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Pahalgam Attack: India Says Lashkar Militants From Pakistan Behind Kashmir Killings

June 24, 2025, 3:45 pm

Pahalgam attack suspects have now all been confirmed as Pakistani nationals, Indian investigators revealed, as the probe into April’s deadly assault in Kashmir continues. India’s National Investigative Agency (NIA) announced that all three attackers belonged to Lashkar-e-Taiba, a group banned by the UN.

Earlier, police believed two were Pakistani and one local. After arresting two locals who allegedly sheltered the militants, the NIA said all attackers were from Pakistan.

“The arrested men knowingly harboured the three armed terrorists at a seasonal dhol (hut) before the attack,” NIA stated. Officials did not share when the arrests took place, and the suspects have not made public statements yet. Pakistan has not responded to these new claims, but earlier denied any role in the attack.

The Resistance Front (TRF), linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, first claimed responsibility but later withdrew the claim. The 22 April incident increased tensions between the two nuclear-armed countries by killing 26 tourists in Baisaran, a well-known location in Kashmir. Despite controlling separate areas of the territory, both India and Pakistan claim Kashmir.

India-Pakistan Tensions Rise Ahead of Pahalgam Attack

India revoked the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty with Pakistan shortly after the attack. Pakistan responded by withdrawing from the 1972 Simla Agreement, which sought to settle conflicts amicably. India then launched air and missile attacks on what it described as “terror infrastructure” within Pakistan and Pakistan-controlled Kashmir on May 7.

The US President Donald Trump had declared a truce to halt the escalating hostilities on May 10. Although Pakistan has denied that India hit any terror camps, and replied with its missile strikes and drone missions into Indian territory.

Following the Pahalgam attack, the Indian security forces launched a large search across Kashmir, questioning thousands. Despite the extensive operation, the three attackers remain on the run, which keeps the tensions at an all-time high between the two countries.

Amarnath Yatra Declared No-Fly Zone After Terror Attack Shakes Pahalgam

June 17, 2025, 5:01 pm

A new directive has declared the Amarnath Yatra 2025 routes as a ‘No Flying Zone’, strengthening security after the recent Pahalgam terror attack. The Jammu and Kashmir government announced that starting July 1 until August 10, all aerial platforms, including drones and balloons, are strictly banned along the pilgrimage routes.

This decision follows the April 22 attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, prompting heightened measures to protect pilgrims.

To ensure pilgrim safety, the J&K Government declares #Pahalgam and #Baltal routes of the Amarnath Yatra as “No Flying Zones” from July 1, 2025. Drones, paragliders, and aerial activities are banned, except for security and emergency services. Strict compliance is urged.@diprjk… pic.twitter.com/1EuJ4Cb1pK

— DD NEWS JAMMU | डीडी न्यूज़ जम्मू (@ddnews_jammu) June 17, 2025

Amarnath Yatra Flight Ban

The Jammu and Kashmir Home Department, following orders from Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, imposed this comprehensive and immediate ban. It blocks all aviation platforms and devices, including drones, UAVs, and balloons, along both Pahalgam and Baltal axes. However, the government allowed specific exceptions for medical evacuations, disaster management, essential relief efforts, and security force surveillance.

Authorities will soon issue a detailed standard operating procedure (SOP) outlining these exceptions. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs advised full aerial restrictions to maintain strict vigilance during the sensitive and high-risk pilgrimage.

All stakeholders thoroughly assessed the security situation and unanimously agreed to add additional logistical support and enforce stronger measures for this year’s yatra.

Pilgrimage Under Heavy Security

The annual Amarnath Yatra will start on July 3, attracting thousands of pilgrims from across the country. Authorities have stepped up security following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, ensuring no disruptions occur during the pilgrimage. Security personnel have already strengthened patrols and installed advanced surveillance systems across the designated routes.

Federal and state agencies now actively coordinate their efforts to maintain strict safety protocols. Officials have enforced a ban on drones and balloons to prevent aerial threats and eliminate any risks of unauthorised surveillance or attacks. The administration has left no stone unturned, implementing robust security layers, deploying additional forces, and closely monitoring intelligence inputs to avoid any untoward incidents.

Officials have also improved logistical support, ensuring that all the emergency services remain ready throughout the pilgrimage. The government aims to guarantee that the yatra proceeds peacefully, reflecting its strong commitment to every pilgrim’s safety and well-being.

Pahalgam Attack Scares Tourists Away, Leh Feels Like Off-Season

June 14, 2025, 6:06 pm

In what should be one of the busiest times of the year, Leh in Ladakh appears nearly deserted, leaving locals and regular visitors stunned. The recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, seems to have had a ripple effect across the tourism sector, leading to vacant hotels and cancelled bookings, not just in Kashmir, but also in nearby Leh.

This has caused a huge revenue decline for the tourism industry there, and all the people whose income depended on it are struggling.

Tourism Crash in Leh After Pahalgam Attack

Rattan Dhillon, a frequent visitor to the region, shared a video online showing Leh’s streets — usually teeming with tourists in June — looking strangely empty. Sharing the clip on X (formerly Twitter), he wrote:

“Hard to believe this is Ladakh in June right in the middle of peak season. I’ve been visiting Leh for the past 10 years and have never seen the town this quiet and deserted, with so few tourists around. Looks like the Pahalgam incident has had a huge impact! Hoping things bounce back here soon!”

Posted on June 11, the video quickly went viral, gaining over 37,000 views, hundreds of likes, and a flood of comments expressing concern for Leh’s tourism-dependent economy.

Social Media Reactions

One user commented, “Sad to see this… this town lives on income from tourists.” Another added, “Totally unexpected for peak season! Hoping things bounce back soon… Leh’s magic deserves to be alive again!”

Many others shared similar observations. A commenter noted, “I had visited in May right after the incident. Hardly any tourists around. Local tourism is badly affected by this.”

Some pointed to additional problems that may have worsened the decline:

“It’s been on the decline. According to me, multiple factors—super expensive taxis and flights, distance, bad roads, altitude, and health issues, coupled with bad health care support. But people like me have explored every corner of this beautiful landscape.”

The Pahalgam attack led to widespread fear and cancellations, even from those who had already arrived. Tourist footfall in Kashmir has plummeted, and since many visitors also head to Leh and other scenic spots nearby, the impact has been deeply felt.

This is a sharp contrast to the norm—lakhs of tourists typically visit daily in summer, often exploring valleys on horseback. Now, Leh’s tourism sector reels from the impact, as locals and businesses hope safety and tourist confidence will return soon.

TMC opposes Op Sindoor narrative on the ground

June 8, 2025, 1:54 am

TMC counters BJP’s Operation Sindoor narrative amid 2026 election tensions.

Kolkata: The ruling Trinamool Congress in West Bengal, led by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, has launched a strategic campaign to counter the political advantage gained by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) through Operation Sindoor, a military strike conducted on May 7, 2025, targeting terror bases in Pakistan.

With the 2026 West Bengal Assembly elections looming, the TMC is working to reclaim the narrative, accusing the BJP of politicising the operation for electoral gains while highlighting the Central Government’s security failures.

Operation Sindoor, the retaliatory strike following the April 22 Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians, destroyed nine terrorist bases and eliminated more than 100 terrorists.

The BJP has leveraged the operation to fuel nationalistic fervour, organising Tiranga Yatras in Kolkata and other towns and cities in the state.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah have spearheaded the BJP’s campaign, with Shah accusing Banerjee of opposing the operation to “appease the Muslim vote bank” during a rally in Kolkata on June 1, 2025, while linking her to the recent Murshidabad riots.

The TMC’s counter-campaign focuses on three fronts.

First, the party has reaffirmed its support for national security, while carefully avoiding giving any credit to the BJP-led Central Government. TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee joined a multi-party delegation to brief nations like Indonesia on India’s anti-terror stance.

A five-member TMC team, including Derek O’Brien, also visited Srinagar and Poonch to support families affected by cross-border shelling.

Mamata has repeatedly stated her support for the armed forces, emphasising the TMC’s alignment with national interest.

Second, the TMC has accused the BJP of exploiting Operation Sindoor for votes.

On May 31, TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh called the BJP’s strategy an “insult to Bengal,” while Mamata criticised Modi for trivialising the sacred symbol of sindoor.

On June 6, TMC MLA Narendranath Chakraborty stirred controversy by labelling the operation a “staged drama,” though he later claimed his remarks were misinterpreted.

In a video clip that went viral on social media on Friday, Chakraborty is seen telling an audience, “The way they (the Bharatiya Janata Party) have started this Sindoor Khela (game of vermilion), it seems that the entire episode is a staged drama. This warmongering by the BJP is nothing but a game. In Operation Sindoor, PM Modi has played with the emotions of patriotic people, including women.”

He alleged, “A group of miscreants came three days after all the protection was withdrawn in Pahalgam. They singled out and shot dead 27 people after asking them if they were Hindus, wore sindoor, and could recite Kalma. You are aware of this story.”

Chakraborty also claimed, “Now they have come out to play with sindoor, which runs in the blood of Bengalis. If they play with sindoor, they need to be taught a proper lesson. They have to be thrown into the dustbin for playing with the sindoor of mothers.”

He argued, “The perpetrators are yet to be found. The fact is they are never found because this is a game plan to play ‘Hindu, Hindu’ and polarise the Hindu vote bank. It is a script to spark a communal tussle between Hindus and Muslims to stay in power and continue to rule the country.”

