Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday flagged off the first batch of 4,890 pilgrims for the annual Amarnath yatra from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu city for their onward journey to the Pahalgam and Baltal base camps in Kashmir.
The 43-day pilgrimage to the cave shrine will begin from twin base camps in Kashmir on Thursday and will conclude on August 11 on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan.
The annual Amarnath Yatra is being organised after a gap of two years due to the Covid pandemic.
Amid chants of 'Bam Bam Bhole' and 'Jai Barfani Baba ki', the pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar base camp here in a convoy of vehicles amid tight security.
Flanked by political leaders and officials, including Jammu Mayor Chander Mohan Gupta, BJP leader Devender Rana and Chief Secretary Dr Arun Kumar Mehta, the Sinha flagged off the convoy of buses and other vehicles carrying pilgrims on their inward journey to the twin base camps in Kashmir.
The first batch of pilgrims left for the cave shrine amid chanting of Vedic mantras.
The Lt Governor prayed for the peace, prosperity and a safe journey of pilgrims.
Marking the beginning of the annual pilgrimage, the first batch left at around 4 am in a cavalcade of 176 light and heavy vehicles, officials said.
The yatra has passed through Udhampur and Ramban districts amid a grand welcome accorded by the top officials district administration led by DCs and SSPs.
"The pilgrimage has begun from Jammu. The convoy, flagged off by the L-G, has left for Kashmir from here," Jammu Mayor Chander Mohan Gupta told reporters.
He said all arrangements have been made to provide comfort to the pilgrims.
In Jammu, Daleep Singh, a devotee from Barmer in Rajasthan, said, "There is no fear, no threat, only unbridled passion to reach the cave shrine quickly and have a glimpse of Lord Shiva." Asha Devi, who is a part of an over 40-member group of pilgrims from Kanpur, said, "We urge people from all over the country to come and pay obeisance at the cave shrine." Multi-tier security arrangements have been put in place in and around the base camps, lodging, registration and token centres with the deployment of over 5,000 security personnel in Jammu city, officials said.
The yatra will commence on June 30 from the traditional 48-km Nunwan route in south Kashmir’s Pahalgam and the 14-km Baltal route in central Kashmir’s Ganderbal.
According to officials, over three lakh pilgrims have registered so far for the annual Amarnath Yatra.
This year, the government has introduced a Radio Frequency Identification to track the movement and well-being of the pilgrims, they said.
"Adequate security measure has been put in place for the base camps and lodging places in Jammu city. Security is a major challenge," Jammu Senior Superintendent of Police Chandan Kohli said.
The police have issued special stickers for vehicles ferrying pilgrims. No vehicle without the sticker will be allowed to proceed towards the cave shrine, officials said.
Over 3.42 lakh pilgrims had paid obeisance at the shrine from July 1 to August 1, 2019, before the government cancelled the pilgrimage midway ahead of the abrogation of Article 370 and bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union territories.

Hindu devotees begin Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage in Kashmir

The annual Amarnath Yatra is being organised after a gap of two years due to the Covid pandemic

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday flagged off the first batch of 4,890 pilgrims for the annual Amarnath yatra from the Bhagwati Nagar base camp in Jammu city for their onward journey to the Pahalgam and Baltal base camps in Kashmir.
The 43-day pilgrimage to the cave shrine will begin from twin base camps in Kashmir on Thursday and will conclude on August 11 on the occasion of Raksha Bandhan.
The annual Amarnath Yatra is being organised after a gap of two years due to the Covid pandemic.
Amid chants of 'Bam Bam Bhole' and 'Jai Barfani Baba ki', the pilgrims left the Bhagwati Nagar base camp here in a convoy of vehicles amid tight security.
Flanked by political leaders and officials, including Jammu Mayor Chander Mohan Gupta, BJP leader Devender Rana and Chief Secretary Dr Arun Kumar Mehta, the Sinha flagged off the convoy of buses and other vehicles carrying pilgrims on their inward journey to the twin base camps in Kashmir.
The first batch of pilgrims left for the cave shrine amid chanting of Vedic mantras.
The Lt Governor prayed for the peace, prosperity and a safe journey of pilgrims.
Marking the beginning of the annual pilgrimage, the first batch left at around 4 am in a cavalcade of 176 light and heavy vehicles, officials said.
The yatra has passed through Udhampur and Ramban districts amid a grand welcome accorded by the top officials district administration led by DCs and SSPs.
"The pilgrimage has begun from Jammu. The convoy, flagged off by the L-G, has left for Kashmir from here," Jammu Mayor Chander Mohan Gupta told reporters.
Also Watch| <a href="https://www.editorji.com/story/now-get-e-darshan-of-rituals-at-amarnath-shrine-1594906747970" target="_blank">Now, get e-darshan of rituals at Amarnath shrine</a>
He said all arrangements have been made to provide comfort to the pilgrims.
In Jammu, Daleep Singh, a devotee from Barmer in Rajasthan, said, "There is no fear, no threat, only unbridled passion to reach the cave shrine quickly and have a glimpse of Lord Shiva." Asha Devi, who is a part of an over 40-member group of pilgrims from Kanpur, said, "We urge people from all over the country to come and pay obeisance at the cave shrine." Multi-tier security arrangements have been put in place in and around the base camps, lodging, registration and token centres with the deployment of over 5,000 security personnel in Jammu city, officials said.
The yatra will commence on June 30 from the traditional 48-km Nunwan route in south Kashmir&rsquo;s Pahalgam and the 14-km Baltal route in central Kashmir&rsquo;s Ganderbal.
According to officials, over three lakh pilgrims have registered so far for the annual Amarnath Yatra.
This year, the government has introduced a Radio Frequency Identification to track the movement and well-being of the pilgrims, they said.
"Adequate security measure has been put in place for the base camps and lodging places in Jammu city. Security is a major challenge," Jammu Senior Superintendent of Police Chandan Kohli said.
The police have issued special stickers for vehicles ferrying pilgrims. No vehicle without the sticker will be allowed to proceed towards the cave shrine, officials said.
Over 3.42 lakh pilgrims had paid obeisance at the shrine from July 1 to August 1, 2019, before the government cancelled the pilgrimage midway ahead of the abrogation of Article 370 and bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union territories.

