LoC trade with PoK suspended; routes being used by terror-elements
What's the story
The Center on Thursday suspended the LoC (Line of Control) trade between Jammu & Kashmir and Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK).
The Ministry of Home Affairs has issued orders for suspending the LoC trade today.
According to the government, the step has been taken in view of the LoC trade routes being misused by terror elements based in Pakistan.
Here's more.
Details
Cross LoC trade routes being misused by Pakistan-based elements: MHA
"...Government of India has been receiving reports that the Cross LoC trade routes are being misused by the Pakistan based elements for funneling illegal weapons, narcotics, and fake currency, etc.," said the MHA.
"It may be recalled that the LoC trade is meant to facilitate the exchange of goods of common use between local populations across the LoC in Jammu & Kashmir," it added.
MHA release
MHA release highlights banned terror outfits fueling separatism
The MHA release also stressed on banned terror organizations that are fueling separatism in the Kashmir valley.
It said, "During ongoing probe of certain cases by NIA, it has been brought out that a significant number of trading concerns engaged in LoC trade are operated by persons closely associated with banned terror organizations involved in fueling terrorism/separatism."
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Issue of reopening LoC trade will be revisited thereafter: MHA
"...It's decided to suspend LoC trade at Salamabad & Chakkan-da-Bagh in J&K. Meanwhile, a stricter regulatory and enforcement mechanism is being worked out and will be put in place in consultation with various agencies. The issue of reopening...LoC trade will be revisited thereafter," said MHA.