Kashmiri MBBS Student Saba Rasool Dies in Iran; Family Seeks Urgent Repatriation, Alleging Medical Negligence

Saba Rasool

Saba Rasool, a fourth-year medical student from Safakadal, Srinagar, who was pursuing her MBBS at Urmia University of Medical Sciences in Iran, passed away following health complications.

Family sources confirmed to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that Saba had complained of pain two days ago and was admitted to a hospital there.

They said that after battling for her life, she died last night at around 3:00 am.

Meanwhile, the family has also appealed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India, for the urgent repatriation of her body to Kashmir for last rites.

Saba’s family and neighbors in Srinagar have expressed deep grief at her untimely demise. They are urging the authorities to expedite the repatriation process so that she can be laid to rest in her hometown according to local customs.

Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association has written to Union External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar, seeking his urgent humanitarian intervention for the swift repatriation of the mortal remains of Sabha Rasool, a 27-year-old MBBS student from Safakadal, Srinagar.

The Association has also urged the Ministry to take up the matter with Iranian authorities to initiate a thorough probe into allegations of gross medical negligence.

In a letter to External Affairs Minister, National Convenor of Association Nasir Khuehami said that Sabha Rasool, a fourth-year MBBS student at Urmia University of Medical Sciences, passed away following a sudden deterioration in her health, leaving her family, friends, and community in deep shock and inconsolable grief. “Her friends and batchmates, who were present during her illness and at the hospital, have alleged that her death may have been the result of gross medical negligence,” the letter to Dr. Jaishankar reads.

According to the account provided by her friends, Saba had been experiencing nausea and vomiting for several days. They claimed it took three hours for a regular ambulance to arrive, and upon reaching the hospital, she was allegedly made to wait for two hours before being allotted a bed in the Emergency Ward (Urjanas). “Despite her critical condition, she was reportedly kept only on normal saline for two days and given painkillers only when she complained of pain. Friends allege that her vitals were not checked for an entire day and there was no regular monitoring,” the letter stated.

The Association said that after repeated requests to transfer her to the GI Ward, she was moved from the Emergency Ward to a corridor outside the GI Ward. Later, she was shifted to the International Patient Department (IPD), where her condition reportedly deteriorated further. “Friends say she developed seizures, her vitals became unstable, and she experienced tachycardia. She was then moved to the ICU. On the final day, she stopped speaking and kept her eyes closed,” it added.

Quoting one of her friends, the Association said; “Till the time she was stable, we were provided with all her reports. However, after her condition worsened, no medical reports have been shared with us.”

Doctors cited the cause of death as fulminant hepatic failure (acute liver failure) along with pulmonary complications. However, her friends and fellow students alleged that until her death, the doctors were unable to diagnose her exact illness.

He said that Family needs immediate assistance in bringing the young students’ mortal remains back for thr last rites at her ancestral area. He urged the External Affairs Minister to take up the matter with the concerned authorities in Iran to ensure an impartial and transparent investigation, and to press for strict action against the hospital if negligence is confirmed. “At the same time, the bereaved family’s immediate and desperate priority is to bring the mortal remains home and perform her last rites in her homeland in accordance with our cultural and religious traditions,” it said.

Calling it “a desperate plea from a devastated family seeking both justice and the opportunity to see their daughter one last time,” the Association’s Iran Unit Coordinator Faizan Aishna said that Dr. Jaishankar’s timely intervention “will not only bring solace to their shattered hearts but also reaffirm India’s commitment to the dignity and protection of its citizens abroad.”

He urged External Affairs Minister to intervene urgently to liaise with Iranian authorities and ensure that all humanitarian and administrative procedures are completed at the earliest, so that Sabha Rasool’s family can receive her mortal remains without unnecessary delay and accord her the dignified farewell she deserves—(KNO)

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Kashmiri MBBS Student Saba Rasool Dies in Iran; Family Seeks Urgent Repatriation, Alleging Medical Negligence

Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) Hosts National Symposia on Indian Philosophers Day

The Department of Philosophy, Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), Kashmir, organized two national symposia this week to commemorate Indian Philosophers Day and International Day of Yoga from July 22 to 23. The symposia, based on the twin themes “Indian Philosophy (Bhāratīya Darśana)” and “Yoga for Health, Happiness and Harmony,” were conducted with the support of the Indian Council of Philosophical Research (ICPR).

The events featured presentations by academic philosophers such as Prof. Pradeep Gokhale (ICPR National Fellow), Prof. Ajay Verma (Jawaharlal Nehru University), Prof. Harish Navale (Savitribai Phule Pune University), Dr. Pankaj Srivastava (Panjab University), Dr. Richa Shukla (IIT Bhubaneswar), and Dr. Ambuj Sharma (PGGC Girls Chandigarh). The presentations highlighted the rich traditions of Indian philosophy and their role, relevance, and significance in promoting the Indian dṛṣṭi, both at a conceptual level in areas such as metaphysics and epistemology, and at a practical level through the perspective of Yogic traditions.

