4 Army Men, Civilian Killed in Encounter in J&K’s Pulwama

Catch all the live updates on the Pulwama encounter here.

Four army men, including a Major, were killed in an encounter that broke out between terrorists and security forces in Pinglan area of Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Monday, 18 February. The four personnel belonged to 55 Rashtriya Rifles.

According to reports, a civilian also lost his life in the encounter.

The encounter comes days after 40 jawans were killed in a deadly attack on a CRPF convoy in Pulwama’s Awantipora area on Thursday, 14 February. The attack was claimed by Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad.

In the aftermath of Thursday's attack, New Delhi – which blames Pakistan for sponsoring terror attacks in India – is actively trying to isolate Islamabad globally.

Here’s the full list of Jawans martyred in the attack.

Union Minister Arun Jaitley, while briefing the media on the result of the Cabinet Committee Meeting, said that after analysing the attacks on the CRPF convoy, MEA will initiate all possible diplomatic steps to ensure complete isolation of Pakistan from the international community.

The ‘most favoured nation’ status, which was granted to Pakistan, also stands withdrawn, he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while inaugurating the Vande Bharat Express in New Delhi, said that the forces behind the terror attack in Pulwama will definitely be punished.

The prime minister further paid tribute to those who lost their lives in the attack and thanked all the nations that have come out in India’s support. He also hit out at Pakistan for trying to destabilise India.

At a press conference, Congress President Rahul Gandhi extended support to the government in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack.

There will be no other discussion from the Congress on this (politics) for the next couple of days,” the party president said.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh also said that terrorism is something that should not be compromised.

A day after the attack on its convoy, CRPF said in a statement, "We will not forget, we will not forgive – we salute our martyrs of Pulwama attack and stand with the families of our martyr brothers. This heinous attack will be avenged."

China on Friday condemned the Pulwama terror attack carried out by a Jaish suicide bomber but once again declined to back India's appeal to list the Pakistan-based terror group's chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist by the UN.

"China has noted the reports of suicide terrorist attack. We are deeply shocked by this attack. We express deep condolences and sympathy to the injured and bereaved families," spokesman of the Chinese Foreign Ministry Geng Shuang told a media briefing.

When asked about China's stand on the listing of Azhar as a global terrorist by the UN Security Council, he said:

"JeM has been included in the Security Council terrorism sanctions list. China will continue to handle the relevant sanctions issue in a constructive and responsible manner," he said in an apparent reference to External Affairs Ministry's appeal to all members of the UN Security Council to list Azhar as a global terrorist.

The CRPF has confirmed that the death toll in the Pulwama terror attack has risen to 40. Out of the 40 martyrs, 36 have been identified by the CRPF while four bodies are yet to be identified.

Curfew has been imposed in parts of Jammu, in the aftermath of the Thursday’s terror attack. The Bus Stand, Nawabad, Bakshi Nagar, Peer Mitha, Pacca Danga, Channi Himmat, Janipur, Domana and Bagh-E-Bahu areas are the places where the curfew has been imposed.

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood was summoned by Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale over the Pulwama terror attack.

Foreign Secretary summoned the Pakistani envoy to the Ministry of External Affairs at 14:00 hrs and issued a strong demarche in connection with the terrorist attack in Pulwama on Thursday, 14 February.

He conveyed that Pakistan must take immediate and verifiable action against the Jaish-e-Mohammed, and that it must immediately stop any groups or individuals associated with terrorism operating from its territories. Foreign Secretary also rejected the statement made by the Pakistan government after the attack.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while addressing a gathering in Jhansi, said that the sacrifice of soldiers killed in Pulwama attack won't be in vain. He also said that the valour of the security forces has been witnessed by the country previously.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. He will pay homage to the 40 CRPF jawans martyred in the attack and examine the situation in the state.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami has announced a solatium of Rs 20 lakh each to the families of the two CRPF personnel from the state who lost their lives in Pulwama attack.

Protesters in Ranchi took to the streets against the killing of 40 CRPF jawans in Pulwama.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani in an official statement condemned the Pulwama attack and said that terrorism needs to be rooted out.

“President Ashraf Ghani strongly condemns terror attack targeting CRPF personnel in J&K.Afghanistan expresses sympathy and deep condolences to the Indian government and people, and the families of the soldiers who fell victim to the incident,” the statement read.

“Terrorism is a cancer in the region, and it requires collective efforts to root it out,” it further read.

A petition has been moved in the Delhi High Court seeking to issue a direction to the press and electronic media to use 'respectful words on the martyrdom of soldiers'.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh and J&K DGP Dilbagh Singh lend a shoulder to mortal remains of a CRPF soldier in Budgam.

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das announced an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh for the family of martyred CRPF jawan Vijay Soreng from the state, who was among the 40 personnel killed in a terrorist attack in Pulwama.

The CM also promised a government job to a member of his family.

The Uttarakhand Assembly paid homage to CRPF personnel killed in the Pulwama terror attack and unanimously passed a resolution offering one month salary by every member to help families of those who laid down their lives.

Asserting that Kashmiri people living in other states could be soft targets in a surcharged atmosphere, former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah Friday asked Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh to direct all state governments to ensure their safety.

"My earnest appeal to @rajnathsingh ji to please issue directions to all state governments to take special care in areas/colleges/institutions where Kashmiris are residing/studying. They are soft targets in a surcharged atmosphere," Abdullah tweeted.

He also asked people to unite against terror and maintain peace.

