New Delhi, August 8: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's special address to the nation, which was earlier scheduled at 4 pm today, will now be broadcast at 8 pm. The speech would be aired live by all news channels, including state broadcaster DD News. The address was earlier planned on Wednesday, but postponed due to the demise of former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj.

On social media, the All India Radio (AIR) had earlier tweeted that the Prime Minister's address will begin at 4pm. Shortly thereafter, the tweet was retracted and a statement was issued on the Prime Minister's Office's Twitter handle about the change in timing. Pakistan Suspends Samjhauta Express Services After Article 370 Abrogation From Jammu and Kashmir

Here is What the PMO Said on Modi's Speech:

While the government had earlier conveyed that the PM's address would be focused on Article 370 abrogation and the situation in Jammu & Kashmir, the PMO statement has not mentioned whether Modi would be making any other announcement.

The address comes amid deteriorating bilateral relations with Pakistan, which has marked strong dissent over the "unilateral" revocation of Jammu & Kashmir's special status by India.

On Wednesday, the Pakistan Foreign Office issued a statement "downgrading" the bilateral relations with India. It further announced that the Indian envoy has been expelled, and Islamabad's ambassador to New Delhi has been recalled.

The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) expressed disappointment over Pakistan's decision, and asked it to review the stand taken on downgrading bilateral ties.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 08, 2019 02:51 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).