Srinagar, Mar 29: The officers of the 2013 batch of the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) have flagged âprolonged and acute stagnationâ in their career progression and sought structural and administrative reforms. The JKAS officers have submitted a representation to the J&K Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha and sought his intervention into the matter. The JKAS officers said that that despite completing over 13 years in service at the Junior Scale, they have not been promoted to the Time Scale. "The eligibility condition requires only four years of service for it," the representation reads. The officers have attributed the stagnation to multiple systemic issues, including non-utilisation of leave reserve posts, a large number of vacant posts in departmental feeding services, and the reduction of the promotional quota for direct recruits to 50 percent under SRO-256 of 2016. "These factors have curtailed promotional avenues and created an imbalance between direct recruits and departmental officers," it reads. The officers highlighted the issue of quota disparity and said that maintaining a 50:50 ratio both at the entry level and at the Time Scale level effectively gives a âdouble advantageâ to departmental feeding services, placing direct recruits at a disadvantage despite their selection through a competitive process. The representation further pointed to a comparative disadvantage vis-Ă -vis other states such as Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Kerala, Haryana and Arunachal Pradesh, where direct recruits to state administrative services enjoy higher promotional quotas ensuring timely career progression. The JKAS officers said that around 728 Junior Scale JKAS officers have been appointed since 2011, out of which more than 575 direct recruits are still awaiting induction into the Time Scale. "Nearly 150 officers from departmental feeding services continue to progress faster," the representation reads. The officers also raised concerns over supersession and alleged that several departmental officers junior to JKAS officers of the 2012â2015 batches have already been promoted, leading to âserious administrative anomaliesâ and impacting morale within the service. "Officers from services such as Law, Accounts and Planning, appointed after 2012, have already moved up one or two promotional levels, while JKAS direct recruits continue to await their first promotion," it reads. Referring to the guidelines issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the officers said that service rules were required to be reviewed every five years to prevent stagnation and ensure fairness. "The guidelines discourage denial of promotion to senior officers on the grounds of earlier eligibility of juniors," it reads. The representation reads that out of a total sanctioned strength of 800 posts, as many as 305 posts are vacant across various categories, including duty posts, technical quota, leave reserve and training reserve. "At least 30 posts are immediately available, while additional vacancies exist in unutilised technical quota and reserve categories," it reads. The JKAS officers have urged the administration to revise the promotional quota in favour of direct recruits to a 67:33 ratio on the lines of the IASâJKAS model and abolish the largely unutilised technical quota, besides amending the service rules in conformity with DoPT guidelines and practices followed in other states. They called for immediate utilisation of vacant duty posts, leave reserve, training reserve and technical quota posts to grant long-pending promotions. The JKAS officers said that timely promotions were essential to maintain administrative efficiency, institutional integrity and morale within the service.
Jammu, Mar 29: J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said that the long-cherished dreams and aspirations of the people were steadily turning into reality. He said that J&K was prominently showcasing its vast tourism potential on the global stage under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He was speaking at the felicitation ceremony of Jammu Marathon at MA Stadium here. âUnder the leadership of PM Modi, J&K is now showcasing its boundless tourism potential on the world map and the long-awaited dreams and aspirations are becoming a reality.â The J&K Lieutenant Governor recalled that when Government of India first conceived the Kashmir Marathon in December 2023 meeting, the goal wasn't just to organize a race but it envisioned a new Jammu Kashmir announcing its arrival on the global sporting stage. He said that through Jammu Marathon, the participants have not only discovered new experiences within themselves but also witnessed the profound changes sweeping Jammu Kashmir. Pertinently, the maiden international half Marathon in Jammu on Sunday, organized by J&K Tourism department, featuring 21 km, 10 km and 5 km race categories, witnessed the participation of more than 3000 runners from across the country and abroad. