Bijbehara, South Kashmir – In a heartbreaking incident, two young cricketers lost their lives in a tragic road accident near Bijbehara town of South Kashmir’s Anantnag district on Monday. The victims were returning home after playing a cricket match when their vehicle met with an accident.
According to local sources, the deceased have been identified as Irfan Ahmad and Jasif Hassan, both promising players who had participated in a cricket match earlier in the day at Sumerbugh. While travelling back, their vehicle reportedly lost control near Bijbehara, leading to a fatal crash.
A third cricketer, Nadeem, who was also in the vehicle, sustained critical injuries in the accident. He was immediately shifted to a local hospital and later referred to SKIMS Srinagar for advanced medical treatment.
The tragic news has sent shockwaves through the local cricket community and the wider region. Friends, family, and fellow cricketers have expressed deep sorrow over the loss of two budding talents. Social media platforms are flooded with condolence messages and tributes to the young players.
Police have registered a case and launched an investigation to determine the exact cause of the accident.The untimely deaths of Irfan and Jasif have left a deep void in the local sports circle, and prayers are being held for the speedy recovery of Nadeem.
Dr. Nafiaah Naqash, a researcher from SKUAST-K, has been awarded the esteemed BioCARe Fellowship 2024-25 by the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India. Mentored by Dr. Showkeen Muzamil Bashir from the Division of Veterinary Biochemistry, FVSc & AH, SKUAST-K, she is set to embark on an innovative research journey.
This exceptionally competitive fellowship empowers women scientists across India with robust academic and financial support. This year, Dr. Nafiaah joins the selective circle of scientists driving innovations in the country.
Dr. Nafiaah has made notable contributions to environmental toxicology, particularly in microplastic contamination and the effects of multiple environmental stressors. Her work, featured in high-impact journals (with an impact factor up to 15.0), has brought critical attention to key ecological concerns.
She will be awarded a research grant of ₹59.9 lakh, including ₹27 lakh fellowship support for 3 years for a research project titled “Plastic Waste to Bioactive Healing Hydrogel for Effective Management of MRSA-Infected Diabetic Wounds’’
This remarkable achievement not only highlights Dr. Nafiaah’s scientific excellence but also reflects SKUAST-K’s expanding role as a hub of interdisciplinary research and innovation. With a clear mandate for cutting-edge research, SKUAST-K, under the visionary leadership of Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganai, continues to demonstrate its unwavering commitment to national progress. These accomplishments stand as a testament to the university’s dedication towards contributing efforts for the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047.
In a major action against drug trafficking, Police in Anantnag have attached property of a notorious drug peddler under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, further intensifying its crackdown on the drug menace in the district.
A double-storeyed residential house built over 5 marlas of land and owned by Peer Iftikar Hussain, resident of Hutmurah, Mattan, has been attached under Section 68-F(1) of the NDPS Act. The action, taken by Police Station Mattan in connection with FIR No. 103/2024, involves property valued at approximately ₹1 crore.
This step is part of the continued efforts of J&K Police to root out the drug trade and dismantle networks enabling such illegal activities.
J&K Police remains steadfast in its resolve to take tough and lawful action against all individuals involved in drug trafficking. Citizens are once again urged to report any drug-related information or suspicious activities in their areas.“`
Chairman of Hazrat Bulbulshah Trust Farooq Renzu Sunday said that the shrine of Hazrat Bulbul Shah (RA) continues to remain outside the ambit of any specified State or Central Waqf authority.
In a statement issued here, he said the shrine was excluded from the specified list of shrines under the Waqf Act 2004, even during its formulation in 2003.
However, Renzu said that other revered shrines of Kashmir including the Dargah Hazratbal, Khanqah-e-Moula, Makhdoom Sahab, and Charar-e-Sharief had been unfortunately brought under the specified Waqf Act.
Bollywood actor Sara Ali Khan, known for her down-to-earth nature, vibrant personality, and deep-rooted love for Indian culture, is once again making headlines—this time not for a film release, but for a soulful spiritual journey. As part of her ongoing temple visits across the country, Sara recently offered her prayers at the Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati, Assam, after visiting the Chandramouleshwara Temple in Karnataka. Dressed in a white chikankari salwar-kurta, the actor looked graceful and peaceful as she sought blessings at one of the most powerful Shakti Peethas in India.
The Kamakhya Temple, dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya or Shakti, holds a special place in India’s spiritual landscape. It symbolises female power, fertility, and divine energy and is often visited by devotees from across the country. For Sara, this visit was not just religious—it was reflective and poetic.
