NOK Desk - News Of Kashmir

Annual Dastarbandi Ceremony at Darul Aloom Sayad ul Mursaleen, Chowgam – 4th October 2024

October 4, 2024October 2, 2024 by NOK Desk

The Annual Dastarbandi Ceremony at Darul Aloom Sayad ul Mursaleen in Chowgam will be held on 4th October 2024. This prestigious event marks the culmination of years of dedicated study for students who have completed their religious education. The term “Dastarbandi” refers to the traditional act of tying a turban on the graduates, symbolising their official recognition as Islamic scholars.

This ceremony is an occasion of great joy and pride, not only for the students but also for their families, teachers, and the wider community. The event will bring together prominent scholars, students, and guests from across the region to witness and celebrate the achievements of the graduating scholars.

The 2024 Dastarbandi Ceremony will also feature speeches by renowned Islamic scholars, offering guidance and inspiration to the newly graduated students as they embark on their journey of religious leadership and service to the community. It is a momentous occasion that reflects the deep-rooted tradition of valuing knowledge and learning in Islam, while also reinforcing the bonds of unity, faith, and collective responsibility within the community.

All are welcome to join this important and spiritually uplifting event.

News

Ladakh Activist Sonam Wangchuk and 150 Protesters Detained Again After Release

October 2, 2024 by NOK Desk

Climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, along with 150 other protesters from Ladakh, continued their indefinite fast on Wednesday, despite being in detention. They expressed feeling their rights were “trampled upon” on Gandhi Jayanti, a day that symbolises peace and democracy.

Wangchuk was leading the ‘Delhi Chalo Padyatra’, which began a month ago from Leh, when they were detained on Monday night. On Wednesday morning, Jigmat Paljor, Coordinator of the Apex Body, issued a statement calling the detention illegal, as it had exceeded 24 hours without them being presented before a magistrate.

“We, the ‘padyatris’, find ourselves in a concerning situation. We have been detained for more than 24 hours, and this detention is unlawful, as we should have been produced before a magistrate by now,” Paljor said.

He added that some groups had been released just before the 24-hour period ended, only to be returned to the police station later. “Last night, the police attempted to forcibly relocate us to an unknown location, but we resisted and stood our ground,” he explained.

The protestors’ phones have been confiscated at the Bawana Police Station, cutting them off from the outside world, Paljor further mentioned.

However, Delhi Police stated that the ‘padyatris’ had been released on Tuesday night but were detained again when they attempted to march towards central Delhi. According to a senior police officer, Wangchuk and others were allowed to leave but were adamant about continuing their march, leading to their second detention.

The ‘padyatris’ began their journey from Leh on 1st September, marching most of the way except through Haryana, where they boarded buses due to election restrictions. They were stopped at Delhi’s Singhu border on Monday night and taken to various police stations, where they began their indefinite fast.

“All the ‘padyatris’ have been fasting for 36 hours. On October 2nd, Gandhi Jayanti, we had planned to visit Gandhi Samadhi to pay our respects, but instead, we find our rights crushed on a day dedicated to peace and democracy,” Paljor said.

“This situation raises grave concerns about the current state of democracy in our country. We urge everyone to stand in solidarity with us during this critical time,” he added.

The march was organised by the Leh Apex Body (LAB), which, along with the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), has been campaigning for the last four years. They are demanding statehood for Ladakh, inclusion under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, timely recruitment processes, a public service commission for Ladakh, and separate Lok Sabha constituencies for Leh and Kargil districts.

Wangchuk, along with a few others, is being held at the Bawana police station, while others are being detained at police stations in Narela Industrial Area, Alipur, and Kanjhawala, according to Paljor.

Jammu & Kashmir Assembly Polls 11.60% voter turnout recorded upto 9:00 am in Last Phase

Climate Activist Sonam Wangchuk and Supporters Begin Indefinite Fast After Detention at Delhi Border

Assembly Elections Jammu & Kashmir Update: Over 44.08% Voter Turnout Recorded Upto 1:00 PM

Politics

Large Number of People are Voting in the Last Phase and Participated Wholeheartedly in this Festival of Democracy: Ravinder Raina

October 1, 2024 by NOK Desk

State BJP President and candidate from Nowshera Assembly seat Ravinder Raina said that a large number of people are voting in the last phase of assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir and voting percentage has been unexpected.

