Mehbooba Mufti on Thursday strongly criticised the National Conference-led government headed by Omar Abdullah, saying it had failed the people despite receiving strong public support.
Speaking at a party convention in Baramulla, the Peoples Democratic Party president said young people in Jammu and Kashmir are facing an uncertain future because of unemployment.
She said many educated and deserving youths remain without jobs, creating deep worry among families. She also claimed that some young people are turning to drug addiction because of stress and frustration.
Questions Over Power Promises
Mufti accused the government of failing to keep its promise of giving 200 units of free electricity to households.
She said instead of helping local people, power projects were being handed over to outsiders while promises to residents remained incomplete.
Public Stress and Social Concerns
Referring to her outreach campaign called Kath Baat, Mufti said she met people across Kashmir and found widespread stress and anxiety.
She claimed many citizens feel troubled and under pressure in daily life. She also alleged that even religious leaders were being asked to check sermons before delivering them in mosques.
Mufti further said Mohalla Committees were unable to continue rehabilitation and social welfare programmes because of alleged pressure from agencies.
Sikh Community Needs Support
Speaking about the Sikh community of Kashmir, Mufti said they have always stood with the people of Kashmir but have not received enough support packages. She said the community deserves more attention and help.
Defence of PDP-BJP Alliance
Responding to criticism over the PDP’s past alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party, Mufti said her party never compromised on the rights of the people.
She added that during the PDP government, several confidence-building steps were taken, including reopening the Srinagar–Muzaffarabad Trade Route.
Mufti said the route is now closed due to drug smuggling concerns, which has hurt traders and fruit growers.
Fruit Growers Facing Problems
She also raised concerns for fruit growers, saying trucks carrying produce stay stranded for weeks on the Srinagar-Jammu Highway, while traffic is cleared quickly during pilgrimage movements.
Call for Hope
Ending her speech, Mufti urged people not to lose hope. She said difficult times do not last forever and justice will one day prevail.
In a historic first, a special freight train carrying Amul milk and dairy products from Gujarat arrived in the Kashmir Valley on Wednesday, officials said.
According to railway officials, the train started its journey from the Linch Goods Shed in Ahmedabad on April 20.The train carried 20 wagons in total. Out of these, 10 BCN wagons were sent to the Bari Brahman Goods Shed in Jammu, while the remaining 10 reached the Anantnag Goods Shed in Anantnag. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Officials said each consignment weighed around 500 tonnes.The shipment included toned milk, milk powder, buttermilk, lassi, and other dairy items.Senior Divisional Commercial Manager Uchit Singhal called it a proud and historic moment for the entire Union Territory.
He said the initiative was launched to benefit local traders and families by ensuring round-the-clock supply of fresh milk in Jammu city and nearby districts.Singhal added that direct rail transport would reduce both cost and delivery time compared to road transport, helping markets and consumers.
This development comes a few months after the first rail consignment of 1,350 tonnes of industrial salt reached Anantnag from Kharaghoda in October 2025.Officials said the move shows Indian Railways commitment to supplying essential goods to remote areas and strengthening trade links between Gujarat’s dairy sector and Kashmir markets.
On the first anniversary of the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, a promise made to the family of late Syed Adil Hussain Shah was fulfilled.
A new house built by Shiv Sena under the leadership of Eknath Shinde was formally handed over to his family in their native village. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Heroic Sacrifice During Attack
The terror attack took place on April 22, 2025, in Baisaran Valley near Pahalgam when gunmen opened fire on tourists.
Adil Shah, a 30-year-old pony operator, was helping a tourist at the time. Reports said he bravely tried to snatch a rifle from one of the attackers to save tourists and allow people to escape.He was shot dead during the act of courage. He was the only local resident killed in the attack that claimed 26 lives.
Promise Fulfilled After One Year
Moved by the family’s condition, Eknath Shinde had earlier promised to build a permanent house for them. He had also provided financial help of ₹5 lakh.On April 21, 2026, the new house was handed over in Hapatnar village near Aishmuqam.
