Tensions have intensified in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) after Pakistani security forces used tear gas on protesters amid renewed clashes involving members of the Joint Awami Action Committee. The situation has worsened as a shutdown strike continues alongside a communications blackout imposed after deadly confrontations between demonstrators and security forces in Rawalakot and Muzaffarabad.
Large-scale protests have spread across parts of PoJK, with hundreds of people taking to the streets. Normal life remains disrupted in several towns, including Bhimber and Kotli, where shutdowns are ongoing. The unrest follows clashes on Sunday night that reportedly left seven civilians dead, according to Dawn. The government crackdown has triggered international concern. Over 50 British MPs have written to UK Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, raising alarm over reports of internet shutdowns, arrests, and escalating instability in the region.
In a letter dated June 6, Bradford East MP Imran Hussain, who chairs the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Kashmir, cited accounts from the region describing disrupted communications and growing unrest. Lawmakers said many British Kashmiris were unable to reach relatives in PoJK.
They also expressed concern about reported arrests, including British nationals, and the breakdown of dialogue between authorities and the Joint Awami Action Committee. The MPs warned that communication restrictions in such a volatile environment could heighten uncertainty and further escalate tensions.
Former Jammu and Kashmir DGP Shesh Paul Vaid strongly criticized the violence, alleging excessive force by Pakistani security agencies against civilians and peaceful protesters. He said multiple casualties had occurred due to alleged indiscriminate firing involving the Pakistan Army, Rangers, and local police.
Vaid said the crisis exposed what he called Pakistan’s “false narrative” on Kashmir, arguing that residents of PoJK are increasingly challenging Islamabad’s policies. Comparing the situation to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre, he claimed that peaceful protesters were met with gunfire instead of dialogue and accused Pakistan of repeatedly suppressing dissent rather than addressing public concerns.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
The Centre has approved the operation of a special train between Jammu and Haridwar for devotees travelling on the occasion of Somvati Amavasya on June 14 and 15, Union Minister of State for Science and Technology Jitendra Singh announced on Tuesday. The proposal was made following a request by Prem Nath Dogra, Jammu and Kashmir State Executive Member and In-Charge of the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, who sought a dedicated train service to help pilgrims visit Haridwar in Uttarakhand during the religious occasion.
Expressing his appreciation, Jitendra Singh thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for responding positively to the demand. In a post on X, Singh described the move as “good news” for the people of Kathua, Hiranagar, and Jammu, adding that no major regional demand had remained unaddressed during the past 12 years under the Modi government.
Singh had written to Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw, forwarding Dogra’s request for the special service from Jammu to Haridwar on June 14 and the return journey on June 15 to facilitate pilgrims observing Somvati Amavasya. Indian Railways regularly introduces special trains during festivals and pilgrimage seasons to accommodate increased passenger demand. Recently, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini flagged off a special train from Kurukshetra to Somnath in Gujarat, carrying over 1,100 devotees, while highlighting the role of pilgrimages in promoting social harmony and preserving cultural heritage.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
A police officer was injured in a grenade attack on the Badh Bir Police Station in Peshawar on 9 June. Officials said unidentified militants threw a hand grenade at the station, leaving one officer wounded. The injured personnel was promptly taken for medical care, while police units quickly reached the scene in large numbers to secure the area and launch an investigation.
Authorities have initiated a search operation to arrest those involved. Forensic teams are collecting evidence from the site to help identify the attackers, and security has been reinforced across the region to prevent further incidents. Officials stated that the investigation is ongoing and efforts are underway to disrupt militant networks operating in the area.
The incident follows a recent fatal attack involving Police Constable Muhammad Zahir, who was critically injured in a grenade assault at the Se-ra Khawra check post under Matani Police Station on 27 February. Despite treatment, he later died from his injuries. His funeral was held with full official honors at Malik Saad Shaheed Police Lines in Peshawar, attended by senior police officers, army personnel, colleagues, and family members.
