Centre likely to okay release of J-K political prisoners

Despite the militant attack on Amphalla Central Jail in Jammu city on Wednesday, the Centre will go ahead with its healing touch and has pla...

Despite the militant attack on Amphalla Central Jail in Jammu city on Wednesday, the Centre will go ahead with its healing touch and has plans to give the Mufti Government a green signal to release more political prisoners after the second round of peace talks with the Hurriyat Conference.

Sources said the issue of release of political detenues was discussed with visiting Home Secretary Anil Baijal by the J&K government during the official meetings in Jammu.

It is understood that out of around 520 J&K prisoners in Central jails, 170 are foreigners. Leaving out those involved in heinous crimes, the state government has chalked out a list of around 60 prisoners who can be considered for release.

The Hurriyat dialogue with Deputy PM L.K. Advani was earlier fixed for March 22 but with Advani embarking on Bharat Uday yatra on March 10, a new date between March 26-30 is being finalised. Interestingly, Hurriyat representatives, Bilal Lone and Mirwaiz Umer Farooq, are in New Delhi and informal parleys are being held to firm up the peace processthat was hit by alleged human rights violations by security forces in Bandipora and Tral last month.

People look at a burnt police vehicle during protests against social media ban and corruption in Kathmandu, Nepal

Shelter in homes, avoid going out: MEA issues travel advisory for Indian citizens in Nepal

India2 hr ago

The Ministry of External Affairs has advised Indian citizens to postpone travel to Nepal until the situation stabilizes. Those already in Nepal are urged to stay in their residences, follow local safety advisories, and seek guidance from the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu. Emergency helpline numbers have also been provided.

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