Srinagar, May 22: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Friday expressed serious concern over the lodging of an FIR against Kashmiri Pandit activists protesting the implementation of the National Food Security Act (NFSA) in relation to relief and ration benefits for displaced migrant families. In a statement issued here, Mehbooba Mufti said the concerns being raised by the Kashmiri Pandit community stem from genuine anxieties about their distinct identity and status as displaced migrants, something that has been acknowledged by successive governments over the years. She said that after decades of displacement, uncertainty and trauma, the community deserves empathy and engagement rather than criminalisation for voicing its fears and grievances. Reacting to reports of police action against the protesters, Mehbooba Mufti said the increasing tendency to respond to dissent with FIRs and intimidation is deeply worrying and reflects an unhealthy approach towards democratic expression. She said peaceful protest cannot be treated as a criminal act, especially when communities are raising concerns linked to their survival, rehabilitation and legal safeguards. The PDP president noted that several Kashmiri Pandit organisations have opposed the move to subsume migrant relief rations under the NFSA framework, fearing that it could dilute their distinct migrant status and gradually erode the special relief and rehabilitation mechanisms created for families displaced from the Valley in the 1990s. She said many within the community view the move as an attempt to reduce a humanitarian and displacement-related entitlement into a routine welfare scheme. She said the issue must be addressed through dialogue and confidence-building measures instead of police action and legal intimidation. âThe pain and displacement suffered by Kashmiri Pandits is a reality that cannot be ignored. Any policy decision affecting them must be taken only after meaningful consultation with the community,â she said. Mehbooba Mufti further said that democratic governments must create space for citizens to express concerns peacefully and that using police action against every form of disagreement only widens mistrust and alienation. She urged the administration to withdraw the FIR and initiate a transparent dialogue with representatives of the Kashmiri Pandit community over the NFSA-related concerns.
Expresses solidarity with bereaved family & prays for departed soul; Emphasizes personal bonds over differences in politics Srinagar, May 22: J&K Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone Friday led a senior party delegation to the residence of Baramulla MP Er Rashid and Langate MLA Sheikh Khursheed to offer condolences on the passing of their father, Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh. The delegation, comprising Chief Spokesperson Advocate Bashir Ahmad Dar, Provincial President Kashmir & Former Chairman DDC Kupwara Irfan Panditpuri, District President Kupwara Hafiz Ullah Mir, and District Coordinator Abdul Ahad Kashmiri, expressed heartfelt solidarity with the grieving family and prayed for peace for the departed soul. Addressing the gathering, Sajad Lone emphasized that his visit completely transcended political boundaries and was deeply rooted in decades of profound personal connection. While openly acknowledging their current political differences, Lone underscored the enduring mutual respect between their families. He fondly recalled the 2009 parliamentary elections, noting that although Er Rashid opposed him politically at the time, the late Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh, his wife and Sheikh Khursheed had steadfastly supported and voted for him out of unwavering affection and loyalty to the late Abdul Ghani Lone. Reflecting on their shared history, Lone reminisced about his earliest interactions with Er Rashid over two decades ago, well before Rashid's entry into mainstream politics. Reaffirming the strictly personal nature of his condolence visit, Lone stated unequivocally that he was standing not at the residence of an MP or an MLA, but at the home of Khazir Mohammad Sheikh, a man he warmly remembered for his constant prayers and deep respect. Concluding his address, Lone reiterated that political rivalries belong outside the doors of a grieving household and prayed that Almighty Allah grants the departed soul the highest place in paradise.
Handwara, May 22: Peoples Conference chairman and MLA Handwara, Sajad Gani Lone on Friday accused the Jammu and Kashmir government of being âhand in gloveâ in the demolition drive carried out at Sidra in Jammu. Talking to reporters in Handwara after visiting residence of MP north Kashmir Er Rashid to offer condolences to the family on demise of his father, Sajad Lone alleged that the administration was selectively targeting people while ignoring corruption at higher levels. He launched a scathing attack on the Omar Abdullah-led government, and said he had raised the issue during the recently concluded Assembly session and urged the government to stop the forest department from carrying out demolition drives. He alleged that several ministers in the present government were involved in corruption and questioned the functioning of the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB). âIf a public representative raises allegations of corruption against a minister, it becomes the moral responsibility of the ACB to seek details and investigate the matter,â Lone said. He claimed that anti-corruption agencies were only acting against lower-rung officials while avoiding action against influential politicians. âIt is easy to catch patwaris and low-level officials. I dare the ACB to act against corrupt ministers as well,â he said. Lone also alleged that the Omar Abdullah government was âmissing on the groundâ and claimed that the chief minister was more occupied with public events rather than addressing pressing public issues.
