Srinagar, May 20: A grand joining programme was organised on Wednesday at Jawahar Nagar, Srinagar, where hundreds of people, including youth and prominent workers from the National Conference (NC) and other political parties, joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The joining programme was held in the presence of BJP J&K UT General Secretary (Organisation) Ashok Koul, Chairperson J&K Waqf Board (Minister of State) Dr Darakhshan Andrabi, BJP J&K UT General Secretary Mohammad Anwar Khan, and other party functionaries. Among those who joined the BJP were Danish Riyaz Dar (NC), Shabir Langoo, Mohammad Yousuf Zargar, Vice President of Bhartiya Krishak Samaj J&K, Tariq Sofi, and Sanoor Choudhary. Welcoming the new entrants into the BJP fold, Ashok Koul said that the people of Jammu & Kashmir, especially the youth, have lost faith in the ruling National Conference due to its politics of corruption, misgovernance, and failure to work for the welfare and development of the common people. He said that the BJP has emerged as the only party committed to transparency, development, good governance, and equal opportunities for all sections of society. He further added that the growing support for the BJP across Kashmir reflects the peopleâs trust in the policies and vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Dr Darakhshan Andrabi and other senior leaders also welcomed the new members and appreciated their decision to strengthen the hands of the BJP for peace, development, and progress in Jammu & Kashmir. The newly joined members expressed confidence in the BJP leadership and stated that they were inspired by the developmental initiatives and people centric policies of the party.
Srinagar, May 20: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari criticised the demolition drive in Jammuâs Sidhra during which authorities demolished more than two dozen hutments and temporary structures, triggering protests by affected families who alleged that the drive was unjustified, ruthless, and biased against a particular community. In his statement, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said, âThe manner in which the Sidhra demolition drive was carried out is deeply concerning. How could the authorities allow such a brutal and arbitrary demolition of the residential dwellings?â He further said, âReports suggest that the operation continued for nearly four hours in an area largely inhabited by members of the nomadic Gujjar community, with homes and shelters demolished in a ruthless manner. Under what law can officials carry out such forced evictions without due process?â âMany of the affected families claim they had been living there for years. If that is the case, the matter should have been handled with great care and strictly in accordance with the law and established guidelines,â he added. Apni Party chief went on to say, âI have seen videos in which affected people clearly state that they were not even served prior notices before the demolition was carried out. If this is true, it raises extremely serious questions about the legality of the entire exercise.â Expressing his concern over the allegations that the drive was conducted in a biased manner, targeting a particular community, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said, âThe most disturbing aspect is the growing perception that this drive was carried out with bias, targeting a particular community. This may not be true, but even such a perception can damage our social fabric and the hard-earned peace and normalcy in the Union Territory.â âI am deeply disturbed by this incident â not only because families allege they were rendered homeless and left on the roads without shelter, but also because such harsh and insensitive actions send a deeply troubling message to the people,â he added. Urging Chief Minister to intervene into the matter, Mr Bukhari said, âI urge the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to personally intervene in this matter without delay, order a fair and transparent inquiry, ensure justice for the affected families, and take concrete steps to ensure that such incidents are never repeated.â âAfter all, the fact remains that this so-called anti-encroachment drive was jointly carried out by the Forest Department, Forest Protection Force, and Revenue Department â all functioning under the elected government. Therefore, a government carrying a public mandate cannot evade accountability and responsibility for this disturbing action,â the statement added.
Baramulla, May 19:Â The Non-Gazetted Employees Forum of Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla on Tuesday organised a peaceful candlelight protest in support of employees facing long-pending service issues and stagnation in promotions. The protest was held in a disciplined manner, with employees gathering to express solidarity with staff members working across various medical colleges. The participants said that despite rendering years of dedicated service, many employees have not received promotions for the past seven years, leading to growing frustration and mental stress among the workforce. Speaking during the protest, an employee said the prolonged stagnation and lack of career progression had severely affected the morale of workers. He said the employees have continued to perform their duties sincerely despite uncertainty surrounding their professional growth. The employee further said that the six-day strike earlier launched by the employees was suspended following assurances given by Javid Hassan Baig. He said the employees respect the assurance of the MLA and hope that their genuine demands will be addressed in a positive and time-bound manner. The Non-Gazetted Employees Forum reiterated that its movement remains peaceful and democratic and appealed to the administration and concerned authorities to resolve the long-pending issues of employees at the earliest.
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.