Ravinder Raina said, “A large number of people are voting in the last phase of assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. The people of Jammu and Kashmir have participated wholeheartedly in this festival of democracy. These elections have been conducted very well. Polling percentage has been unexpected. This shows J&K is touching new heights and giving its contribution in strengthening new India. I would like to congratulate the security foces and EC for conducting the polls successfully.”

Former Deputy CM of J&K and BJP leader Kavinder Gupta was confident of BJP coming to power
“Elections are taking place in Jammu and Kashmir after 10 years and there is enthusiasm among the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Today, people have shown their gratitude towards democracy and have expressed their faith in it, so I am sure that the government that will be formed will be in favour of democracy and in favour of the Bharatiya Janata Party,” he said.

According to the latest data issued by Election Commission of India (ECI), Jammu and Kashmir recorded 11.60 per cent voting in the initial voter turnout trend till 9 am on Tuesday.

Of the seven districts, Udhampur district is leading in the voter turnout chart with 14.23 per cent voting, followed by Samba at 13.31 per cent, Kathua at 13.09 per cent, Bandipore 11.64 per cent, Jammu at 11.46 per cent, Kupwara at 11.27 per cent and Baramulla at 8.89 per cent till 9 am.

The polls began at 7 am on Tuesday and will conclude at 6 pm. Voting will take place in 24 constituencies in the Jammu division and 16 constituencies in Kashmir amid strong security to ensure smooth and peaceful polls.

The intensive campaign for the third and final phase of polling in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections concluded on Sunday evening. (ANI)
This election is notable as the first in a decade and the first since the revocation of Article 370 in August 2019.

The three-phase election involves a multi-party contest for the 90 seats across the former state. The National Conference (NC) and the Congress have formed an alliance for these elections, while the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are among the other major contenders.

The first phase of voting took place on September 18, and the second phase concluded on September 25.

According to the Election Commission of India, the first and second phases of polling recorded voter turnouts of 61 per cent and 57.31 per cent, respectively. The counting of the votes will be done on October 8. (ANI)

Not Ready To Join Hands With BJP,Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) Aim is to Bring Permanent Peace in Kashmir: Engineer Rashid

October 1, 2024October 1, 2024 by NOK Desk

Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) President Sheikh Abdul Rashid alias Engineer Rashid on Tuesday dismissed speculation about aligning with the BJP and asserted that the main aim of his party is to restore peace in Kashmir.

“Why will I join hands with the BJP? Power is a very small thing for me. I was an independent MLA and I would have joined any party. If power had been my priority I would have joined hands with PM Modi.

Many people have died in Kashmir. My biggest concern is to make sure that these killings should stop,” Sheikh Abdul Rashid said.

“Priority is how the leadership will work after getting the mandate of the public. Will they, like the traditional parties PDP, JKNC, INC, and BJP after winning elections roam like VVIPs…Kashmir has to go beyond that…Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) will aim to bring permanent peace to Kashmir,” he added.

Engineer Rashid said that the recent increase in voter turnout in Kashmir, attributing it to the state’s repression.

He emphasized that the people of Kashmir are eager for change and wish to express their feelings through democratic means.

“The voting percentage has increased because people have been victims of state repression…the voice of the people has been suppressed since the PDP came to power in 2014. People want to express their feelings and they want change because they have understood that they can achieve something only through democratic means. Violence has no place in society…the people of Kashmir have always believed in democracy. They also wanted a democratic solution to the Kashmir issue. I hope an era of reconciliation will begin after the voting,” Rashid said.

Abdul Rashid Sheikh, commonly referred to as Engineer Rashid, is a former two-time Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) representing the Langate constituency in northern Kashmir.

Rashid, who had been arrested and faced charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), was granted interim bail from Tihar Jail in September. The special NIA court in Delhi approved the bail to enable Rashid to campaign for the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections. He is required to surrender on October 3.

Rashid gained significant recognition when he defeated two prominent candidates in Jammu and Kashmir during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Omar Abdullah from the National Conference and Sajad Lone from the Baramulla seat.

This victory took place while he was in jail, with his son, Abrar Rashid, leading the campaign on his behalf.

Rashid’s party, the Awami Ittehad party has fielded 34 candidates in the 2024 Assembly elections. His younger brother, Khurshid Ahmad Sheikh, is a candidate for the Langate seat in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district.

The polling for the third and final phase of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections began at 7am today with people queueing up at a polling station across 40 constituencies in seven districts of the Union Territory.

