Awami Itehad Party chief and the North Kashmir Member Parliament Er Sheikh Abdul Rashid on Monday suggested the political parties and independents who would emerge victorious tomorrow not to form the government in J&K until the Government of India restores the Statehood.
He said AIP would extend full support if all get united on this advice.
“I have a humble suggestion to all political parties and independent candidates who would win elections tomorrow to put government formation on hold till Centre restores Statehood to J&K,” the North Kashmir MP said. “If all agree to my suggestion, AIP would also extend full support to this proposal.”
Er Rashid also said that age-old darbar move practice should be resumed for the larger status of people of both regions. “The administration claims that it has saved the J & K exchequer from a huge burden by abolishing the Darbar Move practice but the fact remains that people of both regions are suffering. We demand this practice should be resumed,” he said.
The North Kashmir MP also said that he was in Delhi a few days ago where he was J&K House Delhi being exclusively kept reserved for the people of Ladakh UT. “Is this justice? I want to ask the Government of India what was the criteria used to distribute properties of J&K in Delhi and the rest of the country. Ladakh has only 4 to 5 lakh population and for them you have kept J&K House, while J&K has over 2 crore population, where would the people go if they need to travel out of J&K for treatment, travel and jobs,” Er asked.
To a query if BJP wins majority in Jammu and NC in Kashmir, to which party AIP would extend support, Er Rashid said that his priority wasn’t government formation and only safeguarding the interests of J&K. On five nominated members by the J&K Administration, he said. “By nominating members of its own, the J&K administration is damaging and challenging the very idea of BJP and PM Narendera Modi: Ek Vidhan, Ek Nishan, Ek Pradhan. How can Delhi people nominate members for J&K Assembly when poll results are yet to be out,” the North Kashmir MP said. Er Rashid is out on bail till October 12. He has served detention in New Delhi’s Tihar for five and a half years—(KNO)
Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party leader Ghulam Hassan Mir has urged all political parties to prioritize the restoration of statehood over government formation.
“Political parties in J&K should focus on pushing for the restoration of statehood before thinking about forming a government. Without statehood, the J&K Assembly will be powerless. Both the Prime Minister and the Home Minister have already promised it,” he told KNS.
He emphasized that all parties should unite in their efforts to restore statehood, regardless of who eventually forms the government.
“Whoever forms the government will be unable to provide any real relief without the restoration of statehood. Popular governments are meant to serve the people, but without statehood, the J&K government will be like a toothless tiger,” he added.
Mir also urged regional political parties to unite in their pursuit of statehood, the empowerment of the assembly, and the empowerment of the people. Instead, he pointed out, they are more focused on forming a government. (KNS)
A day before Jammu & Kashmir Assembly election results, J&K Congress Chief Tariq Hameed Karra expressed cautious optimism about the outcome while raising concerns about exit polls and the role of the Lieutenant Governor (LG) in the nomination of Assembly members.
Karra acknowledged the exit polls but emphasized that they do not always reflect the true outcome.“Exit polls are fine in their place, but we hope that the exact poll will be even better than that. A clear-cut verdict has been given to the alliance,” he said.
“In some places, the exit poll projections are correct, but in others, they are manipulated. We believe more in the exact poll than the exit poll,” he said, reinforcing his confidence in the forthcoming results.
Karra remained hopeful that the alliance would emerge victorious, surpassing the expectations set by exit polls.In a pointed critique of the powers vested in the LG, Karra referred to the allocation of five seats by the LG as an overreach of authority.
He argued that the Indian Constitution does not allow for arbitrary nominations, even by the President in the Rajya Sabha.“The government is represented by the cabinet, and such appointments should be made on their recommendation. If the same is applied here, the arbitrary powers given to the LG are unconstitutional and undemocratic,” Karra asserted.
He questioned how an LG could be granted powers that even the President of India does not have“This is a clear violation of democratic norms, and such powers should not be vested in one individual,” he added.
When asked about potential alliances, particularly with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Karra stated that no direct contact was necessary.He reiterated his long-standing stance of aligning with any party or organization that seeks to keep the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) out of power.
“Every political party or organization on the same page, wanting to prevent BJP from entering the power corridor, is part of our broader objective,” he remarked.Karra concluded his remarks by expressing skepticism about the reliability of exit polls. (KNS)
Seerat Baji, a name that has resonated across India, is not just an IAS officer but a symbol of determination, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of the human heart. Hailing from the remote village of Kanthol in Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir, Seerat’s journey to the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) is a testament to the power of dreams and the unwavering support of family.
