Sopore, Apr 27: Tongasâold horse-carts from Sopore's pastâtook centre stage in a rally against drugs on Monday. The district administration used these fading icons to spread the anti-drug message to everyone, especially youth. Authorities launched a striking awareness drive, parading Tangas emblazoned with anti-drug slogans through Sopore's streets. The event, flagged off from River Edge and winding near Fruit Mandi, drew crowds, civil society and police. Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Sopore, Shabir Ahmad Raina, who led the initiative, said the objective is to disseminate the message about the ill-effects of drugs to as many people as possible, especially the youth. "The Tanga isn't just transportâit's our history. We're using it to reach every corner with the message," Raina told KNO. Similarly, SSP Iftkhar Talib described the effort as evolving into a "public movement". "All sections of society are joining hands. We're building a mass movement against this serious threat," Talib told reporters, while calling for collective action to rehabilitate addicts and shield vulnerable youth, framing it as "sustained grassroots mobilisation". Tehsildar Sopore Sheikh Tariq reinforced the resolve, saying the fight against drug peddlers will continue until the menace is eradicated from ground zero. Everyone must support the administration for a happy, prosperous Kashmir, he said. Historically, Tongas were Sopore's lifeline â elegant, two-wheeled horse-carts ferrying merchants, families and produce along the town's fruit-laden orchards and markets since the Dogra era. As roads widened and autos proliferated, they faded into memory. Earlier, the Chemists and Druggists Association held an anti-drug rally. The participants marched through busy Iqbal Market with signs and slogans against narcotics. The Association president Showkat Mohiddin Lone said they always back such causes. "This is the need of the hour," he said. (KNO)
Srinagar, Apr 27:Â Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Monday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi dealt a decisive blow to terrorism by taking bold steps like abrogation of Article 370, surgical strikes and Operation Sindoor. Addressing an election rally in West Bengal, Shah said that PM Modi crushed terrorism which no previous leader or regime could. "Operation Sindoor after the Pahalgam terror attack sent a clear message to the adversary that terrorism wonât be tolerated. The government had acted firmly against terrorism and crushed it with an iron fist," he said. He also attacked West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, accusing her government of being soft on terrorism. âThe PM Modi led regime has taken decisive action against terror, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir,â he said. Shah cited the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, stating that the move had strengthened the countryâs fight against terrorism and integrated Jammu and Kashmir more closely with the Union. The Union Home Minister said the Centreâs approach marked a shift from previous governments, asserting that strong measures had been taken to counter terror threats. âModi Ji ended Article 370, which was protected by the Congress and its ally TMC. Modi Ji dealt a decisive blow to terrorism through a surgical strike, airstrike, and Operation Sindoor. But the TMC and the Congress fed biryani to terrorists when they were in power,â Shah said. He also hit out at Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge over remarks against PM Modi. âPM Modi who ended terrorism, Congressâs president calls him a terrorist. Due to his proximity to Rahul Gandhi, the public conduct of Kharge Ji has deteriorated. Form a BJP government in West Bengal, and we will end terrorism here too,â he said. âKharge Ji, the more you abuse Modi Ji, the more the lotus will bloom,â Shah added. The Home Minister said there is a strong wave in favour of the BJP and once voted to power, it would âpush back all infiltratorsâ. (KNO)
Experts deliver lectures on LEDs, solar cells Srinagar, April 27: In a significant initiative to promote scientific temperament and innovation among young learners, the Indian National Young Academy of Science, in collaboration with National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar Monday organized a Science Outreach Programme on âMaterials Science and Technology for Societyâ at Government Boys Higher Secondary School, Soura. The programme, held under INYASâs nationwide outreach initiative, aimed at encouraging creative thinking and fostering curiosity among school students. Over 100 students and faculty members participated in the event. Dr. Vijay Kumar, Member INYAS and Assistant Professor, Department of Physics, NIT Srinagar, delivered an engaging lecture titled âHow Materials Glow: The Science Behind LEDs and Light,â explaining fundamental concepts of material science in an accessible manner. Another session was conducted by Dr. Mohd Zubair Ansari, who spoke on recent advancements in solar cell research and emerging trends in material science, highlighting the role of innovation in sustainable technologies. The programme was coordinated by Dr. Vijay Kumar and Dr. Mohd Zubair Ansari, while local arrangements were managed by senior lecturer Mohammad Ibbrahim of BHSS Soura. On the occasion, Dr. Vijay Kumar said that outreach programs are essential for inspiring students to pursue careers in science and technology. He noted that INYAS remains committed to reaching out to students, particularly in remote areas, to nurture scientific curiosity and innovation. Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, in his message, said that initiatives like these play a crucial role in bridging the gap between higher education institutions and school-level learning. He stressed that early exposure to scientific research and practical knowledge helps in shaping future innovators and problem-solvers. Registrar NIT Srinagar, Dr. Atikur Rehman, also lauded the programme, stating that such outreach activities strengthen the foundation of scientific education at the grassroots level. He added that NIT Srinagar will continue to support and collaborate on programmes that promote academic excellence and innovation among youth.