At least 415 candidates, including former deputy Chief Ministers Tara Chand of Congress and Muzaffar Hussain Beig, are contesting in the third phase. Mock polling also took place at various polling booths before the start of the polls.

The first phase of voting took place on September 18, and the second phase concluded on September 25. The counting of the votes will be done on October 8. (ANI)

Jamaat e Islami Kashmir Stayed Away From Polls Since 1987 to Protest The Rigging of Elections: Hafiz Mohammad Sikander

October 1, 2024October 1, 2024 by NOK Desk

Expressing a desire to serve the people democratically and describing participation in elections as a much-needed process, Hafiz Mohammad Sikander, the Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI) backed candidate, stated that the banned organisation had stayed away from elections since 1987 to protest the rigging of polls in Jammu and Kashmir.

After casting his vote at the Gundpora polling station, he said: “JeI stayed away from polls since 1987 to protest the rigging of elections at that time by certain mischievous parties. Now, we consider participating in elections a much-needed process, as we want to serve the people democratically, addressing their voices and issues that have been ignored.”

The 32-year-old candidate said that JeI wants to serve the people and fight for justice, aiming to highlight their concerns on a larger scale.

With a GPS tracker attached to his ankle, Malik gained momentum in the final days of his campaign and noted that he faced many challenges due to doubts about the device. “They ran away from me, fearing it might record our conversations,” he said.

Regarding the current situation, he stated that conditions in J&K are much better now, but people have missed having elected representatives for over a decade. “With the elections held in J&K, we hope that elected representatives will address the common issues faced by the region,” he said.

The polling began today for the 3rd and final phase of General Elections to J&K Legislative Assembly in 40 Assembly Constituencies (ACs) across seven districts of Jammu & Kashmir—(KNO)

Nizamuddin Bhat Appeals Poll Body to Prevent any kind of mischief from anybody,Raises Concern over Booth Capturing

September 30, 2024 by NOK Desk

Except one particular independent candidate who is getting undue support to promote his chances at the hustings, the election process has run smooth enclosure of the campaign in Bandipora. Stating this, Nizamuddin Bhat, contesting candidate from Congress-NC alliance said that there are apprehensions being expressed that some of the candidates who see themselves strong at certain polling stations may try booth capturing.

In a statement, issued here, Bhat said if that is allowed to happen it will vitiate the electoral process much to the disappointment of the electorate.

“The youth of Kashmir in general and the youth of Bandipora in particularly have been active participants in the entire process, jettisoning the shadows of past when they were seen as stone pelters and spoilers. The current process is sure to come as a deep dismay if certain elements are allowed to indulge in malpractices and violence,” he said.

“We, therefore, make an appeal to the Election Commission of India and the state security agencies to prevent any kind of mischief from anybody whosoever he may be. We further hope that the electorate also will cooperate in conduct of the elections as smooth and fair,” Bhat stated.

He added that needles to say that one of the independent candidates in Bandipora is openly swearing administrative support with a notion that he is entitled to it. “Therefore, the onus is on the administration to disprove him,” Bhat said.

News

Mehbooba Mufti Condoles the demise of Mrs. Bilquis Bano Wife Late Farooq Nazki

September 27, 2024 by NOK Desk

Former Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir and President of the Jammu & Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Mehbooba Mufti, has expressed her heartfelt condolences on the passing away of Mrs. Bilquis Bano, wife of veteran journalist and poet Late Farooq Nazki, and the aunt of senior PDP leader, Naeem Akhtar Andrabi.

In her message, Mehbooba Mufti conveyed deep sorrow at the loss, describing Mrs. Bano as a gentle soul who embodied grace, kindness, and dignity. “Her demise is a personal loss for all those who knew her, and her absence will be deeply felt within the family and beyond. I extend my sincerest sympathies to Mr. Farooq Nazki, Naeem Sahab, and the entire family during this difficult time. May Allah grant them the strength to bear this irreparable loss.”

Mehbooba Mufti prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul and expressed her solidarity with the grieving family in their hour of pain.

Politics

Old Alley of BJP Omar Abdullah Used to Negate killing of Kashmiris in Foreign countries: Sajad Lone

September 27, 2024 by NOK Desk

Sajad Lone, chairman of the Peoples Conference, Lone questioned Omar Abdullah’s motives, pointing out his shift from downplaying killing of people in Kashmir to criticizing foreign ambassadors’ visits.