"Kashmiris/Muslims in Jammu didn't attack our CRPF jawans yesterday (Thursday), terrorists did. This violence is a convenient tool by some to shift the blame. Let's unite against terror, let's not allow terror to divide us," Abdullah said.

Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria has been called to Delhi for consultations in the wake of Pulwama attack.

Bisaria will leave tonight for Delhi for the consultations tomorrow.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik hold meeting with officials in Srinagar.

Lt General (Retd) DS Hooda who oversaw the 2016 Surgical Strike Operation by India on Pakistan said that Pakistan’s hand in the Pulwama attacks has been revealed and there needs to be a response.

“It's a big tragedy and very clearly Pakistan's hand is completely revealed in this. There needs to be a response to this. But let's have a more consistent and long term policy,” he said.

As the J&K police identified the terrorist who carried out the Pulwama attack as Adil Ahmad from Pulwama, his father told India Today that his son was a class 12 student and he was unaware of his terrorist activities.

He also said that Adil left to write his class 12 exam one day and never returned home.

Congress Core group meeting is underway at the residence of UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, over the Pulwama attack.

Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut has demanded a Joint Parliament sesion to discuss the Pulwama attack.

A gathering of ex-servicemen and veterans voices its anger against the Pulwama attack while marching from Jantar Mantar to India Gate.

Punjab Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu said that India should go ahead with the Kartarpur corridor despite the Pulwama attack.

“What has this bloodshed got to do with Kartarpur? It connects-people, hearts. When a person becomes a pilgrim out of devotion, he becomes a different person. What I feel is we should deliberate over this, find the root cause of the problem and uproot it,” he said.

NDTV journalist Nidhi Sethi has been suspended for two weeks following a controversial Facebook post on the Pulwama attack.

Basim Hilal, a BSc Mathematics student of the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) was also suspended for a controversial tweet on the attack. The student hails from Kashmir.

“We've come to know of the highly objectionable tweet. Taking immediate cognizance he has been suspended by AMU administration. We won't let the University be discredited. We have zero tolerance. He hails from Kashmir and was a BSc Mathematics student,” Omar Saleem Peerzada, AMU PRO told ANI.

PM of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu in an official statement expressed condolences over the death of 40 CRPF jawans killed in the Pulwama attack.

“To my dear friend, Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi, we stand with you, the security forces and the people of India following this heinous terrorist attack. We send our condolences to the families of the victims,” he said.

Senior MEA officials are reaching out to all important partners via diplomatic missions in wake of the Pulwama attack to apprise them of involvement of Pakistan backed terror groups, ANI reported.

Rajnath Singh, while addressing the media over Pulwama attack said that he has given directions for all necessary steps to be taken in the matter and the fight against terrorism will continue.

“I've requested state governments to extend the maximum help they can lend to the bereaved families. I've given all the necessary directions to the officers. The morale has not taken a hit. We'll see this fight against terrorism to the end,” he said.

“There are some elements here who take money from Pakistan and ISI. I have told the officers that the security provided to such people should be reviewed,” he said.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh meets CRPF jawans injured in the Pulwama attack at a Army base camp in Srinagar.

All party meeting will be held at 11 am on 16 February in Parliament library over the Pulwama attack.

Mumbai's Shri Siddhivinayak Temple trust has announced Rs 51 lakhs as a help for the families of CRPF personnel who lost their lives in the Pulwama attack.

South Korea Foreign Ministry, in an official statement condemned the Pulwama attack and expressed condolences.

“We strongly condemn the terrorist attack on the CRPF in Pulwama, Jammu & Kashmir on 14 February and extend deepest condolences and sympathy to those who lost their lives in the attack and their bereaved families,” the statement read.

“It is our firm position that terrorism is a crime against humanity that cannot be justified under any circumstances and must be eradicated. We will continue to actively work with the international community to eradicate terrorism,” it added.

BJP president Amit Shah’s programme on Saturday in Godda has been cancelled following the Pulwama terror strike that killed 40 CRPF jawans.

Punjab minister Balbir Singh Sidhu cancels his scheduled visit to Lahore to lodge a "strong protest" against the Pulwama terror attack.

The animal husbandry and labour minister was supposed to attend an International Buffalo Congress organised by the University of Animal & Veterinary Sciences, Lahore from 18 to 20 February.

The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) wrote to the CBSE on Friday seeking exemption from the upcoming board examinations and to make alternative arrangements for the children of the CRPF personnel killed in the Pulwama terror attack.

The NCPCR suggested that the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) may issue a circular to schools affiliated with it to exempt children of the slain soldiers from the ongoing and upcoming exams.

The Madhya Pradesh government announced financial help of Rs one crore to the family of the CRPF jawan from the state killed in the Pulwama terror attack.

The martyr Ashwini Kumar Kachhi hailed from Khudawal village in Jabalpur district.

The state government also announced a government job and a house to the jawan's kin.

Saudi Arabia Friday said it stood with India's fight against terrorism and extremism and denounced as "cowardly" the suicide attack carried out in Pulwama.

Strongly condemning the terror attack, the Saudi Foreign Ministry said Riyadh denounced the explosion that targeted a military convoy that killed a number of people and injured many others.

The official Saudi Press Agency, quoting a Foreign Ministry source, stressed the Kingdom rejects these "cowardly terrorist acts" and the Gulf Kingdom stood with the "friendly Republic of India against terrorism and extremism." Riyadh also offered condolences to the families of the victims, the Indian government and the people and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.

A day after 40 CRPF personnel were killed in a terror attack in Pulwama, separatists on Friday said they "regret every killing" on Kashmir's soil.