Third, the TMC has highlighted the Central Government’s failures, with leaders like Chandrima Bhattacharya demanding Shah’s resignation for failing to prevent the Pahalgam attack.

However, the TMC’s campaign has faced challenges. The BJP has seized on controversial statements, with leaders like Suvendu Adhikari demanding NIA probes into the Trinamool Congress’s “anti-national” remarks.

Slamming Chakraborty, the BJP’s Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari pointed out on his X handle that Chakraborty “has prior knowledge or insights into such a heinous act; it is imperative that the NIA take him into custody for questioning to uncover the source and credibility of his information.”

He added, “I urge the NIA to act swiftly and summon Narendranath Chakraborty to ascertain the facts. The people of India have the right to know the truth behind his statements and whether they point to any larger network.”

Separately, a leader of the BJP’s minority cell filed an FIR against the Trinamool MLA.

In the FIR, the complainant called for action against Chakraborty, alleging he had made an “anti-national statement belittling the valour and sacrifice of armed forces and encouraging Pakistan-sponsored terrorists to destabilise India.”

Public sentiment, as reflected on social media platforms, remains divided, with some praising the TMC’s stance and others criticising it for undermining national security.

JD(U) MP Sanjay Jha Urges Singapore to Back Pakistan’s Blocklisting by FATF

May 27, 2025, 1:08 pm

During a diplomatic visit to Singapore, Janata Dal (United) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha asked the country to support India’s demand to place Pakistan on the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) blocklisting. Jha made this request after meeting with Singapore’s Senior Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Home Affairs, Sim Ann.

Concerns Over Misuse of Financial Aid by Pakistan

According to Jha, the Indian delegation raised concerns that Pakistan is using international financial assistance for the wrong purposes. Instead of using funds for development, he claimed that Pakistan is spending heavily on its defence sector and on promoting terrorism.

While speaking to ANI, Jha explained, “We met the State Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the one important thing is the Financial Assistant Task Force, which has a grey and black list. Earlier, Pakistan was in the grey list. Singapore is a member of FATF. We requested that Pakistan be brought on the black list because whatever financial support it gets, its expenditure is on its defence or terrorism. There is no expense in development work.”

Singapore’s Role in FATF

Singapore has been an active member of FATF since 1992. Over the years, especially since its 2016 evaluation, the country has worked on improving its systems to prevent money laundering and terrorist financing. India hopes that as a committed FATF member, Singapore will take a strong stance on Pakistan’s financial practices.

Support Against Terrorism Praised

Jha also appreciated Singapore’s support in the aftermath of a terrorist attack in Pahalgam. He recalled that Singapore’s Prime Minister had immediately spoken with India’s Prime Minister and expressed full support against terrorism.

He stated, “We also asked for Singapore’s support for what happened earlier in Pahalgam. Their Prime Minister spoke to our Prime Minister immediately after the incident and said that there is all-out support against terrorism.”

India’s Military Response After Pahalgam Attack

Jha described how India responded decisively after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which left 26 people dead. He said the Indian Air Force carried out targeted airstrikes in Pakistan, destroying nine terrorist hideouts without causing harm to civilians or military bases.

“After two weeks (of the Pahalgam terrorist attack), the Indian Air Force attacked nine terrorist infrastructure sites in Pakistan. The attack was carried out with precision. We demolished all nine terrorist hubs. We did not attack any civilian or military base. They also launched attacks on India. We defended and later we attacked their air base, then the Director General of Military Operations (DGMO) of Pakistan approached for the ceasefire. The entire country is one when it comes to India’s safety, security. We are going to five countries. This is our third country. We have to fight against terrorism together,” he said.

Broad-Based Diplomatic Outreach by Indian Delegation

The multi-party Indian delegation also met with current and former Members of Parliament in Singapore, as well as senior representatives from academic institutions, businesses, and cultural organizations. The delegation also had a formal meeting with India’s High Commissioner to Singapore, Ambassador Shilpak Ambule.

Delegation Composition and Purpose

The delegation, led by JD(U)’s Sanjay Kumar Jha, includes several MPs and leaders from different parties such as BJP’s Aparajita Sarangi, Brij Lala, Pradan Baruah, Hemang Joshi; TMC’s Abhishek Banerjee; CPI-M’s John Brittas; and senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid and Mohan Kumar.

This visit is part of a larger diplomatic campaign launched by the Indian government after Operation Sindoor. The Modi government has sent out seven multi-party delegations to different countries to expose Pakistan’s links to terrorism and to reinforce India’s strong stand of zero tolerance toward terrorist acts.

Background: Operation Sindoor

India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 in response to the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22. That attack was carried out by Pakistan-sponsored terrorists and resulted in the death of 26 civilians. In retaliation, India’s armed forces destroyed terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir. The operation led to the killing of over 100 terrorists linked to groups such as Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen.

‘God Give Them Sadbuddhi’: BJP MP Faces Backlash, Issues Clarification on Pahalgam Comment

May 26, 2025, 2:15 am

Following sustained criticism from the opposition parties for his ‘women in Pahalgam should have resisted’ comment, Haryana BJP MP Ram Chander Jhangra on Sunday alleged that his comment on the Pahalgam terror attack had been “twisted” and misinterpreted politically.

Apology Issued, Intent Clarified by BJP MP

In a video message, Jangra apologized if his words offended someone and maintained that he never intended to offend the women whose husbands were killed in the April 22 attack.

“I do not treat women of my country weakly in any manner. We stand with the women who lost their husbands in the Pahalgam attack, we stand with those families. Still, if I have hurt anyone’s feelings, I have no hesitation in apologising,” he said in the video.

The furore arose after Jangra, addressing a function on the 300th birth anniversary of Maratha king Ahilyabai Holkar, remarked that the women who had lost their husbands at Pahalgam should have been like ‘veerangnas’ and the victims themselves should have retaliated against the terrorists.

Clarification and Reframing of BJP MP

In his clarification, Jangra tried to reframe his remarks and said, “I do not treat women of my country weak in any manner. I believe they are brave, and we only need to ignite the spirit of Ahliyabai and Jhansi ki Rani so that if such circumstances arise, like in Pahalgam, they can fight with the spirit of bravery.”

“I respect ‘veerangnas’ of my country, I salute them,” he added.

Defence of Armed Forces and Further Justification

“Our armed forces avenged the Pahalgam attack and taught Pakistan a lesson that it could not imagine. We can never call our sisters weak, and I believe we only need to ignite the spirit of Jhansi ki Rani and Ahilyabai in them.

“In this context, I had made my remarks, but these are being twisted. Those who are making it a political issue, God give them ‘sadbuddhi’ (better sense). It only harms the country and society,” he added.

Political Reactions and Party Response

But the harm was already done, and the remarks triggered a political backlash, with the Congress, TMC and SP branding the BJP as insensitive and “anti-women”.

The BJP leader and Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar called Jangra’s comments on Pahalgam visitors “wrong” and asserted the issue should be left now as he has regretted if any hurt was caused.

Indian Lawmakers Travel Abroad to Counter Pakistan’s Lies About Operation Sindoor

May 25, 2025, 1:50 pm

Indian lawmakers have launched a global effort to fight misinformation about Operation Sindoor. The mission began after a terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which killed 26 tourists and shocked the nation. In response, the Indian government sent an all-party delegation abroad to share the truth and stop Pakistan’s false claims.

Indian MPs Visit 9/11 Memorial in New York

On Saturday, a team of Indian MPs led by Shashi Tharoor visited the 9/11 Memorial in New York. The group included Ganti Harish Madhur, Shashank Mani Tripathi, Bhubaneswar Kalita, Milind Deora, and Taranjit Singh Sandhu, a former diplomat. India’s Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, also joined them. The memorial honors 2,977 victims of the 2001 attacks and six others killed in the 1993 bombing at the World Trade Center.

Tharoor Highlights Global Unity Against Terror

After paying tribute, Shashi Tharoor explained the purpose of their visit. “It was obviously a very moving moment for us, but it was also meant to send a very strong message that we are here in a city which is bearing still the scars of that dreadful terrorist attack in the wake of yet another terrorist attack in our own country,” he said.

He called terrorism a shared global challenge. “We came both as a reminder that this is a shared problem, but also out of a spirit of solidarity with the victims, who included Indians…it is a global problem…we must fight it unitedly,” Tharoor added.

Dubey Criticizes IMF for Supporting Pakistan

Meanwhile, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey slammed the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for funding Pakistan. He raised concerns about how the funds are being used. “Since the last 2-3 days, the IMF is insisting that Pakistan not divert money for anything else and use it for the cause only. We feel the IMF will do something else. It is our presumption. Our request to you is that we are here because we are facing a great problem with Pakistan…we need your support,” Dubey said.

Panda: India Won’t Fall for Nuclear Blackmail

While speaking in Bahrain, BJP leader Baijayant Panda made India’s stance firm. He said the country will not be intimidated by Pakistan’s nuclear threats. “Our new doctrine is, we have called their (Pakistan) nuclear bluff, we will no longer be blackmailed by their nuclear bluff….we can and will retaliate, things will never go anywhere close to being nuclear because our intention is not hostility, our intention is to extract the cost to deter them,” Panda said.

Owaisi Condemns Terror in the Name of Islam

AIMIM MP Asaduddin Owaisi, also part of the delegation, strongly opposed the use of religion to justify terrorism. “These terrorist organisations have justified killings of innocent people in India, and they have out of context quoted Quranic verses…we have to put an end to it. They have used religion to justify the killing of people. Islam condemns terrorism and the Quran has categorically stated that the killing of one innocent person is like the killing of the whole of humankind,” Owaisi stated.