Banihal, May 22: The Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Corporation Limited (JKSPDCL) has floated a tender for preparation of the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed Baglihar Hydro Electric Project Stage-III in Ramban district. According to the tender notice uploaded on the Jammu and Kashmir e-procurement portal, the consultancy tender has been issued under reference number âJKSPDC/BHEP STAGE-III / 01 of 2026 dated 18-05-2026.â The tender pertains to consultancy services for preparation of the DPR and allied technical documents for the upcoming hydroelectric project on the Chenab River. As per the tender details, the bid submission process will begin from May 23, 2026, while the last date for online submission of bids has been fixed as June 27, 2026. Technical bids are scheduled to be opened on June 29, 2026, in Srinagar. The tender document states that the project falls under the consultancy category and will be executed in hybrid mode. An Earnest Money Deposit (EMD) of Rs 10 lakh and a tender fee of Rs 10,000 have also been prescribed for participating firms. The proposed Baglihar Stage-III project is expected to further strengthen hydroelectric power generation capacity in Jammu and Kashmirâs Chenab basin, which already hosts several major hydroelectric projects. The existing Baglihar Hydroelectric Project, located near Chanderkoot in Ramban district, is one of the flagship power projects of JKSPDCL with an installed capacity of around 900 MW. Officials said that the new stage of the project will help enhance energy generation and support the Union Territoryâs long-term power infrastructure development plans.
Srinagar, May 22: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Friday expressed serious concern over the lodging of an FIR against Kashmiri Pandit activists protesting the implementation of the National Food Security Act (NFSA) in relation to relief and ration benefits for displaced migrant families. In a statement issued here, Mehbooba Mufti said the concerns being raised by the Kashmiri Pandit community stem from genuine anxieties about their distinct identity and status as displaced migrants, something that has been acknowledged by successive governments over the years. She said that after decades of displacement, uncertainty and trauma, the community deserves empathy and engagement rather than criminalisation for voicing its fears and grievances. Reacting to reports of police action against the protesters, Mehbooba Mufti said the increasing tendency to respond to dissent with FIRs and intimidation is deeply worrying and reflects an unhealthy approach towards democratic expression. She said peaceful protest cannot be treated as a criminal act, especially when communities are raising concerns linked to their survival, rehabilitation and legal safeguards. The PDP president noted that several Kashmiri Pandit organisations have opposed the move to subsume migrant relief rations under the NFSA framework, fearing that it could dilute their distinct migrant status and gradually erode the special relief and rehabilitation mechanisms created for families displaced from the Valley in the 1990s. She said many within the community view the move as an attempt to reduce a humanitarian and displacement-related entitlement into a routine welfare scheme. She said the issue must be addressed through dialogue and confidence-building measures instead of police action and legal intimidation. âThe pain and displacement suffered by Kashmiri Pandits is a reality that cannot be ignored. Any policy decision affecting them must be taken only after meaningful consultation with the community,â she said. Mehbooba Mufti further said that democratic governments must create space for citizens to express concerns peacefully and that using police action against every form of disagreement only widens mistrust and alienation. She urged the administration to withdraw the FIR and initiate a transparent dialogue with representatives of the Kashmiri Pandit community over the NFSA-related concerns.
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
Srinagar, May 22: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Friday expressed serious concern over the lodging of an FIR against Kashmiri Pandit activists protesting the implementation of the National Food Security Act (NFSA) in relation to relief and ration benefits for displaced migrant families. In a statement issued here, Mehbooba Mufti said the concerns being raised by the Kashmiri Pandit community stem from genuine anxieties about their distinct identity and status as displaced migrants, something that has been acknowledged by successive governments over the years. She said that after decades of displacement, uncertainty and trauma, the community deserves empathy and engagement rather than criminalisation for voicing its fears and grievances. Reacting to reports of police action against the protesters, Mehbooba Mufti said the increasing tendency to respond to dissent with FIRs and intimidation is deeply worrying and reflects an unhealthy approach towards democratic expression. She said peaceful protest cannot be treated as a criminal act, especially when communities are raising concerns linked to their survival, rehabilitation and legal safeguards. The PDP president noted that several Kashmiri Pandit organisations have opposed the move to subsume migrant relief rations under the NFSA framework, fearing that it could dilute their distinct migrant status and gradually erode the special relief and rehabilitation mechanisms created for families displaced from the Valley in the 1990s. She said many within the community view the move as an attempt to reduce a humanitarian and displacement-related entitlement into a routine welfare scheme. She said the issue must be addressed through dialogue and confidence-building measures instead of police action and legal intimidation. âThe pain and displacement suffered by Kashmiri Pandits is a reality that cannot be ignored. Any policy decision affecting them must be taken only after meaningful consultation with the community,â she said. Mehbooba Mufti further said that democratic governments must create space for citizens to express concerns peacefully and that using police action against every form of disagreement only widens mistrust and alienation. She urged the administration to withdraw the FIR and initiate a transparent dialogue with representatives of the Kashmiri Pandit community over the NFSA-related concerns.
