Category Archives: security

government, politics, security

Ministry Of Home Affairs Extends AFSPA For 6 Months In Parts Of Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh & Nagaland

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New Delhi: The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Friday extended the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) for another six months in certain parts of Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland, officials said.

According to three separate notifications issued by the MHA, the further extension of the special law will be effective from October 1.

The AFSPA, which grants armed forces operating in disturbed areas sweeping powers to search, arrest, and open fire if deemed necessary for the “maintenance of public order,” was extended for six more months in the entire state of Manipur, excluding areas under the jurisdiction of 13 police stations across five districts — Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Kakching.

Manipur, which has 16 districts, has been ravaged by ethnic violence between the majority Meitei community and the minority Kuki-Zo-Hmar tribals since May 3, 2023. This prolonged conflict has claimed over 260 lives.

Following the unrest, Manipur has been under President’s rule since February 13, just four days after Chief Minister N Biren Singh, who led the second BJP government, resigned on February 9.

The MHA notification stated that after reviewing the law and order situation in Manipur, the central government, in exercise of powers conferred by Section 3 of the AFSPA, 1958, extended the Act for another six months effective October 1.

In Nagaland, the AFSPA has been extended in eight districts — Dimapur, Niuland, Chumoukedima, Mon, Kiphire, Noklak, Phek, and Peren — along with 21 police stations in five other districts: Kohima, Mokokchung, Longleng, Wokha, and Zunheboto. These areas have been declared ‘disturbed areas’ for six months from April 1.

Similarly, in Arunachal Pradesh, the AFSPA has been extended in Tirap, Changlang, and Longding districts, including areas under the jurisdiction of Namsai, Mahadevpur, and Chowkham police stations in Namsai district bordering Assam. These have also been declared ‘disturbed areas’ for six months effective October 1.

The government reviewed the law and order situations in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh before deciding to extend the Act in these regions.

Meanwhile, various organizations in Manipur, including the Manipuri Students’ Federation (MSF), Nupi Khunai-Yairipok, and Meira Paibis, continue to agitate, demanding the withdrawal of AFSPA from the state.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma earlier noted that the MHA has lifted AFSPA from many parts of his state. “At one time, the entire state was under AFSPA. The Centre has steadily reduced the areas where the Act applies,” Sarma said.

Originally imposed across Assam in 1990 due to insurgent activities led by the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA), AFSPA has been renewed every six months since, with periodic reviews gradually excluding certain areas based on improvements in security.

With significant improvements, AFSPA was lifted from Tripura in 2015, Meghalaya in 2018, and Mizoram in the 1980s.

*Note: Except for the headline, this article has not been edited by FPJ’s editorial team and is auto-generated from an agency feed.*
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/ministry-of-home-affairs-extends-afspa-for-6-months-in-parts-of-manipur-arunachal-pradesh-nagaland

government, politics, protests, region, security

Sonam Wangchuk arrested in Leh; prohibitory orders remain in force in Ladakh

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Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk was arrested in Leh on Friday, two days after violent protests demanding statehood and the inclusion of Ladakh under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution left four people dead and 90 others injured, officials said.

Wangchuk was taken into custody by a police team led by Ladakh Deputy General of Police (DGP) SD Singh Jamwal around 2:30 pm, according to officials. It was not immediately clear what charges were pressed against him.

The Ministry of Home Affairs had earlier blamed Wangchuk, a senior member of the Leh Apex Body (LAB), for provoking the violence. The LAB, along with the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), has been spearheading the agitation for more than five years.

Wangchuk, who was on a hunger strike supporting the demands, denied the charges. He condemned the violence and ended his fortnight-long fast on Wednesday after the protests turned violent.

Meanwhile, prohibitory orders under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023, remain in force in Leh following the September 24 clashes. The assembly of five or more persons has been banned in the district, and no procession, rally, or march can be carried out without prior written approval. Security personnel continue to be deployed across Leh.

The prohibitory orders were imposed after protestors targeted the BJP office in Leh, escalating tensions.

On Thursday, Lieutenant Governor of Ladakh Kavinder Gupta chaired a high-level security review meeting with Chief Secretary Pawan Kotwal, DGP SD Singh Jamwal, and senior officers of the Army and Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). The Lt Governor emphasized the need for heightened vigilance, better inter-agency coordination, and proactive measures to safeguard peace and public order across the Union Territory.

The violence has also triggered a political row, with BJP leader Amit Malviya alleging that Congress councillor Phuntsog Stanzin Tsepag had “instigated” protestors who attacked the BJP office in Leh on Wednesday.

