Kolkata: The West Bengal government on Monday decided to hold elections to the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), an autonomous body to administer Darjeeling hills, next month, an official said.The polls to the Siliguri Mahakuma Parishad (SMP) will also be organised in June."The state government in consultation with the State Election Commission has decided to hold elections to the Siliguri Mahakuma Parishad and Gorkhaland Territorial Administration in June," the administration said in a statement.The elections to the GTA, formed in 2011, were last held in 2012.There are 45 elected members in the GTA Sabha and five others are nominated by the governor.The SMP was formed in 1989 for Siliguri subdivision, the plain areas of Darjeeling district.Elections to the SMP, where there are nine seats, along with four panchayat samitis and 22 panchayats spread across four blocks of the Siliguri subdivision, were last held in October 2015.—PTI

The West Bengal government on Monday decided to hold elections to the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA), an autonomous body to administer Darjeeling hills, next month, an official said.

Gorkhaland Territorial Administration polls in June

Rishikesh: A tiger injured in a fight for territorial dominance died during treatment, Chief Conservator of Forest Kumaon division Prasanna Kumar Patra said on Monday.
The fight had taken place in Fanto range of Terai West forest division earlier this month, he said.
The tiger was tranquilised on February 26 and had been under treatment since but on Sunday the big cat succumbed to its injuries sustained in the fight, he said. —PTI&nbsp;

A tiger injured in a fight for territorial dominance died during treatment, Chief Conservator of Forest Kumaon division Prasanna Kumar Patra said on Monday.

Tiger Injured In Territorial Fight Dies

New Delhi: Just making "absurd claims" does not make other people's territories yours, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Tuesday rejecting China's so-called "standard map" that laid claim over Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin as regions within its borders.  He said Beijing had even put out such maps in the past claiming territories that are not theirs and that it is "an old habit" of China.  On Monday, Beijing released the 2023 edition of the so-called "standard map of China" that claimed Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin as belonging to that country.  The "map" also showed the so-called nine-dash line covering the South China Sea as part of China as featured in the previous editions of the 'map'.  "China has even in the past put out maps which claimed the territories which are not China's, which belong to other countries. This is an old habit of theirs," Jaishankar said.  He made the comments while replying to a question on the 'map' at an event hosted by the NDTV.  "It is not something which is new. It started in the 1950s. So just by putting out a map claiming territories some of which are part of India.. I think this doesn't change (anything). These are very much part of India," he said.  "We are very clear what our territories are. This government is very clear about what we need to do to defend our territory. You can see that on our borders. I think there should be no doubt about that," Jaishankar said.  "Just making absurd claims does not make other people's territories yours. Let's be very clear on that," he added.  India on Tuesday lodged a strong protest with China over the map issue and said such steps only complicate the resolution of the boundary question.  "We have today lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the Chinese side on the so called 2023 'standard map' of China that lays claim to India's territory," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.  "We reject these claims as they have no basis. Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question," he added.  In April, India outrightly rejected China's renaming of some places in Arunachal Pradesh, asserting that the state is an integral part of India and that assigning "invented" names does not alter this reality.  In early April, Beijing announced Chinese names for 11 more places in Arunachal Pradesh which the neighbouring country claims as southern part Tibet.  It was the third batch of standardised geographical names for Arunachal Pradesh issued by China's civil affairs ministry.  The first batch of the standardised names of six places in Arunachal Pradesh was released in 2017 while the second batch of 15 places was issued in 2021.
—PTI

Just making "absurd claims" does not make other people's territories yours, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Tuesday rejecting China's so-called "standard map" that laid claim over Arunachal Pradesh and Aksai Chin as regions within its borders.

'Absurd claims' don't make other people's territories yours: Jaishankar on China's so-called new map

New Delhi: Chinese forces are learnt to have ramped up construction of reinforced bunkers and underground tunnels in Aksai Chin, according to reports citing data from satellite imagery.  As per the reports,construction activities are taking place in Aksai Chin, a territory held illegally by China, but historically claimed by India.  The reports further said that Chinese forces have started carving tunnels and shafts alongside a narrow river valley, to construct bunkers and shelters.  The development has come on the heels of China releasing a "standard map" showing parts of Aksai Chin and Arunachal Pradesh under its jurisdiction, on Monday.  Reacting to the map, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Tuesday that "China has put out maps with territories (that are) not theirs. (It is an) old habit.  "Just by putting out maps with parts of India... this doesn't change anything. Our government is very clear about what our territory is. Making absurd claims does not make other people's territories yours," he added.  Also on Tuesday, India lodged a strong protest with China on the release of a so-called "standard map".  "We have today lodged a strong protest through diplomatic channels with the Chinese side on the so called 2023 ‘standard map’ of China that lays claim to India’s territory," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said.  "We reject these claims as they have no basis. Such steps by the Chinese side only complicate the resolution of the boundary question," he added.  The release of the map comes just days before the G20 summit, which is scheduled to take place in New Delhi on September 9 and 10.  Last week during his informal conversation with China's President Xi Jinping at the BRICS summit in South Africa, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had conveyed New Delhi's "concerns over unresolved issues along LAC and other areas along the India-China border".
—IANS

Chinese forces are learnt to have ramped up construction of reinforced bunkers and underground tunnels in Aksai Chin, according to reports citing data from satellite imagery.