India Sends Strong Global Message

To lead this effort, India has formed seven international teams, each led by an MP. Their job is clear: present India’s facts, defend its anti-terrorism policy, and challenge Pakistan’s propaganda abroad. These lawmakers are meeting foreign leaders and public forums to expose lies and explain the truth about Operation Sindoor.

“Operation Sindoor Continues — We Will Strike Terrorists in Pakistan,” Says Jaishankar

May 22, 2025, 11:56 am

India’s external affairs minister, S. Jaishankar, has assured that Operation Sindoor is in full swing as an assertive warning to terrorists based in Pakistan. The operation, initiated on May 7 against the brutal April 22 terror strike at Pahalgam that murdered 26 civilians, focuses on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistani-occupied regions. Jaishankar emphasized that India will act firmly if another similar attack occurs again, reaffirming India’s new offensive strategy towards cross-border terrorism.

In an interview with Dutch broadcaster NOS, Jaishankar reiterates that the May 10 agreement to suspend military operations was a bilaterally agreed-upon understanding after Indian strikes made the Pakistani military settle for a ceasefire. Interestingly, he ruled out any role played by the United States in facilitating this understanding or in future negotiations with Pakistan, making India’s position clear on direct bilateral talks.

Operation Sindoor: A Message Beyond Ceasefire

India’s precision strikes as part of Operation Sindoor targeted nine terror locations selected by the United Nations. The strikes were directed at destroying terror infrastructure that conducted the Pahalgam massacre on behalf of Pakistan-based LeT proxy, The Resistance Front. Jaishankar emphasized, “The operation continues because there is a clear message in that operation – that if there are acts of the kind we saw on April 22, there will be a response, that we will hit the terrorists.”

If the terrorists are in Pakistan, we will hit them where they are. So, there is a message in continuing the operation but continuing the operation is not the same as firing on each other. Right now, there is an agreed cessation of fighting and military action,” he added.

While the operation continues, Jaishankar explained that to continue the operation does not necessarily imply continuous firing from the army. Rather, there is an abiding agreement of cessation from active combat. In response to whether the operation was in cold storage, he replied, “Put whatever word you want to, but I can tell you the message is clear and the message is act.”

Strong action by the Indian government was required following the savage terror attack that introduced elements of religion deliberately to cause unrest. Jaishankar commented, “The combat was initiated by a very savage terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 were killed before their families, after ascertaining their religion.” He continued, “Deliberately, there was an element of religion brought in. On the Pakistani side, you have a Pakistani leadership, driven by a far-right religious orientation.”

Bilateral Settlement and India’s Sovereign Status

The ferocity of the confrontation between India and Pakistan continued for four days, with drones, missiles, and long-range artillery. On May 10, however, the turning point, India struck eight Pakistani airbases, making them non-operational by targeting the runways and command structures. This firm retaliation forced the Pakistani army to accede to the demand to stop firing. Jaishankar stated, “Now what has happened is that, at the moment, there is no firing and there’s been some repositioning of forces accordingly.”

Despite international appeals to cool down, Jaishankar reiterated that India managed things bilaterally without any external agency. He averred, “We made one thing very clear to everybody who spoke to us. If the Pakistanis want to stop fighting, they need to tell us. We need to hear it from them. Their general has to call up our general and say this. And that is what happened.”

Furthermore, India strictly confines its conversation with Pakistan to halting terrorism and securing the return of illegally occupied Kashmir regions. Jaishankar strongly declared, “The borders in Kashmir are not on the table because Kashmir belongs to India.”

Security and Economic Prosperity: Two Sides of the Same Coin

Jaishankar also addressed concerns that border tensions hinder India’s economic development. He stated, “Our security issues were much more threatening than yours [Europe’s], so we had to prioritize security. You don’t prioritize between security and economic growth. Today, you are realizing that they are from the same coin.”

India’s policy also indicates that ensuring national security is a necessary condition for economic growth and stability that can endure. The government’s response also conveys that it will not accept acts that endanger its citizens or sovereignty.

“We Weren’t Watchful”: Jyoti Malhotra Blamed Citizens in Video on Pahalgam Attack | Watch

May 20, 2025, 5:41 pm

Travel blogger Jyoti Malhotra, currently in the eye of a high-profile spy saga, has been mired deeper in controversy after an archived video surfaced. In the video posted on Instagram after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, Malhotra called on citizens to take responsibility as much as the government. The attack killed 26 people—mostly tourists—and prompted Operation Sindoor and escalated into a low but intense four-day war with Pakistan.

In the viral clip, the Haryana YouTuber, whose channel name is ‘Travel with Jo’, is heard saying, “Not just the government, this (attack) is the responsibility of every individual who visits these places and should be watchful. I know J&K has high security, and there are Army and police personnel in every corner. If something like this has happened despite that, then we are also at fault in some way. Perhaps we weren’t watchful (enough), which is why this happened. We should be watchful and responsible.”

View this post on Instagram.

A post shared by Being Political (@being_political)

Controversial Remarks by Jyoti Malhotra

Her words, although perhaps aimed at promoting civic awareness, now raise uncomfortable questions following her arrest for allegedly assisting Pakistani intelligence agents. She continued, “If anybody is supporting those terrorists, then we are not Indian. If we are only corrupt and wrong, then that is soul-wrenching. It’s very wrong for any country. If anybody has supported those terrorists, it is wrong. We are ourselves responsible for that. Our government is responsible because somewhere, there was a lapse in security. Something went wrong because of which such a big attack happened.”

These declarations take a diametrically opposite view of the espionage accusations leveled against her, rendering her statement either profoundly ironic or perilously deceitful.

From Travel Diaries to Espionage Files

Malhotra’s transition from a successful travel blogger to a suspected spy has shocked the public. Her upbeat travel videos had more than 377,000 YouTube subscribers, and her alleged dual life remained hidden behind them. As per the FIR lodged at Hisar Civil Lines Police Station, she had met Ehsan-ur-Rahim alias Danish, who works as a staffer at the Pakistan High Commission, on a 2023 visit. As her handler, Danish is said to have introduced her to various Pakistani Intelligence Operatives (PIOs) and kept an encrypted contact with them.

Jyoti Malhotra allegedly traveled to Pakistan twice in 2023 and met handlers Ali Ehwan, Shakir, and Rana Shahbaz. To evade detection, she stored contacts under nicknames such as “Jatt Randhawa.” Currently booked under Sections 3, 4, and 5 of the Official Secrets Act, 1923, and Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, she is still in custody under police remand as investigations go deeper.

Need for Vigilance on Social Influence and National Security

The surfaced clip reminds us of a significant concern—the power held by social media influencers. With her account having gone dormant now, her case highlights an imperative for greater scrutiny of the role played by influencers in national conversation. The country needs to come to terms with the double danger of an external enemy and inner weakness covered up by charm and online presence.

Pakistan’s Pahalgam dossier is a rambling mix of propaganda, poor proof and patchy English

May 20, 2025, 1:09 am

In what was presumably meant to be a hard-hitting diplomatic counter to India’s response after the 22 April Pahalgam massacre, a ‘dossier’ made by Pakistan intelligence agency, the ISI in collaboration with military commanders, has instead emerged as a jumbled, poorly edited document that under- mines its own credibility.

Meant to rally international sympathy and support, the 18-page file fails to present a coherent, persuasive narrative and suffers not just from weak arguments, but also from glaring spelling mistakes, broken grammar, and propaganda-level tone.

The dossier, accessed by the Daily Guardian, alleges that India orchestrated the Pahalgam attack as a “false flag” to justify military strikes on Pakistani territory. It accuses India of targeting religious sites, killing civilians, and fabricating its narrative to cover up internal security failures.

But for all its sweeping claims, the dossier contains no visual evidence, no primary documents, no satellite imagery, and no verifiable third-party sources. Repeated mentions of “international media” are made, yet not a single article is quoted, foot- noted, or hyperlinked. The writing, at several points, is shockingly poor for a document presumably meant for diplomatic audiences.

Take this sentence from the Executive Summary: “Based on fabricated facts and using the Pahalgam false flag as justification, India targeted various locations in Pakistan, including Muridke, Bahawalpur and Muzaffarabad and also sent 100 plus Drones in Pakistan territory.”

Besides its clunky structure, “100 plus Drones” is both grammatically awkward and informally phrased. “Drones into Pakistani territory” would have been correct, and “100-plus drones” would be the proper form.

Another gem appears in the section on Indian media, where the dossier reads, “Indian media war hysteria and fake news factory even expose by credible international media with facts.” This is not just grammatically wrong it’s incoherent.

“Even exposed” is the correct form, and the phrase “with facts” is tacked on like a slogan. The overall sentence reads like it skipped both proofreading and translation quality control. In multiple places, the term “innocents’ civilians” appears an incorrect possessive construction.

The intended phrase is likely “innocent civilians,” but the document uses the grammatically impossible version at least twice. It also refers to an FIR being “lunched” against Pakistan clearly a misspelling of “launched,” but never corrected and served to international bodies. The document also frequently breaks from English syntax norms- “Just after the 10 minutes of incident, FIR was lunched against Pakistan without any evidence.” Again, grammatically incorrect.