Born into a modest family, Seerat’s childhood was shaped by the simple joys and challenges of rural life. Her parents, recognizing the importance of education, encouraged her to pursue her academic goals. Despite the limitations of their village, Seerat’s thirst for knowledge was insatiable. She excelled in her studies, leaving a trail of academic achievements.
A Dream Takes Shape
As Seerat progressed through her education, a dream began to take shape within her. Inspired by the stories of dedicated civil servants who made a positive impact on society, she aspired to become an IAS officer. The idea of serving her community, particularly the marginalized and underprivileged, ignited a passion within her.
Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles
The path to the IAS is fraught with challenges, and Seerat was no stranger to them. The limited resources available in her village, coupled with the lack of coaching facilities, posed significant hurdles. However, her determination and resilience proved to be her greatest assets. She made the most of the available resources, studying diligently and seeking guidance from teachers and mentors who believed in her potential.
A Journey of Self-Discovery
Seerat’s journey to the IAS was not just about academic excellence; it was also a personal journey of self-discovery. She learned to manage her time effectively, balance her studies with extracurricular activities, and develop a strong work ethic. She also discovered the importance of perseverance and resilience in overcoming setbacks.
The UPSC Exam: A Turning Point
The Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam, considered one of the toughest competitive exams in the world, is a daunting prospect for even the most prepared candidates. Seerat approached the exam with a combination of confidence and humility. She had spent countless hours studying, practicing mock tests, and honing her analytical skills.
Success and Recognition
Seerat’s hard work and dedication paid off when she secured an All India Rank (AIR) of 516 in the UPSC exam. Her achievement was celebrated not only in her village but across the country. She became an inspiration to countless young people, proving that with determination and perseverance, one can overcome any obstacle and achieve one’s dreams.
A Role Model for Women
Seerat’s success has had a particularly significant impact on young women from rural areas. Her journey has shattered stereotypes and demonstrated that girls from even the most remote villages can aspire to the highest positions in society. She has become a role model for women who face challenges and discrimination, inspiring them to pursue their own ambitions.
The Road Ahead
As an IAS officer, Seerat is now poised to make a meaningful contribution to society. Her experiences as a young woman from a rural background have given her a unique perspective on the challenges faced by marginalized communities. She is committed to using her position to address these challenges and improve the lives of people in her region.
Seerat Baji’s Legacy
Seerat Baji’s story is a testament to the power of dreams, determination, and the unwavering support of family. Her journey from a remote village to the Indian Administrative Service is an inspiration to millions. She has shown that with hard work, dedication, and a belief in oneself, anything is possible. Seerat’s legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, reminding them that they too can achieve greatness.:
Seerat Baji: A Rural Girl’s Rise to IAS
Seerat Baji, a young woman from the remote village of Kanthol in Jammu and Kashmir, India, has achieved a remarkable feat by securing an All India Rank of 516 in the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam. Despite facing challenges due to her limited access to resources in her hometown, Seerat’s determination and hard work led her to this success.
Her journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of education, even in the face of adversity. Seerat’s achievement has become a source of inspiration for many young people, particularly girls from rural areas, demonstrating that with dedication and focus, one can overcome any obstacle.
Chief Spokesperson & Communication Incharge Jammu and Kashmir National Conference, Tanvir Sadiq on Sunday expressed confidence that the election results will come out in favour of National Conference-Congress alliance on October 8, the day of counting.
“I will tell you honestly people have voted in large numbers.The verdict is in the electronic voting machines (EVMs). And we are hopeful that on October 8th, the result will come out in favour of National Conference-Congress alliance and we will be able to form a government,” Tanvir Sadiq told ANI.
The NC leader underscored the importance of a stable government in the Jammu and Kashmir.
“As far as the exit poll is concerned, you saw the fiasco that happend during the Lok Sabha polls. So not going into that. I am sure that people have voted for a strong vibrant government that should come post October 8. People now know how important it is to have a very stable government in Jammu and Kashmir, “Sadiq added.
The Axis My India has predicted a hung assembly in Jammu and Kashmir with the National Conference-Congress alliance slightly ahead and the BJP tailgating the opposition.
According to Axis My India, the NC-Congress alliance can win 35-45 seats whereas the BJP can win 24-34 seats. Notably, the majority mark to form the government in the Union Territory is 46 and the prediction has shown no one above the mark.
