign Office also issued a statement at about mid-night to reject the claims by India.
2:37 PM, 04 AUG
Amid Tensions, J&K Political Parties to Meet at 6 pm Today
Amidst continuing tensions in Jammu and Kashmir, PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti has said that the political parties of the state will be holding a meeting at 6 pm on Sunday, 4 August at her house, after they could not hold a meeting at a hotel due to a police advisory.
“We had made an effort to tell the people of this country and the government that what could be the consequence if they toy with (articles) 35A and 370. We made an appeal too, but no assurance has been given yet from the Centre. They are not bothered to say that everything will be alright.”
Mufti further accused the Centre of “using tactics against mainstream political parties.”
“They’re using corruption as a tool against political parties, workers (are) being harassed,” she said.
1:17 PM, 04 AUG
More Troops in Kashmir
Rapid Action Force (RAF) has been deployed in the Poonch sector.
12:51 PM, 04 AUG
Amit Shah Meets NSA Ajit Doval
A meeting is underway between Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, at the Parliament.
9:34 AM, 04 AUG
Have Offered Pakistan to Take Bodies of Intruders: Indian Army
The Indian Army on Sunday said that it has offered its Pakistani counterpart to take the dead bodies of the intruders, a day after it foiled an attack by the neighbouring country’s BAT on a forward post along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir’s Keran sector.
“Pakistan Army has been offered to approach with white flag and take over the dead bodies for last rites, they are yet to respond,” the Indian Army said.
9:22 AM, 04 AUG
Air India Fare Capped at Rs 9,500 for All Flights to and From Srinagar
Air India spokesperson Dhanajay Kumar told ANI on Sunday that the airline has decided to cap the fare at Rs 9,500 for all their flights to and from Srinagar till 15 August.
9:20 AM, 04 AUG
Pak Rejects India’s Claims of Infiltration in J&K as ‘Propaganda’
Pakistan rejected India’s claims of infiltration in J&K as “propaganda” late on Saturday.
Major General Asif Ghafoor, spokesperson for the Pakistan Armed Forces, tweeted saying, “Indian allegations of cross LOC action by Pakistan and possession of bodies are mere propaganda. Such blatant lies/staged dramas are Indian disinformation manoeuvre to divert world attention from increased atrocities by Indian Occupation Forces inside IOJ&K.”
8:02 AM, 04 AUG
Home Minister Amit Shah Might Visit Jammu and Kashmir: Report
Amid tension in Jammu and Kashmir after the state government’s advisory to tourists and Amarnath yatris, Home Minister Amit Shah might be visiting the state, sources cited by NDTV said. An itinerary is being prepared and he is likely to first visit Jammu, followed by the Kashmir Valley, the sources added.
10:30 PM, 03 AUG
PDP Urges Modi to Ensure No Unilateral Decision Is Taken on Kashmir
The PDP on Saturday appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure that no unilateral decision is taken at any level that impinges upon the current constitutional arrangement and complexion of Jammu and Kashmir with the union of India.
In a meeting presided over by party president and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti here, top PDP leaders urged Modi to give due consideration to the fact that people of the state have always reposed faith in the constitutional and democratic ethos of the country.
They said any unilateral decision to alter the constitutional framework governing the state would be a travesty.
"The party leadership hoped that the present dispensation headed by PM Modi will respect the sentiments of the people and their views on the current situation, which is perceived as grave enough to cause avoidable commotion," a spokesman of the PDP said.
10:18 PM, 03 AUG
Army Foils Pak Infiltration Bid in J&K’s Keran, At Least 5 Intruders Killed
The Indian Army on Saturday, 3 August said that in the last 36 hours, it had foiled an attack by Pakistan's Border Action Team (BAT) on a forward post along the Line of Control (LoC), in Jammu and Kashmir’s Keran sector. In the process, it killed at least five to seven intruders, a defence spokesman in Srinagar said, as per PTI.
The BAT generally comprises special forces personnel of the Pakistani Army.
10:17 PM, 03 AUG
J&K Police Dismiss Rumours About Department
A senior police officer dismissed on Saturday the rumours that Jammu and Kashmir Police personnel were being asked to deposit their weapons, and asserted that strict action would be taken against people behind them.
"The tweet...in which it has been mentioned that J&K policemen are being asked to deposit their weapons and CRPF and Army were taking control of police stations, is a criminal rumour," Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Muneer Khan said.
"Strict action will be taken against these criminal elements who have spread these malicious rumours with intent to vitiate the atmosphere. We are trying to find out who has initiated this malicious rumour," Khan said in a statement.