She shared glimpses from her temple visit on social media with a heartfelt caption in her signature rhyming style:
“Moments of stillness amidst the perpetual flow. A purposeful reminder to breathe and go slow. Listen to the whispers of the river, feel the sun’s glow. Wander deep, embrace life and allow yourself to grow.”
These words, deeply introspective and spiritual, reveal Sara’s attempt to slow down in an otherwise fast-paced world. Her message encouraged fans to pause, reflect, and reconnect with life’s deeper meanings.
A Personal Choice Amidst Public Scrutiny
While Sara’s spiritual journeys and visits to Hindu temples have often been celebrated by her followers, they have also, at times, attracted criticism—mainly due to her background. Born to actor Saif Ali Khan and actress Amrita Singh, Sara Ali Khan comes from a family with both Muslim and Sikh heritage. Yet, she has never let labels define her.
Despite growing up in a secular and inclusive household, Sara has faced repeated trolling on social media for visiting Hindu temples, performing pujas, or participating in religious rituals not traditionally associated with her ancestral religion. But her response has always been composed and thoughtful.
At the Times Now Summit 2025, Sara addressed this criticism with honesty and calm:
“I was very young, in school, and even when my parents were married and we used to immigrate together abroad, I used to always wonder… Amrita Singh, Saif Pataudi, Sara Sultana, Ibrahim Ali Khan—what is going on? Who are we? And I remember asking my mom, ‘What am I?’ And she told me, ‘You are Indian.’ And I will never forget that.”
Her mother’s simple yet powerful answer has stayed with her, guiding her perspective ever since. Sara has often spoken about how her upbringing was focused on values, compassion, and humanity—not labels or religious boundaries.
“We are a secular nation and I think that all these concepts, all these boundaries are made and manipulated by people and I don’t adhere to them,” she added during the summit.
Living By Her Beliefs
Sara’s visits to religious sites—be it Kedarnath, Kashi Vishwanath, Mahakal, or Kamakhya—are a part of her personal connection with India’s cultural heritage. They are not publicity stunts or acts of rebellion. They’re expressions of her inner self, her quest for peace, and her search for strength in tradition.
Even when negativity surrounds her, Sara remains firm in her path. She shared her coping strategy for dealing with hate:
“It’s a fool’s errand to change the way other people think. I have to tune it out.”
This attitude has won her both admiration and respect. By not engaging in arguments or defending herself aggressively, she has shown maturity beyond her years.
Poetry, Simplicity, and Spirituality
One of the things that set Sara apart from many of her contemporaries is her love for poetry and self-expression. Whether she’s posting temple photos, sharing travel memories, or writing reflections, her captions are often poetic and thoughtful. It’s this blend of simplicity and depth that makes her relatable to fans from all walks of life.
Her poem during the Kamakhya visit not only reflected her frame of mind but also resonated with many who feel overwhelmed by life’s demands. Words like “breathe and go slow” and “embrace life” are more than just literary lines—they are reminders of mindful living.
Sara’s Journey Through India’s Spiritual Heartland
This is not the first time Sara has undertaken such a spiritual journey. She has been spotted several times visiting various temples across the country, including:
Kedarnath Temple in Uttarakhand, where she shot her debut film,
Mahakaleshwar Temple in Ujjain,
Kashi Vishwanath Temple in Varanasi,
Golden Temple in Amritsar, and now,
Kamakhya Temple in Guwahati.
Her respect for all religions and customs is visible in the way she carries herself during these visits—with humility and reverence.
Conclusion: A Voice of Balance in a Divided World
Sara Ali Khan’s temple visit is more than just a photo opportunity. It is a personal pilgrimage, a journey of faith, growth, and identity. By continuing to walk her own path, she quietly challenges the narrow boxes society often places people into.
In a time where religion is sometimes used as a tool to divide, Sara’s approach reminds us of the beauty in coexistence. Her identity is not defined by religious labels but by her experiences, values, and choices. She proudly embraces her Indian roots—be it through language, poetry, spirituality, or art.
And in doing so, she becomes a symbol of the very India her mother once described to her: secular, inclusive, and soulful.
The Department of Health & Medical Education, Jammu and Kashmir, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW), Government of India, successfully conducted the National Review Meeting for Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY) 2025 at the Banquet Hall in Srinagar.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders, senior officials, and experts to review past experiences, discuss preparedness, and enhance the coordination framework for medical services during the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. Dr Syed Abid Rashid Shah (IAS), Secretary, Health & Medical Education (H&ME), J&K, who was the chief guest, delivered a keynote address highlighting the government’s commitment to ensuring a robust healthcare system for pilgrims. He emphasised the need for streamlining the process of issuance of Compulsory Health Certificates by the States and putting in efforts to ensure that the certificates that are issued are done after thoroughly accessing the health status of the intending pilgrim. This measure will help in curbing the morbidity and mortality and save lives.