The symposia witnessed active participation from students, scholars, faculty members and university officials including Prof. A.H. Moon, Dean Academic Affairs, IUST; Dr. Rumaan Bashir, Controller of Examinations, IUST; and Dr. Afroz Ahmad Bisati, Dean, School of Humanities and Social Sciences. The symposia were coordinated by Dr. Muzaffar Ali Malla, Head, Department of Philosophy.

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Sakina Itoo Flags Off Buses for Five Kashmir Colleges to Boost Student Access to Education

sakeena itoo

Minister for Health & Medical Education, Social Welfare and Higher Education, Sakina Itoo, today dedicated buses to five Government Degree Colleges (GDCs) in Kashmir, aiming to strengthen access to education for the students from remote areas.

The colleges that received the buses included GDCs Kupwara, Sopore, Tangmarg, DH Pora and Tulail. The flagging off ceremony was held at Abdul Ahad Azad Memorial College, Bemina.

Advisor to Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, MLA Tangmarg Pirzada Farooq Ahmad Shah and MLA Sopore Irshad Rasool Kar were present on the occasion.

Speaking at the event, the Minister emphasized the importance of transport facilities in ensuring accessible and inclusive education. “This initiative is aimed at empowering the students, particularly those from far-flung areas, by facilitating their daily commute to the colleges, asserted the Minister”.

She added that a similar initiative had recently been undertaken in the Jammu division, where five colleges were also provided buses.

Highlighting government’s initiatives towards improving the education sector, the Minister said, “We are focused on raising the standards of education and ensuring that students at government institutions have access to all necessary facilities, including reliable transport.”

She further stated that efforts are underway to extend such support to more colleges across Jammu and Kashmir.

During the function, the Minister interacted with the Principals, faculty members, NCC cadets and students. She appreciated the support of J&K Bank for providing the buses under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative, describing the gesture as a significant contribution towards students’ educational journey.

Present on the occasion were the MD Motor Garage, Divisional and CSR Heads of J&K Bank, Director Finance Higher Education, Director Colleges, Principals of various colleges and other senior officials

J&K Govt Announces Early Summer Vacation for Schools in Kashmir from June 23 Amid Severe Heatwave

Summer Vacation

Amid soaring temperatures, Jammu and Kashmir Education Minister, Sakina Itoo Saturday said that the government has decided to announce early-summer vacation for all private and government schools in Kashmir division from June-23.

Speaking exclusively with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Itoo said, “The weather conditions in Kashmir region are unbearable for the students and in view of the severe heatwave, we have decided to announce early-summer vacation for schools in Kashmir division from June-23.”

The minister further said that the government will review the weather conditions after the culmination of summer vacations and will take the call of extension accordingly.

Itoo further said that earlier the department had proposed to declare the summer vacations from July-01 to July-10. “However, keeping in view the severe heatwave, we have decided to announce early summer vacation of 15 days with effect from June-23.”

Earlier the minister had ordered change in school timing saying, “From Saturday, the school timing in Srinagar municipality limits areas will be from 8Am to 1Pm and in case of schools outside the Srinagar municipality limits, the schools shall function from 8:30 Am to 1:30 Pm.”—(KNO)

Faizan Shakeel Badhana Becomes First Gujjar from North Kashmir to Crack IIT-JEE Advanced in First Attempt

Faizan Shakeel Badhana

Faizan Shakeel Badhana, a young student from the remote village of Nachayan in Karnah, Kupwara, has become the first from the Gujjar community in north Kashmir to crack the IIT-JEE Advanced, one of India’s toughest engineering entrance exams in his very first attempt.
Hailing from an area where basic educational infrastructure remains a challenge, Faizan’s journey is proof of resilience, self-belief, and determination. “If I can do it, anyone can,” he told Rising Kashmir with quiet pride.
Faizan received his primary education in Nachayan before moving to Srinagar in 8th grade. He completed his 10th grade at New Convent School, and went on to pursue his higher secondary education at SP Secondary School. It was during his 12th grade, after joining RISE Institute in Srinagar for coaching, that he truly began to understand the path to competitive exams like IIT-JEE.
“Until class 10, we had very little idea of what engineering or JEE even meant,” Faizan recalls. “It was only after speaking with a cousin, who was studying Computer Science Engineering, that I became interested in the field.”
Despite the lack of coaching centres or educational resources in his village, Faizan’s drive pushed him forward. He had earlier qualified the NDA written exam, scoring 97 percentile, and was awaiting the viva at the time. He also cleared both stages of a Mathematics Olympiad, as well as Stage 1 and Stage 2 of the NDE (National Defence Examination), eventually qualifying for the GED (General Engineering Diploma entrance).
“I was the first student from my class to qualify for the GED,” he said. “We didn’t know what these exams were or what to do after qualifying them. Exposure is key.”
Faizan credits his success not just to hard work, but to the timely mentorship he received. “When I joined RISE, everything changed. The teachers, especially Mr. Azaan, guided me at every step. I didn’t even know how to study before that,” he admits.
He highlighted the role of proper direction in competitive exam preparation. “Even if someone works hard, without the right guidance, they might fall behind. It’s crucial to have someone to show the way.”

