Pahalgam Terror Attack LIVE Updates: Pakistan's ambassador seeks Russia's help in de-escalating crisis with India

Pakistan's ambassador in Moscow has sought Russia's help in des-escalating the crisis with New Delhi caused in the aftermath of the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam in which 26 people were killed. In an interview to be published later by TASS news agency, Ambassador Mohammad Khalid Jamali said that Russia has a privileged strategic partnership with India and also very good relations with Pakistan and could use its good offices to mediate like in Tashkent 1966, when the erstwhile Soviet premier helped in ending the armed conflict.

Meanwhile, on Friday during his phone call with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov urged the two sides to de-escalate following the Pahalgam attack in the spirit of 1972 Simla Accord and 1999 Lahore Declaration which provide for bilaterally resolving issues without third party mediation.

Ties between India and Pakistan plummeted following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir that killed 26 people, mostly tourists, in the deadliest attack in the Valley since the Pulwama strike in 2019.

The National Commission for Women (NCW) has extended its support to Himanshi Narwal, wife of Lieutenant Vinay Narwal who was among those killed in a recent terror attack in Pahalgam, saying it is not right to troll a woman on the basis of her ideological expression or personal life. Himanshi Narwal had asked people not to target Muslims and Kashmiris following the April 22 terror attack near south Kashmir's Pahalgam, in which 26 people, mostly tourists, were killed.

"We do not want people going after Muslims and Kashmiris," she said on Thursday.

Following her statement, the slain Army officer's wife was reportedly trolled on social media platforms.

In a statement posted on X, the NCW condemned the online trolling she has faced.

Referring to the widespread social media criticism of her remarks, the NCW wrote, "After the death of Lieutenant Vinay Narwal, the way his wife Himanshi Narwal is being criticised on social media in relation to one of her statements is unfortunate."

Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora on Sunday took potshots at Uddhav Thackeray for being on vacation in Europe "while bullets flew in Pahalgam". By contrast, Shiv Sena chief and Maharashtra deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde helped the victims, Deora said in a post on X.

"From sons of the soil to tourists of India'...how far the Thackerays have fallen. While bullets flew in #Pahalgam, they were vacationing in Europe. On #Maharashtra Day, they vanished without a word. No statement. No solidarity...," said Deora, a former Congress Lok Sabha member from Mumbai.

Shinde "led from the front, stood with victims & honoured our heroes," he said, apparently referring to the deputy CM's initiative to bring back stranded tourists in the aftermath of the April 22 attack in south Kashmir.

Maharashtra needs "warriors on duty, not part-time Netas on holiday", Deora quipped.

Hitting back, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Vinayak Raut said Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not visit Jammu and Kashmir after the attack.

"My question to the PM is did he go to Jammu and Kashmir and take stock of the security situation? Why did the PM not meet the families whose kin were killed in the attack? It is unfortunate that the PM did not have the time for the same," Raut said.

Shiv Sena (UBT) sources said the Thackerays were expected to be back from their vacation on Sunday.

Kanbai Shivji Hirani, one of the women who helped rebuild the Indian Air Force airstrip in Bhuj during the 1971 India-Pak war, has called for strong action against Pakistan following the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam. “Today, what Pakistan has done (in Pahalgam) is very wrong,” she said. Recalling her role in the 1971 war, Hirani shared how over 300 women, including herself, worked under threat of bombing to rebuild the runway, often hiding when sirens went off. Now, she urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to respond firmly, saying, “PM Modi should take action on this, stop the water and food supply to Pakistan. The only way they will understand things is to stop it.”

Amid rising India-Pakistan tensions, Ferozepur Cantonment conducted a 30-minute blackout rehearsal to assess security readiness. The power outage, accompanied by hooters, was a routine drill, according to Deputy Commissioner Deepshikha Sharma, who assured residents there was no cause for alarm. Security measures were heightened, with police monitoring anti-social elements and the BSF increasing border patrols.

Sanjay Raut, a prominent Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, criticised the Central government over Pahalgam terror attack. He labelled the government's measures, including the ban on Pakistani YouTube channels ineffective and questioned their approach to addressing the situation.