The handover ceremony was attended by Maharashtra ministers Sanjay Shirsat and Yogesh Kadam, while Shinde joined virtually.
House Named in Tribute
The house has been named Anand Nath Bhavan in memory of Shinde’s late mentor Anand Dighe.
Family members said the house includes necessary furnishings and was built as a mark of respect for Adil’s sacrifice.
Family Expresses Gratitude
Adil’s father, Syed Haider Shah, thanked those who supported the family.He said they had no words to express gratitude and remembered how leaders stood with them in difficult times.At the same time, he said no support can remove the pain of losing a son.
More Support for the Family
The Jammu and Kashmir administration also gave a permanent government job to Adil’s wife, Gulnaz Akhter.His younger brother also reportedly received employment support.In January 2026, Adil Shah was among those honoured by the government for bravery.
Symbol of Humanity
Family members said Adil helped people without seeing religion or identity, showing that humanity comes first. His courage continues to be remembered across Kashmir and beyond.
On the eve of the first anniversary of the 2025 Pahalgam attack, Farooq Abdullah said the tragedy remains a major setback to peace, stability, and progress in Jammu and Kashmir.
Speaking to reporters in Bijbehara on Tuesday, Dr. Abdullah paid tribute to the victims and said such attacks not only take lives but also hurt the hopes of the people of Kashmir. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Remembering a Dark Day
On April 22, 2025, a deadly attack took place in the Baisaran area of Pahalgam, a well-known tourist destination.
The attack killed 26 people, including tourists and local civilians.
Farooq Abdullah said the incident deeply hurt the region at a time when tourism and normal life were improving.
He said the tragedy pushed Kashmir backwards when people were hoping for better days.
Change in Tone After Attack
Political observers say the Pahalgam attack changed Farooq Abdullah’s public tone on security matters.
Before the attack, he strongly supported dialogue between all sides to solve the Kashmir issue.
After the killings, he questioned how talks could be defended while families were grieving the loss of innocent people.
On Tuesday, he said dialogue remains important in the long run, but ending violence against civilians must come first.
Security Operations After Attack
Following the attack, Indian security forces launched operations such as Operation Sindoor and Operation Mahadev.
Officials later said the attackers were killed after a 93-day search operation that ended on July 28, 2025.
Despite this, Abdullah said the emotional impact of the attack is still felt by many people.
Call for Peace
Farooq Abdullah also spoke about global tensions, mentioning recent diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran.
He said peace is the only path forward, whether in Kashmir or anywhere else in the world.
Security Tightened Ahead of Anniversary
As the anniversary approaches, security has been increased in tourist areas such as Pahalgam and Gulmarg.
Prayer gatherings and remembrance events are expected as the region continues healing after the tragedy.
Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have increased security across the Kashmir Valley ahead of the first anniversary of the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people on April 22, 2025.
Police, CRPF, and other security agencies have increased patrolling, surprise checking, and surveillance in sensitive areas.
Officials said all security forces have been asked to remain alert against any possible threat. Popular tourist spots, religious shrines, hotels, and public areas are under extra watch.
Special attention has been given to Pahalgam, where the 2025 attack happened in the Baisaran Valley meadow area.
New Safety Steps in Pahalgam
Authorities have introduced a QR code identity system for tourism workers such as pony operators, vendors, and hawkers.
Each approved worker will carry a unique QR code linked to identity details, verification records, and route permissions.
Officials believe this system will help improve visitor safety and better monitoring.
Border and LoC Also on Alert
Security deployment has also been increased along the International Border and the Line of Control after reports of possible infiltration attempts.
Senior officers, including V.K. Birdi, have reviewed the security plan through meetings in Srinagar.
Tourists Returning to Kashmir
Despite anniversary concerns, tourists are returning to Kashmir in good numbers. Many visitors said they feel safe because of better security arrangements.
Tourism officials and local businesses hope the summer season will continue strongly after the slowdown caused by last year’s attack.