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha observed that fueled by the citizens' unyielding resolve, Jammu Kashmir Union Territory is setting new benchmarks in development. âThe renewed resolve taking root in our sporting arena. I am especially delighted that, in pursuit of Fit India, we are also igniting a new sporting revolution in Jammu Kashmir,â the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor said that the Jammu Marathon symbolizes the profound transformation Jammu Kashmir has embraced since 2019. âPeace, prosperity and enabling conditions have made the UT a destination for world-class events. Its dream realised at last, as after seven decades, J&K claims its rightful place on the global stage,â he added. Terming the Jammu Marathon as a historic milestone, the Lieutenant Governor said that the Jammu has firmly established itself on the global running map. He said the success of the mega event promises a surge in tourism to the enchanting city of Jammu, benefiting Trade and Businesses and heralding an era of comprehensive development. âI see the marathon as the one event where runners don't worry about trophies, rankings, or medals. They just think about the next step. And that's the biggest lesson from a marathon," he said. He said that J&K itself embodies this principle. "Since 2019, we have advanced one step at a time, crafting a new identity for this Union Territory. We have transformed it into a hub of peace and prosperity, now capable of hosting international marathons, cricket tournaments, and even international events,â the Lieutenant Governor said. Â âUnion Territory has moved forward step by step and has now transformed into a completely different landscape. Events such as international-level marathons, the prestigious G20 Summit meetings, and international cricket tournaments are now being successfully organized in J&K," he said. He said that few years ago, no one would have imagined holding such international events in Jammu and Kashmir. "Today, participants themselves are witnesses to the positive changes the region has undergone,â he said. He invited tourists and participants from across the country and abroad. He urged people to visit Jammu and Kashmir and experience its transformation firsthand, emphasizing that the region is now ready to host world-class events in a peaceful and welcoming environment. Minister for Youth Services & Sports Satish Sharma, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary Tourism Department Dr. Ashish Chandra Verma, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, IGP Jammu Bhim Sen Tuti and senior officials of civil and police administration were present. Film actors Milind Soman and Gul Panag besides prominent citizens, sportspersons and youth in large number also attended the felicitation ceremony.
Handwara, Mar 29: In a vibrant display of sportsmanship and youth engagement, the Indian Armyâs Langate Camp organised the North Kashmir Volleyball Premier League (NKVPL) Phase-1 at BHS Hangah, Handwara, drawing an enthusiastic response from players and spectators alike. Six teams from different parts of the region participated in the tournament, showcasing the growing passion for volleyball among local youth. The final match, played between Langate Spartans and Rafiabad Tigers, turned out to be a thrilling contest, with Rafiabad Tigers securing a narrow 3-2 victory to lift the title. A large crowd from various areas thronged the venue to witness the high-energy final, cheering for their teams and adding to the electrifying atmosphere. Former DDC member Mawer, Khursheed Ahmad, while appreciating the initiative, said that such events are vital for channeling the energy of youth in a positive direction. "Sports activities like this not only help in identifying local talent but also play a significant role in promoting unity and harmony among people,â he said. Locals also lauded the efforts behind organizing the tournament, stating that it provided a valuable platform for young players to showcase their skills while fostering a sense of community spirit. The successful conclusion of the league highlighted the importance of sports in strengthening social bonds and encouraging constructive engagement among the youth.
Kupwara, Mar 28: The Indian Army Saturday organized a free medical-cum-veterinary camp at Wader Rajwar in Handwara Sub District, benefiting a large number of local residents and livestock owners. A team of doctors from GMC Handwara, along with medical team from the Indian Army and veterinary specialists, participated in the camp. During the programme, more than 350 medical patients were examined and provided with free medical consultation and medicines. In addition, veterinary doctors conducted health check-ups of dozens of animals, offering treatment and distributing medicines free of cost to livestock owners. The initiative was widely appreciated by locals, who expressed gratitude to the Indian Army and the medical teams for bringing essential healthcare services to the remote area.
