A dairy - recovered by the Vigilance Organization from the house of police officers, during recent raids - has triggered a bitter controversy in the police circles as it carries some 'sensational disclosures' about the killing of at least 22 'innocent persons' in 'fake encounters' carried out 'at the behest of some senior police officers' during the last three-four years. A discrete attempt is being made by those at the helm of affairs in Police Department to hush up the case as the revelations might expose a number of police officers, whose names figured in the diary - maintained by the police officer who was suspended by the Goverenment following Vigilance Organization's from Talab Tillo recovery of the police officers diary along with other items including cash, jewellery, saving certificates and some documents.

The diary maintained by the police official since 1992 carried details of at least 22 'fake encounters' conducted by him and his colleagues 'on the directions of senior police officials' at different places in Jammu District. In all these 'fake encounters' 22 youths, who were dubbed as militants or criminals were eliminated by the police officials. The victims mostly belong to Jammu region. Sources said the diary written by the police officer, mentioned day-to-day account of the killings. It mentioned in detail the directions of senior Police officers (with their names) to eliminate a particular youth or criminal. It also carried the day and date of the task assigned by the police officers, timing and venue of the execution of the task.

As per the diary most of these youths were killed after being arrested by the Police. The concerned official was instrumental in most of these killings. He had managed about half a dozen police constables who used to assist him in the task every time. Names of these constables also figured in the diary.

Of those killed in the fake encounters, about half dozen cases were still pending before the judiciary and Human Rights Commission, Which were approached by families of the victims apprehending foul play behind the killings of their wards. Killing of an advocate in R.S. Pura Sector, which had generated a lot of heat, also figured in the diary as 'custodial killing'. The case of advocate was also pending before the Human Rights Commision.

Officially, no "seizure memo" has so far been issued by the Vigilance Organization. However, an official handout issued by the Government following raids hadn't mentioned about the seizure of diary though it gave a detailed account of other recoveries made from the residential premises of the officer.

Source said the concerned police official hadn't been questioned by the Vigilance Organization so far in connection with the disclosures made in the diary. This indicates that an attempt was being made by the investigating agencies, whose bulk of network comes from police force, to hush up the recovery of diary as this could cause serious storm in the police force as well as official circles.

If the disclosures made in the diary are made public it could lead to a "serious situation" for the police officials who issued direction for "fake encounters" and for the officials who executed the order the sources said, adding every possible attempt is being to made hush up the recovery of diary.

SRINAGAR, June 27: The media has been an every body's Frankenstein here. Every regime tried to make the fourth estate as the first pillar of their future. Nayak's and Khalnayak's who replaced the democratic heroes also made bids to fight their war on the first pages of the newspapers. While resisting all these onslaughts, the microscopic community lost nine of their colleagues since 1989.

The only thing they retained was the self-respect. They lost it today in the broad daylight at the hands of power drunk Kashmir police just under the nose where the nerve centre of the democratic government functions.

It was a Black Friday indeed. This all started when a group of newsman were "mute witness" to the reaction of the police men at the UN Military Observer, Sonawari Office.

After the Friday Prayers concluded, a group of young women came out of the Mosque. Their design was apparently clear. The flag carrying veiled women were shouting slogans and were perhaps going to submit the routine memorandum to the Farenghi Observers as a part of the APHC program. No sooner, did they shout slogans, the cops lost their cool. They jumped and caught all these ladies. Though some of them managed to give police a slip, the cops finally concentrated on two young ladies. It was a frightening sight. All those police hands, bamboo sticks, rifle butts and just two girls. Portions of their garments could not really withstand all those pressures. The women finally landed up in a police jeep, which drove them off the scene. No matter, witnesses were human beings and natives. They had the right to intervene and suggest that all this could be done honorably. They could exercise their right of being the citizens. But they did not.

They know they can hide their "muteness" under the garb of their "professionalism" but what hurt a "responsible" police officer was advice of AFP Correspondent Surinder S Oberoi to his colleagues that (arrest of women) is a good picture, shoot it. A police officer came to him and asked why he (the reporter) was there. Accusing Oberoi of being the "trouble maker" they started what they should not have done - use of bamboo sticks. The target was just the Sikh reporter. They beat him till his turban was out of head. Every kick and sticks stands recorded on Surinder's back in red ink, the blood. The reaction from the community was justified. They could no afford to leave their colleague on the mercy of yesterday's scavengers and that too under the "democratic government".

It was a pilot's decision. "Let us meet the Information Minister", shouted everyone and within minutes, there was a consensus. A group of over 45 scribes and photographers left for the civil secretariat. They were silent. They were not stopped anywhere till they reached the drop-gate. A police officer along with his two deputies prevented them from coming in and when they resisted, his deputy's slap on the cheeks of a young journalist announced the "war". This was followed by the free use of bamboo sticks and soon the tear smoke shells started bursting on the road. Most of the persons fled especially when somebody opened fire - four to seven rounds. Those who tried to be hillocks on the gate and receiving end of the cops. Every action left its imprints on their bodies. So many had their cameras broken with the cracking sounds. Oberoi was again the main target. The cops played with him in such away as if he was a football. His turban was on the road, again, unfortunately.

Within minutes, they regrouped on the main road. Another volley of shells bursted. The result was quick and immediate. Zafar Meraj, who survived an assassination bid last year, fell unconscious. Panic gripped as the tension mounted on the entire road. He was immediately dispatched to the hospital where from he later returned and re-joined his colleagues. The scribes were approached by the city police chief twice and also by the director information. They had a single response -let us communicate our problem to the information minister who happens to be the Chief Minister. The officials flashed the messages. And there came the Jammer-Lead-cavalcade. It abruptly stopped on the road and the Black Cats started jumping out of their vehicle like anything. There were guns, guns and guns all around the furious Chief Minister.

No, I do not need security," Peechay Hatou. Mujay Marne Do. Yehan high handedness hai...", shouted Farooq Abdullah. He grabbed quite a few scribes and said - No, come with me, not here. And they all started for the civil secretariat. Leave them ...do not stop them .. he directed the security men. Nobody was stopped. It was a grave situation. All the cops were looking either red or pale. Nobody was in his senses. There was disbelief and disbelief, everywhere. When the newsmen started clicking the unprecedented action of the flamboyant Chief Minister, he said .. do not prevent them, let them record it, they have to send it to Pakistan. "Kya Houwa tha ?" , an officer inquired from a reporter. "Saat Round Chalayay Gayy", he responded. "

Tum Bees Likh Lou na", commented the Cheif Minister. He asked the security to open the gate from the main entrance. Security surrendered. The secretariat employes who were on their way home, were watching it with utter disbelief. Then every body surrendered their accridetion cards in protest.

"Home minister threaten people (Kashmiri) with large-scale bloodshed". It is not uncommon for those in position of power and authority to frequently demonstrate their arrogance of power. It is more so in the case of small men occupying high positions.Mr.Ali Sagar, junior home minister in Dr. Farooq`s government, who was elected to the assembly in a dubious electoral exercise, is no exception.

Ever since he has assumed the office after eight year of hybernation, having migrated from the valley. Mr sagar has not only being displaying his bad temper, quarreling even with his own colleagues in the legislature and trying to humiliate senior bureaucrats, but has also been indulging in highly irresponsible utterances. Whenever this high profile junior minister, called as Doordarshn (Indian T.V) - due to his over exposure on the small screen, speaks he tends to put his foot in his mouth. The latest is his reported address at Wakoora in The Ganderbal to a gathering where the security men protecting him outnumbered the audience in which he lashed out at Hurryiat and militant leaders. He is free to express his views and even attack his political opponents, adversaries. Mr Sagar, or any one else, is also within his rights to condemn bloodshed and castigate the militant and secessionist leaders. But while doing so he need not loose his mental balance. His threat that "THOUSANDS OF BATTAMALOOS will be repeated", while reminding his listeners of the same utterance of his mentor Dr Farooq a few year ago, is not only provocative but highly irresponsible. There was mass killing and large scale destruction in Battamaloo in the wake of the infiltration of chords of armed Pakistani guerillas in 1965. That indeed was a sad chapter in The Kashmir history. Such gory incidents along with the massive riggings in elections contributed in no small measure to the prolonged militancy and alienation of the people in the valley. At a time when there was need to apply the healing touch it does not behove small men like Sagar, or any other in authority to threaten the people with similar large-scale bloodshed. This is like declaring war against the people. Mr Sagar is free to settle scores with secessionist or militant leaders, some of whom were once his allies. He, like a newly convert or other ex-militants, is also free to act like a super-patriot. But his talking of mass destruction and large scale bloodshed by reminding of Battamaloo carnage of 1965 is height of irresponsibility. It is time for Dr Farooq to bridle his unbridled junior in the home ministry before his indiscreet utterances him further embarrassment and compound the alienation of the people from the national mainstream.

