( Terror Incidents reported)
Elections in Jammu & Kashmir
BJP Releases Additional Candidates: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) released a list of 29 additional candidates for the upcoming assembly elections, including significant candidates from both Jammu and Kashmir regions
Apni Party Announces 24 Candidates: The Apni Party announced a list of 24 candidates for the assembly elections. This includes Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, who will contest from the Chanapora constituency
Congress-National Conference Alliance: The Congress and National Conference (NC) alliance confirmed their seat-sharing arrangement, with the NC contesting 51 seats and Congress 32 seats. They also agreed on a “friendly fight” in five constituencies.
Former Chief Ministers Opt Out: Three former Chief Ministers of Jammu and Kashmir, including Farooq Abdullah, Ghulam Nabi Azad, and Mehbooba Mufti, have chosen not to contest in this election, although their respective parties remain active
Mehbooba Mufti Releases PDP Manifesto: PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti released her party’s manifesto, focusing on restoring Article 370 and engaging in dialogue with separatist groups, despite deciding not to run herself
National Conference Faces Internal Rebellion: Farooq Abdullah’s National Conference is facing internal dissent over the distribution of tickets, with some members openly rebelling against the leadership’s decisions
Second Phase Election Notification Issued: The Election Commission issued the notification for the second phase of the assembly elections, marking the official start of preparations for the next round of voting
AAP Announces First List of Candidates: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) released its first list of candidates for the assembly elections, focusing on contesting in key areas across the region\
Star Campaigners Announced: Major political parties announced their star campaigners, with the BJP listing Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, while the AAP included leaders like Arvind Kejriwal.
Local Polling Preparations Reviewed: The Divisional Commissioner of Jammu conducted a review meeting to assess the preparedness for the upcoming polls, ensuring all logistical and security measures are in place..
Terrorist Activities
In a concerning escalation of violence, Kashmir witnessed a series of terrorist incidents over the past 24 hours, marking one of the most intense periods of conflict in recent times. Between 8 AM on 29 August 2024 and 8 AM on 30 August 2024, at least ten major incidents were reported across various districts, highlighting the continued volatility in the region.
Kupwara (Machil Sector): In a daring anti-infiltration operation, security forces successfully neutralized two terrorists. The encounter occurred under extremely challenging weather conditions, reflecting the ongoing efforts to curb infiltration attempts from across the Line of Control (LoC). The operation is still underway as security forces continue to sweep the area for any remaining threats.
Kupwara (Tangdhar Sector): Another operation along the LoC resulted in the neutralization of one terrorist. The incident underscores the heightened alertness of security forces in this critical border region, where infiltration attempts have seen a significant uptick.
Rajouri (Lathi Village): An intense operation is currently ongoing in the Lathi village of Rajouri. Acting on intelligence reports, security forces engaged suspected terrorists, leading to a prolonged encounter. Multiple terrorists are believed to be involved, with the situation still developing.
Kulgam (Modergam): In Kulgam’s Modergam area, two terrorists were killed in a fierce encounter with security forces. This incident is part of a broader crackdown on militant activities in South Kashmir, which has seen an increase in encounters over the past few months.
Kulgam (Chinigam): In a separate incident in Chinigam, Kulgam, four terrorists were neutralized during a joint operation by the Indian Army and Jammu & Kashmir Police. This operation highlights the successful coordination between different security agencies in tackling terrorism in the valley.
Baramulla (Rafiabad): A gunfight in the Rafiabad area of Baramulla resulted in the death of one terrorist. The encounter, which took place late in the evening, was part of a continued effort to eliminate remaining pockets of militancy in North Kashmir.
Anantnag: Security forces thwarted an infiltration bid in Anantnag, leading to an exchange of fire. One terrorist is believed to have been killed, though the body has not yet been recovered. This incident is a stark reminder of the persistent attempts to breach the region’s defenses.
Shopian: A brief encounter occurred in Shopian, resulting in injuries but no confirmed fatalities. The clash, though short-lived, caused significant alarm among the local population, reflecting the tense atmosphere in the region.
Pulwama: In Pulwama, a suspected terrorist was arrested following an exchange of fire with security forces. The arrest is considered a significant breakthrough in ongoing counter-terrorism operations in the area.
Srinagar: The heart of Kashmir’s capital, Srinagar, was rattled by a grenade attack near Lal Chowk. The explosion caused minor injuries to several civilians, triggering panic in the heavily populated area. The attack is a grim reminder of the vulnerabilities in urban areas, despite heightened security measures.
These incidents collectively indicate the intensity of terrorist activities across Kashmir, raising concerns about the potential for further violence in the coming days. Security forces remain on high alert, with operations ongoing in several areas to prevent further escalation. The authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies to ensure the safety and stability of the region during these challenging times