J&K Schools to Change Timings from Monday Due to Heatwave, Says Education Minister Sakina Itoo

Students of Kashmir

Minister of Education, Sakina Itoo Thursday said that the school timing will he changed from coming Monday in view of heat wave across Jammu and Kashmir.

According to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), Itoo said, “I have already instructed the School Education Department to change the school timing in view of heat wave.”

“I have been informed by the parent that their wards feel dizzy in the morning assembly,” she said.

Itoo further said, “From Monday, the school timing will be changed and I have directed the concerned team that morning assembly shall not be conducted in the open field.”

“As far as summer vacations are concerned, we will have to wait for the appropriate timing for it,” she said—(KNO)

Kashmiri Student Leader Umar Masoodi Invited to European Youth Event 2025

Umar Masoodi

Umar Masoodi, a Kashmiri student leader and the State Spokesperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA), has been invited by the European Union to participate in the prestigious European Youth Event (EYE2025), scheduled for June 13-14, 2025, in Strasbourg, France.

Masoodi, a law student at the University of Kashmir, has been actively involved in JKSA for the past three years, serving the organization in various capacities and steadily rising through the ranks. His selection for this distinguished program reflects his contributions to student leadership, youth advocacy, and international discourse.

Earlier, in 2024, Masoodi was selected for the prestigious Lucerne Academy Program in Switzerland, where he successfully attended a three-week program at the University of Lucerne.

The official opening ceremony of EYE2025 will be attended by high representatives of the European Parliament and the City of Strasbourg. As part of the program, Masoodi will have the opportunity to participate in discussions, engage with Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), and exchange views with experts, activists, and decision-makers on pressing global issues.

EYE2025 is being organized by the European Union and is held every two years, bringing together young leaders from across Europe and beyond. The event provides an unparalleled platform for young changemakers to interact with policymakers, legislators, and thought leaders, fostering dialogue on democracy, human rights, innovation, climate action, and other critical challenges shaping the world today.

His participation is expected to open new avenues for cross-cultural dialogue and collaborative efforts in addressing challenges faced by youth worldwide.

The J&K Students Association has congratulated Umar Masoodi on his selection for this prestigious program, highlighting it as a moment of pride and honor. His journey serves as a source of inspiration for all those who dream of a better future. Masoodi has not only brought laurels to his family but also to his alma mater. The association hopes that the student fraternity will follow the path of this meritorious individual.

The association said that, “Kashmiri students are proving their mettle and excelling in every field. Masoodi’s achievement will inspire the students of J&K to aim for the top institutions and programs in the world. We are delighted to learn that he has been selected for this prestigious program. It is a great achievement for a young student, and we congratulate him on achieving such a stupendous and incredible feat. We are confident that he will make the most of this opportunity and continue to inspire others with his accomplishments.”

NIT Srinagar, NIELIT Launch Drone Technology Course and DGCA-Certified Training Center

NIELIT Launch Drone

The National Institute of Technology (NIT) Srinagar and NIELIT Srinagar signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on February 22, 2024, to launch a six-month certificate course in drone technology and a DGCA-certified drone training center.

The signing ceremony took place in Srinagar with Ms. Tulika Pandey, Group Coordinator and Scientist-G of the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), and Dr. M.M. Tripathi, Director General of NIELIT and Vice Chancellor of NIELIT Deemed-to-be University, in attendance.

The MoU was signed in presence of representatives from both institutions. NIT Srinagar was represented by Prof. Atikur Rehman (Registrar), Prof. Sheikh Nazir Ahmed (Mechanical Engineering), Dr. Dinesh Kumar Rajendran (Incharge Drone Lab-Mechanical Engineering), and Mr. Mohammad Hazik (Assistant Registrar, Director’s Office | Legal).

NIELIT Srinagar was represented by Mr Ahsaq Hussain Dar, Director Incharge of NIELIT J&K, and Dr. Ummer Iqbal, Scientist-D.

The partnership will establish a six-month certification program in drone technology and a joint DGCA-certified drone pilot training center. This center will provide industry-standard training compliant with DGCA guidelines, ensuring comprehensive and recognized certification for aspiring drone pilots.

