'NC denied security, got people killed & now it wants to play victim' Srinagar, March 31: Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara Sajad Lone on Tuesday made sharp counter-offensive against the National Conference leadership over the ongoing bungalow and security controversy, saying the party that once weaponised security denial as a political instrument had no moral standing to cry foul today. "As for this bungalow, it was neither anyone's inheritance in the past, nor will it be anyone's property in the future," Lone said. "When someone sits in power, they get the delusion that all of this is theirs. When they leave, they realise nothing belongs to them." Lone made clear his continued stay at the accommodation was not a matter of comfort but of necessity. "I have had a tragedy in my house, an assassination and I have a certain level of security. Let them arrange a house of that level for me and I will leave the very next day. I have no fondness for living there." Turning the argument on its head, Lone accused the NC of having systematically weaponised security mechanisms after 1996 while placing political opponents on OGW lists, denying Police Clearance Certificates to thousands and leaving those out of favour exposed to violence.  "After 1996, the maximum number of people were put on the OGW list by them. Whoever was not with them was denied security and then left vulnerable to be killed. They have records of that. And now they want to play victims." He recounted a deeply personal episode to illustrate the charge. "When I was taking my father's funeral procession, I was not given security. He was buried just 100 feet from where he was killed," Sajad Lone recalled . Lone said the Divisional Commissioner at the time had warned him of mortal danger, yet the government refused his security request. "Were those who died not human? Did they not deserve security? Where were your principles then?" On Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary's remark that Lone's chair would need washing, Lone was dismissive. "Absolutely, it will have to be washed, he is bringing disrepute to that chair."  He added that in the full catalogue of damage done through the erosion of Article 35-A and Article 370, placing the Deputy CM in office ranked among the gravest. Lone also took aim at Chief Minister Omar Abdullah directly. "I saw it myself, Omar Abdullah whispered to him to speak, and he stood up. How petty is that? Will this bring statehood? Will this fight for Kashmir?" He said security was important for everyone but "My only point is, who weaponised it first? Today, when something minor happens to you, you raise an uproar like frightened children." "If you are scared, then leave, who asked you to enter politics," he added.

Jammu, Mar 31: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary on Tuesday said the safety of legislators cannot be compromised and called for an immediate review of the recent security withdrawal decisions in Jammu and Kashmir. Talking to reporters in Jammu, Dy CM said that threat perception must remain the sole basis for providing security to elected representatives and mainstream political leaders. He said any decision driven by discretion rather than ground assessment could put lives at risk. He urged the Lieutenant Governor to personally review the withdrawal of security, particularly in view of past militant attacks on political figures "Several legislators had been targeted earlier and such incidents demand a cautious approach," he said. The Deputy Chief Minister said the security scenario in the region cannot be described as fully normal. He referred to official acknowledgements about the presence of militants and said reducing protection at this stage was not advisable. He also called for uniformity in security arrangements, stating that all legislators should receive protection strictly as per assessed threat levels without any partial treatment. Raising concerns over security cover being extended to individuals without any defined role in mainstream politics, Dy CM questioned the criteria for such allocations and called for transparency and rationalisation. Reacting to remarks made by MLA Sajad Gani Lone during a heated exchange in the House, the Deputy Chief Minister said Lone, despite being a victim of militancy, appeared to have taken the issue lightly and attempted to politicise it.

'Thousands died Under your watch, don't talk security now' Srinagar, Mar 31: A stormy session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly witnessed Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara Sajad Lone deliver a blistering intervention, calling out what he described as selective outrage and institutional inconsistency on the question of security. Opening with a direct address to the Chair, Lone while addressing to Speaker saying, "Sir, when we talk about the PSA or police verification, you say this House does not have the power… so why are you allowing them to talk so much on security?". He exposed the contradiction between restricting debate on core legal instruments while permitting prolonged political theatre on security arrangements. Despite repeated interruptions, he pressed on, asserting that those who deny the Assembly's jurisdiction cannot simultaneously exploit it for optics. Drawing from personal experience, Lone said, "I have the highest level of security, yet I don't even have a house guard at my home… but the way they are projecting it is misleading." In a sharp escalation, he invoked the National Conference's record in office, declaring, "During your time, thousands of people were killed because security was not provided… this is a reality."  He further disclosed, "They did not even provide me security to go to the graveyard for the burial of my father" — underlining his assertion that many, including himself, have long been on the receiving end of the very neglect now being lamented. Targeting what he characterised as entitlement politics, Lone said, "Their office security was withdrawn, and they didn't make noise then… this attempt to become martyrs, cut it out." He advised aggrieved members to raise their concerns with the Union Home Ministry rather than disrupt the proceedings of the House. The exchange grew more confrontational as he called out perceived hypocrisy, saying, "You are living in a Cabinet Minister's house and come here to lecture others… if you have self-respect, leave that house." Concluding amid persistent commotion, Lone issued a pointed warning against reckless rhetoric: "When you call others the 'B team of BJP', doesn't it cross your mind someone might kill them? Security is not just about this…" He repeatedly urged the House to allow him to speak, framing the intervention as a necessary pushback against the politicisation of security and what he called the manufacturing of selective victimhood.

