Srinagar
Internet services have been suspended in south Kashmir’s Islamabad, Shopian following the killing of two militants in Islamabad and Shopian.
While the Islamabad gunfight ended with the killing of a Hizb militant, firing exchange continues between the forces and the militant at two village Kachdoora and Sugan villages in Shopian district.
Srinagar
Train services have been suspended in South Kashmir as a precautionary measure on Sunday following the killing of two militants during a gunfight between militants and government forces in two separate districts of south Kashmir.
“We have suspended train services in South Kashmir for security reasons,” a railway official said.
However, trains continued to chug on Srinagar-Budgam in central Kashmir to Baramulla in north Kashmir as per schedule, officials said.
A militant Rouf Bashir Khanday was killed and his associate Imran Rashid was arrested alive after a gunfight at Brunty Dialgam while two gunfights are going on at Dragad and Sugan where one militant was killed and three army men have been injured.
Srinagar
Gunfight rages in two separate villages of south Kashmir’s Shopian district on Sunday.
Official sources said that two encounters started late last night at Dragad village of Kachdora and Sugan. Army’s 44 RR, 3 RR, 34 RR, SOG, and CRPF are part of the operation at both the places.
Two army men were injured and one militant was killed at Dragad while another army man was injured at Sugan. All of them have been evacuated to military hospital.
Police sources said that at least five militants believed to be trapped in Dragad Kachdoora village of Shopian
However, militants have taken shelter in a house of an IPS officer of Sugan village currently posted outside.
Locals said there are two bodies in the compound of the house, though there was no official confirmation.
Army officials told Kashmir life one militant killed, operation underway.
SSP Shopian Shriram Ambarkar said that nothing can be said except that encounters are going on at two places (Dragad village and Sugan village).
Srinagar
A militant was killed and another was “apprehended” alive in an overnight gunfight at Dialgam village of Islamabad district on Sunday
SSP Islamabad Altaf Khan said that a joint team of police, army’s 19 and CRPF launched a cordon at Brunty Dialgam village during the intervening night of March 31/ April 1.
As the joint team approached the suspected spot, the hiding militants opened fire and triggering off an encounter, SSP said.
“One militant Rouf Bashir Khanday was killed and another militant Imran Rashid has been captured alive during the operation,” SSP said.
Rouf Ahmad Khanday Son of Bashir Ahmad Khanday, a resident of Dehruna village of Dooru Islamabad had announced his joining Hizb ul Mujahideen and his photographs wielding Ak 47 went viral in last week of March. The photograph had his code name Umar Hayat and joining “active date” 4/02/2018.
The picture also depicted that he was a graduate (B.A) and 15 chapters (Paras) of Quran ‘Hafiz’.
Official sources said that Imran surrendered amid the operation.
Srinagar
The government on Saturday has engaged Asia Sidiqi, as Director, Jammu and Kashmir Institute of Mathematical Science (JKIMS) Srinagar.
“In the interest of administration and to facilitate smooth functioning of newly established Jammu and Kashmir Institute of Mathematical Sciences (JKIMS), Srinagar, sanction is hereby accorded to the engagement of Ms Asiya Sidiqi I/C Director, JKIMS, who is retiring on superannuation on 31 03 2018, , as director JKIMS for a period of two years w e f, 01 04 2018, with the terms and conditions applicable to such engagements issued by the govt time to time,” reads an order.”
The order further reads that “Issued with the prior approval of chairperson, Executive Council (JKIMS) Hon’ble Chief Minister JK.”
Srinagar
A massive fire broke out in Sonawar area of Srinagar on Saturday evening.
However, the fire tenders were rushed to the spot to douse the flames, he said.
The official added that cause of the fire is yet ascertained.
Further details emerging.
by Tahir Bhat/ Faheem Mir
SRINAGAR: A south Kashmir girl student has got admission in one of the top universities in the world. Her studies in mechanical engineering would be funded by a scholarship.
Making parents proud Adeeba has created history, at least for Shopian, as UPenn will fund her studies completely. She will be pursuing her bachelor’s in mechanical engineering for the next four years.
UPenn is one of the prestigious universities of the West. It boasts of producing 30 Nobel laureates, 25 billionaires – the most by any University at the undergraduate level, and a significant number of Fortune 500 CEOs.
Born in a modest family Adeeba was a very bright student since childhood. The environment in the family helped her achieve academic goals. Her father Noushad Qeysar Tak is an official in State Forest Corporation (SFC) and her mother Laila Gulshan is a housewife. Her elder sister is pursuing MBBS in Decca.
In 2017, Adeeba visited Delhi to attend a workshop on her subject of interest. “It was a great experience to attend such workshop that helped me in my preparations,” Adeeba said on phone from her Shopian home. “My parents and teachers supported always, it is all because of them that I will have the opportunity in studying in one of the world’s best academic campuses.”
“I used to prepare for exams for 9 hours a day,” she said.
After passing her matriculation from Shah-e-Hamadan High School Shopian, she got admission in Greenland Higher Secondary School Shopian with Science subjects.
After passing her twelfth with flying colours, Adeeba obtained 477 marks. She eventually got selected for the course in the American University, “I came to know about UPenn in my twelfth class when teachers informed the class about the possibilities of studying abroad,” she added.
Earlier after her matriculation, Adeeba was hand-picked by RiSE, a group of coaching institutes in 2015, when she topped the first edition of their talent search examination. Over the past two years, Adeeba has consistently worked hard to achieve her childhood dream of becoming an aeronautical engineer.
“We are confident that Adeeba with her never let go attitude and humility will make the most of her time at UPenn and will scale unprecedented heights,” the RiSE wrote in a congratulatory message on their Facebook page “She is an inspiration for all of us, especially for new generations. Best wishes.”
Srinagar
Chief Minister, Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday stressed the need for a multilevel engagement to sort out issues in Jammu and Kashmir. She appealed members of Kashmiri Pandit community to return back home taking it as a call from the motherland.
CM Mehbooba Mufti
The spokesman said that while addressing a gathering of Kashmiri Pandits here today, the Chief Minister said given the tough times Jammu and Kashmir is passing through it needs the reconciliatory approach at all levels to sort out issues as acrimony does not lead anywhere. She said wars, as in the past, are no solution to any problem given the quantum of destruction these are supposed to bring.
This is for the first time since their migration some three decades ago, the Chief Minister conducted an outreach programme of this kind at New Delhi to listen to the problems of Kashmiri Pandit migrants at their own place.
Mehbooba Mufti reminded the audience the soothing change this approach of rapprochement brought in the State when her Party’s Government took over in 2002. “Routes were opened, talks held and even many of you returned back because these peace efforts resulted into a consequent dip in violence in the State”, she told the gathering.
The policy of rapprochement, the Chief Minister said, as adopted by the then Prime Minister, Atal Bihari Vajpayee needs to be kept alive and taken forward. Reconciliation, and not acrimony, is the way ahead, she said while advocating opening of historic routes across Jammu & Kashmir so that the State becomes a gateway to Central Asia as it used to be in the past. “An idea has to be replaced with a better idea. Why can’t the Sharda Peth, which has been an ancient seat of learning, be thrown open to people. Why can’t our country, using our locational advantage, take benefit of all economic activities going on in the region to embark on a new path of progress, equity and peace. Wars and acrimony only add up scars but the peaceful engagements bring home the much-needed healing”, she said in her address.
The Chief Minister said Kashmir without Kashmiri Pandits is as incomplete as are Kashmiri Pandits without Kashmir. She said the joint ethos and cultural moorings of Kashmiri Muslims and Pandits even the passage of time could not erase as these are something unique in the present day world.
Describing the plea for their return back to Kashmir as a call from the motherland, Mehbooba Mufti told the gathering to respond to it as someone who responds to the cries of her mother in pain. “You may say that many of you are now settled outside, some of them with good corporate packages. But I would say its a call from your motherland-Mouj Kashir-who asks you to come back and help in restoring back the social order which got disturbed with your unfortunate migration”, she told the gathering while making an emotional appeal for their return back.
“Don’t wait for the return of ideal conditions, we have to create these jointly”, she told the gathering. “Your Muslim brethren are fighting a situation there, come back and let us fight shoulder to shoulder”, she said adding while the members of Pandit community had to leave their homes, unfortunately, their Muslim brethren suffered equally with deaths and destruction.