Udaipur Murder Case: The Home Ministry on Wednesday directed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to take over the investigation of brutal murder of a tailor in Udaipur and probe involvement of any organisation and international links.

Udaipur Murder Case: NIA to take over probe, international links under scanner

Udaipur murder case: NIA to take over probe, international links under scanner

The Home Ministry on Wednesday directed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to take over the investigation of brutal murder of a tailor in Udaipur

Udaipur Murder Case: The Home Ministry on Wednesday directed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to take over the investigation of brutal <a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/udaipur-tailor-received-threats-police-officer-suspended-for-negligence-top-cop-1656466808587" target="_blank">murder of a tailor in Udaipur</a> and probe involvement of any organisation and international links.
The spokesperson of the MHA said on their twitter handle that "MHA has directed the National Investigation Agency (NIA) to take over the investigation of the brutal murder of Shri Kanhaiya Lal Teli committed at <a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/centre-treating-udaipur-killing-as-terror-incident-sends-nia-team-reports-1656438141867" target="_blank">Udaipur</a>, Rajasthan yesterday.
"The involvement of any organisation and international links will be thoroughly investigated."
Also Watch| <a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/udaipur-tailor-received-threats-police-officer-suspended-for-negligence-top-cop-1656466808587" target="_blank">Udaipur tailor received threats, police officer suspended for negligence: top cop</a>

Dissident Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde has announced that party MLAs and allies who were staying with him in Guwahati for the past week will donate ₹51 lakh to Assam Chief Minister's relief fund to help flood-affected people. 
The Sena rebel camp has been staying at the Radisson Blu hotel in Guwahati after they rebelled against Uddhav Thackeray. They arrived in Guwahati last week after staying in Surat for a day. 
Assam govt had received a lot of flak over the rebel camp's stay in Guwahati with opposition leaders accusing the chief minister of ignoring the floods in the state. 

As rebel Sena MLAs leave Guwahati, a donation for Assam flood relief

Dissident Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde has announced that party MLAs and allies who were staying with him in Guwahati for the past week will donate ₹51 lakh to Assam Chief Minister's relief fund to help flood-affected people. 

Assam govt had received a lot of flak over the rebel camp's stay in Guwahati with opposition leaders accusing the chief minister of ignoring the floods in the state.&nbsp;

Dissident Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde has announced that party MLAs and allies who were staying with him in Guwahati for the past week will donate ₹51 lakh to Assam Chief Minister's relief fund to help flood-affected people.&nbsp;
The Sena rebel camp has been staying at the Radisson Blu hotel in Guwahati after they rebelled against Uddhav Thackeray. They arrived in Guwahati last week after staying in Surat for a day.&nbsp;
Assam govt had received a lot of flak over the rebel camp's stay in Guwahati with opposition leaders accusing the chief minister of ignoring the floods in the state.&nbsp;
Also watch: <a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/maharashtra-floor-test-aghadi-govt-move-supreme-court-1656477403037" target="_blank">Maharashtra Floor Test: Aghadi govt moves Supreme Court, hearing at 5pm</a>

Maharashtra Floor Test: Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari has asked the Maharashtra Legislature Secretary to hold a floor test of the Shiv Sena-led government at 11 am on Thursday.

Maharashtra Floor test: Maha Vikas Aghadi government move Supreme Court

Maharashtra floor test: Aghadi govt move Supreme Court

Maharashtra floor test: Aghadi govt to move Supreme Court

Chavan said if the rebels vote against the confidence motion moved by the MVA government, then they stand to be disqualified.

The Supreme Court will hear the petition filed by Shiv Sena against Maharashtra Governor's orders to the Uddhav Thackeray govt to face a&nbsp; <a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/maha-political-crisis-latest-news-uddhav-thackeray-set-to-face-floor-test-tomorrow-reports-1656473829182" target="_blank">floor test on June 30</a> at 5pm on Wednesday.&nbsp;
Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari has asked the Maharashtra Legislature Secretary to hold a floor test of the Shiv Sena-led government at 11 am on Thursday.
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut has termed the Maharashtra Governor's order for a floor test of the Uddhav Thackeray-led government as "unlawful", saying that the Supreme Court is yet to decide on the disqualification of 16 rebel MLAs.
Also Watch| <a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/explained-how-eknath-shinde-camp-plans-to-push-for-floor-test-1656394146143" target="_blank">Explained: how Eknath Shinde camp plans to push for floor test</a>

Finally a vaccine for children as the regulator has given the go ahead for Serum Institute's Covovax for use &nbsp;children aged 7 to 11 years subject to certain conditions, official sources told news agency PTI.&nbsp;
The DCGI's nod came after the subject expert committee on COVID-19 of the CSDCO last week recommended granting emergency use authorisation to Covovax for the age group of 7 to 11 years.
Prakash Kumar Singh, director, Government and Regulatory Affairs at Serum Institute of India (SII) had submitted an application to DCGI in this regard on March 16, official sources had said.
''The SEC last week deliberated on the EUA application of SII and recommended granting emergency use authorisation for Covovax for children aged 7 to 11 years,'' an official source said.
The expert panel, in its last meeting in April, had sought more data from the Pune-based firm over the application.
The DCGI had approved Covovax for restricted use in emergency situations in adults on December 28 and in the 12 to 17 years age group subject to certain conditions on March 9.
The country began inoculating children aged 12-14 years from March 16. The countrywide vaccination drive was rolled out on January 16 last year with healthcare workers getting inoculated in the first phase. Vaccination of frontline workers started from February 2 last year.
The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination commenced on March 1 last year for people over 60 years of age and those aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions.
India launched vaccination for all people aged more than 45 years from April 1 last year. The government then decided to expand its vaccination drive by allowing everyone above 18 years of age to be inoculated against the viral disease from May 1 last year.
The next phase of vaccination commenced from January 3 for adolescents in the age group of 15-18 years.
India began administering precaution doses of vaccines to healthcare and frontline workers and those aged 60 and above with comorbidities from January 10. Precaution dose of COVID-19 vaccines for all aged above 18 years began at private vaccination centres from April 10.