Srinagar, Apr 27: The district administration Budgam has ordered the transfer and posting of Naib Tehsildars. As per the order issued by Deputy Commissioner Budgam, the transfers and postings have been ordered with immediate effect, in the interest of administration and smooth functioning of official work. As per the order, Zubair Ahmad Wani, Naib Tehsildar (PA Tech) has been transferred and posted as Naib Tehsildar Khag with additional charge of Nayabat Poshkar. Mohammad Mirza Naib Tehsildar Khag has been transferred and posted as Naib Tehsildar Kachwari. Mohammad Yaseen Khattana Naib Tehsildar Kachwari has been transferred and posted as Naib Tehsildar Defence DC office Budgam. As per the order, Janbaz Shakeel Ur Rehman Tak Naib Tehsildar Defence has been transferred and posted as Naib Tehsildar Beerwah while Abdul Qayoom Ahanger Naib Tehsildar Beerwah has been transferred and posted as Assistant Revenue Attorney DC Office, Budgam. "All the above officials shall be deemed to have been relieved," the order reads.
Sopore, Apr 27: Tongasâold horse-carts from Sopore's pastâtook centre stage in a rally against drugs on Monday. The district administration used these fading icons to spread the anti-drug message to everyone, especially youth. Authorities launched a striking awareness drive, parading Tangas emblazoned with anti-drug slogans through Sopore's streets. The event, flagged off from River Edge and winding near Fruit Mandi, drew crowds, civil society and police. Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Sopore, Shabir Ahmad Raina, who led the initiative, said the objective is to disseminate the message about the ill-effects of drugs to as many people as possible, especially the youth. "The Tanga isn't just transportâit's our history. We're using it to reach every corner with the message," Raina told KNO. Similarly, SSP Iftkhar Talib described the effort as evolving into a "public movement". "All sections of society are joining hands. We're building a mass movement against this serious threat," Talib told reporters, while calling for collective action to rehabilitate addicts and shield vulnerable youth, framing it as "sustained grassroots mobilisation". Tehsildar Sopore Sheikh Tariq reinforced the resolve, saying the fight against drug peddlers will continue until the menace is eradicated from ground zero. Everyone must support the administration for a happy, prosperous Kashmir, he said. Historically, Tongas were Sopore's lifeline â elegant, two-wheeled horse-carts ferrying merchants, families and produce along the town's fruit-laden orchards and markets since the Dogra era. As roads widened and autos proliferated, they faded into memory. Earlier, the Chemists and Druggists Association held an anti-drug rally. The participants marched through busy Iqbal Market with signs and slogans against narcotics. The Association president Showkat Mohiddin Lone said they always back such causes. "This is the need of the hour," he said. (KNO)
Srinagar, Apr 21: Jammu and Kashmir Police has booked a professor of University of Kashmir, a Srinagar resident, for alleged rape, cheating and criminal intimidation, with the complainant accusing him of prolonged exploitation under the pretext of marriage. A senior police officer told news agency JKNS that the accused has been arrested, after an FIR was registered against him on the basis of the victimâs complaint. Police have registered the case under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and initiated an investigation to probe all allegations and establish the full extent of the offence. Meanwhile, University of Kashmir in an official notification issued by the administration, teaching section, a copy of which lies with JKNS reads, "Whereas, Sajad Mohammed Khan, Scientist-C, Department of Computer Science, has been arrested in connection with the FIR No 11 of 2026 lodged at Women's Police station Rambagh." "Now, therefore, in terms of Rule 31 of the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1956, and in view of his detention in custody, Mr Sajad Mohammed Khan, Scientist-C, Department of Computer Science, is hereby placed under suspension with immediate effect," it reads.
