Quicktakes

Ultras kill jawans

SRINAGAR: On the eve of Independence Day, militants today attacked security forces at four different places across the Valley, killing seven soldiers and injuring 15. In a dozen attacks since August 6, the security forces have lost 29 personnel including a Colonel and a Marine officer. Most of these attacks were carried out in Kupwara.

Gallantry awards

NEW DELHI: The Government, on the eve of Independence day, announced the Param Vir Chakra PVC the highest gallantry award in the country to be given to foursoldiers for their exemplary bravery in Operation Vijay. Ezhilmalai quits

CHENNAI: Piqued over the denial of a ticket by his party, the PMK, Union Minister of State for Health Dalit Ezhilmalai today quit the party and Council of Ministers and said he would soon join the AIADMK.

Narmada violence

KHARGAON MP: Around 100 persons, allegedly Narmada Bachao Andolan activists, stripped four rehabilitation officers, razed to the ground two school buildings at the rehabilitation site of Bahegaon village, 16 kms from here.

Hazare in ICU

PUNE: Social worker Anna Hazare was admitted to the intensive care unit of Sassoon Hospital here early today following fluctuations in his blood pressure on the sixth day of his fast.