Assam, Feb 12: Leader of Opposition in the Jammu & Kashmir Legislative Assembly and BJP Election Co-incharge for Assam, Sunil Sharma, addressed a massive Mahila Sammelan in Silchar, energising party cadres and women supporters ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. According to a statement issued here, addressing the Sammelan, Sunil Sharma emphasized that women are no longer passive beneficiaries but decisive stakeholders in nation-building, asserting that their rising participation is strengthening democracy and reshaping India’s socio-economic landscape. The Modi government has empowered women with opportunities, confidence and respect, and the Union Budget further strengthens this resolve, he said. Sunil Sharma highlighted the pro people and women centric initiatives of the BJP led government, stating that the Union Budget reflects the party’s firm commitment to inclusive growth, women empowerment and economic development. He emphasized that women are playing a decisive role in strengthening democracy and driving social change across the country. Expressing strong confidence in the BJP’s prospects, Sunil Sharma said that the people of Assam, especially in the Barak Valley, are fully aware of the BJP’s development-oriented governance model, which has delivered stability, infrastructure growth, welfare benefits and transparent administration. He said that the party’s deep grassroots connect and performance-driven politics have earned the trust of every section of society. Sunil Sharma categorically declared that the Bharatiya Janata Party will form the government in Assam for the third consecutive term with an even bigger and historic mandate.  He said that the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the organisational strength of the BJP, and the tireless work of party workers have positioned the party for a resounding victory. Calling upon women to play a pivotal role, Sharma said that Mahila Shakti will be the backbone of BJP’s third victory in Assam, urging them to take the message of development, good governance and nationalism to every household. “The BJP’s victory in Assam is not just an electoral outcome, but a reaffirmation of the people’s faith in Modi ji’s policies and vision. The third term will mark a new chapter of accelerated growth and empowerment,” he added.

Srinagar, Feb 12: Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference on Thursday expressed concern over the continued detention of Doda MLA Mehraj Malik, who has been held under the Public Safety Act since September 2024, and called for a review of his case. Speaking to the media, a party spokesperson, citing party President Sajad Gani Lone, emphasized the importance of ensuring that elected representatives are able to fulfill their responsibilities to their constituents. "We believe that the situation requires careful and humane consideration, along with meaningful dialogue, to uphold democratic values and public trust," the spokesperson said, adding that the party continues to advocate for fair and transparent processes while appealing for his release so that justice is served to those who placed their trust in him and gave him their mandate. The spokesperson stressed that JKPC hopes for a prompt resolution that strikes a balance between legitimate concerns and the expectations of the people. "JKPC remains committed to democratic principles and looks forward to a positive outcome in this matter so that the people regain their rightful representation and the ideals of democracy can flourish," the statement reads.