He also appreciated the states for deputing specialists and medical officers for Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra duties over the years and expressed hope that the states and the Government of India institutions depute the staff as per the requisitioned numbers for the forthcoming Yatra 2025. He especially focused on the requirement of Cardiologists, Respiratory Physicians and Anesthetists. This was followed by the unveiling of the Yatra Booklet and the distribution of certificates of appreciation to States and MoHFW. The States/MoHFW Institutions that participated included Delhi, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Telangana, Maharashtra, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and West Bengal. Prominent national level institutions who participated included AIIMS (New Delhi, Raipur, Jodhpur, Bhubaneswar Patna, Bhopal, Rishikesh),PGIMER Chandigarh, JIPMER Puducherry as well as Banaras Hindu University Medical College, RML Hospital, LHMC, Safdergung Hospitals, New Delhi, and Aligarh Muslim University Medical College. Additionally SKIMS Medical College and Government Medical Colleges of Jammu, Srinagar, Anantnag participated in the meet.
The meeting featured a comprehensive overview of Emergency Medical Response (EMR) activities presented by Dr. L Swasticharan, Additional DDG & Director EMR, MoHFW, outlining emergency response strategies and best practices. Dr. Sujata Chaudhary, Additional Director General Health Services, MoHFW, further elaborated on national-level coordination efforts to enhance medical response mechanisms for SANJY.
Meanwhile, District Development Commissioner (DDC) Anantnag, Syeed Fakhrudin Hamid, chaired a meeting to review the comprehensive action plan for the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY) 2025-26. The meeting reviewed and refined the Capex and Revex budgets, ensuring meticulous preparations for the upcoming pilgrimage. Critical components such as infrastructure, security, medical services, sanitation and logistics essential for the Yatra’s success were discussed. The meeting focused on aligning preparations with budgetary allocations, with detailed presentations from various departments. Engineering departments presented plans for roads and track, shelters, and resting areas to facilitate seamless pilgrim movement.
The Medical Departments detailed medical and emergency response strategies including by AYUSH to ensure comprehensive healthcare. Meanwhile, Rural Development and Panchayats Department and Municipal Councils presented a thorough sanitation and waste management framework to maintain cleanliness and provide adequate public amenities throughout the pilgrimage. Transport Department presented a plan for transportation during the Yatra. District Information Officer presented a plan for effective communication. The DDC underscored the necessity of interdepartmental collaboration to guarantee a seamless Yatra experience.
He called for proactive planning and swift execution of the action plans to preempt and resolve any challenges, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to a successful and safe Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025-26. Among others the meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner Anantnag, Chief Executive Officer of the Pahalgam Development Authority, Superintending Engineers from R&B, O&M (KPDCL), and Hydraulic Circles, as well as the Assistant Commissioner Panchayat, Chief Medical Officer and Chief Animal Husbandry Officer. Meanwhile, the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra is scheduled to begin from July 3, 2025.
Jammu and Kashmir recorded over 94 forest fire incidents during the past 11 days reveals the official data.It states that over 94 forest fire cases were reported between March 24 and April 3, 2025.
The fires have affected at least 15 districts across both Kashmir and Jammu divisions, sparking concern.The highest single-day spike occurred on April 2, when 35 fire incidents were reported in forest areas, followed by 18 fires on April 3, according to consolidated reports.
Anantnag has been the worst-hit district, recording fires on almost every reported day. Pulwama, Budgam, Ganderbal, and Bandipora have also seen frequent incidents.In Jammu division, Rajouri, Ramban, Reasi, Doda, and Poonch have experienced several fires, specially from April 1 onward.
As per the Jammu and Kashmir Disaster Management Authority (JKSDMA), currently there are two active forest fire alerts in J&K, with one being of extreme nature and valid till 10 April 2025.
“Extreme Forest Fire Risk is likely to occur over forest area near Purmandal and Kathua, in next 7 days. Dial 112 for emergency help,” reads the alert.Another alert, as per KNO, states, “Very High Forest Fire Risk is likely to occur over forest area near Rajwalta, Kalakote, Samba, Kathua, Lakhanpur, in next 7 days. Dial 112 for emergency help.”
Given the heightened fire risk, authorities have also outlined several dos and don’ts to prevent forest fires and ensure public safety.Among the do’s list, it has asked to close windows, vents, and other openings to prevent embers from entering.
“Move animals and valuable goods to safer locations. After adventure activities, ensure that no bonfire or flame is left unattended,” read the guidelines.While among the don’ts, it has asked to avoid smoking near vegetation or forested areas and not to panic in case of a sudden fire. Refrain from entering the forest during a fire incident.