Separatist leaders Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Yasin Malik stated this in a statement without mentioning the suicide attack by Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed.

"People and leadership of Kashmir regret every killing that happens on its soil," the statement said.

"The delay in the resolution of the Kashmir dispute... is wreaking havoc in Kashmir especially," they said. "If killing and counter killings have to stop and if we really want peace in the region, we have to put an end to hostilities... engage and listen to the concerns of all three stakeholders and address them in the spirit of humanity and justice. Resolve the Kashmir dispute for all times," they added.

Representatives of different diplomatic missions arrive at the Ministry of External Affairs in the backdrop of Pulwama attack.

Representatives from Germany, Hungary, Italy, European Union, Canada, Britain, Russia, Israel, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Sweden, Slovakia, France, Spain and Bhutan have arrived.

Union Minister Piyush Goyal expressed condolences to the families of martyred CRPF jawans and said that India is equipped to give a befitting reply.

“Unfortunate event in which our soldiers gave supreme sacrifice. I'd like to express my condolences to families of noble jawans. I pray God gives their families strength to bear irreparable loss and pray for early recovery and good health of injured jawans,” he said.

“Our armed forces and people of India are competent to give a befitting reply to such forces. Our jawans will ensure that any forces which are enemy to India's interest get a strong rejoinder and people of India will continue to give confidence to them,” he added.

Chinese State Councilor Wang Yi wrote to EAM Sushma Swaraj, condemned the Pulwama attack, expressed deep sympathy to families of victims and injured, and stressed that China resolutely opposes and strongly condemns all forms of terrorism.

A Congress party delegation led by Ghulam Nabi Azad will reach Jammu and Kashmir tomorrow in the backdrop of Pulwama attack, India Today reported.

Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh on Friday called for giving a befitting reply to Pakistan for the attack on CRPF soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama by terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad, saying "the time for peace talks is over and they should be taught a lesson.

Moving a resolution for condemning the terror attack and adjournment of the House, he accused Pakistan of playing a double game, saying "their prime minister (Imran Khan) is talking peace and the general (Qamar Javed Bajwa) is talking war."

"Enough is enough... The time for talking peace is over and I think it is time to teach them a lesson, and I hope the Government of India will understand this point and will take it up," the chief minister said.

Global leaders and representatives of different diplomatic missions have arrived at the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi.

The meeting has representatives from Germany, Hungary, Italy, European Union, Canada, Britain, Russia, Israel, Australia, Japan, South Korea, Sweden, Slovakia, France, Spain, bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Nepal and Bhutan in attendance.

Minisry sources told The Quint that all the HoMs were left in no doubt about the role played by Pakistan based and supported Jaish-e-Mohammed in the terrorist attack and our demand that Pakistan ceases forthwith all support and financing to terror groups operating from areas under their control. Foreign Secretary also highlighted the role played by Pakistan in using terrorism as an instrument of its state policy.

Former civil services officer from J&K, Shah Faesal said that Kahmir has become a high altitude graveyard. Faesal had quit civil services last month over Centre’s alleged flawed policies.

“It’s very hard to speak today. Deepest condolences for the families of those killed. What I have been told is Kashmir has become a high altitude graveyard. It really hurts seeing death and destruction in Kashmir,” he said.

“We’ve seen extinguishing of certain civil spaces of solidarity when it comes to Kashmir. The more these spaces extinguish, more difficult it’ll be to have a dialogue. Killings have become just a statistic for the poll machine to go on,” he added.

“We have an entire population of youngsters who are ready to pick up guns. Military solution is not a solution - I have reiterated it. We can have a Syria and Afghanistan in north India (if the situation goes on),” he said.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said the Pulwama terror attack has shown that it is now time to "strike inside Pakistan".

If an intelligence failure led to the terrorist attack on the CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir, those who were in charge should be removed, he said.

After surgical strikes of 2016, it is now time to "strike inside Pakistan", he said, talking to reporters.

Thackeray said, "The issues of alliances, elections will be there. But Pakistan must not be allowed to go scot- free. It should be taught a befitting lesson."

Congress President Rahul Gandhi is going to Palam Airport where the mortal remains of CRPF jawans, who lost their lives in Pulwama attack, are being brought.

The MEA, after a diplomatic meet of international representatives said that the international community was left in no doubt over Pak’s role in the attack.

The mortal remains of the CRPF jawans martyred in Pulwama arrived at the Delhi airport on Friday, 15 February.

Arvind Kejriwal is reaching Delhi airport to receive bodies of Pulwama martyrs.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has asked ministers in BJP governed states and BJP MPs to attend last rites of jawans, who lost their lives in Pulwama attack, in their respective states and constituencies.

Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis announces compensation of Rs 50 Lakh for the families of the jawans, from the state, who lost their lives in the Pulwama attack.

Rahul Gandhi pays tribute to martyrs at Delhi airport.

Union Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore pays last respects to Pulwama martyrs.

Chief of Army Staff General Bipin Rawat, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa, lay wreaths on the mortal remains of the CRPF jawans.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman paid last respects to Pulwama martyrs.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, 15 February laid wreaths on the mortal remains of the CRPF jawans martyred in the Pulwama attack.

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale met Chinese Ambassador to India Luo Zhaohui separately during the meeting over Pulwama attack, ANI reported quoting sources.

The Foreign Secretary reportedly spoke on Jaish-e-Mohammed and Pakistan. He also mentioned the matter of listing of Masood Azhar by UNSC.