Covid vaccine Covovax gets nod for children 7-11 from Indian regulator: reports

Finally a vaccine for children as the regulator has given the go ahead for Serum Institute's Covovax for use in children aged 7 to 11 years subject to certain conditions, official sources told news agency PTI. 

Vaccine for 7-11 age group gets nod 

The DCGI's nod came after the subject expert committee on COVID-19 of the CSDCO last week recommended granting emergency use authorisation to Covovax for the age group of 7 to 11 years

Finally a vaccine for children as the regulator has given the go ahead for Serum Institute's Covovax for use &nbsp;children aged 7 to 11 years subject to certain conditions, official sources told news agency PTI.&nbsp;
The DCGI's nod came after the subject expert committee on COVID-19 of the CSDCO last week recommended granting emergency use authorisation to Covovax for the age group of 7 to 11 years.
Prakash Kumar Singh, director, Government and Regulatory Affairs at Serum Institute of India (SII) had submitted an application to DCGI in this regard on March 16, official sources had said.
''The SEC last week deliberated on the EUA application of SII and recommended granting emergency use authorisation for Covovax for children aged 7 to 11 years,'' an official source said.
The expert panel, in its last meeting in April, had sought more data from the Pune-based firm over the application.
The DCGI had approved Covovax for restricted use in emergency situations in adults on December 28 and in the 12 to 17 years age group subject to certain conditions on March 9.
The country began inoculating children aged 12-14 years from March 16. The countrywide vaccination drive was rolled out on January 16 last year with healthcare workers getting inoculated in the first phase. Vaccination of frontline workers started from February 2 last year.
The next phase of COVID-19 vaccination commenced on March 1 last year for people over 60 years of age and those aged 45 and above with specified co-morbid conditions.
India launched vaccination for all people aged more than 45 years from April 1 last year. The government then decided to expand its vaccination drive by allowing everyone above 18 years of age to be inoculated against the viral disease from May 1 last year.
The next phase of vaccination commenced from January 3 for adolescents in the age group of 15-18 years.
India began administering precaution doses of vaccines to healthcare and frontline workers and those aged 60 and above with comorbidities from January 10. Precaution dose of COVID-19 vaccines for all aged above 18 years began at private vaccination centres from April 10.

Sixteen people were killed in lightning strikes and thunderstorms across Bihar on Tuesday, as per an official statement. The IMD has also issued a red alert for parts of Bihar for Wednesday. 
Four people died in East Champaran district, three people each were killed in Bhojpur and Saran, two people each in West Champaran and Araraia, and one person each in Banka and Muzaffarpur, it said.
Expressing grief over the deaths, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh for the families of each victim.
In the statement, he also appealed to the people to take precautions during inclement weather and follow the directions issued by the Disaster Management Department.
“Stay at home and stay safe in bad weather,” he said.
On June 20, 17 people died in lightning strikes across the state.
 

Bihar: Lightning strikes and kills 16 in last 24 hours; IMD issues red alert for today

Lightening and thunderstorm turn fatal in Bihar, IMD issues red alert

&ldquo;Stay at home and stay safe in bad weather" CM Nitish Kumar warned residents.&nbsp;

Sixteen people were killed in lightning strikes and thunderstorms across Bihar on Tuesday, as per an official statement. The IMD has also issued a red alert for parts of Bihar for Wednesday.&nbsp;
Four people died in East Champaran district, three people each were killed in Bhojpur and Saran, two people each in West Champaran and Araraia, and one person each in Banka and Muzaffarpur, it said.
Expressing grief over the deaths, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar announced an ex-gratia of Rs 4 lakh for the families of each victim.
In the statement, he also appealed to the people to take precautions during inclement weather and follow the directions issued by the Disaster Management Department.
&ldquo;Stay at home and stay safe in bad weather,&rdquo; he said.
On June 20, 17 people died in lightning strikes across the state.
Also watch: <a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/udaipur-tailor-received-threats-police-officer-suspended-for-negligence-top-cop-1656466808587" target="_blank">Udaipur tailor received threats, police officer suspended for negligence: top cop</a>

Maharashtra Floor Test News: In what could prove to be the finale of the Maharashtra political crisis, Uddhav Thackeray is set to face floor tomorrow on June 30. 

Maharashtra political crisis latest news: Uddhav Thackeray set to face floor test tomorrow: reports

Uddhav Thackeray set to face floor test tomorrow, Sena rebels gear to leave for Mumbai

Maha political crisis latest news

Eknath Shinde was seen visiting Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati as the rebel group gears to return to challenge Uddhav Thackeray's majority on the floor of the house.

Maharashtra Floor Test: In what could prove to be the finale of the Maharashtra political crisis, Uddhav Thackeray is set to face floor tomorrow on June 30. Rebel Sena leader Eknath Shinde confirmed the same as he spoke to media in Guwahati and said he would be travelling to Mumbai on Thursday. Eknath&nbsp;Shinde was seen visiting Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati as the rebel group gears to return to challenge Uddhav Thackeray's majority on the floor of the house.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/explained-how-eknath-shinde-camp-plans-to-push-for-floor-test-1656394146143" target="_blank">Explained: how Eknath Shinde camp plans to push for floor test</a>
On Tuesday night, BJP leader <a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/politics/watch-bjp-leader-devendra-fadnavis-meets-maharashtra-governor-asks-for-floor-test-1656440294323" target="_blank">Devendra Fadnavis</a> urged Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari to direct the crisis-hit Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government to prove its majority in the Assembly. Fadnavis, a former chief minister, claimed the Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress ruling coalition seemed to be in a minority as 39 Sena MLAs, who belong to the rebel faction, have said they do not support the government.