Srinagar, July 10: Thousands of people came out on streets today in Bemina housing colony to protest what they called custodial killing of Bilal Masjid Committee president Mohammad Amin Khan. The people raised anti-government and pro-freedom slogans. According to eyewitnesses the forces barged into the house of Mohammad Amin Khan during the night intervening, July 4/5, ransacked the house, tortured Mohmmad Amin and misbehaved with the womenfolk. Amin was critically injured and was removed to Soura Medical Institute, early in the morning next day, the reports said. The reports added that Mohmmad Amin expired in the hospital early this morning.

Meanwhile a Hurriyat delegation comprising Abdul Gani Lone, Qazi Ahadullah and Javid Ahmad Mir called on the bereaved family and expressed solidarity. The Hurriyat leaders strongly condemned the killing.

Srinagar 11 July: The entire locality of Bemina today observed a complete strike for the second today to mourn and protest the death of senior citizen alleged after being beaten by the personal of Task Force.

All the shops remained closed today for the scond day running in Bemina in protest against the death one Mohmmad Amin Khan, 45. The resident of locality held in mourning meeting at the residence of Amin Khan. Those present at Khan's house vehemently condemned the killing of Mr Khan, who was running his vehicle-repairing workshop at Batmaloo. They expressed concern over the alleged growing atrocities of the security forces in Bemina and its adjoining localities. Some youth poured on to the streets of Bemina today and stopped the traffic. They were however persuaded by the elders to remove the barricades as it caused problems for the general masses who use the road.

The residents of Bemina locality of Srinagar have threatened to stage mass migration from the locality if security forces continue with their "repressive campaign". The threat came today following the death of a resident, who was tortured by the security forces inside his house few days back.

Protests rocked Bemina yesterday morning after people came to know about the death of Amin, who was beaten to pulp, as personnel of Kashmir Police Task Force on the intervening night of July 4 and 5. The entire family was beaten up and harassed, alleged the family members. Amin was beaten with rifle butts and kicks on his head, leading to a serious head injury. He was removed to Soura Medical Institute, where he was operated upon by the leading surgeons of the state and kept under observation in intensive care unit of the well- equipped institute. Amin succumbed in the early hours yesterday despite desperate bids by the doctors to save him. Doctors said Amin had been beaten ruthlessly and there were marks of violence all over his body. His head was made the worst target and beating had caused an in tense internal hemorrhage.

The residents have threatened that they would stage a mass exodus from the locality if government fails to bring an end to their miseries allegedly at the hands of Task Force and pro-government militants. The residents said that even when Khan was in the hospital the Task Force personal raided his house again and beat-up all the inmates, including Amin Khan's son, Bilal Khan. Bilal was given necessary medical treatment by the residents. Even Imam Sahib of local Mosque, Masjid-e-Bilal was beaten up injured. The said imam lives with Khan's family. Residents have send written representations to all those who matter in Kashmir, and urged them to bring an end to the atrocities being perpetuated in Bemina locality.

Honourable justice A. Mir has directed investigating officer Mr Abdul Qayom D.S.P. Shergir Police station to proceed along with other members of investigating team to Pune on July 17, 1997, so that arrest of the accused Army Officer K.C. is done. Hon'ble Justice said that Katoch c/o G.S. (S.O) head quarters southern command Pune, Court said that army authorities will provide assistance to facilitate expeditious conclusion of investigation in F.I.R. No. 17/90 regarding the custodial disappearance of Javid Ahmad Ahanger R/o Dhobi Mohalla, Batamaloo, Srinagar. Custodial disappearance of Javid Ahmad Ahanger has reached to its climax only because of patient struggle of his mother to trace her son. She has been pursing this case for the past seven years.

Javid Ahmad Ahanger was arrested 17-08-1990 and is not traceable. Besides K.C. Katoch other two accused officers are N.S.G. Captain Dinesh Sharma and Major S.N. Gupta have already surrendered before army custody. The case will be listed again. Custodial disappearance of Javid Ahmad Ahanger is decided by the court this year would be first of its kind in Jammu and Kashmir in the long list of custodial disappearance.

Some more cases of disappearance after the arrest by different security agencies have been ordered to investigate. Among them one Mohd Ashraf Gandroo s/o Ab Razak R/o Banderpora district Badgam arrested 24 September, 1991, at Battmaloo. His investigation report was submitted today. It was confirmed that he disappeared after the arrest. According to report he was arrested along with Zahoor Ahmed and Mohmmed Sultan but both were released in Budgam while as Mohad Ashraf is absent from that date. Learned Justice Mr Khucly today directed to IGP CRPF to cooperate with the investigative team.

More major Rathoor of BSF was today brought to Srinagar today. He was directed to produce result before investigative agency. Sha Nagin is the investigative officer. One more person Bashir Ahamad Wani of Hygam, Sopore, was arrested 6 September 1995, is still absent. The Govt. in his writ has denied his arrest. CJM of Sopore was appointed as an investigation officer and was directed to submit report within six months. One more case was filled by Mrs Mehtab R/o Kupwara in the High Court about her husband who was arrested but administration denied his arrest. The High Court appointed Dist. CJM Kupwara as investigation officer who in his report confirmed his arrest on the recommendation of Govt. Prosecuter, the case has ordered to re-investigate.

Peter Pike (Labour) asked the Minister of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Tony Lloyd that as both India and Pakistan who value their membership of the Commonwealth very much and as it is the 50^th anniversary of their independence and the 50th year of the Kashmir problem, does he believe that the Commonwealth could have a role in trying to help resolve that problem.

"As we have made very clear, the government are available to act to bring about a resolution of that, long enduring conflict. The major parties of the conflict are not only the people of Kashmir. Who are undoubtedly the victims, but the government of India and Pakistan. The British government and indeed, the Commonwealth can operate only within a framework established by those two nations. Fatchett while replying to a question, of Mr Happell, as to whether he was aware of the reports that the India authorities were in the possession of audio tapes that could shed some light on the motives and identity of the people who have taken British hostages, said "we have had close relations with both India and Pakistani Governments on the hostage question. I am sorry to say that we have no further progress, but I can give the families of the hostages every assurance that we shall continue to work and activity until we find the hostages".

Srinagar, July 15: Shopkeepers in Madina Chowk observed shut down today in protest against the arrest of one of the shopkeepers of the area by the Special Operation Group (SGO) of J&K Police this afternoon. According to reports, a shopkeeper of the area identified as Kurshid Ahmad was arrested by (SGO) personal this afternoon. Soon after the incident the shopkeepers of the area pulled down the shutter of their shops and held a protest dharna. They were raising slogans against the SGO personnel and were demanding the release of Kurshid. The police personnel lobbed tear gas shells and resorted to lathi charge to disperse the agitated shopkeepers. Five persons were injured in the police action.

Srinagar, 18 July, 1997

Protest demonstrations were held in Ratnipora, Pulwama Dist. west of Kashmir against the arrest of a brother and sister by the Indian army camping in the village. Reportedly a boy, Mohamad Ayub and his sister Dilsada were picked up by the army camp Ratnipora on July 17 and their whereabouts were not being disclosed by the troops.