Chinese army constructing bunkers, tunnels at Aksai Chin: Reports

Jammu: Ladakh Lt. Governor, Brigadier B.D. Mishra said on Monday that the Chinese Army has not occupied an inch of Indian territory in the union territory.  Speaking to media persons who asked him to comment on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s statement that the Chinese have occupied large areas of Indian territory in Ladakh, Mishra said, “I don’t want to comment on anybody’s statement.
"But, I want to make a statement of facts.  “I don’t know whatever might have happened in 1962, but what I have seen with my own eyes, today not a square inch of our territory is occupied by the Chinese in Ladakh.  "Our troops are in occupation of our territory to the last inch.  “Our armed forces are fully prepared to meet any eventuality and God forbid if the balloon goes up, people will get a bloody nose.”
—IANS

Ladakh Lt. Governor, Brigadier B.D. Mishra said on Monday that the Chinese Army has not occupied an inch of Indian territory in the union territory.

Ladakh L-G says not an inch of Indian territory occupied by Chinese

Ladakh Lt. Governor, Brigadier B.D. Mishra said on Monday that the Chinese Army has not occupied an inch of Indian territory in the union territory.


Imphal: In a fresh move, 23 MLAs of the BJP-led government in Manipur have signed a resolution expressing their pledge to protect the territorial integrity of the state. They will also go to Delhi soon to urge the Centre to maintain the existing territorial boundary of the ethnic violence ravaged state.
The resolution, accessed by IANS, says: “It is unanimously resolved by all the undersigned members of the legislative Assembly that we would stand for the territorial integrity of the state of Manipur and that no form of separate administration would be agreed to by us.
“It has also been resolved that all the members would proceed to Delhi soon to persuade the central leadership to bring a solution to the current crisis at the earliest.”
The 23 MLAs — 18 from BJP and remaining five from alliance partners — include Assembly Speaker Thokchom Satyabrata Singh, ministers Y. Khemchand and Bishwajit Singh.
Ten tribal MLAs, including seven belonging to the BJP, and various tribal organisations, including the Indigenous Tribal Leaders’ Forum (ITLF) and Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM). have been demanding a separate administration (equivalent to a separate state) for the tribals since May 12.
Home Minister Amit Shah, Chief Minister N. Biren Singh and many organisations, including the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI), an umbrella body of the Meitei community, have been strongly opposing the demand.

On Monday night, thousands of youths under the banner of ‘Youths of Manipur’ marched towards the Chief Minister’s official bungalow while some of the youth leaders later met Singh.
The youths urged the CM to take legal action against the 10 tribals MLAs who have been demanding separate administration for the tribals in Manipur.
The youths also demanded to convene a special Assembly session to discuss the issue and to introduce the National Register of Citizens (NRC) to identify the foreign nationals.
The youth leaders urged all ministers, MLAs and politicians to disclose their position about the territorial integrity of Manipur. Due to this move, the 23 legislators have taken a fresh initiative to oppose the demand for division of Manipur.
Earlier also, more than 40 Manipur MLAs had met the Central leaders and urged them to maintain the territorial integrity of the state.&nbsp;
—IANS

In a fresh move, 23 MLAs of the BJP-led government in Manipur have signed a resolution expressing their pledge to protect the territorial integrity