It should read: “Just ten minutes after the incident, an FIR was launched against Pakistan.” The repetition of such errors gives the document the feel of a rushed, machine-translated draft not the official position of a sovereign nation. Beyond grammar, the rhetorical tone of the dossier oscillates between victimhood and bombast, often slipping into unfiltered aggression.

India is accused of “naked aggression,” “murdering innocents,” “weaponizing violence,” and committing “unprovoked acts.” These phrases are repeated throughout with little variation, weakening their impact. It reads less like a diplomatic dossier and more like a tabloid op-ed.

The list of supposed military victories claimed by Pakistan further stretches credibility. The dossier says that Pakistan military destroyed S-400 systems, BrahMos storage units, multiple Indian brigades, and shot down Rafale jets. It claims: “Pakistan precisely targeted only the military installations and platforms that launched attacks on its territory, strictly avoiding civilian areas.” But there is no evidence no photos, no independent confirmation, no satellite data.

The sheer scale of these claimed victories, without a single corroborating source, makes the entire account sound fabricated or greatly exaggerated, as a director level official with an international body and a non-Indian who also read the dossier, told the Daily Guardian.

Strategically, the document also defeats itself. It calls for a third-party investigation, but insists throughout that India is guilty undermining its own supposed openness. It criticizes India for reaching conclusions too quickly after the attack, yet immediately brands the attack as a staged “false flag” in its opening paragraphs.

That contradiction is not subtle; it’s central to the case and breaks whatever logical structure the narrative tries to build. On the presentation side, even the Table of Contents is riddled with issues.

One section is titled, “Indian Own Media and Intellectuals Raising Question about the Pahalgam Incident.” This is grammatically incorrect. It should be “Indian Media and Intellectuals Raising Questions.” The phrase “Indian Own Media” is clunky and non-native in tone, suggesting poor editorial oversight.

Even the name of Pakistan’s own military operation Operation Bunyanum Marsoos is introduced with no background, no explanation, and no translation. For an international audience, unfamiliar with Urdu or military jargon, this comes across as both alienating and confusing. In terms of diplomatic function, the dossier is non-strategic.

It offers no roadmap, no proposals, no references to regional dialogue mechanisms, no appeal to the UN beyond the shallow invocation of Article 51. It offers no vision for peace, only accusation after accusation. There is no balancing act, no of mutual responsibility, or even of complex regional dynamics.

The official who read the dossier told the Daily Guardian that Pakistan’s dossier falls far below the standard of a serious diplomatic document. It’s not just weak it’s self-defeating. Its errors in language, logic, tone, and evidence are so extensive that it not only fails to make a case it damages the very credibility it seeks to defend.

Why Kashmir Remains the Biggest Flashpoint Between India and Pakistan | TDG Explainer

May 16, 2025, 3:00 am

When British Raj ended in 1947, it left a divided subcontinent behind. India and Pakistan came into existence along with the Partition, and it resulted in widespread communal riots, mass migration, and the displacement of millions. One of the most disputed legacies of the division was the princely state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Princely states were, at the time of Partition, offered a choice to accede to India or Pakistan. Maharaja Hari Singh, who ruled Jammu and Kashmir, first wished to keep his state independent. Later, in October 1947, Pakistani tribal militias invaded Kashmir, when Hari Singh requested the assistance of India. In exchange, he agreed to the Instrument of Accession, under which Indian forces were flown into Kashmir. This act triggered the Kashmir dispute.

The First War and the UN Intervention

The First Indo-Pak War broke out in 1947-48 regarding control over Kashmir. The war ended in 1949 with a ceasefire brokered by the United Nations, leading to the region being partitioned along the Line of Control (LoC). India had control over about two-thirds of the region, while Pakistan had one-third, which it calls “Azad Jammu and Kashmir.”

The UN also advocated a plebiscite to decide the fate of Kashmir, but it never took place as there were disagreements regarding the conditions.

The Second, Third Wars Effecting Jammu and Kashmir

Kashmir was still at the focus of the 1965 Indo-Pak War when Pakistan had initiated Operation Gibraltar with the goal of infiltrating troops into Kashmir to foment rebellion. India responded with extensive military action. The war ended with the Tashkent Agreement, mediated by the Soviet Union.

India and Pakistan clashed again in 1971, primarily for East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). Although the conflict was not specifically about Kashmir, its consequences resulted in the Shimla Agreement, where both countries mutually agreed to settle their problems bilaterally, including Kashmir.

Kargil Conflict: The 1999 Flashpoint

In 1999, Pakistani troops and militants overran strategic heights in the Kargil sector. India launched Operation Vijay, pushing the intruders back. The war was a risky escalation since it came on the heels of nuclear tests in 1998 by both nations.

Kargil reaffirmed Kashmir’s place as an international hotbed and brought to light the nuclear danger.

Terrorism and the Emergence of Proxy War

From the late 1980s, Pakistan-sponsored militants and terror organizations such as Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) stepped up attacks in Indian-occupied Kashmir. Such significant events include the 2001 attack on the Indian Parliament and the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

India has repeatedly accused Pakistan of employing terrorism as a strategic instrument in Kashmir. Pakistan denies this, though international observers have attested to the existence of terror infrastructure across the line of control.

Article 370 Abrogation: A New Chapter in Jammu and Kashmir

In August 2019, India revoked Article 370, canceling Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and dividing it into two Union Territories. Pakistan condemned the action and reduced diplomatic ties.

India referred to it as a domestic integration process. The decision re-ignited tensions, escalated LoC hostilities, and concentrated international attention on the region.

Pahalgam Terror Attack Triggers Operation Sindoor

The battle raged again in 2025 when terrorists launched a brutal attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, killing 26 civilians. The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy for Lashkar-e-Taiba, owned the attack. The attack fanned national indignation in India and demanded prompt military reprisal.

India initiated Operation Sindoor on 7th May 2025 against terror camps in Pakistan and PoK. Nine locations were identified and targeted by drone attacks and precision missiles. It was a quick and organized operation to destroy the command hubs responsible for the Pahalgam attack.

India and Pakistan traded heavy cross-border fire, including artillery and air support, for four days. The situation reached a dangerous level before a ceasefire was negotiated on May 10 through desperate diplomatic interventions.

After the ceasefire, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif indicated a willingness to talk. But Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar made it clear: India would talk only if Pakistan demonstrated visible and verifiable action against terror outfits and surrendered wanted terrorists.

Strategic Importance of Kashmir

Kashmir’s geography provides it with unparalleled strategic importance. It shares borders with China, Pakistan, and Afghanistan, and dominates water sources critical to Pakistan’s agriculture, particularly the Indus River.

Dominion over Kashmir also carries symbolic importance. To India, it confirms sovereignty and integrity. To Pakistan, it is a cause linked to national identity and past claims.

The Road Ahead: Peace or Perpetual Conflict?

In spite of historical peace gestures such as trade and bus communications, trust still eludes. Any terror attack or military move negates tentative diplomatic gains.

Recent words, though, on both sides do provide a ray of hope. If Pakistan cracks down on terror organizations and India remains receptive to positive dialogue, then there can be a possibility of meaningful advancement.

Until then, Kashmir will continue to be the most tense flashpoint between two nuclear-armed neighbors, a place where history, politics, and ideology continue to clash with cataclysmic results.

Gunfight Between Security Forces And Terrorists In J&K’s Shopian, After PM Modi’s ‘No Tolerance for Terror’ Warning

May 13, 2025, 11:29 am

A fierce gun battle is underway in the Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir, where security forces are engaging four terrorists. According to sources in the security establishment, the encounter initially broke out in Kulgam and then shifted to a forested region of Shopian. Personnel from the Army and paramilitary forces have been battling the terrorists for nearly two hours after intercepting them based on an intelligence tip-off.

Tense Timing Amid Post-Operation Sindoor Climate

The timing of this confrontation holds serious significance. It follows closely after Operation Sindoor, India’s forceful response to the brutal Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 innocent lives were lost. As part of its counteroffensive, India carried out targeted airstrikes against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), signaling a dramatic shift in policy toward cross-border terrorism.

Modi Declares ‘New Normal’ in Fight Against Terrorism

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation yesterday, outlining the strategic shift introduced by Operation Sindoor. He said, “First, if there is a terrorist attack on India, a fitting reply will be given. We will give a befitting response on our terms only. We will take strict action at every place from where the roots of terrorism emerge.”

He continued, “Secondly, India will not tolerate any nuclear blackmail. India will strike precisely and decisively at the terrorist hideouts developing under the cover of nuclear blackmail.”

Highlighting the role of Pakistan, Modi stated, “Thirdly, we will not differentiate between the government sponsoring terrorism and the masterminds of terrorism. During Operation Sindoor the world has again seen the ugly face of Pakistan, when top Pakistani army officers came to bid farewell to the slain terrorists. This is strong evidence of state-sponsored terrorism. We will continue to take decisive steps to protect India and our citizens from any threat.”

Airstrikes, Retaliation, and the Aftermath

On May 7, Indian forces launched airstrikes targeting terrorist infrastructure within Pakistan and PoK. These precision attacks were aimed solely at terror camps. In retaliation, Pakistan responded with intense shelling, resulting in civilian casualties, and also launched multiple drones and missiles toward Indian civilian areas. However, India’s air defense successfully intercepted most of these attacks.

Following these developments, India struck back by hitting Pakistan’s key military facilities, including major airbases, causing significant damage. A ceasefire was declared on May 10, but Indian forces have maintained high alert levels, asserting that any future provocation will be met with decisive action.