The STF have eliminated virtually the entire top leadership, this was confirmed in a press conference at Police control Room (PCR) this afternoon by DGP Mr. Jagat an IPS of Punjab cadre. Out of 35 to 40 top, STF have eliminated 90 to 95% of these militants. In Jammu alone, over sixteen militants were killed in different encounters. Replying a question he said the Thanas were strengthened and police provided all requisite facilities. Two Battalions of IRP were raised last year .Two more will be raised this year. The government is launching a special drive to step up manpower to an additional 9,000.In addition 4,000 Special police officers would be appointed for manning the border areas. when comments were sought on Human rights violations cases in the valley, he said allegation were being leveled to tarnish the images of forces. It may be mentioned here that Amnesty International criticised him for his attitude of elimination. Ends

Indian Forces today handed over a dead body of Bashir Ahmad Sofi to Sopore Hospital. After the postmortem, the dead body was handed over to relatives. He was arrested several days before, and 21-20 July he was brought to Haygam, officials claim that he was killed in encounter, while locals strongly refuted the charged said that he was killed in custody through Torture. Locals have strongly reacted over this incident. Indian Army General on Valley visit. Present army chief of the staff Gn.Shanker Rao Choudry has reached Srinagar on two day visit. It may be mentioned he was recently here. Political circles are taking his visit very serious.

All Parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) senior leaders including Sayed Ali Shah Geelani, Abdul Gani Lone, Mohammad Yasin Malik, Javaid Ahmad Mir and hulam Mohammad visited Nowshehra today.

In a statement issued here today a spokesman of the APHC has said that the leaders visited the families whose houses were destroyed by the forces yesterday. Hurriyat leaders have strongly condemned the excesses committed against the locals by the forces. The statement further said that the forces and their agents have let lose a reign of terror in Soibugh Badgam.

Betraying the faith and displaying worst kind of hooliganism. Some pilgrims to Amarnath cave while on their way to the holy cave, looted the food stall established by J&K Tourism Development Corporation at Panjtarni on Saturday, said reports reaching here. Ironically the hooligans indulged in loot and plunder while raising religious slogans like Jai Bajrangbali, Jai Bholay Nay. It looked as if the hooligans were performing a Dharmyadh and in the name of yatra they brought a bad name to Yatris, commented one Kidar Nath Sahini, a businessman from Amballa while narrating the episode. It would be in place to mention that the JKTDC had established the food stall where from food was made available at cost price. Sources in TDC confirmed the report.

The Greater Kashmir reporter for Pulwama Ayub Javed and news agent Rauf Khan were subjected to harassment by the STF personnel when they were on their professional duties on July 19 in Gangoo area. A report was filed with the police station Pulwana.

A foreigner has been relieved of cash and valuables in the house boat where he was staying at Shilwat, Sumbal in district Baramulla, last night. He lodged an FIR with the Police Station Sumbal Regarding the incident Cash amounting to Rs 5000, a still camera costing 20,000, clothes and important documents were taken away from him. It may be mentioned that the whole area is covered by BSF and renegades.

Contempt proceedings are being initiated against the Information department as editor-in-chief of an Urdu daily, Ghulam Nabi Shaida has prayed before the court through his council that information department should be punished for not implementing the orders of the honorable court regarding the fair distribution of advertisements to all newspapers of Jammu and Kashmir. The information came to the light recently when it was revealed that 70% were given to the Jammu that too a particular English paper (pro India) while only 20-25 % were given to whole Kashmir.

Entire Nowshehra area remained under security siege for the second consecutive day today following a fierce encounter on Sunday in which three foreigners and army officer were killed. Reports said that cordon and search operation was conducted by the army for the second consecutive day after the encounter as they want to sanitize the area.

Reports said that army during the cordon and search operation conducted many identification parades. Reports said that some suspects were questioned and few of them were arrested also.

Residents alleged that they were roughed up by the Army Jawans during the searches and said that their behavior was rude especially with the employees of the area.

According to the reports reaching here from Baramulla, an army camp stationed at village Kreeri of district Baramulla has created a region of terror throughout the area and the adjoining village. It is in place to mention here that some camp had manhandled Imam Jamia Masjid Kreeri Mr. Habibullah Bukhari a few days back. Reports reaching here say that the whole area is at present tension gripped. Half of the villagers mostly youth have migrated from the village due to the threat of the major who is in charge of the aforesaid camp.

A grenade hurled by an unknown gunman towards the camp, which missed the target blasted on the road added fuel to the fire. Army immediately cordoned off the area and manhandled the innocent masses, beating them. Dozens of the injured villagers which include Mr ND Zargar, Shafat Bukhari, Rayaz Ahmed, Nisar Ahmed, Hafizullah Ayoub Ahamad, Abdul Hamid Sofi soon have been rushed to SMHS hospital Srinagar. Night curfew commencing from 6 p.m. in the evening to 6 am in the morning has been imposed in the whole area.

Two persons namely Mustaq Mir and Ab.Khaliq shiekh R/o Khandi Hanwara who are on payrole of Army, are involve in bomb blast on civilian in Kupwara Bus stand in which 13 people were injured. Rashtria Rifles 24 confirmed it. It is worth to mention here that govt. accused the mujahid`s hand in it.

Srinagar, July 22: SP Baramulla today pleaded before the court that the police will take steps for obtaining sanction to launch prosecution against a BSF official accused of a murder in custody. The case has already been investigated and the investigations have completed, he informed the court of Justice A M Mir.

Muneer Khan, SP Baramulla appeared in the case of Bashir Ahmad Mir of Khawajabagh Baramulla who was arrested by 141 Bn BSF headed by Puran Singh during the intervening night of August 19-20, last year. Mir's corpse was fished out of Jhelum at Gantmulla on August 22. The postmortem has already established the death by severe damage to lungs and other multiple injuries. The BSF official Puran Singh was identified as accused by the Subsequent police investigations.

In the custodial death of Mohammad Abdullah of Raipora, Kupwara, Justice Mir today granted a fortnight time to the standing counsel for Union of India to file the objections. Abdullah was arrested by 16-RR on March 22, 1994 days after his son's arrest by the same unit. After the latter was freed eleven days later, he revealed that his father died due to torture in custody. A case was registered by police and the investigating officer was present in the court along with the case file. He was directed to proceed ahead. In another case Justice Mir quashed the detention order of Fahadullah, a Pakistan national as the detention period had already expired. Justice Mir directed Police to give evidence against the Indian Forces.

An 80 years old Mohammad Rangrez was arrested by the security forces two days back from Sopore. His relatives told Grater Kashmir that he was badly tortured and was released in critical condition today.

Today a guy with handcuffed and totally nacked was seen outside Torture Camp of Humhama Dist Budgam, eyewitnesses says he was 30 year old, with his face burnt due to torture by force.

New Delhi, BSF DG Mr Ashoke Tandon in an interview expressed that 240 surrendered militants were chosen for this battalion.

The superintendent of Police South, Mr. Mubarik Ahmad Ganai, has been transferred and posted as SP Police district Ganderbal. Vijay Sing Samiyal, SDPO Nehru Park will be the in charge SP South. It may be mentioned here that journalists were demanding action against all those Police personnel who were involved in the beating of the journalists covering the APHC march towards UNMO's office at Gupkar last month. The District SP Ganderbal, Aajadul Mujtuba, has been transfered and posted as Deputy Commander, India Reserve Police (IRP) 4th Batallion Jammu. Bashir Ahamad Masoodi, who was suspended in the wake of Banihal Avalanche tragedy has been reinstated and posted as SDPO Nehru Park. It may be mentioned here that Mr. Masoodi was DSP Traffic when the Banihal avalanche tragedy claimed over 60 people. The Commission held traffic authorities responsible for the Traffic mismanagement.

Meanwhile Mr Abdul Aziz Khan who retried as SP Security in 1995 has been re-employed and posted as SP Security SKIMS and other hospitals. Mr B B Gupta who retired as SP in 1992 has also been re-employed.

All parties Hurriyat Conference (APHC) has said that Indian government has adopted an anti-Muslim policy in Kashmir and the Muslims here are not allowed to perform their religious duties but at the same time crors of rupees are being spent from the state exchequer on the smooth conduct of Amar Nath Yatre.

In a statement issued here today a spokesmen of Hurriyat has said that its leaders were not even allowed to visit Hazratbal shrine to have a glimpse of the holy relic of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH). The spokesman said that Hurriet will fight these anti-Muslim and communal moves of India which has exposed its so-called claims of secularism. The spokesman said that as per program Hurriyat leaders will visit Hazratbal shrine on the following Friday to have a glimpse of the holy relic there. APHC has appealed the people to visit Hazratbal shrine in a peaceful way to express unity and solidarity with the movement.

