Jammu

Jammu / Kashmir / Politics

J&K Political Parties Condemn Assault on SpiceJet Staff by Army Officer at Srinagar Airport, Demand Accountability

by
J&K Political Parties

Political parties in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday strongly condemned the assault on four SpiceJet employees at Srinagar International Airport, allegedly carried out by a senior Army officer last week. They demanded strict action and accountability to prevent such incidents from being repeated.

The incident, which occurred on July 26, involved a violent altercation between the officer and the SpiceJet ground staff when he was asked to pay for excess cabin baggage before boarding a flight to Delhi. According to the airline, the officer brutally attacked staff members at the boarding gate, leaving one with a spinal fracture and others with serious injuries.

🔻 NC and PDP React Strongly

Sarah Hayat Shah, spokesperson of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC), condemned the attack, calling it “gundagardi” (hooliganism).

“This incident took place at Srinagar Airport, where an Army officer was seen brutally assaulting SpiceJet staff member(s), leaving him with serious injuries. It is highly condemnable and shameful. The officer must be held accountable,” she said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Iltija Mufti, PDP leader and daughter of former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti, also lashed out at the alleged attacker and demanded exemplary punishment.

“How dare this Army officer launch a murderous assault on employees at Srinagar airport simply for refusing excess cabin luggage? His demonic rage left one of the victims with a spinal fracture. @ChinarcorpsIA @adgpi — Please take immediate action to set an example,” she posted on X.

🔻 SpiceJet’s Statement and Legal Action

In its official statement issued on Sunday, SpiceJet confirmed that a First Information Report (FIR) has been filed with the local police, and the airline has begun the process of placing the officer on India’s no-fly list, as per civil aviation rules.

The airline said:

“The assault took place after the passenger was told to pay for the extra cabin baggage. Four employees were attacked. One fainted on the floor but continued to be kicked and hit even while unconscious. One suffered a spinal fracture; another had facial injuries after being kicked in the jaw.”

SpiceJet also stated that CCTV footage of the incident has been handed over to authorities.

“We strongly condemn any act of violence against our employees and will pursue the matter to its fullest legal and regulatory conclusion,” the airline said.

🔻 Public Outrage and Calls for Justice

The shocking nature of the attack has sparked widespread outrage across social media and political circles, with many urging the Army leadership and Ministry of Defence to take swift disciplinary action and not allow the uniform to shield unacceptable behavior.

While the identity of the officer has not been officially disclosed, pressure is mounting on the Indian Army’s Chinar Corps and Defence Ministry to issue a public response and update on the disciplinary measures being taken.

🔚 Conclusion:
The assault has not only raised questions about aviation security and passenger behavior but also placed a spotlight on the need for equal accountability—regardless of position or profession. Political leaders, civil society, and the airline industry are now closely watching the developments, hoping for a transparent and just resolution.

Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

You Might Also Like:

Dr. Shaheena Akhtar Becomes First Female PhD in Persian

Why Strengthening BRICS Better Serves India’s Future Than Leaning Towards the United States

Lalla Ded Hospital Video Sparks Probe After Doctor Films Inside OT; Health Dept Orders 24-Hour Inquiry

Jammu / Kashmir / News

Hindu-Muslim Duo Walks 2,000 km for Amarnath Yatra, Spreads Message of Peace and Unity Across India

by
Message of Peace

Amid the ongoing Shri Amarnathji Yatra, a remarkable tale of interfaith unity has captured the hearts of many. Two men—Syed Saddam, a Muslim, and Kumar Makkhan, a Hindu—have completed a 2,000-kilometre journey on foot from Porbandar, Gujarat, to Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, carrying the national flag and a powerful message: India stands for peace, brotherhood, and unity across all faiths.

The journey, which took 65 days, began in the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi and ended in the valley of devotion. The duo walked side by side through highways, rural paths, and city streets, drawing attention not just for their endurance but for the spirit of communal harmony they embodied.

“India’s First Non-Violent Interfaith Yatra”

Speaking to the press, Syed Saddam said, “I am from Porbandar. This is India’s first non-violent yatra between a Hindu and a Muslim that began from Gandhi’s land. Our aim is to wave the tricolour in Kashmir and promote peace.”

He continued, “We condemn terrorism and call on the government to act decisively against it. We are all one—Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, Christian. We’ve sown the seeds of unity, and one day, it will grow into a global tree of peace.”