The NIA team, along with explosives and forensic experts have collected materials required for forensic evaluation of scene of crime.

Considering the status, team would continue with sifting of material tomorrow too. Outcome would be made known after analysis is over.

All prior commitments of Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for tomorrow and day after have been cancelled.

She will go to Tamil Nadu and Karnataka to pay last respects to the CRPF jawans of the two states, who lost their lives in Pulwama.

Former President Pranab Mukherjee condemned the attack in Pulwama and said that he was pained by the act of inhumanity.

“I'm extremely pained by this act of inhumanity perpetrated by terrorists. In this hour of grief, we must stand together as a nation. The united front put up by political parties&politicians across the spectrum is a sight of that unity,” he said.

“The response of the international community in condemning this barbarous attack in one voice will strengthen our resolve to fight this menace,” he added.

The UK government on Friday condemned the terrorist attack in Pulwama, which claimed the lives of 40 CRPF jawans in Kashmir, as a "senseless and brutal act".

"Shocked by today's senseless and brutal act of terror in...Kashmir. I offer my sincere condolences to the victims' families. We stand with India," UK Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt said.

His statement came amid a widespread outpouring of support for India in the wake of the attack, with a number of British MPs taking to social media to condemn the terror strike.

The Army has deployed nine security columns with air support in Jammu following massive protests over the terror attack in Pulwama.

Earlier, curfew was imposed in the city after stray incidents of violence and torching of vehicles.

"The Army has reacted promptly. Nine Internal Security Columns (ISCs) of the Army from Tiger division were deployed in Gujjar Nagar, Janipur, Shahidi Chowk, Talab Khatika and other areas of Jammu city. They have been provided air support from the White Knight Corps," a senior army officer said.

Following Pakistan Foreign Secretary's briefing rejecting the country’s involvement in the  Pulwama attack, MEA spokesperson said that Pakistan cannot claim it is unaware of the presence of JeM.

"JeM has  claimed responsibility for the attack. The organization and its leadership are located in Pakistan. LeT and other terror groups have welcomed the news of the attack. These groups are also based in Pakistan. Pakistan cannot claim that it is unaware of their presence and their activities. They have not taken any action against these groups despite international demands, especially against groups and individuals proscribed by the UN and other countries. The links to Pakistan are clear and evident for all to see. Its own  Ministers have shared the same podium with UN proscribed terrorists.

An all-party meeting is scheduled to take place in the parliament, to discuss the next course of action regarding Thursday’s attack in Pulwama. The agenda for the meeting will be to reach a unanimous decision on India’s next course of action.

The meeting was announced by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, after the CCS meeting on Friday that decided on dropping the most favoured nation status for Pakistan. This will be the first all-party-meeting under the PM Modi-led NDA government.

The last time an all-party meeting was held in the backdrop of a terror attack was in September 2016, when the government decided to brief all the parties after it had carried out surgical strikes across LoC. It was just a briefing, not a consultation.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval had a telephone call with his US counterpart Ambassador John Bolton on the evening of 15 February. The call was initiated by the US side to express condolences and outrage over the Pulwama attack by Pakistan-based terrorist group Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM).

Ambassador Bolton supported India's right to self-defence against cross-border terrorism. He offered all assistance to India to bring the perpetrators and backers of the attack promptly to justice. NSA Doval appreciated US support.

They resolved to hold Pakistan to account for its obligations under UN resolutions and to remove all obstacles to designating JeM leader Masood Azhar as a global terrorist under the UN Security Council Resolution 1267 Committee process.

Officials struggled to identify the CRPF personnel killed in the Pulwama terror attack on Thursday afternoon, as the blast mutilated their bodies beyond recognition, The Hindu reported.

After the process of identifying the bodies on Friday, they were placed in caskets, wrapped in the tricolour and were put in a row at Recruit Training Centre at Humhama in Srinagar for the wreath laying ceremony. The bodies were then flown to Delhi later in the day.

Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria, on Saturday 16 February arrived in Delhi for consultations with senior officials and leadership.

CM Nitish Kumar and RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav paid tribute to CRPF personnel Ratan Kumar Thakur and Sanjay Kumar Sinha of Bihar who lost their lives in the Pulwama Attack. Uttarakhand CM Trivendra Singh also paid his respects to CRPF ASI Mohan Lal as soldiers’ remains started reaching their respected homes.

The remains were brought to Delhi for the leaders to pay their tribute to the slain jawans.

PM Modi, Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal, among others paid their tributes to the jawans last night.

The Election Commission’s visit to Jammu and Kashmir to review the preparations for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections is likely to get delayed due to the Pulwama attack, The Hindu reported.

The EC officials are said to discuss the situation in the state at an internal security meeting on Monday, 18 February.

Ahead of the all-party meeting on the Pulwama terror attack, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba has arrived at the residence of Home Minister Rajnath Singh.

The all-party meeting to discuss India’s plan of action has begun in the Parliament, ANI reported.

Congress’ Ghulam Nabi Azad, NCP Chief Sharad Pawar, Farooq Abdullah and CPI leader D Raja among others are attending the meeting, chaired by union Home Minister Rajnath Singh.

A team of National Investigation Agency (NIA) reached the site of Pulwama terror attack for further investigations.

The Hindu reported that a post-blast analysis conducted by the National Security Guard (NSG) has found out that the SUV driven by the bomber was packed with RDX.

While inaugurating several development projects in Maharashtra, PM Modi again touched upon the Pulwama terror strike. He again reiterated his point that the sacrifices will not go in vain, further saying that the security forces are the ones who will decide on the punishment for the people behind the attack.