Background of the Pahalgam Attack
The April 22, 2025 attack shocked the Valley and badly affected tourism. Gunmen opened fire in Baisaran Valley, killing tourists and a local pony operator.
The incident also raised tensions between India and Pakistan.
What Happens Next?
Authorities say the situation is being closely monitored and rapid response teams are ready.
The coming days are important as Kashmir tries to protect peace, reassure tourists, and honour the victims of the tragic Pahalgam attack.
The streets of Kashmir are unusually quiet today, Monday, April 20, 2026. Private transporters across the Valley have launched a full-scale “Chakka Jam” (transport strike). From Sumos and taxis to minibuses, almost all private commercial vehicles have stayed off the roads.
The protest, organized by the All Jammu and Kashmir Transport Welfare Association, is a direct response to the government’s plan to run Smart City electric buses on routes outside Srinagar. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
How the Shutdown is Impacting Daily Life
The sudden lack of transport has created a ripple effect, making it difficult for people from all walks of life to go about their day.
Students & Education: This is perhaps the biggest concern. Many students could not reach their exam centers. In response, Kashmir University has announced special exam dates for those affected by the strike.
Healthcare Challenges: Patients needing routine check-ups or life-saving treatments faced major hurdles. Traveling to hospitals from remote villages became nearly impossible without private taxis.
Office Workers: Government and private employees struggled to reach their desks. While some walked long distances, many were forced to stay home, leading to a significant drop in productivity.
Local Businesses: Markets saw fewer customers, and shop owners found it hard to move goods or meet clients, leading to financial losses for the day.
The Root of the Conflict: Tradition vs. Modernity
Why are the transporters so angry? It comes down to livelihood.
The drivers argue that the expansion of the government-run Smart City electric buses into district routes will steal their passengers. They fear that thousands of families who depend on the private transport industry will fall into poverty.
While the public generally enjoys the comfort of the new electric buses, the local transporters feel they are being pushed out of the market without a safety net. They are demanding that the administration sit down for talks to find a solution that protects their income while still modernizing the city.
What’s Next?
As of now, the strike is a one-day protest. however, the Transport Welfare Association has warned that if the government does not address their concerns quickly, more strikes could follow.
Security officials at Srinagar International Airport detained two US Nationals on Sunday, April 19, 2026, after a prohibited satellite phone was discovered in their luggage during routine pre-boarding checks.
Incident Overview
The discovery occurred during a standard X-ray screening of baggage. According to official reports, the device—a Garmin satellite phone—was found in the possession of Jeffrey Scott Prather, a resident of Montana, USA. He was accompanied by Haldar Koushik, a resident of Kolkata, who was also taken into custody for questioning.
Following the recovery, both men were intercepted by airport security and subsequently handed over to the local police for a formal investigation. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Why Satellite Phones are Restricted
In India, the possession and use of satellite communication devices (such as Thuraya or Iridium phones) are strictly regulated under the Indian Telegraph Act.
National Security: Due to the sensitive nature of the region, unauthorized communication devices are viewed as a high security risk.
Legal Requirements: Travelers must obtain written permission from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) to carry such equipment.
Penalties: Failure to declare these devices can lead to heavy fines, seizure of equipment, and potential arrest.
Travel Warnings
This incident highlights the ongoing strict enforcement of telecom laws at Indian airports. Earlier this year, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued a directive requiring airlines to warn international passengers about the ban on satellite phones via in-flight announcements and overseas booking offices.
Travel advisories from the U.S. State Department also warn citizens that carrying such devices into India—even for emergency use in remote areas—can result in immediate detention.
Authorities are currently investigating the purpose of the duo’s visit and why the device was brought into the valley without the necessary permits.
In the ongoing TCS Nashik case, police are still searching for Nida Khan, one of the main accused. She has been missing for about one week now. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The big new update is that Nida Khan’s husband was questioned by the police on Friday. During questioning, he gave the cops her possible location. He told them that Nida left their home on April 14 and was staying at a relative’s house in the Mumbai area (some reports mention Mumbra or nearby places).