“Remove Hatred, Spread Love”

Kumar Makkhan, Saddam’s companion on this spiritual mission, was equally moved by the experience. “This journey has filled our hearts with joy. My brother Saddam is like a second Gandhi from Gujarat—he unites people. Our only message is: replace hatred with love. We are all brothers under the same sky.”

Their walk, he said, was not just a religious pilgrimage, but a call for national integration and human unity.

A Message for the Nation

In times when communal tensions often make headlines, stories like these serve as a powerful reminder of India’s syncretic soul. This 2,000-km walk wasn’t funded by any organisation, nor driven by publicity—it was led by conviction, belief, and a dream of an India free from hatred.

Their arrival in Pahalgam, at the base of the holy Amarnath shrine, was met with warmth and admiration by pilgrims and locals alike. Many saw it not just as the end of a journey, but as the beginning of a national conversation on coexistence.

The Road Ahead

While their yatra has concluded, their mission has just begun. “Wherever we go, we’ll carry this message,” said Saddam. “We want to inspire others to take up the flag of peace—whether they are Hindu, Muslim, Sikh, or Christian.”

This extraordinary journey shows that India’s true strength lies in its unity, and that the path to peace may be long, but it begins with small steps—taken together.

Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

You Might Also Like:

Dr. Shaheena Akhtar Becomes First Female PhD in Persian

Renowned Sufi Saint Peer Muhammad Aslam of Sallar Passes Away, Kashmir Mourns

Lalla Ded Hospital Video Sparks Probe After Doctor Films Inside OT; Health Dept Orders 24-Hour Inquiry

Developing Story / Health / Jammu / Kashmir

Sakina Itoo Announces 621 New Posts in Health & Medical Education Department to Boost Healthcare and Employment

by
New Posts in Health

In a major push to healthcare development and youth employment, Jammu and Kashmir’s Health Minister Sakina Itoo on Wednesday announced the advertisement of 621 new posts in the Health & Medical Education Department.

Taking to social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the Minister said the move aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to improve healthcare infrastructure and generate jobs for the youth.

“In line with the vision of Hon’ble CM to strengthen healthcare services and boost youth employment, we are pleased to announce the advertisement of 621 posts in the Health & Medical Education Department,” Sakina Itoo wrote.

The recruitment drive is expected to fill key vacancies across various healthcare institutions in the Union Territory, and will be seen as part of a broader policy focus on expanding access to quality medical care while addressing unemployment.

Further details regarding post-wise distribution, eligibility, and application process are likely to be shared in the coming days through official channels.

Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

You Might Also Like:

Historic Tableeghi Ijtima to Be Held in Sopore After 37 Years

NIA Launches Probe into Killing of Pahalgam Attack Mastermind in Srinagar

Rahul Gandhi Sponsors Education of 22 Children from Shelling-Hit Poonch After Operation Sindoor

Jammu / Kashmir / News

Jammu-Srinagar Highway Remains Open Despite Rains; Schools Shut, Khari–Mahoo Road Blocked in Ramban

by
Jammu-Srinagar Highway

The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway remains open for traffic despite continuous heavy rainfall in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ramban district, officials told Greater Kashmir.

They said, “Jammu-Srinagar National Highway open for traffic despite rains across Ramban district since morning”However, the Khari–Mahoo road in Sub-Division Banihal of Ramban district has been blocked near the Siran railway bridge due to mudslides.

Meanwhile, the government this morning ordered the closure of all government and private schools for today due to rains and bad weather in the district as a precautionary measure.

( News Copied From Greater Kashmir Online Version)

Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

You Might Also Like:

Historic Tableeghi Ijtima to Be Held in Sopore After 37 Years

NIA Launches Probe into Killing of Pahalgam Attack Mastermind in Srinagar

Rahul Gandhi Sponsors Education of 22 Children from Shelling-Hit Poonch After Operation Sindoor

Education / Jammu / Kashmir

Rahul Gandhi Sponsors Education of 22 Children from Shelling-Hit Poonch After Operation Sindoor

by
Rahul Gandhi Sponsors

In a heartfelt gesture of support and compassion, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi has taken the initiative to sponsor the education of 22 children from Poonch, a border district in Jammu and Kashmir severely affected by cross-border shelling following Operation Sindoor.

This step is being seen as a significant humanitarian gesture aimed at helping families devastated by the recent escalation of violence along the Line of Control (LoC). The sponsored children come from households that have suffered due to Pakistani shelling, which claimed the lives of at least 13 civilians and left many families traumatised and displaced.