23 MLAs make fresh move to maintain territorial integrity of Manipur

Manila (Philippines): The Philippines has accused China's shadowy maritime militia of causing extensive coral reef destruction in the South China Sea, which has ignited a public dispute between the two nations over the contentious maritime region, CNN reported. Videos released by the Philippine Coast Guard have revealed substantial damage to coral reefs along the Rozul (Iroquois) Reef and Sabina (Escoda) Shoal in the South China Sea. These underwater features fall within the Philippines' internationally recognized exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and are located near Palawan, a southwestern island chain facing the South China Sea. However, China asserts sovereignty over a significant portion of the South China Sea, challenging competing claims by neighbouring countries and international rulings. Commodore Jay Tarriela, the spokesperson for the Philippine Coast Guard, disclosed that underwater surveys conducted by divers indicated "visible discolouration" and alterations in the seabed's natural topography, suggesting intentional activities to modify the terrain. Tarriela asserted that the actions of China's Maritime Militia, particularly their indiscriminate illegal and destructive fishing activities in the area, may have directly led to the degradation and destruction of marine environments within the Philippines' jurisdiction, as reported by CNN. Between August 9 and September 11, the Philippine coast guard reported monitoring 33 Chinese vessels near Rozul Reef and approximately 15 Chinese ships in the vicinity of Escoda Shoal. The presence of crushed corals strongly suggests potential dumping, possibly involving dead corals that were previously processed and then returned to the seabed. The Philippine military had previously accused China's maritime militia of causing extensive destruction in the area. However, China initially remained silent on the allegations until its foreign ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, refuted the claims as "false and groundless." Mao advised Philippine authorities not to utilize fabricated information for political purposes, according to CNN. China has asserted "indisputable sovereignty" over a vast portion of the South China Sea, including the Spratly chain, which consists of 100 small islands and reefs. These territorial claims are contested, in full or part, by the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan. China's actions in the South China Sea, including the construction of military installations on reefs and atolls, have challenged not only the Philippines' sovereignty but also the marine biodiversity of the highly disputed region. The recent footage of damaged and bleached coral reefs is a stark contrast to the vibrant marine ecosystem observed just two years ago. While the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute had previously documented the health of the Rozul (Iroquois) Reef in 2021, the current status of the reef remains uncertain. The institute emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring and marine scientific research activities to assess the impacts of recent activities in the area. The degradation of marine resources in the South China Sea highlights the threats posed by coral harvesting and raises suspicions of China's plans to militarize atolls through land reclamation. Western marine security experts and officials from various countries have accused China of using civilian fishing vessels as a maritime militia, a force that advances China's territorial claims in the region while maintaining deniability, CNN reported. The destruction of marine resources has prompted concern among foreign ambassadors in Manila. United States Ambassador MaryKay Carlson and Japanese Ambassador Kazuhiko Koshikawa expressed alarm and emphasized the need to protect vital ecosystems. The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs has consistently raised concerns over ecologically harmful activities conducted by foreign vessels in its maritime zones. The Philippines' efforts to garner international support to affirm its territorial sovereignty have yielded results, especially as transparency about activities in the South China Sea becomes increasingly vital. Under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the National Security Team of the Philippines has enhanced transparency regarding developments in the West Philippine Sea and the South China Sea. This approach has gained domestic and international support for the Philippines' position in the ongoing maritime disputes, CNN reported. —ANI

The Philippines has accused China's shadowy maritime militia of causing extensive coral reef destruction in the South China Sea

Philippines Accuses China's Maritime Militia Of Coral Reef Destruction In South China Sea

New Delhi: The US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti on Tuesday dismissed criticism of the American envoy in Islamabad visiting Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK) on the ground that a US delegation had also visited Jammu and Kashmir during the G20 meeting in Srinagar.  India had raised strong objections to the US Ambassador in Pakistan, Donald Blome’s recent visit to PoK, during which he repeatedly referred to the region as AJK, the abbreviation for ‘Azad Jammu and Kashmir’.  “The Quaid-e-Azam Memorial Dak Bungalow symbolises the cultural and historical richness of Pakistan and was famously visited by Jinnah in 1944. I’m honoured to visit it during my first trip to AJK”, his official Twitter handle had tweeted.  Ambassador Garcetti when asked about Blone’s PoK visit, said:,“I know he has been there before, but our delegation has also visited Jammu and Kashmir during the G20 meeting.”  Ambassador Garcetti’s remark appears to indicate that the US is placing Jammu and Kashmir, which is a legitimate part of Indian territory, as a disputed area as it is being deviously termed by Pakistani propaganda.  Blome’s visit was the second high-profile visit by a US diplomat to PoK, after US Congresswoman Illhan Omar visited the region.  India had issued a strongly worded statement at the time saying: “She visited a part of Jammu and Kashmir illegally occupied by Pakistan. If such a politician wishes to practice her narrow-minded politics at home that may be her business, but violating our territorial integrity in its pursuit makes it ours.”
—IANS

The US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti on Tuesday dismissed criticism of the American envoy in Islamabad visiting Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK)

