Srinagar, May 31: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Society Forum (JKCSF) and Pensioners United Front (PUF) has extended their support to the teaching fraternity in view of the recent Supreme Court judgement regarding Teachers Eligibility Test (TET). In a statement issued here, Chairman JKCSF and president FUF Abdul Qayoom wani expressed solidarity with thousands of teachers across Jammu & Kashmir who are facing uncertainty and anxiety over the ongoing TET issue. Wani said there can be no two opinions that quality education was the fundamental right of every child and the foundation of a progressive society. "JKCSF has always supported every initiative aimed at improving educational standards, strengthening institutions, and ensuring better learning outcomes for students," he said. Wani said the welfare of students and the quality of education must remain our collective priority. He however said the pursuit of quality education cannot come at the cost of fairness, justice, and the dignity of teachers "who have already devoted decades of their lives to the service of the Education Department." He said these teachers were recruited under the rules and policies that were in force at the time of their appointment and have been discharging their duties with sincerity, dedication, and commitment ever since. "For years and, in many cases, decades, these educators have served in difficult circumstances, often in remote and challenging areas, contributing their blood and sweat to the cause of education," Wani said. He said their commitment is reflected in the academic achievements of countless students who today occupy distinguished positions in society, administration, academia, business, and other professions. "Their contribution to nation-building cannot be overlooked or diminished," he added. Wani added that if the objective was to further improve the quality of education, there are numerous constructive and progressive measures available to execute the initiative on the ground. "Regular training programmes, orientation courses, capacity-building workshops, refresher courses, seminars, and exposure to modern teaching methodologies can be organised to equip teachers with evolving educational requirements and contemporary pedagogical practices," Qayoom Wani said. He said continuous professional development was a globally accepted approach to enhancing educational standards. "What raises concern is the proposition of imposing new eligibility conditions upon employees who were lawfully appointed years ago and have been serving continuously under existing service conditions," Wani said. He said that altering the rules of employment after individuals have entered service and spent decades discharging their responsibilities raises serious questions of fairness and legal propriety. "The principles laid down by the Supreme Court in numerous judgments have consistently emphasised that the rules of the game cannot ordinarily be changed after the game has begun," he added. Wani said teachers who have faithfully served the department for decades cannot now be compelled to repeatedly prove their worth or sit for examinations merely to secure their livelihood and continue in service. "Such measures risk creating fear, uncertainty, and insecurity among a community that has dedicated its life to educating future generations," he added Wani said JKCSF firmly believes that J&K government understands the concerns of the teaching fraternity and appreciates the invaluable services rendered by them over the years. "We are confident that the government will stand by its teachers and explore every available legal and administrative avenue to protect their legitimate rights and interests," he said. "We urge the J&K government to present the concerns of the teaching community with full strength before the Supreme Court and to pursue all lawful measures necessary to ensure that justice is done," he added. He said the teaching fraternity deserves support, protection, and a fair resolution of the issue rather than uncertainty regarding their future. JKCSF chairman reiterated that supporting teachers and ensuring quality education are not contradictory objectives. 'Both can and must go hand in hand. A just and balanced approach that safeguards the rights of experienced teachers while simultaneously strengthening educational standards is the need of the hour," he said. Wani said the teaching community has served society with dedication and distinction. "Their experience, commitment, and contribution deserve recognition, respect, and protection," Wani added.
Banihal, May 31: The Banihal Premier League (BPL) season 11 was inaugurated at the Banihal Sports Stadium on Sunday by the ruling party MLA Sajjad Shaheen. The event is being organised In an effort to encourage youth participation in sports and keep them away from drug abuse. The knockout-format cricket tournament features 64 teams from across Jammu and Kashmir, making it one of the largest sporting events in the region. Speaking on the occasion, MLA Sajjad Shaheen appreciated the efforts of BPL organiser Danish Farooq Mir and his team for successfully conducting the tournament. He said that cricket is the most popular sport among the youth and provides a valuable platform for talented players to showcase their abilities. The MLA said he was committed to development of Banihal Sports Stadium into a modern sporting facility. He announced funds worth âč1.5 crore for the installation of floodlights, water facilities, pavilion infrastructure, and spectator seating arrangements at the stadium. The opening match of the tournament was played between Kashmir XI and Jammu XI which attracted hundreds of spectators to the venue. Batting first, Kashmir XI posted a massive total of 273 runs for the loss of six wickets in the allotted 18 overs. Ishtiyaq Illahi Robby starred with the bat, scoring a brilliant 105 runs off just 47 balls. When the report was being filed, Jammu XI had scored 45 runs for the loss of three wickets in four overs while chasing the target.