Fulfilling a Personal Promise

According to Tariq Hamid Karra, senior Congress leader and President of the Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC), Rahul Gandhi made a personal commitment to these families during his visit to the region shortly after Operation Sindoor. He promised to ensure that the children’s education would not be interrupted due to the tragic circumstances their families were facing.

“Rahul Ji had said he would do something personally for the children. Today, he has fulfilled that promise,” said Karra while speaking at an official event held in Poonch town on Tuesday morning. The event was organised to formally hand over financial aid sent by Rahul Gandhi for the children’s education.

Aid May Expand to More Children

While 22 children have been included in the initial list of beneficiaries, Karra stated that the number is expected to grow as more families in similar situations are identified. “This is not a one-time gesture. More children from affected areas may be added in the coming weeks after verification,” he added.

The selected children are expected to receive full educational sponsorship, including tuition fees, school supplies, uniforms, and other necessary support to help them continue their studies uninterrupted.

A Symbol of Compassion and Political Responsibility

The initiative has drawn appreciation from across the political spectrum. MLA Rajouri, Iftikhar Ahmed, praised Rahul Gandhi’s efforts and called it a “humane and empathetic decision”.

“Rahul Gandhi has always empathized with the pain of the common man, especially in conflict-hit zones. This is not just financial help — it is a strong message that their suffering has not gone unnoticed,” said Ahmed.

Rahul Gandhi’s move comes at a time when political debates around the civilian cost of Operation Sindoor and the impact on border residents are intensifying in Parliament and civil society. His outreach is being viewed as an attempt to bridge the growing disconnect between national security actions and grassroots humanitarian needs.

Background: Operation Sindoor and Its Fallout

Operation Sindoor, launched earlier this year, aimed to counter militant infiltration and eliminate cross-border terror infrastructure. However, in the days following the operation, intense shelling and retaliatory fire were reported along multiple sectors of the LoC, with Poonch emerging as one of the worst-affected districts.

Dozens of homes were damaged, and several border villages were evacuated temporarily. Educational institutions remained shut for weeks, and children, particularly from vulnerable communities, faced uncertainty about their academic futures.

In this context, Rahul Gandhi’s support is being seen as a concrete and timely intervention that focuses not only on relief but also on long-term rehabilitation through education.

Looking Ahead

As the Congress party leadership continues to engage with affected regions, officials indicated that similar educational support programs may be extended to Rajouri, Uri, and Karnah, depending on available resources and local needs.

Tariq Hamid Karra concluded the event by expressing hope that other political leaders and parties will follow suit and prioritise the future of children living in conflict zones.

“War leaves deep scars, especially on the youngest members of our society. Supporting their education is the most powerful way to heal those wounds,” he said.

Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

You Might Also Like:

Justice and Development Front (JDF) J&K Holds Workers Convention in Baramulla

Fake Embassy Scam: Harshvardhan Jain’s Rs 300 Crore Fraud, 162 Foreign Trips

Grand Milad-un-Nabi (ﷺ) and Ahmad Raza Khan Conference Held in Malpora, Baramulla

Jammu / News

Shree Machail Mata Yatra 2025 Begins with Over 4,900 Pilgrims; Administration Ensures Smooth Journey and Facilities

by
Machail Mata Yatra 2025

The revered Shree Machail Mata Yatra 2025, which officially commenced on July 25, 2025, touched nearly 5 thousand mark with 4,944 pilgrims (3861 males, 776 females and 307 children) performing Darshan at the Holy Shree Chandi Mata Mandir at Village Machail in Paddar Valley.

This annual Yatra is one of the most significant pilgrimages in the Jammu Division as its popularity has soared in past years, with about 3 lakh pilgrims visiting last year alone.

Pilgrims along with the holy mace (Chhari) procession will proceed from Jammu on August 17 towards Darbar following traditional path and transits. The Yatra shall conclude on 5 September.
The weather at Machail Bhawan remains clear, ensuring a smooth experience for the devotees.

The Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar in collaboration with the district administration Kishtwar, spearheaded by Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma and local administration, is diligently working to ensure comprehensive arrangements for the Yatris this year.

Langars by devotees near Bhawan Machail and en-route are offering meals to the pilgrims. Additionally, lodging facilities have been made available at the Yatri Bhawan Gulabgarh, Sapphire Guest House, luxury mushroom tents, along with various tent accommodations and Yatri Sarai near Chandi Mata Bhawan, Machail for the comfort of the devotees.