US Ambassador in India defends PoK visit of American envoy in Islamabad

Dr. Alon Ben-Meir* New York (The Hawk): It’s time for the leaders of Serbia and Kosovo to come to their senses and accept certain realities that neither can change. They are stuck and should recognize that their conflict will end only through mutual understanding of each other’s aspirations and respect for their sovereignty and territorial integrity.  I condemn in the strongest terms the killing of a Kosovo police officer in the most recent clash that sadly took place in northern Kosovo. Unfortunately, these types of incidents may reoccur due to the fact that tensions between the two sides are heightened as a result of a lack of understanding and distrust between Kosovo and Serbia. In order to prevent this kind of tragic event from reoccurring, it is critical that both sides make every effort to reduce the tension and face certain realities that neither side can change. To further advance the understanding between the two sides, it is critical that both Serbia and Kosovo accept certain realities on the ground that have been created since Kosovo declared its independence. The realities that are not subject to change The first is the reality that the northern municipalities are occupied by a majority of ethnic Serbs. Living in a democracy gives them the right to follow their way of life. Neither Pristina nor Belgrade can change this reality and nothing either side or any other power suggests to the contrary can defy this reality. Moreover, given that both Serbia and Kosovo want to join the EU, they must also adhere to the Treaty of Lisbon (in essence, the EU’s constitution), which enshrines respect for human rights of minorities and opposes any territorial change by “ensuring the territorial integrity of the State.” None of the above however, should or could compromise Kosovo’s sovereignty as long as the ethnic Serbs adhere to Kosovo’s constitution. Second, Vucic must realize that the eventual recognition of Kosovo’s independence is not negotiable now or at any time in the future. However long he may drag his feet on this issue, it is only a question of time when he or his eventual successor will come to this conclusion. Third, although Prime Minister Kurti recognizes that there are nearly 50,000 ethnic Serbs living in the north who are Kosovo citizens, the establishment of the Association of Serb Municipalities, which was agreed upon several years ago, must take place to give them the opportunity to live as they see fit, as long as Belgrade will not under any circumstances exert executive power there. To suggest that the establishment of this Association would de facto sever these municipalities from Kosovo is completely misplaced. Indeed, anyone who thinks that the ethnic Serbs in these areas are stooges operating on behalf of Belgrade is also mistaken. In reference to the recent violence, the US Ambassador to Kosovo, Jeff Hovenier, stated that “This was not a group of citizens who spontaneously came together to voice their concerns. This was a trained and organized group. This implies that there is some sort of structure behind them, given the training and equipment.” And while Kosovo’s Interior Minister Xhelal Svecla stated that a significant number of heavy weapons, explosives, and uniforms were found after the attack in northern Kosovo, I do not agree with his conclusion that this is necessarily a preparation for a massive assault to come. The ethnic Serbs in the area know that if such an attack against Kosovo police were to occur, Kurti would be right to, and certainly capable of, sending in significant forces to quell it. Under such a scenario, Kurti would receive the full support of KFOR. Furthermore, Serbia itself is not planning, as some suggest, to wage an open war against Kosovo, as it knows full well it would have to confront NATO forces, which is simply a non-starter and definitely is not in Serbia’s long-term interest. More often than not, these ethnic Serbs in northern Kosovo demonstrate a strong affinity to Serbia because of the natural association they have with their brethren in that country. And thus, anything they do or say is immediately attributed to Serbia’s direct influence, which only strengthens rather weakens their ties to Belgrade. This can change if they feel they are being heard as Kosovars. In fact, as far as I know, they want to be free just as much from Belgrade as from Pristina, once they are given the opportunity. Reciprocal measures Even though Kosovo agreed several years ago to the establishment of the Association of Serb Municipalities, if the Kurti government is to move toward its implementation, he should expect at the same time some reciprocal steps taken by Belgrade to demonstrate good faith. This may include, for example, allowing Pristina to join other international organizations, recognize its passports and other state-level documents, etc., all of which Serbia previously committed to. The EU’s indispensable role Contrary to the views of Prime Minister Kurti, who claims that EU special envoy Miroslav Lajcák has “lost neutrality,” EU mediation remains indispensable. To suggest that the EU is no longer neutral and is operating on the behest of Belgrade is again completely unfounded. The EU is and continues to be committed to Kosovo’s sovereignty and national security. What the EU would like to achieve is putting both countries on the path of mutual recognition. To that end, as I indicated, compromises on both sides must be made, and that should begin by Belgrade and Pristina agreeing on the above-mentioned reciprocal measures. The EU needs to exert pressure on Vucic, not just Kurti, to fulfil his obligations. EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell and Lajcák need to focus on these two initial steps and ensure that both sides commit to their simultaneous implementation at a mutually agreed upon timeline. Once this is done, they’ll be able to build on such initial steps and take further mutual measures that would also aid both sides in moving ever closer to mutual recognition and to eventual integration with the EU. Necessary mitigating steps None of the above can take place unless both sides first reduce the heightened tension by demonstrating their willingness to resume negotiations in good faith, knowing full well that there is no substitute to negotiations to reach any agreement. To begin with, a new election should be scheduled in the north. As everybody knows, the first election was boycotted by ethnic Serbs, and the current mayors were elected by a mere 5 percent. This in and of itself has created tremendous resentment, and it cannot be rectified unless new elections are scheduled, as soon as possible. In addition, both sides must end their acrimonious public narrative which otherwise only deepens their distrust and disdain for the other, poisons the political and social atmosphere, and drives both sides to take extreme positions to safeguard their interests, which further complicates their conflict. Furthermore, they should heed the EU’s recommendations, not only because they need EU support, but also because the EU is the only institution that can help settle their conflict and provide the incentive of integration that Serbia and Kosovo aspire for while moving the process of reconciliation forward. Finally, Vucic and Kurti need to enhance their credibility; Vucic must stop his public pronouncement that Serbia will never recognize Kosovo, and Kurti needs to accept that the Serb-majority municipalities in the north have the right to live in accordance with their culture, religion, and tradition, which are consistent with democracy and Kosovo’s constitution under the umbrella of association. Peaceful coexistence and mutual recognition between Kosovo and Serbia is not one of many options, but the only option. Their conflict will not end on a zero-sum basis where one party benefits at the expense of the other, but only on a non-zero-sum basis where both sides mutually benefit to ensure the sustainability of any agreement. In the final analysis, both leaders must demonstrate statesmanship and the courage to act, without which both will leave the political scene worse off than when they assumed power.
*Dr. Alon Ben-Meir is a retired professor of international relations at the Center for Global Affairs at NYU. He teaches courses on international negotiation and Middle Eastern studies.

