Don’t communalise, says Army after Owaisi reveals religion of martyred soldiers

coastaldigest.com news network
February 14, 2018

The Indian army on Wednesday, Feb 14, indirectly asked politicians not to communalise martyrs, a day after AIMIM president and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi revealed that five out of seven soldiers killed in the Sunjuwan military camp attack were Muslims.

"We don't communalise martyrs, those making statements don't know the army well," said Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Devraj Anbu.

On Tuesday Owaisi slammed those questioning the patriotism of Muslims, while making a reference to the fact that five army soldiers killed by terrorists at the Sunjuwan army camp in Jammu were Muslims.

General Anbu also expressed concern over the local youth in Kashmir joining militancy saying "the trend needed to be addressed."

"The enemy is frustrated and is trying for softer targets, when they fail at borders they attack on camps. Yes, youths joining militancy is a concern, we need to address this trend," he said.

While warning anyone who picks up arms against the state, the army commander said they will be dealt with sternly.

"Anyone who picks up an arm and is against the state, is a terrorist and we will deal with him," he said.

He said that Hizb-ul-Mujahideen, Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Toiba were hands in glove in carrying attacks.

"Whether it's in Valley or here (Jammu), there is no differentiation. They keep jumping from one tanzim (outfit) to other," Gen Abbu said.

He also blamed social media for acting as a catalyst in brewing militancy. "Social media is also responsible for increase in terror, it's engaging the youth at a large scale and I think we need to focus, " he said.

"Anyone who picks up an arm and is against the state, is a terrorist and we'll deal with him."

He said that Hizb-ul-Mujahideen, Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Toiba terror outfits were hands in glove in carrying attacks. "Whether it's in Valley or here (Jammu), there is no differentiation. They keep jumping from one tanzim (outfit) to other," Gen Abbu said.

Comments

Abu Muhammad
 - 
Thursday, 15 Feb 2018

While those people who are associated with anti-nationals have the time to tweet and comment about a boy in remote African village, completely shut their b.. mouth to praise the brave soldiers who laid their lives to safeguard India. No comment on anti-nationals who questioned the preparedness of Indian armed forces. No comment on anti-national BJP IT wing of Madhya Pradesh who sell military intelligence to Pakistan. When Owaisy asks a genuine question - it strikes the very nerve centre of these people. These two sets of rules, laws and approach is dangerous to the unity of the nation.

imtiaz
 - 
Thursday, 15 Feb 2018

Why their mouth shut when RSS chief insult Indian Army....?

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News Network
December 7,2025

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Since 1946, the United States has attempted 93 coups or “regime change” operations across the world — including two in Iran, US Special Envoy for Syria Tom Barrack has admitted.

Speaking to the UAE-based IMI Media Group, in remarks published by The National, Barrack said Washington tried twice to overthrow the Iranian government but failed both times. 

“For (Trump) then to be imputed with regime change — we had two regime changes in Iran already. Neither one worked. So I think wisely leave it to the region to solve,” said Barrack, who also serves as the US ambassador to Turkey.

His comments come six months after the US joined Israel in airstrikes against Iran during ongoing indirect nuclear negotiations between Tehran and Washington.

On June 13, Israel launched an attack on Iran that killed at least 1,064 people and hit civilian infrastructure. Days later, the United States targeted three nuclear facilities — Fordow, Natanz and Isfahan — in what Iran called a clear violation of international law. Iranian retaliation eventually forced a halt to the assault on June 24.

Barrack further claimed that US President Donald Trump and Foreign Secretary Marco Rubio are “not into regime change” and prefer a regional approach driven by Middle Eastern countries themselves. According to him, regional dialogue and non-interference by outside powers offer a more durable path forward.

He added that Washington is still open to an agreement with Tehran if Iranian authorities show “seriousness” and willingness to engage constructively.

However, Iran maintains the US has not shown readiness for meaningful talks. In an interview with Japan’s Kyodo News, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said negotiations could advance only if Washington acknowledges Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy and lifts unilateral sanctions.