In The Indian held Kashmir a young girl has been admitted in the hospital in a critical condition. She has alleged the Indian security forces of torturing her, reports BBC. According to details the young girl named Sajja was admitted in S M S Hospital Srinagar in a critical condition on Wednesday evening. The girl who belongs to Budgam has been admitted in the Emergency Ward of the hospital. The girl told the reporters that six member of Indian army entered her house and asked other family members to sit in another room. Then they tortured her badly. The girl says that two of them were not in uniform. It is the second incident within a week time, which speaks that the Indian forces have stepped up violence against the womenfolk in IHK to quell the freedom struggle of the Kashmiris. On 31 July 97 a woman was extra judicially killed during the special Task Force's raid. They, in Masoma area of Srinagar during late night on 39 July 97, entered a house and interrogated a twenty year old girl for three hours, during which she was badly tortured. This girl told journalists on Thursday morning that the policemen gave her electric shocks and also took her to river bank and dipped her into water many times. The police refused to let her go to hospital. After quite some time, when the woman was taken to hospital, the doctors declared her dead.

"There are 51 mine-fields near LoC and in every filed there are a minimum of 100 land mines," said the colonel. However, he said that these mines wee laid during 1948, 1965 and 1971. "Later in 1991 more mines were laid to protect the frontiers, "he added. The officer had no idea of the total number of traps laid near the line that divides Kashmir.

According to sources the Indian forces have mined a particular stretch in Rajwar foothills near northern township of Handwara to curtail movements of guerrillas. Though no causality has been reported yet form the region, the locals alleged that farmers in the area have not been able to cultivate their fields for fear of being killed.

Recently two persons from Karnah Hamid (20) and Zakir Hussain (12) had their limbs blown off while passing through their fields. The district administration in Kupwara in its annual budget has recently earmarked Rs. one lakh to provide light-weight artificial legs to the people rendered crippled by the buried mines.

SRINAGAR, IHK, August 9 (KNR) - After Angola and Afghanistan the Held Jammu and Kashmir is fast turning another burial ground for people killed and maimed by thousands of anti-personnel mines hidden all along the area near Line of Control (LoC). According to reports atleast 25 persons have lost their limbs in landmine explosions in Karnah belt of northern district of Kupwara during last one year. A senior Indian Army officer Col. G. K. Reddy revealed on Friday that atleast 5,000 mines stand buried in just a 12-kms stretch near LoC.

"There are 51 minefields near LoC and in every filed there are a minimum of 100 land mines," said the colonel. However, he said that these mines wee laid during 1948, 1965 and 1971. "Later in 1991 more mines were laid to protect the frontiers, "he added. The officer had no idea of the total number of traps laid near the line that divides Kashmir. According to sources the Indian forces have mined a particular stretch in Rajwar foothills near northern township of Handwara to curtail movements of guerrillas. Though no causality has been reported yet form the region, the locals alleged that farmers in the area have not been able to cultivate their fields for fear of being killed.

Recently two persons from Karnah Hamid (20) and Zakir Hussain (12) had their limbs blown off while passing through their fields. The district administration in Kupwara in its annual budget has recently earmarked Rs. one lakh to provide light-weight artificial legs to the people rendered crippled by the buried mines.

SITUATION UPDATE

Srinagar: At least 15 persons including eight militants, two security personnel and five Army-helpers were killed in the ongoing violence across the Held Jammu and Kashmir since Friday evening.

Reports reaching from southern district of Anantnag said the five dead bodies were recovered in Fatehgadh village in a pond. Initial reports suggest that the deceased have been identified and were killed by the forces after taken into custody. Police spokesman said in Srinagar that an activist was killed in an encounter with the Indian forces at Sangam in Srinagar city. Four activists were reported killed in another encounter at Sonapind near LoC. Neither of the deceased has been identified. Two more activists were killed in the neighboring village of Srinagar.

Two soldiers identified as Naik Mohan Bahadur and Inder Kumar were killed in an ambush in Budnambal forests in Kupwara district during the intervening night of August 7 and 8. An officer of the rank of Major has sustained injuries.

Some unidentified gunmen shot at one Khurshhed Ahmad of Fatehpor in Annatnag. In Paddatch, the outskirts of the capital city, the death toll in the Thursday's 25-long encounter has touched six. These include four activists and two soldiers. Harkatal Ansar has claimed the responsibility of the long gunbattle. A spokesman of APHC claimed that four persons killed by the forces in Kulangam in Kupwara on August 6 were unarmed civilians. The official spokesman had described these as armed activists. He said that the forces after encounter caught hold of two young students Mohammad Afzal (13) and Ghulam Hassan Bhat (16). They tied their legs and crushed them under a tractor.

The spokesman said Afzal's father Jabbar Baig has lost his mental balance after the gruesome incident. He also said the forces have made the lives of people in the Padgampora village in Pulwama district miserable after a recent IED explosion. (ends)

Jubilee basing a doctor's try with destiny and jackboot, GK

Srinagar, Aug 22

A leading cardiologist of City is right now nursing his own broken ribs. His tryst with destiny materialised at the exact hour when Prime Minister l K Gujral was addressing the world to celebrate India's half century as the largest secular democracy on earth. The doctor and his family are incommunicado ever since the traumatic experience on the morning of August 15. Greater Kashmir tried to reach any number of the family for a confirmation of reports received from their neighbors in a posh down town locality. It is believed that they are too terrorised by the incident to speak up and get another taste of the Golden Jubilee bashing. According to the neighbors of the doctor, whose father has, been a leading Ophthalmologist of Kashmir and his medico wife, daughter of a former Prime Minister of state, they saw him being pulled by the hair and dragged all around the sprawling premises of their home. He was severely beaten up and then literally trampled under jackboot. He was even threatened with being shot, before one of the tormentors decided to spare his life on the 'Shubh' occasion of country's Independence Day.

The GK was able to piece together the details of the incident from neighbors who witnessed the gory drama from their attics on a day when Kashmir was like a ghost valley. The doctor was called out with yells of Sala, Pakistani etc. The wrath was occasioned by the presence of a rag of black color on a cherry tree in the doctor's premises. This was taken as assign of defiance on a day when tricolour should have been fluttering all around. What had actually happened was that during the cherry season the rag had been put to scare away birds. The plea of the doctor - the rag was showing signs of weathering and that a rope was still tied to the Canister dangling along it as a proof of his innocence, did not work. He escaped only with a bag full of incentives, a bruised body and a broken rib. Even his ailing parents received choicest abuses. The neighbors also saw the doctor being forced into writing some thing r' a sheet of paper. It could not be confirmed as to what he was made to write but it is felt that this was 'confession' note for future use.

Reports from Bandipora said that in Dachigam area, three months back, a Ghat Munshi was arrested by security forces and since then he is missing in the custody. The alleged custodial disappearance of Ali Mohamamad Mir, an employee of Food and Supplies department has made his family members and relatives apprehensive about this welfare. He was picked by 14 RR of Army from his house according to FIR lodged by his family members in the police station of the concerned area. Army has been denying his arrest and his subsequent custodial disappearance. But witness and his family members insists that they have appealed the authorities concerned to look into the matter at earliest.

THURSDAY AUGUST 21, 1997

THE BUDGET for conducting counter-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir is seen to be stretching beyond all discernible limits.

Take for instance, the fresh economic package, being prepared by the Home Mininisty. After paving the State Government Rs 1.550 crore to clear the budget deficit, Rs 235' crore to hold elections last year and waiving of loans of less-than Rs 50,000, the ministry is now preparing a package for the State which includes drastic reduction in the interest rates on loans of more than Rs 50,000 and extending the repayment schedule,. The fresh exercise would cost the exchequer Rs 1,000 crore this year. The Home Ministry has entrusted the job of drawing up the plan to the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) which, incidentally, had proposed a package of Rs 1,600 crore and was told to make an objective assessment.