The Chief Minister said that though the successive Governments in Jammu & Kashmir did a lot for the rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandit migrant community it cannot match the return back to their homes and hearths which she said is the earnest desire of every Kashmiri Muslim. She said her Government, acknowledging the role of Kashmiri Pandit families who stayed in Kashmir but got forgotten in the discourse, decided to reserve some posts for them in recruitment process so that they don’t feel left out.
Responding to the demands raised by several members of the community, Mehbooba Mufti said she would get the issues of difficulty in the registration of migrants and their state subject issues looked into and if need be post an officer at New Delhi for the purpose. She also assured to look into the issues of medical insurance, hike in monthly relief and distant posting of some female staff at JK Bank New Delhi.
The Chief Minister invited the young children of Kashmiri Pandits to visit Kashmir so that they can get familiarised with the land they belong to and where their parents were born and brought up. She said whatever arrangements need to be done would be made by her Government.
Former Deputy Speaker of Legislative Assembly and Vice President PDP, Muhammad Sartaj Madni also addressed the gathering and recalled the cherished relations between Muslims and Pandits in Kashmir. He also highlighted the need for frequent interactions between the members of two communities so that the bond of amity is shifted to the younger generation.
Srinagar
Few gunshots were heard near Ladi area of south Kashmir’s Shopian district on Saturday evening, locals said.
Reports said that the gunshots created the panic among the residents.
However, a police official confirmed the incident, adding that “We are verifying what exactly has happened,” he said.
Srinagar
A wreath-laying ceremony led was held at Pulwama to pay homage to the slain SPO Mohammad Ashraf Mir resident of Mouchpona, Pulwama Imtiyaz Ahmad, a resident of Palpora Noorbagh, at present was residing at Chanapora, Srinagar, police spokesman said.
Ashraf, police said was killed by some unknown militants when they fired upon him near Muran Chowk Pulwama.
Wreath laying ceremony of slain SPO Mohammad Ashraf held at Pulwama (Image: PCR)
Sources said that Ashraf, a former militant was working as an SPO in Cargo, Srinagar and at present was residing at Chanapora in Srinagar.
Police has registered a case in this regard and investigations set into motion.
Srinagar
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, on Saturday, while reiterating that her government was committed to ‘honourable return’ of Kashmiri Pandits, said that Kashmir belongs to them as much as it does to any other community.
Mehbooba Mufti with Kashmiri Pandits
“We are committed to the honourable return of Kashmiri Pandits to the valley with dignity. Kashmir belongs to them as much as it does to any other community. They are an enduring symbol of J&K’s composite culture and syncretic identity,” Mehbooba Tweeted.
“Today I seek a sustained process of reconciliation between all groups & communities in J&K. In their Peace lies the future of peace in J&K. 2/2,” she Tweeted.
Srinagar
Ladakh bagged “best Adventure Tourism Destination” award at the Outlook Traveller Awards 2018 (OLT Awards) function held in New Delhi.
The Director said camping, double hump camel rides and traditional sports of horse polo and archery also attract adventure enthusiast from across the world.
The department organized Kargil road show twice in the last year to highlight the potential of the region among adventure travellers.
The Director said owing to department’s vigorous promotional campaign, Ladakh received a record number of over 2.77 lakh tourists last year.
“We have been organising festivals and adventure sports activities both in Kargil and Leh to make the destination popular among the visitors especially adventure travel enthusiasts. Many travellers visit the places in Ladakh on motorbikes and on MTBs,” he said.
“We are hopeful to witness increased footfall this year and surpass last year’s record arrivals.”
The director said the tourism department also organized adventure race ‘India Expedition’ in September 2017 followed by Leh Festival which showcased the adventure potential of the region across the globe.
“The new road reduces journey between two places considerably and encourages the travellers to visit Pangong Lake through Shayok River,” said Director Tourism.
To give a better experience of the Leh market to the visitors, the department also developed and pedestrianized the market beautifully.
The department under various schemes also supported the local stakeholder for construction and up-gradation of hotel and guest houses to increase the bed capacity in Ladakh in view of the increased tourist’s footfall to the cold desert.
Srinagar
Independent lawmaker and MLA Langate Er Rasheed has expressed surprise over BJP’s statement that allowing pro-resistance leaders free movement is a confidence-building measure and has said that the decision to allow Geelani Sahab to offer prayers after eight years speaks volumes about New Delhi’s confusing mindset and level of oppression.
The spokesman said that while addressing a party function in Langate on Saturday Er Rasheed said “The decision to allow Geelani and others to carry out their political activities should not be seen as a concession or a favour to Kashmiris but an admission that New Delhi has been ruthlessly suppressing the political peaceful voice in Kashmir.
The decision is itself a moral victory of masses in general and pro-resistance leaders in particular as those who were asking saner voices to be thrown to Pakistan have finally realized that Kashmir issue needs a political resolution and anyone who seeks ‘Right to Self Determination’ deserves to be heard and confronted politically with arguments and logic, Er Rasheed said.
“Allowing Geelani Sahab to offer Friday prayers after eight years has exposed the propaganda being carried out by National Media that Hurriyat leaders have no relevance and lack a popular support base in Jammu & Kashmir. If Govt. will allow all those forces seeking sincerely a resolution to Kashmir dispute to carry out their political activities it will come to know that majority of people in Jammu and Ladakh regions have a deep desire for resolution of Kashmir dispute,” Er Rasheed added.
Er Rasheed appealed Delhi to come out of confusions and take bold initiatives for resolution of Kashmir issue rather going for symbolic and cosmetic measures. He said “The policy of maintaining status-quo will ultimately harm New Delhi more than Kashmiris as pushing every Kashmiri to the wall creates a political vacuum and sense of hopelessness. Despite many drawbacks and questions marks pro-resistance leadership represents sentiments, aspirations and sacrifices of almost every Kashmiri and any effort to undermine the space and role of pro-resistance leadership will never help.”
“Let Delhi not forget that even the Israel the worst state inflicting atrocities on Palestinians and carrying their genocide has been wise enough to give political space to Palestinians and even holding direct and indirect talks with various Palestinian groups. Once New Delhi gives up arrogance and takes concrete and meaningful steps for a durable resolution to Kashmir dispute in Light of UN resolutions, it will take no time to those who are being called radicals and abused on daily basis to come forward and become part of the political process and contribute on principals of justice and mutual respect,”Er Rasheed said.
Er Rasheed appealed masses not to make their own interpretation and not to listen to the false propaganda by anti-Kashmiri forces trying to portray the decision of relaxing curbs on Hurriyat leaders.
He added that “while the real test for state begins now whether it keeps its promise, masses need to understand that Delhi is running short of options and the step through in the right direction is too little and too late.”
Srinagar
Hurriyat chairman (M) Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Saturday visited the Budgair Aali Kadal area of downtown where a deadly blaze left dozens of residential houses badly damaged.
Mirwaiz visited fire victims of Aali Kadal
Expressing shock and grief over the damage of worth crores of rupees caused by the blaze, Mirwaiz stressed on the immediate rehabilitation of all the fire victims.
Mirwaiz expressed his sympathy with the affected families and assured them all the possible help through Daarul Khair institution.
Speaking on the occasion, Mirwaiz said natural calamities can’t be prevented and that we should remain steadfast on such occasions and tie our hope with Almighty Allah. He urged well-off families of Kashmir especially downtown to come forward and to help the fire victims of Aali Kadal.
Many residents complained to Mirwaiz that the area housed a full-fledged fire station since past many decades but the same was shifted without any justification by the government and the vast area is without an emergency fire station now which poses a big threat to entire area which has congested residential structures. The locals also told Mirwaiz that the Government’s all the claims of decongesting the area and widening the road have proved to be hollow.
Mirwaiz also visited the residence of Moulana Masroor Abbas Ansari who recently returned from New Delhi after undergoing a sensitive liver transplant surgery. Mirwaiz inquired about the well being of Masroor Abbas and wished him a speedy recovery.
Meanwhile, APHC paid glorious tributes to frontline freedom fighter Shaheed Ashfaq Majeed Wani on his 28th martyrdom anniversary stating that Wani was a braveheart, educated and a committed person who spent his entire life for the great and sacred cause of Kashmir’s freedom despite facing tough situations. The APHC said that Wani remained steadfast and didn’t compromise on his principles.
The Hurriyat in a statement said, “hundreds and thousands of people have sacrificed their lives for a great cause and its the primary responsibility of people and Leadership to safeguard and to take the mission of martyrs forward.”