Police teams quickly went to the address given by her husband. But when they reached there, they found the house locked. Both Nida Khan’s mobile phone and the relative’s phone were switched off. This has made it harder for the police to trace her.
Her husband has given some conflicting statements about where she is, which has made the investigation more difficult. Police say they are using technical methods and have formed special teams to find her.
Nida Khan’s family has a different story. They say she is not hiding and is staying safely in Mumbai. They also claim that she is pregnant and expecting her first child. Because of this, Nida Khan has approached a court in Nashik for anticipatory bail (protection from arrest before being taken into custody). Her lawyer says her pregnancy and health will be important points in the bail plea.
What is the TCS Nashik Case?
Multiple complaints were filed in Nashik against some employees of a TCS-linked BPO unit. The allegations include sexual harassment, abuse, and forced religious conversion (a so-called “conversion racket”).
So far, police have arrested seven people — six men and one woman. Nida Khan’s name has come up in the FIRs, and some reports call her a key figure or “mastermind”. However, TCS has clearly stated that Nida Khan was not an HR manager or head. She worked only as a process associate or telecaller with no power to recruit or manage people. The company also said no official complaints of harassment were received through their internal channels.
Police are looking at WhatsApp chats, call records, and other digital evidence. The case is being handled by a Special Investigation Team (SIT).
Current Situation
Nida Khan is still absconding according to police.
Her exact location remains unknown after the locked house lead.
The investigation is continuing, and more details may come out soon.
Courts will decide on the bail applications and the truth of the allegations.
This is a developing story. All sides — police, family, and the company — have shared their versions. The final facts will be decided by the investigation and the courts.
Kashmir’s chief cleric, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, expressed deep concern on Saturday regarding the continued incarceration of separatist leader Shabir Ahmed Shah. Despite being granted bail by the Supreme Court recently, Shah now faces proceedings in a fresh case dating back to 1996. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), the Mirwaiz highlighted that Shah is currently elderly and “critically ailing.” He argued that the leader is being persecuted despite having already served a total of 39 years in prison for his political beliefs.
The “Revolving Door” Policy
The Mirwaiz specifically criticised what he termed a “revolving door policy” within the legal system. He explained that this practice involves replacing one case with another as soon as a prisoner is granted relief, ensuring they remain behind bars indefinitely.
“This revolving door policy completely undermines the justice system, where one case replaces another to ensure continued incarceration,” the Mirwaiz stated.
Appeal for Compassion
The appeal was directed at the Government of India, urging authorities to consider the humanitarian aspect of the situation.
Health Concerns: Shah’s family has frequently raised alarms about his deteriorating health in Tihar Jail.
Family Suffering: Mirwaiz appealed for an end to the prolonged suffering of both Shah and his family members.
Latest Legal Updates
While the Supreme Court granted Shah bail on 12 March 2026 due to his long incarceration and the slow progress of his trial, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has reportedly started proceedings in an old case from 1996. Shah was produced in a Delhi court on Friday evening and has been granted a three-day transit remand to be produced in Jammu on Monday.
The Mirwaiz concluded by calling for Shah’s immediate release, asking the government to show compassion given his advanced age and medical condition.
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has arrested Shabir Ahmad Shah in connection with a 1996 case registered in Jammu and Kashmir.Officials said Shah was produced before the Patiala House Court on Friday evening. The court granted the agency three days of transit remand. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The NIA will now take him to Jammu and Kashmir, where he is expected to be produced before a local court on Monday for further legal proceedings.The case is linked to an FIR registered at Shergarhi Police Station on July 17, 1996.
The arrest of Shabir Ahmad Shah is seen as an important step in the ongoing investigation into old cases in Jammu and Kashmir. More details are expected after the next court hearing.
There were tears, prayers, and big smiles at Hajj House Bemina on Saturday morning as the first group of Kashmiri pilgrims left for Saudi Arabia. This departure marks the start of the yearly spiritual journey to Islam’s holiest sites.