Udaipur Murder Case: An assistant sub-inspector (ASI) of Dhan Mandi police station in Udaipur was on Tuesday suspended for negligence following the murder of a tailor. 

Udaipur Tailor Death: Udaipur tailor received threats, police officer suspended for negligence: top cop

An assistant sub-inspector (ASI) of Dhan Mandi police station in Udaipur has been suspended for negligence following the murder of a tailor. 

Udaipur tailor received threats, police officer suspended for negligence: top cop

Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Hawa Singh Ghumaria said an FIR against the deceased was registered on June 11 for sharing a controversial post on social media and he was arrested.

Udaipur Murder Case: An assistant sub-inspector (ASI) of Dhan Mandi police station in Udaipur was on Tuesday suspended for negligence following the murder of a tailor.&nbsp;
Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order) Hawa Singh Ghumaria said an First information report (FIR) against the deceased was registered on June 11 for sharing a controversial post on social media and he was arrested.
On June 15, while he was on bail, he told police that he was receiving threat calls. The local SHO summoned him, the complainant and some people from both the communities to the police station and settled the matter, he said.
After the murder, ASI Bhanwar Lal posted at Dhan Mandi police station has been suspended for negligence at that time, Inspector General of Police, Udaipur, Hinglaj Dan said.
Also watch: <a href="Udaipur%20killing:%20Centre%20rushes%20NIA%20team,%20internet%20suspended%20across%20Rajasthan">Udaipur killing: Centre rushes NIA team, internet suspended across Rajasthan</a>
It is alleged that the ASI did not pay heed to the concern raised by Kanhaiya Lal regarding the threat calls that he was receiving, he said.
The ADG said that those who had come to mediate are also being interrogated.

Journalists should not be jailed for what they write, tweet and say, a spokesperson for UN chief Antonio Guterres said on Tuesday in response to the arrest of Alt News co-founder Mohammed Zubair in India, asserting that it is important that people be allowed to express themselves freely without the threat of any harassment.
Fact-checking website Alt News co-founder Zubair was arrested by the Delhi Police on Monday for allegedly hurting religious sentiments through one of his tweets posted in 2018.
He was produced before a magistrate, who sent him to police custody for a day.
Responding to the journalist Zubair’s arrest, Spokesman for the Secretary-General Stephane Dujarric said: “In any place around the world, it is very important that people be allowed to express themselves freely, journalists be allowed to express themselves freely and without the threat of any harassment”.
Dujarric was responding to a question at the daily news briefing here on Zubair’s arrest.
“Journalists should not be jailed for what they write, what they tweet and what they say. And that goes for anywhere in the world, including in this room,” Dujarric said in response to another question by a Pakistani journalist on whether he is also calling on Zubair’s release from custody.
Zubair’s arrest came days after the Gujarat authorities arrested Teesta Setalvad on the charges of "criminal conspiracy, forgery and placing false evidence in court to frame innocent people" in the 2002 Gujarat riots.
Also watch: Fact-checker journalist Mohd Zubair sent to police custody for 4 more days
The UN Human Rights agency has voiced concern over the arrest and detention of social activist Setalvad and called for her immediate release.
Setalvad was detained from her house in Juhu area of Mumbai on Saturday afternoon after an FIR was registered against her at the Ahmedabad crime branch based on a complaint lodged by crime branch inspector D B Barad. She was brought to Ahmedabad via road by the Gujarat police squad.

Journalists shouldn't be jailed for what they write, tweet and say: UN spokesperson

Journalists should not be jailed for what they write, tweet and say, a spokesperson for UN chief Antonio Guterres said on Tuesday in response to the arrest of Alt News co-founder Mohammed Zubair in India. 

Fact-checking website Alt News co-founder Zubair was arrested by the Delhi Police on Monday for allegedly hurting religious sentiments through one of his tweets posted in 2018.

Journalists should not be jailed for what they write, tweet and say, a spokesperson for UN chief Antonio Guterres said on Tuesday in response to the arrest of Alt News co-founder Mohammed Zubair in India, asserting that it is important that people be allowed to express themselves freely without the threat of any harassment.
Fact-checking website Alt News co-founder Zubair was arrested by the Delhi Police on Monday for allegedly hurting religious sentiments through one of his tweets posted in 2018.
He was produced before a magistrate, who sent him to police custody for a day.
Responding to the journalist Zubair&rsquo;s arrest, Spokesman for the Secretary-General Stephane Dujarric said: &ldquo;In any place around the world, it is very important that people be allowed to express themselves freely, journalists be allowed to express themselves freely and without the threat of any harassment&rdquo;.
Dujarric was responding to a question at the daily news briefing here on Zubair&rsquo;s arrest.
&ldquo;Journalists should not be jailed for what they write, what they tweet and what they say. And that goes for anywhere in the world, including in this room,&rdquo; Dujarric said in response to another question by a Pakistani journalist on whether he is also calling on Zubair&rsquo;s release from custody.
Zubair&rsquo;s arrest came days after the Gujarat authorities arrested Teesta Setalvad on the charges of "criminal conspiracy, forgery and placing false evidence in court to frame innocent people" in the 2002 Gujarat riots.
Also watch: <a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/fact-checker-journalist-mohd-zubair-sent-to-police-custody-for-4-more-days-1656424871791">Fact-checker journalist Mohd Zubair sent to police custody for 4 more days</a>
The UN Human Rights agency has voiced concern over the arrest and detention of social activist Setalvad and called for her immediate release.
Setalvad was detained from her house in Juhu area of Mumbai on Saturday afternoon after an FIR was registered against her at the Ahmedabad crime branch based on a complaint lodged by crime branch inspector D B Barad. She was brought to Ahmedabad via road by the Gujarat police squad.