Srinagar
Hurriyat chairman Syed Ali Geelani on Saturday while criticizing the authorities, said that silence maintained by them over Asifa murder and rape case is very sad and painful and add that it seems when it comes to the people of Kashmir all decide to turn a blind eye. Geelani expressed shock over the slow pace proceedings in Kathua girl murder and rape case, saying attempts are being made to shelve the case likewise that of Asifa Nilofer double murder case.
Terming the murder and rape of innocent Asifa the most reprehensible crime against humanity, Syed Ali Geelani said that it is shocking and very unfortunate that even judiciary is working under the influence of these bigoted minded people and instead of taking cognizance, acting as a mute spectator.
Referring to Damni murder and rape incident, Syed Ali Geelani said that the gruesome murder and rape of the girl sparked outrage in whole India, however contrary to this and as usual no justice was ever done in Asifa murder case and the perpetrators are being supported by communal factions and authorities showing a lenient view.
Geelani said the evil act of raping a child is the most abhorrent act against all humanity. The beasts who did it, not only raped 8-year-old little Asifa they drugged her and killed her and even though the state administration and judiciary remained unmoved and as usual followed their insincere dogma.
The murder of the eight-year-old girl had saddened him, Geelani said and while demanding capital punishment for accused, he in his appeal to all peace and justice loving people of the state and particularly Jammu, activists & humanists to stand with humanity and justice.
No sin is ever justifiable, Geelani said and lashing authorities, added that in civilised societies those sharing power corridors feel accountable to protect rights of people against the violence and provide protection to the victims, saying it is a moral duty for authorities to protect rights of people and there is precedence that rulers even resign from their responsibilities if they fail to deliver their duties, said Geelani and added situations are quite contrary and authorities instead, even support such beastliness for gaining political dividends.
Appealing international human rights organisation for their cognizance, Syed Ali Geelani asked to look into the grave incident and put up the case with International Court of Justice to deliver speedy justice to the affected nomadic family.
Srinagar
Jammu and Kashmir Bank gave a warm sendoff to Vice President Arvind Gupta, who achieved superannuation on Saturday, here at Corporate Headquarters.
At the farewell, Chairman and CEO Parvez Ahmed presented a bouquet and a memento to the outgoing officer and appreciated his role in different capacities throughout his 36 years long tenure.
Speaking on the occasion, Parvez Ahmed said, “This day has come after Arvind Ji’s 36 years of dedicated service in the Bank. Bangalore, Delhi, whole Jammu and Udhampur have seen young Arvind and the most mature part has been witnessed at Srinagar. A man from and for operations has worn all operational hats from beginner to passing officer to Branch Head and finally to the Zonal Head.”
“He has been a great support all these years. I wish him all the Best in his long life from now on”, he added.
Chairman wished Peace, progress, prosperity and healthy long life post-retirement to Arvind and all those officers who retired from the services of the Bank today and in the recent past.
”I feel both, very sad and honored at this moment. Sad to leave this great organization and part Company of some of the best people I happened to be with; and honoured to be part of the same organization for all these years”, said Arvind Gupta on the occasion.
“I will cherish all the years I have served here for the rest of my life. I thank all of you for your kind support and love”, he added.
Arvind Gupta joined J&K Bank as Probationary Officer in 1982. During his tenure, he headed various departments including Banking Operations and Business Support Division.
Srinagar
The Government on Saturday ordered promotions, transfers and posting of Chief Engineers in the Public Works Department.
According to a government order issued in this regard, consequent upon superannuation of Abdul Hamid, I/C Development Commissioner Works in PWD, Satish Razdan, I/C Chief Engineer (Civil), Economic Reconstruction Agency (ERA) has been posted as I/C Development Commissioner Works.
Similarly, consequent upon superannuation of Bimal Tickoo, Secretary Technical, Public Works Department, P L Bushan, Chief Engineer Mughal Road Project has been placed as Secretary Technical in PWD.
The Government has also ordered placement of five Superintending Engineers (Civil) as I/C Chief Engineers in PWD. They include Devinder Kumar Khanna, Ghulam Jeelani, Showkat Ahmad Wani, Romesh Kumar Makroo and Syed Iqbal Aga.
Consequent upon these promotions, Nisar Ahmad Bhat I/C Chief Engineer SKUAST Kashmir has been placed as I/C Chief Engineer PWD (R&B) Kashmir.
Devinder Kumar Khanna has been placed as I/C Chief Engineer Mughal Road Project vice P L Bushan.
Ghulam Jeelani has been placed as I/C Chief Engineer PMGSY Kashmir against an available vacancy.
Showkat Ahmad Wani has been placed as I/C Chief Engineer Economic Reconstruction Agency (ERA) vice Satish Razdan.
Romesh Kumar Makroo, I/C Chief Engineer has been placed as Executive Director, J&K Projects Construction Corporation Ltd.
Syed Iqbal Aga has been placed as I/C Chief Engineer SKUAST Kashmir.
SRINAGAR: In J&K State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) may continue sending notices to the state government to help psychologically rehabilitate the shawl-maker Farooq Dar, who was tied to a bonnet of the jeep by an army major, minutes after he cast his vote. But the incident of the human shield is being celebrated as an act of valour and patriotism.
Last week, it was a T-shirt that was in news for the same reason. This time, it is a major action film Baaghi-2 that almost starts with the scene in which the lead role takes a human shield. Tiger Shroff plays the lead role of the army officer Ranveer Pratap Singh in the film.
Tiger Shroff in the first poster of his upcoming Bollywood movie Baaghi
In the Sajid Nadiadwala film, an army officer is seen using a man in Kashmir, possibly a militant or a stone pelter, as a human shield, tying him to the hood of his jeep to protect himself from an angry crowd.
This is exactly what Major Nitin Leetul Gogoi of the 53-Rashtriya Rifles on April 9, 2017, with Farooq dar, minutes after he had cast his vote in a Lok Sabha election that sent Dr Farooq Abdullah to the Lok Sabha. After Farooq was set free, it created a fierce debate within the civil society and even the armed forces. Despite scathing criticism of the action, the Army honoured Gogoi for his efforts in the counter-insurgency operations. Even the political establishment supported the Major.
It was after many days when Dar was admitted to the hospital for the severe psychological crisis that the SHRC took up the case. It finally directed the state government to pay Dar compensation, which the state government refused saying neither of its agency was involved in the human shield making. Police had registered an FIR but it was not immediately known if the investigations were completed or not.
The film has been adversely commented for the distasteful display of a patriotism.
“After the opening sequence, in which Neha (Disha Patani) is badly beaten and left by the side of the road by carjackers, the action shifts to Kashmir and army officer Ranveer Pratap Singh (Tiger Shroff) thrashing militants—or is it stone-pelters?—in the snow,” Udhai Bhatia reviled in the Mint newspaper. “The next scene shows him using one of these men as a human shield, tied to the hood of his jeep to protect him from an angry crowd. Irrespective of where you stand on the moral implications of such an action (which mirrors an actual incident that took place last year in Kashmir), it takes a certain amped-up, dumbed-down outlook to appropriate it with so much glee.”
“When we meet the film’s hero – the aforementioned indiscreet stalker – he is an Army Commando in Kashmir who ties a man to the front of his jeep and uses him as a human shield,” read Raja Sen’s review of the film on NDTV. “Wow. It is the kind of thing I expected Hindi cinema to tackle at some point, but not in a Tiger Shroff film where his reasoning for this inhumanity is that somebody burned the Indian flag.”
Srinagar
After waiting 24 years for her husband, Dilshada Sheikh, the member of Association of Parents of Disappeared Persons (APDP) since 2010, passed away on Saturday morning.
The APDP spokesman said that Dilshada was an active member with APDP since 2010, who would regularly participate in the monthly sit-ins at Partap Park. Her dedication to the cause of enforced disappearances remained undeterred till her last breath.
“Even though her search for her disappeared husband remains unfulfilled, we the Association of Parents of Disappeared Persons (APDP), pledge to carry on with her unresolved search for her husband on her behalf and take it forward to its fruitful end,” the spokesman said.
