1 killed, Valley off internet again
cut off highspeed mobile internet services in Kashmir as the separatist Hurriyat called for a shutdown in Kashmir on Friday to protest the killing of a civilian by security forces, sparking fresh tension in the valley.
Adil Ahmed (22) was killed on Tuesday night when security forces fired on people protesting a cordon-and-search operation in Shopian district. He was hit by a bullet in the chest and was declared dead at a local hospital.
A statement said the shutdown has been called to “express people’s resentment and indignation against the brutal killing of young Adil Ahmed Magray by the Indian forces”. “...After Friday prayers, peaceful protest will be held across the valley against the killing,” it added. Late on Tuesday night, the authorities suspended 3G and 4G services.
Three militants were gunned at Machhil sector near the LoC in north Kashmir on Wednesday, army said. An army official said in the evening: “One more terrorist killed, taking the toll to three.” He added that three weapons were recovered.
The Centre is gearing up to amend the Cinematograph Act, which will do away with censorship and allow the grading of films based on their content, as suggested by the Shyam Benegal Committee.
On Tuesday, Union information and broadcasting minister M Venkaiah Naidu met filmmakers in Mumbai and said the government is “in agreement with most of the recommendations of the report and all efforts” would be made to “facilitate the amendments”. Naidu also sought the views of the film-makers on the recommendations of the Benegal committee, which include adding more categories such as A+ (for extreme violence and sex scenes) and online certification of films.
The CBFC is an autonomous body under the I&B ministry and films can be screened in theatres and on television only after certification from it. While the report was submitted over a year ago, sources said the government could introduce a Bill to amend the Act in the forthcoming session of Parliament.
“The process of consulting stakeholders was lengthy. Changes to the Act had to be legally vetted before the Bill can be taken to Parliament for approval,” a source told HT. The Committee headed by renowned film-makers Shyam Benegal submitted its report in April and August 2016. It was set up by the NDA government.