A collaborative six-month certificate course on UAV/Drone technology will also be launched under MeitY’s national level initiative “Capacity Building for Human Resource Development in Unmanned Aircraft Systems(Drone & Related Technology)” titled SwaYaan . SwaYaan aims to develop and strengthen India’s UAS/Drone ecosystem.

The six-month certificate course will focus on artificial intelligence and security in drone technology, offering an integrated curriculum designed to equip participants with advanced skills in these critical areas.

The program will combine theoretical knowledge and practical training to bridge the gap between academia and industry, enhancing the employability of students in the region.

Institute’s Registrar Prof. Atikur Rehman said that the Department of Mechanical Engineering at NIT Srinagar will offer the six-month certification course for people across the globe to enroll and that electives will be available to B.Tech students from any discipline as an open elective.

“The course’s industrial component will be integrated with student internships, further enhancing job opportunities for local youth. The future is with drones, so it is our responsibility to engage the youth with this leading technology,” he said.

Prof. Rehman said that this partnership with NIT Srinagar marks a significant step in our commitment to providing students with cutting-edge skills and preparing them for the future of technology.

The drone industry is rapidly evolving, and we are proud to offer this comprehensive program, including DGCA certification, to empower our students and contribute to the growth of this vital sector, he said.

Meanwhile Director General of NIELIT Dr. M.M. Tripathi emphasized that this initiative sets a new benchmark in drone training and that the collaboration with NIT Srinagar will empower the next generation of drone professionals to meet rigorous industry standards.

“We believe this initiative will not only enhance their employability but also position them as leaders in the field of unmanned aerial systems,” he added.

Meanwhile Ms. Tulika Pandey, Scientist-G at MeitY, praised the collaboration between two Institutions.

She highlighted its potential to not only provide advanced training in drone technology but also pave the way for technological growth and support unity in the region.

Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) Advises Kashmiri Students to Stay Cautious Ahead of India-Pakistan Cricket Matches

Jammu and Kashmir Students Association

Ahead of the much-anticipated India-Pakistan clash in the ICC Champions Trophy on February 23rd (today), the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) has issued an advisory urging Kashmiri students across the country to take the game in its right spirit and refrain from making social media posts that could land them in trouble.

The Jammu and Kashmir Students Association National Convenor Nasir Khuehami emphasized that students should treat the match as just another sporting event and avoid any actions that might lead to unnecessary complications. “We have urged Kashmiri students studying across the country to stay focused on their education and career, which is the primary reason they have traveled far from their home state of Jammu and Kashmir,” he stated.

The association also reminded students of the immense sacrifices their families have made—fathers who have worked tirelessly, brothers who have taken loans, sisters who have sold jewelry, and mothers who pray relentlessly for their well-being.

He asserted that, Due to past India-Pakistan cricket matches, dozens of students have been detained, arrested, summoned, or booked for their social media activity or involvement in heated debates. Such incidents have led to serious academic and legal consequences, impacting their education and future prospects.

Khuehami further stressed that students must see sports as a game and not let emotions dictate their actions. “We strongly advise students to stay away from social media discussions, debates, or any form of online engagement that could escalate into controversy or indiscipline at their institutions. They should enjoy the game with a true sportsman spirit and avoid engaging in unnecessary conflicts,” Association urged.

He also highlighted the political connotations and deep emotions attached to an India-Pakistan match, cautioning students to remain vigilant. “Students must understand that by openly cheering for any particular team, they may find themselves in a vulnerable position. It is crucial for them to exercise caution and prioritize their safety on campuses and in their accommodations, keeping in mind the well-being of their families back home,” he advised.

Khuehami reiterated that sports should promote unity, peace, and camaraderie rather than division and hostility. “Games and sports extend beyond mere entertainment; they teach us about brotherhood, discipline, and harmony. Let this match be a celebration of sportsmanship, not a cause for discord,”he added.

J&K Education Department Bans School Participation in Political Programmes and Rallies, Warns of Strict Action

Education Department

The J&K School Education Department has issued a circular prohibiting school authorities’ from directing students and staff to participate in political programmes or rallies.

The directive comes amid reports of alleged directives to send students and teachers to a Tiranga Rally organized by the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP) in Doda district of Jammu & Kashmir.

“It is enjoined upon all the officers including Chief Education Officers, Zonal Education Officers and Heads of Institutions of all the schools under School Education Department, not to grant any permission or give any direction to students or staff (including all categories of teachers) to participate in any political programme, rally etc. organized by any political party/organization,” the circular issued reads.

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“Further, all the Chief Education Officers shall strictly monitor that any directions from any district authority should not be in contravention to the circular instructions and in case of any such deviation, the Chief Education Officer concerned shall immediately bring the same into the notice of respective Director School Education for further instructions,” it also reads.

The authorities directed the respective Directors of School Education Department to ensure strict compliance of circular instructions and violation of same shall be viewed seriously and shall invite strict action under law.