A Pakistani terrorist who plotted attacks against India, claimed to have been dead for years, and suddenly arrested and jailed a few days ago.
In an interesting turn of events, terrorist Sajid Majeed Mir has been sentenced to 15 and a half years in prison. He was part of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack plot, and had been declared dead by Pakistani authorities earlier.
An anti-terrorism court in Lahore issued the verdict in early June. Mir had been incarcerated at Lahore's Kot Lakhpat prison since his arrest in April. An embarrassed Islamabad apparently tried to keep the case under wraps with the Counter Terrorism Department of Punjab Police not notifying the conviction.
ALSO WATCH | On Kashmir killings, ex-spy chief's 3 warnings: Pak terror cell, in Srinagar after decades, unknown faces
Sajid Mir is a Lashkar-e-Taiba operative who is on the Most Wanted lists in India and USA. He acted as the 'project manager' of the 26/11 conspiracy, and handled the plotting and reconnaissance operations. Mir recruited David Headley, who had visited India to carry out surveys of the areas which were eventually attacked. Mir is also accused of conspiring to carry out attacks in Denmark.
He now joins other top Lashkar operatives in prison. These include chief of the terror organisation, Hafiz Saeed - the mastermind of the 26/11 attacks. He has been sentenced to 68 years in prison in terror financing cases. However, he is expected to spend very little time in jail as the sentences will run concurrently.
Another Lashkar terrorist in jail is Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi. He acted as the operational commander of the 26/11 conspiracy. He is also in jail under terror financing charges.
ALSO WATCH | Explained: sticky bomb threat in Kashmir; how they are made &amp; used; the Taliban, ISIS link
So, why is Pakistan suddenly taking action against terrorists, after years of letting them roam free?
The country is currently trying to exit the 'grey list' of the Financial Action Task Force, or FATF. Islamabad was placed in the grey list in 2018 for allowing terror financing and money laundering from its territory. In order to exit the grey list, Pakistan has to take action against terrorists. To verify that effective action has truly been taken, FATF officials are slated to visit the country soon.
If Pakistan fails to convince FATF that it is cracking down on terrorist networks, then it might be relegated to the 'black list'. This would lead to imposition of sanctions. Foreign investments and loans will dry up, and trade with other countries will become extremely difficult.
Pakistan is already struggling with economic distress along with political instability.If the FATF decides to penalise Islamabad, it might just push the country into a Sri Lanka-like situation.
But it is also difficult to believe that a country which has encouraged terrorism for many decades, has suddenly decided to clean up its act. So, is the jailing of sinister terrorists justice, or just a show?

Pakistan jails 'dead' terrorist to evade FATF 'black list': Lashkar's 26/11 plotter Sajid Mir behind bars

Terrorist Sajid Majeed Mir has been sentenced to 15.5 in prison.He was part of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack plot, and had been declared dead by Pakistani authorities earlier.

A Pakistani terrorist who plotted attacks against India, claimed to have been dead for years, and suddenly arrested and jailed a few days ago.
In an interesting turn of events, terrorist Sajid Majeed Mir has been sentenced to 15 and a half years in prison. He was part of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack plot, and had been declared dead by Pakistani authorities earlier.
An anti-terrorism court in Lahore issued the verdict in early June. Mir had been incarcerated at Lahore's Kot Lakhpat prison since his arrest in April. An embarrassed Islamabad apparently tried to keep the case under wraps with the Counter Terrorism Department of Punjab Police not notifying the conviction.
ALSO WATCH | <a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/local/on-kashmir-killings-ex-spy-chief-s-3-warnings-pak-terror-cell-in-srinagar-after-decades-unknown-faces-1654279593188" target="_blank">On Kashmir killings, ex-spy chief's 3 warnings: Pak terror cell, in Srinagar after decades, unknown faces</a>
Sajid Mir is a Lashkar-e-Taiba operative who is on the Most Wanted lists in India and USA. He acted as the 'project manager' of the 26/11 conspiracy, and handled the plotting and reconnaissance operations. Mir recruited David Headley, who had visited India to carry out surveys of the areas which were eventually attacked. Mir is also accused of conspiring to carry out attacks in Denmark.
He now joins other top Lashkar operatives in prison. These include chief of the terror organisation, Hafiz Saeed - the mastermind of the 26/11 attacks. He has been sentenced to 68 years in prison in terror financing cases. However, he is expected to spend very little time in jail as the sentences will run concurrently.
Another Lashkar terrorist in jail is Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi. He acted as the operational commander of the 26/11 conspiracy. He is also in jail under terror financing charges.
ALSO WATCH |<a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/local/explained-sticky-bomb-threat-in-kashmir-how-they-are-made-used-the-taliban-isis-link-1654169518794" target="_blank"> Explained: sticky bomb threat in Kashmir; how they are made &amp; used; the Taliban, ISIS link</a>
So, why is Pakistan suddenly taking action against terrorists, after years of letting them roam free?
The country is currently trying to exit the 'grey list' of the Financial Action Task Force, or FATF. Islamabad was placed in the grey list in 2018 for allowing terror financing and money laundering from its territory. In order to exit the grey list, Pakistan has to take action against terrorists. To verify that effective action has truly been taken, FATF officials are slated to visit the country soon.
If Pakistan fails to convince FATF that it is cracking down on terrorist networks, then it might be relegated to the 'black list'. This would lead to imposition of sanctions. Foreign investments and loans will dry up, and trade with other countries will become extremely difficult.
Pakistan is already struggling with economic distress along with political instability. If the FATF decides to penalise Islamabad, it might just push the country into a Sri Lanka-like situation.
But it is also difficult to believe that a country which has encouraged terrorism for many decades, has suddenly decided to clean up its act. So, is the jailing of sinister terrorists justice, or just a show?