The spokesman said that “the struggle against the enforced disappearances in Kashmir has been led by APDP since 1994. Since then, APDP has lost the family members of some of the victims of enforced disappearances due to death, who fought for their loved ones and kept their struggle alive until their last breath with dignity. We have lost Moghal Maas, mother of Nazir Ahmad Teli who was a single mother and kept her search alive for her son till her last breath; Misra Begum, mother of Shabir Ahmad Ghasi; AbdurRazaq Dar, father of Mehrajuddin Dar, and many others.”
Association of Parents of Disappeared Persons is a socio-political movement against Enforced Disappearances in Kashmir since 1989. APDP is dedicated to provide for as well as fight on behalf of the families of the victims of Enforced Disappearances in Kashmir, said a statement.
Srinagar
National Conference General Secretary Haji Ali Muhammad Sagar on Saturday asked both India and Pakistan to shun their differences and initiate result-oriented talks on Kashmir.
Addressing a one-day convention of Block Habba Kadal, Sagar rued the non-seriousness exhibited by BJP led government at the centre. “In spite of having a clear majority in the parliament, PM Modi and his party BJP has failed to deliver on the ground when it comes to changing the current narrative on Kashmir. He has the power to bring all the stakeholders on board and effectively deal with the situation but nothing much is coming out of his kitty. We expected a statesmanship approach from him,” he said.
The NC General Secretary expressed dismay at the recurrent border shelling. He said, “The frequent LoC, IB skirmishes between the two neighbours have never yielded anything other than killing innocents on both sides. It’s, therefore, time for an end to hostility between India and Pakistan. Both countries should sit across the table and resolve their differences peacefully.”
“Both the countries need to understand that we are the basic sufferers of the conflict and any attempt made by the two countries to end hostility will be warmly welcomed by National Conference which has always been an advocate of dialogue,” Sagar said.
Party Vice-President Chaudhary Mohammad Ramzan while speaking at the convention made an impassioned plea to both Indian and Pakistani PMs. He said, “Ever since the partition of Indian sub-continent, people of Jammu and Kashmir have been the worst victims of the hostility between India and Pakistan. It is time that the leadership of both the countries realize this and show empathy towards people of the state.”
Urging the prime ministers of both India and Pakistan to resolve all long pending issues senior NC leader said, “Both countries should now move ahead and stop blaming each other. The blame game will not yield anything. It will only create bitterness in the relations.”
Shamima Firdous who was moderating the convention attacked the PDP BJP government for its abject failure on political as well as governance front. “The people of the state are fed up with this set up where the real power doesn’t flow from the chair of the CM but comes from those who are sitting hundreds of miles away from Srinagar. Mehbooba Mufti has been relegated to just a rubber stamp CM,” she said.
“The situation in Kashmir is akin to 90’s now. Every day there is news of killings but the government seems hardly moved by such incidents. In fact, BJP has taken a dangerous recourse wherein they are plotting to attack the states special status through different means. And PDP happens to be a mute spectator in all this,” Shamima said while asking people to remain steadfast and defeat the evil designs of the right-wing party.
Among others who spoke on the occasion include District President Srinagar Peer Afaq Ahmad and other party functionaries.
Srinagar
Kashmiri photojournalist Dar Yasin, who works with Associated Press (AP), has won ‘Best of Photojournalism awards’ (BOP) for his coverage on the exodus of Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar.
Dar Yasin
According to the BOP website, Dar won the first prize in international news for his picture of dead Rohingya children after their boat capsized while fleeing the violence in Myanmar, and 2nd prize for the story on the exodus of Rohingya Muslims.
Renowned as “the contest designed for photojournalists by photojournalists,” NPPA’s Best of Photojournalism competition annually attracts the most talented professionals in four divisions – still, video, multimedia and editing.
Earlier, Dar with a team of eight photojournalists from AP from Overseas Press Club ’s won “Hal Boyle Award” for the best newspaper, news service or digital reporting from abroad, for their reporting on the exodus of Rohingya Muslims from Myanmar.
Srinagar
A team of doctors in the Department of Plastic Surgery at Srinagar’s SKIMS hospital on Saturday performed hand re-implantation surgery of a three-year-old child.
The spokesman said surgeons re-implanted three digits of the hand of a three-year-old child whose hand had got stuck in the wheel of a motorcycle. In a 14 hour surgery, the team of surgeons was able to re-implant all the three digits of the child.
Patient’s hand
Usually, small children are a challenge for these kinds of surgeries as the vessel size and tissues are very delicate and small but all this becomes possible by proper expertise and the availability of high-end equipment like operating microscopes, micro instruments and delicate sutures, said a spokesman.
The doctors who conducted surgery successfully included Dr Mir Mohsin, Dr Haroon under the supervision of the head of the department Dr AdilHafeez.
Re-Implantation surgery of a hand is a challenging world over, as the hand is one of the primary organs to function in the body. Loss of hand can lead to a severe disability as well as loss of earning capacity of an individual, he added.
Srinagar
Unidentified gunmen shot dead a Special police officer (SPO) in Murran chowk area of Pulwama district of south Kashmir.
The deceased was identified as Special police official (SPO) Mohammad Ashraf resident Machpona area of Pulwama.
Official sources said that the injured was referred to District Hospital Pulwama where he succumbed, they said adding a massive hunt has been launched to nab the attackers.
Srinagar
Unidentified gunmen shot at and wounded a person in Murran chowk area of Pulwama district of south Kashmir.
The injured was identified as Mohammad Ashraf resident Machpona area of Pulwama.
Official sources said that the injured was admitted to District Hospital, they said adding a massive hunt has been launched to nab the attackers.
Srinagar
A massive fire broke out in Nowpora area of Srinagar on Saturday afternoon.
However, the fire tenders were rushed to the spot to douse the flames, he said.
The official added that cause of the fire is yet ascertained.
Further details emerging.
Srinagar
The Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday said that forest department and volunteers are working tirelessly to douse the forest fire in different districts of Kashmir.
“Forest department & volunteers are working tirelessly to douse the forest fire in Bandipora, Kangan, Anantnag & other affected areas. They have succeeding in partially extinguishing it. All departments are on high alert to make sure that the situation is brought under control,” Mehbooba Tweeted.
Pertinent to mention, forest fires were reported from several districts of Kashmir from last week.
Srinagar
Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) on Saturday organised a blood donation camp on eve of 26th death anniversary of Dr Abdul Ahad Guru.
JKLF blood donation camp at Srinagar.
A JKLF spokesman said that the blood donation camp was organized at the party headquarters at Abi Guzar in Srinagar.
He said that a blood donation camp was organized at Abi Guzar Srinagar under the banner of Hameed blood bank. JKLF chairman Muhammad Yasin Malik was also present on the occasion.
Guru was an exceptional person who not only left his mark on medical, political and religious fronts but worked relentlessly on social fronts through his philanthropic works. JKLF chairman said that people like Shaheed-I-Hikmat doctor Guru are crown of nations and personalities like these stand as a symbol of glory for the living nations. He said that doctor Guru from his birth on 24 November 1939 ‘showed the characteristics’ of a Godly person and today more than two decades after his martyrdom, Kashmir is yet to produce anyone like him, said a spokesman.
Doctor Guru was first Kashmiri Muslim Doctor in Kashmir who started open heart surgery in Kashmir and wrote a new chapter in the medical history of this poor nation.
Srinagar
A 15-year-old handicapped boy was killed in a road mishap at Tikipora area of Lolab in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district on Saturday afternoon.
Official sources said that the boy Shahid Ahmad Naikoo son of Ghulam Mohammad Naikoo of Naik Mohalla Takipora was injured critically after hit by a speedy vehicle (tipper) near Jamia Masjid in the area.
The teenage handicapped boy was immediately taken to a nearby primary health centre where doctors declared him brought dead, they said.
A police officer concerned confirmed the incident told news agency GNS that the driver was arrested and the vehicle has been seized.
“A case under relevant sections of law has been registered and further investigations initiated,” the officer said. (GNS)
Srinagar
Jammu and Kashmir Police on Saturday claimed to have solved a kidnapping case of a girl in shortest possible time and arrested the accused involved in the crime.
A police spokesman said in a statement that Islamabad police has recovered a kidnapped girl and arrested the accused involved in the crime.
“One person (name withheld) resident of Mattan approached Police Station Mattan with a written complaint, wherein it was stated that his niece (name withheld) has been kidnapped by one person namely Ishfaq Ahmad Kumar son of Gul Mohammed Kumar resident of Hogam Mattan,” the spokesman said.