With regard to prevention and preparedness measures, it has asked to keep emergency contact numbers of district fire services and forest authorities readily available.“Immediately inform authorities in case of an unattended or uncontrolled fire. Never leave a fire unattended in the vicinity of forested areas,” read the guidelines.
Highlighting the evacuation protocol in case of fire, the guidelines have asked that in case of an active forest fire, evacuate immediately if instructed by local authorities and protect yourself from flying sparks and ashes.It has also asked to untie cattle and livestock to allow them to escape safely.
Before Leaving Your House, the guidelines have outlined how to remove combustible materials like firewood, yard waste, gas cylinders, and fuel cans from your yard.It has also asked not to attempt to outrun the fire and seek refuge in a pond or river if available.
“If no water is nearby, lie in a depression with little vegetation and cover yourself with wet clothes, blankets, or soil. Breathe through a moist cloth to avoid smoke inhalation,” read the guidelines—(KNO)
According to the Chief Engineer, Distribution, KPDCL, for construction widening/ strengthening of 02 lane by BEACON, the shutdown of 33KV Amargarh Watergam line shall be observed due to which 33/11KV Receiving Stations at Ganapora, Hachipora, Watergam, Hadipora and Safalpora shall remain off while power supply to Ganapora, Hachipora, Watergam, Hadipora, Safalpora and adjoining areas will be affected from 09:30 AM to 03:30 PM on 15 April, 2025.
Similarly, to carry out shifting of utilities by BEACON on Kupwara Chowkibal near Bypass, the shutdown of 33KV Handwara-HOT line shall be observed due to which 33/11KV Receiving Stations at Handwara, Chogul and Pohrupeth shall remain off while power supply to the Handwara, Chogul, Pohrupeth and adjoining areas will be affected from from 09:30 AM to 03:30 PM on 14 April, 2025.
Further, shutdown for R/stn to install new 6.3 MVA Power Transformer, the shutdown of 33KV Bandipora line shall be observed due to which 33/11KV Receiving Station at Tujjar shall remain off while power supply to Harwan, Tujjar Shrine and adjoining areas will be affected from 09:30 AM to 03:30 PM on 08 April, 2025.
Also, to carry out replacement/ repair of 1500 mm Nominal Dia rising and corridor for lift irrigation Rafiabad, the shutdown of 33KV SIDCO line shall be observed due to which 33/11KV Receiving Station at Rohama Chakloo shall remain off while power supply to Rohama Chakloo and adjoining areas will be affected from 09:30 AM to 03:30 PM on 10 April, 2025.
Moreover, to facilitate the work of laying of conductor on 11 KV fixtures mounted on 33 KV Poles from Narpora to Chudrigund for shifting of load from the overloaded Kanir Zoohama feeder on Receiving Station Hafroo, the shutdown of 33KV Nagam Hafroo Tap line shall be observed due to which 33/11KV Receiving Station at Hafroo shall remain off while power supply to the Hafroo, Lolipora, Watkul, Darwan, Shopora and adjoining areas will be affected from 09:30 AM to 05:00 PM on 07 &10 April, 2025.
The ruling National Conference (NC) and its alliance partners convened a legislative party meeting in Srinagar on Friday, where they passed two significant resolutions, calling on the central government to respect the democratic mandate of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The nearly two-hour-long meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, was held at the residence of Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary in Gupkar. National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah, cabinet ministers, all NC MLAs, four Congress legislators led by Chief Whip Nizamuddin Bhat, and independent lawmakers who support the government, were present.
The meeting comes amid growing tensions between the Raj Bhawan and the six-month-old NC-led government, especially after recent administrative decisions taken by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha. The meeting also assumes importance ahead of Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s scheduled three-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir starting April 6. Speaking to the media after the meeting, NC Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq announced that two resolutions had been unanimously passed. The first resolution strongly rejected the Waqf Amendment Bill, 2025, calling it discriminatory and against the interests of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. The second resolution urged the BJP-led central government to respect the democratic will of the people, an apparent reference to the recent administrative decisions made by the Lieutenant Governor’s office. “We want to run the government with love and respect. But our silence should not be seen as our weakness,” Tanvir Sadiq said. “We are coordinating with the LG administration and the Government of India, but we will not tolerate any unjust or one-sided decisions. Don’t push us to the wall.” He further said that the alliance remains united in defending the rights and aspirations of the people and will continue to engage constructively with the administration. Congress leader and MLA Bandipora Nizamuddin Bhat, who also attended the meeting, said that all lawmakers are united and fully support the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. “We met to discuss both political and administrative matters that impact the people of Jammu and Kashmir,” Bhat said. He added that both long-term and short-term issues were discussed. Bhat informed that two senior Congress leaders could not attend the meeting as they were preparing for another important meeting in Delhi. “They asked me to represent the party on their behalf,” Bhat said. He further added that matters related to the Waqf Board, the need for a people-driven government, and public sentiments were discussed in detail. “We want to make it clear that even though some forces may try to disturb peace, we are united to protect democracy,” he said. Calling the legislature a strong and credible institution that holds the people’s mandate, Bhat urged all political parties to stand together in maintaining peace and working for the development of Jammu and Kashmir.
