In a coordinated effort, the Jammu and Kashmir Police, in collaboration with the Indian Army and CRPF, successfully apprehended a terrorist associate in North Kashmir’s Bandipora district. The operation resulted in the seizure of arms and ammunition from the individual.
The Bandipora Police shared details of the operation on their official platform, stating, “In a joint operation, Indian Army, Bandipora Police, and CRPF arrested one terrorist associate along with arms & ammunition. Case registered under relevant section of law in PS Pethkote.”
The arrest underscores the ongoing efforts by security forces to maintain peace and security in the region amidst persistent threats posed by terrorism.
Nestled in the heart of Srinagar, Kashmir, stands Nedou’s Hotel, a silent sentinel that has witnessed the ebb and flow of history for centuries. Claimed as Asia’s oldest hospitality establishment, its walls hold whispers of bygone eras – colonial extravagance, the birth of a conflict, and the delicate dance of Cold War politics. This isn’t just a hotel; it’s a living tapestry woven with stories of intrigue, romance, and the unyielding spirit of Kashmir.
From Adriatic Shores to the Enchanting Valley
The tale begins with Michael Adam Nedou, an architect-explorer from Ragusa (present-day Dubrovnik, Croatia). His adventurous spirit led him to Lahore, where he built a charming property, now known as the Avari Hotel. But destiny had something more magical in store. Drawn by the ethereal beauty of Gulmarg, Kashmir, Nedou constructed a haven in the meadows in the 1880s. His vision didn’t stop there. A few years later, he built the magnificent Srinagar property, prompting the ruling Dogra Maharaja to build his own palace nearby, as if acknowledging the hotel’s grandeur.
A Family Rooted in Kashmir’s Soil
Nedou’s love affair with Kashmir deepened with his son, Harry. He defied societal norms, falling in love with a local beauty named Mir Jan. Their interfaith marriage, with Harry converting to Islam, further cemented the Nedou family’s ties to the land. This wasn’t the only love story etched in the hotel’s history. Their daughter, Akbar Jehan, married Sheikh Muhammad Abdullah, a pivotal figure in Kashmir’s political landscape. Abdullah led the fight against the Dogra monarchy, later accepting India’s position on Kashmir. Their grandson, Omar Abdullah, became the Chief Minister and currently leads the opposition, showcasing the family’s enduring presence in Kashmir’s political narrative.
A Century of Hospitality, a Period of Uncertainty
For over a century, Nedou’s thrived, welcoming dignitaries, business elites, and Maharajas from across India. Its doors echoed with laughter and the clinking of glasses. However, the 1988-89 armed conflict in Kashmir forced a temporary closure. The Nedou family relocated to New Delhi, and the property, like countless others, was used as a CRPF camp for over two decades. Even today, a part of the hotel remains under their control.
A Glimmer of Hope: Rebuilding the Legacy
In 2007, a new chapter began. The Nedous revived a decades-old agreement with ITC, a prominent Indian hospitality group. Plans were set in motion to renovate and restore the hotel to its former glory. This year, with Chief Minister Mufti Muhammad Sayeed laying the foundation stone, ITC announced a complete redesign and rebuild of Nedou’s. This 250-crore project promises to see the hotel reborn within three years.
An Unmatched Legacy: Grandeur in Stone and Chinar Trees
Sprawling across Maulana Azad Road, Nedou’s is a testament to architectural brilliance. The multi-block, two-storey structure encompasses over 100 kanals (approximately 12.5 acres) of land. Towering chinar trees and sprawling fruit orchards create an idyllic haven, an oasis even by modern standards. “We want to preserve the imperial character of the property,” says Dilnavaz Nedou, the current custodian. “The colonial grandeur will be revived, but with all the modern amenities guests expect.”
Echoes From the Past: Viceroys and Cold War Whispers
The Nedou family cherishes its rich history. They claim to have hosted Lord Mountbatten, the last Viceroy of India, and his wife Edwina. A magnificent 300-piece dinner set handcrafted in England for the viceregal couple serves as a tangible reminder of this visit. Beyond royalty, Nedou’s welcomed prominent figures like the Maharajas of Indore, Gwalior, and Kolhapur, further solidifying its position as a premier social hub.
A Museum of Memories, Weathered but Not Broken
Nedou’s also witnessed the Cold War’s shadow. In 1955, it played host to a high-profile Russian delegation led by Nikolai Aleksandrovich Bulganin and Nikita Sergeyevich Khrushchev, both future Premiers of the USSR. The then Prime Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Bakshi Ghulam Mohammad, and Sadr-e-Riyasat Karan Singh received the delegation, with Indira Gandhi personally overseeing arrangements in Srinagar, highlighting the hotel’s central role in even international affairs.
On the occasion of National Technology Day, the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) in Srinagar, under the aegis of the Jammu & Kashmir Legal Services Authority (JKLSA), orchestrated an impactful Awareness and Capacity Building Program. The initiative aimed to shed light on the remarkable progress achieved in the Justice Delivery System through the e-Court Project.