Srinagar, May 20: A grand joining programme was organised on Wednesday at Jawahar Nagar, Srinagar, where hundreds of people, including youth and prominent workers from the National Conference (NC) and other political parties, joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The joining programme was held in the presence of BJP J&K UT General Secretary (Organisation) Ashok Koul, Chairperson J&K Waqf Board (Minister of State) Dr Darakhshan Andrabi, BJP J&K UT General Secretary Mohammad Anwar Khan, and other party functionaries. Among those who joined the BJP were Danish Riyaz Dar (NC), Shabir Langoo, Mohammad Yousuf Zargar, Vice President of Bhartiya Krishak Samaj J&K, Tariq Sofi, and Sanoor Choudhary. Welcoming the new entrants into the BJP fold, Ashok Koul said that the people of Jammu & Kashmir, especially the youth, have lost faith in the ruling National Conference due to its politics of corruption, misgovernance, and failure to work for the welfare and development of the common people. He said that the BJP has emerged as the only party committed to transparency, development, good governance, and equal opportunities for all sections of society. He further added that the growing support for the BJP across Kashmir reflects the peopleâs trust in the policies and vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Dr Darakhshan Andrabi and other senior leaders also welcomed the new members and appreciated their decision to strengthen the hands of the BJP for peace, development, and progress in Jammu & Kashmir. The newly joined members expressed confidence in the BJP leadership and stated that they were inspired by the developmental initiatives and people centric policies of the party.
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 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.
Kupwara, May 14: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Thursday inaugurated the 'ShauryaGatha' Complex at SM Hill in Tangdhar, Karnah in Kupwara District. The initiative marked a significant milestone in the promotion of battlefield tourism, heritage preservation and border area development. The Lieutenant Governor applauded Northern Command, Chinar Corps, and all officers, soldiers, engineers, workforce and local residents for the completion of the prestigious project in a short span of time. He said our brave soldiers laid down their lives to defend the motherland, and their courage and sacrifice should be instilled in every Indian as a powerful source of pride and inspiration. âThe dedication of our forces and people is the true strength of the nation. The ShauryaGatha Complex stands as a tribute to the valour and sacrifices of Indian soldiers. This initiative will create new opportunities for border area and battle field tourism, homestays, local crafts and youth entrepreneurship,â the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted the stark contrast between development on this side of the Line of Control and the conditions in illegally Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, noting that Jammu & Kashmir is witnessing an era of peace, progress and prosperity, while PoJK continues to suffer from neglect and misgovernance. He reaffirmed that Jammu & Kashmir was, is and will always remain an integral part of India. âJammu & Kashmir is moving forward with development on all fronts. There is a renewed sense of self-confidence, and the society is prosperous and peaceful than ever before,â the Lieutenant Governor said. He also reiterated that the administration is committed to the development of the border region. He said that the initiative like promotion of valour site under Bharat RannbhoomiDarshan initiative will usher economic growth and prosperity in Tangdhar-Karnah region, besides showcasing the rich defence legacy and culture of the region. He said that seven villages of Tangdhar, Karnah have been included under the Vibrant Village Programme, ensuring improved infrastructure, livelihood opportunities and quality of life. Highlighting the importance of the Sadhna Tunnel, the Lieutenant Governor stated that it will significantly enhance connectivity, security, and economic activity in the region by providing all-weather access and facilitating trade, education, healthcare and disaster response. Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) Northern Command, Lieutenant General Balbir Singh GOC Chinar Corps, Dr. Ashish Chandra Verma, Additional Chief Secretary, Tourism Department, Major General Rakesh Nair GOC 28 Infantry Division, Anshul Garg Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Brigadier Dharmendra Yadav Commander Shakti Vijay Brigade, senior officers from the Army, Civil Administration, Police and Security Forces attended the inaugural ceremony.
Srinagar, May 13: Additional Chief Secretary Jal Shakti Department J&K, Shaleen Kabra Wednesday conducted an extensive inspection of various Water Supply Schemes in Kupwara to review the progress, functioning and quality of drinking water supply infrastructure being developed under Jal Jeevan Mission in the district. During the visit, the Additional Chief Secretary inspected the ongoing and completed works. He appreciated the work done under the scheme and directed to complete and commission the same as soon as the funds are released by the government. The officers and engineers from the Jal Shakti Department briefed the Additional Chief Secretary on the status of execution, water supply position, challenges faced and measures being taken to improve services. Emphasis was laid on maintaining quality standards, ensuring timely completion of works and adhering to a proper timeframe, as funds are expected to be released in the coming months. The Additional Chief Secretary directed the concerned officers to expedite pending works, strengthen monitoring mechanisms and ensure optimum utilization of resources. Emphasis was also laid on public welfare, transparency and adherence to technical specifications in all development works. The Additional Chief Secretary appreciated the efforts of the field staff and Engineers working for augmentation of drinking water facilities in the district. He reiterated the governmentâs commitment towards providing safe and sustainable drinking water to every household. Senior officers of the Jal Shakti Department including Chief Engineer PHE Kashmir, Director Planning Jal Shakti Department and Superintending Engineer Hydraulic Circle Kupwara accompanied the Additional Chief Secretary during the inspection.
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.