10:16 PM, 03 AUG
Railways Waive Cancellation Fee for Next 48 Hours for Passengers Travelling From J&K
Railways have waived cancellation charges for next 48 hours for passengers travelling from Jammu and Kashmir, sources told PTI.
9:01 PM, 03 AUG
Tourists, Pilgrims Leave Valley in Wake of J&K Advisory
Tourists and Amarnath Yatra pilgrims started to leave the Kashmir Valley on Saturday in the wake of the advisory asking them to cut short their stay citing security threats.
An official at Srinagar Airport said Indian Air Force (IAF) flights have been pressed into service "as per requirement".
Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department sent buses on Friday, immediately after the advisory was issued, to different tourist destinations to bring the tourists back to Srinagar, director, Tourism Kashmir, Nissar Wani, said here.
He said about 20,000-22,000 tourists were in Kashmir on Friday.
"While most of them have reached Srinagar or have left the Valley, some of them are still staying. Few tourists had gone trekking in Pahalgam area and have not yet returned to their bases. Once they return, we will tell them to leave," Wani told PTI on Saturday.
"We sent buses to Gulmarg, Pahalgam and other spots to bring the tourists to Srinagar and facilitate them in leaving the Valley. This went on till late into the night and I was myself monitoring the situation," he said.
8:51 PM, 03 AUG
6126 Passengers Left Valley on Saturday: Airports Authority of India
Airports Authority of India said in a statement that 6,126 passengers were reported at Srinagar Airport on Saturday for travelling out of Valley. Out of this, 5,829 passengers travelled by 32 scheduled flights, while remaining 387 passengers were accommodated in four IAF aircrafts and flown to destinations like Jammu, Pathankot and Hindon.
8:15 PM, 03 AUG
Aviation Ministry Advises Airlines to Keep Fares From Srinagar in Check
The Civil Aviation Ministry on Saturday advised airlines to keep fares from Srinagar in check as Amarnath pilgrims and tourists rushed to the airport after the Jammu and Kashmir administration asked them to curtail their stay in the state.
"The Ministry of Civil Aviation has advised the airlines to rein in the surging ticket prices - on flights coming out of Srinagar - for yatris returning from the Amarnath dham," a source told PTI.
8:13 PM, 03 AUG
Congress Leader Digvijaya Singh Warns Centre on 'Forceful Move' in Kashmir
Senior Congress leader Digvijaya Singh said on Saturday that the BJP should tread carefully in the restive Jammu and Kashmir.
"Have the heavens fallen that you (Centre) have called off the Amarnath yatra? A force of 20,000 (troopers) has been sent there (J-K). It is an indication of a big exercise," he told reporters.
"But the BJP (government) should keep in mind the Valley's sensitivity and work thoughtfully. If they move ahead forcefully, there is a possibility that the country could suffer massively," Singh claimed.
The senior Congress leader went on to add that the security advisory to Amarnath yatris and tourists inconvenienced lakhs of pilgrims.
"I don't have faith in this government (Centre). I have not seen a bigger liar than this government. We are seeing acts committed by terrorists daily," he alleged.
7:50 PM, 03 AUG
'Do Justice to Ordinary Flyers': Omar Abdullah
After the Indian Air Force said it will airlift Amarnath pilgrims out of Kashmir Valley, NC leader Omar Abdullah sought “justice to ordinary flyers”, saying “ Yatris will get special flights & controlled fares but what will happen to patients, students & other people who have to travel.”
Air fares to and from Srinagar have increased 20-25 percent following the state government's security advisory on Friday, 2 August, to tourists and pilgrims visiting the state.
7:22 PM, 03 AUG
JKPCC Seeks Clarification From Centre to End 'Uncertainty' in Valley
The Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) on Saturday expressed concern over the situation in the state and sought clarification from the Centre to end the “uncertainty" in the valley,” according to PTI.
“We are concerned about the situation. No one knows what is happening. There is uncertainty. We are seeing this type of situation for the first time and it has raised questions. We want the Centre as well as the state government to clarify what is going on,” JKPCC President GA Mir said.
6:08 PM, 03 AUG
'Situation Is Normal in Jammu and Kashmir': Governor SP Malik
Apprising the situation in Jammu & Kashmir, Governor Satya Pal Malik said that the situation is “normal” and that “rumour mongering: is going on, according to ANI.
“Unnecessary panic is being created by vested interests, specially some political parties,” Malik said.
5:57 PM, 03 AUG
NC, PDP, Cong Deliberately Trying to Create Fear Among People of J&K: BJP
The BJP's Jammu and Kashmir unit on Saturday accused leaders of the NC, PDP and the Congress of deliberately trying to trigger panic among the people in the state, according to PTI.