Shaheer Sheikh Shares Heartfelt Tribute to Indian Army After Jammu Terror Attacks

May 13, 2025, 12:51 am

Earlier, TV actor Aly Goni wrote a touching note following the attacks on Jammu by Pakistan last week, wishing well to his relatives in Jammu and thanking the Indian Army. Shaheer Sheikh has also thanked the Indian Armed Forces now, sharing sleepless nights worrying about his family in the area.

A Message of Gratitude by Shaheer Sheikh

Shaheer took to Instagram and wrote, “Eternally indebted to our armed forces! My mother and sister are in Jammu… and the attacks gave us all sleepless nights. But to see the precision, swiftness and bravery with which our forces responded is remarkable. I can only imagine what the families of a soldier go through when their ‘own’ is on the frontline. Hats off to the soldiers, hats off to their families.”

He further expressed his condolences to those who lost their lives in the attacks, adding, “This bravery on and outside of the battlefield is what keeps our country and its countrymen safe. My sincere condolences to the people who lost their loved ones in these trying times. Jai Hind.”

Terrorist Attack in Jammu: The Pahalgam Incident

On 22 April, terrorists targeted the Baisaran meadow in the town of Pahalgam in Anantnag district, killing 26 civilians, the majority of them tourists. Some others were also injured. The Resistance Front, a splinter group of Lashkar-e-Taiba, owned up to the attack. India accused Pakistan of cross-border terrorism; however, Pakistan has rejected the allegations. The attack was one of the deadliest in the area since the 2019 Pulwama attack that killed 40 CRPF jawans.

India Strikes Back: Operation Sindoor

In response to the Pahalgam terror attack, Indian military forces launched missile strikes early on Wednesday against nine terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, including Bahawalpur, a Jaish-e-Mohammad terror group stronghold. The military operations were conducted under ‘Operation Sindoor’, as announced by a statement of the Indian Army released at 1:44 am on 8 May.

“A little while ago, the Indian armed forces launched ‘OPERATION SINDOOR’, hitting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed,” the Indian statement said. “Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution,” it added.

Latest Work of Shaheer Sheikh

Shaheer was last seen in the movie Do Patti. He was the lead actor opposite Kriti Sanon, who played a double role in the movie. Directed by debutant Shashanka Chaturvedi and written by Kanika Dhillon, the thriller also starred Kajol and Tanvi Azmi in important roles. The movie can be streamed on Netflix.

“This is not the era of War”: PM Modi after Operation Sindoor Response to Pahalgam Attack | Watch

May 12, 2025, 9:13 pm

In a robust national address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that although “this is not the era of war,” it most definitely “is not the era of terrorism either.” He pointed to India’s decisive military reaction to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack by Operation Sindoor.

“We have beaten Pakistan each time on the battlefield. And this time, Operation Sindoor has given a new dimension. In this operation, the genuineness of our ‘Made in India’ weapons has been established,” PM Modi said in a video message. He emphasized India’s technological and strategic self-reliance.

#WATCH | “This is not the era of war, but this is also not the era of terrorism,” says PM Modi

He says “We have defeated Pakistan every time on the battlefield and this time Operation Sindoor has added a new dimension… During this operation, the authenticity of our ‘Made in… pic.twitter.com/7ys7rkVcFu

— ANI (@ANI) May 12, 2025

The Pahalgam Attack: A Dark Day in Kashmir

On April 22, the serene tourist resort of Pahalgam in Anantnag district of Indian-administered Kashmir was hit by the most devastating terror strike in 25 years. Suspected militants fired on civilians. They killed a minimum of 26 individuals, most of whom were tourists and labourers. The attack came during the region’s peak tourist season. It caused shockwaves across the nation.

The ferocity of the massacre attacking innocents in a city famous for its natural beauty revived arguments about cross-border terrorism. It also reignited discussions on Pakistan’s supposed patronage to militant outfits.

Operation Sindoor: Speedy Military Action

As a reprisal, India conducted Operation Sindoor on May 7. It targeted suspected terror launchpads along the Line of Control (LoC). Executed with swift precision, the operation was claimed to be a success by defence officials. It resulted in minimal collateral damage and maximum effects on the enemy infrastructure.

The name Sindoor, a representation of sacred offering, was chosen as a tribute to the memory of the victims. The casualties were dominated by women and children.

Escalating Tensions, Violations of the Ceasefire Amidst Speech of PM Modi

After the strikes, there were reports of ceasefire violations on the LoC on May 9. Pakistan accused India of unprovoked aggression. India rejected the claims. It alleged that its operations were purely a defensive measure and meant to neutralize real threats.

Holding high degrees of tension at bay, there are still functioning backchannels. These continue to enable diplomacy as a means to keep things from further escalating.

A Message of Strength and Resolve by PM Modi

PM Modi’s address fused a message of restraint with unmistakable firmness. While invoking the mantra of peace, he made it clear that terrorism will not be tolerated. India will act decisively when provoked.

As security is heightened across Kashmir, the Centre continues to reassure citizens and tourists. It promises that safety and order will be maintained.

Amitabh Bachchan Honors Army’s Bravery with Poetic Salute Post-Pahalgam Attack

May 11, 2025, 2:33 pm

Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan has expressed deep admiration for the Indian Army’s bravery following the Pahalgam terror attack and the military’s retaliatory Operation Sindoor. In a heartfelt social media post, Bachchan condemned the attack and honored the swift response of Indian forces. Describing the tragic scene in Pahalgam, Bachchan shared his sorrow, emphasizing the cruelty of the terrorists.

He quoted his late father, renowned poet Harivansh Rai Bachchan, invoking the emotional line, “There are ashes of the funeral pyre, the world is asking for vermilion,” and linked it to the military’s response with Operation Sindoor. Bachchan ended with an impassioned salute to the Indian Army, drawing on his father’s words: “You will never stop; you will never turn back; you will never bow down. Take an oath, take an oath, take an oath! Agni Path!”

The Indian government had earlier accused Pakistan of violating the ceasefire agreement, hours after the operation’s commencement. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri confirmed the violations and stressed that India’s armed forces had been instructed to respond firmly to any further aggression. Operation Sindoor aimed to neutralize terror infrastructure across the border in retaliation for the attack.

Ixigo Joins National Sentiment, Halts Bookings to Turkey, Azerbaijan, and China

May 10, 2025, 5:20 pm

In a rare display of corporate nationalism, Indian travel and booking site ixigo on Saturday suspended all flights and hotel reservations to Turkey, Azerbaijan, and China. The company made the move amid growing diplomatic tensions following India’s Operation Sindoor, a retaliatory military action on terror infrastructure along the Pakistan border after the Pahalgam terror attack that killed many.

Declaring the decision on X, ixigo stated, “In solidarity with our nation, ixigo is suspending flight and hotel bookings for Turkey, Azerbaijan, and China. Because when it comes to Bharat, we don’t think twice. Jai Hind.”

For the love of our nation, we stand united. pic.twitter.com/GqKKzQ4as9

— ixigo (@ixigo) May 10, 2025

Tensions Rise as Countries Respond to Operation Sindoor

India’s forceful reaction has evoked varied responses from the global community. While there have been neutral countries, others have made sharper comments opposing India’s move. Turkey, traditionally Pakistan’s strategic friend, came out with a strongly worded rebuke through its foreign ministry.

“We are following the developments between Pakistan and India with concern. The attack carried out by India last night (6 May) raises the risk of an all-out war. We condemn such provocative steps as well as attacks targeting civilians and civilian infrastructure,” the Turkish statement added.

Shortly thereafter, Azerbaijan too added its voice to the chorus of alarm, declaring, “The Republic of Azerbaijan expresses its concern over the further escalation of tension between the Republic of India and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.”

The statement went on to denounce the raid, stating further, “We condemn military attacks against the Islamic Republic of Pakistan that killed and injured several civilians. Being in solidarity with the people of Pakistan, we express condolences to the families of the innocent victims and wish a speedy recovery to those who were injured.”

China Calls for Restraint, Offers Regret

At the same time, China appealed for restraint and dialogue and condemned India’s military intervention. In a statement, its foreign ministry stated, “China expresses regret over India’s military actions this morning and is concerned about the current developments. China opposes all forms of terrorism. We call on both India and Pakistan to prioritize peace and stability, remain calm and restrained, and avoid taking actions that further complicate the situation.”

Emphasizing its neutral but warning tone, the statement further said, “China finds India’s military operation early this morning regrettable… India and Pakistan are and will always be each other’s neighbors. They’re both China’s neighbors as well.”

A Corporate Patriotism Moment

Ixigo’s daring move has set tongues wagging on social media, with most praising the company for its courage. Symbolic as it may be, the action resonates with increasingly vocal public opinion against countries seen to take the side of enemies in moments of national crisis.

As tensions persist, such acts by private sector players highlight how geopolitical changes can have a ripple effect on the corporate world.

Alert! 20 Indian Airports Closed As Tensions With Pakistan | Full List Here

May 8, 2025, 9:09 am

In the wake of heightened India-Pakistan tensions and the closure of airspace in northern and western India, passenger flight operations have been suspended at nearly 20 airports until 5:29 am IST on May 10, as per a NOTAM issued by the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

The disruption follows India’s missile strikes on terror camps in Pakistan’s Punjab province and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 tourists.