Lone criticized Abdullah’s expulsion of Saifuddin Soz from the party for voting against the BJP, seeking clarity on the matter.He shared his personal struggles, including imprisonment and torture, and challenged those he called “chocolate boys” to lecture him.

On development, Lone touted his achievements, surpassing 40-year records of others development in just two and a half years.He reiterated his stance on Article 370, calling its removal “illegal” and opined that it can be restored through a different federal structure and rules our its restoration through UT assembly.

” I don’t want to lie to people,” he said according to KNS correspondent.Lone concluded by affirming his equidistant from both the INDIA alliance and NDA, preferring a secular alliance with a revised Kashmir policy that prioritizes development and truth.

He also clarified that he met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2014.(KNS)

Kashmir Tourism

Aru Village Part of Pahalgam gets ‘Best Tourism Villages of India’ award Announced By Union Ministry of Tourism

September 27, 2024 by NOK Desk

Union Ministry of Tourism today announced Aru village, part of Pahalgam in Anantnag, as one of the winners of prestigious ‘Best Tourism Villages of India’ award.

The announcement was made on the occasion of World Tourism Day.

Introduced in 2023, the Best Tourism Villages Competition aims to identify and recognize villages that preserve and promote their cultural and natural heritage through community based values and sustainable practices.

In the second edition of the competition, a total of 991 applications were received from 30 States and Union Territories. After a rigorous evaluation process, 36 villages were selected as winners across eight categories.

Aru village was declared Best Tourism Village in the “Adventure Tourism Category”. Recently, it has been noted for its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and community-based tourism initiatives.

The recognition of Aru village as a ‘Best Tourism Village of India’ is a testament to its efforts in preserving and promoting its cultural and natural assets. It is expected to further boost tourism in the region and contribute to the local economy.

Kashmir Tourism

Season’s First Snow Fall In Affarwat Gulmarg

September 27, 2024 by NOK Desk

Affarwat in Gulmarg, a famous ski resort in north Kashmir, has received season’s first snowfall even as parts of Kashmir Valley received rainfall since yesterday.

An official told Affarwat recorded 2 inches of snowfall since early morning.Parts of Jammu and Kashmir also received fresh rainfall, which brought mercury down after heat wave conditions for nearly five days.

An independent weather forecaster, Faizan Arif Keng said that generally cloudy weather is expected across Jammu and Kashmir, with possibility of rain in some parts today.

“Sunny break in between is also possible in few areas,” he said, adding that towards night and early morning tomorrow, another rain spell is expected.

“Heavy intensity showers can’t be ruled out in Jammu plains while improvement in weather is expected from tomorrow morning or afternoon onwards,” he added.

He said mostly dry weather is expected until 4 October, with a significant fall in night temperatures—(KNO)

Kashmir Agriculture

20th University Council Meeting of SKUAST Jammu Chaired by LG Manoj Sinha at Raj Bhawan

September 26, 2024 by NOK Desk

The meeting was attended by Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Shailendra Kumar, Principal Secretary, Agriculture Production Department; Sh Santosh D Vaidya, Principal Secretary, Finance Department; Dr Mandeep Kumar Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lt Governor; Dr. BN Tripathi, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST Jammu; Prof. Nazir A. Ganai, Vice Chancellor, SKUAST Kashmir; Prof. P.L. Gautam, Pro-Chancellor, Career Point University Hamirpur; Dr. M.C Sharma, former Director, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar, Bareilly; Prof Anil Kumar, Registrar, SKUAST-Jammu and other senior officers, in person and through virtual mode.

The University Council headed by Lt Governor deliberated on addressing key challenges in agriculture and allied sectors alongwith taking the research and innovation from Lab to the Field to increase productivity.

The Lt Governor stressed that the University should adopt modern and sustainable agriculture practices and put more focus on developing interface with the farming community and implementation of e-office.

The meeting also appreciated the performance of the University under National Agricultural Higher Education Project (NAHEP).

The Council gave in-principle approvals to various agenda points presented during the meeting including adoption of UGC based qualification for the post of the Assistant Registrar, Assistant Comptroller and ICAR norms for posts of Subject Matter Specialists.

Dr. BN Tripathi, Vice Chancellor SKUAST Jammu presented the progress report of the University. He apprised the meeting that the University has made significant improvement in research, patents and publications.