Guided by Jawad Ahmed, Chairman of DLSA Srinagar, the event unfolded at the District Court Complex in Srinagar, drawing the active participation of various stakeholders. Among them were Jawad Ahmed himself, serving as Chairman of DLSA Srinagar, alongside Jahangir Ahmad Bakshi, Secretary of DLSA Srinagar, and a host of staff members and Para Legal Volunteers (PLVs) of DLSA Srinagar. Notably, the event also welcomed eager law students from the University of Kashmir, Kashmir Law College, and Vitasta Law College Nowgam Srinagar.
In his special address, Chairman Jawad Ahmed underscored the vital role of training and capacity building, especially for law students and other stakeholders, in adapting to technological advancements within the justice delivery system. He emphasized the urgent need for integrating technological tools into the system to enhance efficiency and accessibility.
Secretary Jahangir Ahmad Bakshi echoed these sentiments, stressing the importance of engaging law students in understanding and utilizing the latest technological developments in legal practice. This, he argued, would ensure their preparedness to navigate the evolving landscape of legal proceedings.
A highlight of the program was a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation delivered by Tariq Ahmad Malik, the System Officer at the District Court Complex, Srinagar. Malik showcased the array of e-Court services available to various stakeholders under the e-Court Project. The presentation elucidated how technology has streamlined processes, expanded access to justice, and bolstered efficiency in the legal system.
The event also facilitated interactive sessions, providing participants with practical insights into the application of IT tools in legal proceedings. Moreover, it served as a catalyst for fostering collaboration between the legal fraternity and technology experts, aiming to achieve a more transparent, accessible, and efficient justice system.
In a significant development, police in Jammu and Kashmir’s Shopian district announced the apprehension of two terrorist associates, along with the seizure of incriminating material, during a joint Naka checking operation conducted by Shopian Police, 44RR, and 14BN CRPF at Malik Chek crossing. The District Police Shopian shared the news via a post on X, stating, “During joint Naka checking by Shopian Police, 44RR & 14BN CRPF at Malik Chek crossing 02 terrorist associates apprehended along with incriminating material.” Authorities have initiated legal proceedings by registering a First Information Report (FIR) under relevant sections of the law at Heerpora police station, with an investigation currently underway.
Meanwhile, in a separate incident, the Indian Army, alongside Special Operations Group (SOG) police personnel, conducted a thorough search operation in the Shahsitar area of the Poonch district on Friday. This operation follows a recent terror attack in Poonch, during which an Indian Air Force personnel lost their life while four others sustained injuries.
In response to these incidents, former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah criticized the BJP-led Centre, demanding accountability for the Poonch terror attack. Speaking at a rally in Kupwara’s Langate, Abdullah emphasized the resurgence of militancy in areas previously considered relatively peaceful, such as Srinagar, Rajouri, and Poonch.
The recent attack in Poonch comes just days ahead of the Lok Sabha elections in the Rajouri-Anantnag constituency, scheduled for May 25 in the sixth phase. Jammu and Kashmir comprises a total of five Lok Sabha seats: Baramulla, Srinagar, Anantnag-Rajouri, Udhampur, and Jammu, with voting taking place over five phases.
The 2024 Lok Sabha elections are being conducted in seven phases, spanning from April 19 to June 1. The counting of votes and announcement of results are slated for June 4. (ANI)
The Jammu and Kashmir electoral authority has summoned PDP candidate Waheed Para over remarks encouraging Kashmiri youth to view the general elections as a form of “referendum” to convey a message to New Delhi. They cautioned him against statements that could exacerbate communal divides.
In a notice issued by the Model Code of Conduct officer, Para was given a two-day window to provide clarification. The notice emphasized the potential of Para’s statements to fuel tensions among communities and disturb societal harmony. Failure to address the concerns raised could lead to legal repercussions.
Para defended his stance, asserting his commitment to the Indian Constitution and democratic principles. He explained that his use of the term “referendum” aimed to galvanize voter participation rather than promote separatism. Para criticized the notice as an attempt to suppress dissenting voices and reaffirmed his dedication to mainstream politics in Kashmir.
He argued that “referendum” is a legitimate term in political discourse, particularly in contexts where there is a perceived lack of political representation. Para underscored the importance of addressing the grievances of Kashmiri youth and reiterated his adherence to constitutional norms.
Inspector General V K Bhirdi, addressing a select group of reporters in his office chambers, reiterated the commitment of ensuring comprehensive security arrangements for the upcoming Kashmir polls. As reported by Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Bhirdi emphasized the meticulous planning undertaken to facilitate smooth polling and encourage high voter turnout.
“All necessary security measures have been meticulously addressed,” Bhirdi assured, highlighting the importance of inter-district check-points and reinforced area dominance strategies. The collaborative efforts of police and Central forces were underscored in fortifying security infrastructure to maintain a peaceful atmosphere across all three phases of elections in Kashmir.
Adhering to the guidelines set by the Election Commission of India (ECI), Bhirdi affirmed that security deployments were aligned with prescribed protocols, ensuring foolproof arrangements. Looking ahead, he outlined plans to intensify frisking operations and bolster area dominance to thwart any disruptive activities by anti-peace elements.