With the footfall expected to exceed 5 lakh this year, Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar Pankaj Kumar Sharma has appealed Yatris to follow guidelines/SoPs and Yatra timings religiously.
The Departure Timing from Kishtwar to Gulabgarh is 05:00 AM to 05:00 PM, Gulabgarh to Machail – 04:30 AM to 04:30 PM and Arrival Timing Machail to Gulabgarh – 04:30 AM to 04:30 PM, Gulabgarh to Kishtwar- 05:00 AM to 05:00 PM.

To ensure a safe and pleasant journey for the pilgrims, the administration has upgraded the road connectivity and made adequate arrangements of water supply, sanitation, security and online registration through the website.

The addition of a road up to Chashoti on the Gulabgarh to Machail axis has significantly reduced the trekking distance, now taking approximately 3-4 hours. Furthermore, the road from Chishoti to Hamori is clear, with the only pending work being the construction of a bridge at Chishoti, which is progressing rapidly and is expected to be completed soon.

New bridges and repairs to existing infrastructure aim to provide a safe and hassle-free experience for Yatris amid challenging geography.

The pilgrims can visit the official Machail Yatra website at www.shrimachailmatayatra.com for online registration and get updated information regarding the Yatra, including, routes and other facilities.

This resource is designed to help pilgrims stay informed and address any queries they may have. Yatris are advised to carry their Aadhar cards and review the guidelines on the website.

The administration remains committed to ensuring a seamless and spiritually fulfilling experience for all devotees participating in the Shree Machail Yatra this year.

Health / Jammu / Kashmir / Kashmir services / News

J&K Govt Makes White Aprons, Name Plates Mandatory for All Healthcare Staff in Govt Hospitals

by
MBBS abroad

The Jammu and Kashmir Health and Medical Education Department has issued fresh directions making it mandatory for all doctors and paramedical staff to wear proper white aprons and clearly legible name plates during duty hours in government healthcare institutions across the Union Territory.

The directive, issued through a circular by the Civil Secretariat, cites non-compliance with existing norms regarding uniforms and identification by staff in various institutions.

The department observed that the lack of adherence was causing inconvenience to patients in identifying healthcare professionals.

“All doctors, including those engaged under NHM and Ayush, as well as paramedical staff, are hereby directed to wear proper white aprons and display name plates showing their full name and designation at all times while on duty,” the circular reads.

Heads of institutions, medical superintendents, and chief medical officers have been instructed to ensure strict compliance with these directions in their respective facilities.The move aims to improve accountability, professionalism, and patient satisfaction in government healthcare services.

Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

You Might Also Like:

Sakina Itoo Slams SMHS Shutdown After Doctor Assault, Announces Probe

Kashmir Mother Donates Kidney to Save Son, Wins Hearts Across the Valley

Shocking “Snowfall” in Saudi Arabia? Viral Abha Videos Exposed — Here’s What Really Fell from the Sky!

Jammu / Kashmir / News

Mehbooba Mufti Demands Time-Bound Probe into Tribal Youth’s Killing in Alleged Police Encounter in Jammu

by
mehboba mufti

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister and PDP President, Mehbooba Mufti on Friday demanded a time-bound probe into the killing of a youth in alleged police firing in Jammu.

“Mohammad Parvez a tribal youth was killed by the police at Surat Chak, Police Station in Satwari yesterday. He’s now been labelled as a drug dealer but even that may be the case we still live in a democratic country where justice is served through rule of law as opposed to khap panchayats or kangaroo courts,” Mehbooba wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

“Sincerely hope the DG takes cognisance of this shocking incident by ordering a time bound impartial probe. We must not descend or condone a culture of extra judicial encounters because that’s precisely what alienates people,” she added.

Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

You Might Also Like:

Kashmir Mother Donates Kidney to Save Son, Wins Hearts Across the Valley

Landslide Kills Two in Reasi as Relentless Rains Trigger Floods, Highway Blockades Across Jammu

Tarun Chugh Slams Farooq Abdullah for ‘ISI-Backed Politics’, Questions Silence on Kashmiri Pandit Exodus