The Rajya Sabha member expressed disappointment over the government's actions following the tragic incident where innocent lives were lost. "It has been 12 days since innocent people were killed (in Pahalgam terror attack). And the news we see is the government is tightening the noose (around Pakistan). They reduced the staff in the Pakistan High Commission and shut the airspace (for Pakistani flights). Is this called revenge?" he said.

Raut further questioned the effectiveness of banning Pakistani YouTube channels as a retaliatory measure. Drawing a comparison with previous leadership, he referenced Indira Gandhi's administration, stating "Is this revenge? See Indira Gandhi's history? The government has not taken any revenge."

The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf of incarcerated former premier Imran Khan announced to skip the key government briefing on the current situation between Pakistan and India. This decision was announced in a statement by the party's political committee.

"Since this is merely a government briefing and there does not appear to be any serious attempt to build a national consensus, nor is there any intention to include an important national leader like Imran Khan, we believe that the participation of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in this briefing is not necessary," the PTI said, as quote by news agency PTI.

"His (Khan) stance is self-explanatory, and the insight and courage with which he has conveyed the message of unity to the nation is a reflection of the thinking of a national leader," the party said.

It asked the government to immediately convene an All-Parties Conference (APC) to take all national parties into confidence and formulate a common course of action. "Unfortunately, the government wasted this opportunity. Not only was the APC not convened, but instead a one-sided briefing is being given by a government minister," it said.

Lok Sabha MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra affirmed Congress's complete support for any governmental action responding to the Pahalgam terrorist attack, which resulted in 26 civilian deaths. The Congress Working Committee has passed a resolution reflecting this united stance. She expressed hope that the Union government would act decisively to avenge the killings of innocent civilians and firmly address Pakistan's support of terrorism.

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar emphasised on Sunday that India, under competent leadership, is effectively addressing the Pahalgam terror situation. During his speech to students and faculty at the Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Agriculture University in Gwalior, he said, "Bhartiyata is our identity and there is no dharma above Rashtra Dharma".

"Rajamata's life was an inspiration. She lived a life of sacrifice and dedication. Today, Bharat is facing the Pahalgam challenge....but today there is a powerful Bharat with an able leadership," he added, as quoted by news agency ANI.

During a phone call with Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Sunday, Pakistan's Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif denied any connection between Pakistan and the Pahalgam terror incident, as reported by media sources, quoted by news agency PTI.

Sharif dismissed attempts to associate Pakistan with the incident without proper evidence and reaffirmed Pakistan's proposal for an "international, transparent, credible and neutral investigation" to establish the facts surrounding the terror attack.

Additionally, the prime minister expressed Pakistan's willingness to include Malaysia in the investigative process.

The relationship between India and Pakistan deteriorated significantly after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in 26 fatalities, predominantly tourists, marking it as the most severe attack in the Valley since the 2019 Pulwama incident.

Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora on Sunday took potshots at Uddhav Thackeray for being on vacation in Europe "while bullets flew in Pahalgam".

By contrast, Shiv Sena chief and Maharashtra deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde helped the victims, Deora said in a post on X. "From sons of the soil to tourists of India'...how far the Thackerays have fallen. While bullets flew in Pahalgam, they were vacationing in Europe.

Pakistan will brief the UN Security Council regarding recent regional tensions following the Pahalgam terror incident, according to their foreign office's Sunday announcement.

The statement indicated that Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar instructed Pakistan's UN Permanent Representative, Ambassador Asim Iftikhar, to initiate immediate action to organise a Security Council meeting, as reported by news agency PTI.

This action follows heightened tensions between Pakistan and India after the Pahalgam terror incident. The attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam on April 22 resulted in 26 casualties, marking the most severe incident in the Valley since the 2019 Pulwama attack.

The Congress party urged the Central government to respond decisively against Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror incident, emphasising that the nation anticipates Prime Minister Narendra Modi's response. During the Samvidhan Bachao rally, AICC General Secretary K C Venugopal questioned the government's inaction, noting that a fortnight had elapsed since the Kashmir attack without any concrete measures being taken.

"Why has there been no action other than your threats through microphones and public meetings? The country is waiting for action from you, Mr Modi," Venugopal said.
"The country wants to see your actions, not just challenges through words. The Congress and the INDIA alliance are with you in teaching Pakistan a lesson," he said.
The Alappuzha MP called on the Prime Minister directly, saying, "You have a 54-inch chest -- now is the time to display it, and we are with you."