Families gathered early in Srinagar to say emotional goodbyes to their loved ones. The atmosphere was filled with devotion; children waved to their grandparents, and many people were seen praying silently as the departure time got closer. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
A Blessing for Families
For many, this journey is a lifelong dream. Ali Mohammad Mir, an elderly pilgrim from Srinagar, said, “It feels like Allah has invited us to His house. We have waited many years for this moment.”
One woman, seeing off her parents, shared the mixed feelings of the crowd: “We are sad because they are leaving us, but so happy because they are going for Hajj. It is a blessing for our whole family.”
Departure Details and Flights
Dr Shujaat Ahmad Qureshi, Executive Officer of the Hajj Committee, confirmed that 431 pilgrims are scheduled to fly out on the first day across three flights. The group consists of:
230 men
201 women
Dr Qureshi noted that all arrangements for transport, medical checks, and luggage were handled smoothly to ensure the pilgrims had a comfortable start to their trip.
Guidance for Travelers
Pilgrims have been asked to arrive at the Hajj House according to their specific flight times. Officials have reminded everyone to carry their essential documents, including:
Passports
Visa copies
Vaccination cards
Authorities also advised pilgrims to stick to the baggage limits and avoid carrying any banned items to ensure a hassle-free journey.
The Member of Parliament from Baramulla, Engineer Rashid, said no prison sentence could stop him from speaking for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He became emotional while speaking in the Lok Sabha.
He said, “Even if I am born 100 times and sent to jail 100 times, I will continue to speak for the people of Jammu and Kashmir until my last breath.” Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Rashid also claimed that the system wanted to silence every person who dares to speak the truth, whether inside prison or outside.During his speech, he spoke about his sick father and said he may not be able to see him for the last time. He added that his father had been in hospital for the past 20 days.
He also sent an emotional message to his mother, sister, daughter, sister-in-law and wife. He said, “Please do not lose hope or courage. Forgive me.”The MP also questioned the delimitation process in Jammu and Kashmir. He said the real day of women’s power would be when Kashmiri political prisoners are released, Kashmiri Pandits return safely, and families of people missing since the 1990s get answers.
Rashid also criticised the 33 per cent quota system. He said it creates a feeling of superiority and argued that education-based empowerment is better than reservation policies.He added that if India truly wants to become a superpower, it must focus on empowerment instead of reservation.
In a major development in the high-profile TCS Nashik case, Nida Khan—one of the central accused in allegations of sexual harassment, coercion, and religious pressure at the company’s BPO unit—has been formally suspended by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). The suspension letter, dated April 9, 2026, surfaced on April 17, highlighting the company’s zero-tolerance policy toward workplace misconduct. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The letter, signed by the Nashik, Pune, and Goa branch HR head Shekhar Kamble, states: “This is to inform you that the Company has been made aware of a serious matter reported against you… Considering the seriousness of the matter as reported and that you are presently unable to discharge your official duties, the Company has decided to place you under suspension with immediate effect until further communication and decision in the matter by the Management.” It also revoked her access to the TCS network and barred her from entering company premises.
Clarification on Nida Khan’s Role at TCS
Initial media reports described Nida Khan (aged 26) as an HR manager or “HR head” who allegedly ignored complaints and acted as a link between victims and accused team leaders. However, her official suspension letter clarifies her designation as a Process Associate (or Project Associate/Telecaller in some accounts). She joined TCS on December 27, 2021, and had reportedly been transferred to the company’s Malad (Mumbai) BPO unit several months earlier. Sources indicate she was not part of the core HR team, contradicting earlier claims.
Her family maintains she has been living in Mumbai since January 2026 with her husband and is expecting her first child. They deny all allegations, calling them fabricated, and assert she is not absconding but at home.
Background of the Nashik TCS Case
The controversy erupted after multiple complaints from employees—primarily women, along with at least one male complainant—alleging a disturbing pattern of sexual harassment, assault, blackmail, obscene language, and pressure to adopt religious practices or convert over nearly four years (roughly 2022–early 2026).
