September 10, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper

Category: Featured

PM Modi Vows Unprecedented Action After Pahalgam Terror Attack That Killed 28

Prime Minister Narendra Modi issued a strong warning to terrorists on Thursday, promising to identify, track, and punish those responsible for the horrific terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that claimed 28 innocent lives. This was PM Modi’s first public address following the tragedy, and he used the platform to express the nation’s grief and to assure citizens of decisive and uncompromising action against the perpetrators. “On April 22, terrorists killed innocent people of the country in J&K’s Pahalgam. The country is sad and in pain after this incident. We stand with the families of the victims. The terrorists will not be spared; strong action will be taken against them,” the Prime Minister declared. He emphasized that the punishment will be “significant and stringent,” warning that it will be beyond anything the terrorists could have imagined. Speaking from Bihar, PM Modi reaffirmed India’s zero-tolerance policy on terrorism, stating, “India will identify, trace and punish every terrorist and their backers. We will pursue them to the ends of the Earth. India’s spirit will never be broken by terrorism.” He also thanked global leaders and nations for standing in solidarity with India during this difficult time, underscoring that the fight against terrorism is a global cause that unites humanity. In response to the terror attack, the Indian government took several strong measures. Pakistan’s top diplomat in India, Saad Ahmad Warraich, was summoned and handed a formal persona non grata notice for military diplomats. India also suspended the 1960 Indus Water Treaty, shut down the Integrated Check Post at Attari with immediate effect, and revoked all privileges extended under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES), ordering Pakistani nationals under the scheme to leave within 48 hours. The attack occurred in the picturesque Baisaran meadow, a popular tourist spot approximately seven kilometers from Pahalgam. According to survivors, six foreign terrorists disguised in Army fatigues launched a targeted assault, reportedly identifying victims based on religion. The attack unfolded around 1:30 pm amid a seemingly peaceful setting, despite the area having a significant security presence. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also addressed the nation earlier, vowing a “loud and clear” response to the tragedy. With 26 Indians and two foreign tourists among the deceased, the attack has deeply shaken the nation and intensified calls for justice. The government has linked the attack to cross-border elements and noted that it took place shortly after successful elections in the Union Territory, which had showcased Jammu and Kashmir’s ongoing progress in economic and social development.

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Editor04 mins

Indian Army Foils Infiltration Bid in Baramulla Hours After Deadly Pahalgam Terror Attack

Just hours after Jammu and Kashmir witnessed one of the deadliest terror attacks in recent memory at Pahalgam, the Indian Army successfully foiled an infiltration attempt along the Line of Control (LoC) in Baramulla district on Wednesday, April 23. At least two terrorists were neutralized during the encounter that ensued after they were intercepted by alert security forces. According to an official statement by the Indian Army, a group of approximately two to three unidentified terrorists attempted to infiltrate Indian territory through the Uri Nala area in the Sarjeevan sector of Baramulla. The troops deployed along the LoC immediately challenged them, leading to a firefight. The ongoing operation, named Operation Tikka, is still in progress. The army confirmed the developments via its official X (formerly Twitter) account, stating: “On 23 Apr 2025, approximately 2-3 UI terrorists tried to infiltrate through general area Sarjeevan at Uri Nala, Baramulla. The alert troops on LC challenged and intercepted them, resulting in a firefight. Operation is in progress.” This military action followed closely on the heels of a horrific terror attack that shook southern Kashmir’s Pahalgam on Tuesday. In that incident, at least 26 tourists, including two foreign nationals, were killed when terrorists linked to the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) opened fire at the popular tourist destination of Baisaran valley. Several others were injured in the gruesome assault. Government sources have revealed that an estimated four to six terrorists are still believed to be hiding in the forested hills surrounding Pahalgam. A large-scale search operation is currently underway to track them down. In response to the escalating security situation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi cut short his official visit to Saudi Arabia and returned to New Delhi early Wednesday. Upon arrival, he held a high-level briefing at the airport with National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri to assess the evolving situation. Expressing grief and condemnation, the Prime Minister wrote on X: “I strongly condemn the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. I pray that the injured recover at the earliest. All possible assistance is being provided to those affected.” Security across the Union Territory has been tightened, and vigil has been stepped up at sensitive points and tourist locations to prevent any further incidents.