Expresses solidarity with bereaved family & prays for departed soul; Emphasizes personal bonds over differences in politics Srinagar, May 22: J&K Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone Friday led a senior party delegation to the residence of Baramulla MP Er Rashid and Langate MLA Sheikh Khursheed to offer condolences on the passing of their father, Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh. The delegation, comprising Chief Spokesperson Advocate Bashir Ahmad Dar, Provincial President Kashmir & Former Chairman DDC Kupwara Irfan Panditpuri, District President Kupwara Hafiz Ullah Mir, and District Coordinator Abdul Ahad Kashmiri, expressed heartfelt solidarity with the grieving family and prayed for peace for the departed soul. Addressing the gathering, Sajad Lone emphasized that his visit completely transcended political boundaries and was deeply rooted in decades of profound personal connection. While openly acknowledging their current political differences, Lone underscored the enduring mutual respect between their families. He fondly recalled the 2009 parliamentary elections, noting that although Er Rashid opposed him politically at the time, the late Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh, his wife and Sheikh Khursheed had steadfastly supported and voted for him out of unwavering affection and loyalty to the late Abdul Ghani Lone. Reflecting on their shared history, Lone reminisced about his earliest interactions with Er Rashid over two decades ago, well before Rashid's entry into mainstream politics. Reaffirming the strictly personal nature of his condolence visit, Lone stated unequivocally that he was standing not at the residence of an MP or an MLA, but at the home of Khazir Mohammad Sheikh, a man he warmly remembered for his constant prayers and deep respect. Concluding his address, Lone reiterated that political rivalries belong outside the doors of a grieving household and prayed that Almighty Allah grants the departed soul the highest place in paradise.
Srinagar, May 19: Thousands of people from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday participated in the funeral procession and Nimaz-e-Jinazah of late Haji Khazir Mohammad Sheikh, father of Member of Parliament Baramulla, Engineer Rashid, at their ancestral village Mawar Payeen in Handwara. Earlier this morning, Er Rashid was released from Tihar Jail on interim bail and directly reached Srinagar Airport before proceeding towards his ancestral village to participate in the funeral rites of his father. The funeral prayers were led by Senior Awami Itihaad Party leader and MLA Langate Sheikh Khursheed Ahmad amid an emotionally charged atmosphere marked by grief, prayers and large public participation. People from different walks of life, including political, social and religious personalities, visited the family to offer condolences and express solidarity with Er Rashid and his family. Addressing mourners at the funeral prayers, Er Rashid made an emotional appeal asking people to learn lessons from death and reflect upon the futility of hatred, animosity and revenge in human life. He said his struggle has never been against individuals or ordinary people but against injustice and systems that allow injustice to flourish. Recalling an incident from his days as a social activist before entering electoral politics, Er Rashid narrated how authorities had once announced a reward to capture a man-eating animal alive instead of killing it so that its violent behaviour could be changed. Drawing a parallel, he said if society can attempt to reform even a dangerous animal, then human beings who may have committed mistakes also deserve opportunities for reform, dignity and justice rather than permanent hatred and exclusion. He further said his political struggle is much bigger than issues like Article 370 or Statehood alone and is fundamentally linked to justice, dignity and respect for people. Er Rashid also expressed gratitude to all those who visited his ailing father, attended the funeral or conveyed condolences. He reiterated that he has no enmity with the 140 crore people of India and that his disagreement is only with systems that perpetuate injustice and inequality. Many mourners were seen emotionally moved during his brief address, which focused on compassion, humanity and reconciliation. Meanwhile, AIP Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi thanked the authorities, civil administration and police administration for smoothly managing the massive gathering and maintaining order during the funeral proceedings.
Baramulla, May 15: The indefinite strike by non-gazetted employees of Government Medical College Baramulla entered its fifth consecutive day on Friday, with protesting employees intensifying their demand for the immediate framing of recruitment rules and resolution of long-pending promotion issues. The employees continued their protest within the college premises, alleging that despite repeated representations over the years, their genuine demands have remained unaddressed. During the protest, Javaid Hussain Beigh visited the agitating employees and held interactions with members of the non-gazetted employeesâ body. He assured the protesters that their long-pending demands would be fulfilled soon and said that the matter would be taken up with the concerned authorities for an early resolution. The protesting employees reiterated that they will continue their agitation until concrete steps are taken regarding recruitment rules and career progression issues.
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.
