NOK Desk

News

Emotional Scenes Unfold as Pilgrims Begin Sacred Journey from Bemina’s Hajj House Today

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In a poignant scene at the Hajj House in Bemina, emotions ran high as the initial wave of pilgrims commenced their sacred expedition earlier today. Gathered in accordance with the schedule set by the KNO news agency, the first group of pilgrims convened at 8:30 AM to commence their journey.

Amidst tearful farewells and heartfelt prayers, families bid adieu to their beloved ones as they prepared to embark on this revered odyssey. The atmosphere was laden with solemnity and anticipation as these pilgrims readied themselves for the spiritual voyage ahead. Following this initial departure, the second batch of pilgrims is poised to assemble at 11:30 AM.

Dr. Shujhat Qureshi, the Executive Officer (EO) of J&K Haj Committee, disclosed that a total of 642 pilgrims are slated to depart from the Srinagar International Airport. Split across two flights, each accommodating 322 pilgrims, the departure marks the beginning of a sacred journey for each participant.

This year, a significant cohort of 7008 Hajj pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir will be embarking on this profound pilgrimage, signifying a momentous occasion for the region’s devout community.

News

Gunfire Resumes in Redwani Kulgam After 24-Hour Pause, ! Two Miltants Killed Previously

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indian army

In the Redwani area of Kulgam district in South Kashmir, a fresh exchange of gunfire erupted on Wednesday after approximately 24 hours of calm at the encounter site. According to a police officer, the confrontation reignited when a hiding terrorist opened fire on security forces while they were clearing debris from the area.

The officer stated that the exchange of fire is ongoing, with further details expected to be shared later as the situation develops.

This development comes after Tuesday’s operation where two militants belonging to The Resistance Front (TRF), including commander Basit Dar, were neutralized in the same encounter. Commander Basit Dar had a bounty of 10 lakh on his head.

The encounter in Redwani highlights the persistent security challenges faced in the region and the continued efforts of security forces to maintain peace and security amidst ongoing tensions.

News

AAP Leader Queries Indian Government Over Covishield Vaccine Amid Global Withdrawal

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Aam Aadmi Party leader Saurabh Bharadwaj raised concerns regarding the Indian government’s decision to continue the use of the Covishield vaccine despite bans imposed by several European nations due to reported side effects. Bharadwaj’s remarks came after AstraZeneca, the manufacturer of the vaccine, withdrew it from worldwide distribution following acknowledgment of a rare and dangerous side effect in court documents.

In a post on social media platform X, Bharadwaj highlighted that while many European countries had halted the use of Covishield in March 2021 due to reported side effects, the Indian government persisted in its administration. The withdrawal of the vaccine by AstraZeneca came after facing legal challenges in the UK.

AstraZeneca announced that the withdrawal was due to commercial reasons and stated that updated vaccines targeting new variants had superseded Covishield. The company’s application to withdraw the vaccine was filed on March 5 and took effect on May 7, resulting in its removal from markets where it had been authorized for use.

The decision to withdraw the vaccine was attributed to concerns over a very rare side effect causing blood clots and low blood platelet counts. AstraZeneca had previously acknowledged this side effect in court documents, referring to it as thrombosis with thrombocytopenia syndrome (TTS).

However, AstraZeneca denied any connection between the withdrawal and the TTS admission, terming the timing a coincidence. The company reaffirmed its commitment to patient safety and emphasized the overall safety profile of the vaccine.

Despite the rare occurrence of side effects, AstraZeneca reiterated that extensive clinical trial data and real-world evidence consistently supported the safety and efficacy of the vaccine. Regulatory agencies worldwide continue to endorse the vaccine’s use, maintaining that its benefits outweigh the risks of extremely rare side effects.

News

ACB Arrests Naib Tehsildar and Constable for Alleged Bribery in Pulwama Land Dispute

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Drug Smuggling 2 arrested

In a recent development, the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has made significant strides in combating corruption by apprehending a Naib Tehsildar and a Constable in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, for their alleged involvement in bribery.

The arrest came following a complaint received by the ACB, which detailed the extortion of Rs 10,000 by the Naib Tehsildar to settle a land dispute in the village of Sathpokhran, Khrew Pulwama. Despite the complainant’s repeated attempts to seek resolution through official channels, the Naib Tehsildar reportedly refused to cooperate and resorted to harassment tactics, including issuing notices.

Upon receiving the complaint, the ACB swiftly initiated action, registering a case under FIR number 02/2024 under section 7 of the Prevention of Corruption Act 1988. A thorough investigation was launched, and a trap team was formed to catch the accused in the act.

The trap operation proved successful as the team caught the Naib Tehsildar, Maqbool Hussain Dar, red-handed while accepting the bribe. Additionally, the Constable, Ajaz Ahmad, who was aiding in facilitating the offence, was also apprehended.

This arrest underscores the commitment of the ACB to root out corruption from all levels of governance and uphold the rule of law. It sends a strong message that no one is above the law, and those found guilty of corrupt practices will face the consequences.

The ACB’s prompt response to the complaint and its decisive action in apprehending the accused demonstrate its dedication to ensuring transparency, accountability, and justice in the administration. The bureau’s efforts in combating corruption are crucial for fostering trust among the public and maintaining the integrity of governmental institutions.

As the investigation into this case continues, it serves as a reminder of the importance of reporting instances of corruption and cooperating with law enforcement agencies to uphold ethical standards and promote good governance.

In conclusion, the ACB’s arrest of the Naib Tehsildar and Constable for alleged bribery in the Pulwama land dispute reaffirms the bureau’s commitment to combating corruption and restoring public trust in governmental institutions.