Politics

Ghulam Nabi Azad’s Four-Hour Speech in Parliament was a Historic Moment: Er. Nazir Yatoo

September 24, 2024 by NOK Desk

Er. Nazir Yatoo, General Secretary of the Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) for Kashmir Province, has issued a press statement highlighting the crucial role of Ghulam Nabi Azad, Chairman of DPAP, during the historic debate in Parliament over the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35A and the bifurcation of the state into two Union territories.

Azad’s four-hour speech was a historic moment. He stood firm and emphasized that repealing Articles 370 and 35A will not alleviate the problems faced by the people in J&K. “We need love, not force, said Nazir

Nazir stated that Azad’s six lectures and protests in Parliament for our rights, along with his relentless advocacy, compelled Amit Shah to promise the restoration of statehood—a commitment born from the protests and opposition that Azad tirelessly led.

“How can we condone passing resolutions within the confines of Parliament while our citizens continue to endure curfews and restrictions? Is this the justice our Constitution upholds?” Azad’s voice resonated with the pain and struggle of our people, who feel abandoned and unheard, while other Lok Sabha members from Jammu and Kashmir remained silent and even laughed. It was Azad who stood firm, Yatoo added.

He further criticized the hollow promises made by those who failed to speak up when it mattered most. “Where were these voices when the fate of Jammu and Kashmir was being decided in Parliament? Today, they are making promises, but it was Azad Ji who stood up and fought for the people of J&K when no one else did.”

Politics

Narendera Modi Forgets “Kaam ki baat” No one is listening his“Mun Ki Baat”: Rahul Gandhi

September 23, 2024 by NOK Desk

Senior Congress leader and Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi today took a jibe at Prime Minister Narendera Modi for talking about “man ki baat” and forgetting the “kaam ki baat” stating that J&K was not only downgraded to a UT but “this place is now ruled by outsiders against the wishes of people.”

Addressing a massive rally in the Central –Shalteng constituency of Srinagar, Rahul Gandhi said that J&K has not only been reduced to a UT from being a State but it has been ruled by the “outsiders directly.” “The Lieutenant Governor is Raja who is working against the wishes of people here. He doesn’t know how to work,” Rahul said.

He took a dig at PM Modi for talking high in his “Man ki baat” but forgetting the “Kaam ki baat. ” “Kaam Ki baat means to address the unemployment and to restore Statehood in J&K,” Rahul said, adding that the fact is nobody listens to man ki baat of PM Modi now.

He said before Lok Sabha polls, it was stated that Modi has a 56 inch chest. Earlier, he would speak with chest spread but INDIA alliance managed to break Modi’s psychology. Modi’s confidence is lost. He is the Modi of earlier days,” Rahul said.

“I see him very closely in the Lok Sabha while people see him on TV. His mood has changed and his face has changed. Credit goes to INDIA alliance for this,” he said.

He said BJP leaders spread hatred and pitched brother against brother. “They have spread hatred across the country. Hatred is not dealt with Hatred but with love,” Rahul said.

From Kanyakumari to Kashmir, Rahul said, he walked 4000 kms. “Wherever BJP had opened the shops of hatred, we closed them and opened the shops of love. We will continue to do the same,” he said as per KNO

He said this is for the first time that J&K as a state was downgraded to a UT. “We had seen UTs being converted into States. “We want Statehood to be restored as soon as possible so that J&K becomes a State again,” he said. “We wanted this to happen before elections but BJP didn’t.”

He said Congress will build pressure on BJP to restore the Statehood post polls. “If they don’t do it. I guarantee you that we will do it as it is your democratic right,” said Rahul.—(KNO)

News

Chief Justice, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Justice Tashi Rabstan Inspects the ongoing construction works at Drass, Kargil and Khaltsi

September 20, 2024 by NOK Desk

In an endeavor to give impetus to Judicial Infrastructure in the UT of Ladakh, Acting Chief Justice, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, Justice Tashi Rabstan today inspected the ongoing construction works on various courts at Drass, Kargil and Khaltsi.

During his visit to Drass and Kargil, Justice Tashi was accompanied by M K Sharma, Principal Secretary to Chief Justice and Amit Kumar Gupta, Member Secretary, Juvenile Justice Committee, High Court of J&K and Ladakh.

