Poonch mystery

Srinagar, Jan. 8: The army tonight said the nine-day gunfight in Poonch with militants concluded but there was no word on the fate of the 10 rebels.

“The operation has concluded in the afternoon but the search operation is continuing. We do not know where the militants have gone but may be able to tell that in the morning,” an army spokesperson said.

SC on loans

New Delhi (PTI): The Supreme Court has held that secured creditors like the state financial corporations have the first right to recover outstanding loans. The Centre contended that the state had the first right to recover tax dues as without funds it would not be able to discharge its functions efficiently.

Nepal priests

Kathmandu (PTI): Indian priests have resumed duties at the Pashupatinath temple in Kathmandu. Head priest Mahabaleshwor Bhatta’s family has been leading the prayers for over 300 years. The Maoist-led government reversed its decision to replace them with Nepalese priests after protests from Hindu groups and political parties in India and Nepal.

Kalam better

New Delhi (PTI): Former President A.P.J Abdul Kalam, being treated at an army hospital in Delhi for eczema, is likely to be discharged in a day or two, sources said.

Fire at fort

Jammu (PTI): A fire damaged a portion of the heritage Sheesh Mahal fort in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday night. The fire broke out when labourers staying in the fort for repairs were cooking.

Valley link

Jammu (PTI): The 300km Jammu-Srinagar national highway, the only surface link between Kashmir and the rest of the country, was reopened on Thursday for one-way traffic. The highway was closed on January 6 because of snowfall. Downward traffic will be allowed from Friday.