Rajnath Singh, the Union Defence Minister, emphasised on Sunday that the government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, remains committed to implementing essential measures to protect national security.

At a public gathering in Delhi, he stated, "I want to assure you that under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, what you desire will certainly happen." This statement was delivered during his address about India's defence forces, although he made no direct reference to the April 22 Pahalgam attack.

Amid escalating tensions following the Pahalgam massacre, BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari claimed that panic has gripped Pakistan's leadership. He alleged that Pakistani ministers and army generals are booking tickets to flee the country, fearing a decisive response from India under Prime Minister Modi's leadership.

"We will become truly 'Viksit Bharat' if we become strong economically as well as culturally and spiritually," he said.

"You know our PM very well, you are familiar with his working style, determination," said the defence minister Rajnath Singh at event in Delhi.

"India's power not only in its armed forces but also in its culture, spirituality: Rajnath Singh at 'Sanatan Sanskrit Jagran Mahotsav'," he said.

"I want to assure you that under PM Narendra Modi's leadership, what you desire will certainly happen," said the union defence minister.

The union defence minister was speaking at an event in Delhi.

Days before the Pahalgam massacre, terror chatter picked up from across the border indicated terrorists' plans to hit tourist places in J&K, particularly hotels on outskirts of Srinagar, more specifically areas like Dachigam, etc, senior officials following the investigations told TOI on Saturday.J&K Police sources, however, insisted that while intelligence was available on likely terror plans to target tourists and hotels, it was generic in nature, also naming non-local migrant labourers, Hindu pilgrims and Kashmiri pandits as potential targets and several areas like Kulgam, Pulwama, etc, as "vulnerable spots". There was no mention of Baisaran, which had no history of terror activity or attacks, in these inputs. The intelligence was followed up, with J&K Police brass camping in Srinagar to ensure that security at several prominent tourist places and hotels was tightened.

At the 'Shraddhanjali Sabha' held at the residence of late Navy officer Vinay Narwal in Karnal, Suman Saini, wife of the Haryana CM, offered her respects to the navy officer who lost his life in the Pahalgam terror attack.

After the ceremony, she told reporters, "Today is a deeply sorrowful day. The family lost their beloved son, and I pray to God to give them strength. The terror attack of April 22 is beyond condemnation. The entire nation mourns this loss."

The CM's wife presented floral tributes and conveyed her sympathies to the bereaved family. Haryana Minister Harvinder Kalyan attended the memorial service and noted its emotional significance. "Thousands gathered today to pay homage to the young officer. His life had just begun, and it is heartbreaking that it was cut short in such a tragic manner. We stand in full solidarity with the family," he said at the gathering.

VK Birdi, IGP Kashmir, conducted a comprehensive security assessment in the Valley on Sunday, following the Pahalgam terror incident last month. "IGP Kashmir V K Birdi held a joint security review meeting today at PCR Kashmir, which was attended by officers from multiple security forces, including the Police, Army, Intelligence Agencies, and CAPFs," according to a police spokesperson.

Officers provided detailed briefings regarding the current security situation, with particular emphasis on existing challenges within the Valley.

"The discussions focused on intelligence gathering, threat assessments, emergency response preparedness, and inter-agency coordination," the spokesperson said.
IGP Kashmir emphasised the importance of strengthening collaboration between security and intelligence organisations to ensure efficient information exchange and coordinated operational readiness.

The spokesperson indicated that the joint security review demonstrated the unified commitment of all security and intelligence agencies towards maintaining stability and peace in the Kashmir Valley.

Congress leader Sachin Pilot said that the recent terror attack in Pahalgam constituted an assault on the entire nation, asserting India's readiness to deliver a "befitting reply" to Pakistan.

In his statement to ANI, Sachin Pilot said, "The terrorist attack incident on innocent, unarmed civilians in Pahalgam is not just a terrorist attack -- it is an attack on the country. India is ready to give a befitting reply to Pakistan. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Mallikarjun Kharge have all said this... Not just the opposition, but 140 crore people in the country are united to eradicate terrorism."