This package is in addition to the Rs 100 crore doled out early this year for waving off loans of Rs 50,000 and less taken from nationalised banks and local financial institutions. A smaller amount will be allocated for the purpose next year, officials said.

Despite such massive financial aid, officials pointed out, the State Government has been asking for more -- it wanted additional funds to write off agricultural loans and a hike in funds for security operations. Both the demands have been rejected by the Home Ministry. In fact, Home Ministry officials said they would be looking for ways to reduce the money spent on security operations in the State. The Farooq Abdullah Government has asked for Rs 326 crore for 1997. The Ministry officials rind the demand illogical as the total expenditure on security during last year's elections did not exceed Rs 235 crore. Interestingly, one of the reasons cited by the,J&K Chief Secretary in demanding extra money for security is the rent arrears running into Rs 50 crore accrued on more than 700 houses occupied by security personnel. Most of these houses were abandoned by Kashmiri Pandits who fled the Valley in the wake of militancy.

Officials said while the State Government has been pushing hard for extra funds to clear the rent arrears; it has also asked the security forces to vacate the premises.

At present, nearly 2.5 lakh military and paramilitary personnel are, camping in Kashmir. Officials said the State Government has also been side-stepping the Centre on certain issues. For instance, the Ministry had recently asked the State to return 700 bullet-proof cars sent for conducting the elections so that they could be sent to the North East. But instead of returning the custom-designed cars, the State has demanded another 250 such cars for bureaucrats and certain private individuals.

Dr. Karan Singh has, according to BBC, resigned from the membership of the committee formed in the IHK for the restoration of autonomy. His resignation, as pointed out by BBC will be helpful for the views of the Hindu Majority Jammu area people who oppose the autonomy. Dr. Farooq Abdullah had formed seven member Committee for taking steps to restore autonomy in the IHK and appointed Mr. Karan Signh as its Chairman last year. Mr. Karan Singh is the son of the last ruler of Jammu and Kashmir Mr. Hari Singh, who had singed the in famous document of the annexation of Kashmir with Indian in 1947. Soon after the signing of the annexation document Sheikh Abdullah ousted Mr. Hari Singh from the State and he himself became the Premier of IHK with the support of the Central Government of India. But Karan Singh after assuming the charge of the President of IHK dismissed Sheikh Abdullah Government in 1953 and kept him in detention for eleven years. Strangely enough, Mr. Karan Singh's action was also supported by the Central Government of India.

The enmity between the two families ended last year when Dr. Abdullah included Mr. Karan Singh in the National Conference and he won election on the ticket of National Conference. Some authentic sources in the administration, according to BBC say that the separation of Mr. Karan Singh from the committee will support the Hindus of the Jammu area who opposed the autonomy for IHK. Mr. Karan Singh, according to the BBC, is related to the Jammu's Dogra Community.

The residents of old Srinagar say that on Tuesday evening the police and paramilitary forces raided their houses and shops, reports the BBC. The Indian troops, according to the locals, ransacked their houses and shops and looted the valuable things. They also told BBC that the police and paramilitary forces had beaten them and that ten persons were seriously wounded. BBC reports also reveals that the police and the paramilitary forces lost their temper because the Mujahideen had hurled a hand grenade at the local police station, which caused serious injured to a number of paramilitary personnel. The incident has, according to BBC, caused great harassment to the National Conference Government. A member of the ruling party, Mubarik Gul, protested against this incident in the State Assembly, warning the Government that this kind of excesses against innocent citizens would have grave consequences.

An apparent tug-of-war between the district administration and Leh Autonomous Hill development council (LAHDC) has bruised the very idea of local governance in the Hilly district of Leh in IHK, says a report appearing in Indian Daily "The Hindu". To fight the 'interference' of the National Conference in administrative matters, the Council is all set to launch a strike and may even go to the extent of demanding a Union Territory status for the region, the report adds. LAHDC, which came into being in September 1995, after the promulgation of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill development Council Act, 1995, is, according to the paper, fighting a battle with the National Conference (NC) Government. With no "positive response to its memorandum The Council is planning to launch a strike protesting the NC government's apathy". IT also accused the NC Ministers of interfering in its functioning and pressuring the district administration to toe their line. The report says that the Act is vague and confusing on a number of issues, including powers of the Council. This has left the district administration and the Council pulling in different directions. With the Chairman and Chief Executive Councilor, Mr. Thupstan Chewang, blaming the National Conference Ministers for interfering in the functioning of he Council, the controversy over the "Status and real powers:" continues to snowball, adds the report. The report says that the Chief Councilor blamed the NC government for fomenting trouble in Leh in late 80s, which ultimately led to the demand of an Autonomous Council. "But, again, they are not allowing us to function on our own, which may take us to the demand of a 'separate State', he added.

Angered by news item, based on a leak from the Union Home Ministry. Carried by The Hindustan Times in its August 22 issue, the 'cub' who happens to be the Chief Minister of this God forsaken land, lashed out the local journalists blaming them of being pro-militants. Addressing the closing session of the Whips Conference here today, the chief Minister lost his nerves and in the fire tone accused the local journalists of blowing the situation out of proportion to give an impression to the outside world that rights scenario is grim in the valley. I warn those so-called press correspondents here to end their ways. I am not going to crush them overnight - because I am not a dictator and they too have a right to exist but they should not take democracy for granted", he warned in the most dictatorial manner, pointing towards the press gallery. He further accused that scribes of glorifying militants. Embarrassed by the overtures of Dr Farooq Abdullah, Prime Minister I K Gujral, who was also Present on the occasion, HUNG HIS HEAD IN SHAME.

This is the second time that the 'popular' Chief Minister has came out openly against the journalists. Earlier on July 9, on the eve of swearing-in ceremony of the Chief Justice of the State High Court, the CM had accused the journalists of being agents of Hurriet Conference and ISI. The utterances of Dr Farooq had resulted in a series of attacks on the local journalists by the police.

Meanwhile, the journalist fraternity in the Valley has strongly condemned the uncalled for utterances of the CM against the scribes and called on organisations all over the world to extend their support to stop the onslaught on the Valley based journalists by the 'popular government in the state. The journalists unanimously decided to boycott the function and do not give it any coverage. They further advised the angry old Chief Mnister to take a break, have a Kit Kat and keep cool.

Guerrillas of the J&K CID's Intelligence Field Unit (IFU) today swooped a marriage ceremony at Hazratbal and lifted the bride Ms Fahmeeda, groom Mr Feroz Ahmed Bazaaz as well as the bride's mother Mrs Rahti. All the three were whisked away to some unknown destination. NC MLC Javed Shah, in a faxed statement, expressed his anguish over the incident and demanded the detainees' immediate release. Official sources said that Minister of State Home Ali Mohammad Sagar took a serious notice of the "unwarranted" episode and pulled up senior police functionaries while directing them to immediately restore the three to their families so as the wedding continued without any disturbance.

Later, this evening all the three civilians were delivered at the marriage ceremony which had suddenly turned into a solemn occasion. It could not be ascertained as to why the three had been taken into custody.

"Militancy in the State of Jammu and Kashmir is definitely on decline, especially the local militants have lost interest in it. Now it is the foreign mercenaries only who have been operating here. However, the different security agencies are maintaining pressure on them and as a result they are getting killed in security operations ", says Mr. Gurbachan Jagat, the Director General of J&K Police, who earlier dealt with the same situation in Punjab in different capacities before being posted in J&K, while talking to State Times Correspondent in Srinagar.

Mr Jagat claimed that the Independence Day was peaceful, Prime Ministers visited the Valley twice in this month and then there was the successful conduct of the "WHIPS" conference, although extra-ordinary security arrangements were made, but that is necessary in the prevailing situation".

In reply to a question Mr. Jagat said, "on 14th August, there have been one or two incidents, when a handful of people waved Pakistani flags in remote and narrow lanes in the city, which is almost negligible".

