‘US Supports India’s Right to Defend Itself’: Rajnath Singh, Pete Hegseth discuss Pahalgam Attack
India’s response to Pahalgam terror attack should avoid regional war: JD Vance
‘Fight not Over, Won’t Spare a Single Terrorist’: Amit Shah’s Strong Message on Pahalgam
Nepali Student Found Dead In Bhubaneswar’s KIIT Hostel, 2nd Such Case in 3 Months
Pakistan Envoy Tells Donald Trump to Settle Kashmir Issue, With A Veiled Nuclear Threat: Report
High alert along Bangladesh border as Pak’s ISI increases footprint: Sources

What Else

Terrorists Scouted 3 Other J&K Sites Before Pahalgam Attack: Sources
Armed to the teeth, familiar with jungle warfare, cloaked in stealth: Terrorists that security forces are up against in J&K
Pakistan Refuses To Accept Its Citizens, Leaves Them Stranded In India
US approves supply of military hardware worth USD 131 million to India
‘Patriotic Gesture’: Pakistan Bans Indian Songs On Radio After Pahalgam Attack
Pakistan’s PM Shehbaz thanks China for ‘endorsing’ Pakistan’s proposal of neutral probe into Pahalgam attack
Any military misadventure by India will be met with swift, resolute, notch-up response: COAS
Fears of attack in Pakistan-administered Kashmir amid acute India tensions
HRCP report highlights rising political repression and violence in PoK and Balochistan
Bangladesh: Won’t get even 5 minutes to escape: Islamists warn Bangladesh govt
Bangladesh: ‘Announce outline for national election’

‘US Supports India’s Right to Defend Itself’: Rajnath Singh, Pete Hegseth discuss Pahalgam Attack

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a telephonic conversation with his US counterpart Pete Hegseth on Thu, during which the latter reiterated the “strong support of the US” in India’s right to defend itself and in its fight against terrorism.
Pakistan Accusations: Rajnath Singh accused Pakistan of having a “history of supporting, training, and funding terrorist organizations” during the call.
“The world can no longer afford to turn a blind eye to terrorism,” Singh told the US Secretary.
“There must be an unequivocal and collective global condemnation of such brutal acts,” he said.
“Today, I spoke with Indian Defence Minister Singh @rajnathsingh to personally extend my deepest condolences for the loss of life in the heinous terrorist attack last week. I offered my strong support. We stand with India and its great people,” Hegseth posted on X.

Global Diplomacy: The call is part of India’s efforts to seek global support and expose Pakistan on the world stage regarding the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives.
US Secretary of State’s Call: Marco Rubio urged both India and Pakistan to de-escalate tensions in separate calls with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Pakistan PM Shahbaz Sharif.
India’s Response: PM Modi has vowed to pursue terrorists and their backers “to the ends of the earth,” giving the armed forces a free hand to choose their response. (more)

India’s response to Pahalgam terror attack should avoid regional war: JD Vance

US Vice President JD Vance has called for calm and restraint from India and cooperation from Pakistan following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.
In an interview with Fox News, Vance expressed hope that India would respond to the attack in a manner that avoids escalating the situation into a broader regional conflict.
“Our hope here is that India responds to this terrorist attack in a way that doesn’t lead to a broader regional conflict,” Vance said
Avoiding Regional Conflict: Vance emphasized the importance of India’s response not leading to a larger conflict in the region.
Pakistan’s Cooperation: He also urged Pakistan to cooperate with India in tracking down militants based in Pakistan, to the extent that they are responsible. (more)

‘Fight not Over, Won’t Spare a Single Terrorist’: Amit Shah’s Strong Message on Pahalgam

Union Home Minister Amit Shah warned terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack that they shouldn’t think they’ve “won the war.”
Shah vowed that every single terrorist will be sought after and punished, and the Modi Govt will uproot terrorism.
He emphasized India’s zero-tolerance approach to terrorism under PM Modi’s leadership.
Shah’s comments came at an event in Assam, where he dedicated a road and unveiled a statue.
PM Modi had earlier vowed to pursue terrorists “to the ends of the earth,” and DM Rajnath Singh had promised a “loud and clear” response to the attack that killed 26 people. (more)
AIMIM’s Owaisi urges ‘enter and stay’ strike on Pak, slams BJP on terror: AIMIM president Asaduddin Owaisi on Thu said the Centre should take decisive action against Pakistan, suggesting that the response should go beyond cross-border strikes.
Speaking to reporters, the Hyderabad MP referred to a resolution passed by the Indian Parliament declaring that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) is an integral part of India. (more)
[The entire political landscape is rallying behind the Govt, demanding decisive action against terrorists and their backers, with implicit pressure on Pakistan to take responsibility.]