Airports Temporarily Shut

Flight operations have been halted at the following airports: Leh, Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Pathankot, Chandigarh, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Jamnagar, Bhatinda, Bhuj, Dharamshala, Shimla, Rajkot, Porbandar, Bikaner, Hindon, Kishangarh, Kandla, and Gwalior.

Authorities have cited security concerns as the primary reason for these shutdowns. Several airlines have already issued advisories, urging passengers to reschedule or cancel travel plans involving these airports.

Airlines Respond to Airspace Restrictions

IndiGo stated, “Over 165 of our flights from airports including Amritsar, Bikaner, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Gwalior, Jammu, Jodhpur, Kishangarh, Leh, Rajkot, and Srinagar are cancelled until 5:29 am IST on 10 May 2025, due to government-imposed airspace restrictions.” The airline has offered free rescheduling or full refunds for affected customers.

Air India announced via X that flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot are cancelled until May 10. “A one-time waiver on rescheduling fees or full refunds will be provided to affected passengers,” the airline said.

Air India Express also confirmed full refunds or free changes for passengers traveling to and from Amritsar, Gwalior, Jammu, Srinagar, and Hindon until May 10.

SpiceJet, in its advisory, noted: “Due to the evolving situation, several airports in northern India—such as Dharamshala, Leh, Jammu, Srinagar, and Amritsar—are closed until further notice, with potential impacts on departures, arrivals, and related flights.”

Foreign Airlines Reroute Mid-Air

Following the missile strikes, most foreign carriers also stopped overflights through Pakistani airspace. Some planes en route were forced to reroute mid-flight.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines reported extended flight times, stating, “The Amsterdam to Delhi flight will take an hour longer, while the Amsterdam to Mumbai flight will be extended by one hour and 15 minutes.”

Air India also said that two international flights bound for Amritsar were diverted to Delhi as a precautionary measure.

Travel Advisory

Authorities have requested passengers to check flight statuses online and opt for rescheduling or refunds where applicable. With the situation still developing, air travel disruptions may continue beyond May 10 depending on regional security assessments.

Indian Army Posted ‘Ready to Strike’ Video Before Sindoor Ops | WATCH

May 7, 2025, 6:00 am

Minutes before it began to carry out airstrikes as part of Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army posted a video showing tanks, guns, and soldiers with weapons in action. The video concluded with the message: “Always ready, always victorious.” The video was accompanied by the caption: “Ready to Strike, Trained to Win.”

Soon after the video went public, Reuters reported hearing blasts in Pakistan’s Bahawalpur and Muzaffarabad areas. It was subsequently confirmed by the Indian Defence Ministry that nine terror-related sites had been hit.

Watch the Video Here:

“प्रहाराय सन्निहिताः, जयाय प्रशिक्षिताः”
Ready to Strike, Trained to Win.#IndianArmy pic.twitter.com/M9CA9dv1Xx

— ADG PI – INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) May 6, 2025

“A little while ago, the Indian armed forces launched ‘OPERATION SINDOOR‘, targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir from where terrorist attacks against India have been planned and directed,” the ministry’s official statement read.

The strikes were conducted as a direct retaliation against the Pahalgam terror attack of a fortnight ago that killed 25 Indians and one Nepali national. Indian authorities explained that the attacks were “focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature,” adding that “no Pakistani military installations have been targeted.” They also asserted that “India has exercised a great deal of restraint in target selection and execution method.”

The pre-strike video included Indian troops gearing up for combat—firing tanks and loading guns. A voice in the background also says, “The burden of my brothers and sisters’ pain shall find you.”

Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) responded to the strike, stating that India had launched airstrikes at three targets—Bahawalpur, Kotli, and Muzaffarabad—and still within Indian airspace.

“All Pakistan Air Force planes are airborne. All the strikes were carried out by India from within its own airspace,” the ISPR release observed.

The Pakistani military also warned that it would retaliate. “Pakistan will hit back at a time and place of its own choice. It will not remain unanswered. India’s temporary joy will be followed by permanent sorrow,” stated ISPR Director General.

How India’s Operation Sindoor Took Down Terror Camps in Pakistan, PoK

May 7, 2025, 5:55 am

India, in the early hours of Wednesday, carried out “Operation Sindoor.” A series of precision strikes successfully destroyed 9 terrorist bases inside Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The tri-services operation was conducted jointly by the Army, Navy, and the Air Force. It was carried out from Indian soil.

Measured and Non-Escalatory Approach

The defence ministry said Operation Sindoor was “focused, measured and non-escalatory” and avoided any Pakistani military facilities.

The targets included the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) headquarters in Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba’s (LeT) base in Muridke, news agency PTI reported. The strikes avenged the brutal April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians.

How the Strikes Were Executed

Here’s how the strikes were carried out: The exact coordinates of the terrorist targets were provided by intelligence agencies.Indian forces had selected the location for strikes. The intent was to target top Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar leadership. They were targeted for their role in sponsoring terrorist activities in India.

The three services the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly carried out the operation and mobilisation of assets and troops. Special precision munitions were used to target the terror camps. Of the nine targets successfully hit by the Indian forces, four were in Pakistan and five in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Targets in Pakistan and PoK

The targets in Pakistan included Bahawalpur, Muridke, and Sialkot. India targeted Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba headquarters in Pakistan. The operation focused on the headquarters of banned terror groups Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) in Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in Muridke. Bahawalpur has long served as JeM’s base since its founder, UN-designated terrorist Masood Azhar, was released in 1999. JeM has been behind major attacks in India, including Pulwama and Parliament.

The defence ministry stated that no Pakistani military facilities were hit, calling the response “measured and non-escalatory.”

India’s Diplomatic Efforts Post-Operation

Following the precision strikes, India reached out to several world capitals and briefed senior officials about its anti-terror actions against Pakistan. NSA Ajit Doval spoke to US NSA and Secretary of State Marco Rubio and briefed him on the actions taken.

“India has credible leads, technical inputs, testimony of the survivors and other evidence pointing towards the clear involvement of Pakistan-based terrorists in this attack,” the Indian embassy in Washington said. “It was expected that Pakistan would take action against terrorists and the infrastructure that supports them,” it said. “Instead, during the fortnight that has gone by, Pakistan has indulged in denial and made allegations of false flag operations against India,” the embassy added.

What is Operation Sindoor? A Summary of India’s Strike on Terror Camps in Pakistan

May 7, 2025, 5:14 am

Following the barbaric terror strike in Pahalgam, India had begun Operation Sindoor, and Indian Air Force planes bombed nine terror camps in Pakistan and PoJK. The Indian Air Force aircraft struck at major terrorist infrastructure, such as the headquarters of Lashkar-e-Taiba in Muridke and Jaish-e-Mohammad in Bahawalpur. The Indian Army confirmed that the strikes were an act of retaliation after the fatal attack on April 22 that claimed the lives of 26 individuals, including 25 Indians and one Nepali citizen.

Precision Strikes and Targeted Infrastructure

The operation involved the use of advanced precision strike weapons such as standoff missiles and loitering munitions. Senior officials disclosed that the intelligence agencies offered precise coordinates to ensure the strikes landed on terrorist camps instead of Pakistani military locations. Indian air force jets and other military forces were engaged to conduct the operation, which was considered focused and non-escalatory. The Army made clear that no Pakistani military facilities were targeted, but the main target was to counter terrorist infrastructure involved in planning and conducting attacks on India.

Focused and Measured Response

India’s reaction after the operation highlighted that the strikes were calibrated and proportionate, with utmost restraint exercised in choosing the targets. The Indian Army explained that the operation was intended to dismantle terror groups operating in PoJK and Pakistan, which have been responsible for various attacks on Indian territory. The release again reiterated that the response was a direct result of the Pahalgam attack, and India remains determined to bring those responsible to justice.

Pakistan’s Response and Mounting Tensions

After the operation, Pakistan’s military confirmed that three targets were struck—two in PoJK and one in Bahawalpur. Pakistan also suspended its airspace for 48 hours against the strikes. Pakistan has also violated the ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC) with increased artillery shelling, and India has taken retaliatory action.

Prime Minister Modi Grants Operational Freedom

The attacks were conducted at the behest of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had provided the Indian armed forces complete operational freedom to react to the Pahalgam attack. With the operation ongoing, India and Pakistan are still on high alert with each side bracing for action and international focus on the developing situation.

India Strikes Back: Retaliation for Pahalgam Attack Leaves Two Pakistani Civilians dead, 12 Injured

May 7, 2025, 3:13 am

In a bold move of retaliation for the deadly Pahalgam attack, India launched a series of missile strikes across Pakistan. The DG ISPR confirmed that two Pakistani civilians were dead and 12 others were injured as a result of the explosions that took place in cities such as Kotli, Muzaffarabad, Bahawalpur, and Muridke.

The missile strikes were launched from India’s airspace during the dead of night, and Pakistan’s DG ISPR described the attack as a cowardly act. In Bahawalpur, a powerful explosion illuminated the sky before the blast, and sources reported explosions in Muzaffarabad as well. Eyewitnesses in Muzaffarabad mentioned a complete blackout, which added to the panic during the missile strikes.

Pakistan’s Immediate Response: Airspace Closed and Flight Suspensions

In response to India’s strikes, Pakistan has closed its airspace, suspending all flight operations, including those from major airports in Islamabad and Lahore. Aviation sources have confirmed that a 48-hour airspace closure has been imposed, leading to the cancellation of more than 25 flights to international destinations including Qatar, Dubai, and Bahrain.