Jammu, Mar 30: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday called for an immediate end to the ongoing West Asia conflict, stressing that the Prime Minister Narendra Modi is uniquely positioned to facilitate peace. Talking to reporters outside the Assembly complex in Jammu, CM Omar said he had mentioned in the House, that we want the war to end as soon as possible. "The role that PM Modi can play, perhaps no one else can, because he has good relations with all these countries. Even knowing the challenges involved, a ceasefire should be declared and the conflict should be brought to an end here itself,” Omar said. He highlighted the complexities of international diplomacy, citing Iran, Israel and the United States. “Even after knowing that reckless steps could be taken, no one has ruled Iran effectively for many years. Ending this conflict won’t be simple,” CM Omar Abdullah said. "We want the war to end. If any country can help achieve that, let it be. And if India can play a better role, we should take it.” Referring to the BJP’s collaborations in Assam, Kerala and Tamil Nadu, he said these alliances will ultimately decide outcomes, including in Pondicherry.

Jammu, Mar 30: J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday urged citizens to draw inspiration from the Prime Minister’s unwavering resolve and march shoulder-to-shoulder in building a strong and prosperous India. He said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi was working tirelessly round-the-clock for the nation's welfare. Speaking at the closing ceremony of special phase marking the 150 years of Vande Mataram, here, LG Sinha said PM Modi works tirelessly, round-the-clock, for the nation's welfare. "Let us draw strength from his resolve and stride shoulder-to-shoulder toward a strong, prosperous India," he said. The Lieutenant Governor said that the past decade brought global turmoil and crisis from Ukraine to West Asia plagued most nations, yet, under the able leadership and guidance of PM Modi, India has emerged resilient, sustaining its position as the world's fastest-growing major economy. LG Sinha said that under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Jammu Kashmir has been integrated into the national mainstream. “The Union Territory has set new benchmarks in development. It is showcasing profound patriotism through pivotal events like Vande Mataram and Har Ghar Tiranga,” the Lieutenant Governor said. He termed Vande Mataram was India’s identity, strength, and vow and it is not just verses but a profound experience woven into our civilization's fabric. "Vande Mataram singing and related events revives memories of immortal martyrs, honors their sacrifices, and renews our commitment to India's glory," he said. He called upon every section of society to share one dream: making India the world's greatest nation. “We must unite to realize it. When every citizen of J&K UT dedicates themselves to building a developed India, I believe that collective spirit will become an unstoppable force,” the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor emphasised that the devotion and fervor in Jammu Kashmir towards Vande Matram, reflects how this Union Territory has shed painful chapters, embracing the ideals we have toiled for over the last five-six years. The nation witnessed Jammu Kashmir's stellar contribution during the previous phases of Vande Mataram @150 years commemorative event. In the first phase (November 7-14, 2025), 9 of India's top 10 performing districts were from UT, with Kishtwar at Number 1. In the second (January 19-26, 2026), 6 were from Jammu Kashmir, led by Poonch. The Lieutenant Governor said the overwhelming participation of people of Jammu Kashmir in the previous two phases of Vande Mataram event and embrace of its values signal a transformative power for the future. “I firmly believe a region's greatest strength lies in its ability to envision its future. In Jammu Kashmir, I'm witnessing that potential flourish. It's vital to spread the message that true patriotism is the bedrock of peace and progress. It's a sense of responsibility, a spirit of contribution, assuring us that we can better the world together,” the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor said that Vande Mataram symbolized the dream, goal, and resolve generations fought for and the special week-long phase offered moments to reflect at the confluence of history and aspiration, paying tribute to countless sacrifices that grant us today's freedom, unity, and pride. “Vande Mataram inspires us to honor our past, empower our present, and pledge a bright future. This was a UT-level introspection, reviving cultural roots through public participation and enlisting every citizen in nation-building,” the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor also called upon the political parties, civil society members and all sections of society to join the fight against drug menace and transform Nasha Mukt campaign into People's Movement in Jammu Kashmir. Earlier, the Lieutenant Governor paid tribute to the great freedom fighters and visited a photo exhibition depicting their historic contributions.      The atmosphere was further enriched by the enthralling patriotic performances by the artists of J&K Academy of Art, Culture & Languages and students of Cluster University of Jammu. Pertinently, the special phase marking the 150 years of Vande Mataram was organised from March 23 to March 30 2026 to commemorate Shaheedi Diwas and honor the great martyrs of the freedom struggle, whose immense sacrifices paved the way for India's independence. Members of Legislative Assembly, Yudhvir Sethi, Vikram Randhawa and Arvind Gupta; Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo; Additional Chief Secretaries, Shaleen Kabra and Shailendra Kumar; Principal Secretary Culture, Brij Mohan Sharma; Commissioner Secretary, School Education, Ram Niwas Sharma, Vice Chancellors of various universities and senior officials were present. Padma Shri Dr Jitendra Udhampuri; Padma Shri Dr SP Varma; prominent citizens from different walks of life and youth in large number also attended the closing ceremony organised by Culture department.