Nepali Student Found Dead In Bhubaneswar’s KIIT Hostel, 2^nd Such Case in 3 Months

A 20-year-old Nepali student, Prisha Shah, was found dead in her hostel room at the Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
The police confirmed that Shah, an undergraduate student pursuing her B.Tech, was found hanging from the ceiling fan of her hostel room.
Circumstances Surrounding the Death: The police have not yet ascertained the circumstances.
This incident comes nearly two and a half months after another Nepali student, Prakriti Lamsal, died by suicide at the same institute, reportedly after being blackmailed by a classmate.
Previous Incident and Aftermath: Prakriti Lamsal’s death led to widespread protests among the Nepali student community, who raised concerns about harassment and institutional negligence
The university initially issued suspension notices to over 1,100 Nepali students, instructing them to vacate their campus housing, but later retracted the decision.
The Odisha Higher Education Department summoned KIIT founder Achyuta Samanta for discussions regarding the events surrounding Prakriti’s death.
Investigation and Response: The KIIT authorities have yet to state Prisha Shah’s death.
Police officer confirmed the incident, stating that it appears to be a suicide.
The police are investigating the circumstances surrounding Shah’s death. (more)

Pakistan Envoy Tells Donald Trump to Settle Kashmir Issue, With A Veiled Nuclear Threat: Report

Pakistan’s ambassador to the US, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, has urged President Donald Trump to intervene in the Kashmir dispute to avoid a nuclear crisis.
In an interview with Newsweek, Sheikh called Kashmir the “flashiest flashpoint” in global geopolitics and warned that tensions between the two could escalate into a nuclear conflict.

Nuclear Warning: Sheikh implied that the Kashmir issue is a nuclear flashpoint, requiring US intervention to prevent a crisis.
Kashmir Dispute: Pakistan wants the US to mediate the Kashmir dispute, while India maintains that issues should be resolved bilaterally.
Pakistan’s Stance: Sheikh emphasized that Pakistan seeks peace with dignity and would rather die with dignity than survive with indignity.
Instead of condemning the attack, Pakistan has chosen to issue nuclear threats to India over threats to hold bilateral agreements in abeyance, including a major water sharing treaty (more)

High alert along Bangladesh border as Pak’s ISI increases footprint: Sources

India has put its intelligence agencies and security forces on high alert along the borders with Bangladesh and Myanmar due to escalating tensions with Pakistan.
The move is particularly focused on the Bangladesh border, where Pakistan’s ISI and military officials are reportedly strengthening ties with radical Islamist groups.
These groups have a support base in Indian areas bordering Bangladesh and could be used to create trouble for India in case of hostilities. Key Developments:
Troop Mobilization: Pakistan has started mobilizing its troops along the border with India and has kept its navy on standby.
Unprovoked Firing: Pakistan continues to resort to unprovoked firing along the Line of Control, violating the ceasefire.
India’s Response: PM Modi has granted the military “complete operational freedom” to respond to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. (more)

Terrorists Scouted 3 Other J&K Sites Before Pahalgam Attack: Sources

The Pahalgam attack terrorists were present in Baisaran Valley two days before the incident, according to an arrested Over Ground Worker (OGW).
The terrorists conducted reconnaissance of four locations, including Baisaran Valley, Aru Valley, Betaab Valley, and a local amusement park.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has identified around 20 OGWs and arrested several.
Four OGWs were critical in assisting the terrorists with reconnaissance and logistical support.
The terrorists reached Pahalgam on Apr 15 and conducted reconnaissance of at least 4 locations, including the picturesque Baisaran Valley.
Investigators have traced signals from 2 satellite phones used by the terrorists and are probing communication links between OGWs and members of banned organizations like JeI. (more)

Armed to the teeth, familiar with jungle warfare, cloaked in stealth: Terrorists that security forces are up against in J&K

