Sheikh Rashid shuts down train service to India, vows it won’t ‘operate’ under his tenure

Railways Ministers Sheikh Rashid announced on Thursday that Pakistan is discontinuing the Samjhauta Express strain service, which links the country with India.

Addressing a press conference, Rashid said the train service will not operate as long as he is the minister. He shared that the bogies of the Samjhauta Express will be attached to special Eid trains, which will allow more people to travel.

The minister assured that people who have bought tickets for the express will be reimbursed. Rashid further said that Pakistan supports peace and does not want war, however, he added, Pakistan will not stay silent over Indian atrocities in occupied Kashmir.

Earlier on Wednesday, the National Security Committee (NSC) decided to downgrade Pakistan’s diplomatic relations with India. It also decided to suspend trade between the two countries. Security arrangements across Pakistan have been tightened and Prime Minister Imran Khan has directed the army to remain vigilant.

All recent development has come after India stripped Indian occupied Kashmir of special status, prompting a strong reaction. By revoking Article 370, it means that now Indian citizens from other states can purchase land or property in Indian occupied Kashmir.