According to the predictions, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) can win 4-6 seats while Awam Ittehad Party-led by Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid can win 3-8.
The Axis My India has given Sajjad Lone’s People’s Conference 1-3 while others can get 4-10 seats. As per its prediction, the NC-Congress vote share can go up to 38 per cent while the BJP on 21. (ANI)
A 74-year-old man died after being hit by a vehicle in Bonigam area of Qazigund in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district, officials said Sunday.
An official told that the accident took place near Bonigam late last night.He said the man suffered critical wounds and was shifted to a hospital, where he was declared brought dead.
The deceased had been identified as Abdul Rashid Sheikh son of Wali Mohammad Sheikh of Kupwara—(KNO)
National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah on Saturday said that the party will never forge an alliance with Bharatiya Janata Party to form the next government in Jammu and Kashmir.
Farooq Abdullah said that any party that will side with BJP will get vanished in Jammu and Kashmir.
He said that there was no question of forging an alliance with BJP, saying that the vote in favour of NC was against the BJP.
“We cannot expect anything, but let the results be declared and decks will be cleared about who has done what in the elections,” he said while replying to the Exit Polls today.
Furthermore, he said that Congress will also emerge victorious in the Haryana assembly elections, saying that the people who have bore the brunt of present dispensation have decided to vote in favour of Congress—(KNO)
Darul Uloom Syed ul Mursaleen chowgam kulgam organized Dastar Bandi programe in Jamia Masjid Chowgam. Hazrat Allama Maulana Rahmatullah Mir Qasmi, President Rabitaya madaris Islamia Arabiaya jammu kashmir presided over the Dastar Bandi Programme in which seven Hufaz-e-Karam were ordained have get Dastarbandhi.Allama mir Qasmi Sahib gave a special prayer for the entire Muslim Ummah by explaining the reasons for the greatness of the Qur’an.
An annual conference was organised by the Girls’ Department of the well-known Islamic institution, Darul Uloom Noor-ul-Islam Tral, in South Kashmir. Prominent scholars from the Kashmir Valley delivered enlightening speeches about the importance of women’s education and upbringing in Islam, along with other significant matters. During the event, students were encouraged to make Islam the core of their lives, ensuring success both in this world and the hereafter.
It is worth noting that a few months ago, a prestigious ceremony was held at the renowned Darul Uloom Noor-ul-Islam in Tral, South Kashmir. In this ceremony, six students who had completed the memorisation of the Holy Qur’an were honoured. The turban ceremony for the Huffaz (those who memorised the Qur’an) was conducted by the renowned Islamic scholar and spiritual leader, Maulana Muhammad Rehmatullah Mir Qasmi.
In his address, Maulana Qasmi urged the Muslim community to fulfil their obligations towards the Qur’an, describing it as the ultimate remedy for all challenges. He emphasised that the Holy Qur’an is a book of guidance and mercy for all humanity. Those who educate their children with Qur’anic teachings are truly praiseworthy. The Holy Qur’an holds solutions to all issues, and Muslims must look towards its teachings to solve their problems and set their life’s goals according to the Qur’an, to achieve success in this world and the hereafter.
The six students who were honoured in the ceremony were Muhammad Haseeb Ramzan, Imtiaz Ahmad Mir (residing in Pastoona), Muhammad Ilyas (residing in Gulab Bagh), Burhan Jabbar (residing in Nai Bagh), Masroof Sultan (residing in Tangmarg), and Saqib Tariq (residing in Nehr Tral). A large number of people attended the event, including the institution’s head, Molvi Qutub-ud-Din, Mufti Farooq Ahmad Bilali, Mufti Irshad Ahmad, and other respected guests.
Ahead of the vote counting process, the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) has categorically denied rumors suggesting “back channel” discussions with some parties and independent candidates outside the INDIA bloc.
In a statement, the party spokesperson Imran Nabi Dar said the party dismisses the claims made by some people about back channel talks other than INDIA alliance as baseless and urged the public to remain unaffected by such misinformation.
The JKNC said those anticipating their defeat have resorted to spreading false accusations to create confusion. “We urge the public, who have placed their trust in us, to disregard these false claims and not be swayed by rumor-mongering,” the party spokesman said.