Baramulla, May 31: The first blast for the 240 MW Uri-I Stage-II Hydro Electric Project was successfully carried out on Sunday, marking the beginning of major construction works and a significant milestone for Jammu and Kashmir's power sector. The project, being developed by NHPC Limited in Baramulla district, is estimated to cost âč2,708.95 crore. The run-of-river scheme will utilize the tail water of the existing Uri-I Hydro Electric Project and is expected to generate around 932.60 million units of clean energy annually. The project will have an installed capacity of 240 MW through two units of 120 MW each and will feature an underground powerhouse on the left bank of the Jhelum River. Officials said the project is expected to strengthen energy security in the region, boost clean power generation, and create substantial employment opportunities during the construction phase. The successful first blast signals the beginning of heavy civil works for the ambitious hydropower project. The Uri-I Stage-II project, being developed by NHPC on the Jhelum River in Baramulla district, is an extension of the existing Uri-I Hydroelectric Project.
Srinagar, May 31: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi on Sunday lashed out at Mehbooba Mufti saying that teachers in Jammu and Kashmir do not need "seasonal sympathy tweets" but deserve consistency, dignity and honesty in public life. He was referring to tweet of former JK chief minister and People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti wherein she accused the National Conference government of its silence over Teachers Eligibility Test (TET). In a tweet, Mehbooba Mufti said thousands of teachers in J&K were face uncertainty, anguish, and the looming threat of termination. "While other states are fighting to protect their teachers by filing review petitions before the Supreme Court on the TET issue our government chose silence despite earlier assurances of support.Teachers deserve advocacy and protection, not indifference at a moment that could determine their livelihood and future," she wrote on X. Reacting to her tweet, Inam Nabi lashed out at Mufti saying that one cannot ignite fear in power and preach compassion in opposition. "Kashmir remembers both the statements and the signatures," he said. He said that Mehbooba Mufti today speaks about âadvocacyâ and âprotectionâ for teachers as if people have forgotten her own tenure. "The same Mehbooba Mufti, while heading the government, ordered screening tests for nearly 65,000 ReT teachers and questioned their competence, qualifications and credibility," he said. He said today Mufti sheds tears for teachers facing uncertainty, but when she was in power, it was her own government that pushed thousands of teachers into anxiety, humiliation and fear. "What changed now? Opposition benches? Political convenience? Or selective memory? It is astonishing to see those who once treated teachers with suspicion now presenting themselves as their protectors," Inam U Nabi said. "Even Omar Abdullah had then questioned PDPâs move and asked whether the government had similarly screened its own political appointees before rewarding them with positions," he added. Inam Un Nabi, however, urged J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to rise above political differences and protect the teachers of Jammu and Kashmir by immediately filing a review petition before the Supreme Court on the TET issue. âTeachers are the backbone of society. Their livelihoods and dignity cannot be subjected to political silence or administrative indifference. The government must stand with them legally and morally at this critical juncture,â he added.
Srinagar, May 31: Jammu and Kashmir Civil Society Forum (JKCSF) and Pensioners United Front (PUF) has extended their support to the teaching fraternity in view of the recent Supreme Court judgement regarding Teachers Eligibility Test (TET). In a statement issued here, Chairman JKCSF and president FUF Abdul Qayoom wani expressed solidarity with thousands of teachers across Jammu & Kashmir who are facing uncertainty and anxiety over the ongoing TET issue. Wani said there can be no two opinions that quality education was the fundamental right of every child and the foundation of a progressive society. "JKCSF has always supported every initiative aimed at improving educational standards, strengthening institutions, and ensuring better learning outcomes for students," he said. Wani said the welfare of students and the quality of education must remain our collective priority. He however said the pursuit of quality education cannot come at the cost of fairness, justice, and the dignity of teachers "who have already devoted decades of their lives to the service of the Education Department." He said these teachers were recruited under the rules and policies that were in force at the time of their appointment and have been discharging their duties with sincerity, dedication, and commitment ever since. "For years and, in many cases, decades, these educators have served in difficult circumstances, often in remote and challenging areas, contributing their blood and sweat to the cause of education," Wani said. He said their commitment is reflected in the academic achievements of countless students who today occupy distinguished positions in society, administration, academia, business, and other professions. "Their contribution to nation-building cannot be overlooked or diminished," he added. Wani added that if the objective was to further improve the quality of education, there are numerous constructive and progressive measures available to execute the initiative on the ground. "Regular training programmes, orientation courses, capacity-building workshops, refresher courses, seminars, and exposure to modern teaching methodologies can be organised to equip teachers with evolving educational requirements and contemporary pedagogical practices," Qayoom Wani said. He said continuous professional