Srinagar, Mar 29: The officers of the 2013 batch of the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) have flagged âprolonged and acute stagnationâ in their career progression and sought structural and administrative reforms. The JKAS officers have submitted a representation to the J&K Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha and sought his intervention into the matter. The JKAS officers said that that despite completing over 13 years in service at the Junior Scale, they have not been promoted to the Time Scale. "The eligibility condition requires only four years of service for it," the representation reads. The officers have attributed the stagnation to multiple systemic issues, including non-utilisation of leave reserve posts, a large number of vacant posts in departmental feeding services, and the reduction of the promotional quota for direct recruits to 50 percent under SRO-256 of 2016. "These factors have curtailed promotional avenues and created an imbalance between direct recruits and departmental officers," it reads. The officers highlighted the issue of quota disparity and said that maintaining a 50:50 ratio both at the entry level and at the Time Scale level effectively gives a âdouble advantageâ to departmental feeding services, placing direct recruits at a disadvantage despite their selection through a competitive process. The representation further pointed to a comparative disadvantage vis-Ă -vis other states such as Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Kerala, Haryana and Arunachal Pradesh, where direct recruits to state administrative services enjoy higher promotional quotas ensuring timely career progression. The JKAS officers said that around 728 Junior Scale JKAS officers have been appointed since 2011, out of which more than 575 direct recruits are still awaiting induction into the Time Scale. "Nearly 150 officers from departmental feeding services continue to progress faster," the representation reads. The officers also raised concerns over supersession and alleged that several departmental officers junior to JKAS officers of the 2012â2015 batches have already been promoted, leading to âserious administrative anomaliesâ and impacting morale within the service. "Officers from services such as Law, Accounts and Planning, appointed after 2012, have already moved up one or two promotional levels, while JKAS direct recruits continue to await their first promotion," it reads. Referring to the guidelines issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the officers said that service rules were required to be reviewed every five years to prevent stagnation and ensure fairness. "The guidelines discourage denial of promotion to senior officers on the grounds of earlier eligibility of juniors," it reads. The representation reads that out of a total sanctioned strength of 800 posts, as many as 305 posts are vacant across various categories, including duty posts, technical quota, leave reserve and training reserve. "At least 30 posts are immediately available, while additional vacancies exist in unutilised technical quota and reserve categories," it reads. The JKAS officers have urged the administration to revise the promotional quota in favour of direct recruits to a 67:33 ratio on the lines of the IASâJKAS model and abolish the largely unutilised technical quota, besides amending the service rules in conformity with DoPT guidelines and practices followed in other states. They called for immediate utilisation of vacant duty posts, leave reserve, training reserve and technical quota posts to grant long-pending promotions. The JKAS officers said that timely promotions were essential to maintain administrative efficiency, institutional integrity and morale within the service.
Srinagar, Feb 25: Vice-President C P Radhakrishnan arrived in Srinagar on Wednesday evening on his maiden visit to Jammu and Kashmir, marking his first official engagement in the Union Territory since assuming office. The officials said the Vice-President was received at Srinagar Airport by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdulah and other senior officials. âDelighted to welcome Honâble Vice-President of India, Shri C P Radhakrishnan Ji at the Srinagar Airport,â LG Sinha wrote on X.     Office of the J&K Chief Minister wrote on X that the CM received Honâble Vice-President of India upon his arrival at Srinagar Airport today. After landing in Srinagar, the Vice-President drove to Lok Bhavan where LG Sinha presented him with a souvenir, said an official.  He said the Vice-President will attend the 21st convocation of the University of Kashmir as a chief guest at its Hazratbal campus on Thursday. âThe programme is scheduled to begin in the forenoon with the academic procession, followed by the Vice-Chancellorâs annual report highlighting the Universityâs academic achievements, research output and institutional milestones,â said the official, adding, âVice-President Radhakrishnan will then deliver the convocation address and formally confer degrees upon graduating students.â He said that Lieutenant Governor and KU Chancellor, Manoj Sinha, will preside over the convocation, while Chief Minister and Pro-Chancellor, Omar Abdullah, will attend the event as a guest of honour. âA total of 59,558 degrees â 44,910 graduates, 13,545 postgraduates, 461 MD/MS, four MCH, 18 MPhil and 620 PhDs â will be conferred at the convocation,â said an official. KU Vice-Chancellor Nilofer Khan said the convocation "celebrates the academic accomplishments of our students and reaffirms our commitment to quality education, research and public engagement." She added that the presence of the Vice-President of India at the event reflects the growing national recognition of the university's academic and research contributions. Elaborate and multi-layered security arrangements have been put in place across Srinagar, particularly in and around the HazratbalâNishatâHarwan axis. Senior police and civil administration officers have reviewed the security and logistical preparations to ensure smooth conduct of the event. Meanwhile, authorities have also issued a detailed traffic advisory for parts of Srinagar tomorrow, with restrictions to remain in force from 7:00 AM to 2:00 PM.