The Central government has ruled out any possibility of reconsidering its advisory prohibiting Indian nationals and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) with medical degrees from Pakistan from seeking employment or higher education in India.
In reply to a question of NC MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi in the Lok Sabha, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has said that the public notice issued by the National Medical Commission (NMC) on April 28, 2022, remains operational.
According to the Ministry, however, candidates enrolled in Pakistani medical colleges before December 2018 or those who obtained security clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) are eligible to appear in India’s Foreign Medical Graduate Examination (FMGE) or pursue employment in the country.
The government has, however, clarified that an exception has been made for migrants and their children who have acquired Indian citizenship and hold degrees from Pakistan and have been given the required security clearance.
A landmark meeting of District Congress Committee (DCC) Presidents was held at the AICC headquarters, Indira Bhawan, New Delhi, in the presence of Congress President Mr. Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition Mr. Rahul Gandhi and other senior party leaders.
During the session, Mr.Mallikarjun Kharge and Mr.Rahul Gandhi addressed the gathering and stressed the importance of strengthening the Congress organization at the district level.They emphasized that a robust and active grassroots structure is crucial for the party’s future success and public outreach.
In a separate consultative session,the Jammu & Kashmir Congress leadership, including all DCC Presidents, met with AICC J&K Incharge General Secretary Mr. Nasir, JKPCC President Mr. Tariq Hameed Karra, senior leader and former JKPCC President Mr. Ghulam Ahmad Mir and other key office bearers. The meeting was seen as a pivotal step toward party reorganization in the Union Territory.
Discussions focused on the current political scenario in J&K, strategies for strengthening the party at the grassroots, addressing public issues, and outlining a roadmap for the future.
A major decision during the meetings was to grant greater autonomy to District Presidents in appointing and reshuffling local office bearers.This move is part of a wider decentralization initiative aimed at revitalizing the party’s grassroots leadership.
District Congress Committee President Bandipora, Mr. Mushtaq Tantary, who actively participated in the meetings, expressed gratitude for being part of the important deliberations. “This historic gathering will certainly infuse a new spirit of dedication and hard work among all of us. It’s an honor to be part of this new chapter in the Congress party’s journey,” he said.
The Congress leadership reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing the party’s presence and performance across Jammu & Kashmir through collective vision, strategic planning and grassroots empowerment.
As forest fires continue to engulf large parts of Kashmir, the crisis has laid bare a worrying reality — frontline workers from the Forest, Wildlife, and allied departments are battling the flames with little more than sticks, spades, and their bare hands. With no access to modern firefighting equipment or basic protective gear, these workers are risking their lives to protect the region’s fragile forests.
The Valley has witnessed a sharp rise in forest fires in recent weeks, fuelled by prolonged dry weather, rising temperatures, and unregulated camping and human activity. From Lidder and Kokernag to Shangus and Tral, large swathes of forest land have been affected, resulting in extensive damage to biodiversity and green cover.
But the firefighting response has been alarmingly underprepared. Employees tasked with controlling the flames say they have no specialised tools — not even gloves, helmets, or fire-resistant clothing. “We don’t have any equipment for firefighting,” said a group of low-rank employees who wished to remain anonymous. “We are handed sticks and spades and told to stop the fire. Sometimes, not even that.”
One casual labourer shared a particularly harrowing experience: “While everyone was celebrating Eid, we were in the jungles, fighting fires through the night. We weren’t given gloves, jackets or even proper shoes. We risk our lives every time, and yet our wages are often delayed for months.”
Besides the Forest and Wildlife departments, workers from the Social Forestry Department and Forest Protection Force (FPF) have also been actively participating in firefighting efforts. But the lack of proper tools and safety protocols has only made the situation more difficult.
A senior forest official, acknowledging the severe gaps, said: “We are facing an acute shortage of equipment. We don’t even have a single fire extinguisher in some divisions.” He listed the essential firefighting tools still missing, including fire beaters, fire hooks, fire blankets, gum boots, fire-resistant suits, gloves, breathing apparatus, water hoses, and fire suppression tools.
Despite the challenges, many of these workers continue to show up, driven by a sense of duty and love for nature. Local volunteers have also joined in, lending a helping hand during major fires, but the absence of trained personnel and proper safety measures only increases the risk of injury and exhaustion.