PM Modi also said that no matter how much the terrorists try to hide, they will definitely be punished.

Gujjar leader Kirori Singh Bainsla has asked his community to put an end to all the agitation across Rajasthan, in the wake of the Pulwama attack.

A youth from Adil Ahmad Dar’s village told The Quint that three young militants of Pulwama—Adil Ahmad Dar, Hilal Ahmad Wani and Samir Ahmad—had helped the dreaded Pakistani commander of Lashkar-e-Tayyiba Naveed Jhaat escape from detention after he managed to receive a pistol and shot dead both the policemen escorting him at SMHS Hospital of Srinagar on 6 February 2018.

India’s envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria has arrived at the Ministry of External Affairs to meet Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale and NSA Ajit Doval, ANI reported. Bisaria was called to New Delhi after the Cabinet Committee of Security meeting to hold consultations on diplomatic action against Pakistan.

Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale met with ambassadors of ASEAN nations today. The MEA has put across detailed evidence of Pakistan sponsored terror in Jammu and Kashmir including the Pulwama attack and prevailed upon the international community to isolate Pakistan, Republic TV reported.

Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad, after the all-party meeting reiterated his party president’s words. He said that the Congress stands with the Central government for the nations’ unity and security.

The resolution from the all-party meeting on the Pulwama terror attack said that the entire nation speaks in one voice to express its determination to fight these challenges.

Members at the all party meeting also expressed their desire for the PM to hold a meeting with the presidents of all national and regional parties to discuss the Pulwama attack further.

Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Shah Mehmood Qureshi, while speaking to CNN News18 denied any links from Pakistan in the Pulwama attack. He said that India has no evidence to prove the fact that Pakistan had anything to do with the attacks.

On Friday, the Pakistan foreign minister had said that India should stop ‘accusing’ his country with ‘baseless accusations’ over its involvement in the Pulwama attacks.

Qureshi was quoted by ARY News as saying that India should desist from leveling allegations against Pakistan. He also said that the Pakistan Prime Minister’s statement in this regard is on record, ANI reported.

Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria has left from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs after consultations with senior officials and leadership.

He had come to Delhi to discuss the Pulwama terror attack on a CRPF convoy with senior officials and leaders of the ministry, ANI reported.

Congress leader Navjot Singh Sidhu has been sacked from Kapil Sharma Show over his remarks on the Pulwama terror attack. The former cricketer had said that an entire nation can not be blamed for the doings of a few people.

Navjot Singh Sidhu appears as a judge on Kapil Sharma’s comedy show.

Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik announced enhancement of ex-gratia for next of the kin of CRPF's Prasanna K Sahoo and Manoj Kumar Behera who lost their lives in the attack. They will be given ex-gratia of Rs 25 lakh each instead of Rs 10 lakh. The state will bear the cost of education cost of their children.

RAW chief AK Dhasmana, Additional Director IB Arvind Kumar, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba and NSA Ajit Doval arrived at Home Minister Rajnath Singh's residence for a high-level meeting. The meeting has begun, reports ANI.

There have been some reports that students and other residents of Jammu & Kashmir are experiencing threats and intimidation in light of Pulwama Attack. Therefore, MHA on Saturday, 16 February, issued an advisory to all states & Union Territories to take necessary measures to ensure their safety and security.

Andhra Pradesh CM N Chandrababu Naidu said that the entire nation is grieving the loss of the brave CRPF Jawans. "In their saddest hour, we stand by the bereaved families. Expressing our deepest sympathies, we extend ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh each, to the families of the martyrs."

Karnataka to give Rs 25 lakh aid to the family of slain CRPF trooper H Guru from Mandya district, who died in the terror attack on February 14, Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy said.

The wreath-laying ceremony of CRPF constable Subramanian G took place at Kovil Patti, Tuticorin in Tamil Nadu.

The last rites ceremony of CRPF Constable Mahesh Kumar, who lost his life in the attack, took place in Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee participates in a candlelight march in Kolkata, as reported by ANI.

Himachal CM Jai Ram Thakur and Union Health Minister JP Nadda on Saturday, 16 February visited the native village of martyred CRPF trooper Tilak Raj in Kangra district and participated in his last rites.

CM Thakur said that apart from a financial assistance of Rs 20 lakh to CRPF martyr Tilak Raj's family, the state will provide all possible assistance to them, including a government job to his wife, reported IANS.

Thousands of school and college students along with their teachers and staff on Saturday, 16 February, observed two-minute silence as a mark of respect to the CRPF jawans who were martyred in a terrorist attack in Pulwama, Jammu & Kashmir.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik had on Friday appealed to all the educational institutions across the state to hold silent prayers in the honour of the slain jawans.

Two jawans from Odisha Prasanna Kumar Sahu of Shikhar village in Jagatsinghpur district and Manoj Kumar Behera of Ratanpur village in Cuttack district were among the 40 martyred CRPF personnel.

The Odisha government has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh each for the families of the two CRPF jawans from the state.

Meanwhile, thousands of people assembled at the Biju Patnaik International Airport here to receive the mortal remains of the two martyrs.

Actor Manoj Bajpayee has condemned the terror attack on a CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir that claimed the lives of at least 40 soldiers.

"What has happened in Pulwama is very sad. My prayers are with the families of soldiers who have lost their dear ones. Their loss is irreparable.