Wangchuk rejected claims of Congress involvement in the unrest. Speaking to ANI, he said, “What is the name of the person who entered the BJP office? First of all, a few weeks ago, the Congress party was removed from our Apex Body so that it can remain apolitical. So you can understand that this movement has nothing to do with Congress. They were told to move away from the movement until the elections are over. Otherwise, they also have a place in it.”

(With PTI and ANI inputs)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/ladakh-protest-sonam-wangchuk-arrested-in-leh-two-days-after-violent-clashes-left-four-people-dead-23595958

india, politics, security, tourism

Uttar Pradesh News: President Droupadi Murmu Visits Mathura; Offers Prayers At Iconic Temples Amid Tight Security

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**President Droupadi Murmu Visits Mathura Aboard Luxury Maharaja Express**

Mathura: President Droupadi Murmu arrived in Mathura on Thursday morning aboard the luxury Maharaja Express train for a day-long visit. The special train, equipped with a Presidential suite, deluxe suites, restaurants, and lounges, brought the President and her delegation to Vrindavan Road railway station at 10 a.m.

**Temple Visits and Prayers**

According to the President’s office, her itinerary for the day includes prayers at several revered sites: Shri Banke Bihari Temple, Nidhivan, Kubja Krishna Temple, and Shri Krishna Janmsthan in Mathura. Additionally, she will visit Sudama Kuti during the day.

A special ‘maha aarti’ has been planned at the 500-year-old Kubja Krishna Temple, where prayers will be dedicated to world peace and the health of critically ill patients.

**Reception and Security Measures**

District Magistrate Chandra Prakash Singh confirmed that the President was warmly received by Minister for Sugarcane Development and Sugar Industry Laxmi Narayan Chaudhary, Mayor Vinod Kumar Agarwal, and senior officials.

To ensure the utmost security, more than 4,000 police personnel have been deployed across the city. This effort is supported by eight companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary as well as ATS commandos. Central security agencies have also been deployed to augment the safety arrangements, and a strict no-fly zone remains in effect over the city.

**Traffic and Surveillance**

Senior Superintendent of Police Shlok Kumar stated that surveillance measures include active monitoring of social media and prompt reporting of any suspicious activities. Traffic has been diverted along the President’s convoy routes to facilitate smooth movement.

Furthermore, Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which prohibits gatherings of more than five people, has been strictly enforced throughout the city during the visit.

**Return to Delhi**

After concluding her engagements in Mathura, the President’s special train is scheduled to depart from Mathura Junction in the evening, returning to Delhi.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/uttar-pradesh-news-president-droupadi-murmu-visits-mathura-offers-prayers-at-iconic-temples-amid-tight-security

international relations, politics, security

Iran says US desire for nuclear diplomacy is a deception

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Iran Says US Desire for Nuclear Diplomacy Is a Deception

The United States, its European allies, and Israel accuse Tehran of using its nuclear program to conceal efforts aimed at developing the capability to produce nuclear weapons.

In response, Iran has dismissed the US approach to nuclear diplomacy as a mere deception, emphasizing that its nuclear activities are solely for peaceful purposes. The ongoing tensions highlight the deep mistrust between Iran and the international community over the true intentions behind its nuclear ambitions.

https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/iran-news/article-868556

conflict, dignity, government, politics, security

Crisis is BJP govt`s own creation: Congress on Ladakh violence

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Congress’ media and publicity department head Pawan Khera described the loss of precious lives in Ladakh as tragic. He said, “It’s a grim reminder of the government’s failed promises. In 2019, from the floor of Parliament, the nation was assured that the humiliation being inflicted on the people of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir then would usher in peace. Six years later, the trouble has only deepened.”

Khera further stated on X, “Far from restoring normalcy in the valley, the Centre’s shortsightedness has pushed Jammu and Ladakh also into an incinerator of violence. This crisis is the BJP government’s own creation—one it now seeks to unfairly ignore.”

He emphasized that Ladakh’s demand for inclusion under the Sixth Schedule, for dignity and the protection of their identity, is both legitimate and just. According to the Congress leader, it deserves not neglect but compassion and statesmanship.

On Wednesday, groups of youths engaged in arson and vandalism, targeting the headquarters of the BJP and the Hill Council. They also set ablaze vehicles. Police and paramilitary forces, deployed in strength across the town, lobbed teargas shells to bring the situation under control, officials said.

The Centre alleged that the mob violence was instigated by “provocative statements” from climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. It added that certain “politically motivated” individuals were unhappy with the progress made in the ongoing talks between government representatives and Ladakhi groups.

In a statement, the Union Home Ministry said that barring a few unfortunate incidents that occurred early on Wednesday, the situation was brought under control by 4 pm. The ministry also urged everyone not to circulate old and provocative videos on media and social platforms.