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
Sopore, Apr 27: Tongasâold horse-carts from Sopore's pastâtook centre stage in a rally against drugs on Monday. The district administration used these fading icons to spread the anti-drug message to everyone, especially youth. Authorities launched a striking awareness drive, parading Tangas emblazoned with anti-drug slogans through Sopore's streets. The event, flagged off from River Edge and winding near Fruit Mandi, drew crowds, civil society and police. Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Sopore, Shabir Ahmad Raina, who led the initiative, said the objective is to disseminate the message about the ill-effects of drugs to as many people as possible, especially the youth. "The Tanga isn't just transportâit's our history. We're using it to reach every corner with the message," Raina told KNO. Similarly, SSP Iftkhar Talib described the effort as evolving into a "public movement". "All sections of society are joining hands. We're building a mass movement against this serious threat," Talib told reporters, while calling for collective action to rehabilitate addicts and shield vulnerable youth, framing it as "sustained grassroots mobilisation". Tehsildar Sopore Sheikh Tariq reinforced the resolve, saying the fight against drug peddlers will continue until the menace is eradicated from ground zero. Everyone must support the administration for a happy, prosperous Kashmir, he said. Historically, Tongas were Sopore's lifeline â elegant, two-wheeled horse-carts ferrying merchants, families and produce along the town's fruit-laden orchards and markets since the Dogra era. As roads widened and autos proliferated, they faded into memory. Earlier, the Chemists and Druggists Association held an anti-drug rally. The participants marched through busy Iqbal Market with signs and slogans against narcotics. The Association president Showkat Mohiddin Lone said they always back such causes. "This is the need of the hour," he said. (KNO)
Srinagar, Apr 27: The district administration Budgam has ordered the transfer and posting of Naib Tehsildars. As per the order issued by Deputy Commissioner Budgam, the transfers and postings have been ordered with immediate effect, in the interest of administration and smooth functioning of official work. As per the order, Zubair Ahmad Wani, Naib Tehsildar (PA Tech) has been transferred and posted as Naib Tehsildar Khag with additional charge of Nayabat Poshkar. Mohammad Mirza Naib Tehsildar Khag has been transferred and posted as Naib Tehsildar Kachwari. Mohammad Yaseen Khattana Naib Tehsildar Kachwari has been transferred and posted as Naib Tehsildar Defence DC office Budgam. As per the order, Janbaz Shakeel Ur Rehman Tak Naib Tehsildar Defence has been transferred and posted as Naib Tehsildar Beerwah while Abdul Qayoom Ahanger Naib Tehsildar Beerwah has been transferred and posted as Assistant Revenue Attorney DC Office, Budgam. "All the above officials shall be deemed to have been relieved," the order reads.
Srinagar, Apr 27: At least three school girls were injured in a road accident in Qazigund area of south Kashmirâs Kulgam district on Monday, officials said. An official said that the accident took place at KulbaghâQazi Mohalla Link Road when an i20 car, driven by one Rayees Ahmad Rather, hit the students while moving towards Qazigund. According to the official, the injured have been identified as Fatima Jan and Tahmeena Jan daughters of Mohammad Altaf Parray of Shampora and Aliya Jan daughter of Mohammad Altaf Zahid of Salyaloo. "Fatima Jan sustained critical injuries, while other two suffered minor injuries. All the injured were shifted to Emergency Hospital Qazigund for treatment," the official said. Police said that acting swiftly, a case (FIR No. 102/2026) under relevant sections of law was registered at Police Station Qazigund and investigation was taken up. The accused driver, who had fled from the spot, was apprehended within an hour, solving the hit-and-run case immediately. (KNO)
Srinagar, Apr 27: Government Degree College (GDC) Qazigund on Monday organised a Policeâcommunity interactive session on drug hotspot mapping and. The event was organised in continuation to awareness activities under Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA). The event organised by the College well-being and substance abuse prevention cell (CWASC) in collaboration with Qazigund Police also focused on role of youth in awareness campaign. All the students of the college attended the programme. Station House Office Qazigund Manav Dhanteiya was the resource person at the event. In his address to the students, he spoke in detail about the NDPS Act, the dangers of peer pressure and the concept of gateway drugs. âDrugs offer only a temporary relief and fatal escape whereas the creative activities are more ecstatic, fruitful and fulfilling," he said. He further said that sports, music, and other constructive engagements are effective deterrents against substance abuse. "We need to grow a strong will to eradicate this menace, and individual efforts do impact the collective endeavours,â he said. A healthy interaction was also held at the occasion in which the students clarified heir queries regarding the theme. In a separate session, SHO also interacted with the students aspiring for the UPSC examination, stressing consistency, self-analysis, understanding the nature of the examination, and the importance of incremental gains. "Your efforts to realise the high goals will keep you motivated and away from bad habits like drug abuse,â he said. In his Presidential address, Principal GDC Qazigund Prof.(Dr.) Sudhir Singh emphasized the need for sustained policeâcommunity collaboration and proactive youth participation to address social challenges, particularly drug abuse. âI want to see our students as active ambassadors of the wellness campaigns,â he added. He thanked the resource person for the insightful interaction and said that more such programmes would be organised, especially for students seeking guidance and counseling for specific careers. A team of faculty members accompanied by Police Cops visited the neighborhood shops to aware them regarding the section 6(b) of the COTPA 2003 protocol which Prohibits selling tobacco products within 100 yards of educational institutions. Prof.Talib Ahmad Ganaie Nodal Officer CWAAC was the organizer of the programme. Earlier the programme commenced with welcome address by Prof. Nehad Kaniz Fatima Nodal Officer CWAAC who spoke about the objectives of NMBA and underlined that awareness programmes act as a preventive tool. Fatima reiterated that prevention is better than cure. The event was attended by the faculty members, including Prof.Aufaq Ahmad Zargar, Dr. Ishtiyaq Ahmad Shah, Prof.Irshad Ahmad Mantoo and Prof. Rameez Ahmad Shah .
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.