Chief Conservator of Forests, Irfan Rasool, stated that some basic tools are provided and said, “A spade is quite effective in preventing fire from spreading.” However, he also admitted that casual labourers often go without essential safety gear such as fire jackets, gloves, and boots — essentials in any firefighting scenario.
The ongoing situation calls for urgent government attention. Experts say a robust and well-funded forest fire control mechanism is the need of the hour. This includes the procurement of modern firefighting tools, training for frontline workers, timely disbursal of salaries, and proper safety equipment to prevent avoidable injuries and fatalities.
As the fires continue to blaze and the forests of Kashmir suffer irreversible damage, the bravery of these under-equipped workers is commendable — but it should not come at the cost of their safety or dignity.
For the ‘last time,’ the National Conference (NC) led ruling alliance on Friday warned New Delhi against pushing them to the wall, urging the Centre to respect the mandate of the elected government.
The warning came after a two-hour closed-door meeting of NC legislators and its key allies, including Congress, the Communist Party of India (Marxist) and independents. The meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah alongside NC president Farooq Abdullah, came amid the brewing standoff with the Raj Bhawan over the transfer of 48 middle-rung officers in Jammu and Kashmir.
The legislators discussed a range of pressing issues, including key restoration of statehood and the Waqf bill, besides the delay in clearance of Business Rules by the Home Ministry.
Addressing a hurried presser after the meeting, National Conference Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq, alongside Congress legislator Nizamudin Bhat, said the alliance has passed two resolutions, including opposing the Waqf amendment bill and demanding the central government to respect the people’s democratic mandate.
“This Waqf Bill is against Muslims and minorities in the country. We oppose it,” he said. “Another critical issue was the mandate given by the people of Jammu and Kashmir to the NC-led government. We once again reiterate that the Government of India respects the mandate. It is non-negotiable,” said Sadiq.
The draft rules meant for the demarcation of powers between Raj Bhawan and the elected government have been pending with the Home Ministry since March, with the government expecting these rules to remove the faceoff like the one over the transfer of 48 middle-rung officers this week.
“We are making this appeal for the last time not as a request but as a firm warning. Do not push us to the wall and respect the people’s mandate, which the Prime Minister and Home Minister always praise,” said Sadiq, who is an NC MLA from Srinagar’s Zadibal.
Also, he said they saw the Waqf Amendment bill passed by the Parliament as a direct attack on Muslims and their faith in Jammu and Kashmir.
“Our coordination with the Lieutenant Governor and New Delhi should not be misinterpreted. We are trying to maintain dignity in governance, but that should not be taken as a sign of political weakness or submission,” Sadiq added.
The second stint of the J&K Assembly session will begin in Jammu next week, with the Alliance supporting two resolutions, including one for pressing the Centre for restoration of statehood to J&K and another opposing the controversial Waqf Amendment bill to be moved in the House.
Interestingly, National Conference legislator and the chief minister’s close aide Tanvir Sadiq has also moved a private member’s bill in the Assembly against the Waqf Amendment bill passed in the Parliament.
Though it could not be officially confirmed, it is expected that the session might be extended to accommodate discussions on these issues.
On Wednesday, the Chief Minister sent letters to the Home Minister and the J&K Chief Secretary regarding the bypassing of the ‘competent authority,’ which is the Chief Minister himself, in the transfer of officers from the Jammu and Kashmir Administrative Services. Their transfer, according to the J&K Reorganisation Act 2019, falls within the ambit of the Chief Minister. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, however, oversees the All India Services.
Member of Parliament from Srinagar, Aga Ruhullah Mehdi, has strongly condemned the recently passed Waqf Bill, calling it an act of “state-sponsored dispossession” against Muslims in India.
In a statement issued on April 4, Mehdi accused the ruling RSS-BJP government of reaffirming its “anti-Muslim and anti-minority intent” by passing the Bill in what he described as “the den of the night.” He argued that a party without a single Muslim MP has “no moral or political right” to speak for Muslims.
He further criticized the proceedings in Parliament, stating that as a Kashmiri Muslim voice, he was denied the opportunity to speak.
He blamed the floor leader of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) for monopolizing the discussion, leaving no space for his intervention. Mehdi described this as “structural marginalization,” which, he said, had caused deep anguish among his constituents.
Expressing concerns over the impact of the legislation, Mehdi stated that taking away Waqf autonomy, abolishing “Waqf by user,” and allowing land grabbers to claim Muslim properties amounted to targeted displacement.