He said, the party remains firm in its stance and commitment to the INDIA bloc, calling for calm as the vote counting process unfolds.The NC statement comes days before the big day – October 8, when counting of votes will be done for 90 seats of J&K Assembly. J&K witnessed elections after a decade that saw 69 percent voting. The BJP has already claimed that it will emerge as the single largest party and form the government on its own.
On the other hand, NC and Congress who fought in a pre-poll alliance, are sure about forming government in J&K. (NVI)
In today’s fast-changing world, technical skills have become more important than ever, especially in regions like Kashmir, where industries are rapidly evolving. The Department of Skill Development has been at the forefront of providing high-quality technical education through its wide network of Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and Polytechnics. With a focus on creating a skilled workforce that meets the needs of local industries and the global market, the department offers a range of courses designed to equip students with the practical expertise needed to succeed in various fields. From core engineering disciplines to specialised technical training, these institutions are paving the way for a brighter future for Kashmir’s youth.
1. The Role of Skill Development in Industrial Growth Skill development plays a critical role in driving industrial growth, particularly in regions like Kashmir, where industries rely heavily on trained manpower. Skilled workers are the backbone of industrial progress, and without them, it is challenging to maintain the pace of development. By providing youth with technical skills, the region not only boosts employment but also ensures the steady growth of industries such as handicrafts, manufacturing, and information technology. Skill development ensures that local industries remain competitive, fostering socio-economic stability in Kashmir.
2. Vision and Mission of the Skill Development Department The Skill Development Department in Kashmir aims to create a robust system of technical education that is aligned with the needs of modern industries. The department’s vision is to equip the youth with employable skills, ensuring that they are capable of contributing to both the local economy and the global workforce. The mission revolves around providing high-quality education and training, enhancing employment opportunities, and addressing the specific needs of businesses and communities in Kashmir.
3. Historical Background of the Directorate of Skill Development The Directorate of Skill Development in Kashmir was established to address the growing demand for skilled labour in the region. Initially operating under the Department of Industrial Training and Employment, the directorate was formally constituted in 1981. Before that, polytechnics were under the control of the Higher Education Department. The creation of the Directorate was a crucial step in consolidating various technical training programmes under one administrative body, facilitating more focused and strategic planning for Kashmir’s industrial workforce.
4. Evolution of ITI’s and Polytechnics Under the Department The evolution of Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) and Polytechnics in Kashmir reflects the region’s commitment to technical education. Initially, the department had just a handful of institutions, but over the years, this number has grown substantially. Today, ITIs and Polytechnics in both government and private sectors offer a variety of courses aimed at building a technically skilled workforce. The continuous growth in the number of these institutes highlights the increasing demand for skilled labour in Kashmir’s evolving industries.
5. Expansion of Training Institutes: A Growth Overview Kashmir has seen remarkable growth in the number of training institutes over the past few decades. From just seven ITIs and two Polytechnics, the region now boasts 60 ITIs and 32 Polytechnics. This expansion has not only increased the capacity for technical education but has also diversified the types of training available. The growth in both government and private sector institutes demonstrates the success of policies aimed at promoting skill development and highlights the importance of technical education for the region’s economic future.
6. Intake Capacity and Course Offerings in ITI’s and Polytechnics The intake capacity in Kashmir’s ITIs and Polytechnics has also grown significantly. ITIs now offer training in 72 different trades, ranging from six-month to two-year courses, with a total intake of 15,763 students. Meanwhile, Polytechnics provide 16 different AICTE-recognised diploma programmes with an intake of 5,655 students. These institutions cover a broad spectrum of technical fields, including both core and specialised engineering and non-engineering disciplines, ensuring that students have access to a wide range of career opportunities.
7. Human Resource Development Schemes and Initiatives The Skill Development Department in Kashmir has implemented several schemes aimed at human resource capacity building. These initiatives are designed to equip young people with the technical skills required to meet the demands of local industries. One of the department’s key initiatives is the Skill Development Mission, which aims to train thousands of youth in employable technical skills. Other schemes include Public Private Partnership (PPP) initiatives, as well as centrally funded programmes that focus on both short- and long-term training.
8. Skill Development Mission: Targets and Achievements The Skill Development Mission in Kashmir has set ambitious targets for training the region’s youth. The goal is to provide technical training to 78,593 young people over a five-year period. By 2013, the department had already trained 24,626 individuals, with a further 44,813 expected to be trained by the end of the financial year. These efforts are designed to ensure that the youth of Kashmir are well-equipped to meet the demands of the modern job market, both locally and nationally.