He emphasised that the government should take decisive action without reservation, stating, "Whatever steps the Centre needs to take, it should take without hesitation. When such attacks are carried out, a strong and effective reply must follow."

He further stated that Pakistan's attempts to compromise national unity require a response that would prevent future occurrences of such incidents.

BJP supporters at Charminar demonstrated and chanted slogans condemning the Pahalgam terror attack, while demanding the deportation of Pakistani nationals from the country.

The demonstrators displayed placards with messages such as "Modi ji sangarsh karo, desh apke sath hai", and 'Pahalgam ka badla lekar rahenge,' and "Go back, Pakistanis, go back,", as reported by ANi.

Speaking to ANI, BJP leader T Uma Mahendra, who took part in the demonstration, stated, "Terror attacks happen in various corners of the country, but they (attackers) are arrested from Hyderabad. Which means the city is a safe zone for them. I demand that the Telangana government and Asaduddin Owaisi identify Pakistanis door to door and send them back..."

Asaduddin Owaisi has issued a stern criticism of Pakistan, describing it as a "failed nation" that promotes terrorism. In response to the Pahalgam incident, he spoke against sectarian rifts and called for solidarity to counter forces attempting to destabilise India. Various opposition groups have urged the administration to implement resolute steps to deliver justice to the affected families and eliminate terrorism, whilst offering complete backing for government initiatives.

Chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Sunday conveyed his appreciation to Kashmiri tourist guide Nazakat Ahmad Shah for protecting Chhattisgarh tourists during the Pahalgam terror incident. He highlighted that certain individuals are responsible for tarnishing the reputation of the Muslim community. "All Muslims aren't bad and the community is becoming infamous due to some people," Sai stated whilst speaking exclusively to PTI.

TMC's Rajya Sabha MP, Saket Gokhale, questioned IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw claiming lack of response towards social media accounts, allegedly linked to the BJP, that were posting inappropriate and hostile remarks. These comments targeted the spouse of a Naval officer who lost his life in the April 22 Pahalgam terror incident, following her call for comunal harmony, said Gokhale.

On the social platform X, Gokhale stated, "It is shocking to see the obscene & hateful comments being directed towards the widow of the Navy officer who was killed in Pahalgam. Most accounts spreading venom are BJP-affiliated. Why? Only because she appealed for communal harmony." He directly addressed Electronics and IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, questioning, "IT Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw should answer - why aren't these accounts being taken down or blocked? Are trolls from your party immune from the ambit of the law even when they target a victim & a widow of a slain armed forces officer? Is this your "nationalism"?"

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) alleged that the Pahalgam terror incident resulted from a significant security failure requiring investigation and accountability.

Following a Polit Bureau meeting, the CPI(M) issued a statement requesting the government to compile a comprehensive report on the Pahalgam incident for international presentation. The party insisted on locating and prosecuting the attackers, stating, "The terrorist attack was the result of a major security lapse. This must be enquired into and responsibility fixed so that remedial measures are taken."

During the Polit Bureau meeting, members observed a minute's silence to honour the 26 individuals who lost their lives in the April 22 attack.

The Polit Bureau denounced the social media harassment of Muslims and Kashmiris, along with physical assaults on individual citizens.

Acknowledging the government's diplomatic initiatives against Pakistan regarding terrorist organisations operating from their territory, the CPI(M) emphasised the need to identify the attackers and their coordinators, suggesting the creation of a detailed report for international consideration.

The party also recommended presenting the matter to the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) for appropriate action, adding, "The government should seriously weigh whether a military response will serve the purpose of curbing cross-border terrorism and act as a deterrent."

Union minister Sukanta Majumdar issued a call for the identification and deportation of all Pakistani nationals residing unlawfully in India, particularly in West Bengal. His statement followed the apprehension of a Pakistani woman who had allegedly been living in West Bengal's Chandannagar for approximately 45 years, which he cited as evidence of inadequate monitoring of such illegal activities in the state.

The West Bengal Police detained a Pakistani citizen in Hooghly district on Saturday, who had reportedly remained in India beyond her authorised stay after entering on a tourist visa in 1980.

