The 2019 Valentine Day when people around the world exchanging red roses and promises of being together forever, Kashmir witnessed one of the worst car bomb explosions in the last 30 years. More than 40 CRPF personnel lost their lives. Its impact is still visible almost 10 months later when the public transport and private vehicles have to pave way for the armed forces on the highway.
The deadliest-ever car bomb attack at Lethpora was condemned by all – separatists, unionists, UN, USA, UK and Moscow.
As the prime time TV slots fumed with anger and sought ‘revenge’, India and Pakistan got into a diplomatic war. Delhi withdrew the most favoured nation (MFN) status to Pakistan and both the countries issued demarche to each other’s diplomats.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) visited the spot, took over the investigations, registered a case and arrested several persons. A charge-sheet is still awaited though none of the key suspects are alive. Media reports suggest that the two main suspects, Mudasir Ahmed Khan and Sajjad Bhat, were killed in encounters in March and June, respectively.
The attack ignited war hysteria and led the government to cross the Line of Control for the first time after 1971. On 26 February the IAF jets hit Balakot considered to be training camp of the Jaishe-Muhammad outfit.
A day later, in renewed skirmishes in air, led to the downing of at least one Indian jet, and the capture of its pilot by Pakistan. A chopper was also lost in a battle-ready position as it was hit by the missile over the Pir Panchal. Islamabad quickly returned the captured pilot apparently to reduce tensions.
Bu hikaye Kashmir Life dergisinin January 04, 2020 sayısından alınmıştır.
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Bu hikaye Kashmir Life dergisinin January 04, 2020 sayısından alınmıştır.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Giriş Yap
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