The party's state unit president, Ravinder Raina, said every common citizen of the country is safe under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
5:24 PM, 03 AUG
UK, Germany Issue Advisory for Its Citizens Against Travel to J&K: Reports
According to reports, after UK, Germany has issued a travel advisory to its nationals from visiting the Valley.
Responding to the development, National Conference leader Omr Abdullah said, “The same Germany that was so satisfied with the improvement in the security environment that they organised the Zubin Mehta concert in Srinagar a few years ago now issues a travel advisory to stop nationals from visiting the valley.”
4:56 PM, 03 AUG
'Govt Clearly Preparing for Some Misadventure': P Chidambaram
Congress leader P Chidambaram who addressed the media along with Ghulam Nabi Azad, said that each issue of Jammu and Kashmir is “fraught with serious legal and political consequences,” adding that the government should be careful in making provisions with its “manoeuvres.”
Further, Chidambaram said the government is “clearly preparing for some misadventure.”
4:43 PM, 03 AUG
'Major Setback to Tourism Industry in J&K': Omar Abdullah
Responding to reports on the UK government’s advisory for its nationalists against all travel to J&K, National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said, “The last few days have been a major setback for the tourism industry in the state.”
4:20 PM, 03 AUG
'No Other Govt Has Given Advisory to Suspend Yatra': Ghulam Nabi Azad
Addressing the media, Senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said that the central government’s advisory on suspension of the Amarnath Yatra is worrisome and that it has instilled fear among people in the Valley.
“During the BJP-backed government in 1989, Kashmiri Pandits were expelled from everywhere, which till today is a stigma. Today, 30 years later, the same situation is before us. This is not good for Jammu and Kashmir,” Azad said.
Azad also said that no other government has given such a directive.
4:07 PM, 03 AUG
VHP Cancels Upcoming Budha Amarnath Pilgrimage in J&K
The Vishwa Hindu Parishad on Saturday announced cancellation of the upcoming annual Budha Amarnath yatra, citing threat posed by Pakistan-sponsored terrorists to the pilgrimage.
The 10-day yatra in Poonch district of Jammu region, organised by the VHP, was scheduled to begin on 6 August.
"In view of the emerging security situation following the recovery of US made sniper rifle and landmine along the Amarnath yatra track in Kashmir, we have decided to cancel the yatra to Budha Amarnath for the safety of the pilgrims," State VHP president Leela Karan Sharma told reporters in jammu.
2:29 PM, 03 AUG
BJP to Hoist Flag in J&K on 15 August: J&K BJP President
Jammu and Kashmir BJP President Ravinder Rana has said the the party will hoist the national flag in the state on 15 August.
1:01 PM, 03 AUG
'Centre Must Clarify Suspension of Amarnath Yatra': Omar Abdullah
National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said Governor Satya Pal Malik apprised the delegation of leaders about the situation in Jammu and Kashmir.
Abdullah said that the Governor assured the delegation that there was no preparation for any announcement on Article 35A, 370, delimitation or trifurcation in the Valley, adding that the security situation had developed in a manner which required “immediate action.”
However, Abdullah said that “Governor isn't the final word on J&K” and that the “final word on J&K is the Government of India.”
12:31 PM, 03 AUG
'Yet Again the Valley Is on Edge': Mehbooba Mufti
Peoples Democratic Party President Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday, 3 August, lashed out at the Central government’s ineptitude in clarifying recent developments.
Further, Mufti said, “I’ll be in Budgam today to meet party workers and create awareness about J&K’s special Constitutional provisions.”
12:04 PM, 03 AUG
Omar Abdullah Reaches Raj Bhawan to Meet Governor
Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah arrives at Raj Bhawan in Srinagar to meet Governor Satya Pal Malik.
Meanwhile, Jammu & Kashmir Rapid Action Force (RAF) has reached Jammu.
10:03 AM, 03 AUG
Machail Yatra to Goddess Durga Shrine Suspended
Machail Yatra to Goddess Durga’s shrine in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir has been suspended, reported ANI, quoting District Commissioner Angrez Singh Rana.
“The yatra has been suspended with immediate effect due to security reasons,” Rana told PTI.
The yatra commenced on 25 July and was scheduled to end on 5 September.
Thousands of devotees from across the country visit the scenic Paddar valley, also famous for its sapphire mines, during the yatra and pay obeisance at the holy shrine of goddess Durga in Machail village of Kishtwar after trekking a 30-km arduous route.