A case FIR number 21/2018 under section 363-RPC was registered in Police Station Mattan and investigation was started, the spokesman added.
“After hectic efforts, the said girl was recovered from Hogam area of District Islamabad and the accused person was arrested,” he added.
After completion of legal formalities, the girl was handed over to her family members, the spokesman said.
Srinagar
Fire broke out in Nowroz Baba forests of Tangmarg division late Friday. A fire broke out in compartment number 25 of Pathribal forests in the lower reaches of Pir Panjal mountain range in Nowroz Baba, turning many trees into ashes, reports said.
“We are on the job since last evening and the fire has almost been brought under control. I was personally monitoring the dousing process,” said Divisional Forest Officer Tangmarg.
“Forests in Kashmir are burning continuously from last two days in Six Districts. Bandipora, Kangan (Wangath), Islamabad, Srinagar, Kupwara (Zagipora) and Budgam (Nowrozbaba Khag). We have very thin forest cover left, now but unfortunately we are losing it with every passing day,” Journalist Rifat Abdullah wrote on his Facebook profile.
The forest department has not been able to douse the flames in time due to which fire spread to a vast area.
Srinagar
Clashes broke out between the protestors and government forces over nocturnal raids conducted by government forces on Saturday.
Reports said people of the area hit the streets on Saturday morning to demand the release of arrested persons. The protesters also blocked the Soura road, hampered the traffic movement for hours.
An official from the police department confirmed the incident, adding that they have arrested one youth from the area.
Srinagar
After facing a for month closure triggered by snow, the Mughal Road which connects Kashmir valley with Jammu region as an alternate route through Shopian and Poonch, Rajouri districts has been thrown open for one-way traffic on Saturday.
The historic road connecting Shopian with Pir Panjal region is the shortest fair-weather route to the valley.
Meanwhile, traffic was also resumed on the road, linking dozens of far-flung and remote areas, including those near the Line of Control (LoC), including border town of Gurez, with district headquarters Bandipora after over three months.
The Srinagar-Leh national highway remained closed since December last year through snow clearance operation has been completed.
”We have allowed traffic on the historic Mughal road from Saturday,” a traffic police official told.
Srinagar
Students of Delhi Public School (DPS) Athwajan have bagged medals in the recently held in National Thang-Ta Martial art event at Haryana.
“The students had been trained under the watchful and expert eye of Unjuman Farooq who is herself a national award-winning Thang Ta player. The school secured three medals in the event. Sairah zahoor won the gold medal, while Shariba won the silver medal and Bariq won the bronze medal, DPS statement said.
A statement quoted Unjuman Farooq saying“The wins again highlight the quality of our training program. At DPS, we ensure that the students are identified for potential, and groomed to shine in the field.”
Chairman Vijay Dhar also expressed his delight at the rich haul, and noted it as a vindication of the school’s attempts to establish a sporting culture to offset the gloom of circumstances, the statement said.
Srinagar
Hurriyat (M) chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Friday while addressing at the Jamia Masjid said that Dehli with the support of local quislings has always undermined the establishment of a strong peoples leadership as they fear that such leadership which represents peoples aspirations and enjoys their full support, is a huge political challenge for them.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq
“The past 70 years of the political struggle bear testimony that while there have been those who badly betrayed the peoples trust reposed in them and are equally responsible for our current misery ,there have been great leaders among the people like Mirwaiz Yousuf shah chaudhry Ghulam Abbas Sufi Mohammad Akbar Amanulah Khan Shaheed Maqbool Bhat Shahed e millat Mirwaiz Molvi Farooq and others who despite being subject to pain and hardships of exile and jails allurements and appeasements by the adversary never gave in or compromised their integrity and the peoples trust in them and even sacrificed their lives for it,” said Mirwaiz.
Mirwaiz said the current people’s leadership is equally committed.It is sincere and steadfast and like the tremendous sacrifices being offered by the people especially youth, it is also facing hardships.
Mirwaiz said since 1947 all governments ruling India know that sincere and strong leadership is a threat to their control on Kashmir, so they have constantly undermined it.
“When repressive means of jailing detaining curbing and confining leadership fails devious tactics to discredit leadership and malign them is adopted. Viscous propaganda, lies and personal smear campaigns is launched on print electronic or social media and facts are twisted and manipulated.”
Mirwaiz said the NIA investigation drama to intimidate and badmouth leadership and dishearten people and disillusion them from their just political movement and their leadership has proved to be a failure for the agencies, as people saw through it. The lies and fabrications spread did not hold and the harassment caused to us and those close to us did not deter leadership. Yet leaders and activists have been detained in Tihar jail in scorching heat and hostile conditions.
Mirwaiz said now the propaganda of police cover provided to me is being raked up and exploited by the government. Drums are being beaten about the expenditure incurred on the cover. What is obvious is the pettiness of such people that they can play politics even on such an issue.
Mirwaiz said after the ‘Shahadat’ of my father police personnel were already stationed at my house when I returned from Mirwaiz’s manzil Rajouri Kadal where my family and I were staying for two months. When we inquired it was communicated that it was obligatory on the state to provide the cover based on their assessment of threat perception to me after my fathers Shahadat, and will not be removed. Since then they are stationed here.While hundreds of crores are spent on the police cover provided to thousands of people in the state, singling me out and drumming it up when they very well know the background of the whole issue shows their shallowness.
Mirwaiz said, “I reiterate that Government is free to withdraw the police personnel as and when it wants as I have never asked for it.”
Mirwaiz said as a Muslim for me as for my ancestors it is our belief that safety of a human being is best guaranteed by Allah as we are in his protection. He said for me, as for my ancestors duas and prayers of my people is also my protection and their selfless love and trust in me my strength and asset.
Srinagar
After successfully holding its three-day 64th Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) convention, the delegates are now enjoying their stay in the lap of nature at Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Srinagar, an official statement said.
“Over 600 delegates from across the country and abroad visited Kashmir to attend 64th TAAI Convention that concluded successfully on Thursday,” the spokesman said.
The spokesman said that during the convention, the delegates described Kashmir as “one of the best and most peaceful places for travellers” and the Association announced 2018 as “visit Kashmir Year”.
President TAAI, Sunil Kumar said the convention has given Kashmir the right impetus and visibility which will help in attracting more and more tourists towards the Valley.
“We have announced 2018 as ‘Visit Kashmir Year’ and TAAI Managing Committee would promote Kashmir through its websites, print and publicity material,” Kumar said adding the members would package Kashmir beautifully so that the Valley witnesses bumper tourism.
Ismail Al-Haj from Jordan who visited Kashmir for the first time, while explaining his experience said, “I spent few days here and it has really left me speechless. When you make up mind to visit Kashmir, it scares you but after you land here and interact with locals, you feel totally in peace. I think I have enjoyed here more than I can enjoy at any other place.”
Devesh Kumar Agarwal from Kolkata opined that the negative perception about the Valley is spoiling its tourism potential which otherwise is one of the most peaceful places for the visitors.
After visiting Pahalgam, Joyti Mayal from New Delhi described Kashmir as ‘Heaven on Earth’ and safest place for women. “While travelling, I saw more girls going to school than boys which gives an impression about the women empowerment here. The women have been enjoying their stay here and have loved the way tourists are welcomed and served. It is a real example of how tourism industry should work,” she said.
The delegates also enjoyed playing golf at Pahalgam Golf Course and Royal Springs Golf Course.
Another delegate Lalita Nijhawan said, “I had never imagined that Kashmir’s beauty which is not only confined to mountains or lakes but we have beautiful golf courses here. Kashmir has to be the top priority for a traveller. Everyone should visit this place and enjoy the natural beauty in a calm and serene environment which is not available elsewhere,” she said.
Secretary Tourism Sarmad Hafeez said TAAI convention will help send a positive signal across the globe that J&K is one of the best tourist destinations. “This was a historic event which we conceived during winter months and it will help revive tourism in a big way. The local experience which delegates will carry back is our success. Every delegate has been overwhelmed by the tourism products we offer. The local travel agents from J&K also had a great networking session at their home places and they have also benefitted,” he added.
Director Tourism Kashmir Mahmood A Shah said TAAI has given Kashmir huge impetus which will revive tourism in a big way. “The travel agents were extremely happy over visiting Kashmir. They have promised to promote Kashmir vigorously. We will be expecting good tourist flow this year,” he said.
Srinagar
A man-eater leopard was killed after hit by a speedy vehicle on Thursday night at Rohmoo village of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district.
