Govt always acts responsibly, proactively: Sakina Itoo Srinagar, May 30: The minister for education on Saturday said that the J&K government has always acted responsibly and proactively with regard to the Teachers Eligibility Test (TET) issue concerning teachers across Jammu and Kashmir. In a post on X, she said the government has consistently taken up this matter and, "more importantly", followed it up with concrete action. "In the past as well, we have acted to protect the interests of our teachers," she wrote on X. The education minister said the government has already accorded sanction to file a review petition before the Supreme Court while the Department of Law, Justice & Parliamentary Affairs, vide communication dated 26.05.2026, has directed its Standing Counsel to initiate the necessary legal proceedings. "The review petition has been prepared and will be filed before the Supreme Court in the coming week," she said. "We remain fully committed to safeguarding the interests of our teachers," the post on X reads. Earlier, Former J&K Chief Minister and president Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mehbooba Mufti, on Saturday expressed concern over the uncertainty faced by thousands of teachers in Jammu and Kashmir due to the ongoing Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) issue. In a post on X, Mehbooba said that thousands of teachers in the Union Territory were facing anguish, uncertainty and the looming threat of termination. She alleged that while several states were pursuing review petitions before the Supreme Court to safeguard the interests of affected teachers, the Jammu and Kashmir government had remained silent despite earlier assurances of support. The PDP chief said teachers deserved advocacy and protection at a crucial juncture that could determine their livelihood and future. She urged the authorities to take effective measures to safeguard the interests of the affected teaching community. As already reported, Supreme Court has dismissed a batch of review petitions challenging its earlier verdict making the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) mandatory for in-service teachers, but granted additional time till August 31, 2028 for acquiring the qualification. A bench comprising Justice Dipankar Datta and Justice Manmohan upheld its earlier judgment in Anjuman Ishaat-e-Taleem Trust vs State of Maharashtra, ruling that qualifying the TET was a mandatory eligibility condition for continuation in service as well as for promotions. However, taking note of practical difficulties faced by thousands of teachers across the country, the apex court extended the compliance period from two years to three years by exercising powers under Article 142 of the Constitution. âThe qualification has to be obtained by 31st August, 2028 instead of 31st August, 2027, as originally directed,â the court said. The judgment came while deciding a large batch of review petitions filed by various states, teachersâ associations and individual teachers who had challenged the courtâs earlier ruling requiring in-service teachers recruited before the enactment of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009 to qualify the TET.
Srinagar, May 30: Former J&K Chief Minister and president Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mehbooba Mufti, on Saturday expressed concern over the uncertainty faced by thousands of teachers in Jammu and Kashmir due to the ongoing Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) issue. In a post on X, Mehbooba said that thousands of teachers in the Union Territory were facing anguish, uncertainty and the looming threat of termination. She alleged that while several states were pursuing review petitions before the Supreme Court to safeguard the interests of affected teachers, the Jammu and Kashmir government had remained silent despite earlier assurances of support. The PDP chief said teachers deserved advocacy and protection at a crucial juncture that could determine their livelihood and future. She urged the authorities to take effective measures to safeguard the interests of the affected teaching community. As already reported, Supreme Court has dismissed a batch of review petitions challenging its earlier verdict making the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) mandatory for in-service teachers, but granted additional time till August 31, 2028 for acquiring the qualification. A bench comprising Justice Dipankar Datta and Justice Manmohan upheld its earlier judgment in Anjuman Ishaat-e-Taleem Trust vs State of Maharashtra, ruling that qualifying the TET was a mandatory eligibility condition for continuation in service as well as for