SRINAGAR, Kashmir — The Indian government said it would halt operations against separatist militants in Jammu and Kashmir State during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which began on Thursday. It was the first time in 18 years that the Indian government declared a cease-fire for Ramadan in the territory. Over the last year, Kashmir has been sliding deeper into turmoil, with dozens of militants killed, huge protests erupting and a heavy sense of despair settling over the disputed territory. “This is the right time for a cease-fire,” said Bashir Ahmed Khanday, whose son, a militant, was recently killed. Both India and Pakistan claim it, and the battles over this area have killed tens of thousands of people.

Source: New York Times May 17, 2018 10:30 UTC