Jammu

Outrage in Jammu as Gujjar Youth Killed in Alleged Police Encounter

by
Gujjar Youth

A young man from the Gujjar community was killed in an alleged police encounter in Flying Mandal, Jammu, on July 24, 2025, prompting widespread protests and accusations of extrajudicial killing. The police claim the deceased was involved in drug-related activities, but his family and community vehemently deny these allegations, asserting that he had no criminal record and labeling the incident as a deliberate murder.
According to police reports, the encounter occurred during a late-night operation targeting suspected drug peddlers in the area. Authorities state that the man, whose identity has not been officially disclosed, was killed in crossfire after police pursued suspects in Flying Mandal. A senior police official claimed, “The individual was linked to drug peddling, and the operation was based on credible intelligence. When confronted, he resisted, leading to an exchange of fire.”
However, the family of the deceased, supported by local residents and community leaders, disputes this narrative. They allege that the man, a resident of the area, was an innocent civilian with no history of criminal activity. “He was never involved in drug peddling. There isn’t a single FIR against him,” a family member told local media, visibly distraught. They claim he was deliberately targeted and killed without provocation, describing the encounter as a “cold-blooded murder.”
On July 24, 2025, family members and supporters gathered outside the Government Medical College (GMC) in Jammu, staging a protest to demand justice. Demonstrators blocked roads, chanting slogans against the police and calling for an independent judicial inquiry. “This is a systemic assault on marginalized communities like ours,” said a protester, echoing sentiments shared on social media platforms. Posts on X from July 24-25, 2025, reflect growing outrage, with users condemning the incident as a “fake encounter” and urging authorities, including the Lieutenant Governor’s office and local leaders, to investigate.
Community leaders have also raised concerns about the broader implications of such incidents. “The Gujjar community is often unfairly targeted. This is not just a killing; it’s an attack on our dignity,” said a prominent member of the community, who requested anonymity for safety reasons. They argue that even if drug-related allegations were true, the individual deserved due process, not summary execution.
The incident has drawn attention from political figures, with some calling for accountability. “If someone is suspected of a crime, they should face trial, not a bullet,” tweeted a local leader on July 24, 2025, amplifying calls for transparency. The Jammu and Kashmir Police have not yet released a detailed statement, but sources indicate an internal review may be underway.

Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

You Might Also Like:

Kashmir Mother Donates Kidney to Save Son, Wins Hearts Across the Valley

Landslide Kills Two in Reasi as Relentless Rains Trigger Floods, Highway Blockades Across Jammu

Tarun Chugh Slams Farooq Abdullah for ‘ISI-Backed Politics’, Questions Silence on Kashmiri Pandit Exodus

Jammu / Kashmir / Kashmir services / News

Minister Javed Rana Reviews Water Supply Projects in Jammu, Urges Timely Completion of Jal Jeevan Mission Schemes

by
Minister Javed Rana

Jammu, July 23 — Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmed Rana, today chaired a high-level meeting to review the water supply management and infrastructure development across Jammu Province. The meeting focused on progress of ongoing schemes, particularly under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM), and on strategies to ensure sustainable and safe water for all households.

The meeting was attended by key officials including Chief Engineer PHE Jammu, Vikas Sharma, and Superintending Engineers Ajay Sharma and Sunil Gandotra, among others.

During the detailed discussion, Minister Rana underscored the urgent need for early completion of ongoing water supply projects, especially JJM schemes, to ensure the government meets its goal of providing functional tap connections to every rural household.

“It is imperative to respond quickly and efficiently to any disruptions in the water supply network. Our primary responsibility is to ensure every household receives safe and potable water, without delay,” Rana emphasized.

The meeting also deliberated on the regular cleaning and maintenance of water storage tanks—a crucial step in safeguarding water quality and preventing contamination.

Minister Rana instructed concerned officials to ensure proper functioning of filtration plants, which are essential for delivering clean and safe drinking water to communities.

Focus on Sustainability and Community Needs

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to formulating an effective water recharge strategy aimed at replenishing local water sources and ensuring long-term sustainability. The strategy includes measures for rainwater harvesting and restoring natural aquifers.

The Minister also drew attention to the repair of defunct handpumps, which continue to serve as a vital water source in many remote and rural areas. He called for urgent repairs to restore their functionality and ease the burden on piped water systems.

“The Government under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is committed to effective and timely implementation of these critical water initiatives,” Rana reaffirmed.

The meeting concluded with clear directives to all departments to speed up implementation, maintain quality control, and engage with local communities for better execution of water conservation and distribution strategies.

With the monsoon season underway, officials have been urged to remain vigilant and ensure uninterrupted water supply across both urban and rural pockets of Jammu.

Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

You Might Also Like:

CM Omar Abdullah Says Congress Didn’t Seek Support on J&K Statehood

CM Omar Abdullah Attends NEP 2025 Conference at SKICC, Reaffirms Commitment to Inclusive

Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar Resigns Citing Health Reasons, Sparks Political Shock