Official sources said that a man-eater leopard was found dead on Friday morning near the Rohmoo village. The locals soon after spotting the leopard in a pool of blood informed the wildlife department about it.
A team of the wildlife reached the spot very late and took the body into custody, the locals said.
Divisional Forest Officer for wildlife department Afshana said that the leopard according to the preliminary investigations died after hit by an unknown vehicle.
The body of the wild animal was taken to the control room for post-mortem and other necessary formalities, she said, adding that the local concerned police station has also been informed about the incident.
Asked why the department did not take any measures to catch the leopard despite repeated requests from locals who they said had killed dozens of domestic animals since past one month, the officer said they have laid the cages in the neighbouring Rohmoo village to catch hold of the wild animal.
“Our sleuths laid the cages but unfortunately they had did not succeed in catching the animal,” Afshana said.GNS
Srinagar
A man from South Kashmir whose vehicle was allegedly used by militants to carry out an attack on Rashtriya Rifles on Thursday evening surrendered before police on Friday.
Pertinently, militants attacked an army unit of 44 RR in Ahgam Shopian on Thursday evening. The militants had used a private Sentro Vehicle that they had abandoned while fleeing from the spot. A militant Asif Ashraf Malik was wounded in the attack and is undergoing treatment at SKIMS Srinagar.
Police sources said that after the seizure of the said vehicle, it surfaced, that it was owned by Nisar Ahmed Mir, son of Abdul Ahad Mir, a resident of Yadro hamlet of South Kashmir’s Shopian district.
Reliable sources informed that during the dead of the night combined forces including 44 RR raided the house of the owner of the vehicle. Sources added that the owner of the vehicle Nisar Ahmed Mir was not present in the house, while Forces personnel picked up his brother Muhammad Yakub Mir.
Mir’s family alleged that Yakub was tortured at the army camp and they were told that he could be released only after Nisar Ahmed will surrender before police.
“Nisar had informed us beforehand that militants intercepted his vehicle while he was on way towards his home. He is a common man and has nothing to do militancy. We persuaded him to surrender before the police which he did,” said family members of Mir.
A police official confirmed that vehicle owner Nisar Ahmed Mir surrendered before the police. “As per his statement, his vehicle was forcibly taken away by militants. We are investigating the matter,” he added and refuted the family allegations that Yakub Mir was physically hurt. (CNS)
Srinagar
Welcoming the government move to set separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani free from house detention, interlocutor Dineshwar Sharma, who is in Kashmir Valley Friday said that Jammu Kashmir Government should allow Geelani and his company to interact freely with people.
“Government should allow them to move and express freely. There is nothing wrong if they put their point of view freely but without creating any law and order problem,” Sharma told news a local news gatherer.
He said it is up to the government to decide how to deal with Geelani and others if they create some law and order problem.
To a question, Dineshwar Sharma said “it is up to Hurriyat to decide whether they want to talk to me or not. How can I force them? It is their responsibility. It is they who have to take a call on the dialogue.”
When asked whether his recommendations will be implemented unlike past, Dineshwar Sharma claimed that many decisions are in offing. He said so many decisions with regard to Kashmir have been taken and those will be implemented in letter and spirit. When asked to elaborate, Sharma said that a decision to grant amnesty to stone-pelters has already been implemented. “You will see a change, a big change. Only people will decide whether my Kashmir visits have borne any fruit or not,” Sharma said. (CNS)
Srinagar
Hours after state authorities lifted restrictions over Hurriyat chairman Syed Ali Geelani, he offered Friday congregational prayers and addressed a public rally at Hyderpora here in Srinagar.
Accompanied by Tehreek-e-Hurriyat chairman Mohammad Ashraf Sehrai and his supporters, Syed Ali Geelani after a long period of eight years of his house confinement, made his first public appearance on Friday and addressed a public rally here, said a spokesman.
Geelani was accorded a rousing reception and was taken from his residence amid pro-freedom slogans to the nearby masjid in Hyderpora.
Quoting verse from Holy Quran, Syed Ali Geelani in his brief speech reminded the people about the unending tale of unmatched sacrifices of the Kashmiri people since past seven decades against the government rule and stressed to illustrate steadfastness and commitment with ongoing resistance against Indian rule.
On the occasion, Syed Ali Geelani cautioned the people against divide and rule policy of pro-Indian factions and stressed to forge unity among all those pursuing sacred missions.
Geelani asked people to repose faith in Almighty Allah and seek refuge in Him only as this will definitely infuse spirits and rejuvenate our willpower against all brutalities and hardships we face while pursuing the pious and sacred mission of martyrs.
“I, with a sincere heart, want to convey that we are yearning for peace and seek a peaceful resolution to the long- pending Kashmir issue, said Geelani, saying, India needs to fulfil its promise of giving Kashmiris their right to self-determination to choose their future,” he said.
“We want to remind Indian authorities, Geelani said that we are not demanding any part of India be separated but made it clear Jammu & Kashmir is a disputed territory which needs a resolution in accordance with resolutions presented by India itself before UN on January 1948.
India is suffering from the arrogance of power and is using an imperialistic and forced attitude in the disputed territory of J&K, Geelani said in his address to people.
Geelani expressed his deep concern over the increasing, waywardness, liquor consumption, drug addiction and other social evils and in his fervent appeal to youth asked to play their effective and pivotal role to help to eradicate this menace from society.
While commenting on the future course of action, Hurriyat chairman said that Joint resistance leadership will meet in near future to chalk out a fresh strategy. Geelani hailed youth for their passion, commitment and enthusiasm for the freedom movement.
Later the Syed Ali Geelani was taken from the Masjid to his Hyderpora residence in a procession led by enthusiastic youth and the crowd shouted slogans of “Azadi” and expressed deep love and fondness for him.
Srinagar
Jammu Kashmir Coalition of Civil Society (JKCCS) released a report on the impact of violence on the children of Jammu and Kashmir titled Terrorized: Impact of Violence on the Children of Jammu and Kashmir (2018) on Friday.
The report is the assessment of the violence against children in Jammu and Kashmir in the last fifteen years i.e. (2003 to 2017) and gives data on killings, arrests, mass violence, sexual violence perpetrated against children.
Children in Jammu and Kashmir are living in the most militarized zone of the world, with the presence of 7,00,000 troopers, which exposes them to the risk of all grave six violations against children as laid out in United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
The report by Jammu Kashmir Coalition of Civil Society examines the situation of children in the ongoing conflict in Jammu and Kashmir during the last fifteen years – i.e. 2003 to 2017. The report provides statistics, graphs, figures, and the analysis of killings of children in the last fifteen years (2003 to 2017) in various incidents of violence in Jammu and Kashmir. With providing examples of targetted state violence against children, the report demonstrates that children have not been viewed differently by armed forces and have been targeted and victimized as part of the state’s offensive against the general population.
The fifteen-year period from 2003 to 2017, witnessed not less than 318 killings of children (in the age group of 1 to 17) in various incidents of violence in Jammu and Kashmir. The killing of 318 children constitutes 6.95% of the civilian killings in last fifteen years, as 4571 civilians have been killed in Jammu and Kashmir in the same period (2003 – 2017). In the same period, i.e. from 2003 to 2017, at least 16,436 killings were recorded in Jammu and Kashmir, and the majority of them included alleged militants numbering at least 8537 killings. The numbers indicate that in the last fifteen years Jammu and Kashmir in an average year have witnessed at least 1,095 killings, which belies the government’s claims of ‘return to normalcy’.
The pattern of killings of children in the fifteen-year period suggests that children were direct targets of state violence, as part of its stated offensive to curb uprising and militancy. At least 144 children were killed by Indian armed forces and state police in Jammu and Kashmir, which alone accounts for nearly half, i.e. 44.02 percent, of the total children killed. Most of the children, at least 110 of them, killed in state violence were shot dead in different incidents of violence, and not less than 8 children died due to injuries inflicted from pellet shot-guns fired by government forces. Twenty-seven children died to due drowning either caused due to the negligence of armed forces in Wular lake tragedy or being chased by government forces during a protest, where victims find no way of escape from the armed forces and forced to jump into water bodies, resulting in their death.
The report lays bare that there are no legal and normative processes or practices protecting children’s rights in Jammu and Kashmir as hundreds of minors have been booked under the repressive Public Safety Act (PSA), with total disregard to the fact of their being children.