Srinagar, Feb 8: Ruling party Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Baramulla constituency Javid Baig on Saturday defended Article 370 in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly saying that abrogation of the Article led to unrest and militancy in the J&K UT. He said that Article 370 was a bridge between J&K and the Government of India. He however engaged in a heated exchange with Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma who said that Special status did not exist in the constitution. “If anyone can show me the words special status in the Constitution of India, I am ready to face any punishment,” Sharma said amid noisy scenes in Assembly. MLA Baramulla Javed Hassan Baig however argued that Article 370 and Article 35A were constitutional guarantees that protected Jammu and Kashmir’s internal autonomy and dignity. “It was the erosion of these assurances that weakened trust and triggered alienation. That erosion, not Article 370, created the circumstances that later fuelled unrest and militancy,” he said. He asked the Opposition, including the Leader of the Opposition not to attribute decades of violence and suffering solely to the region’s constitutional position. “The people of Jammu and Kashmir paid the price for broken promises made through Acts of Parliament and the Constitution of India,” he said. During his speech, Baig also condemned rising polarisation and hatred, warning that communal narratives were deepening social divisions across the country. "It is a dangerous trend. Politics rooted in hate can yield nothing but alienation for Kashmir, Jammu and Ladakh alike," he said. Baig said that confrontations can only give bitterness, deprivation and a politics that divides instead of offering unity. “If someone says they hate me, the reason is obvious—I am Kashmiri and I am Muslim. Beyond that, there is no difference; we are all Indians,” he said. Referring to Budget, Baig countered the Opposition’s claims that Jammu and Kashmir was being “propped up” entirely by central funding. "Central grants were not unique to J&K but part of a national fiscal framework applicable to all states and Union Territories. The Centre’s share of tax devolution is 39 per cent across the country. Central Sponsored Schemes account for around 12 per cent, while J&K’s own tax collection stands at about 18 per cent and borrowing at 15 per cent,” he said. Baig said that J&K witnesses higher central spending because of its strategic location bordering China and Pakistan. “No one says the Centre is doing a favour when it invests in border infrastructure elsewhere. Why should J&K be taunted for the same?” he said. About the fragile economy of J&K, MLA Baramulla said the J&Ks dependence on tourism and horticulture made it highly vulnerable to political instability. "There is a need for sustained investment in education and human resource development. Discrimination against Kashmiri students and workers outside the UT would undermine economic integration. How can our youth prosper when they are viewed with suspicion and contempt in their own country," he said. Baig while referring to the remarks of Opposition MLAs on treasury benches, he said that politics of hatred will only push us towards further ruin. "Yesterday opposition MLAs said that ruling party MLAs are good for nothing but i must tell them that Ignorance is not the most dangerous thing but arrogance is," he said.

Srinagar, Feb 7: General Secretary Organization, Jammu & Kashmir BJP Ashok Koul Saturday addressed a massive public convention at Municipal Park, Ashajpora Bypass, Anantnag. In his address, he highlighted the commitment of the Bharatiya Janata Party towards development, good governance, and public welfare. The convention was also addressed by J&K BJP General Secretary Anwar Khan, District President Anantnag Rakesh Koul, Programme Incharge Abaid Hussain Nengroo, senior BJP leader Sofi Yousuf, and a large number of party workers and supporters. In his address, Ashok Koul launched a scathing attack on the National Conference government, stating that while the Modi-led Central Government continues to stand firmly with the people of Jammu & Kashmir, the NC regime has failed to deliver on its promises. “The Modi Government has provided ₹1430 crore as disaster relief assistance for Jammu & Kashmir to support distressed families affected by natural calamities. This reflects the sensitivity and commitment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi towards the people of this region,” Koul said. Ashok Koul further said that the recently presented Union Budget is a strong, public-friendly, and Viksit Bharat–oriented budget, aimed at empowering youth, farmers, women, and the poor, while strengthening infrastructure and economic growth. "In sharp contrast, the budget presented by the NC government in J&K is completely hollow, directionless, and devoid of any concrete roadmap for development or employment," he said. Later, at the BJP District Office Anantnag, Ashok Koul, along with Anwar Khan, Sofi Yousuf, and Rakesh Koul, addressed an organizational meeting of all district office bearers and constituency presidents, reviewing ongoing party programmes and future strategies. While addressing the meeting, Ashok Koul called upon party workers to remain disciplined, united, and dedicated to public service. He said that the BJP’s strength lies in its cadre-based organization. He said that every BJP activist must work tirelessly at the grassroots level to address public issues and strengthen people’s trust in the party. Speaking on the occasion, Anwar Khan said that BJP workers are the real ambassadors of the party’s ideology and governance model. Our focus is to ensure that the benefits of Central Government schemes reach every eligible person without discrimination, he said. Rakesh Koul assured that the Anantnag district unit is fully committed to strengthening the party at the booth level and serving the people with dedication and honesty.