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India&rsquo;s economy shrank 7.5 per cent in the fiscal second quarter, after seeing a record contraction of 23.9 per cent in Q1. With the contraction in two successive quarters, India has entered into a technical recession in the first half of the current fiscal. However, the economy substantially narrowed contraction to a single digit in Q2.&nbsp; Meanwhile, the output of core industries shrank more in October, than in September. It shrank 2.5 per cent in October, against a fall of 0.8 per cent in the previous month.

Recession: Indian economy shrinks 7.5% in Q2

India&rsquo;s economy shrank 7.5 per cent in the fiscal second quarter, after seeing a record contraction of 23.9 per cent in Q1. With the contraction in two successive quarters, India has entered into a technical recession in the first half of the current fiscal. However, the economy substantially narrowed contraction to a single digit in Q2.&nbsp; Meanwhile, the output of core industries shrank more in October, than in September. It shrank 2.5 per cent in October, against a fall of 0.8 per cent in the previous month.

((I am resigning part of the sot))944 days after he was sworn in as the chief minister of Maharashtra, Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray's son Uddhav Thackeray stepped down as the chief minister after multiple attempts to quell a rebellion within his own party failed to yeiled results.  In his late night address, Uddhav invoked his reluctance to be the chief minister. He was the first Thackeray to take part in the government. ((SOT I HAD COME IN AN UNEXPECTED MANNER))((TAKE THE SOT ON HIS RELUCTANCE)) The rebellion was led by Eknath Shinde, his one time confidante, who had ostensibly pinned the blame on Sena's alliance with one-time foes the Congress and Nationalist Congress Party. Uddhav had words of praise for the Maha Vikas Aghadi partners, whom he said were willing to support his government from outside just to placate the rebel group which spent days in a hotel in Assam.((SOT CONG NCP READY TO SUPPORT FROM OUTSIDE))His announcement came minutes after the Supreme Court refused to stay Maharashtra Governor's direction to the Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi government to take a floor test in the Assembly on Thursday.((POONI MILEGA BALA SAHEB KE BETE))The rebellion, analysts believe, was partly triggered by the fact that the Hindutava icon's son remained away from the ground, disconnected from the Saniks. And now the ousted head of Saniks is returning back to Dadar, to rebuild a Shiv Sena that his father had co-founded. ((WHAT HE WILL DO NEXT)) 

Uddhav Thackeray steps down as Maharashtra CM

Uddhav Thackeray steps down as Maharashtra CM

 Uddhav Thackeray won't take floor test, quits as Maharashtra CM after SC order

In his late night address, Uddhav invoked his reluctance to be the chief minister. He was the first Thackeray to take part in the government.&nbsp;

((I am resigning part of the sot)) 944 days after he was sworn in as the chief minister of Maharashtra, Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray's son Uddhav Thackeray stepped down as the chief minister after multiple attempts and appeals to quell a rebellion within his own party failed to yeiled results.&nbsp;&nbsp; In his late night address, Uddhav invoked his reluctance to be the chief minister. He was the first Thackeray to take part in the government.&nbsp; ((SOT I HAD COME IN AN UNEXPECTED MANNER)) ((TAKE THE SOT ON HIS RELUCTANCE))&nbsp; The rebellion was led by Eknath Shinde, his one time confidante, who had ostensibly pinned the blame on Sena's alliance with one-time foes the Congress and Nationalist Congress Party. Uddhav had words of praise for the Maha Vikas Aghadi partners, whom he said were willing to support his government from outside just to placate the rebel group which spent days in a hotel in Assam. ((SOT CONG NCP READY TO SUPPORT FROM OUTSIDE)) His announcement came minutes after the Supreme Court refused to stay Maharashtra Governor's direction to the Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi government to take a floor test in the Assembly on Thursday. ((POONI MILEGA BALA SAHEB KE BETE)) The rebellion, analysts believe, was partly triggered by the fact that the Hindutava icon's son remained away from the ground, disconnected from the Saniks. And now the ousted head of Saniks is returning back to Dadar, to Sena Bhavan, to rebuild a Shiv Sena that his father had co-founded.&nbsp; ((WHAT HE WILL DO NEXT))&nbsp;

Days before he was killed by two persons for allegedly insulting Islam, Udaipur tailor Kanhaiya Lal had told police in a written complaint he faced a threat to life by some people who were conducting a "recce" of his shop, officials said Monday.
On June 11, Kanhaiya Lal's neighbour Nazim had filed a case against him over a controversial social media post and he was arrested.
After he was released on bail, he told the police in a written complaint on June 15 he was receiving threat calls from Nazim and others and sought police protection.
However, the officials said, the police mediated between Nazim and Kanhaiya and the matter was settled with Kanhaiya giving in writing that he does not want any further action.
However, within two weeks two men pretending to be customers entered his shop Monday and killed him, with one of them recording the act and posting it on social media, drawing widespread condemnation. They were arrested soon after their confession video went viral.
In his June 15 complaint filed at the Dhan Mandi police station against Nazim and five others, the tailor had alleged they circulated his photo in their community groups on social media with a message that he should be killed if seen anywhere or if he opens the shop.
In the complaint, Kanhaiya had said he was being pressured to not open his shop. "Nazim and five other persons are conducting recce of my shop and not allowing me to open the shop. Five-seven people are doing rounds of my shop in the morning and evening and I have come to know that they will try to kill me as soon as I open the shop," he had said in the complaint.
"Since Nazim and other 4-5 persons have circulated my name and photo in their community group and asked all that this man, if seen anywhere or come to shop, should be killed because he has made a controversial post," he had written in the complaint. He also mentioned that the controversial post was shared on Facebook inadvertently by his son who was playing a game on his mobile phone and that he was not aware of this. He also said he did not know how to operate a phone.