At least 50 people were detained as police and paramilitary forces strictly enforced curfew on Thursday in the violence-hit Leh.

*This story has been sourced from a third-party syndicated feed and agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, and data of the text. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the sole right to alter, delete, or remove (without notice) the content at their absolute discretion for any reason whatsoever.*
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/crisis-is-bjp-govts-own-creation-congress-on-ladakh-violence-23595754

climate, politics, protests, security, urban development

Ladakh protest: LG reviews security situation in Leh, calls for vigilance

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The situation in Ladakh remains extremely concerning amid ongoing protests that have resulted in four deaths and over 80 injuries. The incident occurred during widespread clashes amid a shutdown in the region.

In an effort to bring the situation under control, Lieutenant Governor of the Union Territory, Kavinder Gupta, chaired a security review meeting in Leh on Thursday. During the meeting, Gupta called for heightened vigilance to maintain peace across Ladakh, as reported by news agency PTI.

The shutdown and protest were called by a constituent of the Leh Apex Body (LAB) in support of demands to expedite proposed talks with the Centre regarding the extension of the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution and statehood for Ladakh.

The Lieutenant Governor’s office posted on social media platform X: “A high-level security review meeting assessed the emerging situation across Ladakh, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance, seamless inter-agency coordination, and proactive measures to safeguard peace, security, and public order across the UT,” according to PTI.

Officials from Ladakh stated that senior officers from the police, CRPF, and civil administration attended the meeting, discussing in detail the prevailing law and order situation in the region.

On Wednesday, hundreds of protesters supporting the movement for Ladakh’s statehood and the extension of the Sixth Schedule turned violent. As reported by PTI, the protest intensified quickly, with demonstrators setting fire to the BJP office in Leh and several vehicles.

In response, authorities imposed a curfew in Leh and its adjoining areas to restore order.

The Centre alleged that the mob violence was incited by “provocative statements” made by climate activist Sonam Wangchuk. The Modi-led party also suggested that some “politically motivated” individuals were unhappy with the progress of ongoing talks between government representatives and Ladakhi groups.

Meanwhile, Sonam Wangchuk, who was leading a hunger strike in Leh to support the twin demands, called off his strike following the violence on Wednesday. He urged people to restore peace throughout Ladakh, according to PTI.

(With inputs from PTI)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/ladakh-protest-lg-reviews-security-situation-in-leh-calls-for-heightened-vigilance-23595753

aviation, denmark, public safety, security, technology

Police close Denmark’s Aalborg Airport, shut down airspace due to drone sightings

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Police Close Denmark’s Aalborg Airport and Shut Down Airspace Due to Drone Sightings

Authorities have closed Aalborg Airport and restricted the surrounding airspace following multiple reports of drone sightings near the facility. An official statement confirmed, “Drones have been observed near Aalborg Airport, and the airspace is closed. The police are present and investigating further.”

The presence of unauthorized drones has raised safety concerns, prompting immediate action from law enforcement and aviation authorities to ensure the security of air traffic in the area.

Drone flying on high altitude mountain top; illustrative.

Photo credit: SHUTTERSTOCK / lzf

Source: Reuters, Jerusalem Post Staff

https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868490

international relations, politics, security

‘Harbouring UN-Proscribed Terrorists, Bombing Own People’: India Tears Into Pakistan At UNHRC Over Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Strikes By PAF; VIDEO

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**India Hits Back at Pakistan Over Air Strikes at the UN Human Rights Council**

*New York:* India on Tuesday strongly responded to Pakistan during the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) session, delivering a sharp rebuttal over recent allegations and cross-border tensions.

India’s representative, Kshitij Tyagi, referenced the air strikes conducted by the Pakistan Air Force (PAF) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which reportedly killed at least 30 civilians. He accused Pakistan of abusing the UNHRC platform with baseless and provocative statements targeted at India.

“A delegation that epitomises the antithesis of this approach continues to abuse this forum with baseless and provocative statements against India,” Tyagi said. “Instead of coveting our territory, they would do well to vacate the Indian territory under their illegal occupation and focus on rescuing an economy on life support, a polity muzzled by military dominance, and a human rights record stained by persecution,” he added.

Tyagi further criticized Pakistan, stating, “Perhaps once they find time away from exporting terrorism, harbouring UN-proscribed terrorists, and bombing their own people,” they might engage constructively.

These remarks came during the discussion on Agenda Item 4 at the UNHRC session. A video of Tyagi’s response to Pakistan has since gone viral.