Nine FIRs have been registered across Nashik police stations (including Deolali Camp and Mumbai Naka).
Allegations include molestation, outraging modesty, criminal intimidation, hurting religious sentiments, and in some cases, mocking Hindu deities or festivals.
Police describe an alleged “organized gang” involving certain team leaders who targeted vulnerable recruits, with claims of coercion into personal relationships and religious changes.
A Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by senior officers is probing digital evidence, emails, chats, and testimonies. Undercover police operations reportedly helped uncover the extent of the issue.
So far, seven to eight employees (mostly men, including names like Danish Sheikh, Tausif Attar, Raza Memon, Shahrukh Qureshi, Shafi Sheikh, and Asif Aftab Ansari) have been arrested. TCS has suspended all accused staff linked to the FIRs and stated it is fully cooperating with the police investigation. The company reiterated its longstanding zero-tolerance policy on harassment and coercion of any form. Operations at the Nashik unit were temporarily adjusted, with employees asked to work from home amid safety concerns and protests.
Nida Khan’s Legal Status
Nida Khan has filed an application for anticipatory bail in a Nashik court, citing her pregnancy as a key ground for relief. Her lawyer argues that the FIRs against her do not contain explicit charges of “forced conversion” in every case and that she faces limited sections, such as those related to hurting religious sentiments. Police continue to trace her whereabouts, with some teams searching in Mumbai, though her family insists she is not on the run.
The case has sparked widespread public debate, with protests by groups like Bajrang Dal demanding justice and stricter action. Some reports mention broader angles (possible trafficking or organized elements), but Nashik police have clarified their probe is currently limited to the nine FIRs on harassment and conversion-related complaints, with other aspects referred to central agencies if needed.
TCS’s Response
TCS has emphasized that it takes all such complaints seriously and has launched an internal inquiry. The company has suspended the involved employees pending further decisions and is providing support for improved reporting mechanisms. The incident has once again put the spotlight on workplace safety, POSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) compliance, and grievance redressal in India’s large IT-BPO sector.
This remains a developing story. Investigations are ongoing, and all accused are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Fresh complaints continue to emerge, with some survivors coming forward after initial arrests. Authorities are examining whether lapses in internal complaint handling contributed to the alleged prolonged misconduct.
As the SIT digs deeper into evidence and more details surface regarding roles, timelines, and specific incidents, the case underscores the importance of robust internal safeguards in corporate environments.
(Last updated: April 17, 2026. For the latest court hearings or police updates, refer to official sources.)
In a significant move following the high-profile scandal at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) in Nashik, the company has officially suspended the primary accused, Nida Khan. The case, which involves allegations of workplace harassment and religious coercion, has now reached the Supreme Court of India.
Key Developments in the Case
Official Suspension: TCS issued a formal suspension letter to Nida Khan, effective immediately. The company stated it has a “zero-tolerance policy” towards any form of misconduct. Her access to company networks and premises has been completely revoked.
Role Clarification: While initial reports described Khan as a senior HR manager, TCS clarified that her actual designation was Process Associate. The company emphasized that she did not hold a leadership or recruitment role within the HR department.
Supreme Court Involvement: The matter has gained national attention, with a petition filed in the Supreme Court. The plea calls for stricter national laws regarding forced conversions and highlights the Nashik incident as a matter of concern for workplace safety.
Police Investigation: The Special Investigation Team (SIT) is currently mapping a four-year pattern of alleged harassment at the Nashik BPO unit. Investigators are looking into claims that multiple employees were pressured over a long period.
Legal Status and Arrests
To date, at least eight individuals have been arrested in connection with the case. Nida Khan’s legal team has reportedly moved for anticipatory bail, citing her pregnancy as a ground for relief. However, the police continue to trace all leads across Maharashtra to ensure a thorough investigation.
What’s Next?
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has also taken notice of the situation, requesting a detailed report from the Maharashtra Director General of Police. As the SIT continues to gather evidence, more details regarding the internal corporate safeguards at TCS are expected to surface.