'Recce of my shop, image circulated on groups': murdered tailor's complaint to police

Days before he was killed by two persons, Udaipur tailor Kanhaiya Lal had told police in a written complaint he faced a threat to life by some people who were conducting a "recce" of his shop, officials said Monday.

The tailor had alleged in his complaint that they circulated his photo in their community groups on social media with a message that he should be killed if seen anywhere or if he opens the shop.

Days before he was killed by two persons for allegedly insulting Islam, Udaipur tailor Kanhaiya Lal had told police in a written complaint he faced a threat to life by some people who were conducting a "recce" of his shop, officials said Monday.
On June 11, Kanhaiya Lal's neighbour Nazim had filed a case against him over a controversial social media post and he was arrested.
After he was released on bail, he told the police in a written complaint on June 15 he was receiving threat calls from Nazim and others and sought police protection.
However, the officials said, the police mediated between Nazim and Kanhaiya and the matter was settled with Kanhaiya giving in writing that he does not want any further action.
However, within two weeks two men pretending to be customers entered his shop Monday and killed him, with one of them recording the act and posting it on social media, drawing widespread condemnation. They were arrested soon after their confession video went viral.
ALSO WATCH: <a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/won-t-allow-talibanisation-prominent-muslim-voices-condemn-udaipur-man-s-killing-1656506881813" target="_blank">'Won't allow Talibanisation': prominent Muslim voices condemn Udaipur man's killing</a>
In his June 15 complaint filed at the Dhan Mandi police station against Nazim and five others, the tailor had alleged they circulated his photo in their community groups on social media with a message that he should be killed if seen anywhere or if he opens the shop.
In the complaint, Kanhaiya had said he was being pressured to not open his shop. "Nazim and five other persons are conducting recce of my shop and not allowing me to open the shop. Five-seven people are doing rounds of my shop in the morning and evening and I have come to know that they will try to kill me as soon as I open the shop," he had said in the complaint.
"Since Nazim and other 4-5 persons have circulated my name and photo in their community group and asked all that this man, if seen anywhere or come to shop, should be killed because he has made a controversial post," he had written in the complaint. He also mentioned that the controversial post was shared on Facebook inadvertently by his son who was playing a game on his mobile phone and that he was not aware of this. He also said he did not know how to operate a phone.

Minority Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Wednesday condemned the brutal murder of a tailor in Udaipur and said perpetrators of "Talibani barbarism" are the biggest enemies of both Islam and humanity.
With this Naqvi joined other prominent Muslim voices which have expressed their condemnation over the incident.
Earlier, Asaduddin Owaisi too condemned the gruesome murder in Udaipur. He said there can be no justification for it and that no one can take law into their own hands.
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) issued a press release condemning the Udaipur murder which said, “taking the law into one's own hands is highly condemnable, regrettable and un-Islamic”.
Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind too condemned the incident while noting that the act is crime in the eyes of law, and that Islam does not allow this.
Meanwhile, Zainul Abedin Ali Khan, the Deewan of Ajmer Dargah said the accused were a part of certain radical groups that find a solution only via the path of violence. Muslims of India will never allow talibanisation mindset to surface in our motherland, he added.
Two men with a cleaver murdered a tailor in Udaipur and posted videos online, claiming that they are avenging an insult to Islam.
No community or country can tolerate such barbarism and brutality, Naqvi told reporters.
"We should beware of such elements who want to shatter the strength of India through their nefarious and heinous conspiracies. We have to work united to defeat such evil forces," the senior BJP leader asserted.
Two men, identified as Riaz Akhtari and Ghouse Mohammad, have been arrested for the murder.
In a video clip, Akhtari declared that they had beheaded the man and went on to threaten Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying their knife will get him as well.
Indirectly, the assailants also referred to Nupur Sharma, the BJP leader who was suspended from the party over a controversial remark on Prophet Mohammad.
Kanhaiya Lal, the tailor, was recently arrested by the local police over some remarks made on social media by him.
Lal's killing triggered stray cases of violence in Udaipur and the curfew was clamped in seven police station areas of the city. The curfew remained imposed in seven police station areas of the city on Wednesday and mobile internet services were suspended across all 33 districts of the state, officials said.

'Won't allow Talibanisation': prominent Muslim voices condemn Udaipur man's killing

Indirectly, the assailants also referred to Nupur Sharma, the BJP leader who was suspended from the party over a controversial remark on Prophet Mohammad.

Minority Affairs Minister Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi on Wednesday condemned the brutal murder of a tailor in Udaipur and said perpetrators of "Talibani barbarism" are the biggest enemies of both Islam and humanity.
No community or country can tolerate such barbarism and brutality, Naqvi told reporters.
With this Naqvi joined other prominent Muslim voices who have condemned the incident
AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi too condemned the gruesome murder in Udaipur and said there can be no justification for it. He added that no one can take law into their own hands.
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) issued a press release saying 'taking the law into one's own hands is highly condemnable, regrettable and un-Islamic'.
Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind, a promient socio-religious Islamic organisation, said that the act is crime in the eyes of law, and that Islam does not allow it.&nbsp;
Also Watch| <a href="https://www.editorji.com/india-news/udaipur-tailor-received-threats-police-officer-suspended-for-negligence-top-cop-1656466808587">Udaipur tailor received threats, police officer suspended for negligence: top cop</a>
Meanwhile, Zainul Abedin Ali Khan, the Deewan of Ajmer Dargah said the accused were a part of certain radical groups that find a solution only via the path of violence. 'Muslims of India will never allow talibanisation mindset to surface in our motherland,' he added.
Two men murdered a tailor in Udaipur and posted videos online, claiming that they are avenging an insult to Islam.
Two men, identified as Riaz Akhtari and Ghouse Mohammad, have been arrested for the murder.
Indirectly, the assailants also referred to Nupur Sharma, the BJP leader who was suspended from the party over a controversial remark on Prophet Mohammad.
Kanhaiya Lal, the tailor, was recently arrested by the local police over some remarks made on social media by him.
Lal's killing triggered stray cases of violence in Udaipur and the curfew was clamped in seven police station areas of the city. The curfew remained imposed in seven police station areas of the city on Wednesday and mobile internet services were suspended across all 33 districts of the state, officials said.
(with PTI inputs)