It’s time for the leaders of Serbia and Kosovo to come to their senses and accept certain realities that neither can change

Serbia-Kosovo Deadlock Requires A Reality Check

Dehradun (The Hawk): One week training on 'Silviculture and Forestry' for the Personnel of Ecological Battalions of Territorial Army was organized by the Silviculture and Forest Management division of Forest Research Institute at Dehradun from 20th to 25th November 2023. This course is a joint venture of FRI, Dehradun and 127 Infantry Bn. Ecological (TA) Garhwal Rifles, Dehradun and training course is being attended by 41 personnel including Officers, JCOs and Jawans from 04 Eco Battalions of Territorial Army viz. 127 ETF,Garhwal (Dehradun), 130 ETF Kumaon (Pithoragarh), 132 ETF Bn (Delhi) and 137 CETF Bn (Prayagraj).  Mrs Richa Misra, Head Silviculture and Forest management division welcomed the gathering and said that during this course apart from lectures, visits to nursery, laboratories and experimental sites will also be conducted. She informed that the training will provide scientific inputs on silvicultural aspects like seed collection, quality evaluation, raising of quality planting stock and plantation establishment and disease/pest management, phytoremediation, etc. Dr. Renu Singh - Director FRI in her inaugural speech said that Eco battalions of Territorial Army were raised with specific mandate to undertake the afforestation activities in the degraded and difficult to access sites. They have been doing commendable work on afforestation of degraded, disturbed and difficult sites and in cleaning and rejuvenation of Ganga river and thus also contributing to enhancing the forest and tree cover of the country as envisaged in the National Forest Policy. Col. Rohit Srivastava Commanding Officer 127 ETF Garhwal briefed about the plantation projects being carried out by the unit. He advised the participants to make the most of the training programme and also have discussion with the faculty members on scientific aspects of nursery raising. Dr. Manisha Thapliyal, Course Coordinator told that equal emphasis was given to practical exposure in seed handling, nursery establishment &amp; management and plantation activities, propagation of bamboo and medicinal plants. The sessions will also be on soil fertility management in nursery and plantations, afforestation of difficult sites, restoration activities in mined-out areas and management of fungal and insect-pest diseases in nursery &amp; plantations, visits to seed processing unit, botanical garden, bambusetum, etc. The participants will also visit various museums of FRI, to gain knowledge on history of forestry/silviculture and other sciences. She also proposed a vote of thanks.

One week training on 'Silviculture and Forestry' for the Personnel of Ecological Battalions of Territorial 

Training On 'Silviculture And Forestry' For Personnel Of Eco Task Force-Eco Battalions Of Territorial Army Of India

Beijing: Chinese state media accused the Philippines on Monday of repeatedly infringing on China's territory in the South China Sea, spreading false information and colluding with extraterritorial forces to cause trouble.
The Philippines has relied on US support to continually provoke China, with such "extremely dangerous" behaviour seriously harming regional peace and stability, China's Communist Party mouthpiece, the People's Daily, wrote in a commentary on Monday. The Philippines foreign ministry and a national task force handling the South China Sea did not immediately respond on Christmas Day to requests for comment on the report. Tensions between Beijing and Manila have heightened in recent months as both sides trade accusations over a spate of run-ins in the South China Sea, including charges that China rammed a ship this month carrying the Philippine armed forces chief of staff.
China claims most of the South China Sea, parts of which are also claimed by the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia, Taiwan, Vietnam and Indonesia. An international tribunal in 2016 invalidated China's claim in a ruling on a case brought by the Philippines, which Beijing rejects. Also Read: <a href="https://www.thehawk.in/posts/oil-tanker-'mv-sai-baba'-that-came-under-drone-attack-in-red-sea-not-indian-flagged-vessel:-officials" target="_self">https://www.thehawk.in/posts/oil-tanker-'mv-sai-baba'-that-came-under-drone-attack-in-red-sea-not-indian-flagged-vessel:-officials</a> In an unusually direct warning, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said last week any miscalculation in the dispute with the Philippines would bring a resolute response from China, and called for dialogue to address "serious difficulties". The souring of bilateral ties coincides with Manila's moves to bolster military relations with Japan and the United States, its former colonial power and defence ally of seven decades. Also Read: <a href="https://www.thehawk.in/posts/navy-investigating-drone-attack-on-merchant-ship-off-indian-coast:-officials" target="_self">https://www.thehawk.in/posts/navy-investigating-drone-attack-on-merchant-ship-off-indian-coast:-officials</a> China expressed anger at the US this month for sending a navy ship into waters near the disputed area where China and the Philippines have had several maritime confrontations.
Washington has frequently used its defence treaty with Manila to "threaten" China, blatantly supporting Philippine violation of Chinese sovereignty and "peddling security anxieties", the People's Daily said. That is "extremely irresponsible and dangerous", said the commentary, written under the pen name Zhong Sheng, or "Voice of China", often used to offer the newspaper's views on foreign policy matters.
—Reuters