promotions. However, taking note of practical difficulties faced by thousands of teachers across the country, the apex court extended the compliance period from two years to three years by exercising powers under Article 142 of the Constitution. âThe qualification has to be obtained by 31st August, 2028 instead of 31st August, 2027, as originally directed,â the court said. The judgment came while deciding a large batch of review petitions filed by various states, teachersâ associations and individual teachers who had challenged the courtâs earlier ruling requiring in-service teachers recruited before the enactment of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009 to qualify the TET. The petitioners had argued that the RTE Act and subsequent amendments could not be applied retrospectively to teachers who were appointed before TET was introduced as an essential qualification. They contended that teachers had been recruited under prevailing service rules at the relevant time and imposing TET midway through their careers amounted to changing service conditions retrospectively. Rejecting the arguments, the Supreme Court held that the statutory framework under the RTE Act clearly intended in-service teachers also to acquire prescribed minimum qualifications within a stipulated timeframe. The court observed that the law neither invalidated past appointments nor imposed immediate disqualification, but instead provided sufficient time for teachers to comply with qualification requirements. âService of teachers cannot come at the cost of educational future of the children,â the court observed, while emphasising that the RTE Act was a child-centric legislation aimed at ensuring quality education. The bench noted that teachers had already received more than 15 years since the implementation of the RTE Act to acquire the TET qualification and said the additional three-year window granted now should be treated as final. âWe make it abundantly clear that no further prayer for extension of time shall be entertained,â the court said. At the same time, the apex court acknowledged concerns raised by states that disqualification of large numbers of teachers within a short period could adversely affect school functioning and disrupt childrenâs education. To address the issue, the court directed states and competent authorities to conduct TET examinations periodically and preferably twice every year with an interval of around six months between examinations. The judgment is expected to impact thousands of in-service teachers across various states who are yet to clear the Teacher Eligibility Test despite continuing in service for years. The court also reiterated that a review petition could not be treated as âan appeal in disguiseâ unless there was a clear error apparent on the face of the record. âWith the aforesaid modification of the order under review, all the petitions stand dismissed,â the bench ruled.
Srinagar, May 30: J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Saturday extended his greetings as the two-day global alumni reunion SANGAM-3.0 commenced at National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar. He expressed confidence that the initiative would promote innovation, mentorship, collaboration and knowledge-sharing while contributing to the academic and professional growth of the institution and the region. The event was organised by the Office of Dean Alumni and International Affairs in collaboration with the Alumni Association of REC-NIT Srinagar. The event aims to strengthen alumni engagement, foster academic and professional collaboration, and reconnect former students with their alma mater. The inaugural ceremony was held at the Common Hall of the institute and commenced with the National Anthem, lighting of the ceremonial lamp, and formal welcome of alumni, guests, and dignitaries. On the occasion, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, conveyed his greetings and best wishes to the organisers and participants. In his message, he lauded NIT Srinagar for fostering a strong alumni network and providing a platform that reconnects generations of graduates. He expressed confidence that SANGAM-3.0 would strengthen collaboration, innovation, mentorship, and knowledge-sharing, while contributing to the academic and professional growth of the institution and the region. Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. B K Kanaujia, while addressing the gathering, said that SANGAM-3.0 represents the Instituteâs vision of building stronger bridges with its alumni community across the globe. âOur alumni are the pride and strength of this institution. SANGAM is a celebration of our collective achievements, shared memories and future aspirations. The success stories of our alumni continue to inspire students and contribute immensely towards the growth and reputation of NIT Srinagar at national and international levels,â he said. Prof Kanaujia said that Institute is actively working towards enhancing research collaborations, innovation ecosystems and industry-academia partnerships with the support and guidance of its alumni network. Institute Registrar, Prof. Atikur Rehman, said that the alumni meet provides an important platform for meaningful interaction between alumni, faculty members, and students. âThe institute deeply values the emotional connection and continued support of its alumni. Such events help in strengthening institutional identity and creating opportunities for mentorship, networking and collaborative initiatives,â he said. Dean Alumni and International Affairs, Prof M A Shah, said the overwhelming response to SANGAM-3.0 reflects the strong bond alumni continue to share with the institute despite being spread across different parts of the world. âWe are witnessing participation from alumni belonging to different batches and professions. The event has been designed not only as a reunion but also as a platform to promote innovation, academic collaboration, entrepreneurship, and student mentorship,â he said. âSANGAM is not just an event but a long-term movement aimed at reconnecting generations of alumni with the institute and encouraging them to contribute towards academic excellence, research, innovation and institutional growth,â Prof. Shah said. President Alumni Association REC/NIT Srinagar, Er Malay Chatterjee, described the alumni community as the âtorch bearersâ of the institution and urged graduates to remain connected with their alma mater through academic, professional and philanthropic contributions. Guest of Honor, MLA Surankote and distinguished alumnus, Er. Chaudhary Muhammad Ikram, MLA Surankote termed the alumni meet a bridge between the government and the alma mater and appreciated the institute for reconnecting generations of alumni through SANGAM-3.0. Vice President of Alumni Association REC/NIT Srinagar, Er Sayed Parvez Qalandar, while addressing the gathering, stressed the importance of maintaining strong alumni-institute relations and called upon former students to actively contribute towards mentoring and supporting young graduates. Chairman Bureau of Public Enterprises, J&K Government, Er Talat Parvaz (IAS), also addressed the gathering and highlighted the growing role of technical institutions in shaping future leadership, governance and innovation. The institute also felicitated silver, golden, and diamond jubilee batches along with ten distinguished alumni for their outstanding contributions in academics, administration, engineering, entrepreneurship and public service. Earlier Er. Irfan Bashir Ashai, General Secretary of the Alumni Association REC/NIT Srinagar, delivered the Welcome address and warmly welcomed the guests, alumni, faculty members, and participants. He highlighted the importance of staying connected with the alma mater and strengthening the bond among alumni of NIT Srinagar. A major highlight of the inaugural session was the release of âBridges & Beacons: A Chronicle of NIT Srinagar,â a publication documenting the Instituteâs journey, milestones, achievements and contributions over the decades. During the programme, the Member-Secretary of the Alumni Association Election Commission presented an exclusive report regarding the elected members of the Alumni Association and highlighted the role of alumni in strengthening the instituteâs outreach and development initiatives. Later, alumni shared their professional experiences and success stories during the âVoices of Experienceâ session, inspiring students and young graduates with valuable insights from diverse fields. Associate Dean Alumni and International Affairs Dr H S Pali presented the vote of thanks and appreciated the efforts of organisers, faculty members, volunteers, alumni and participants for making the event successful. In the afternoon session, alumni participated in the âAlumni Back to Classroom (ABC)â programme, and the overall event was coordinated by Dr Dinesh Kr. Rajendran. The alumni interacted with students in various departments and shared professional experiences, industry insights, and career guidance. Alumnus also visited the library, workshop, CRF, WRC, laboratories, and research centres of the institute to witness recent academic and infrastructural advancements achieved by NIT Srinagar. The first day of SANGAM-3.0 concluded with a cultural programme featuring performances by students and alumni at the Common Hall.