"We want all Pakistan citizens staying illegally in the country, including in Bengal, be identified, apprehended and sent back to their native country," stated Majumdar, who serves as the BJP's West Bengal state president, whilst addressing journalists in Balurghat town of Dakshin Dinajpur district.

"We (BJP) will hold demonstrations with the demand in front of all district headquarters on Monday before giving the deputation," Majumdar announced.

The Amritsar Rural Police arrested Palak Sher Masih and Suraj Masih in a counter-espionage operation for their alleged role in the sensitive information and photographs of Army Cantonment areas and Air Bases in Amritsar.

According to police officials, in the preliminary investigation on Saturday, it was found that the two accused had links with Pakistani intelligence operatives, which was established through Harpreet Singh alias Pittu, currently lodged in Amritsar Central Jail.

"Preliminary investigation reveals their links to Pakistani intelligence operatives, established through Harpreet Singh @ Pittu @ Happy, currently lodged in Amritsar Central Jail. A case has been registered under the Official Secrets Act, and the investigation is ongoing. Further critical revelations are expected as the probe deepens. Punjab Police stands strong with Indian Army, remains unwavering in its duty to safeguard national interests. Any attempt to undermine the security of our armed forces will be met with firm and immediate action", an 'X' post from Punjab DGP said.

A case has been registered against both the accused under the Official Secrets Act, and further investigation is underway. As the probe deepens, other revelations are expected to emerge.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders held a protest at Charminar on Sunday, demanding that Pakistani nationals living in Hyderabad be identified and deported. BJP leader T Uma Mahendra alleged that, "Terror attacks happen in various corners of the country, but they (attackers) are arrested from Hyderabad. Which means the city is a safe zone for them. I demand that the Telangana government and Asaduddin Owaisi identify Pakistanis door to door and send them back."

BJP leader Ajay Alok on Sunday welcomed the Union goverment's decision to ban Pakistani ships from entering Indian seaports, saying that India should sever all ties with a nation that "produces terrorists."

"This step is welcome. We should not maintain any relationship with a country that hates us and breeds terrorists. Pakistani ships will no longer be allowed at Indian ports. We will impose an economic blockade on Pakistan and isolate them from all sides. The pressure and heat are being felt in Pakistan and will continue to increase," Alok said while speaking to ANI.

On Saturday, amid rising tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, India imposed a ban on Pakistani ships from ports to 'ensure the safety of assets.'

The Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways issued a statement saying that ships bearing Pakistan flag shall not be allowed to visit any Indian port.

Similarly, a ship bearing the tricolor is barred from visiting any ports of Pakistan, the statement said.

As per the ministry, the objective of act is to foster the development and ensure the efficient maintenance of an Indian mercantile marine, in a manner best suited to serve the national interests.

All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi on Sunday said that during the all party meeting held following the terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam in which 26 people lost their lives, opposition parties had urged the central government to take decisive steps and provide justice to families of victims.

Talking to reporters in Bihar's Darbhanga, Owaisi said, "During the all-party meeting, the opposition asked the government to take action (against the Pahalgam attack) and give justice to the victims' families and eliminate terrorism. Whatever action the government takes, we are with them, but what they will do and when, they need to say that."

The AIMIM leader underscored the persistent threat of cross-border terrorism, pointing to past attacks carried out by Pakistan-based militants. "It is true that terrorists from Pakistan come to India and kill our people, whether it is 26/11, Pathankot air base, Uri attack, Pulwama attack," he said.

Meanwhile, amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday.

On Saturday the Navy Chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi met with PM Modi at his Lok Kalyan Marg residence in the national capital.

India has stanched the flow of water through the Baglihar Dam on the Chenab River and is planning similar measures at the Kishanganga Dam on the Jhelum River, a source said. The source familiar with the matter said these hydroelectric dams -- Baglihar in Ramban in Jammu and Kishanganga in north Kashmir -- offer India the ability to regulate the timing of water releases.

India's decision to suspend the decades-old treaty follows the killing of 26 people, mostly tourists, in a terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.

The Indus Waters Treaty, brokered by the World Bank, has governed the use of the Indus River and its tributaries between India and Pakistan since 1960.

The Baglihar Dam has been a longstanding point of contention between the two neighbours, with Pakistan having sought World Bank arbitration in the past.