A series of such attacks in Peshawar highlights the continuing security challenges in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where militant groups have repeatedly targeted law enforcement sites. Analysts say these incidents reflect a broader pattern aimed at weakening security institutions and eroding public confidence, with police stations and check posts often being primary targets. The latest attack once again highlights the risks faced by security forces in the region. While the injured officer is said to be stable, authorities have reiterated their commitment to bringing those responsible to justice and strengthening security around vulnerable locations.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Indian Defence News.
Actor Anupam Kher has congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi ahead of a major milestone in Indian political history, as Modi is set to become the longest continuously serving elected Prime Minister of India. On June 10, Modi will complete 4,399 consecutive days in office, surpassing Jawaharlal Nehru’s record of 4,398 consecutive days following India’s first general election.
Speaking to ANI, Kher called the moment a significant chapter in Indian democracy, noting that such a long tenure reflects not only individual capability but also the strength of democracy and public trust. He said sustaining people’s confidence for so long requires consistent effort, a clear vision, tough decision-making, and strong commitment to the nation. He further said Modi’s rise from an ordinary background to the highest office is an inspiring example of determination and hard work, adding that he has remained a “centre of hope” for millions over the years.
Kher also pointed to progress in areas such as technology, financial inclusion, rural infrastructure, and India’s growing global influence, praising the contributions of scientists, youth, armed forces, and citizens. He congratulated the Prime Minister and wished him continued health and strength to serve the country. Actor Paresh Rawal also extended his congratulations, calling it a fortunate moment for the country and expressing confidence in continued progress under Modi’s leadership.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from ANI.
SpaceX’s IPO is reportedly heavily oversubscribed, with institutional investors placing orders worth over $10 billion as demand builds for what could be a record-breaking listing. The banks managing the offering are expected to close institutional order books after Wednesday’s market close to assess demand and finalize pricing. The IPO is set to be priced on June 11 and begin trading the following day. SpaceX is offering 555.6 million shares at $135 each, aiming to raise about $75 billion and value the company at roughly $1.8 trillion. Retail investors may still be able to place orders, with up to 30% of shares allocated to them. The IPO is expected to be the largest ever, surpassing Saudi Aramco’s 2019 debut, with growing interest boosted by SpaceX’s expanding AI and cloud-related deals.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Bloomberg.
Israel and Iran have carried out direct strikes against each other for the first time since an April ceasefire, increasing concerns that the situation could escalate into a wider regional conflict. The Israeli attacks appear to go against advice from Donald Trump, who reportedly urged Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu not to respond militarily to Iran in order to protect ongoing peace negotiations from collapsing. Journalist Nosheen Iqbal discusses the developments with the Guardian’s senior international correspondent Julian Borger.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
On Made in SG, Melanie Oliveiro chats with Singaporean singer-songwriter Frances Tan, who recently competed in the Commonwealth Song Contest — an international music competition featuring participants from all 56 Commonwealth countries. Tan shares her experience of being chosen as a Grand Finalist, representing Singapore alongside six other finalist nations. She also discusses her original track, Just Me, which she submitted as her contest entry.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.
A second batch of more than 1,000 pages of documents concerning Peter Mandelson’s appointment as US ambassador has been made public. The files were expected to shed light on what ministers knew about Mandelson’s connections to Epstein and the vetting process behind his approval. Instead, they exposed internal government tensions and early concerns over Keir Starmer’s leadership. Lucy Hough talks with the Guardian’s head of national news, Archie Bland.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
On Saturday, Donald Trump stated that negotiations with Tehran were progressing positively and that a deal to end the conflict was largely in place. Just a day later, the United States carried out strikes in southern Iran. By Thursday, Trump had shared a draft peace proposal for the Iran conflict with allied nations. As the future of a US-Iran agreement remains uncertain, Jonathan Freedland speaks with Ali Vaez of the International Crisis Group to explore why Trump has repeatedly shifted his approach to ending the war.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.