Udhampur, Jan 10: Minister for Education, Social Welfare, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo Saturday conducted an extensive tour of far-flung areas of Tehsil Panchari of District Udhampur and felicitated the winners of 6th ISKOI India Karate Championshipâ2025 during an impressive medal ceremony held at Government Higher Secondary School, Panchari here. Mission Director POSHAN Sajad Ahmad Ganai, Director Social Welfare Jammu Ranjeet Singh, Director Health Services Jammu, Director Colleges, PO Poshan, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Joint Director School Education Udhampur -Reasi, DDC Member Panchari, other district officers, parents of medal winners and large number of locals were also present on the occasion. Addressing the gathering, the Minister congratulated the girl achievers, their parents and the local populace on the remarkable accomplishment of young girls. She lauded their dedication, discipline and fighting spirit and expressed pride in the fact that many of these medal winners hailed from far-flung and remote areas, overcoming limited resources and challenging circumstances, to bring laurels to Jammu and Kashmir. Minister Sakeena said that the achievements of these young girl sportspersons reflect their hard work and their parents as well as the growing sports culture in the region. âYour success proves that talent knows no geographical barriers. With determination and proper guidance, our youth can excel on any national and international platform,â she stated. Highlighting the importance of sports, the Minister said that sporting activities provide a common platform for budding sportspersons to showcase their talent and prepare them to face challenges in life. She urged the participants to actively engage in sports for physical fitness, mental well-being and overall personality development. She assured continued government support for promoting sports activities, especially in rural and far-flung areas, to ensure equal opportunities for talented players. She also lauded the efforts of the International Shito-Ryu Karate Organisation of India for promoting sports culture among youth, especially in rural areas. During the ceremony, the Minister interacted with the players, coaches and parents, appreciating the role of coaches and families in nurturing young talent. She encouraged the medal winners to continue their training and aim for greater achievements at national and international competitions. During the ceremony, as many as 47 medal winners of the 6th ISKOI India Karate championshipâ2025 were felicitated by the Minister and presented trophies and prizes to them. On the sidelines of the event, Sakeena Itoo Later distributed school bags and umbrellas under the Beti Bachao Beti Padhao scheme. Later, the Minister also interacted with DDC Member Panchari, former PRI members and locals who projected several issues and demands pertaining to health, education, road and other sector before the Minister. While interacting with them, the Minister said that the Director Health Services Jammu has been given strict instructions to prepare a holistic plan for upgradation of medical care facilities at the PHC Panchari as well as addressing shortage of staff, owing to the remoteness of area from district head quarters. She further added that the maintenance of road and allied works will be taken up with concerned quarters for immediate redressal. She reaffirmed that the Government led by Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah is committed to strengthen road connectivity, health infrastructure and other essential facilities to ensure every basic service is available at the doorsteps of common people. She also said that the Tourism potential of the Panchari area will be tapped to its full extent by the Government, which will eventually lead to overall development of the area and add to its economic efficiency.