The Kishanganga Dam has faced legal and diplomatic scrutiny, especially regarding its impact on the Neelum River, a tributary of the Jhelum.

Making a comparison on different economic parameters, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has said that India is racing ahead by setting global benchmarks, but Pakistan still grapples with recurring crises and shrinking influence in the world. In a post on X, Sarma on Saturday night said that India presently stands as one of the world's most dynamic, resilient and forward-looking nations.

"While Pakistan grapples with recurring crises and shrinking influence, India is racing ahead, setting global benchmarks in growth, technology, and self-reliance," he added.

Sarma pointed out that India's GDP currently stands at USD 4.19 trillion, making it the fifth largest economy in the world, while the same of Pakistan is just USD 357 billion which is less than what a single state like Maharashtra contributes.

"From railways to rocket launches, India is building for the future. With a record USD 688.13 billion in (forex) reserves, India has one of the strongest financial cushions on the planet," he added.

In the case of Pakistan, the forex reserves stand at around USD 15.66 billion with frequent IMF dependency just to cover basic imports, the CM claimed.

"India clocked USD 825 billion in exports in FY 2024–25 - supplying everything from software to steel, vaccines to vehicles," he said, adding that Pakistan exported barely USD 35 billion, which is still reliant on raw textiles and rice with little industrial diversification.

Just 16 kilometres from the historic Longewala post rests Samdhey Khan Ki Dhani, a small, quiet village on the India-Pakistan border. Home to around 150 to 200 residents, all from the Muslim community, this village is making headlines for all the right reasons: its unwavering patriotism and strong condemnation of terrorism.

In the aftermath of the recent terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam, Kashmir, the villagers have voiced deep sorrow and called for a strong response.

Ahmed Khan, a resident of the village, expressed grief over the killing of tourists in the Pahalgam terrorist attack and said that the government must take action against those involved. Khan said his elders had assisted the Army with water during the Kargil war.

"This is the last village on the border. We are all Muslim residents in this village. The Pahalgam attack was extremely wrong - those people were just tourists," Khan told ANI.

"We live in harmony here. We have been living here for 40 to 50 years. During the Kargil War, the Army was here, and we served them as well. During the 1965 and 1971 wars, this village saw a large movement of Indian forces. We stood by them then, and we stand by them now. We were born in this soil and will be buried in it. Whatever action the government takes, we stand with it completely," he added.

An ordnance factory in Jabalpur's Khamaria has cancelled the leaves of all officers and employees with immediate effect as per an official.

Deputy Director, Works Manager Avinash Shankar, cited an order issued by the Chief General Manager, the leave of the employees and officers who applied for more than two days was cancelled following a meeting on Thursday.

The official added that the decision was taken to meet production targets.

The decision came in the aftermath of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir, which led to the death of 26 people, mostly tourists.

This has led to growing tension between India and Pakistan, with the central government announcing several diplomatic measures, such as closing the Integrated Check Post (ICP) at Attari, suspending the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) for Pakistani nationals, giving them 40 hours to return to their country, and reducing the number of officers in the High Commissions on both sides.

Former Congress leader Acharya Pramod Krishnam condemned Congress leader Charanjit Singh's statement on doubts over the 2019 air strike conducted by the Indian armed forces in response to the Pulwama attack, which claimed the lives of 40 CRPF soldiers.

"Former Punjab CM Charanjit Singh Channi stands with terrorists, separatists," Krishnam said, adding, "It is very unfortunate that a former CM of Punjab questions the Indian Army and India's valour. The question is not about Narendra Modi, the BJP, or the Congress; the question is about India's existence and identity. This is a fight for India's existence...", Acharya Krishnam told ANI on Sunday.

The former Congress member further accused Rahul Gandhi of "attacking" PM Modi and simultaneously asking Congress leaders to "support Pakistan internally".

"It is part of Rahul Gandhi's strategy that he says he stands with the government, with the country and asks his leaders to attack the government, PM Modi, and support Pakistan internally...," he stated.