“My fight against this belligerent and bigoted attack on Muslims will continue to grow stronger,” he affirmed. (KNS
The Meteorological Centre Srinagar on Friday Predicted a mix of dry and wet weather over the next few days in Jammu and Kashmir.
According to MeT Centre, Kashmir will see generally dry weather from April 4-7, followed by cloudy skies with a possibility of light rain and snow in higher reaches, particularly in North and Central Kashmir, on April 08 and widespread light rain and snow expected in Kashmir Division, with scattered showers in Jammu Division on April 9.
Scattered light rain and snow are expected on April 10-11, before dry weather returns from April 12-15.
The Met Centre Srinagar has issued an advisory, urging travelers, tourists, and transporters to follow administrative and traffic advisories, while farmers are advised to continue with farm operations.
The Mohammed Rizwan-led Pakistan has been fined five per cent of their match fee for slow over-rate during the second ODI against New Zealand in Hamilton on Wednesday.
Jeff Crowe of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees imposed the sanction after the visiting side was found to be one over short of the target after the time allowances were taken into consideration.
As per Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which governs minimum over-rate offences, players are fined five per cent of their match fees for each over their team falls short of bowling in the stipulated time.
Skipper Rizwan pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the sanction, eliminating the need for a formal hearing.
The charge was levelled by on-field umpires Michael Gough and Wayne Knights, along with third umpire Paul Reiffel and fourth umpire Chris Brown.
This is the second consecutive instance when Pakistan have been fined for a slow over-rate. In the first ODI against New Zealand in Napier, which the visitors lost by 73 runs, the team was found to be two overs short of the target after time allowances were considered.
Trailing 1-0 in the series, Pakistan were bested by 84 runs as Mitchell Hay scored a career-best 99* to help the hosts post 292/8 in the first innings. Ben Sears led New Zealand’s charge with the ball, registering career-best figures of 5/59 to help bowl out Pakistan for 208, despite resistance by Faheem Ashraf (73) and Naseem Shah (51) down the order.
The third ODI between the two sides is scheduled for Saturday, April 5, in Mount Maunganui. (ANI)
In a dramatic turn of events, the Lok Sabha passed the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in the early hours of Thursday, following an intense 12-hour debate. The bill, which has been at the center of heated discussions, was passed with 288 votes in favor and 232 against, after the rejection of all amendments proposed by the opposition.
While the ruling NDA government claimed that the bill would streamline the management of Waqf properties and ensure transparency, the opposition strongly criticized it, calling it “anti-Muslim” and a violation of religious rights. The passage of the bill led to a major uproar, with opposition parties accusing the government of pushing forward an agenda that allegedly curtails the rights of minorities.
Key Provisions of the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2025
The bill introduces several changes to the existing Waqf laws, including:
Strengthening Waqf Tribunals to speed up dispute resolution.
Structured selection process for members of Waqf boards.
Fixed tenure for Waqf board members to ensure stability.
Reduced mandatory contribution of Waqf institutions to Waqf boards from 7% to 5%.
State-appointed auditors to monitor Waqf institutions earning over ₹1 lakh annually.
A centralized digital portal for managing Waqf properties, enhancing transparency.
Restoration of pre-2013 rules, allowing only practising Muslims (for at least five years) to dedicate property to Waqf.
Mandatory inheritance rights for women before a property is declared as Waqf, with special provisions for widows, divorced women, and orphans.
Investigation of Waqf claims on government properties by officers above the rank of collector.
Appointment of non-Muslim members to state and central Waqf boards to promote inclusivity.
Government’s Justification for the Bill
Home Minister Amit Shah defended the bill, asserting that it does not interfere with religious rights. He stated:
“To those who claim that the bill discriminates or infringes on religious rights, I want to make it clear that nothing like this will happen.”
Union Minister Kiren Rijiju also justified the bill, saying that the changes were necessary because the UPA-era amendments had given the Waqf Act overriding power over other laws. He also took a dig at the opposition for misleading people over the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA), saying:
“Tell me now, citizenship rights of how many Muslims were taken away since CAA came into force? Not even one.”
Opposition’s Strong Reaction
Opposition parties, including the Congress, TMC, AIMIM, and DMK, fiercely opposed the bill. They accused the government of trying to weaken the Waqf system and targeting the Muslim community under the guise of reforms.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi criticized the bill, calling it an attack on religious freedom. He stated:
“This is an attempt to control Waqf properties and interfere in Muslim religious affairs.”
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi strongly opposed the provision allowing non-Muslims on Waqf boards, calling it unconstitutional.
The Bigger Political Picture
With the 2025 general elections approaching, the passage of the bill has triggered a political storm. The ruling BJP aims to project the bill as a reform for transparency, while the opposition views it as a polarizing move to consolidate votes. The issue is expected to dominate upcoming political debates, protests, and election campaigns.