Baramulla, Jan 25: The Indian Army on Sunday organised Know Your Army event at District Police Line (DPL) Baramulla. From Artillery guns to Fly past by Drones in action and from new generation vehicles and latest equipment on display, the Dagger Division of Indian Army put on display its weapons to instill national pride among locals in Baramulla. The event was organised to commemorate 77th Republic Day with great enthusiasm and patriotic fervour. The event was organised by Dagger Division of Chinar Corps to showcase the operational capabilities of the Indian army and to inspire local youth to pursue careers in the Armed Forces, reinforcing National pride and unity. GOC, Dagger Division was the Chief Guest at the occasion while other and senior army officers and officials from civil administration were also present at the occasion. The event was declared open by the by GoC Dagger Division for the public. "Weather did not dampen the spirit of the enthusiastic locals and children who thronged the event in large numbers to witnessed the display," an official handout reads. Major highlights of the celebrations were an impressive capability display of Swarm of Drones, martial arts by Army and children of Chinar Yuva. "Children witnessing the event were enthralled by the mesmerising show of the Canine companions of soldiers," the handout reads. The people present at the occasion were entertained by vibrant, energetic and melodious Kashmiri renditions of famous songs sung by the local band, Strings of Baramulla of Chinar YUVA Center.  A captivating display of state of the art weapons and military equipment found favour with the youth. The event witnessed by approximately 1500 spectators, including Army and government officials besids the students from schools and colleges. The event received widespread appreciations from students and the local community, who expressed admiration for the discipline, dedication and combat readiness of the Indian Army. "Event successfully strengthened public confidence in the armed forces and fostered a renewed sense of patriotism among the youth of Baramulla," the handout reads.
Jammu, Mar 8: The Jammu and Kashmir Congress protested against the LPG price hike here on Sunday, saying this "anti-poor" decision by the government will add to the financial burden on the common man. Led by PCC president Tariq Hamid Karra and working president Raman Bhalla, the protesters also criticised the Indo-US trade deal, alleging that it will adversely impact the country's economy, according to a party spokesperson. The protesters gathered in Model Town, Digiana, near here, raised slogans against the ruling BJP and criticised what they described as the government's "surrender" in the Indo-US trade negotiations. The price of domestic cooking gas LPG was hiked on Saturday by a steep Rs 60 per cylinder, the second increase in less than a year, as the spike in global energy rates following the West Asia crisis weighed on the world's third largest energy consumer. Non-subsidised LPG -- the one that common households use in kitchens -- will now cost Rs 913 per 14.2 kg cylinder in Delhi as against Rs 853 previously, according to the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) website. The protesters said the continued rise in the prices of essential commodities, particularly cooking gas, has added to the financial burden on ordinary households. Addressing the protesters, Karra termed the LPG price hike "cruel". Many rural households still do not have access to piped gas supply and rely entirely on LPG cylinders. This will force them to plan their monthly budgets more carefully, he said. He demanded an immediate rollback of the price hike. The Congress leader described the Indo-US trade deal as a "major blow" to the country's economic interests. Instead of safeguarding the nation's economic and strategic priorities, the Centre "bowed to pressure" from the United States, he charged. He also expressed concern over the possible implications of the trade deal on India's agriculture and dairy sectors, and claimed that orchardists and dairy farmers in Jammu and Kashmir will be severely affected if safeguards are not put in place. "Our apple growers, walnut producers and small dairy farmers could face serious challenges if cheap imports enter the market without minimum support guarantees," Karra said. He demanded that the government present a white paper on the trade deal in Parliament. PCC working president Bhalla also strongly condemned the "unprecedented" hike in LPG prices and said poor and middle-class families will be badly affected by this decision of the Union government. He called for an LPG relief package for families belonging to the BPL (below poverty line) category, along with a special subsidy buffer for Jammu and Kashmir, citing the higher transportation and logistics costs in hilly regions. (PTI)
Srinagar, Jan 15: After the Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (BOSE) declared the result of the class 10th and 12th annual (regular) examinations, the whole focus shifted to the achievers, particularly the toppers. Amidst the appreciation and celebrations for the successful candidates, a stark reality has emerged in society that none of the stakeholders talk about those students who could not pass the examination. This emerging trend has become dangerous for the young students particularly the average performers or those who do not pass the exam in their first attempt. Amid this, a government school teacher has put forth a clear message for the parents of those children who could not qualify the JKBOSE exams. Aasima Jan, a government school teacher from Baramulla district said that expectations of the parents should not make the students victim of depression. She believes that the parents must stand by their