"Words will fall short to express our anger for this kind of heinous act. As far as the anger of the people is concerned, I can say the government will take the right decision and we all should have faith in the government and support it in such circumstances," Bajpayee told reporters here at an event on Friday.

Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi has condemned the suicide attack in Kashmir in which at least 40 CRPF personnel were killed, saying Beijing "resolutely opposes" all forms of terrorism and countries in the region should enhance cooperation and jointly address the threat of posed by it.

At least 40 CRPF personnel were killed and many injured on Thursday in one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir when a Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus in Pulwama district.

In a condolence message to External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Friday, Wang said he was "shocked to learn that a suicide attack was carried out in Kashmir and heavy casualties were caused".

While extending condolences, he said "terrorism is the common enemy of mankind. The Chinese side resolutely opposes and strongly condemns all forms of terrorism".

Expressing sympathy to the families of the victims, he said "countries in the region should enhance cooperation, jointly address the threat of terrorism and maintain regional peace and security".

Security of Kashmiri separatists having suspected links with Pakistani intelligence agency ISI will be withdrawn after an assessment by the Jammu and Kashmir administration, a top official said.

The security review of all such individuals with suspected links with the ISI will be carried out following a suggestion given by the central government, he said.

The Home Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir government will carry out the review of the security of separatists and will take a decision on withdrawal, a security official said.

The state government will do the security review of the separatists as most of them have security being provided by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, he said.

L Eswar Rao, a Bhubaneswar-based artist, has crafted a miniature of "Amar Jawan" in a bottle using clay and cardboard, to pay tribute to the 40 CRPF soldiers who lost their lives in Pulwama Terrorist Attack.

People paid tributes to CRPF Jawan Naseer Ahmed at Rajouri. Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh was also present.

The mortal remains of CRPF Head Constable Bablu Santra and Constable Sudip Biswas brought to Kolkata airport.

The last rites ceremony of CRPF Constable Tilak Raj at Dhewa in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. Union Minister JP Nadda and Chief Minister Jairam Thakur present.

A village panchayat here has asked villagers to evict Kashmiri students living in rented accommodation within 24 hours in the wake of the Pulwama terror attack, according to a video that has surfaced on social media.  Half a dozen Kashmiri students have been shifted to the hostel of the MM University after the purported video appeared.

In the video, Mulana village sarpanch Naresh Rana could be heard asking villagers to evict Kashmiri tenants.

The village head alleged that some Kashmiri students were involved in "suspicious activities".

"The villagers have been asked to vacate Kashmiri students from the rented accommodation... In case it is not done the person in whose residence such students are living will be considered as a traitor," the sarpanch is heard saying. Vishal Garg, one of the trustees of the university, located in Mulana said a few Kashmiri students of the university had requested him to provide them accommodation in the hostel.

The Maharashtra Congress on Saturday, 16 February, accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of getting into campaign mode and raising nationalistic fever centred on the Pulwama attack even as mortal remains of its martyrs was en route to native villages for last rites.

PM Modi was on a day-long visit to Maharashtra Saturday and at public gatherings in Yavatmal and Dhule, he spoke of Thursday's attack on the CRPF convoy and said sacrifice of the martyred jawans wouldn't go in vain and its perpetrators would be punished.

Maharashtra Congress spokesperson Ratnakar Mahajan said, "This has exposed his (PM Modi) false concerns for fallen soldiers. When the country is in mourning over the Pulwama incident, the PM expects opposition parties to stand by the government irrespective of political differences. But, he himself is campaigning for his party and creating a feverish nationalistic pitch."

Prime Minister Narendra Modi asserted on Saturday, 16 February, that each drop of tear shed in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack would be avenged.

Continuing his tough talk in the wake of the ghastly strike that claimed the lives of 40 CRPF jawans Thursday, Modi said this is a "new India" which will not tolerate those who provide guns and bombs to target security personnel.

Addressing a public meeting after inaugurating several development projects here in north Maharashtra, he said anger over the horrific assault in Jammu and Kashmir is palpable in the country and all eyes are moist.

Modi paid tributes to the slain soldiers and hailed their families.

The prestigious Cricket Club of India (CCI) Saturday, 16 February, covered a portrait of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan, in a unique way of protest against the dastardly terror attack on CRPF convoy in Kashmir's Pulwama.

On Thursday, at least 40 CRPF paramilitary troopers were killed in a terror attack while several others are battling for their lives following what is being termed as the deadliest terrorist strike in three decades in Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan-based terror organisation Jaish-e-Mohammad has claimed responsibility for it.

The CCI, which is an affiliated unit of BCCI, is home to the iconic Brabourne Stadium, which has hosted many Test matches and is considered to be a cricketing hub.

The entire CCI premises, including its restaurant, adorn portraits of the greatest cricketers across eras and from all nations.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday, 16 February, met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and sought his intervention to ensure safety of Kashmiri students and traders in various parts of the country.

In his 30-minute-long meeting with the home minister, Abdullah also requested Singh to make sure that peace returns to the Jammu region where violent protests erupted after a suicide attack in Kashmir's Pulwama district killed 40 CRPF jawans.

"Just met Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh Sb to personally pay my condolences for the tragic deaths in Pulwama on Thursday. I requested him to take all steps necessary to ensure Jammu remains calm (sic)," Omar wrote on Twitter.

The family members of CRPF Head Constable Bablu Santra pay tribute in West Bengal’s Howrah.

in Bhopal, CRPF officers and their family members hold a candle march to pay tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in Pulwama Attack.