The backdrop to this exchange involves reports that surfaced on Monday, revealing that at least 30 civilians, including women and children, were killed in air strikes conducted by the PAF in Matre Dara village in the Tirah Valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The attacks reportedly took place in the early hours of Sunday, September 21.

According to these reports, the PAF used JF-17 Thunder jets to drop at least eight LS-6 precision glide bombs on the civilian settlement. However, the Pakistan Army has denied these media reports.

Earlier, Amnesty International had criticized Pakistan’s counter-terrorism operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, describing them as demonstrating an “alarming disregard for civilian life.”

Eyewitnesses claimed that several houses collapsed during the alleged air strikes, with bodies being pulled out from the rubble afterward.

This latest confrontation at the UNHRC underscores the continuing tensions between India and Pakistan, with both sides trading accusations amidst ongoing regional instability.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/harbouring-un-proscribed-terrorists-bombing-own-people-indias-tears-into-pakistan-at-unhrc-over-airstrikes-in-khyber-pakhtunkhwa-video

conflict, international relations, military, politics, security

Donald Trump Tells NATO To Shoot Down Russian Jets Crossing Airspace In Fresh Jibe At Putin

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When asked by reporters if he believed NATO should take action against Russian aircraft crossing their airspace, Donald Trump responded affirmatively. “Yes, I do,” Trump said on Tuesday, asserting that NATO should shoot down Russian aircraft entering their airspace. He made these remarks while speaking to reporters after meeting with his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

During the meeting, when asked about NATO shoot-downs, Trump reiterated, “Yes, I do.”

In response, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte adopted a more measured stance. According to a report by US broadcaster CNN, Rutte emphasized that shoot-down decisions should depend on available intelligence regarding the threat posed by the aircraft. He noted, “This also includes questions we have to answer like intent, armaments and potential risk to allies, forces, civilians or infrastructure. We will always assess the situation, assess the immediate threat the plane poses.”

These comments came shortly after the first direct encounters between NATO and Moscow since the start of the Ukraine war. Alleged incursions of Russian aircraft over Poland, Estonia, and other NATO countries have recently tested the alliance’s preparedness and credibility in deterring Russia. For instance, Russian jets reportedly violated Estonian airspace, prompting Tallinn to call for an urgent meeting.

Meanwhile, Trump suggested that Ukraine has the potential to reclaim more than just the territory it has lost to Russia since the war began in February 2022. In a Truth Social post following his meeting with Zelenskyy at the United Nations, Trump wrote:
“I think Ukraine, with the support of the European Union, is in a position to fight and WIN all of Ukraine back in its original form.”

He added that Kyiv could possibly go even further, although he did not provide specifics on what he meant by that statement.
https://www.news18.com/world/donald-trump-tells-nato-to-shoot-down-russian-jets-crossing-airspace-in-fresh-jibe-at-putin-ws-kl-9592594.html

crime, law enforcement, local news, security

Robbery Caught On Camera: Masked Men Loot ₹1.75 Lakh From Petrol Pump In Rajasthan’s Baran; Police Respond To Viral Video

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**Masked Men Loot Petrol Pump in Rajasthan’s Baran; Incident Caught on CCTV**

In the early hours of Monday, September 22, masked men looted the Ambika petrol pump in Baran, Rajasthan. The incident, which occurred around 2:15 am, was captured by the CCTV cameras installed at the petrol pump, and the video of the robbery has since surfaced online.

According to reports, five to six masked assailants overpowered a petrol pump employee and held him hostage during the robbery. In the viral footage, the men can be seen tying the employee’s hands and legs before fleeing the scene with approximately Rs 1,750 in cash, as reported by Aaj Tak.

**Baran Police Response**

Following the viral spread of the video, the Baran Police have responded promptly. Authorities have confirmed that a detailed investigation is underway, and officials are actively probing the incident. A manhunt operation has been launched to apprehend the accused individuals involved in this robbery.

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**Similar Incident in Saharsa, Bihar Earlier This Year**

This is not an isolated case. Earlier in February 2024, robbers also targeted a petrol pump at gunpoint in Saharsa, Bihar. The armed robbery was recorded on the petrol pump’s CCTV camera.

In that incident, four masked criminals arrived on two bikes at the Pooja Petrol Pump in Tiri, located in the Baijnathpur police station jurisdiction. They forcibly seized a cash bag containing ₹21,000 from the cashier before fleeing the scene. The local police continue to investigate the case.

—

Incidents like these highlight the need for increased security measures at fuel stations and prompt law enforcement actions to ensure the safety of employees and customers alike.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/india/robbery-caught-on-camera-masked-men-loot-175-lakh-from-petrol-pump-in-rajasthans-baran-police-react-after-video-goes-viral