Hours after being dismissed from service for "concealing" his marriage with a Pakistani woman, CRPF trooper Munir Ahmed said he solemnized his marriage nearly a month after getting permission from the force's headquarters last year. Ahmed, a resident of Gharota area of Jammu who had joined CRPF in April 2017, said he will challenge his dismissal in the court of law. "I am sure of getting justice".
The Central Reserve Police Force has dismissed Ahmed for "concealing" his marriage with Pakistani woman Minal Khan and knowingly harbouring her beyond the validity of her visa, saying his actions were detrimental to national security.

"I initially came to know about my dismissal through media reports. I shortly received a letter from the CRPF informing me about the dismissal which came as a shock to me and my family as I have sought and received permission for my marriage to a Pakistani woman from the headquarters," Ahmad on Saturday told PTI over phone from his house.

Ahmed's marriage with Khan came to light after India asked Pakistani nationals to leave the country as part of diplomatic measures taken in the wake of the Pahalgam terrorist attack in which 26 people were killed.

Khan entered India through the Wagah-Attari border on February 28 and her short-term visa ended on March 22. However, her deportation was stayed by the high court and she is presently staying in Ahmed's Jammu residence.

resident Droupadi Murmu on Saturday welcomed Angolan President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco at Rashtrapati Bhavan and expressed gratitude for his solidarity and condemnation of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

In her welcome speech, President Murmu said, "I am very pleased to welcome President Joao Lourenco of Angola and his delegation to Rashtrapati Bhavan. President Lourenco is on his first State visit to India. This is a historic occasion as this is the first high-level visit between us in the last four decades, and it comes at a time when both countries are celebrating forty years of establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations."

In her remarks, President Murmu highlighted that terror attack in Pahalgam demonstrated that the international community needs to take concrete steps to prevent terrorism.

"I would like to thank you on behalf of the Government and the people of India for the strong support you have expressed following the horrific terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. This incident has once again demonstrated that the international community needs to take concrete steps to prevent terrorism and those who promote it," she said.

President Murmu also acknowledged Angola's role in promoting peace across the African continent, saying, "We appreciate the role you have played as a mediator in the ongoing conflicts in the Middle and West Africa region. India stands by your commitment to promoting peace and security in the African continent."

Defence minister Rajnath Singh will not likely attend Russia's Victory Day parade to be held in Moscow on May 9 to mark the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's win over Germany in World War II, amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack.

Minister of State for defence Sanjay Seth, may represent India at the event in Moscow, the officials said on Saturday.

The decision comes amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

While no official reason has been cited for Singh's absence, sources within the Ministry of Defence suggested that the security situation arising from the Pahalgam attack played a significant role in the decision.

Jassim Al Budaiwi, Secretary-General of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), expressed the Council's deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in South Asia, urging restraint, prioritisation of dialogue, and the urgent resumption of negotiations between India and Pakistan.

He condemned the terrorist attack targeting tourists in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in the death and injury of numerous innocent civilians, stressing the importance of peaceful means to resolve disputes in accordance with international law and the Charter of the United Nations to safeguard security, peace and stability in the region.

The Secretary-General reaffirmed the GCC's principled and consistent stance in rejecting all forms and manifestations of terrorism.

He also reiterated the GCC states' call for the international community to intensify efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the Jammu and Kashmir issue in accordance with relevant UN Security Council resolutions

During the night of 03–04 May 2025, Pakistan Army posts resorted to unprovoked small arms fire across the LoC in areas opposite Kupwara, Baramulla, Poonch, Rajauri, Mendhar, Naushera, Sunderbani, and Akhnoor in J&K. Indian Army responded promptly and proportionately: Indian Army

The Indian Army issues tender to procure shoulder-fired Very Short Range Air Defence Systems (Next Generation) to take out enemy aircraft, choppers and drones, defence officials said.
The Army has placed requirements for 48 launchers, 85 missiles along with other required equipment, under 'Make in India', they added.

A woman teacher at a government primary school has been suspended for allegedly posting objectionable remarks on social media about the Pahalgam terror attack and the recent killing of a Muslim man in Agra, officials said on Saturday. Jeba Afroz, an assistant teacher at Maloghat, Chopan, was suspended for sharing the content on her Facebook account, according to Basic Shiksha Adhikari Mukul Anand Pandey.

Pandey stated that Afroz’s actions violated the government employee code of conduct and were unbecoming of a teacher’s role and dignity.