Srinagar
Jammu and Kashmir police seek the help of the general public to trace the mentally unsound missing person.
A mentally unsound person is missing from his home in Budgam since March 25, 2018.
One person namely Abdul Rahim Bhat son of Jabbar Bhat resident of Harduwail, Budgam reported in Police Station Budgam that his son Reyaz Ahmad Bhat, mentally unsound is missing since 25th of March. A report was entered in the daily diary of Police Station and investigation has been started, a police spokesman said.
Anybody having any information regarding the missing person may please contact PCR Budgam on 01955-255042, 9797730034, 9419138752 or Police Control Room on 100.
Srinagar
Awantipora Police has arrested four gamblers and recovered stake money of rupees 7,900 from the gambling spot, police said on Friday.
The spokesman in a statement said that acting on an information, a police party of Police Station Khrew headed by SHO Khrew Javaid Ahmad raided a gambling site at village Sharshali Khrew and arrested four gamblers.
The spokesman said that “stake money of rupees 7900 and playing cards were recovered from the spot.”
A case under relevant section of gambling Act has been registered in Police Station Khrew and investigation was taken up.
Srinagar
During the past couple of months, a gang of burglars was active in Sub Division Uri who had committed burglary and thefts in various residential houses creating a fear psychosis among people and had thrown a challenge for law enforcing agencies, the spokesman in a statement said.
After tireless and intensive efforts of Police team lead by Javid Ahmad, Dy.SP SDPO Uri and Inspector Tabrez Ahmad Khan SHO Police Station Uri, the whole gang was identified and finally arrested and 04 cases of burglary/thefts of Police Station Uri were solved. Those arrested include the gang leader Ahmad Jan @ Jana S/O Gh. Nabi Malik R/O Garkote Uri and his 03 associates Tanveer Ahmad Sofi S/O Bashir Ahmad Sofi R/O Trikanjan, Gh. Mohd Malik S/O Lal Din Malik R/O Garkote Uri and Bilal Ahmad Dar S/O Gh. Mohd Dar R/O Margipora Pattan. All the stolen property in 04 cases of burglary and theft which include golden jewellery, Cash, Blankets and Copper utensils were recovered from the possession of this burglary gang, thus cases FIR No. 6/2018, 8/2018, 22/2018 and 23/2017 under section 457,380 RPC of Police Station of Uri have been solved, the spokesman added.
The receiver of this stolen property has also been arrested under section 411 RPC. Also, the vehicle used for the commission of the crime has been seized, he added.
The spokesman said that it is pertinent to mention here that all the burglary and theft cases of Uri Sub Division have been worked out and all the stolen property have been recovered in all the cases except one case for which efforts are on to nab the culprits and recover stolen property.
“With busting of this gang, the people of the area had a sigh of relief and this will go a long way to infuse the sense of security among the people of the area,” the spokesman said.
Srinagar
Senior Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader and Vice President Sartaj Madni emphasized the need to carry forward the initiatives that are necessary for fulfilling the promises made in the alliance document in the larger interest of the peace in the region and bringing an end to the prolonged miseries of the people of Jammu & Kashmir.
Madni said the appointment of Disneshwar Sharma as an interlocutor has already set in motion the process and a beginning has been made at the local level for a required connect to forge reconciliation. The state government has taken several confidence-building measures to instill faith and trust among the people, particularly youth along with holistic development plans and misery mitigating welfare measures.
However, delay in resumption of sustainable dialogue and revival of peace initiatives between India and Pakistan is causing worries and has the potential of undermining the Agenda of Alliance (AoA), Madni said adding vital initiatives that were taken during Vajpayee regime in this direction also are seen missed at the peril of the much desired peace process.
Madni said Vajpayee Doctrine had emerged as a benchmark for shared concerns and this process was able to claim public approval at local as well as sub-continental level.
Madni recalled how PDP patron Mufti Mohammad Sayeed amply contributed to Vajpayee’s peace campaign which changed the discourse entirely creating ambiance for conflict resolution. It was a result of this campaign that then Pakistan President reciprocated to transform hostility into bonhomie and the region was filled with hope and optimism. Vajpayee – Musharaf mutual understanding took the Kashmir problem nearer to the solution. It is an irony and misfortune that the process got scuttled before it could culminate into something tangible. Alas, the conflict was perpetuated compounding the issues and progress made was reversed at the peril of the people.
Madni said even as state Government made concerted efforts to carry ahead the developmental agenda and pursued the course of political reconciliation through series of developmental, welfare and amnesty measures, the dip in Indo–Pak relations pushed the state into fresh spell of bloodshed Madni said Mufti Mohammad Sayeed had desired otherwise when he entered into government formation with BJP, it was his hope and belief that under the leadership of Narender Modi, Vajpayee initiative will be resumed and Indo-Pak relations would improve as a tribute to the veteran national Leader. He had envisioned that Modi’s massive electoral mandate will work as added strength to settle the long-pending dispute.
Madni said alliance reflected this belief and PDP’s own resolve to resolve Kashmir when Mehbooba followed her mentor and leader to continue alliance. She was no less influenced by the Vajpayee example and promise made in the AoA, which she has been seeing as the only reference point for resolution of issues including the Kashmir issue. She has never discredited the AOA and in fact made herself an offer for internal dialogue, besides exhorting upon New Delhi to forge friendly ties with neighbouring Pakistan.
Madni said it is heartening to note that Union Government has bound itself not to fiddle with Article 370, as promised in AoA and facilitated trust deficit through development component to a great measure.
Srinagar
Irfan Pathan on Friday joined the state cricket academy as a mentor cum player at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Cricket Stadium, Sonwar.
Irfan Pathan
Reports said that Pathan will train the budding cricketers of the valley for which he recently obtained a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Baroda Cricket Association.
The star cricketer who has been roped in by J&K Cricket Association (JKCA) Administrators and JKCA CEO Syed Ashquie Hussain Bukhari for the initial one year term held interaction with the young budding cricketers at the stadium upon his maiden visit to Kashmir.
Pathan also suggested youngsters work hard on their game in order to achieve their dreams.
Srinagar
At least six passengers were injured after a passenger cab slipped into Dodhganga Nalah in Chadoora area of central Kashmir’s Budgam district on Friday.
Reports said that all six passengers boarding the taxi were injured in the accident.
Reports added that the two of them were rushed to SDH Chadoora while other four are said to have sustained minor injuries.
Srinagar
Senior National Conference leader and former Finance minister Abdul Rahim Rather on Friday blamed the incumbent PDP BJP government for the states worsening economic condition over the last three years.
“The state’s economy is continuously witnessing a sharp decline ever since this government took over. Local industry has nosedived to a record low, trade is being mismanaged while agriculture has bore the brunt of this chaos,” former Finance Minister said while speaking at a public gathering in Darwan, Nowgam, Char-i-Sharief.
“The state of J&K is on a clampdown when it comes to financial matters. The assertion of having revenue luxury by the government has proven to be misleading and fictitious. Most serious is the fact that government finances are indicative of a crumbled economy especially with respect to deferring of liabilities. Inevitable to disturb the budgetary allocation of next year, the liabilities have accumulated to such an extent that there is a certainty of their flow to the next fiscal year,” Abdul Rahim Rather said.
Questioning the Mehbooba Mufti government over the implementation of 7th Pay commission bound to happen by April 2018, senior NC leader said, “This government finds itself tied down. There is an absolute breach of commitments and an upright refusal towards the payment of arrears. The State legislature and the people were made to believe that an amount of 95,000 Cr would be available to the government for expenditure during 2018-2019. If it was so, why is the government short of funds in the first month of the financial year? The government needs to work harder on its fiscal arithmetic.”
Drawing comparisons with the decisions taken in the previous NC led government, Rather said, “We introduced a pay hike of 50% with an additional Rs 4200 Cr as arrears while implementing the 6th pay commission recommendations without any aggravations or stresses. However, the current administration has increased the pay hike to a mere 16% with a denial to disburse arrears.”
“Technical glitches in the implementation of GST, against the expert advice, has reduced the business sentiment and affected the common man alike. As of today, the state has been deprived of its fiscal autonomy due to the inconsiderate and reckless adoption of this tax regime,” he said.