In a bid to regain the Maharashtra chief minister's chair, BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis has reached out to Raj Thackeray, the cousin of the Uddhav Thackeray who rebelled and formed his own party. 
Fadnavis asked Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief's help for the floor test in the Maharashtra Assembly that is scheduled for Thursday, according to news agency ANI. 
Raj Thackeray, who has one MLA in the assembly, has reportedly agreed to support Fadnavis. 
Maharashtra Governor has directed the Uddhav Thackeray-led govt to prove their majority in the floor of the House on Thursday. 
The directions came after former chief minister Devendra Fadnavis met the Governor on Tuesday claiming that the Maha Vikas Aghadi has lost majority and should be asked to face a floor test

To win against Thackeray, ex-CM Fadnavis calls up the rebel Thackeray

In a bid to regain the Maharashtra chief minister's chair, BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis has reached out to Raj Thackeray, the cousin of the Uddhav Thackeray who rebelled and formed his own party. 

Fadnavis asked Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief's help for the floor test in the Maharashtra Assembly that is scheduled for Thursday, according to news agency ANI.&nbsp;

In a bid to regain the Maharashtra chief minister's chair, BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis has reached out to Raj Thackeray, the cousin of the Uddhav Thackeray who rebelled and formed his own party.&nbsp;
Fadnavis asked Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief's help for the floor test in the Maharashtra Assembly that is scheduled for Thursday, according to news agency ANI.&nbsp;
Raj Thackeray, who has one MLA in the assembly, has reportedly agreed to support Fadnavis.&nbsp;
Maharashtra Governor has directed the Uddhav Thackeray-led govt to prove their majority in the floor of the House on Thursday.&nbsp;
The directions came after former chief minister Devendra Fadnavis met the Governor on Tuesday claiming that the Maha Vikas Aghadi has lost majority and should be asked to face a floor test

India on Wednesday dismissed as "completely unwarranted" the remarks by the UN Human Rights office over the arrest of social activist Teesta Setalvad and said these comments "constitute an interference" in the country's independent judicial system.
The UN's Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has voiced concern over the arrest and detention of social activist Setalvad and called for her immediate release.
"#India: We are very concerned by the arrest and detention of #WHRD @TeestaSetalvad and two ex-police officers and call for their immediate release. They must not be persecuted for their activism and solidarity with the victims of the 2002 #GujaratRiots," the UN Human Rights office said in a tweet on Tuesday.
Responding to media queries on the remarks, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "We have seen a comment by OHCHR regarding legal action against Teesta Setalvad and two other persons." "The remarks by OHCHR are completely unwarranted and constitute an interference in India's independent judicial system," he said.
Authorities in India act against violations of law strictly in accordance with established judicial processes, Bagchi asserted.
"Labelling such legal actions as persecution for activism is misleading and unacceptable," he said.
A court in Ahmedabad on Sunday remanded Setalvad and former state director general of police RB Sreekumar in police custody till July 2 in a case of fabricating evidence to frame innocent persons in connection with the 2002 Gujarat riots. Former IPS officer and accused Sanjiv Bhatt, who is serving a life sentence in a custodial death case and is lodged in a jail in Palanpur in Banaskantha district, will be brought to Ahmedabad on a transfer warrant.
Setalvad, Sreekumar and Bhatt are accused of abusing the process of law by conspiring to fabricate evidence with an attempt to frame innocent people for an offence punishable with capital punishment in connection with the 2002 Gujarat riots.

India slams UN Human Rights for comments on action against Teesta Setalvad

Teesta Setalvad and former state director general of police RB Sreekumar in police custody till July 2 in a case of alleged fabricating evidence in connection with the 2002 Gujarat riots.

India on Wednesday dismissed as "completely unwarranted" the remarks by the UN Human Rights office over the arrest of social activist Teesta Setalvad and said these comments "constitute an interference" in the country's independent judicial system.
The UN's Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) has voiced concern over the arrest and detention of social activist Setalvad and called for her immediate release.
"#India: We are very concerned by the arrest and detention of #WHRD @TeestaSetalvad and two ex-police officers and call for their immediate release. They must not be persecuted for their activism and solidarity with the victims of the 2002 #GujaratRiots," the UN Human Rights office said in a tweet on Tuesday.
Responding to media queries on the remarks, Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said, "We have seen a comment by OHCHR regarding legal action against Teesta Setalvad and two other persons." "The remarks by OHCHR are completely unwarranted and constitute an interference in India's independent judicial system," he said.
Authorities in India act against violations of law strictly in accordance with established judicial processes, Bagchi asserted.
"Labelling such legal actions as persecution for activism is misleading and unacceptable," he said.
A court in Ahmedabad on Sunday remanded Setalvad and former state director general of police RB Sreekumar in police custody till July 2 in a case of fabricating evidence to frame innocent persons in connection with the 2002 Gujarat riots. Former IPS officer and accused Sanjiv Bhatt, who is serving a life sentence in a custodial death case and is lodged in a jail in Palanpur in Banaskantha district, will be brought to Ahmedabad on a transfer warrant.
Setalvad, Sreekumar and Bhatt are accused of abusing the process of law by conspiring to fabricate evidence with an attempt to frame innocent people for an offence punishable with capital punishment in connection with the 2002 Gujarat riots.

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