development was a globally accepted approach to enhancing educational standards. "What raises concern is the proposition of imposing new eligibility conditions upon employees who were lawfully appointed years ago and have been serving continuously under existing service conditions," Wani said. He said that altering the rules of employment after individuals have entered service and spent decades discharging their responsibilities raises serious questions of fairness and legal propriety. "The principles laid down by the Supreme Court in numerous judgments have consistently emphasised that the rules of the game cannot ordinarily be changed after the game has begun," he added. Wani said teachers who have faithfully served the department for decades cannot now be compelled to repeatedly prove their worth or sit for examinations merely to secure their livelihood and continue in service. "Such measures risk creating fear, uncertainty, and insecurity among a community that has dedicated its life to educating future generations," he added Wani said JKCSF firmly believes that J&K government understands the concerns of the teaching fraternity and appreciates the invaluable services rendered by them over the years. "We are confident that the government will stand by its teachers and explore every available legal and administrative avenue to protect their legitimate rights and interests," he said. "We urge the J&K government to present the concerns of the teaching community with full strength before the Supreme Court and to pursue all lawful measures necessary to ensure that justice is done," he added. He said the teaching fraternity deserves support, protection, and a fair resolution of the issue rather than uncertainty regarding their future. JKCSF chairman reiterated that supporting teachers and ensuring quality education are not contradictory objectives. 'Both can and must go hand in hand. A just and balanced approach that safeguards the rights of experienced teachers while simultaneously strengthening educational standards is the need of the hour," he said. Wani said the teaching community has served society with dedication and distinction. "Their experience, commitment, and contribution deserve recognition, respect, and protection," Wani added.
Srinagar, May 31: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi on Sunday lashed out at Mehbooba Mufti saying that teachers in Jammu and Kashmir do not need "seasonal sympathy tweets" but deserve consistency, dignity and honesty in public life. He was referring to tweet of former JK chief minister and People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti wherein she accused the National Conference government of its silence over Teachers Eligibility Test (TET). In a tweet, Mehbooba Mufti said thousands of teachers in J&K were face uncertainty, anguish, and the looming threat of termination. "While other states are fighting to protect their teachers by filing review petitions before the Supreme Court on the TET issue our government chose silence despite earlier assurances of support.Teachers deserve advocacy and protection, not indifference at a moment that could determine their livelihood and future," she wrote on X. Reacting to her tweet, Inam Nabi lashed out at Mufti saying that one cannot ignite fear in power and preach compassion in opposition. "Kashmir remembers both the statements and the signatures," he said. He said that Mehbooba Mufti today speaks about âadvocacyâ and âprotectionâ for teachers as if people have forgotten her own tenure. "The same Mehbooba Mufti, while heading the government, ordered screening tests for nearly 65,000 ReT teachers and questioned their competence, qualifications and credibility," he said. He said today Mufti sheds tears for teachers facing uncertainty, but when she was in power, it was her own government that pushed thousands of teachers into anxiety, humiliation and fear. "What changed now? Opposition benches? Political convenience? Or selective memory? It is astonishing to see those who once treated teachers with suspicion now presenting themselves as their protectors," Inam U Nabi said. "Even Omar Abdullah had then questioned PDPâs move and asked whether the government had similarly screened its own political appointees before rewarding them with positions," he added. Inam Un Nabi, however, urged J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to rise above political differences and protect the teachers of Jammu and Kashmir by immediately filing a review petition before the Supreme Court on the TET issue. âTeachers are the backbone of society. Their livelihoods and dignity cannot be subjected to political silence or administrative indifference. The government must stand with them legally and morally at this critical juncture,â he added.
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
Baramulla, May 31: Security forces detained a Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) resident and a woman from Uri near the Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmir's Baramulla district, officials said on Sunday. As per the reports , a PoK national identified as Zeeshan Ahmad Mir, son of Lal Din Mir and a resident of Muzaffarabad , was apprehended by Army's 12 Grenadiers unit at Silikote in Uri. He was detained along with Iram Bano, daughter of Abdul Majeed Mir and a resident of Tilawari in Uri. Reports said the duo may have been involved in a love affair. "Both are currently in the custody of the Army and are being questioned to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the cross-border movement," the official said. In a separate incident in the same sector, security forces also apprehended a former Territorial Army personnel while he was allegedly attempting to cross the LoC. Officials said investigations are underway in both cases, and further details are awaited. A senior police official said that the investigations have started into the matter and details will be shared accordingly.