Chinese state media accused the Philippines on Monday of repeatedly infringing on China's territory in the South China Sea, spreading false information

Philippine actions in South China Sea 'extremely dangerous': Chinese state media

Manila: The Philippines' defence chief has ordered the military to boost the number of troops stationed at the northernmost islands near Taiwan to fortify Manila's territorial defence capabilities.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro also called for the development of more structures on the remote Batanes islands, less than 200 km (125 miles) from Taiwan, during his visit to naval facilities there on Tuesday, the Philippine navy said.  "Starting 2024, the operational tempo for the AFP (Armed Forces of the Philippines) will be higher," Teodoro said, according to a Philippine navy statement issued late Tuesday.  The Bashi Channel between those islands and Taiwan is considered a choke point for vessels moving between the western Pacific and the contested South China Sea. The Chinese military regularly sends ships and aircraft through the channel, Taiwan's defence ministry has said.  In November, the militaries of the Philippines and the United States launched joint patrols off the waters of the Philippines' northernmost point.  Batanes is the "spearhead of the Philippines as far as the northern baseline is concerned", said Teodoro, who was accompanied by the AFP and Navy chiefs during his visit.  Teodoro's visit "signifies a pivotal moment in our nation's commitment to territorial defence and national security", the Philippine navy said.  Reuters reported in August that the US military was in talks to develop a civilian port in Batanes, a move that would boost American access to strategically located islands facing Taiwan.  The Philippines in 2023 almost doubled the number of its military bases that US forces can access, including three facing Taiwan. China, which claims democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, has said those moves were "stoking the fire" of regional tensions.  Batanes served as one of the training sites during last year's joint military exercises, known as Balikatan, which involved more than 17,000 Filipino and American troops, making it the biggest ever edition of the annual military drills.
—Reuters

Philippines boosts defense near Taiwan, Gilberto Teodoro orders increased troops and infrastructure. Bashi Channel tensions rise.

Philippines to boost military presence in islands facing Taiwan

North 24 Parganas: The Islamic Association for Peace held a protest on Saturday in front of the Chinese Consulate in the North 24 Parganas district against the alleged persecution of Uyghur Muslims by China and the wrong inclusion of Arunachal Pradesh in the Chinese standard map 2023.
The Islamic Association protested with posters and banners on the street opposite the Chinese Consulate Office at Salt Lake, based in the Bidhannagar area. A team of police was, therefore, deployed in the area to prevent any untoward situation. The protestors demanded the exclusion of Arunachal Pradesh from the Chinese standard map and also to stop the persecution of the Uyghur Muslim community in China. Besides, they also demanded a boycott of Chinese products.  "We have come here to peacefully protest against the atrocities against Uighur Muslims in China. We, the peace-loving Muslims of the world, want all humans to live in peace. We want peace for everyone; that's why we are staging a sit-in protest for some time so that the whole world gets to know that we want all humans to remain human, and no one should commit atrocities in the name of religion. This is what we want," Abdullah, a protestor, told ANI. "We have seen the atrocities against Muslims in China through Facebook and YouTube. Therefore, we will appeal to the Chinese government to keep their Muslims at peace. Everyone should live like brothers; we are making this appeal from India, Bharatwarsh," he added. China has been accused of committing grave human rights abuses and persecution of minority communities, especially those from the Uyghur community in the Xinjiang province. A 2022 report by the UN titled 'Xinjiang Report', found that Beijing's actions against Uyghurs and other minorities could amount to "crimes against humanity." Since 2018, several human rights bodies, including those of the UN have docmented mounting human rights abuses. However, despite a seemingly high acceptance rate, China broadly rejected recommendations on the rights of Uyghurs and Tibetans, cooperation with the UN and unrestricted UN access to all regions of the country, enforced disappearances and arbitrary detention, the death penalty and the ratification of international treaties. Recently, China's human rights record faced international scrutiny during the fourth Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, taking place from January 22 to February 2. Meanwhile, in August last year, China released the 2023 edition of its so-called "standard map," incorporating the country's claims over the nine-dash line, thereby laying claim to a large part of the South China Sea. The map also shows Arunachal Pradesh, which China claims is "South Tibet," as part of its territory. India lodged a strong protest against China, rejecting claims made by Beijing in the so-called "standard map" and saying they have no basis to claim India's territory. The Ministry of External Affairs said such steps from the Chinese side would only complicate the resolution of the boundary question. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said it is an "old habit" of China to stake claims on territories that do not belong to them. He dismissed Beijing's "absurd claims" and said "putting out a map does not mean anything." Other than India, several other countries, namely the United States, the Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Taiwan, also condemned Beijing's move.&nbsp;
—ANI

Islamic Association protests China's map inclusion of Arunachal Pradesh and persecution of Uyghur Muslims. Global condemnation rises.