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Editor04 mins

Valley Shuts Down in Unprecedented Protest Against Pahalgam Terror Attack

For the first time in 35 years, Kashmir valley observed a complete shutdown on Wednesday in a powerful and unified protest against the deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives. The bandh, which saw participation from all sections of society, was called to denounce the killing of innocent tourists at the popular Baisaran meadows in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district. The unprecedented call for a valley-wide shutdown was supported by a broad spectrum of political parties, religious bodies, trade associations, civil society groups, and educational institutions. Shops, fuel stations, and business establishments remained closed in Srinagar and other district headquarters. Only essential services operated, and public transport was minimal, though private vehicles continued to ply. Private schools across Jammu and Kashmir remained shut in response to the call by the Private Schools’ Association of Jammu and Kashmir (PSAJK), while government schools remained open. Kashmir University also postponed all examinations scheduled for the day. Peaceful protests were held in various parts of the valley, with demonstrators urging an end to the violence and calling for justice for the victims. Slogans condemning the attack and expressing solidarity with the bereaved families were raised across protest sites. Major political parties, including the National Conference (NC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Peoples’ Conference, and Apni Party, lent their support to the shutdown. Mutahida Majlis Ulema (MMU), a coalition of religious organizations led by Hurriyat chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, also called upon people to observe the shutdown as a mark of protest and solidarity. Trade and tourism bodies like the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries and the Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation joined the bandh, highlighting the collective grief and outrage that transcended political and social boundaries. Security has been significantly tightened across the Kashmir valley in the wake of the attack. Additional forces have been deployed at vital installations, tourist locations, and city entry-exit points. Security personnel conducted extensive checks and frisking operations across districts, with a special focus on areas with tourist movement. A massive manhunt is currently underway in the Baisaran area of Pahalgam, as security forces work to track down the four LeT terrorists responsible for the attack. The deployment of additional forces in Pahalgam underscores the seriousness of the ongoing security operation. The rare valley-wide shutdown marks a pivotal moment in the public’s response to terrorism in Kashmir, signaling both a deep sense of mourning and a resolute stand against violence.

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Editor04 mins

LeT Terror Attack in Pahalgam Targets Hindu Tourists, Claims 26 Lives

In a horrifying act of violence, four terrorists affiliated with the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) carried out a targeted attack on Hindu tourists in the popular Baisaran meadows area—commonly known as Maggi Point or Mini Switzerland—in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on Tuesday. The attackers, armed with AK-47 rifles loaded with armor-piercing steel-tipped bullets and equipped with body cameras, selectively identified and shot Hindu men among the tourists, killing 26 people in a brutal 15-minute assault. Two of the assailants have been identified as local residents: Aadil Thakur from Bijbehara and Aasif Sheikh from Tral. The remaining two are believed to be Pakistani nationals of Pashtun origin. Despite The Resistance Front (TRF) claiming responsibility for the massacre, security officials confirmed that TRF is merely a façade for LeT, created to portray such operations as indigenous militant activity. Initial intelligence suggests that the terrorists had arrived in the area days prior, with their original target being a visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Katra on April 19—a visit that was ultimately cancelled. Officials ruled out speculation that the attack was aimed at intelligence operatives, although one staff member from the Intelligence Bureau on holiday with his family was among the victims. Eyewitness accounts and security sources revealed that the attackers first questioned the tourists, separating the Hindu men based on names and other identifying markers. While some individuals tried to conceal their religious identities, the terrorists confirmed their suspicions before opening fire. Women and children were deliberately spared and moved aside. Shell casings recovered from the site indicate the use of AK-47s and armor-piercing rounds. Authorities believe the group may have included additional members acting as lookouts, as such teams typically operate in groups of up to six. Security forces have since launched an extensive manhunt, deploying special forces to track down the perpetrators. While intelligence agencies had previously issued alerts about terrorist movement in the area, the threat was reportedly dismissed as part of routine warnings issued ahead of high-profile events. Critics have questioned the lack of security presence in the area, especially given the heavy tourist footfall during the ongoing tourism season. Officials responded by saying that a security-heavy environment was deliberately avoided to maintain a perception of safety for visitors, as overt militarization could harm the region’s tourism-dependent economy. The attack has sparked national outrage and is being seen as a major security lapse. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was in Saudi Arabia at the time, cut short his visit and returned to New Delhi, where he immediately reviewed the security situation at the technical area of the airport.