Conclusion
The Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, has ignited fierce debates across political and religious circles. While the government argues that it will bring transparency and inclusivity, the opposition sees it as an infringement on religious rights. As the bill moves to the Rajya Sabha for approval, all eyes are on how the upper house will respond to this controversial legislation.
In a major crackdown on drug-related crimes, Rajouri Police has attached/seized property worth approximately ₹53 lakhs including a triple-storey residential house and a car, belonging to a notorious drug peddler.
The action was taken by a police team from Police Station Rajouri led by the Station House Officer under the supervision of DySP Headquarters Rajouri following a thorough inquiry. The property was identified as illegally acquired through proceeds from narcotics trade.
The accused Haroon Rashid S/O Abdul Rashid resident of Ward No.2 Rajouri who had amassed these assets through illegal drug trade. Acting swiftly Rajouri Police invoked Section 68(F) of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985 leading to the attachment/seizure of the said properties.
Rajouri Police remains committed to its zero-tolerance policy against drug trafficking and is actively working to curb the menace of narcotics in District Rajouri. Such actions will continue to ensure that individuals involved in illegal drug activities face Strict Legal Consequences.
Jammu and Kashmir People’s Conference President and MLA Handwara, Sajad Gani Lone, stated on Wednesday that the state should not interfere with religion and that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill is a matter of religion.
“The Waqf property is collectively owned by the Muslims of the country. It is the right of the Muslims to decide on these (properties) by using their institutions and systems. The state should not have any interference with the religion. We do not advocate with any religion and neither with our religion. It is gross interference. It is our matter,” Lone told ANI.
“It is a matter of our religion,” he asserted, adding “We do not know what are they (Central government) are up to? Who are they looking to appease?”
Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) on Wednesday strongly opposed the Waqf Amendment Bill and lashed out at the BJP, stating that a party which do not have a single Muslim MP in the Lok Sabha is ironically going to protect the rights of the minorities.
Speaking during a discussion on the Waqf (Amendment) Bill in the Lok Sabha, DMK MP A Raja said, “The irony is that the rights of the minorities are going to be protected by a party which has no member of a Muslim community.”
“Today, it is a remarkable day for the Indian Parliament to decide our destiny whether this secular country is going to travel in the path which was well written by the forefathers of the Constitution or a negative path decided by the communal forces in the country,” he said.
Meanwhile, introducing the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, in the Lok Sabha, Union Minister Kiren Rijiju questioned why Waqf properties haven’t been used to develop the nation and Muslims. There is no Muslim MP to introduce the Bill. They are not able to produce as single member of Muslim community and they are giving morals as how secularism can be protected.”
Rijiju said that India has the highest number of Waqf properties in the world and questioned why they haven’t been used for the education, medical treatment, skill development, and income generation of poor Muslims.
“When our country has the largest Waqf property in the world, why hasn’t it been used for the education, medical treatment, skill development, and income generation of poor Muslims? Why has no progress been made in this regard so far?” Rijiju said in Lok Sabha.
Rijiju also questioned the Opposition’s objections to the PM Modi-led government working for the betterment of Muslims.
Rijiju also noted that the number of Waqf properties has doubled in the country, and their income has also increased.
Along with the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, Rijiju also moved the Mussalman Wakf (Repeal) Bill, 2024, for consideration and passing in the Lok Sabha.
The bill was earlier presented in the Lok Sabha last August, and a Joint Parliamentary Committee, headed by BJP member Jagdambika Pal, had examined it.
The bill seeks to amend the Act of 1995, and improve the administration and management of Waqf properties in India. It aims to overcome the shortcomings of the previous act and enhance the efficiency of Waqf boards, improving the registration process and increasing the role of technology in managing Waqf records. (ANI)
As the Union government tabled the Waqf (Amendment) Bill, 2025, for discussions and passage on Wednesday, Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said that if the bill is passed, it will deprive the Muslim community of control over Waqf assets as well as their administration.
He strongly opposed the controversial amendments to the existing law (Waqf Act, 1995) and stated that the ongoing legislation is completely unnecessary.
In his statement, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said, “The government claims that this amendment bill is intended to improve the administration of Waqf properties and ensure transparency. No one opposes measures for better management and transparency, but such legislation is not necessary. Improvement and transparency can be achieved without amending the existing Waqf Act.”
He added, “Once the Waqf Amendment Bill is passed, Waqf boards will be required to register their properties with district collectors to ensure accurate valuation. Additionally, all members of the Waqf board will be appointed by the government. Clearly, once the bill becomes law, the community will lose control over Waqf boards, allowing the government to take over their administration—an outright interference in the religious affairs of the Muslim community.”