Srinagar, Feb 2: J&K Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone on Monday submitted crucial amendments to the Lieutenant Governor's address concerning the safety of Kashmiris, regularisation of daily wagers and enhanced opportunities for civil service aspirants. According to business circulated by the Assembly Secretariat, Lone has proposed an amendment regretting the omission of condemnation regarding attacks on Kashmiri students, traders and hawkers in different states and Union Territories. Lone, who is the only opposition MLA from Kashmir to move amendments to the LG's address, has also sought the regularisation of daily wagers which remains a long-pending demand from contractual employees across Jammu and Kashmir. In a significant proposal for civil service aspirants, Lone has moved to enhance the age limit for open merit candidates appearing in the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Service (JKAS) examination from 32 to 37 years.  The amendment addresses concerns of youth who have faced disruptions and limited opportunities in recent years. The three amendments moved by MLA Handwara highlight key concerns affecting Kashmiris both within and outside the Union Territory that range from safety and dignity issues faced by the community in various states to employment security and expanded access to administrative services.

New Delhi, Jan 28: The first day of the Budget Session of Parliament witnessed a powerful and symbolic moment as Baramulla MP Er Rashid attended the House wearing the traditional pheran, carrying Kashmiri cultural identity into the nation’s highest democratic forum. The gesture stood out for its quiet resolve. Even amid confinement and constraints, the pheran reflected roots, dignity and an unbroken connection with Kashmir. Reacting to this, AIP Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi said, “A Kashmiri cultural identity preserved and carried into the House. MP Er Rashid attending Parliament in a pheran is not merely about attire, it is about dignity and self-respect. Even in confinement, his roots stand visible.” Inam added, “At a time when people were not allowed to enter the Civil Secretariat in pheran, it was Er Rashid who broke that barrier and asserted the right to wear our traditional attire. He also attended Assembly sessions in a pheran during his tenure as an MLA, making it clear that identity cannot be dictated or diluted.” Inam Un Nabi said Parliament must reflect the cultural diversity of India, and such expressions reaffirm that Kashmir’s voice, heritage and dignity continue to find space inside the Parliament of India.

Srinagar, Jan 22: Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party (JKAP) president Syed Muhammad Altaf Bukhari on Wednesday expressed serious concern over the outcome of the Civil Services (Judicial) Mains Examination. In a post on X, Altaf Bukhari alleged regional imbalance, lack of transparency and possible communal considerations in the selection process. Bukhari said that only 13 candidates from the Kashmir Valley were shortlisted for the viva voce stage out of a total of 124 candidates, while the remaining 111 candidates belong to the Jammu division. He described the figures as “deeply disturbing” and said they raise legitimate questions about the fairness of the evaluation process. He said that candidates from the Valley who failed to qualify have alleged serious irregularities and lack of transparency in the declaration of results. “Given the stark regional imbalance reflected in the shortlist, these concerns cannot be brushed aside and must be subjected to a fair and impartial investigation,” Altaf Bukhari said. Referring to the political climate in Jammu and Kashmir, the JKAP chief said that the situation is particularly worrying at a time when mistrust prevails between the two regions. He recalled that during the 2024 Assembly elections, political discourse was polarised along religious lines, with the BJP allegedly communalising politics in Jammu and the National Conference responding in a similar manner in the Valley. “While both parties may have gained electorally from this polarisation, the real cost was paid by the secular fabric and social harmony of Jammu and Kashmir,” he said. Bukhari alleged that such tendencies have continued beyond electoral politics and are now affecting institutions and merit-based processes. He cited the recent controversy surrounding the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence (SMVDIME), Katra, where, he claimed, the merit-based selection of MBBS students was communalised. He alleged that the revocation of permission for the MBBS course at SMVDIME, allegedly under political pressure, had harmed the larger public interest of Jammu and Kashmir and further deepened communal fault lines. Drawing a parallel, Bukhari said the outcome of the Civil Services (Judicial) Mains Examination also appears to be clouded by similar considerations, as reflected in the “disproportionate and highly skewed” shortlist. "At a time when mistrust prevails in both regions, the only responsible course is to keep the results in abeyance and initiate a transparent, independent inquiry," he said. Altaf Bukhari urged the J&K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to ensure that the results of the Civil Services (Judicial) Mains Examination remain on hold "until a fair and thorough inquiry is conducted."