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Mehbooba Mufti has said that senior leaders linked to the Bharatiya Janata Party reached the doorstep of Syed Ali Shah Geelani during the PDP-BJP coalition government in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Peoples Democratic Party president said the coalition was not formed for power, but to protect Article 370 and create a path for dialogue in Kashmir.
She argued that her government worked to reduce tensions and encourage political engagement.
Claim of Talks With Separatists
Mehbooba Mufti said efforts were made to engage separatist leaders, including initiatives that brought top Indian leadership close to Geelani.
Her remarks referred to attempts for dialogue during a difficult political period in the region.
Youth Release and Peace Measures
She also claimed that around 12,000 young people were released from jails during her tenure.Mufti said these steps were taken to build trust and reduce unrest.
Reference to Ramzan Ceasefire
She pointed to the 2018 Ramzan ceasefire as another example of outreach and peace efforts during her government.
Political Debate Continues
Her comments have again brought attention to the PDP-BJP alliance years, which remain one of the most debated political periods in Jammu and Kashmir’s recent history.
Maulana Amir Hamza, a senior leader and co-founder of the banned militant outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), was reportedly shot and seriously wounded in Lahore after unidentified gunmen opened fire on his vehicle.
According to reports circulating in Pakistani media and social platforms, the attack took place near Peco Road after Hamza had allegedly completed a media appearance. Two assailants riding a motorcycle are said to have intercepted his car and fired multiple shots before fleeing the scene.
Hamza, aged 66, sustained severe injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he is reportedly in critical condition. Another person travelling with him, identified as Nazir Ahmed Ghazi, was also injured.
No Official Confirmation Yet
As of now, there has been no formal statement from Lahore Police, Pakistan’s security agencies, or the government regarding the identity of the attackers or the motive behind the shooting.
Authorities are believed to be reviewing CCTV footage and gathering evidence, while security has reportedly been tightened around the hospital where Hamza is being treated.
Who is Amir Hamza?
Amir Hamza is widely known as one of the founding figures of Lashkar-e-Taiba, the Pakistan-based militant group designated as a terrorist organisation by several countries, including India and the United States.
He has long been considered one of the organisation’s most influential ideologues and propagandists, second only to Hafiz Muhammad Saeed in prominence.
Hamza has been linked by international agencies to extremist recruitment, publications, and operational support networks. The US Treasury designated him as a global terrorist in 2012.
Pattern of Mysterious Attacks
The shooting comes amid a series of unexplained attacks and deaths involving figures linked to militant groups inside Pakistan over the past two years.
Several former commanders and recruiters associated with LeT and similar networks have reportedly been targeted by unknown assailants in cities such as Lahore, Karachi, and Rawalpindi.
These incidents have sparked speculation over internal rivalries, factional disputes, and covert operations, though no public evidence has confirmed any theory.
Reactions
The development has drawn significant attention on social media, especially in India, where many users described the attack as a major blow to LeT’s senior leadership.
No statement has yet been issued by Jamaat-ud-Dawa, often regarded as LeT’s front organisation, or by Hamza’s close associates.
Developing Story
Hamza’s exact medical condition remains unclear, and further updates are expected once Pakistani authorities release official details. The incident once again highlights the uncertain and dangerous environment surrounding banned militant networks operating inside Pakistan.
Sopore Police in north Kashmir have registered an FIR against unidentified individuals for allegedly spreading rumours and false information on social media.
According to officials, FIR No. 93/2026 has been lodged at Police Station Sopore under relevant legal sections.
Police said an investigation has already started to identify those involved.
Warning Over Fake Content
In a public advisory, Sopore Police asked citizens not to create, share, or spread unverified posts on social media platforms.
Officials warned that those found involved in spreading rumours or false claims online may face legal action.
Use Only Official Sources
Police also advised people to trust only official information released by government departments or law enforcement agencies.Authorities said responsible use of social media is important to maintain peace and public order in the area.