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Editor04 mins

Former AP Intelligence Chief PSR Anjaneyulu Arrested in Wrongful Confinement Case Involving Actor

Former Director General of Intelligence and senior IPS officer PSR Anjaneyulu was arrested in Hyderabad on Tuesday in connection with the alleged wrongful arrest and confinement of Mumbai-based actor Kadambari Jethwani. His arrest follows a suspension last year on September 16, along with two other top officers — former Vijayawada Police Commissioner Kranti Rana Tata and former Deputy Commissioner Vishal Gunni. The suspension was made under Rule 3(1) of the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules, 1969. The case stems from a complaint lodged by Jethwani in August 2024. She alleged that the three officers acted in haste after YSR Congress Party leader and film producer K. V. Vidyasagar Rao made verbal accusations against her of forgery and extortion. According to Jethwani, she and her father were arrested in Mumbai on February 2, 2024, and taken to Vijayawada, where they were confined for three days before being presented in court. After spending 40 days in jail, they were granted bail. She also alleged that they were subjected to mental torture by the police officers during their detention. An internal investigation, ordered by the Andhra Pradesh Police Chief, found that the IPS officers had acted on the oral instructions of Anjaneyulu. The probe revealed that the arrest was made without any formal complaint, written orders, or sufficient evidence. The officers had traveled to Mumbai and detained Jethwani before any FIR was registered, which formed the basis for their suspension. In a separate and earlier case, Anjaneyulu is also under investigation by Guntur police following an attempt-to-murder complaint lodged by now Deputy Speaker and former YSR Congress Party MP, K. Raghu Rama Krishna Raju. He alleged that after his arrest in May 2021, he was taken to the CID office in Guntur where Anjaneyulu and others assaulted him using belts and lathis. Raju further claimed that he was denied access to critical heart medication during his detention. With serious allegations of abuse of power and violations of legal procedures, Anjaneyulu’s arrest marks a significant development in ongoing investigations into misconduct by top police officials in Andhra Pradesh.

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Editor03 mins

Mehbooba Mufti Voices Concern Over Erosion of Institutions, Supports Rahul Gandhi’s Remarks

On Democratic Institutions & Election Commission: “What Rahul Gandhi said… needs to be investigated,” Mufti said, adding that the credibility of even the Supreme Court was being attacked. ⚖️ On Judiciary Under Fire: 🪖 On Army FIR in J&K (Rajouri Incident): 🕌 On Muslim Community & Rising Communalism: “The condition of Muslims is deteriorating. Secularism has kept us going for 77 years, but now that is under threat.”

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Editor02 mins

India, US Move Closer to Trade Deal Amid Tariff Pause; Modi Hosts VP JD Vance in Delhi