Srinagar, Jan 21: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) on Wednesday launched an attack on PDP President Mehbooba Mufti over her recent demand for separate administrative arrangements for Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley. Inam Un Nabi said Mehbooba Mufti remained silent when she had the power to act. In a statement issued here, AIP Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi said Mehbooba Mufti chose inaction in power and now she is raising slogans for Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley. "Had she been sincere in demanding Divisional Commissioners for Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley, why didn’t she do it when she was the Chief Minister in the PDP-BJP government? She had power, authority and an alliance partner at the Centre, yet she chose silence and inaction," he said. He highlighted Er Rashid’s consistent stand and it was MP Baramulla Er Rashid who was pleading for two Hill Development Councils for Chenab Valley and Pir Panjal, as these areas require focused governance due to their difficult terrain, remoteness and decades of neglect. He added that Er Rashid not only raised the issue on public platforms but also pursued it institutionally. “Er Rashid brought a resolution in the J&K Assembly as well when he was an MLA, demanding two Hill Development Councils for Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley,” he said. Inam Un Nabi said the discourse around Jammu often ignores the realities of these regions. “Those who talk about separate statehood Jammu should understand that Jammu includes Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley, not just two and a half Jammu districts. Unfortunately, these regions have remained ignored on every front,” he said. Inam Un Nabi further alleged that leadership centred around Jammu district has historically sidelined these Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley areas. “Jammu district politicians have used Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley for political mileage, but failed to ensure fair development, genuine representation and equal opportunities for the people,” he added. AIP reiterated its demand for concrete and time-bound measures to address regional imbalance and ensure that Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley receive their rightful share in governance, resources and decision-making.

Jammu, Jan 21: Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party (SBSP) State President Vivek Bali on Wednesday criticized PDP Chief Mehbooba Mufti over her remarks on 1953 incident. Bali was referring to the statement of Mehbooba Mufti wherein she said “Those Who Divided Regions Questioning Us" while drawing parallels with 1953 and referred to the arrest of Sheikh Abdullah following his alleged support for the Dixon Plan. In an statement issued here, Vivek Bali along with his political advisor Dilawar Singh questioned Mehbooba Mufti’s intentions and political narrative, stating that such remarks were misleading and aimed at reviving old controversies for political gain. He asked why, during the tenure of the PDP-led government in Jammu and Kashmir, no concrete steps were taken to create separate districts in the Pir Panjal region or to appoint a dedicated Divisional Commissioner for the area. Bali said these demands were ignored when the PDP was in power, raising serious doubts about the sincerity of the party’s current claims. "We want a Jammu and Kashmir free from unnecessary interference. We believe in the unity of the region as it existed during the Maharaja’s time, and we do not support attempts to disturb that unity for narrow political interests,” Bali said. He accused Mehbooba Mufti of indulging in vote bank politics by repeatedly raising sensitive historical and regional issues instead of focusing on present-day development and public welfare. He added that the people of J&K do not support this kind of divisive politics and have repeatedly expressed their desire for unity, peace, and progress. “We do not want division. Any attempt to fragment Jammu and Kashmir on regional or political lines is against the wishes of the common people,” Bali said. Vivek Bali also made it clear that the Suheldev Bharatiya Samaj Party strongly opposes any forces or narratives that seek to divide Jammu and Kashmir into separate states or regions. He said SBSP stands firmly for the unity, integrity, and harmonious development of Jammu and Kashmir, and will continue to raise its voice against politics that promote division, confusion, and instability for personal or electoral gains.