Srinagar, May 31: Senior photojournalist, Aabid Nabi of Daily Excelsior has been awarded the prestigious Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Commendation Card in recognition of his contribution to journalism and media coverage in the Kashmir Valley. The commendation was presented by General Anil Chauhan during a ceremony held in New Delhi. Abid Nabi, a seasoned photojournalist, was honoured for his professional work documenting key events and developments across Kashmir over the years. Known for his extensive field coverage, he has earned recognition for responsible and balanced reporting through his photographic work. The award has been welcomed by members of the media fraternity in Jammu and Kashmir, who described the honour as a significant recognition of the role of journalism in informing the public and documenting developments in the region. The CDS Commendation Card is awarded to individuals for distinguished service and notable contributions in their respective fields. The recognition marks a major milestone in Nabi's journalistic career.
Srinagar, May 30: J&K Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone on Saturday paid warm and heartfelt tributes to former MLA and veteran political leader Mohammad Sultan Pandithpuri on the solemn occasion of his first death anniversary. In a deeply felt tribute, Lone remembered Mohammad Sultan Panditpuri as a leader of rare vision and quiet dedication who devoted his life not to the pursuit of power but to the genuine welfare and empowerment of the people of Langate and Kupwara. "Sultan Sahib was a farsighted leader who understood that the true strength of a society lies in nurturing capable leadership," Lone said, reflecting on a legacy that continues to resonate across the region. The PC President emphasised that the veteran leader's contribution to public life transcended electoral politics as he was among those uncommon leaders who consistently encouraged young minds to enter public life. "He consistently encouraged young minds to participate in public life and worked tirelessly to build a strong, responsible, and people-centric leadership in Kupwara," he remarked. Lone added that the departed leader worked tirelessly to build a strong, responsible and people centric political culture in the region rooted in integrity, community and commitment to the common good. "His vision extended beyond elections," Lone observed. "He believed in creating institutions, empowering communities and preparing future generations to lead with honesty and purpose. That is a standard few meet and fewer sustain." Lone concluded his tribute with profound reverence, noting that Sultan Sahib's wisdom, dedication and service oriented politics remain a living source of inspiration. "His legacy endures in the countless lives he touched and the values he stood for until his last breath," he added.
Srinagar, May 29: Several Members of Parliament on Friday visited Mawar Langate in north Kashmirâs Kupwara district, the residence of Member of Parliament Baramulla, Engineer Rashid to offer condolences and express solidarity with the bereaved family during this difficult time. The parliamentary delegation included MPs Umesh Bahubhai Patel and Sudhakar Singh along with other political leaders from different states. The visiting MPs interacted with family members, party leaders and scores of people gathered at the residence. Talking to reporters, the visiting MPs said that there is no dearth of voices across the country who genuinely feel the pain and sufferings of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. They maintained that democratic engagement and sincere dialogue are essential for lasting peace and reconciliation in the region. Leading the delegation, MP Sudhakar Singh from Bihar said that there is no doubt that the people of Kashmir have suffered immensely and their voices must be heard with sincerity, dignity and seriousness. He appreciated the consistent concern shown by Engineer Rashid in Parliament regarding the political and human rights issues of Jammu & Kashmir. He further stated that the Modi Government, by not engaging meaningfully with the people of Jammu & Kashmir, is further deepening the sense of alienation. He added that the continued incarceration of Engineer Rashid is weakening the bridge between New Delhi and Kashmir and demanded his immediate release so that he can continue to serve the people who have overwhelmingly reposed faith in him. The visiting MPs also interacted with people from different walks of life and assured them that the people of India are not enemies of Kashmiris. They said that all those commitments and agreements which form the basis of the relationship between New Delhi and the people of Jammu & Kashmir must be respected and honoured in letter and spirit. The delegation reiterated the need for dialogue, reconciliation and democratic engagement to address the aspirations and grievances of the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
New Delhi, May 12: A massive protest organised by the National Students' Union of India (NSUI) broke out near the Shastri Bhawan on Tuesday, against the alleged paper leak in NEET-UG this year. The exam was held on May 3, following which allegations of paper leak surfaced, triggering investigations by the Rajasthan Special Operations Group (SOG) and central agencies. Earlier, the National Testing Agency (NTA) announced the cancellation of NEET-UG 2026, and said the examination will be re-conducted on dates to be notified separately. In a statement, the NTA said the decision was taken with the approval of the Government of India in the interest of maintaining transparency and preserving trust in the national examination system.