India and the United States signaled significant progress in finalizing a bilateral trade agreement after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with US Vice-President JD Vance in New Delhi on Monday night. The meeting, part of Vance’s ongoing four-day visit to India with his family, also saw discussions on deepening ties across sectors such as defence, energy, and strategic technology. “We are committed to mutually beneficial cooperation, including in trade, technology, defence, energy and people-to-people exchanges,” Modi posted on X, following their meeting. He also hosted a private dinner for Vance, his wife, and their three children at his official residence. The trade talks take place against the backdrop of a temporary 90-day pause on increased US tariffs, announced by President Donald Trump. India, which was facing proposed tariffs as high as 27% on its exports to the US, has used the window to engage in accelerated negotiations. The tariff reprieve ends on July 9, prompting urgency in finalizing a deal. While Modi and Trump have maintained a friendly personal rapport—Modi was one of the first foreign leaders to visit Trump after the start of his second term—the US president has not held back in criticizing India’s trade policies, branding the country a “tariff king” and accusing it of unfair trade practices. In a statement after Monday’s talks, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer reiterated longstanding US concerns, pointing to the “serious lack of reciprocity” in its trade relationship with India. Washington is particularly pushing for greater access to India’s protected agricultural sector, including the sale of American corn—something Indian officials are reluctant to concede due to domestic sensitivities. India has already lowered tariffs on a range of goods and is reportedly considering more reductions to advance negotiations. However, agriculture and digital trade remain key sticking points in the discussions. Beyond trade, Modi and Vance discussed broader strategic collaboration, including defence, energy security, and emerging technologies. The Indian prime minister also expressed anticipation for President Trump’s upcoming visit to India later this year, likely during the Quad summit that Delhi is set to host. The bilateral meeting concluded with delegation-level discussions and the dinner hosted by Modi, underscoring the warmth between the two countries even as complex trade issues remain under negotiation.

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Editor04 mins

Delhi High Court Slams Baba Ramdev for Communal Remarks Against Hamdard, Rooh Afza

The Delhi High Court came down heavily on Patanjali founder Baba Ramdev on Tuesday for making communal remarks targeting Hamdard Laboratories and its iconic beverage, Rooh Afza. During a preliminary hearing in the case Hamdard National Foundation India v. Patanjali Foods Limited & Anr, Justice Amit Bansal expressed shock at the comments, warning that a strong judicial order may follow. “It shocks the conscience of the court. Indefensible,” Justice Bansal remarked, directing Ramdev’s legal counsel to seek instructions and ensure his presence in court. The controversy stems from a video circulated on April 3, in which Ramdev, while promoting Patanjali’s “Gulab Sharbat,” made derogatory remarks about Rooh Afza. In the video, he alleged that Hamdard was channeling profits into building masjids and madrasas, and used the provocative term “sharbat jihad.” Congress leader Digvijaya Singh subsequently filed a police complaint against Ramdev in Bhopal, accusing him of inciting communal hatred. Despite the backlash, Ramdev claimed he had not mentioned any specific brand by name. Representing Hamdard in court, Senior Advocate Mukul Rohatgi argued that Ramdev’s actions went far beyond product disparagement and constituted hate speech. “This is shocking. It’s about creating a communal divide. The law of defamation cannot protect such conduct,” he stated. Rohatgi urged the court to take immediate action, stressing that such content “should not be allowed even for a moment” given the volatile social climate in the country. He also informed the court that Ramdev had similarly targeted the company Himalaya, allegedly because it is also Muslim-owned. Highlighting Ramdev’s prior controversies—including a Supreme Court censure over his comments on allopathy—Rohatgi added, “A hard hand is required to nip this in the bud.” The legal team for Hamdard included Senior Advocates Mukul Rohatgi and Sandeep Sethi, supported by a team of advocates including Pravin Anand, Dhruv Anand, Nikhil Rohatgi, Udita Patro, and others. The case is expected to continue with heightened scrutiny, as the court considers whether Ramdev’s remarks amount to actionable hate speech.

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Editor03 mins

Fresh Russian Drone Strikes Reported in Ukraine Just Hours After ‘Easter Truce’ Ends