8:46 AM, 03 AUG
'No Plans to Abrogate Article 35A of Constitution': J&K Governor
Governor Satya Pal Malik, late on Friday night, met with a delegation of political leaders and reiterated that “there are no plans to abrogate Article 35A of Constitution”, which gives special powers to Jammu and Kashmir.
3:57 AM, 03 AUGKEY EVENT
'Why is Gulmarg Being Emptied,' Asks Omar Abdullah
Former J&K Chief Minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said he failed to understand why the government had so long been briefing everyone about “how good the situation is”.
In a series of tweets, Abdullah questioned the government and its actions, saying that such a situation, where the Amarnath Yatra needed to be cancelled, had never arisen.
He also questioned why Gulmarg was being emptied if there was a threat to the yatra.
3:57 AM, 03 AUGKEY EVENT
IndiGo, Vistara & Air India Offer Fee Waiver on Rescheduling/Cancellation of Flights
IndiGo on Friday evening said on Twitter, “In view of the current security situation in Srinagar and the Government advisory regarding it, we are providing a full fee waiver on rescheduling/cancellation for all flights to/from Srinagar till Aug 09, 2019.”
Vistara also said it will be waiving change and cancellation fees for flights to/from Jammu and Kashmir for the next seven days.
“Due to prevailing security situation in Kashmir, we are waiving change and cancellation fees for flights to/from Jammu and Kashmir for next seven days (till August 9, 2019). Only fare difference, if any, will be applicable for date changes,” Vistara tweeted.
Air India, on Friday, said on Twitter that in view of the prevailing situation in Jammu and Kashmir, it will give a full fee waiver on rescheduling or cancellation for all flights to or from Srinagar till 15 August.
3:57 AM, 03 AUG
DGCA Advises Airlines to Be Ready to Operate Extra Flights from Srinagar
With situation appearing turbulent in Kashmir, aviation regulator DGCA advised airlines on Friday to remain ready to operate additional flights from the Srinagar airport if the need arises.
“DGCA has advised airlines to remain ready. If there is a need, airlines should be ready to run extra flights,” a source privy to the development told news agency PTI.
“Around 8:45 pm, the situation at the Srinagar airport was checked by the DGCA and it was found to be normal. It was found that there is no need to run extra flights right now. But if the need arises later on, the airlines have been advised to remain ready to run extra flights,” the source reportedly said.
3:57 AM, 03 AUG
Congress Urges Govt Not to Precipitate Crisis in J&K
The Congress on Friday urged the government not to take any decision that would precipitate a crisis in Jammu and Kashmir and asked it to ensure the constitutional guarantees given to the state are maintained.
The appeal to the government came after a Congress policy planning group on Jammu and Kashmir met under the chairmanship of former prime minister Manmohan Singh, according to PTI.
"There was deep concern expressed at the continuous reports emanating from both the Union Home Ministry and the State Government which were creating an atmosphere of panic and apprehension about the intentions of the government," an official statement said.
3:57 AM, 03 AUGKEY EVENT
Panic Grips Kashmir After J&K Govt Asks Yatris to Leave Valley
A fresh order by the J&K administration on Friday asking tourists and Amarnath yatris to leave the Valley triggered panic among the residents as they started stocking up dry ration and essentials, fearing long law and order disturbance.
Apprehending deterioration in the law and order situation, people were seen lining up at departmental stores in the Srinagar city and elsewhere to stock up dry ration and essentials, news agency PTI reported.
Petrol Pumps Also Witnessed A Huge Rush Of Customers.
3:57 AM, 03 AUGKEY EVENT
‘Terrorists Planning to Target Amarnath Yatra’: J&K Govt Tells Pilgrims, Tourists to Leave Valley
Pakistan-based terrorists are planning to target the ongoing Amarnath Yatra, the army said on Friday, 2 August, citing intelligence inputs, prompting the Jammu and Kashmir administration to ask the yatris and tourists to "curtail" their stay in the Valley and leave immediately.
Stating that weapons and explosives have been recovered along the yatra route, a top army official said security forces are geared up to foil any attempt to attack the pilgrimage, news agency PTI reported.
"Last three to four days, we were getting specific and confirmed intelligence inputs that terrorists led by Pakistan and Pakistan Army are trying to target the Shri Amarnathji yatra which is going on," General Officer Commanding (GoC) of Army's 15 Corps Lt General KJS Dhillon told a joint press conference with state police chief Dilbagh Singh in Srinagar.
Following the joint briefing, Governor's administration issued a security advisory, saying pilgrims and tourists "may curtail their stay" and "return as soon as possible".
Categories : 
9:31 AM
Moderate Islamist here