The electoral schedule for Kashmir entails polling in the Srinagar Lok Sabha constituency on May 13, followed by north Kashmir and South Kashmir seats on May 19 and May 25, respectively. Bhirdi’s reassurance reflects the collective endeavor to uphold the integrity of the electoral process and foster a conducive environment for democratic participation.
In a proactive move to address the pressing issue of drug-related offenses, Handwara Police has taken a significant step by deploying GPS-enabled anklets on individuals who have been bailed out in UAPA (Unlawful Activities Prevention Act) cases. This innovative approach aims to bolster surveillance efforts, allowing authorities to closely monitor the movements of these individuals and ensure compliance with bail conditions.
Following a directive from the Hon’ble Court, Handwara Police proceeded to affix a GPS tracking device onto an individual recently granted bail in a UAPA case at the Handwara Police Station. The decision to employ this technology underscores the commitment of law enforcement to maintain vigilance over individuals involved in serious criminal cases, even after they have been released on bail.
The individual in question had been apprehended in connection with a UAPA case, and following due legal process, had obtained bail. However, recognizing the potential risks associated with such cases, authorities opted to utilize GPS anklets as a preventive measure. These anklets will enable continuous tracking of the individual’s movements, thereby minimizing the likelihood of any breach of bail conditions or involvement in illicit activities.
By implementing this measure, Handwara Police aims to enhance both public safety and the efficacy of the criminal justice system. The utilization of GPS technology provides a proactive means of monitoring individuals with a history of involvement in serious offenses, thereby deterring potential violations and contributing to the overall security of the community.
This initiative reflects the dedication of law enforcement agencies in Handwara to adopt innovative strategies in the ongoing fight against crime, particularly in cases involving drug-related offenses and threats to national security. As technology continues to evolve, authorities remain steadfast in their commitment to leveraging advancements to safeguard society and uphold the rule of law.
In a spirited display of support, followers of detained former lawmaker Engineer Sheikh Abdul Rashid organized a vibrant road show stretching from Baramulla to Uri as part of their electoral campaign for the Lok Sabha elections.
Leading the charge was Engineer Rashid’s 26-year-old son, Abrar Rashid, spearheading the rally covering a 50-kilometer route. Addressing enthusiastic crowds along the way, Abrar emphasized the grassroots nature of their movement, reliant not on flashy banners or vehicles, but on the steadfast support of the people. “Today’s vote is not just for my father, but for his unwavering spirit and the injustices he fights against,” he declared.
Engineer Rashid, a vocal advocate from Langate, has spent five years behind bars in Tihar jail, known for championing the rights of the common people and vehemently opposing alleged human rights abuses. A formidable figure in North Kashmir politics, he is contesting the Lok Sabha elections from Baramulla as an independent candidate.
Former legislator Shoiab Lone, representing the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP), stood alongside Engineer Rashid’s supporters during the roadshow, rallying for his cause both on the streets and on social media platforms. Confident in the loyalty of voters from Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora, and Budgam, Lone expressed optimism in their steadfast support.
Despite facing formidable challenges, including his arrest by the NIA in 2019 on charges related to terror funding, Engineer Rashid remains undeterred, symbolized by his campaign emblem—a pressure cooker. His entry into the electoral fray adds a dynamic element to the contest, potentially reshaping the political landscape in the region and posing a significant challenge to established parties like the NC and others.
In the coming days, Jammu and Kashmir anticipates a continuation of dry weather for the next 24 hours, with prospects of light rain in the plains and snowfall in higher elevations expected on May 11 and 12. The night temperatures in the region saw a rise on Thursday, according to a meteorological department official.
The official highlighted that dry conditions are likely to persist until May 10, with a possibility of thunderstorms during the afternoon. From May 11 onwards, partly to generally cloudy weather with light rain and snow in higher regions is predicted at numerous locations, with some areas possibly experiencing moderate rainfall on May 12. Farmers are advised to suspend farm operations during these two days.
On May 13, the forecast suggests partly to generally cloudy weather with light rain in a few places, followed by generally dry conditions from May 14 to 17.
Regarding temperatures, Srinagar saw a low of 12.4°C, Qazigund recorded 10.0°C, Pahalgam experienced 6.6°C, Kokernag measured 10.8°C, Kupwara registered 8.8°C, and Gulmarg noted 8.6°C. Jammu recorded a low of 26.5°C, while Banihal, Batote, and Bhaderwah reported 13.0°C, 16.0°C, and 12.8°C respectively.
In a tragic incident on Thursday morning, a fatal accident occurred involving an auto vehicle traveling from Gool to Sangaldan. The vehicle lost control and plunged into a deep gorge in Sangaldan, resulting in devastating consequences.
According to police officials, the driver, identified as Tanveer Ah. (22), son of Ab. Latief, tragically lost his life at the scene of the accident. Additionally, two passengers, Tahir Ahmad and Sahil Ahmad, who were brothers of the deceased driver, sustained injuries and were promptly transported to PHC Sangaldan for urgent medical treatment.
All three individuals involved in the accident hailed from Salbala/Gool. Police investigations suggest that the accident was caused by over-speeding, leading to the driver’s inability to maintain control of the vehicle.