Just hours after a 30-hour Easter truce declared by Moscow came to an end, Ukraine has reported a fresh wave of Russian drone and missile attacks across multiple regions. The Ukrainian Air Force issued air raid alerts for Kyiv, Kherson, Dnipropetrovsk, Cherkasy, Mykolaiv, and Zaporizhzhia as residents were urged to take shelter. Explosions in Mykolaiv and Missile Attacks Confirmed In the southern city of Mykolaiv, Mayor Oleksandr Senkevych confirmed that “explosions were heard” late Sunday night. Regional Governor Vitaliy Kim later reported that the city was struck by missiles, though no casualties or damage were recorded. Ukraine’s Air Force noted “rocket danger” in central areas and confirmed the presence of active Russian aircraft in the north-eastern and eastern regions. Air defence systems were reported to be engaged in the Kyiv area. Ceasefire Ends Amid Mutual Accusations The truce, which lasted from Saturday evening to midnight on Sunday Moscow time (21:00 GMT), was declared by Russian President Vladimir Putin as a temporary halt to hostilities during Orthodox Easter. However, both Kyiv and Moscow have accused each other of violating the ceasefire. While the Kremlin has not commented on the new wave of strikes, a Kremlin spokesperson confirmed earlier that there would be no extension of the truce beyond Sunday. Zelensky: Russian Truce Was “PR” Move Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the truce as a public relations stunt, calling Putin’s words “empty.” He claimed that Russia had carried out 1,882 attacks during the ceasefire period, 812 of which involved heavy weaponry. He emphasized Ukraine’s right to respond, stating, “We will respond to silence with silence, our strikes will be to protect against Russian strikes.” Zelensky also proposed a longer pause in attacks on civilian infrastructure, suggesting a 30-day cessation of long-range drone and missile strikes with the possibility of extension. Trump Calls for Peace Deal Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump weighed in, saying he hoped Russia and Ukraine would reach a peace deal “this week,” though he provided no specifics. War Grinds On as Civilian Toll Mounts Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began on February 24, 2022. As of now, Russia controls approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, annexed in 2014. The conflict has claimed hundreds of thousands of lives, predominantly soldiers, with no clear resolution in sight. While Putin’s ceasefire gesture appeared to offer a brief respite, the swift resumption of hostilities reinforces the deep mistrust and continued volatility along the frontlines.

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Editor04 mins

Former Karnataka DGP Om Prakash Murdered by Wife in Shocking Domestic Dispute

In a tragic and unexpected development, former Karnataka Director General of Police (DGP) Om Prakash was allegedly murdered by his wife, Pallavi, at their residence in HSR Layout, Bengaluru. According to police reports, the 68-year-old retired IPS officer was attacked during a heated argument that escalated fatally. Shocking Details Emerge: Chilli Powder and a Fatal Stabbing Sources close to the investigation revealed that Pallavi allegedly threw chilli powder in Om Prakash’s face, temporarily blinding him, before stabbing him multiple times. The incident occurred on the ground floor of their three-storeyed house on Sunday. Police found Prakash lying in a pool of blood. What makes the case even more chilling is that Pallavi reportedly made a video call to a friend shortly after the act, declaring, “I have killed the monster.” Daughter Detained, Forensic Investigation Underway Bengaluru Police have detained both Pallavi and their daughter, Kriti, for questioning. While no formal arrests have been made yet, the house has been secured for a detailed forensic examination. An autopsy is being conducted to determine the precise cause and extent of Om Prakash’s injuries. Underlying Issues: Domestic Tensions, Property Disputes, and Mental Health Investigators believe that long-standing tensions within the family played a significant role in the murder. Reports suggest the couple frequently fought and were embroiled in a property dispute related to land in Dandeli, Karnataka. Pallavi had previously visited the local police station to file a complaint and even staged a protest when her concerns were not addressed. Police sources also revealed that she has been undergoing treatment for schizophrenia and is on medication. Distinguished Career Ends in Family Tragedy Om Prakash, originally from Champaran, Bihar, was a 1981-batch IPS officer with a Master’s degree in Geology. He began his career as an Additional Superintendent of Police in Ballari and went on to serve in several key districts including Shivamogga, Uttara Kannada, and Chikkamagaluru. He also held important positions in the Lokayukta and the Fire and Emergency Services. He served as DGP and IGP from March 1, 2015, until his retirement in March 2017. Investigation Focuses on Murder, Mental Health, and Family Conflict Police are now treating the case as a murder investigation, with domestic conflict and mental health forming crucial aspects of the ongoing probe. The incident raises broader questions about the importance of taking domestic complaints seriously to prevent such devastating outcomes.

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