Srinagar, Mar 29: The officers of the 2013 batch of the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) have flagged “prolonged and acute stagnation” in their career progression and sought structural and administrative reforms. The JKAS officers have submitted a representation to the J&K Lieutenant Governor (LG) Manoj Sinha and sought his intervention into the matter. The JKAS officers said that that despite completing over 13 years in service at the Junior Scale, they have not been promoted to the Time Scale. "The eligibility condition requires only four years of service for it," the representation reads. The officers have attributed the stagnation to multiple systemic issues, including non-utilisation of leave reserve posts, a large number of vacant posts in departmental feeding services, and the reduction of the promotional quota for direct recruits to 50 percent under SRO-256 of 2016. "These factors have curtailed promotional avenues and created an imbalance between direct recruits and departmental officers," it reads. The officers highlighted the issue of quota disparity and said that maintaining a 50:50 ratio both at the entry level and at the Time Scale level effectively gives a “double advantage” to departmental feeding services, placing direct recruits at a disadvantage despite their selection through a competitive process. The representation further pointed to a comparative disadvantage vis-à-vis other states such as Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Kerala, Haryana and Arunachal Pradesh, where direct recruits to state administrative services enjoy higher promotional quotas ensuring timely career progression. The JKAS officers said that around 728 Junior Scale JKAS officers have been appointed since 2011, out of which more than 575 direct recruits are still awaiting induction into the Time Scale. "Nearly 150 officers from departmental feeding services continue to progress faster," the representation reads. The officers also raised concerns over supersession and alleged that several departmental officers junior to JKAS officers of the 2012–2015 batches have already been promoted, leading to “serious administrative anomalies” and impacting morale within the service. "Officers from services such as Law, Accounts and Planning, appointed after 2012, have already moved up one or two promotional levels, while JKAS direct recruits continue to await their first promotion," it reads. Referring to the guidelines issued by the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the officers said that service rules were required to be reviewed every five years to prevent stagnation and ensure fairness. "The guidelines discourage denial of promotion to senior officers on the grounds of earlier eligibility of juniors," it reads. The representation reads that out of a total sanctioned strength of 800 posts, as many as 305 posts are vacant across various categories, including duty posts, technical quota, leave reserve and training reserve. "At least 30 posts are immediately available, while additional vacancies exist in unutilised technical quota and reserve categories," it reads. The JKAS officers have urged the administration to revise the promotional quota in favour of direct recruits to a 67:33 ratio on the lines of the IAS–JKAS model and abolish the largely unutilised technical quota, besides amending the service rules in conformity with DoPT guidelines and practices followed in other states. They called for immediate utilisation of vacant duty posts, leave reserve, training reserve and technical quota posts to grant long-pending promotions. The JKAS officers said that timely promotions were essential to maintain administrative efficiency, institutional integrity and morale within the service.