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coastaldigest.com news network
December 2,2025

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Udupi, Dec 2: A wave of regional pride is sweeping through Udupi district as Shagun S Verma Hegde, a talented Class 9 student from Christ King English Medium High School, Karkala, has been named the captain of the Indian National Team for the Under-15 Girls’ Volleyball Championship.

Shagun holds the unique distinction of being the sole player from Karnataka selected to represent the country in the prestigious international tournament. The championship, organized by the School Games Federation, is scheduled to take place in Shangluo, China, from December 3 to 13, where Shagun will lead the national squad.

A Remarkable Journey to the Top

Shagun’s selection is a testament to her dedication and exceptional skill on the court. Her journey included several rigorous rounds of selection:

•    She was the only player from Udupi district to qualify for the state-level selection camp.

•    Out of eight players from Karnataka who advanced to the national selection camp in Pune, Maharashtra, Shagun was the only one to secure a place in the final national squad.

•    The national camp saw participation from approximately 200 players, which was shortlisted to 23. Shagun not only made the final cut but was also ranked as the second-best player overall, solidifying her leadership role.

Shagun, who is the daughter of Sandesh Verma and Shruthiraj of Kallotte, Karkala, has trained under experienced coaches Santosh D’Souza, Jeevan D’Silva, Jairaj Poojary, and Ramesh. Her selection as the team captain has brought profound honour to her family, school, the Udupi district, and the entire state of Karnataka.

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News Network
December 2,2025

A major upgrade in safety and monitoring is planned for Haj 2026, with every Indian pilgrim set to receive a Haj Suvidha smart wristband linked to the official Haj Suvidha mobile app. The initiative aims to support pilgrims—especially senior citizens—who may struggle with smartphones during the 45-day journey.

What the Smart Wristband Will Do

Officials said the device will come with:
•    Location tracking
•    Pedometer
•    SOS emergency button
•    Qibla compass
•    Prayer timings
•    Basic health monitoring

SP Tiwari, secretary of the UP State Haj Committee, said the goal is to make the pilgrimage safer and more comfortable.

“Most Hajis are elderly and not comfortable with mobile apps,” he said. “The smartwatch will help locate pilgrims who forget their way or cannot communicate their location.”

The wristbands will be monitored by the Consulate General of India in Saudi Arabia, similar to mobile tracking via the Haj Suvidha App.

Free Distribution and Training

•    Smart wristbands will be given free of cost.
•    Training for pilgrims will be conducted between January and February 2026.
•    Sample units will reach state Haj committees soon.
•    Final devices will be distributed as pilgrims begin their journey.

New Rules for Accommodation

Two major decisions have also been finalised for Haj 2026:
1.    Separate rooms for men and women – including married couples. They may stay on the same floor but must occupy different rooms, following stricter Saudi guidelines.
2.    Cooking banned – gas cylinders will not be allowed; all meals will be provided through official catering services arranged by the Haj Committee of India.

These decisions were finalised during a meeting of the Haj Committee of India and state representatives in Mumbai.

Haj Suvidha App Launched Earlier

The government launched the Haj Suvidha App in 2024, offering:

•    Training modules
•    Accommodation and flight details
•    Baggage information
•    SOS and translation tools
•    Grievance redressal

Haj 2026 Quota and Key States

•    India’s total Haj quota for 2026: 1,75,025 pilgrims
•    70% (1,25,000) allotted to the Haj Committee of India
•    30% (around 50,000) reserved for Haj Group Organisers

Uttar Pradesh has the largest allocation (around 30,000 seats), though approximately 18,000 pilgrims are expected to go this year. States with high pilgrim numbers include Kerala, Maharashtra and Gujarat.

Dates of Haj 2026

The pilgrimage is scheduled to take place from 24 May to 29 May, 2026 (tentative).
Haj is one of the five pillars of Islam and is mandatory for Muslims who meet the required conditions.

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