Protests staged outside Chinese consulate in West Bengal against persecution of Uyghurs

Islamic Association protests China's map inclusion of Arunachal Pradesh and persecution of Uyghur Muslims. Global condemnation rises.


Pauri: Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt on Saturday inaugurated a statue of India's first Chief of Defence Staff Late General Bipin Rawat and an 80 feet high tricolour at Talla Banas village of Uttarakhand's Pauri district. The tricolour was established by the 128 Battalion Territorial Army (Rajputana Rifles) and General Bipin Rawat Memorial Foundation. General Rawat's daughter Tarini Rawat was also present on the occasion. Earlier in February, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh unveiled a statue of Gen Bipin Rawat at a school in Dehradun, describing him as a person who brought significant reform in the history of the Indian Army. Singh was addressing students at The Tons Bridge School in Dehradun where he said the appointment of Gen Rawat as CDS was a significant reform in the history of the Indian Army. The creation of this post itself shows the determination of the government towards the empowerment of the forces and their respect. On December 8, 2021, General Rawat along with his wife Madhulika Rawat and 11 others lost their lives in a helicopter crash in Coonoor, Tamil Nadu. PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, YSM, SM, VSM, ADC General Rawat was also the former General Officer Commanding of 19 Infantry Division and commanded the Division in 2012. —ANI

Minister of State for Defence Ajay Bhatt on Saturday inaugurated a statue of India's first Chief of Defence Staff Late General Bipin Rawat

MoS Defence Ajay Bhatt Inaugurates Gen Bipin Rawat's Statue In Uttarakhand

Singapore: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday dismissed China's repeated claims on Arunachal Pradesh as 'ludicrous' and asserted that the frontier state was a 'natural part of India'.
In probably his first public comments on China's frequent claims on Arunachal Pradesh and its opposition to Indian leaders visiting the state, Jaishankar said it was not a new issue.  "This is not a new issue. I mean China has laid claim, it has expanded its claim. The claims are ludicrous to begin with and remain ludicrous today," he said in response to a question on the Arunachal issue after delivering a lecture at the prestigious NUS Institute of South Asian Studies here.  He emphasised that Arunachal Pradesh was a 'natural part of India.'  "So, I think we've been very clear, very consistent on this. And I think you know that is something which will be part of the boundary discussions which are taking place," he said.  Jaishankar's comments came days after the Ministry of External Affairs dismissed the Chinese defence ministry's assertions.
"We have noted the comments made by the Spokesperson of the Chinese Defence Ministry advancing absurd claims over the territory of the Indian State of Arunachal Pradesh. Repeating baseless arguments in this regard does not lend such claims any validity. Arunachal Pradesh was, is and will always be an integral and inalienable part of India. Its people will continue to benefit from our development programmes and infrastructure projects," the MEA said in a statement.  Earlier, the Chinese foreign ministry had objected to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Arunachal Pradesh.  "We reject the comments made by the Chinese side regarding the visit of the Prime Minister to Arunachal Pradesh. Indian leaders visit Arunachal Pradesh from time to time, as they visit other States of India," the MEA said in a separate response last week.  Objecting to such visits or India's developmental projects does not stand to reason. Further, it will not change the reality that the State of Arunachal Pradesh was, is, and will always be an integral and inalienable part of India. The Chinese side has been made aware of this consistent position on several occasions, the statement said.
—PTI

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar rejects China's claims on Arunachal Pradesh, affirming it as an inherent part of India. 

Jaishankar dismisses China's claims on Arunachal Pradesh as "ludicrous"

Warsaw [Poland]: Poland on Sunday activated its aircraft after a Russian cruise missile aimed at Ukraine entered its airspace, CNN reported. "On March 24 at 4:23 a.m., there was a violation of Polish airspace by one of the cruise missiles launched tonight by the long-range aviation of the Russian Federation," the Operational Command of the Polish armed forces said on X.
"The object flew into Polish [air]space near the village of Oserdow (Lublin Voivodeship) and spent 39 seconds in it," Operational Command said. "It was observed by military radar systems throughout its flight." It came after Ukrainian officials reported Russia had launched about 20 missiles and seven Shahed attack drones targeting the western Ukrainian region of Lviv, which is near the Polish border. There were also multiple explosions reported in the Ukrainian capital of Kyiv, CNN reported. Lviv mayor Andrii Sadovyi said the missiles had targeted critical infrastructure, but that no hits were reported in the city of Lviv itself.
Operational Command said on X that both Polish and allied aircraft had been activated. "All necessary procedures to ensure the security of Polish airspace have been activated," the Command added. "The Polish Military is continuously monitoring the situation on Ukrainian territory and remains on constant alert to ensure the safety of Polish airspace," it said, CNN reported. The last time Russia violated Poland's airspace was on December 29, 2023. The Polish military said at the time "an unidentified airborne object" had entered its airspace from Ukrainian territory, and later Poland's most senior military officer said "all indications" suggested it was a Russian missile. Meanwhile, Kyiv mayor Vitali Klitschko said on Telegram that a series of blasts had occurred in the Ukrainian capital, with missile fragments falling in the Desnianskyi district. "Explosions in the capital. Air defense is active. Do not leave your shelters," Klitschko said. He added that fire and rescue units were heading to the scene.
—ANI

Poland's military responds to a Russian missile entering its airspace, amid heightened tensions with ongoing attacks in Ukraine's Lviv and Kyiv.