The mortal remains of CRPF Constable Nitin Shivaji Rathod are being brought for last rites in Chorpangra of Maharashtra.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday, 16 February, led a candle light march to protest the Pulwama attack and said the country stands united by its brave jawans.

The march was held from Hazra crossing in south Kolkata to Mahatma Gandhi's statue in the Mayo Road area.

In one of the deadliest terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, at least 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed and many injured on Thursday when a Jaish-e-Mohammed suicide bomber rammed a vehicle carrying over 100 kg of explosives into their bus in Pulwama district.

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief condemned the attack and said terrorists "have no religion or caste".

Protests have been planned against Pakistan in London outside Pakistan High Commission, as reported by News18.

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik convened a high level meeting at the Raj Bhavan on Saturday, 16 February, and reviewed the present law and order situation in the state in the aftermath of the attack.

The Governor has directed the police to take strict action without mercy against those indulging in any type of violence, arson or rumour mongering irrespective of political and religious affiliation, as reported by ANI.

A dossier, nailing the culpability of Pakistan in the terror attack in Pulwama, will be given to the FATF, an international terror financing watchdog, to expose the neighbouring country's links with terrorism and seeking its blacklisting, officials said on Saturday, 16 February.

Security agencies are preparing the dossier with the evidence gathered so far related to the attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad and the help being provided to the outfit by the country, they said.

This will be a dossier on Pakistani agencies' links with the JeM and how the terror group is being aided by them, a security official said. The details of the terror attacks carried out by the JeM in the past will be mentioned in the document.

The Paris-headquartered Financial Action Task Force (FATF) will also be told through the dossier how the Pakistani agencies are providing funds to the JeM, the official said.

Upon India's withdrawal of MFN (Most Favoured Nation) status to Pakistan after the Pulwama Attack, basic customs duty on all goods exported from Pakistan to India has been raised to 200% with immediate effect, as reported by ANI.

Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) founding leader Altaf Hussain on Saturday said Pulwama terror attack, whcih took place on Thursday, 14 February, would throw the regions into flames of war, as reported by ANI.

"It is an established factor and reality that JeM was founded in Pakistan and operated from Pakistan across the world. It is headquarters is based in Pakistan. The videotaping of the suicide attack proved that JeM is not ordinary terrorist but is an organisation fully by the ghoulish ISI," he said.

The situation in curfew-bound areas of Jammu was under control, District Magistrate Ramesh Kumar said Saturday, asserting that strict action would be taken against those involved in incidents of violence in the city.

He told reporters that police had started investigation to identify the people involved in the sporadic incidents of violence on Friday during protests against the Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF men were killed.

He said some people had suffered minor injuries in incidents of stone-pelting between rival groups and a number of vehicles were also damaged at different locations.

"Strict action will be taken against those responsible for the violence. No leniency will be shown to them," the district magistrate said.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Saturday, 16 February, said nobody can browbeat the country for the brutal Pulwama terror attack even as he offered to fully cooperate in any probe into the incident if India shares any evidence with it, PTI reported.

Qureshi, in a recorded a video message from Germany where he is attending the Munich Security Conference, claimed that without any investigation, India has blamed Pakistan for the Pulwama attack in a knee-jerk reaction.

"It is easy to blame Pakistan but it will not solve the problem and the world will not be convinced," he said in the message released by the ruling Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) on its official Twitter account.

He said nobody can browbeat Pakistan by blaming the country for he attack. "We know how to defend ourselves. We can also present out point of view across the world. Our message is peace and not conflict," Qureshi said.

Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik on Saturday, 16 February, reviewed the law and order situation in the aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack and appealed to the people to maintain peace and communal harmony.

Malik was speaking at a high-level meeting convened at Raj Bhavan here (??) to review the law and order situation after 40 CRPF personnel were killed in a terror attack in Awantipora area of Pulwama district on Thursday, 14 February, an official spokesperson said.

He said the governor directed the police to take strict action without mercy against those indulging in any type of violence, arson or rumour-mongering irrespective of political and religious affiliation. Malik also reviewed the situation of students from Jammu and Kashmir studying in various universities and colleges across the country, the spokesperson said.

Mobile internet services were on Saturday, 16 February, suspended in most parts of Kashmir while the network speed was throttled in other parts as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order, officials said.

Mobile internet has been suspended in south Kashmir's four districts of Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian and Pulwama and central Kashmir's Srinagar and Budgam districts, they said.

The officials said the network speed has been throttled in north Kashmir's Baramulla, Kupwara and Bandipora districts.

They said high speed internet has been suspended as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order in the wake of alleged harassment of Kashmiri people in Jammu and outside the state. The trade bodies in the valley have called for Kashmir bandh on Sunday, 17 February.

The UK government has updated its travel advisory for India, warning against travel to Jammu and Kashmir except very limited areas, as Indian-origin protestors gathered outside the Pakistan High Commission in London on Saturday, 16 February, to protest the brutal Pulwama terror attack in the state.

Forty CRPF personnel were killed and five others critically injured when a suicide bomber rammed a vehicle laden with explosives into their bus in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on Thursday, 14 February.

The Pakistan-based terror group Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) has claimed responsibility for the attack on the convoy of 78 vehicles that was on its way from Jammu to Srinagar.

The UK's Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO), which earlier condemned the "senseless and brutal act", has warned British nationals to avoid the border areas with Pakistan as well as tourist hotspots.