In reply to a question about the custodial killings, disappearances and other Human Rights violations by different security agencies, the State police chief said, "there have been reports about this kind of violation; the government investigates these complaints, fixes responsibility and punishes the guilty, if the charges are proved, but most of the time it is proved that the exaggeration of events leads to this kind of misunderstandings". To friendlies (Surrendered militants), however, we will be coping up with the problem "These friendlies are being recruited in other agencies like BSF, CRPF and some other departments of State government, but not in the J&K police due to the complaints of high handedness with the people and their undisciplined attitude, which they inherited from the days of their militancy", Mr. Jagat added '

The DG police while replying to yet another question said that the next few months are going to be very crucial, as there would be lot of operational activities in the State, though the number of security bunkers and other related measures would not be taken, but the operations, especially by the State police to wipe out the would be intensified. "I would ask the militants to surrender failing which they, will be killed", said Mr. Jagat.

The State Task Force and personal mof Army (RR) came to blows in a bid to take control of leading Hurriyat leader, and Chairman of JKLF Mohamad Yaseen Malik and his associates at Handwara town, Mailik told a news conference in Srinagar today. Malik and his associates, including Salim Geelani and Mohammed Asam were arrested by the personnel of State Task Force at Handwara, in northern Kupwara district, but army wanted to have them, resulting in an alleged melee between the two sides.

Malik alleged that SP. Task Force was slapped in his face by the Commanding Officer of 21 Rashtriya Rifles, and a police gypsy was damaged during a dual between the police and the personnel of 2 l-RR who wanted Yasin Malik at all the costs. The commanding officer shouted at the Task Force personnel that "how dear a separatist leader enter into his area, where there has been no trouble for the past two years", he said. CO is alleged to have let loose reign of terror in the area. Narrating the incident during a news conference here today at Hurriyat Headquarters Yasin Malik said that when he and his colleagues were emerging out the court promises at Handwara after addressing some 1 000 people, the personnel of 21-RR emerged on the scene. Before they could arrest me, the Task Force arrived and took me and my colleagues to their camp, Malik said. The army insisted that Malik be handed over to them. However, Malik said, the S.P resisted, sparking anger among the RR personnel. The RR personnel followed the Task F6rce personnel up to their camp and asked the S.P that Malik is wanted by the CO. On refusal RR reinforcements reached and ringed the Task Force camp, sparking tension on both sides.

It was finally agreed, Malik claimed, that S.P would take me to CO himself in his own vehicle. "On reaching the RR camp, the CO pulled out the .S.P and later held me by my hair and dragged me out of the vehicle," said Malik, the JKLF chairman.

"They beat me up with rifles butts, kicks and what ever the caught hold of," he alleged. "After hitting me at a sensitive spot on my right side I fell unconscious and was revived by the doctors after some 90 minutes charged Malik an acute heart patient. Malik informed that when S.P Task Force told the CO that if anything happened to Malik, he (the S.P) will have to answer the queries and face the wrath, the S.P was slapped in his face, leading to casting of guns from both the sides. Malik alleged, that S.P. shouted at the CO that he has been sparing and shielding him even after rape charges against him but now 1 will no more shield or support you," Malik claimed, S.P screamed at the 21 -RR CO. The Task Force personnel finally took control of Malik and later shifted him to their camp, before setting him and his colleagues free. They all reached Srinager this morning. They were on tour to North Kashmr villages to collect information in the wake of reports of grave human rights violations being committed by the security forces in these area. APHC condemned the attack on Mr Malik.

Special Operations Group of Police or Task. Force arrested fifteen 5tudents at Handwara and have taken them for inter rogation, reports CNS news agency- The report, said that fifteen students were taken into custody from government higher secondary school of Handwara and these students were ruthlessly beaten up by forces during the course of interrogation. Agency said that ten of the student have been released after beating while five students were still in custody.

The parents, teachers and local residents have expressed sharp concern over the arrest of students and have described them as innocent.

Security forces from camp of Bomai, Sopore, came and raided the residential houses of IKS chairman's house who is in detention, Gh. Mohamad Bhat and have taken all valuables of his in a truck with them. Witness and residents said that during the operation which was being headed by an officer Mr. Choudray. They smashed all window panes and doors. They also crumbled up all the valuables of the house and loaded them in a truck. They said that they also allegedly took with them al1 honey which was stored in the boxes and burnt all the empty boxes. It is in place to mention that Ghulam Mohammad Bhat was arrested by special group of police' on July 28 and is since languishing in their custody. Earlier also he was arrested by army and was released after few days as many international human rights organisations showed concern over his arrest. This time also many international human rights groups have sent cables and fax messages to the government urging for his release at the earliest.

Security forces reportedly arrested Altaf Ahmad Gania, along with his six children from Samboora, Pampore and lodged them at some unknown places. Although his children were later released in a critical condition, the whereabouts of Altaf were not known. A report has been lodged with the police station Pampore regarding the arrest of Altaf Ahmad. The security forces arrested many civilians during search operations in the area. They include Abdul Rashid Ganaie, Mustaq Ganai and Reyaz Ahmad.

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 25, 1997

The skirmishes all along Kashmir Borders and Line of Actual.Control (LAC) between Indian and Pakistani troops have subsided since Sunday evening, a top 1ndian official said here "Last night the firing was not much 'in both Kupwara sectors.Brigadiar General Staff, Ashok Kumar told the Mirror here on Monday.

"The firing also receded in Uri belt", he said, "but they (Pakistani troops) have again started firing on our positions from Chakote since -Monday morning". However, the filing has stopped at many points in Uri, IOO km north of here, he said. Intermittent firing between Indian and Pakistani troops started on August 14, the independence day of Pakistan leaving at least four army men and three civilians dead, as per the sources. Ashok, said that his side suffered only two casualties so far. He did not rule the casualties on Pakistani side. "Obviously they must have suffered casualties as our boys have destroyed many of they their positions" ' he said.

Pakistan has denied that its troops have suffered casualties in Uri sector. A Defence Ministry spokesman in lslamabad said that there has been no exchange of fire between the troops of the two sides as reported by the Indian press. He said that initially Indian Army had taken Pakistani firing as routine and as part of their independence day celebrations. "Hovever, with each passing day since August 14, the intensity of firing increased he said, "and we retaliated on Augst 20".

Kapoor said Indian Army was ready to meet any eventuality, and claimed, it was one of the leading armies of the world. In January 1996 Indian and troops clashed at many points along disputed) orders and Line of Control, sparking tension in the international community, which appealed for ceasefire. Residents of Uri, who reached Srinagar Monday described the situation as "warlike". "This is for the first time since 1971 that Indian and Pakistani troops have continously targeted the positions of each other with heavy artillery". Sajad Alimad said. "I am surprised why both sides are not declaring it as a full fledged war", He said, however, confirming that firing has subsided since Sunday evening, "I have seen Indian troops in hundreds marching towards the borders with all the sophisticated weaponry", said Asgar Ali. "We are living under continuous scare", he said, after reaching Srinagar on Monday. Brigadier Jasbeer Lidder, commanding officer in Uri told reporters that some 70 Pakistani soldiers were killed in retaliatory firing by the Indian troops over the past couple of days.

Srinagar: Union Home Secretary, K Padmanabiah arrived here Yesterday to take stock of the internal security situation of the state in view of the continued shelling on the LAC (CFL) Mr Padmanabahi is scheduled to meet the C M and senior officials of security forces in Kashmir.

A PUC student identified as Zaffar lqbal s/o Gulam Nabi Hajam of Lachipora Bijhama was killed near Bijhama yesterday. The decedent along with his fellow student of Higher Second School Boniyar Uri had just return from Gulmarg.It is worth mentioning here that the school had gone to picnic.The reports reached here that the Army personal challenged the students in late hours of the evening when it suspected the Presence of some militants near by. Reports added that the student died on spot. Other student Mohammad Saleem s/o Mohamniad Sidiq of Bijbeharah was critically injured. He has been removed to hospital.

The Janata Dal leader and the Congress legislature party leader alleged that government was not ready to even listen to the constructive criticism and was trying to harass its opponents on one pretext or the other. Earlier, the Janata Dal legislature party leader, Mr Dilawar Mir expressed grave concern over the human rights violations by the security forces and police taskforce. He said, indiscriminate killings and arrests of people were being made. Mr Mir observed that it would prove counter-productive for national interests. During his speech he was interrupted by the Chief Minister, Dr Farooq Abdullah, who asked him to identify those violating the human rights Security forces and the police task force violate the rights.