Jammu, Mar 29: J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Sunday said that the long-cherished dreams and aspirations of the people were steadily turning into reality. He said that J&K was prominently showcasing its vast tourism potential on the global stage under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He was speaking at the felicitation ceremony of Jammu Marathon at MA Stadium here. “Under the leadership of PM Modi, J&K is now showcasing its boundless tourism potential on the world map and the long-awaited dreams and aspirations are becoming a reality.” The J&K Lieutenant Governor recalled that when Government of India first conceived the Kashmir Marathon in December 2023 meeting, the goal wasn't just to organize a race but it envisioned a new Jammu Kashmir announcing its arrival on the global sporting stage. He said that through Jammu Marathon, the participants have not only discovered new experiences within themselves but also witnessed the profound changes sweeping Jammu Kashmir. Pertinently, the maiden international half Marathon in Jammu on Sunday, organized by J&K Tourism department, featuring 21 km, 10 km and 5 km race categories, witnessed the participation of more than 3000 runners from across the country and abroad. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha observed that fueled by the citizens' unyielding resolve, Jammu Kashmir Union Territory is setting new benchmarks in development. “The renewed resolve taking root in our sporting arena. I am especially delighted that, in pursuit of Fit India, we are also igniting a new sporting revolution in Jammu Kashmir,” the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor said that the Jammu Marathon symbolizes the profound transformation Jammu Kashmir has embraced since 2019. “Peace, prosperity and enabling conditions have made the UT a destination for world-class events. Its dream realised at last, as after seven decades, J&K claims its rightful place on the global stage,” he added. Terming the Jammu Marathon as a historic milestone, the Lieutenant Governor said that the Jammu has firmly established itself on the global running map. He said the success of the mega event promises a surge in tourism to the enchanting city of Jammu, benefiting Trade and Businesses and heralding an era of comprehensive development. “I see the marathon as the one event where runners don't worry about trophies, rankings, or medals. They just think about the next step. And that's the biggest lesson from a marathon," he said. He said that J&K itself embodies this principle. "Since 2019, we have advanced one step at a time, crafting a new identity for this Union Territory. We have transformed it into a hub of peace and prosperity, now capable of hosting international marathons, cricket tournaments, and even international events,” the Lieutenant Governor said.   “Union Territory has moved forward step by step and has now transformed into a completely different landscape. Events such as international-level marathons, the prestigious G20 Summit meetings, and international cricket tournaments are now being successfully organized in J&K," he said. He said that few years ago, no one would have imagined holding such international events in Jammu and Kashmir. "Today, participants themselves are witnesses to the positive changes the region has undergone,” he said. He invited tourists and participants from across the country and abroad. He urged people to visit Jammu and Kashmir and experience its transformation firsthand, emphasizing that the region is now ready to host world-class events in a peaceful and welcoming environment. Minister for Youth Services & Sports Satish Sharma, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary Tourism Department Dr. Ashish Chandra Verma, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar, IGP Jammu Bhim Sen Tuti and senior officials of civil and police administration were present. Film actors Milind Soman and Gul Panag besides prominent citizens, sportspersons and youth in large number also attended the felicitation ceremony.

Urges PM Modi to end West Asia War using  diplomacy Jammu, Mar 27: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Friday urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to leverage India’s strong diplomatic relations with key global players to help end the ongoing conflict in West Asia and alleviate human suffering in the region. The Chief Minister made these remarks while speaking during the ongoing Budget Session of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, where he addressed the escalating war in the Middle East that has affected lakhs of lives across the region and beyond. Highlighting the human cost of the conflict, the Chief Minister said that while global discourse often shifts between regime change, strategic concerns such as the Strait of Hormuz, and rising oil prices, there remains a lack of clarity on the continued suffering of the people of Iran over the past several weeks. He emphasized that the crisis directly impacts India as well, noting that many Indian citizens, including those from Jammu and Kashmir, are stranded in Iran. He also pointed to the visible effects at home, such as long queues at petrol pumps, and the emotional distress felt by people. “As representatives of the people, we have every right to raise our concerns in this House,” he said, adding that although the Assembly may not be in a position to stop the war, India’s diplomatic standing places it in a unique position to contribute towards peace. Referring to India’s relations with countries such as the United States, Israel, Iran, and other regional powers, the Chief Minister expressed confidence in the Centre’s ability to play a constructive role. He urged that an appeal be made to the Prime Minister to use these relationships and personal diplomatic channels to help bring the conflict to an early end. He further stated that ending the war would not only reduce the suffering of the people in the affected regions but also allow for peaceful coexistence among nations. The Chief Minister strongly condemned what he described as an “unjust and illegal war imposed on Iran” and expressed condolences for all those who have lost their lives in the conflict, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and including his associates. Reiterating his appeal, he said that the Government of India should make all possible efforts to end the war at the earliest, stressing that “the sooner it ends, the greater the benefit for humanity.” Framing the issue as a humanitarian crisis rather than a religious one, he said, “It is not any one religion that is being killed — it is humanity that is being killed.” He expressed confidence that the entire Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly would support any effort by India to play a meaningful role in bringing the conflict to an end.