The Uttar Pradesh Police on Saturday, 16 February, arrested four people for allegedly making objectionable comments in connection with the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

Three of them -- a man from Ballia, a person from Mau district and a first-year student of a private college here -- were arrested for making the remarks on social media and another from Siddarthanagar for allegedly raising pro-Pakistan slogans at a meeting and then posting it on Facebook.

Police in Ballia registered a case against a man under provisions of the Information Technology (IT) Act and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) after his post supporting the attack on Facebook went viral.

"Ravi Prakash Maurya, who claims to be a SP (Samajwadi Party) supporter on Facebook, has allegedly extended support to the act of the person accused of attacking the CRPF jawans in Pulwama. He expressed pride over the incident and also paid tribute," acting Superintendent of Police Vijay Pal Singh said.

Assistant to the US President Donald Trump John Bolton tweeted, "I expressed condolences to NSA Doval yesterday for the reprehensible terrorist attack on India. Pakistan must crack down on JeM and all terrorists operating from its territory. Countries should uphold UNSC responsibilities to deny safe haven and support for terrorists."

The mortal remains of CRPF constable Koushal Kumar Rawat were brought back to Agra’s Kahrai in Uttar Pradesh for the last rites. Family members and villagers were present in huge numbers to pay tribute to the martyred jawan.

The J&K administration on Sunday withdrew the security cover of five separatist leaders, including Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umar Farooq.

No security cover will be provided under any pretext to these five leaders and other separatists, officials reportedly said.

Apart from Farooq, the security cover of Shabir Shah, Hashim Qureshi, Bilal Lone and Abdul Ghani Bhat has been withdrawn.

The CRPF on Sunday issued an advisory against the circulation of fake photos and posts in the aftermath of the Pulwama attack to invoke hatred.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh observes 1-minute silence during a public rally in Bhadrak, for the CRPF personnel who lost their lives in the Pulwama attack. Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan was also present.

PM Modi while addressing a rally in Jharkhand’s Hazaribagh paid tribute to Vijay Soren, the CRPF jawan from Jharkhand martyred in the Pulwama attack.

Israel and Palestine have both condemned the "abhorrent" and "heinous" Pulwama terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir and expressed their condolences.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas in his messages to President Ram Nath Kovind and Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the Palestinians are "saddened by the tragic attack... and on this painful occasion, they express condemnation of this terrorist attack".

"On this painful occasion, we condemn this abhorrent act and we offer condolences to you, your people, your government and the families of the victims. We express our alliance and solidarity with you and your people. May god have mercy on the victims and their families," Abbas wrote in his letter to PM Modi.

Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh met the parents of deceased CRPF Constable Kulwinder Singh at their village in Anandpur Sahib. He announced that the local school and link road connecting the village to Anandpur Sahib would be named after the jawan.

“Apart from ex-gratia worth Rs 12 lakh, special monthly pension of Rs 10,000 per month will be given to his parents for life, as the deceased soldier had no children whom we could provide job,” he told the media

PDP's Suhail Bukhari said that the rational behind removing the security provided to separatists is questionable.

“There is a consultative committee which comprises senior officers from security, intelligence agencies. They do threat perception assessment and decide who is to be given what type of protection. How rational this decision would be, we've our doubts on that,” he said.

The MHA clarifies that the reports that appeared in a section of media that air transit facility on Jammu- Srinagar sector for CRPF troops was not allowed are untrue.

People in huge numbers gathered at India Gate to pay tribute to the CRPF personnel who lost their lives in the Pulwama attack.

India has not informed Pakistan that it was withdrawing the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to it, a senior Pakistani official told PTI Sunday, after New Delhi took strong economic action against Islamabad following the Pulwama terror attack.

Two days after India made the announcement, Adviser to Prime Minister Imran Khan on Commerce Abdul Razak Dawood said New Delhi has not informed Islamabad about withdrawing Pakistan's MFN status, Geo News reported.

Dawood said, "We are looking into the withdrawal of the MFN status by India. We can speak to India about this issue".

He further said Pakistan can raise this issue at different forums including the World Trade Organisation (WETO) as both countries are members of the global trade body.

Youth in Maharashtra’s Buldhana tonsured their head to pay homage to the CRPF jawans who lost their lives in the Pulwama attack.

Candle light march being held at Connaught Place to pay tribute to the the CRPF jawans who lost their lives in the Pulwama attack.

A candle light march was held in Bihar’s Gaya by CRPF personnel, their families and other civilians to pay tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in the Pulwama attack.

Mobile internet services were restored in Kashmir, a day after they were suspended as a precautionary measure to maintain law and order.

High speed mobile internet was restored across Kashmir Valley on Sunday night.

The services were restored as the situation remained peaceful in the Valley.

Authorities on Saturday snapped mobile internet services in Anantnag, Kulgam, Shopian, Pulwama, Srinagar and Budgam districts, while network speed was throttled in north Kashmir's Baramulla, Kupwara and Bandipora districts.

The step was taken to maintain law and order in the wake of targeting of Kashmiris in Jammu and outside the state following the Pulwama attack in which 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

An encounter broke out between terrorists and security forces in Pulwama’s Pinglan area on Monday morning, reported ANI.

Two-three terrorists are reportedly trapped.

Four Armymen, including a Major, were killed in an encounter that broke out between terrorists and security forces in Pinglan area of Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama on Monday, 18 February.

According to reports, a civilian has also been killed in the Pulwama encounter.

According to reports, firing has resumed at the encounter site in Pulwama as the area is under cordon. The operation is still on.

A Pakistan-based terrorist Kamran and a local named Hilal are believed to be trapped at the encounter site in Pulwama, reported CNN-News18.