children who could not qualify the JKBOSE exams or qualified it with average grades. After the announcement of the results, some students qualified the exams with good marks in class 10th and 12th exams while qualified with average grades while some could not qualify the exams. "Those parents whose children either took less marks or could not qualify for the exam, must be a little upset with their children. As a parent, it is natural to feel disappointed when your child does not come up to your expectations," Aasima Jan said. She however said that the high expectations of parents should not make the child a victim of depression. "Class 10th exam is just a first step in the educational journey of these children. This is not the end of life. Life will provide more opportunities, with more chances and more ways to excel," Aasima Jan said. She said the parents must support their child at this time deal with this setback. "If parents support their child at this time, their kids will bounce back more stronger in future. Parents must tell their children that failures are not opposite to success but are actually part of success," she said. She said there were many people who did not qualify normal exams but proved their worth in life after facing setbacks. "Parents must put in their efforts. Embrace their child, support them instead of letting them down," she said. As the JKBOSE declared the result of class 10th and 12th class examination, the stakeholders and society at large pour praise and attention on the top performers while there was a deafening silence surrounding those who do not pass the examination. The move raised a serious concern, particularly about the way children are being brought up. It raised big question that: âAre we preparing our students to be strong enough to cope with the failure?â
Kupwara, Mar 28: The Indian Army Saturday organized a free medical-cum-veterinary camp at Wader Rajwar in Handwara Sub District, benefiting a large number of local residents and livestock owners. A team of doctors from GMC Handwara, along with medical team from the Indian Army and veterinary specialists, participated in the camp. During the programme, more than 350 medical patients were examined and provided with free medical consultation and medicines. In addition, veterinary doctors conducted health check-ups of dozens of animals, offering treatment and distributing medicines free of cost to livestock owners. The initiative was widely appreciated by locals, who expressed gratitude to the Indian Army and the medical teams for bringing essential healthcare services to the remote area.
Srinagar, Mar 26: Counter Intelligence Kashmir (CIK) on Thursday conducted raids at multiple locations across Kashmir as part of an ongoing investigation into a transnational terror module, officials said. An official said that searches are being carried out at 10 locations across three districts, including six in Ganderbal, three in Shopian and one in Srinagar. He said the investigation pertains to a terror module being directed by Shabir Ahmad Lone, a Kashmir-native Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operative currently based in Bangladesh. Lone, a resident of Kangan area in Ganderbal district, is operating from outside the country, they said. âThe case has links to a transnational network, with the module receiving directions from LeT handlers based in Bangladesh and Pakistan,â the official said. The searches are being conducted on the basis of search warrants issued by a competent court in connection with a fresh terror investigation case recently registered at Police Station CIK, he said. Further details are awaited. (KNO).
Srinagar, Mar 23: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) is devising a mechanism to shift the regular classes to online and hybrid mode amid a growing Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) crisis. Top officials of SKUAST-K said that main and satellite campuses have started facing LPG crisis. âKeeping in view the issue, we have directed the deans of the university to gear for online classes or hybrid mode of education," he said. The official said the instruction for online and hybrid modes of education is a precautionary measure, if the situation deteriorates and demands shift to online education, we must be ready for that to avoid the academic losses. âWe are preparing a Learning Management System (LMS) for the online and hybrid mode of education because more than 65-70 percent of the students in different campuses of SKUAST-K are either residing in university hostels or in Paying Guests (PGs),â the official said. The official further said that for the first time, the university has introduced online registration for the spring semester session. âEarlier, the students were supposed to apply for the semester registration in the offline mode, however due to the LPG crisis we have started online registration so that the students who are currently not in the campuses can apply for the registration online," he said. âIf situation demands online education, it requires an online portal, we will are working on it,â the official added. About the commencement of regular classes for the spring semester session the official said that the classes should normally start by next week. âLetâs see what the situation demands. As of now the LPG crisis are growing," he said. He added that SKUAST-K has an enrollment of over 6,000 students in different campuses of the university in Kashmir. "At least 25 percent students are from outside Kashmir region and more than 1000 students are outside J&K," he said. He said the varsity has 30 hostels in different campuses of Kashmir region and on an average at least one hundred students are residing in each hostel. "Moreover many students are residing in PGs,â the official said.