Pakistan’s military has also indicated that the country will retaliate at an appropriate time, ensuring that India’s “temporary euphoria” will turn into lasting consequences. The DG ISPR emphasized that Pakistan will not tolerate any further provocations and will continue to defend its sovereignty with resolve.

India Strikes 9 Terror Targets in Pakistan & PoJK Under Operation Sindoor | Watch

May 7, 2025, 2:35 am

In a decisive yet restrained military action, the Indian Armed Forces launched ‘Operation Sindoor’, striking nine terror-linked sites across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). The operation was executed in response to the brutal Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed the lives of 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen on April 22.

According to the Ministry of Defence’s official press release, the strikes targeted terrorist infrastructure from where attacks against India were planned and directed. Importantly, no Pakistani military facilities were hit, indicating India’s intent to avoid escalation and instead deliver a focused counterstrike.

“These actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature,” the official statement emphasized. “India has demonstrated considerable restraint in the selection of targets and method of execution.”

Nine Precision Strikes, Zero Military Escalation

The strikes were carried out early on May 7, 2025, and were confirmed by the Press Information Bureau (PIB) Delhi at 1:44 AM IST. Sources familiar with the matter said nine (9) locations known to host or support terrorist operations were precisely hit. All targets were non-military in nature, aiming to eliminate terror camps and logistical support bases used by cross-border militant outfits.

Adding to the confirmation, the Indian Army’s official X (formerly Twitter) handle @adgpi posted a sharp message: “#PahalgamTerrorAttack Justice is Served. Jai Hind!”

#PahalgamTerrorAttack

Justice is Served.

Jai Hind! pic.twitter.com/Aruatj6OfA

— ADG PI – INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) May 6, 2025

The tweet was accompanied by a symbolic image, reflecting the Indian Army’s declaration of retribution for the April massacre in Kashmir’s Baisaran meadow.

Global Reactions and Signals of Strategic Resolve

Additionally, independent reports from across the border acknowledged the strikes. According to Sputnik India, multiple Pakistani journalists reported Indian missile strikes in Muzaffarabad, the capital of PoJK. Video clips showing explosions and nighttime panic have since surfaced online.

⚡️BREAKING: ??Pakistani journalists report ‘Indian missile strikes’ on Muzaffarabad (Pakistan-controlled Kashmir) pic.twitter.com/6Lcmwz6Xo5

— Sputnik India (@Sputnik_India) May 6, 2025

In a statement shared via ANI, Indian authorities reiterated that the country had “lived up to the commitment that those responsible for this attack will be held accountable.”

Altogether, nine (9) sites have been targeted. Our actions have been focused, measured and non-escalatory in nature. No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint in selection of targets and method of execution. These steps… https://t.co/c2FnTATRtB

— ANI (@ANI) May 6, 2025

This is India’s first major cross-border military action since the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, marking a significant shift in its counter-terror posture. A detailed briefing by the Indian defence establishment is expected later today.

India’s calibrated response underscores its zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism, executed with strategic maturity and clear intent.

“No Cricket, No Bollywood With Pakistan”: Gautam Gambhir Demands Total Ban After Terror Attack

May 7, 2025, 12:34 am

India captain Gautam Gambhir demanded a total ban on all contacts with Pakistan, including but not limited to cricket series, Bollywood films and cultural festivals, after the terror attack that killed 26 people on April 22 at the Baisaran meadow in the Pehelgam area of Kashmir.

Past Cricketing Relations Between India and Pakistan

India have cut bilateral cricketing relations with Pakistan after the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks. It resumed for one three-match ODI series in India in 2012, but since then they only meet at multi-team tournaments such as the Asia Cup and ICC competitions (World Cups and Champions Trophies). At an ABP gathering, Gambhir stated that even that must stop.

Gambhir says “No Interaction More Important Than Lives of Our People”

“My personal answer to this, is absolutely no. This is my personal answer, ultimately this is government’s decision, and ultimately, government will decide, whether we play Pakistan, or we don’t play Pakistan, but for me, I have said this before, and many years ago, I had said this, that no cricket match, no Bollywood movie, no artist, any kind of interaction is more important than the lives of our people. No interaction is more important than the lives of our people, than the lives of our youth, than the lives of our people. Matches will keep happening, movies will keep being made, singers will keep singing, but the person whose family is lost, nothing bigger than that. This is my personal opinion, that till all this doesn’t stop, there should not be anything between India and Pakistan,” Gambhir said.

India’s Diplomatic Response to Terror Attack

Following the horrific terror attack that sent the whole country into shock. Innocent tourists were shot dead in daylight. India declared a number of steps against Pakistan. These included suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty. Closure of the sole land border crossing at Attari. And diplomatic downgrading in light of cross-border connections to the attack. Among other steps, India also suspended the social media accounts of prominent Pakistani actors and sportspersons.

Asked directly if India was going to play Pakistan in the Asia Cup this year or the T20 World Cup, to be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka next year, Gambhir put the responsibility on the BCCI and the government.

“Let the Government Decide” Gambhir on Future Matches

“Playing Pakistan in the Asia Cup or T20 World Cup is not up to me. Honestly, this is not even in my jurisdiction. I think it is up to BCCI and more importantly, it is up to the government to decide whether India plays Pakistan or not, so whatever decision, government makes, I think we should be absolutely fine with it and we should not politicise that. Whatever the government decides, let’s stick to that.”

India-Pakistan Games to Remain at Neutral Venues

The next multilateral competition that India and Pakistan can feature in is the Asia Cup in September. The tournament calendar has not yet been decided, but India and Pakistan are valued members of the Asian Cricket Council.

In the Champions Trophy, India featured in all their matches in Dubai and not in the hosting nation, Pakistan, due to security fears.

As a part of a deal among the BCCI, the Pakistan Cricket Board, and the ICC, India-Pakistan games in ICC tournaments will be held in a neutral venue until the 2027 cycle.

India Calls OIC Remarks on Pakistan, Pahalgam Attack ‘Politically Motivated’

May 6, 2025, 9:06 pm

India on Tuesday strongly criticized the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for its recent statement on the horrific Pahalgam terror attack, calling it “absurd” and “politically motivated.” The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also accused Pakistan of using the OIC to advance an anti-India agenda.

Attack Claimed Lives of Innocent Civilians

The MEA issued a sharp response after the OIC Group in New York released a statement that appeared to challenge India’s account of the deadly attack. The attack, which occurred on April 22 in Jammu and Kashmir, killed 26 civilians, most of whom were tourists. The terrorist assault shocked the nation and drew widespread condemnation from Indian authorities.

The OIC’s statement, issued at Pakistan’s behest, questioned the circumstances surrounding the attack and did not recognize the cross-border nature of the terrorism. The Indian government was quick to reject this stance, asserting that the OIC’s remarks were misleading and harmful.

MEA Calls Out Politically Motivated Narrative

“The OIC statement, issued at the behest of Pakistan, is absurd in refusing to recognize the facts of the Pahalgam terrorist attack and its cross-border linkages. This is yet another attempt by Pakistan, a country that has long engaged in cross-border terrorism, to manipulate and misguide the OIC Group to issue a self-serving statement. We reject the OIC’s interference in matters that are internal to India,” the MEA statement read.

India Urges Global Focus on Counterterrorism

The Indian government also emphasized the importance of holding Pakistan accountable for its role in fostering terrorism in the region. The Ministry of External Affairs made it clear that such statements from international groups only served to undermine the fight against terrorism.

India has repeatedly called for international cooperation to combat terrorism, stressing that organizations like the OIC should focus on addressing the core issue of cross-border terrorism instead of politicizing attacks for diplomatic purposes.

Pahalgam Terror Attack Fallout: 6 Cops Moved Out of Anantnag

May 5, 2025, 10:43 pm

Six days after the Pahalgam terrorist strike, six police officers have been shifted out of Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district, as per an official order released Monday.

Among these postings, the most prominent one is the posting of Inspector Reyaz Ahmad, who has been posted out from Pahalgam Police Station, which is a high-profile and sensitive location where 26 individuals, the majority of whom were tourists, were killed in an attack unleashed by terrorists suspected of having Pakistan linkages.

Inspector Ahmad has now been posted to ASP Camp in Aishmuqam for additional tasks, Other police officials transferred are Jammu and Kashmir police officers Aishmuqam, Nisar Ahmad, Peer Ahmad Gulzar, Salinder Singh, and Parvaiz Ahmad.

Although the police department has not made any official statement regarding the reason for the transfers, the decision comes in the wake of one of the deadliest terror attacks on Kashmir in years, fueling speculation regarding probable lapses in local security monitoring.

The reshuffle also occurs at a time when Anantnag continues to be the epicenter of security operations and post-terror attack surveillance following recent unrest in the area.

Pahalgam Terror Attack: What Happened

On April 22, terrorists believed to have a connection with Pakistan fired shots at tourists in Pahalgam of Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals, the majority of them being holidayers. The civilian attack evoked expressions of shock from all over the nation and had the security tightened throughout the Union Territory.

Security authorities initiated a huge manhunt for the perpetrators, with intelligence agencies attempting to track the network suspected to be behind the attack.

India’s Response: Diplomatic and Strategic Steps

India has announced a series of retaliatory measures against Pakistan in the wake of the attack, such as suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, closing the only functioning land border crossing at Attari, and downgrading diplomatic relations.

Earlier on April 24, Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised to punish the terrorists who carried out the Pahalgam terror attack and their sponsors, assuring the country that the perpetrators would not be spared.