The acting Chief Justice was accorded ceremonial guard of honour and warm reception by the Deputy Commissioner/CEO LAHDC Kargil, Shrikant Balasaheb Suse, Shree Ram SSP, Fariqa Nazir CJM, Wangiyal Tsering Special Mobile Magistrate, Chemet Yourgyal Secretary DLSA and Deldan Angmo Munsiff Sankhoo, Skalzang Superintending Engineer, President along with members of Bar Association Kargil and officers from civil administration and police.

Sadiq Ali, Executive Engineer PWD (R&B), gave a detailed presentation about the ongoing projects, the progress made so far and the timeline fixed for completion of the projects.

Justice Tashi expressed satisfaction over the progress registered on various works, so far and impressed on the officers of the executing agency to optimally utilize the working season ensuring completion of construction works well in time.

Justice Tashi Rabstan was informed that the District Court complex Kargil is being constructed over 45 Kanal of land at Kurbuthang plateau at a cost of Rs 61.680 crore and 60% of the work has already been completed. The executing agency further informed that every endeavor is being made to complete the ongoing works within the timeline fixed.

Justice Tashi instructed all heads of the departments associated with the projects to work in tandem and ensure that the quality is maintained at all costs.

The Bar Association Kargil raised some issues regarding the Lawyer’s chambers which were addressed by the acting Chief Justice on the spot by issuing necessary directions to the concerned officers.

Enroute to Leh, the Chief Justice also inspected the under construction building of the Court of Munsiff and hoped that the same shall be completed within a couple of months.

Justice Tashi Rabstan interacted with the Judicial Officers and took stock of the pendency of the cases in their respective Courts and urged upon them to ensure speedy disposal of the cases specially those pertaining to senior citizens, women and the children. He also emphasized upon the Principal Magistrate JJB Kargil to fast track the pending enquiries of the Juveniles in conflict with law.

Politics

BJP Spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari challenged Congress to explain its position on Article 370

May 15, 2025September 19, 2024 by NOK Desk

BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari launched a scathing attack on Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and the Congress party on Thursday. His comments followed BJP President JP Nadda’s letter and a statement by Pakistan’s Defense Minister Khawaja Asif, who claimed that the Congress party and the National Conference are aligned with Pakistan’s interests regarding the restoration of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir.

Bhandari accused the Congress of failure to address numerous insults directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and of displaying double standards and anti-national behaviour.

Speaking to ANI, Bhandari said, “Whatever JP Nadda has written is what the people of the country are also saying: Rahul Gandhi is a failed product.” He argued that the Congress party has repeatedly abused PM Modi without condemnation. “The country knows that Congress has abused PM Modi many times… But did Congress condemn all this?”

He highlighted past incidents where Congress leaders used derogatory language against Modi, including the term “maut ke saudagar” used by Sonia Gandhi, and criticised the party for justifying rather than condemning such remarks.

Bhandari added, “Rahul Gandhi was talking about inciting violence against Prime Minister Narendra Modi from a public forum, saying he would be beaten with a stick, a ‘Gutter-Ka-Keera’ (dirty drain worm) would be cut into pieces.”

Bhandari also questioned Congress’s stance on nationalism and its ties with anti-national elements. He said, “Today, it has been established from Nadda ji’s letter that the product the Congress party is trying to launch has failed in 2014, 2019, failed in 2024, and will fail in 2029 as well.”

Furthermore, Bhandari condemned Congress for allegedly aligning with Pakistan’s interests. He referred to comments by Pakistan’s Defense Minister about Congress’s position on Article 370 and accused the party of collaborating with Pakistan. “When Article 370 was in force, Pakistan used to spread terror in Jammu and Kashmir.

Today, it is clear that Pakistan is using Congress and the National Conference as a front,” Bhandari said.

He also challenged Congress to explain its position on Article 370 and its perceived alignment with Pakistan, adding, “Congress party and the National Conference want Jammu and Kashmir to go back to the dark days when separatism was the norm.”(ANI)

Politics

Ghulam Qadir Wani Head of Jamaat-e-Islami Votes in Pulwama, Advocates for Democratic Solutions

September 18, 2024 by NOK Desk

Ghulam Qadir Wani, the panel head of the banned Jamaat-e-Islami, cast his vote on Wednesday at a polling station in Gusoo village, Pulwama district.

In a conversation with Rising Kashmir, Wani stressed that democratic processes are crucial for resolving all issues.“Democracy is the only way to achieve lasting solutions,” he said, urging voters to cast their ballots wisely.