9. Centrally Funded Schemes for Polytechnic and ITI Sectors Several centrally funded schemes have been introduced to support the Polytechnic and ITI sectors in Kashmir. One such programme is the Community Development Through Polytechnics (CDTP) scheme, which aims to provide short-term skill training to rural and economically disadvantaged communities. This initiative is particularly significant in Kashmir, where many people in remote areas rely on local industries for their livelihoods. Through CDTP and other similar programmes, the department is working to uplift the economic conditions of the region’s rural population.
10. Vision for the Future: Expanding Access and Enhancing Quality The future vision of the Skill Development Department in Kashmir focuses on expanding access to technical education and improving the quality of training. The department aims to make skill development opportunities available to all, regardless of socio-economic background. This will be achieved through the expansion of existing institutions, the creation of new ones, and the regular updating of curricula to meet the latest industry standards. The ultimate goal is to create a skilled workforce that can drive economic growth and prosperity in Kashmir, while also maintaining high standards of education and training.
Appeal to Students
If you’re looking to build a successful career and contribute to the growth of Kashmir’s industries, now is the perfect time to join the technical education revolution. Whether you’re interested in engineering, manufacturing, information technology, or any other technical field, our ITIs and Polytechnics offer a variety of courses to match your interests. By enrolling in these programmes, you’ll gain hands-on experience, recognised qualifications, and the skills that employers are seeking. Take the first step towards a promising future—join us today and be part of Kashmir’s journey to industrial and economic prosperity.
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.
Maulana Rehmatullah Mir Sahib Qasmi will give a speech on October 4 at Darul Uloom Syed Al Mursaleen ﷺ in Chogam Qazigund, so please come and thank Us.
Jammu and Kashmir chief of BJP Ravinder Raina on Thursday said that the way people voted in record numbers in all three phases of Assembly polls held after a decade suggests that BJP will win absolute majority on October 8.
Addressing a press conference in Jammu, Raina said that people from every nook and corner of Jammu and Kashmir came out in record numbers to exercise their right to franchise in all three phases.
“I am of the firm belief that the way people voted in record numbers, BJP will emerge as the single largest party in J&K on October 8. The new government will carry forward the vision and mission of Prime Minister Narendera Modi and take J&K to new heights of development, peace and prosperity,” Raina said addressing a press conference in Jammu.
He said the way people voted signals that people have expressed faith in democracy and also in the vision of Prime Minister Narendera Modi that entails—Sab Ka Saath, Sab ka Vikas and Sab ka Vishwas.
Asked whether BJP had finalised the Hindu CM candidate if the party wins majority, Raina said lets have some patience till October 8. “For us who is going to be the CM is not the priority. We hope to see BJP emerging as a party with absolute majority. I believe, the way people voted for BJP, we will come up with a full majority,” he said.
The J&K BJP chief said the massive campaigning of Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adiyanath and BJP national president J P Nadda in Jammu that saw massive participation of people, will bear fruit. “I am sure that not only in Jammu but also in Kashmir Lotus will bloom,” Raina said.
Asked whether BJP was mulling Hindu or Dogra Chief Minister in J&K, Raina dodged the question saying, “thoda intezar ka maza lijiye (let’s wait till October 8).
He thanked police, CRPF, BSF, SSB and other security agencies for ensuring smooth and peaceful elections in J&K. “I also thank the Election Commission of India (ECI) for making up to the mark arrangements in J&K for smooth conduct of polls. I also thank the Chief Electoral Office and LG administration for making elaborate arrangements for peaceful and hassle-free elections in J&K,” the BJP J&K chief said. “I also thank NGOs, school children and all those who played their part in creating awareness among voters across the J&K UT.”
Raina also extended Navrata greetings to people of J&K and rest of the country. “We will celebrate the festival with the grand victory of BJP in J&K polls on October 8,” he claimed. He evaded queries whether BJP will forge alliance with PDP or any other party if it falls short of seats, saying that let the results come first—(KNO)
In a recent video, Dr. Tariq Rasool, a renowned expert in fruit cultivation, delivered an urgent message to the apple orchard owners of Kashmir. As the year comes to an end, apple growers in the region are facing unprecedented challenges due to various diseases affecting their crops. Dr. Rasool’s insights provide valuable guidance on how to identify these diseases, understand the underlying causes, and implement remedies to safeguard future harvests.
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.
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.
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)
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)
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)
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.