Srinagar, Mar 23: Awami Itihaad Party on Monday welcomed the significant and timely observations made by Supreme Court Judge Justice Ujjal Bhuyan on the misuse of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), calling it a âpowerful reaffirmation of constitutional values and democratic conscience.â In a statement issued here, AIP Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi said that Justice Bhuyanâs remarks that âmindless arrests under UAPA with negligible conviction rates cannot be a model for Viksit Bharatâ have given voice to a concern long felt across many sections of society, particularly in regions like Jammu and Kashmir. Inam said the data cited by the Judge, showing a conviction rate of around five percent under UAPA with over 95 percent acquittals, raises serious questions about the manner in which the law has been invoked. âWhen such a vast majority of cases do not lead to conviction, it naturally points towards overuse, if not misuse, of the law. The human cost of such actions, especially prolonged incarceration without timely trial, cannot be ignored,â he added. Inam Un Nabi further appreciated Justice Bhuyanâs emphasis on protecting the space for debate and dissent, stating that democracy thrives not on silence but on dialogue. âThe observation that dissent should not be criminalised and that diverse views must be respected is a reminder of the very spirit of our Constitution,â he said. Highlighting the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, the AIP spokesperson said that many individuals continue to remain behind bars for years, often far away from their families, with cases moving slowly through the judicial system. "The Judgeâs remarks reinforce the need to relook at such cases with a humane and constitutional approach,â he said. Inam Un Nabi also lauded the broader vision articulated by Justice Bhuyan, where development is not merely economic but also rooted in justice, equality and dignity. âA truly developed India must ensure that laws are not perceived as instruments of fear but as protectors of rights,â he said. He expressed hope that these observations would initiate a wider national introspection and lead to corrective measures where required. âStrength of a nation lies in its ability to course-correct. When voices from within the judiciary call for balance, fairness and restraint, it is an opportunity to reinforce trust in institutions,â he added. He reiterated AIPâs consistent stand and said that peace, stability and development can only be sustained through justice, dialogue and respect for democratic freedoms.
Srinagar, Jan 8: Contractual faculty members working in government degree colleges of Jammu and Kashmir Higher Education Department (HED) have expressed strong resentment over what they term as a glaring disparity in salaries, demanding revision of their pay in line with University Grants Commission (UGC) norms and regularisation of their services. The faculty, many of whom hold PhDs and are qualified through NET, SET and JRF, said they have been denied UGC-recommended pay scales despite discharging academic responsibilities equivalent to their regular counterparts. âHundreds of highly qualified scholars have been pushed into silent suffering. For years, we have been assured that our pay revision is under consideration, but nothing has materialised so far,â said Dr Ishfaq Gowhar, a contractual faculty member. Earlier, Director Colleges J&K had acknowledged the legitimacy of the facultyâs demand, stating that while the issue was genuine, its implementation involved significant financial implications due to the large number of contractual appointments. âWe are aware that they deserve salary enhancement, but the number of contractual faculty is huge and it has financial implications,â he earlier said. Dr Gowhar pointed out that contractual lecturers, who form the backbone of the higher education system, continue to work on a fixed monthly honorarium of Rs 28,000, which has remained unchanged for nearly a decade. âThe irony is that a Class IV employee with a Class 10 qualification draws a salary exceeding Rs 50,000, while doctorate-holding teachers engaged in teaching, mentoring and academic research are paid a fraction of that,â he said. He added that institutions such as SKUAST-K, University of Kashmir and Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) have implemented revised UGC pay scales, but the Higher Education Department has failed to extend similar treatment to its contractual faculty. Dr Gowhar said the demand for âequal work, equal payâ gets prominently featured in election campaigns, raising hopes among contractual teachers. âPromises were made and slogans echoed during elections, but once the process ended, our voices were reduced to silence. Even meeting officials now feels impossible,â he said. He said contractual faculty were not seeking privileges but dignity, fairness and recognition for their service. The faculty appealed to the Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and the Education Minister to intervene and take concrete steps towards addressing their long-pending demands. âThis issue is not merely about salaries. It is about survival, justice and dignity in the classrooms of Jammu and Kashmir,â he said.