Srinagar, May 30: Hundreds of candidates appearing for the Common University Entrance Test Undergraduate (CUET-UG) 2026 faced disruption on Saturday after a technical glitch at several examination centres delayed the commencement of the first shift, prompting the National Testing Agency (NTA) to order an investigation and announce a special re-examination for affected students. In an official statement, the NTA said the technical issue, reported by its service provider TCS iON, affected the start of Shift-I examinations at some centres across the country. While the problem was later resolved and the examination resumed with compensatory time, the disruption caused inconvenience and uncertainty for candidates and their families. According to the agency, nearly 95 per cent of candidates were able to complete their examination after services were restored. However, 3,765 candidates who had reported to their centres, completed biometric registration and were present for the examination chose to leave before the test could restart. The NTA said these candidates would be given a fresh opportunity to take the examination through a one-time rescheduled test. The date and other details of the special examination will be announced separately on the official CUET website. "The technical service provider, TCS iON, has been directed to conduct a root-cause analysis and submit its report immediately," the agency said, adding that no candidate who remained at the centre would be disadvantaged as full compensatory time was provided. The agency further revised the schedule for the afternoon session, postponing the commencement of the examination by one hour. Candidates were asked to report at 2.30 pm, while the examination began at 4 pm instead of the originally scheduled 3 pm. NTA expressed regret over the disruption, stating that it understood the distress caused to students and parents. It reiterated that candidates who were present at their centres on May 30, completed biometric verification but could not complete the examination due to the technical failure would be accommodated through the rescheduled test. The incident comes weeks before the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test Undergraduate (NEET-UG) 2026, scheduled for June 21. Meanwhile, Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta announced that the Delhi Government would provide free travel in all Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses for NEET-UG 2026 candidates on examination day upon presentation of a valid admit card. "No student should face inconvenience on a day that holds such importance for their future," the Chief Minister said in a post on X and extended her best wishes to aspirants appearing for the medical entrance examination.
Govt always acts responsibly, proactively: Sakina Itoo Srinagar, May 30: The minister for education on Saturday said that the J&K government has always acted responsibly and proactively with regard to the Teachers Eligibility Test (TET) issue concerning teachers across Jammu and Kashmir. In a post on X, she said the government has consistently taken up this matter and, "more importantly", followed it up with concrete action. "In the past as well, we have acted to protect the interests of our teachers," she wrote on X. The education minister said the government has already accorded sanction to file a review petition before the Supreme Court while the Department of Law, Justice & Parliamentary Affairs, vide communication dated 26.05.2026, has directed its Standing Counsel to initiate the necessary legal proceedings. "The review petition has been prepared and will be filed before the Supreme Court in the coming week," she said. "We remain fully committed to safeguarding the interests of our teachers," the post on X reads. Earlier, Former J&K Chief Minister and president Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mehbooba Mufti, on Saturday expressed concern over the uncertainty faced by thousands of teachers in Jammu and Kashmir due to the ongoing Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) issue. In a post on X, Mehbooba said that thousands of teachers in the Union Territory were facing anguish, uncertainty and the looming threat of termination. She alleged that while several states were pursuing review petitions before the Supreme Court to safeguard the interests of affected teachers, the Jammu and Kashmir government had remained silent despite earlier assurances of support. The PDP chief said teachers deserved advocacy and protection at a crucial juncture that could determine their livelihood and future. She urged the authorities to take effective measures to safeguard the interests of the affected teaching community. As already reported, Supreme Court has dismissed a batch of review petitions challenging its earlier verdict making the Teacher Eligibility Test (TET) mandatory for in-service teachers, but granted additional time till August 31, 2028 for acquiring the qualification. A bench comprising Justice Dipankar Datta and Justice Manmohan upheld its earlier judgment in Anjuman Ishaat-e-Taleem Trust vs State of Maharashtra, ruling that qualifying the TET was a mandatory eligibility condition for continuation in service as well as for promotions. However, taking note of practical difficulties faced by thousands of teachers across the country, the apex court extended the compliance period from two years to three years by exercising powers under Article 142 of the Constitution. âThe qualification has to be obtained by 31st August, 2028 instead of 31st August, 2027, as originally directed,â the court said. The judgment came while deciding a large batch of review petitions filed by various states, teachersâ associations and individual teachers who had challenged the courtâs earlier ruling requiring in-service teachers recruited before the enactment of the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009 to qualify the TET.