Jammu, Jan 20: Former chief minister and president People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Mehbooba Mufti on Monday asked the National Conference to come out with a clear and unambiguous stand on the long-pending demand for divisional status for the Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley regions, saying the issue was rooted in administrative necessity and not political rhetoric. Addressing a press conference here, Mufti said the demand was “absolutely genuine” given the difficult terrain, fragile environment, far-flung habitations, and lack of adequate access to basic services in both regions. “Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley face serious administrative neglect. Their topography, vulnerability to environmental hazards, and distance from decision-making centres make divisional status the need of the hour,” she said. Mehbooba Mufti said that governance must reach people at their doorstep, especially in border and mountainous areas. Mufti accused both the National Conference and the BJP of being on the “same page” when it comes to criticising the PDP for raising the issue. "It is ironic that parties responsible for dividing regions for political convenience are questioning us for speaking up for the marginalised,” she said. Drawing a historical parallel and on making allegations against Mehbooba Mufti of supporting Dixons Plan she reminded NC president Farooq Abdullah, the PDP chief said that Sheikh Abdullah’s covert support for the Dixon Plan had led to his arrest in 1953. “Today, raising legitimate demands for Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley is once again being portrayed as divisive,” she said. She alleged that the BJP had weakened the political and administrative interests of the Pir Panjal region, and by extension Chenab Valley, under the guise of delimitation. “These decisions were taken to serve narrow electoral interests, not the welfare of the people,” Mufti said. Emphasising Jammu and Kashmir’s status as a border region, she said areas like Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley face compounded challenges. “Environmental risks, strategic vulnerabilities, and lack of infrastructure demand focused administrative attention,” she added. Mufti said governments must prioritise rights and dignity after securing votes. “Instead of addressing genuine grievances, the PDP is being targeted simply for raising the voice of those who have remained unheard for decades,” she said. She asserted that seeking divisional status for Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley was about fairness and governance. “This is not about politics. It is about administrative justice and equal opportunity,” Mufti said, adding that the PDP would continue to stand with the people of both regions.

Srinagar, Jan 19: Awami Itihaad Party (AIP)has welcomed former Chief Justice of India, Justice DY Chandrachud’s statement that Umar Khalid and Sharjeel Imam accused of instigating Delhi riots and languishing in jail since five years should have been released on bail. In a statement, AIP Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi said, “Ex-chief justice of India’s statement is a ray of hope for hundreds of Kashmiris languishing in jails since years together who have been booked under UAPA and their trials are undergoing at very nominal pace." He said that former CJI’s statement must act as a catalyst to wake up the conscience of judiciary and other institutions and all Kashmiri political prisoners should be released. “There is no justification to keep Engineer Rasheed two-time MLA and now an elected MP still in jail, who is about to complete seven years in Tihar," he said. He said that engineer Rasheed has been victimized only for his political belief and the fact is, current government has failed to silence him for speaking for the rights of people of Jammu and Kashmir. His continuous detention is murder of justice and democracy “It is constitutional and moral duty of the judiciary to free Engineer Rasheed from the Tihar jail, especially when former chief justice of India Justice DY Chandrachud has confessed that even few years  in detention violates the rights of a person like Shahjehan Muhammad Umar Khalid," he said.

Srinagar, Jan 13: The former chief minister of Jammu & Kashmir and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti on Tuesday said the "arbitrary terminations" in J&K have been dangerously normalised. "This isn’t just about the employee. Behind every termination is a family pushed into darkness a form of collective punishment with entire households condemned overnight by draconian Government of India (GOI) policies that mock the rule of law & discard due process," she said. "This normalisation of injustice must stop," her post on X reads. Her statement was in reaction to the termination of five government employees by the J&K Lieutenant Governor (LG). Earlier on Tuesday, the Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha ordered the dismissal of five government employees for their alleged links with proscribed militant organisations. Officials said the action was taken after investigations and intelligence inputs established their active association with terrorist outfits, misuse of official positions and continued involvement in terror-related activities, posing a serious threat to national security. Among those dismissed included Mohammad Yousf Kumar, a driver with the Health and Medical Education Department and a resident of Ganderbal, Farooq Ahmad Bhat, a Class-IV worker of the Forest Department from Anantnag, Tariq Ahmad Rah, a laboratory technician posted at SDH Bijbehara, Mohammad Ishfaq, a teacher from Bhaderwah in Doda district and Bashir Ahmad Mir, an Assistant Lineman in the Public Health Engineering Department from Gurez in Bandipora district.