Fatah Missile Test Launch By Pakistan Amid Tensions With India Over Pahalgam Attack | WATCH

May 5, 2025, 2:04 pm

Amid rising tensions with India following the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan on Monday conducted another missile test launch. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Pakistan’s military media wing, announced the successful test of a Fatah Series surface-to-surface missile, capable of striking targets up to 120 kilometers away.

The test, carried out under the ongoing “INDUS Exercise,” involved senior army officers, scientists, and engineers from Pakistan’s strategic organizations. “The launch was aimed at ensuring the operational readiness of troops and validating key technical parameters, including the missile’s advanced navigation system and enhanced accuracy,” ISPR said in a statement.

WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:

Pakistan Flexing

Pakistan test-fires a FATAH-series surface-to-surface missile with a 120 km range during Exercise INDUS. pic.twitter.com/OSQZI4558Z

— Open Source Intel (@Osint613) May 5, 2025

The timing of the test has raised concerns, coming just days after the deadly Pahalgam attack that claimed 26 civilian lives and pushed India-Pakistan relations into deeper hostility. “Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, and the Chief of Army Staff extended their congratulations to the participating troops, scientists, and engineers,” the statement added. “They expressed complete confidence in the operational preparedness and technical proficiency of the Pakistan Army to thwart any aggression against the territorial integrity of Pakistan.”

This marks the second missile test by Pakistan in just three days. On Saturday, Pakistan also carried out a training launch of the Abdali Weapon System, a ballistic missile with a range of 450 kilometers.

Tensions have been further aggravated by Pakistan’s repeated ceasefire violations at the Line of Control over the past 10 days. The situation deteriorated after India announced the suspension of the Indus Water Treaty as part of its strategic response to the Pahalgam massacre.

This is a developing story.

5 Bombs, Wireless Sets Found In Terror Hideout After Pahalgam Horror

May 5, 2025, 12:19 pm

In a major breakthrough, Indian security forces foiled a potential terror attack by busting an underground hideout in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district on Sunday. The joint operation by the Indian Army and the Jammu and Kashmir Police led to the recovery of five explosive devices, two wireless sets, and three blankets from a concealed shelter in the Surankot area.

The crackdown comes nearly two weeks after a horrifying terror attack in Pahalgam claimed the lives of 26 civilians. Security agencies have remained on high alert ever since the April 22 massacre—the deadliest terror strike in the region since the abrogation of Article 370.

Pakistan Resorts to Ceasefire Violation Again

Hours after the hideout was uncovered, Pakistan resumed its unprovoked firing across the Line of Control (LoC) in multiple sectors of Jammu and Kashmir. According to the Indian Army, “During the night of 04 -05 May 2025, Pakistan Army posts resorted to unprovoked small arms fire across the LoC in areas opposite Kupwara, Baramulla, Poonch, Rajouri, Mendhar, Naushera, Sunderbani, and Akhnoor in J&K. Indian Army responded promptly and proportionately.”

This marks the 11th consecutive day of ceasefire violations by Pakistan amid rising cross-border tensions.

Diplomatic Fallout After Pahalgam Attack

India had previously accused Pakistan of orchestrating the Pahalgam attack, citing links to a terrorist group operating from across the border. Pakistan denied involvement and demanded a “neutral probe.” However, the Indian government responded firmly by suspending the Indus Waters Treaty, revoking visas issued to Pakistani citizens, and instructing those residing in India to leave.

Both nations have since downgraded diplomatic ties, reflecting a dramatic escalation in hostilities following the bloodshed in Pahalgam.

‘Failed State’ Pakistan Must Fear India: Owaisi Urges PM Modi After Pahalgam Attack

May 4, 2025, 11:44 pm

AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi on Sunday once again targeted Pakistan. He referred to it as a “failed state” and appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take firm action. He said Pakistan should “think 100 times” before attacking India again.

Speaking at a public meeting, Owaisi said, “We hope the Prime Minister will take strong action against the Pakistani terrorists and the failed state of Pakistan that it will think a hundred times before sending anyone to harm India again.”

Owaisi on Pahalgam terror attack

He also took aim at Pakistan for questioning India’s evidence after past terrorist attacks, especially following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. “Pakistan is shamelessly asking for proof. Didn’t we invite you to Pathankot and show you where your terrorists attacked our Air Force base? You sent your team, they saw it with their own eyes, yet you took no action against those terrorists,” ANI quoted Owaisi as saying.

Owaisi on Personal Memories of 26/11 and Criticism of Inaction

Owaisi recounted a personal experience of the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks to highlight the agony inflicted by cross-border terrorism. “The 26/11 attacks happened. I know a place in Telangana called Nizamabad. One of our daughters from there had just gotten married a few days before, and she was at VT Station with her family when Pakistani terrorists opened fire. She, too, was killed,” he recounted.

He accused Pakistan of consistently denying its involvement in these attacks. “Pakistan will never admit that terrorists from its land come and kill people in India. The time to try and convince Pakistan is over,” he asserted.

Owaisi also criticised the politicisation of terrorism and called for the 26 victims of the recent attack to be officially recognised as martyrs. “I’m saying this with great responsibility, without letting emotions overpower me: it’s time for a response, not reflection. Otherwise, every few months, we’ll keep facing attacks, whether our Army, CRPF personnel, or innocent Kashmiris are targeted,” he remarked

Response to Bangladesh Remarks and International Appeal

At another rally in Bahadurganj on Saturday, Owaisi emphasised that Pakistan would never allow India to live in peace. “Pakistan is a failed nation, and these forces will never let India live in peace. Today is the time to give them a befitting reply. So that this poison of terror ends forever,” he declared.

Owaisi on Saturday also condemned Bangladesh’s former army officer, LM Fazlur Rahman, an assistant to the country’s chief adviser, Muhammad Yunus, for his comments regarding India’s northeastern region.

Rahman stated that Bangladesh must invade and occupy all seven northeastern Indian states if New Delhi attacks Pakistan in response to the recent terror attack in Pahalgam.
Owaisi responded, saying, “In Bangladesh, too, a person is talking nonsense that he will do something in the Northeast. I would also tell them that the country you have got is because of us, and live in peace in your country.”

He stressed the importance of Indians being united in the face of such threats. “When someone points a finger at India, we forget all our differences and stand together like a wall,” he further added.

But Yunus’ caretaker government, according to PTI news agency, distanced itself from Rahman’s statement.

Owaisi also urged international bodies to act against Pakistan. “Pakistan must be placed in the grey list of FATF,” he stated, mentioning the Financial Action Task Force, which tracks worldwide efforts to counter money laundering and terrorism financing.

On Pakistan’s recent missile tests, he stated, “Test any missiles you like, but never forget that India is stronger than you and will always be.”

Intel Warned of Tourist Attack in Srinagar Around April 19, Say Officials

May 3, 2025, 8:19 pm

The intelligence agency (IB) and others put local security personnel in Jammu and Kashmir on alert for the risk of an attack on tourists, but during the Prime Minister’s planned visit to the union territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir on April 19, and in Srinagar, said individuals privy to the development.

HT reports that in retaliation, security was increased in and around Srinagar, including close to some hotels used by tourists, and also around tourist spots like the Dachigam National Park, 22 km from the city.

Attack in Pahalgam After PM’s Visit Cancelled

But the PM Narendra Modi’s visit was cancelled on account of bad weather, and when the terrorists struck, killing 26 people, all men, including 25 tourists, 24 of whom were Hindus in a targeted attack, it was in Pahalgam, 90 km away from Srinagar, and on April 22.

“Nine out of ten times they don’t come to anything but this one proved correct about tourists. The interpretation, which is the trickiest part, got the location wrong,’’ said a senior police officer, confirming that both Army and civilian security officials in Jammu and Kashmir were told to prepare for an attack around the Prime Minister’s visit, at a tourist location near Srinagar.

Weather Forecast Prompted Cancellation of Visit

Four days prior to the PM’s visit, noticing the meteorogical departhment’s forecast of poor weather around April 18-19, the Prime Minister’s Office called off the visit. The PM would have had to travel by chopper to approximately three sectors and poor weather would have ruined all his plans. Even after calling it off, security officials didn’t let their guard and preparedness down.

Security Monitoring Continued Despite Cancellation

Director general of police Nalin Prabhat remained posted in Srinagar for four days, monitoring all spots surrounding Srinagar. On April 22, when the terrorists attacked, Prabhat had arrived in Jammu and had to immediately return. Prabhat remained silent on a request for comment.

Indeed, all officials interviewed confirmed that there was no reference to Pahalgam in any of the intelligence inputs received by them.

Terrorists May Have Reacted to Visit Cancellation

With hindsight, they further explained that now it is evident that once the PM’s visit had been cancelled, the terrorists went into hiding and were waiting for the next moment. They didn’t wait long. Just a day after the cancellation, the visit of US vice president JD Vance which has been understood to be in the pipeline for some time was announced in a statement on April 16.

Failure to Predict Attack in Baisaran

The lapse, officials point out, was the inability to anticipate an attack in Baisaran, which is open throughout the year and only closed during the Amarnath Yatra. “The two local men among the terrorists were the ones who corralled the tourists to one side,’’ one of the officials said. “The shots were fired by the two foreign men. Because there was only one entry and exit controlled by the tickets, that made it difficult for the tourists to escape the attackers.”

As it is now clear that the terrorists were residing there and are still present in the vicinity, the largest blunder was of the local intelligence, the officials added.