Commenting on the current law and order situation in the state and the recent assertions by Union MoS Home Affairs on the process of dialogue, senior NC leader said, “CASO’s have become the order of the day. Nothing can be more demeaning when no less a person than the Chief Minister herself mentioned that ‘bullet for bullet’ has been adopted as a principle. Helplessly, the CM also mentioned that the state has been left alone by the country. This proves the desperate and distressed nature of the current dispensation. The Union MoS Home affairs recently referred to the J&K CM as not having pushed for any formal proposal of talks between India and Pakistan. This comes at a time when the Chief Minister has been constantly urging the Centre to initiate talks with the neighbouring country to mitigate the ever-increasing apprehension between the two nations and the state of Jammu and Kashmir.”
Srinagar
Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) chairman Mohammad Yasin Malik on Friday said that unity and oneness of people of Jammu and Kashmir will lead to the success in the freedom struggle.
“Shaheed-I-Kashmir Ishfaq Majeed Wani changed the history of Jammu Kashmir and led a historical people’s revolution for freedom. Shaheed-I-Sadaqat Shabir Sideequi was a great son of soil whose sacrifices will always be remembered,” Malik told a gathering at Anchar Soura here today.
Terming Wani as a born leader, JKLF chairman said that the days and years of his life from September 6, 1966, to March 30, 1990, are shining marks of his prominence.
“Wani was a humble slave of Almighty Allah who tried to take his every step was for truth and justice. He was a symbol of Courage, Fearlessness, piousness, and passion, resistance against illegal occupation, injustice, and tyranny,” Malik said.
He said the “torture cells, jails, and other oppression were not able to deter him from his path and he stood firm for freedom movement till his last breath.”
“JKLF is an ideology and romance for freedom, this is why history finds its leaders right from Father of nation Muhammad Maqbool Butt to Shaheed-I-Kashmir Ishfaq Majeed Wani in first row at the time of rendering sacrifice and today when we are recalling the sacrifice of our beloved leader, we reiterate our pledge to take their mission forward at every cost,” he said.
While paying tributes to Shabir Ahmad Sidiqi and “Dargah Hazratbal martyrs”, JKLF chairman said that “Sidiqi sahib was a religious scholar of immense importance and a man of wisdom who strived and sacrificed his life for the freedom of Kashmir.”
Malik also condemned the “oppression unleashed on Kashmiri inmates” and said that Kashmiri “prisoners are being terrorized by so-called biggest democracy.”
He appealed to ICRC and other international human rights organizations to intervene and save the lives of these inmates.
According to the spokesperson, a prayer meeting in connection with the “martyrdom day of Ishfaq Majeed Wani, Shabir Sidiqi, doctor Abdul Ahad Guru and advocate Jalil Andrabi, Shuhada-I-Hazratbal and other martyrs was held at Martyrs Graveyard (Mazar-I-Shuhada) Eid Gah today.”
“Led by JKLF chairman Muhammad Yasin Malik, a large number of people, admirers of great martyrs along with various JKLF leaders and activists participated in the prayers meeting,” the spokesperson said.
“JKLF Azad Kashmir/ Pakistan chapter today staged a peaceful sit-in at Burhan Chowk near Press Club in Muzaffarabad against continued cross firing and shelling on ceasefire Line,” he said.
Srinagar
Hurriyat Conference (M) Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Friday said the government is free to take back its police cover from him and the government should stop playing politics over it.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq at Jamia Masjid Srinagar
“Sustained attempt to discredit leadership to disillusion people. Be it the viscous NIA smear campaign which proved to a flop show or the “police security cover” propaganda. These devious tactics won’t keep the people away from me or me away from them…and the freedom movement! Govt free to take back its police cover and stop playing politics over it!” Mirwaiz tweeted.
Earlier, New Delhi said that Jammu and Kashmir government provides security cover to separatist leaders.
Srinagar
Jammu and Kashmir Police on Friday claimed to have arrested an over ground worker (OGW) affiliated with Hizb ul-Mujahideen militant outfit in Ganderbal district.
Reports said that senior police official on Friday identified the over ground worker as Nazir Ahmad Malik, son of Abdul Khaliq Malik, of Lobar Mohalla Shalbug.
He said that Malik was arrested during a cordon-and-search-operation at his native village.
“Nazir was an overground worker of Hizb ul Mujahideen and was involved in providing support to the outfit. A huge quantity of incriminating material was recovered from his possession,” he said.
The official said that a case, vide FIR number 41/2018 under section 212 Act, stands registered in Police Station Ganderbal. “Investigation of the case is going on. More arrests are expected in coming days,” he said.
Srinagar
Doctors Association Kashmir (DAK) on Friday held an emergency meeting at its head office in Srinagar which was attended by Dr Suhail Naik , Dr Owais H Dar, Dr Mohd Ashraf, Dr Ayjaz Ahmad Bhat, Dr Masood Rashid, Dr Arshid Trag, Dr Mohd Yousuf Tak , Dr Masood ul Hassan, Dr Adil Wani, Dr Md Ashraf Shah, Dr Ajaz and Dr Mir Mushtaq.
The spokesman said the meeting was held after DAK received continuous delegations from undergraduate and postgraduate students of Govt. Dental College(GDC) Srinagar after the suspension of their strike a few days back. DAK hails the attachment of Professor Mohammad Mushtaq, Head of the Department(HOD) orthodontics, GDC, Srinagar, however, the academic arrangements for the PG students have not been made till now as per reports.
DAK president Dr Suhail Naik said that “no order has been issued by the government for the appointment of new HOD of orthodontics department yet, which in turn makes the department to suffer in general and patients &students in particular.
The “caretaker” principal holding the prestigious chair of GDC has turned the college and hospital into corruption sage house wherein nepotism, red-tapism, corruption and harassment of students is part and parcel of his policy”.
Dr Naik further said, “the students have communicated to the DAK that they would be forced to resume their strike if their academic arrangement is not made at the earliest and furthermore if Principal is not removed who is the main culprit of all the dental college mess”.
DAK urges the government to remove dental college principal at the earliest in the interest of administration, patient care and improvement of academics.
It is pertinent to mention that he has been appointed as a caretaker Principal more than a decade and a half back but still continues to be on the chair, though according to Supreme Court guidelines either the person has to be confirmed for the said post or an alternate arrangement has to be made within 6 months of the appointment. Moreover, he has vigilance cases pending against him vide no. VOK-FIR-33/2012k.3094-95 and his illegal and unethical continuation on this prestigious chair on “caretaker” basis is in itself a proof of his strong connections in the power corridors.
DAK stresses upon the Health Minister, Bali Bhagat to act and settle the GDC issue once for all by appointing much competent and honest person for the said chair so that prestige of this academic asset is not compromised.
Srinagar
Police on Friday claimed to have arrested two drug peddlers and recovered contraband substance from their possession.
A spokesman of police said that two drug peddlers, identified as Gurdiyal Massi son of Darshan resident of Kooperthla Punjab and Ravi Singh son of Dilber Singh resident of Jaspal Amritsar were arrested by a Police Party of Police Post JT during Naka checking at security check post-JT.
“The duo were travelling in an SRTC passenger bus bearing registration number JK01Y-0624 which was on way to Jammu from Srinagar. 09 Kilograms of poppy straw was recovered from their possession,” a police official said.
“Kulgam police has registered a case FIR number 66/2018 under section 8/15 NDPS in this regard and investigation was taken up,” the official said.
Srinagar
In a bid to end his life, a youth (name withheld) resident of Srinagar on Friday consumed some poisonous substance, a police spokesman said.
“He was shifted to SKIMS Soura for treatment”, the spokesman said.
Meanwhile, Srinagar police has registered a case in this regard.
Srinagar
At least eight houses were gutted in a major fire that broke out in a congested locality in the Srinagar city on Friday.
View of a damaged house in Aali Kadal.
KL Image by Mukhtar Zahoor
Fire broke out at a house in congested Aali Kadal area of Srinagar around 11:35 AM and within no time engulfed some adjoining dwellings, a spokesman of the fire and emergency services said.
Fire tenders were rushed to the scene and the blaze was put out after nearly two hours.
“We pressed 20 fire tenders and six pumps into action to control the blaze and managed to avert a major tragedy as the area is thickly populated and the lanes and by-lanes are narrow,” the official said.
The officer said about eight houses were damaged in the fire.
“We are still assessing the damage and the cause of the fire,” he said.
He added that our four firemen and civilian sustain injuries while dousing the flames, who were later shifted to hospital for treatment.