Security forces in J&K are dealing with a new breed of terrorists, mostly Pakistani nationals, who are trained in jungle warfare and equipped with advanced rifles and communication gadgets.
These terrorists have carried out deadly attacks in the region, spreading terror into mainland Jammu.
Training and Equipment: Trained in jungle warfare, armed with US-made M4 carbines, bulletproof jackets, and steel bullets.
Tactics: Move in small groups, use topography to their advantage, and have adapted to harsh weather conditions.
Communication: Use sophisticated satellite phones or offline devices, making it difficult for security forces to track them.
Planning: Plan attacks in detail, conduct reconnaissance, and prepare escape routes.
Inaccessible Terrain: Dense forests and inaccessible terrain make it difficult for security forces to track and apprehend terrorists.
Limited Human Intelligence: The Gujjar and Bakerwal communities have stopped sharing information, making it harder for security forces to gather intelligence.
Digital Footprint: Terrorists avoid leaving digital footprints, making it challenging for security forces to track them. (more)

Pakistan Refuses To Accept Its Citizens, Leaves Them Stranded In India

The Attari-Wagah border crossing point between India and Pakistan has been completely shut, leaving Pakistani nationals stranded.
Despite India’s extension for Pakistani nationals to leave with proper documentation, Pakistan closed its border.
Two Indian sisters married in Pakistan were denied entry due to the border closure, separating them from their children.
Pakistani nationals who wanted to cross the border were left heartbroken as their country refused to let them re-enter.
The border shutdown follows a terror attack in Kashmir’s Pahalgam that killed 26 people, prompting India to cancel visas for Pakistani nationals.
The Indian govt had allowed Pakistani nationals to return until further notice, but with the border shut, no one from either country can cross over.
On Wed, 125 Pakistani nationals left India, bringing the total to 911 in a week.
15 Indians with Pakistani visas also crossed into Pakistan, raising that number to 23. (more)

US approves supply of military hardware worth USD 131 million to India

The US has approved a $131 million military sale to India, including sea-vision software, remote software, and analytic support to enhance India’s maritime domain awareness.
This decision aligns with the strategic ties between the US and India under the Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness programme.
The readout says that India had requested to buy “sea-vision software, “remote software”, and “analytic support”, besides access to “sea-vision” documentation and other related elements of logistics.
The supplies aim to bolster India’s analytical capabilities and strategic posture.
The development comes amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.
Separately, Turkey denied reports of supplying arms to Pakistan, stating that a Turkish cargo plane landed in Pakistan solely for refueling purposes.
The US move is seen as part of its efforts to strengthen military ties with India, with the Trump administration pushing New Delhi to increase its military procurement from the US. (more)

‘Patriotic Gesture’: Pakistan Bans Indian Songs On Radio After Pahalgam Attack

Pakistani FM radio stations have stopped playing Indian songs amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack.
The Pakistan Broadcasters Association (PBA) halted airing Indian music, including songs by legendary singers like Lata Mangeshkar and Mohammed Rafi.
Information Minister Atta Tarar commended the move, saying it reflects national unity and support for core values during challenging times. (more)

[Neighborhood]

Pakistan’s PM Shehbaz thanks China for ‘endorsing’ Pakistan’s proposal of neutral probe into Pahalgam attack

PM Shehbaz Sharif met with China’s Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, thanking China for supporting Pakistan’s call for a neutral probe into the deadly Pahalgam attack in occupied Kashmir.
Sharif emphasized that India’s actions could distract Pakistan from counterterrorism efforts against militant groups like IS-K, TTP, and BLA operating from Afghanistan.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue: Pakistan’s Deputy PM Ishaq Dar briefed the foreign ministers of South Korea, Somalia, and Slovenia on the evolving situation and urged diplomacy to maintain regional peace.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also spoke with PM Shehbaz and India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, encouraging both countries to de-escalate tensions.
Pakistan-US Relations: Pakistan’s Ambassador to the US, Rizwan Saeed Sheikh, asked President Donald Trump to help ease tensions with India, highlighting the Kashmir issue as a key flashpoint.
Sheikh emphasized the need for a durable solution to the Kashmir dispute to prevent future crises. (more)

Any military misadventure by India will be met with swift, resolute, notch-up response: COAS

Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir warned that any military misadventure by India would be met with a “swift, resolute, and notch-up response.”
The warning comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries following a militant attack in occupied Kashmir.
Pakistan has rejected India’s accusations of cross-border links and called for a neutral probe.
The military has conducted exercises, showcasing its capabilities, and vowed to defend the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Both countries have exchanged fire along the Line of Control, and diplomatic efforts are underway to prevent a possible military confrontation. (more)

Fears of attack in Pakistan-administered Kashmir amid acute India tensions

The tensions between India and Pakistan have intensified after the Pahalgam attack, with both countries exchanging accusations and taking steps to prepare for potential military action.
The Attack and Accusations: The attack in Pahalgam, Indian-administered Kashmir, resulted in the deaths of 26 people.
India holds Pakistan responsible for the attack, while Pakistan denies any involvement and instead claims to have evidence of an imminent Indian military strike.
Pakistan’s Response and Preparations: Pakistan’s Information Minister Attaullah Tarar warned of an Indian attack within 24-36 hours, [nothing happened after that too], leading to precautions being taken in Pakistan-administered Kashmir.
Authorities have shut over 1,000 religious schools as a precautionary measure (more)

HRCP report highlights rising political repression and violence in PoK and Balochistan

The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan’s 2024 report highlights a decline in civic freedoms, worsening law and order, and growing tensions within federalism. Key findings include:
Terrorism-related deaths: Over 2,500 deaths in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan
Vigilante mob killings: At least 24 people killed, some linked to blasphemy accusations
Enforced disappearances: 379 cases reported, with deep concerns over ongoing issues in Balochistan
Police encounters: 4,864 encounters in Sindh and Punjab
Violence against women and children: Honor killings: At least 405 cases
Domestic-related murders: 1,641 cases
Reported rape cases: 4,175 cases
Violence against minors: 1,630 incidents
Political repression: Flags concerns over Pakistan-occupied Kashmir amid mass protests
Election concerns: 2024 elections tainted by allegations of manipulation, allowing undemocratic forces to gain ground through flawed laws.
The HRCP emphasizes addressing violence through legal means and ensuring accountability. (more)

Won’t get even 5 minutes to escape: Islamists warn Bangladesh govt

Islamist parties in Bangladesh are threatening the army-backed interim government of Muhammad Yunus, demanding the abolition of the Women’s Affairs Reform Commission.
The commission’s 433 recommendations aim to overhaul gender-related policies, including doubling parliamentary seats with 300 reserved for women, ensuring equal inheritance rights, and restructuring family laws to promote gender equality.
Key Demands and Threats by Islamist Parties:
Abolish the Commission: Islamist parties want the commission abolished, citing “anti-Islamic” and “Western-inspired” proposals.
New Commission: They demand a new commission comprising “pious, educated, and socially conscious women” who represent the country’s female population.
Warning of Consequences: Mufti Syed Rezaul Karim warned that if the government proceeds with reforms, it “won’t get even five minutes to escape,” referencing the 45 minutes former PM Sheikh Hasina had to leave the country before a mob stormed her residence.
Context and Potential Impact:
Islamist Influence: After Sheikh Hasina’s ouster, Islamist groups have gained space, with the ban on Jamaat-e-Islami lifted and convicted terrorists released.
Opposition to Reforms: Islamists allege that accepting the proposals would legitimize prostitution and undermine women’s values.
Government’s Dilemma: The interim govt faces a delicate balance in navigating these demands while maintaining stability ahead of promised elections in late 2025 or early 2026. (more)

Bangladesh: ‘Announce outline for national election’

BNP Acting Chairman Tarique Rahman has urged the interim government to announce a clear roadmap for the next national election, along with short-term and long-term reform proposals.
He emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, warning that a faction within the govt might try to create conflict between elections and reforms to divide anti-fascist forces.
He stressed that democratic processes are crucial in preventing future fascist regimes and ensuring a government accountable to the people. Key Demands:

Election Roadmap: Announce a clear outline for the upcoming national election
Reforms: Complete necessary reforms and prepare law enforcement and agencies
Accountability: Establish a government accountable to the people, elected directly by the people

Rahman also criticized the interim govt’s decision to allow humanitarian aid to Myanmar’s Rakhine state without public consultation, emphasizing that such decisions should be made by a parliament elected by direct vote. (more)

Top Headlines: ‘US Supports India’s Right to Defend Itself’: Rajnath Singh, Pete Hegseth discuss Pahalgam Attack