" Honourable Chief Minister you have yourself identified them in your letter addressed to the Union Home Minister", said Dilawar Mir and appealed the Chief Minister to put an end to those as the abuses were proving counter-productive for national interests. He ridiculed the formation of the state human rights commission on the grounds that security forces were not brought under its preview. "What is the fun of forming the commission when it is ineffective", he said.

Regardless of the fact that one of the draconian laws Terrorist & disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act stand repealed by, the parliament, a large number of persons continue to languish in jails under the act. A large number of youth from Jammu and 'Kashmir State have been facing unending, incarceration under the draconian law. So far hardly, a few of the detenues have been put to trial under the act while others are 1anguishing in jails sub-jails and detention camps across the country. A majority of the detenues are, on completion of imprisonment under a particular law, 'released..' only to be re arrested. And thus their detention continues with so-called releases in between.

This abuse of the draconian laws has continued despite strong criticism from rights activists and the Judiciary. In a large number of cases the detention orders have been quashed by the Hon'ble judges of High Court. But the state has defied the orders by bringing the in some other charges against the detenue and held him in the custody. A due process of law is sought to be subverted by the state itself. This is a very unfortunate a phenomenon .On the other hand authority established under law to review each and every case of detention, has been taking too long a time to examine the cases. Thus is not done to the victims. Contrary to the claims of present Govt about expediting the review of the cases of detention, which could have resulted in the release of a majority of detenues, hardly a fraction of the detentues have earned freedom during past ten months. To the utter disbelief of the people here the state has been using dilly dallying tactics in presenting the facts before the Judges. The strictures passed by the Honorable Judges of High Court in a number of petitions, against the state govt. before testimony to the fact that it does not believe in fair play and justice.

The Ministerial Committee set up by the govt. of India to look into the TADA cases has surprisingly to review the cases of detention of insurgency affected states. This is against the policy of United Front Govt about the cases of detention. The failure of ministerial committee to consider the case s of detention from troubled states is not understandable. The United Front Government has already suffered in terns of credibility because of its accilating attitude towards various issues of national importance. The state government has invoked a 1965 draconian law in place of TADA. The Sabotage (Prevention) Act 1965 is as harsh as TADA and is as prone to misuse as the latter one. It is not understandable as to what necessitated invoking an act, which remained consigned to books for almost 30 years, and when the government continues to be armed with the J&K Public Safety Act, Armed Force 'Special Powers Act and their ilk to deal with the cases of sabotage. The action taken by the state Government in invoking sabotage (prevention) Act 1965 is indefensible. There is no justification for invoking the notorious law. If it claims that the that the state is limping back to normalcy then what is the justification for bringing in yet another harsh law. By its own admission all the draconian laws in force in the state are being misused and the existing mechanism to check human rights violations by the security forces lacking in many respects.

The recent correspondence between the State Chief Minister and the Union Home Minister is revealing. Both have pointed to the complaints of excesses committed by the deployed forces, and of the existing mechanism to cheek the same. Given the situation the laws in force they need to be reviewed so that their misuse is prevented.

A delegation of people from Ballhama, Baraman, Utter Dachu and Naribal villages of Baramulla have alleged that several people were beaten up by the security forces during a crackdown operation in these villages yesterday. The condition of several of these tortured people is stated to be critical. They alleged that one of the persons succumbed to injuries. He has been identified as Niamullah Khan resident Narbal, Baramidla. They alleged that one Sali Bhat of Ladu Baramulla died of heart failure when he heard that the security forces were asking for him. They said that security forces stationed at Watergam had come to the villages accusing the people of giving shelter to the, militants. They tortured several of them. Those critically injured have been identified as Mohammad Akbar Khan, Nazir Ahmad Khan, Ghulam Jeelarii Khan, Mohammad Ibrahim Sheikh, Abdul Aziz Khan and Mohammad Anwar.

Kashmir Times, From Iftikhar Gilani NEW DELHI, Aug 29

The Union Government is increasingly worried about the alarming number of casualties among the arm personnel fighting militancy in Jammu and Kashmir, The Home Ministry has also expressed concern over the mounting costs of security operations in the state. At present 263,800 military personnel and 165 units of parliamentary forces are engaged in the battle against insurgency in the state. In addition, these forces keep round the clock vigil along the Line of Control (LoC).

A top Defense Ministry official here indicated that 1,138 army personnel have been killed, and 2,607 injured during various gun battles in Jammu & Kashmir since 1989. Quoting Defense Ministry records, he informed that 90 percent of those killed were in 20-25 age group. And one of every 17 causalities was an officer. He described this an alarming rate as in the Kashmir valley, each officer commands less than 100 personnel. The official conceded that the figures were on the very high side for peace-time operations adding the numbers from the Kashmir valley were particularly worrying.

The personnel killed in Kashmir were second only to the causalities recorded during. India's peacekeeping mission against the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Elam (LTTE) in Sri Lanka. Around 2,000 Army personnel were killed during the IPKF operation.

The Home Ministry has also expressed concern over the rising cost of the security set up in the state. Reliable sources told KTNS here that a whooping sum of R's 5,000 crores is being spent every year alone on security operations in the state. The exchequer has paid around Rs 6,000 crores in past two years to fight insurgency in Jammu and Kashmir. These figures did not take into account the number of economic packages and loan waivers with which New Delhi has tried to please people. The Centre has recently rejected state government's request for a hike in central funds to the tune of 8,8450 crores. A senior Home Ministry official said the budget for carrying out anti-insurgency operations in Jammu and Kashmir has been stretched beyond all reasonable limits. To add to the woe, the state government has been 'asking for more and more funds in the form of ranging from security operations to waving off loans, developmental activities, employment opportunities and scores of other activities including buying vehicles and secured accommodations for friend, party workers and government officials, The Chief Secretary, Mr Ashok Jaitley recently asked the center to release Rs 326 crore for 1997 on account of security operations. The officials in the Home Ministry have, however, rejected the demand arguing the security needs did not 1exceed Rs 235 crore last Year which also included the highly secured pools too.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah has refused to return 700 bulletproof cars which had been given on loan to the state by New Delhi for the conduct of the Lok Sabha and Assembly polls last year. The Centre had planned to send these cars to the troubled North-East. The Chief Minister, it is learnt, has asked for additional 250 bullet- proof cars for bureaucrats and of his party leaders deemed to be under militants threat.

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has referred 213 cases of human right violation) to the State Government. Reply with reference to 165 cases has ready been sent to the NHRC while 48 cases are still pending with various departments for want of completion of inquiries by the State.

Chief Secretary, Mr Ashok Jaitly aid here today while presiding over the first meeting of the State Human Rights Commission (SHRC). Mr Jaitly disclosed that two official members for the Committee are being appointed shortly in consultation with the Divisional Commissioners. Appointment of an investigation officer headed by an officer of the rank of with necessary staff will also be processed under Section 2 of the J&K Protection of Human Rights Act to streamline the functioning of the State Human Rights Commission (SHRC). The investigation team will report only to the Commission. The concerned Government department will be asked to give their reactions to the report of the investigation team after it has been accepted by the Human Rights Commission.

The police today confirmed here that they have registered a case against security forces at Kunzar for barging into the residence of a handicapped villager and molesting a young woman. The security men are yet to be identified but it has been confirmed that they all belong to the local camp. The area observed a protest strike for the second day today. Details revealed that the security men during the intervening night of Aug 27-28 barged into the residence of Khazir Mohammad Sheikh and made an unsuccessful attempt to physically assault the women. They allegedly caught hold of one of the young ladies, believed to be a recently married girl, but she raised an alarm, which saved her. Next morning, when the news of the nocturnal developments spread in the area, the people closed their shops and observed a complete shut down. This lead to the registration of FIR with Tangmarag police. The villages continued their ' strike for the second day today accusing police of not initiating the investigations.

Udampore (Jammu): Two Central Reserve police Force have been arrrested under section 376 IPC for alleged rape of a mentally unsound woman in Latti area of the district, 60 Km away from here, The Jawans had kidnapped the woman, led her to the nearby forest and raped her on August 18. The villagers had lodged a report with the police, which arrested the CRPF Jawans. The alleged rapist have been named as Arjun and M Samus.