Poland activates aircraft after Russian cruise missile enters airspace

New Delhi [India]: Coming down heavily on the Congress party for giving away the Katchatheevu island to Sri Lanka during the tenure of the Indira Gandhi government in 1974, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday that this has infuriated people, adding that the Congress can never be trusted. The Prime Minister accused the Congress of weakening India's unity, integrity and interests during its years of governance.
"Eye opening and startling! New facts reveal how Congress callously gave away #Katchatheevu. This has angered every Indian and reaffirmed in people's minds- we can't ever trust Congress! Weakening India's unity, integrity and interests has been Congress' way of working for 75 years and counting," PM Modi posted on X, citing a news report. It is pertinent to mention that the island, located between Rameswaram (India) and Sri Lanka, was traditionally used by both Sri Lankan and Indian fishermen. In 1974, then prime minister Indira Gandhi accepted Katchatheevu as Sri Lankan territory under the "Indo-Sri Lankan Maritime agreement". The 1974 Agreement regarding historic waters between Sri Lanka and India in the Palk Strait and the Palk Bay formally confirmed Sri Lanka's sovereignty over the Island.
Earlier, in August last year, during his reply to a debate on a no-confidence motion, PM Modi attacked the Congress for dividing "Maa Bharati" into three parts for political interests and also pointed out that the Katchatheevu Island was ceded to Sri Lanka during the tenure of the Indira Gandhi government in 1974. "While Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister, an aerial bombing in Mizoram happened and Katchatheevu island, now a part of Sri Lanka, was given to another country. "Was it not a part of Maa Bharati?" he said. "Just ask those who have gone out, what is Katchatheevu? And where is it located? DMK Government, their CM writes to me - Modi ji bring back Katchatheevu. It is an island but who gave it to another country. Was it not a part of Maa Bharati (Mother India)? And you broke it. It happened under the leadership of Indira Gandhi," PM Modi said.
—ANI

PM Modi condemns Congress for the Katchatheevu handover to Sri Lanka in 1974, stirring controversy over India's territorial decisions.

"We can't ever trust Congress": PM Modi over Katchatheevu island

New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s accusation against the Opposition regarding the Katchatheevu island row stating that the the country's first Prime Minister, wanted to give away the island to Sri Lanka.  The issue pertains to the year 1974 when the then Indira Gandhi government had accepted the island was a Sri Lankan area under the India-Sri Lankan maritime agreement.
The issue has again resurfaced after a media report based on a RTI reply received by Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai on the 1974 pact.  PM Modi yesterday shared a statement by late DMK MP Era Sezhiyan expressing anger at the India-Sri Lanka Maritime Agreement signed by the then Indira Gandhi government by which India relinquished its claim on Katchatheevu Island and called it "an unholy agreement."  Addressing a press conference in the national capital, EAM S Jaishankar said, "Today, it is important for the public to know and the people to judge, this issue has been hidden too long from the gaze of the public."  "... We are talking about 1958 and 1960... The main people in the case wanted to make sure that at least we should get the fishing rights... The island was given away in 1974 and the fishing rights were given away in 1976... One, the most basic recurring (aspect) is the indifference shown by the then central government and the PMs about the territory of India...  “That fact is they simply did not care...,” Jaishankar said in his press conference.  “In an observation given by the then PM Jawaharlal Nehru in May 1961, he wrote, 'I attach no importance at all to this little island and I would have no hesitation in giving up our claim to it. I do not like matters like this pending indefinitely and being raised again and again in parliament.' So, to Pandit Nehru, this was a little island, it had no importance, he saw it as a nuisance... For him, the sooner you give it away, the better... This view continued on to Indira Gandhi as well..." the EAM added.  The External affairs minister put the Congress in the dock for completely ignoring Indian concerns on the island.   "The PM (Indira Gandhi) is said to have remarked in the AICC meeting that this is a little rock. I am reminded of those days when Pandit Nehru called our northern boundary as a place where not a blade of grass grew. I would like to remind them that after this historic statement by PM Nehru, he never regained the confidence of the country. The same was going to happen to the PM (Indira Gandhi) when she says that this is only a little rock and that there is nothing to worry about the territories of our country.'... So, this is not just one PM... This dismissive attitude...was the historic Congress attitude towards Katchatheevu..." Jaishankar said.
—ANI

EAM Jaishankar criticizes Congress's indifference towards Katchatheevu Island, revisiting the India-Sri Lanka maritime pact and its political fallout.

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