News

Jammu and Kashmir Weather Update: Dry and Hot Conditions Ahead with Potential Thundershowers

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Weatherman forecast

The meteorological department has issued a forecast for Jammu and Kashmir, indicating predominantly dry and hot weather for the next 24 hours and the following two days. However, there’s a possibility of thundershowers in some areas during the afternoon until May 10.

Looking ahead, on May 11, expect partly to generally cloudy weather with light rain and thunder in a few locations. May 12 could see generally cloudy conditions with light rain or snow in higher elevations and thunder in some areas.Moving to May 13, anticipate partly to generally cloudy weather with light rain expected in a few places.

Temperature-wise, Srinagar experienced a low of 10.5°C, slightly below the usual for this time of year. Similar trends were observed in Qazigund and Kupwara, with temperatures slightly below normal. However, Pahalgam and Kokernag recorded temperatures slightly above average.

Gulmarg, famous for its skiing, saw temperatures notably higher than usual. Meanwhile, Jammu experienced a cooler night than usual, with temperatures below the seasonal norm. Banihal, Batote, and Bhaderwah also reported temperatures consistent with the expected range.

Politics

Mehbooba Condemns BJP Amid Rising Militant Attacks in Pir Panchal; Questions Security Situation

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PDP President Mehbooba Mufti has launched a scathing criticism against the BJP, pointing to a surge in militant attacks in the Pir Panchal region. Speaking to reporters in Srinagar, Mufti expressed her condemnation of a recent attack in the area. She emphasized that under BJP rule, regions that were once peaceful and free from militancy are now experiencing heightened violence.

Mufti’s remarks underscored her concern over the deteriorating security situation in the Pir Panchal region, questioning why it has become a target for militant activities. She called on the BJP to provide answers regarding the security measures in place and the reasons behind the escalation of violence in previously tranquil areas.

The recent incident that prompted Mufti’s remarks involved the ambush of an Indian Air Force convoy in Shaistar, Poonch district. Tragically, one soldier lost his life, and four others sustained injuries in the attack. Following this incident, security forces launched a massive Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) across various parts of dense forests and adjoining areas.

Mufti’s criticism highlights the ongoing tensions between the PDP and BJP, particularly concerning security and governance issues in Jammu and Kashmir. As the situation in the Pir Panchal region remains tense, Mufti’s demand for accountability and action from the BJP underscores the need for effective measures to address the escalating violence and restore peace in the region.

News

Jammu and Kashmir Bank Hits Record Financial Growth in FY 2023-2024, CEO Announces

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The Managing Director and CEO of Jammu and Kashmir Bank, Baldev Prakash, revealed on Monday that the bank had achieved an unprecedented financial milestone, recording a growth of 17.67 crores during the fiscal year 2023-2024. This achievement stands as the highest in the bank’s 85-year history. Addressing reporters at the J&K Bank headquarters, Prakash expressed satisfaction in the bank’s continuous progress and its ability to reach new heights.

News

Security Forces Joint Operation Leads to Arrest of Armed Suspects in Shopia Kashmir

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Anti-National Activities

In a coordinated effort involving the Indian Army, Central Reserve Police Force, and Jammu and Kashmir Police, authorities successfully detained two individuals found in possession of weapons in Aloora, Shopian, Jammu and Kashmir, on Sunday.

The recovered arsenal included a pistol, two hand grenades, and additional warlike supplies, as confirmed by the army.

“In response to actionable intelligence, a Joint Mobile Vehicle Check Post (MVCP) was swiftly established today by #IndianArmy, @crpf_srinagar & @JmuKmrPolice at Aloora, Shopian. Two suspects were apprehended, and a cache comprising 01xPistol, 02xHand Grenade & other warlike stores was seized. Ongoing investigations continue,” shared the army via X. (ANI)

News

Fire Incident Causes Damage to Idarah Tehqeeqat e Islami in Anantnag, South Kashmir

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A well-known Islamic seminary and a residential home in Anantnag town, South Kashmir, faced significant damage due to a fire incident on Sunday evening.

According to an official statement, the fire originated from the residence of Fayaz Ahmad Kadoo in old Eidgah Anantnag, quickly spreading to the main building of Idara Tehqeqaat-e-Islamia, a renowned religious institution in Jammu and Kashmir.

Local residents, along with fire and emergency services and the police, promptly responded to the scene to extinguish the flames. Despite their efforts, the fire resulted in substantial harm to the residential property and the primary structure of Idara Tehqeqat-e-Islami, leading to the destruction of numerous Islamic texts.

Preliminary investigations point to a short circuit as the likely cause of the fire. Authorities have initiated further inquiries into the incident.

News

Youth Missing Since April 23 Found Dead Near Sonwar Area in Srinagar, Kashmir

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In a tragic turn of events, Faizan Farooq, a youth missing since April 23, was discovered deceased near the Sonwar area of central Kashmir’s Srinagar district on Sunday, officials confirmed.

Faizan Farooq, identified as the son of Farooq Ahmad Bhat and a resident of Kremshora Budgam, had been missing along with his Toyota Glanza Tourist cab since April 23. His body was found in his cab near the backside of Paras Hospital in Sonwar.

The discovery of Faizan’s body has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting authorities to launch an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death.

The police have initiated a thorough investigation into the matter to ascertain the events leading to Faizan’s demise.

This tragic incident has left the community mourning the loss of a young life and awaiting answers regarding the circumstances of Faizan Farooq’s untimely death.