Ever sine militancy erupted in the state, 18,118 persons have been killed including 8,363 civilians, 8,343 militants and 1,412 security personnel. The reply, tabled in the house said that 6,005 civilians were killed by militants and 2,358 were killed in the cross firing. It further said that only 30 cases involving 33 persons were proved prim facae. Out of 1,014 allegations of custodial deaths received. In another reply tabled in the house today the government said 896 militants were killed, 1755 arrested and 384 militants surrendered between October last year and July 1997. In a query, the government revealed that as many as 28 foreign militants were killed in Jammu region and one was arrested between I994-1997. These include 20 in Doda, and four each in Poonch and Kuthua. There have been 44 militancy related incidents in Rajouri district between October 1, 1996 and August 1, 1997, out of which 25 were reported from Darhal constituency. The government today said in the assembly that they have launched massive drive to absorb Youth in IRP, SPOS and JKP. In Doda, reply to a separate question said, 490 civilians were killed and in 430 cases, ex-gracia relief has been paid besides 102 persons accommodated on compassionate grounds. So far the government has appointed 1400 people on compassionate grounds Surrendered militants

The government in a tabled reply to a query said the surrendered militants can have guns for the safety after obtaining a license under section Indian Arms Act. It was revealed that as many as 56 surrendered Militant (renegades or pro-govt.) have been engaged as SPOs in Doda district.

Mr B.M Vohara an IPS officer of Nagaland cadre, will be new IGP of BSF jammu Frontier. He is likely to take charge in the first week of September. He will replace the present IG BSF Mr RS Mehta who has been transferred to BSF Training Command, Delhi. Mr Mehta was transferred here two years back he had replaced the then IG Dr Surrender Singh. Mr Vohara who has vast experience in fighting the insurgency in Nagaland and other bordering States, has specially been brought here by the Home Ministry to devise effective ways for controlling infiltration and ex-filtration from along the Jammu borders An emphasis is also being laid to further tighten the vigil along the border belt in Jammu region for the purpose. Reinforcements may also be deployed. The Centre has taken a serious note of the reports of infiltration and ex-filtration by the dreaded Khalistan Zindabad Force and other Punjab militants from the Jammu borders.

The withdrawal of Army and paramilitary forces and two laws giving them ample powers and immunity dominated today's meeting of Unified Command, Chaired by Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah. It has been decided to discuss the need of these two laws, in Assembly in October, when term of both these Acts expires. Highly placed official sources said that the issues of withdrawing Army and paramilitary forces from Kashmir Valley and giving charge to police was discussed there. The view, supported by the majority of members was that though things were returning to normalcy at a fast pace, but still the Army was needed.

In this connection the killing of seven people in Shopian and increasing encounters of militants with security forces were quoted specifically. Army and paramilitary forces representatives stressed for assessing the situation in right perspective and cautioned that civil administration should not allow itself to get carried away with the 'semblance of normalcy' as anything was possible in the situation ' The Chief Minister also supported the view and felt the need of Army in the Valley, till J and K Police was fully prepared to take control, sources said. As for as the withdrawal of Disturbed Area Act and Armed Forces Special Powers Act was concerned, this was also opposed by the participants after discussing it threadbare. The term of Acts is to expire in October this year and it was decided to go to the Assembly to discuss it with public representatives, whether to continue with the same or not. Sectary to Chief Minister B R Singh, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir S L Bhat, IGP Kashmir range P S Gill, IG Security Vijay Raman, IG BSF CM Bhat, IG CRPF, and other senior officers. In this case also Army representative held die view that in absence of these Acts it cannot deal with militancy properly. They said that until the Jarnmu and Kashmir Police was not ready to take over, the continuance of these Acts was needed in every respect, the sources added. Sources said that the allegations of human rights violations at the hands of different security agencies also came up for the discussion. The Chief Minister issued strict directions to the top brass of these agencies that no chance should be given for any such complaint and the maximum possible restraint should be observed. He cautioned the security forces to be vigilant against enemy's bid to push infiltrators from across the border for subversive activities. He complimented civil administration, Army, BSF, CRPF, ITBP and other agencies for successful culmination of Amamath Yatra. The overall security scenario was also discussed.

The meeting was also attended by Minister of State for Home Affairs Mohammad Sagar, Chief Secretary Ashok Jaitely, Security Adviser to Government and Corp Commander Lt Gen Krishan Pal, Additional Chief Secretary (Home) I S Malhi, Director General of Police Gurbachan Jaigat, Prinpinal ...

The order issued by the government reads like a document of Govemment of Haryana or Rajasthan if the community wise ratio is taken into consideration. Out of a total of 43 officers touched in the order involving top brass of civil and police administration just 12 are Muslim. Out of the top 16 IAS officers only four belong to the Majority Community. The state even officially has a 70% Muslim population.

All the major Corporate Heads posted today are from regions outside Valley. Muslim officers have got slots like CONFED, Employment and Libraries. This is fifth posting for lqbal Kanday since the return of popular governmen while Idr Ajit Kumar gets fourth posting in the same period. R K Jeeiath also gets fourth posting in nine months. He made news in late eighties when the late Rajiv Gandhi had to intervene as Prime minister to get him removed as District Development Commissioner Leh, for his poor performance.

G D Wadhwa, who has recently been charge-sheeted on serious allegations goes to the just constituted State Human Rights Commission. Farooq Ahmed Khan has received another windfall of his brief career. He is not even a qualified Secretary and junior to dozens of senior Public Sector Executives Who have been stagnating for decades. Dewan Singh Langeh joins the SSRB as its latest addition. The strength of the Board which has failed to keep its schedule of recruitment rises to 19. The name of DP Verma who has been posted as Special Secretary Industries and Commerce and GN Ahanger, the new Registrar Co-Operatives do not figure in the information Department handout though their names is contained in the govt order Police transfers The State Cabinet also ordered the following transfers and postings in the Police department: Mr P Bhaskar, IPS, IGP, Home Guards and Civil Defence has been transferred and posted as Officer on Special Duty in Police Headquarters. Mr R V Raju, IPS, Presently on Central deputation has been given pro forma promotion as IGP; Mr Madan Lal, IPS, IGP will be Managing Director, Police Housing coroprotion. Dr.A K Bhan IPS, IGP will be IGP (modernisation) Mr Shamas Ahmad Khan IPS,IGP will be IGP home guards and Civil Defence; Dr S P Vaid, IPS, has been transferred and posted as DIG, Baramulla Range; Mr S S Oberoi, IPS, has been transferred and posted as Additional DIG Armed Police., Mr Naveen Agarwal, IPS, will be Director, Police Tele-communications; Mr P K Gupta, IPS, has been transferred and posted as Additional DIG Security.'

As per reports the grave of Zia-ud-Din at the Akingam cemetery in Achabal area of Anantnag is wide open and nobody is touching it for obvious reasons. Most of the rain water recently made its way into the gapping hole and the grave gradually is becoming a pit. Din, as per locals was a Pakistani militant who was killed in an encounter with the security forces in late 1995. However, the Special Operations Group (SOG) exhumed the militants body on September 25 last, after they were told by some sources that the person was in fact the British hostage Paul Wells who was buried in the village graveyard after killed somewhere in the mountains. After exhuming the body, preliminary tests were conducted over the body in the Medical College here. Later a team of experts from Central Forensic Laboratory Hydrabad were summoned. They arrived here and did a lot of tests over the body which was mutilated beyond recognition.

The dental X-rays of the British hostage was got from London which did not match with the dental structure of the exhumed body. Same was true with the DNA records of the hostage and the body. The government finally made it public that the exhumed body was not of the British hostage. Interestingly, however, the body was not returned to the villagers. The reason given for not handing over the body was that the police strongly doubts that the body belongs to Zia-ud-Din. In order to prove the identity of the clueless body, the corpse was kept by the police.

But where is the body? There are no definite answers. A well informed source said the police has buried the trunk carrying the body somewhere in the city while as the head stands preserved either with the state run Medical College Srinagar or the police hospital. However, officials believe that silence is better part of discretion.