Jammu, Mar 27: Ruling  National Conference (JKNC) legislators on Friday staged a protest inside the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly against the US-Israel war on Iran as the House convened for the ongoing Budget Session. The lawmakers, raised slogans, condemning the strikes on Iran and calling them a violation of international norms and an act of aggression. The legislators also held placards and briefly disrupted proceedings, demanding that the issue be acknowledged and discussed. They stated that the developments have hurt public sentiment in the region.

Srinagar, Mar 27: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader and Pulwama MLA Waheed-ur-Rehman Para on Friday urged for a comprehensive administrative restructuring of Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing that the creation of new divisions and districts is crucial for decentralised governance and improving accessibility for residents of remote areas. Talking to media persons Waheed Para clarified that the move is not politically motivated but aimed at enhancing administrative efficiency. “It is not a matter of dividing Jammu and Kashmir. The goal is to provide grassroots governance and decentralisation. Chenab is a distant region facing many difficulties. Establishing a division in Rajouri will benefit everyone,” he said.  Para proposed the formation of a Chenab Division and a Pir Panjal Division in Rajouri, along with new districts in areas such as Ashmukam to better coordinate yatra tourism. He also pointed out that towns like Sopore, Handwara, and Tral, which already have police districts, deserve full administrative recognition.  PDP leader added that if delimitation is required, the number of MLAs and Lok Sabha seats could be adjusted accordingly, stressing that the discussion is part of a long-term process focused on ensuring effective governance and grassroots administration in Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu, Mar 23: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday said a significant relaxation in Jammu and Kashmir's compassionate appointment policy has been adopted, extending job eligibility to families of government employees who died due to natural causes. Talking to reporters in Jammu, the LG said that 438 appointment letters have already been issued to next of kin (NoKs) under the government's support measures, many of them linked to families affected during the pandemic period. "For a long period of time, especially during the pandemic, a large number of people lost their lives. I am aware of their pain," he said He added that the administration was making efforts to reach out to such families. He said Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendents of Police have been directed to expedite pending cases by forwarding them to the General Administration Department (GAD) at the earliest, while ensuring that each case undergoes proper verification. "Every application is processed only after thorough verification and approval. We have to ensure that no ineligible person benefits from the scheme," he said. He highlighted the key policy shift and said that families of government employees who died natural deaths, earlier not covered under the norms, are now being included under the compassionate appointment framework after relaxation in rules. He described the initiative as an effort to provide relief to grieving families and "heal their wounds."

Over 200 Kashmiri students stuck at Azerbaijan border, face financial, health issues Srinagar, Mar 19: Amid ongoing evacuation efforts from Iran and neighbouring regions, anxious parents in Jammu and Kashmir have reiterated their demand for immediate intervention by authorities to facilitate the safe return of hundreds of stranded students, many of whom are facing severe financial and health challenges. As per the details more than 200 Indian students, primarily from Jammu and Kashmir and enrolled in universities in Isfahan and Golestan Province, have successfully crossed the Iran–Armenia border in what is being seen as a significant step forward in the evacuation process. Students who were earlier relocated from Tehran to Qom have now been moved towards the border points in Armenia and Azerbaijan. However, despite reaching these transit locations, many continue to face uncertainty due to a lack of financial resources. Parents allege that the students have been left to arrange their travel independently, placing a heavy financial burden on already distressed families. “We have been bearing all the expenses ourselves. The government must at least facilitate their return at this crucial time,” said one of the parents, expressing frustration over what they described as inadequate logistical support. Several batches of students are expected to return to India between March 20 and March 25, including those from Shiraz University. Indian engineering students from Kerman have also reached the Iran–Armenia border and are currently awaiting visa clearances. However, the situation remains grim at the Azerbaijan border, where over 100 Indian students are reportedly stranded due to procedural delays. Only around 6 to 10 students are being issued exit codes each day, which has significantly slowed down the evacuation process, the parents said. Many students have been stuck at the border since March 12, missing scheduled flights and incurring heavy financial losses. Parents claimed that around 250 Kashmiri students remain stuck at the Azerbaijan border, with several suffering from chest infections and influenza-like symptoms, while access to proper medical care remains limited. 151 Indian students managed to cross the Iran–Azerbaijan border in the last 24 hours. Some students with tickets for March 14, 18, 19, and 20 were allowed to cross, but those with bookings for March 15, 16, and 17 are still stranded. Despite some progress, the overall situation remains critical. Hundreds of students are still stranded at various border points, grappling with financial hardships, health risks, and uncertainty, as families continue to appeal for swift and comprehensive government intervention to ensure their safe return home. (KNO)