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 30: J&K Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone on Saturday paid warm and heartfelt tributes to former MLA and veteran political leader Mohammad Sultan Pandithpuri on the solemn occasion of his first death anniversary. In a deeply felt tribute, Lone remembered Mohammad Sultan Panditpuri as a leader of rare vision and quiet dedication who devoted his life not to the pursuit of power but to the genuine welfare and empowerment of the people of Langate and Kupwara. "Sultan Sahib was a farsighted leader who understood that the true strength of a society lies in nurturing capable leadership," Lone said, reflecting on a legacy that continues to resonate across the region. The PC President emphasised that the veteran leader's contribution to public life transcended electoral politics as he was among those uncommon leaders who consistently encouraged young minds to enter public life. "He consistently encouraged young minds to participate in public life and worked tirelessly to build a strong, responsible, and people-centric leadership in Kupwara," he remarked. Lone added that the departed leader worked tirelessly to build a strong, responsible and people centric political culture in the region rooted in integrity, community and commitment to the common good. "His vision extended beyond elections," Lone observed. "He believed in creating institutions, empowering communities and preparing future generations to lead with honesty and purpose. That is a standard few meet and fewer sustain." Lone concluded his tribute with profound reverence, noting that Sultan Sahib's wisdom, dedication and service oriented politics remain a living source of inspiration. "His legacy endures in the countless lives he touched and the values he stood for until his last breath," he added.
Srinagar, May 29: Several Members of Parliament on Friday visited Mawar Langate in north Kashmirâs Kupwara district, the residence of Member of Parliament Baramulla, Engineer Rashid to offer condolences and express solidarity with the bereaved family during this difficult time. The parliamentary delegation included MPs Umesh Bahubhai Patel and Sudhakar Singh along with other political leaders from different states. The visiting MPs interacted with family members, party leaders and scores of people gathered at the residence. Talking to reporters, the visiting MPs said that there is no dearth of voices across the country who genuinely feel the pain and sufferings of the people of Jammu & Kashmir. They maintained that democratic engagement and sincere dialogue are essential for lasting peace and reconciliation in the region. Leading the delegation, MP Sudhakar Singh from Bihar said that there is no doubt that the people of Kashmir have suffered immensely and their voices must be heard with sincerity, dignity and seriousness. He appreciated the consistent concern shown by Engineer Rashid in Parliament regarding the political and human rights issues of Jammu & Kashmir. He further stated that the Modi Government, by not engaging meaningfully with the people of Jammu & Kashmir, is further deepening the sense of alienation. He added that the continued incarceration of Engineer Rashid is weakening the bridge between New Delhi and Kashmir and demanded his immediate release so that he can continue to serve the people who have overwhelmingly reposed faith in him. The visiting MPs also interacted with people from different walks of life and assured them that the people of India are not enemies of Kashmiris. They said that all those commitments and agreements which form the basis of the relationship between New Delhi and the people of Jammu & Kashmir must be respected and honoured in letter and spirit. The delegation reiterated the need for dialogue, reconciliation and democratic engagement to address the aspirations and grievances of the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
Budgam, May 26: MLA Budgam and noted Advocate Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi has expressed profound grief and outrage over the brutal rape and murder of a 12-year-old girl in the Galwampora area of Budgam, describing the incident as horrifying and a stain on humanity. In a statement issued on Tuesday, Aga Muntazir said the gruesome crime has shaken the conscience of the entire society and called for exemplary punishment for those involved. He said the pain and trauma suffered by the victimâs family cannot be expressed in words and justice must be ensured in the strongest possible manner. Highlighting his role as an Advocate, the MLA announced that he would personally assist and fight the legal battle for the victimâs family to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. âAs an Advocate , a citizen and peopleâs representative from Budgam , I consider it my moral and legal responsibility to stand with the family in this difficult time. I will personally extend every possible legal assistance and support to ensure justice is delivered and no guilty person escapes accountability,â he said. He demanded a swift, transparent and time-bound investigation into the case and urged the administration to act firmly and decisively against those responsible. Aga Muntazir also appealed to the people to remain united and support the bereaved family, saying society must collectively raise its voice against such heinous crimes and ensure justice for the innocent victim.
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.
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.