He especially appealed to the youth, encouraging them to hold their chosen candidates accountable for their promises.Wani emphasised that the primary aim of participating in the elections is to ensure political stability, eradicate corruption, and combat drug abuse in society.

He expressed optimism that the elections will be transparent like the previously held parliamentary elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

Politics

In Upcoming J-K polls Taj Mohiuddin will contest as independent candidate

September 8, 2024 by NOK Desk

Senior political leader and former legislator from north Kashmir’s Uri, Taj Mohiuddin has announced that he will contest the upcoming elections as an independent candidate, sources said.

They also said that the Mehbooba Mufti-led Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has extended support to the former minister.

Politics

Only BJP can Restore Statehood To Jammu & Kashmir: Amit Shah

March 30, 2025September 7, 2024 by NOK Desk

Union Home Minister and BJP leader, Amit Shah Saturday questioned Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and JKNC vice president Omar Abdullah over their claims of restoring statehood to J&K after they get to power in the upcoming Assembly elections in the region.

He said that he had promised on the floor of the parliament that J&K’s statehood will be restored at an “appropriate time.”Addressing a big gathering in Jammu, Shah said that JKNC’s manifesto advocates for talks with Pakistan, so “let me make it clear that there will be no talks with Pakistan until J&K becomes peaceful forever.”

While defending the central government’s move to provide reservation for Gujjar-Bakerwal and Dalit communities, Shah said that “no power can touch this reservation,” news agency KNO reported him saying.

Taking a jibe at the NC-Congress for claiming they will bring back the statehood to J&K, Shah said, “Perhaps, Rahul baba and Omar are unaware of my August 5, 2019 speech where I have clarified that statehood will be restored to J&K post polls at an appropriate time,” he said.

Shah questioned Rahul and Omar, saying “I wonder how they can bring back statehood. Can they clarify? It is the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government that can give back the statehood to J&K.”

Asking the BJP workers to come along with four families early morning and finish voting by 11:30 am. Shah asked the workers to take a pledge that they will vote against Abdullahs, Muftis and Gandhis. He also raised the slogan: “Jahan Huway Balidan Mukherji, Wo Kashmiri Hamara hai.”

Lashing out at PDP for advocating cross LoC trade, Shah claimed that the profit earned out the trade would directly go into the pockets of “terror mentors.”

Shahzad Ahmed Parra Successfully Defended PhD Viva Voce From Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University Rajouri

September 5, 2024 by NOK Desk

Shahzad Ahmed Parra, Research Scholar,Shahzad Ahmed Parra successfully defended his PhD viva voce on the title

A comparative study of Rooh al -Ma’ani by Imam Mahmood al-Aloosy and Adwa al-Bayan bu Mohammad al-Amin al-Shabqeety Under the Supervision of Dr. Manzar Alam, Assistant Professor Department of Arabic.

Politics

Sarjan Barkati Challenging Omar Abdullah Ganderbal for Elections After Nomination Rejection in Zanipora Shopian

September 4, 2024 by NOK Desk

After the Election Commission of India (ECI) rejected Sarjan Ahmad Wagay’s nomination from Zainapora in south Kashmir due to an incomplete application, the jailed cleric and separatist leader, known as Sarjan Barkati, is set to refile his nomination. Reports indicate that Barkati will now contest the Ganderbal Assembly seat in central Kashmir, challenging former Chief Minister and JKNC vice-president Omar Abdullah.

Barkati’s nephew, Rehbar Ahmad, confirmed to The Indian Express that Barkati will contest from Ganderbal, a constituency historically dominated by the Abdullah family. Omar Abdullah, who won the seat in 2008, is again running for the same position.

Barkati’s initial nomination papers were rejected on August 28 because he failed to provide a complete signed oath certificate in time. While his family initially planned to challenge the decision in court, they have now opted for Barkati to contest from Ganderbal.

The decision to enter the elections has surprised many in Kashmir. Barkati’s daughter, Sugra Barkati, had previously filed his nomination papers and campaigned for her father’s release, hoping that a successful election might lead to his bail.

Previously affiliated with Ummat-e-Islami, Barkati was arrested by the State Investigation Agency (SIA) in August 2023 over alleged fundraising activities linked to money laundering and radicalism. He had gained prominence through his leadership in protest rallies following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani in 2016. Barkati was arrested under the Public Safety Act (PSA) in 2016, released two years later, and re-arrested in August 2023.