Joint Director Education Hakeem Tanvir on Tuesday described the ransacking of a government girls’ school in Sopore as unfortunate and harmful for students, staff, and the town.
Hakeem Tanvir said a teacher accused of misconduct was suspended on the same day the complaint was received.He added that the education department also ordered an inquiry into the matter.An FIR has also been registered, and police will investigate the case.
Heavy Damage to School Property
The official said protesters damaged doors, walls, and classrooms during the unrest.Broken glass was reportedly scattered inside the school, and classes could not be held on Tuesday because of the destruction.He said it was deeply sad because the institution exists for the children of Sopore.
Appeal for Responsibility
Tanvir urged teachers, parents, society, and the media to work together in guiding children with good values and responsibility.He said destroying school property was not the right response and has caused loss to everyone.He also mentioned that even the school principal was personally helping to clean the premises.
Classes to Restart Thursday
The Joint Director confirmed that educational activities are expected to resume from Thursday.He said the department would take any further action if necessary, but not unnecessary action.
Police Investigation Continues
He added that where criminal offences are involved, the law will take its course and police will handle that part of the case.
A leading UK Sikh organisation has started a crowdfunding campaign to challenge the British government’s new definition of “anti-Muslim hostility” in court.
The Network of Sikh Organisations said the new guidance could harm free speech, religious freedom, and equal treatment for all faith communities. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The group is led by Lord Singh of Wimbledon and is working with the Free Speech Union, Christian Institute, and other organisations.
Why the Sikh Group Is Challenging It
The British government introduced the new non-binding definition in March 2026. Officials said it is meant to help tackle rising anti-Muslim incidents in the country.
However, the Sikh organisation says parts of the wording are too unclear and may stop people from openly discussing religion, history, or social issues.
They believe it could create fear around speaking freely.
Main Concerns Raised
The group says the policy may affect rights such as:
Freedom of religion
Freedom of expression
Equal treatment under the law
They also argue the guidance focuses only on one faith community while there is no similar framework for Sikhs, Hindus, or others.
Examples of Possible Problems
Critics say discussions about history, cultural practices, integration issues, or religious beliefs could wrongly be labelled as hostility.
They warn this may lead to self-censorship in public debate.
Government Response
The UK Government says the definition does not create any new laws and does not ban criticism of religion.
Ministers say it is only a practical tool for public bodies and employers to identify real cases of abuse or discrimination against Muslims.
What Happens Next
The Sikh group is raising money to seek a judicial review, where judges would examine whether the policy is fair and lawful.
The case could become an important test for how Britain balances hate crime protections with free speech and equal treatment in a multi-faith society.
Donald Trump held a nearly 40-minute phone call with Narendra Modi on Tuesday, where both leaders discussed the India-US partnership and the growing crisis in West Asia.
In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi described Trump as “my friend” and said the two leaders reviewed progress in bilateral cooperation across several sectors.
He added that both sides also discussed the West Asia situation and agreed that the Strait of Hormuz must remain open and secure for the benefit of the whole world.
Modi said India supports de-escalation and the restoration of peace as soon as possible.
Why Strait of Hormuz Matters
The Strait of Hormuz is one of the world’s most important shipping routes, especially for oil and gas trade.
For India, uninterrupted movement through the route is critical because the country imports a large amount of energy through the Gulf region.
Any disruption could increase oil prices and create supply problems worldwide.
Strong India-US Partnership
The two leaders also discussed continued growth in the India-US strategic partnership.
Cooperation between both countries has expanded in defence, technology, trade, energy, and supply chains in recent years.
Call Comes During Regional Tensions
The phone call came shortly after recent US-Iran talks in Islamabad ended without a deal.
Tensions in West Asia remain high following conflict involving the US, Israel, and Iran.
Leaders Agree to Stay in Contact
Both Trump and Modi agreed to remain in touch regarding efforts for peace and stability.
The latest conversation also reflects the strong personal relationship between the two leaders during a time of major international uncertainty.
