Farooq Abdullah Expresses Grief Over Manmohan Singh’s Death, Remembers His Contributions to India

Farooq Abdullah

National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah on Friday expressed grief on former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s demise, saying that there are very few leaders like these in the world.

Speaking to ANI, National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah said, “I was a minister in his Cabinet, it is during his time that renewal energy was recognized. I hope the work done by him can be taken forward. If there was anyone who took steps to rehabilitate our Kashmiri pandits in Kashmir, it was Dr Manmohan Singh. Only those who work are criticised. It will be very difficult for the entire country to find such a leader; there are few leaders like him in the world.”

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s cousin brother Amarjit Singh Kohli also expressed his deepest condolences saying he used to inspire everyone to study.

Speaking to ANI, Amarjit Singh Kohli said, “He was our uncle’s son. He used to visit us since childhood, he loved us a lot and blessed us. He used to inspire everyone to study. He lived his whole life in simplicity and there was nothing showy in his life.”

Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid his last respects to former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at his residence in Delhi.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Health Minister and BJP National President JP Nadda also paid their last respects to Manmohan Singh.

Congress leaders, including KC Venugopal, were also present at the former PM’s residence.

Manmohan Singh passed away at AIIMS, Delhi, on Thursday evening at the age of 92 due to age-related medical conditions. He had a sudden loss of consciousness at home after which he was rushed to the AIIMS Delhi.

Condolences have poured in from around the globe in response to Singh’s demise. Leaders from neighbouring countries, including the United States, Maldives, and Afghanistan, expressed their deep grief over his passing, highlighting his contributions and the warm relationships he fostered with their nations.

Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s body will be displayed at the All India Congress Committee (AICC) headquarters in New Delhi for public viewing. His last rites are scheduled for Saturday, according to Congress sources.

Serving as the finance minister of India in PV Narasimha Rao’s government, Singh has been given credit for economic liberalisation in the country in 1991. The reforms made the Indian economy more accessible to foreign investors, which increased FDI and reduced government control. It greatly contributed to the country’s economic growth. (ANI)

Fire Breaks out in Central Kashmir’s Sofi Mohalla Wussan Ganderbal

Sofi Mohalla Wussan

A massive fire broke out in residential houses at Wussan area of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal on Friday afternoon.An official said that a fire broke out in two residential houses at Wussan today.

“The fire broke out from the house of Gh Rasool son of Gh Hassan Rather resident from Sofi Mohalla Wussan, an official said.

He said that fire tenders have reached the spot to douse the flames—(KNO)

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Expresses Condolences on the Demise of Dr. Manmohan Singh

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq

In a heartfelt message, Mirwaiz Mohammad Umar Farooq, the spiritual and political leader of Kashmir, expressed his deep sorrow at the passing of Dr. Manmohan Singh, the former Prime Minister of India. Dr. Singh, a renowned economist and statesman, passed away recently, and his death has left the nation in mourning. Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, who had interacted with the former Prime Minister both during his tenure and in previous years, paid tribute to Dr. Singh’s commitment to peace, dialogue, and reconciliation, especially concerning the Kashmir issue.

Mirwaiz’s heartfelt condolences were shared on his social media platform, where he recalled the numerous occasions on which he had met with Dr. Singh. The Mirwaiz emphasized Dr. Singh’s unwavering dedication to fostering dialogue, particularly on the Kashmir issue, and his belief in the importance of peace and people-to-people contact across borders. According to Mirwaiz, Dr. Singh’s approach was always one of sincerity and open-mindedness.

A Strong Advocate for Dialogue

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq noted that Dr. Singh’s leadership was marked by a sincere desire to engage in meaningful dialogue, particularly regarding Kashmir. The former Prime Minister, according to Mirwaiz, believed in the power of communication and cooperation as essential tools for conflict resolution. He recalled how Dr. Singh had been open to conversations with the Hurriyat Conference and had always demonstrated an earnest interest in understanding the concerns of the people of Kashmir.

The Mirwaiz mentioned that Dr. Singh was a strong advocate for open borders and lasting peace with neighboring countries, particularly Pakistan. His vision for a peaceful South Asia was rooted in the belief that dialogue, diplomacy, and trust-building were fundamental to achieving stability and peace in the region. These efforts to promote peace and harmony were evident in his policies during his tenure as Prime Minister.

Apni Party President Altaf Bukhari Urges J&K Authorities to Address Harassment of Kashmiri Vendors in Himachal Pradesh

Altaf Bukhari

Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari, on Thursday, expressed his deep concern over reports suggesting that Kashmir shawl vendors are continuously facing harassment and threats from local miscreants in some parts of Himachal. He urged the J&K authorities to take up this issue with the authorities in Himachal Pradesh to ensure the safety of Kashmiri vendors and their businesses there.


Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari wrote on his X handle: “I have been informed that Kashmiri shawl vendors and street hawkers in Himachal Pradesh are continuously facing harassment and threats from some local miscreants. They are being asked to leave the place and return home.Even their landlords are being pressured to evict their Kashmiri tenants.”


He further said, “It is the responsibility of the authorities in Jammu and Kashmir to take up this issue with their counterparts in Himachal to ensure the safety of Kashmiri vendors there.”


“These are poor people earning their livelihood. Some of them have been going there for the past two to three decades and have established a customer network. Their livelihood must be protected,” Mr Bukhari added.(KNS).

Jaffer Hussain Butt and Liyaqat Ali Detained Under PSA for Anti-National Activities in Kishtwar and Kathua Jammu

Anti-National Activities

 Police on Thursday said that in a decisive crackdown on anti-national activities, two individuals have been booked under the Public Safety Act (PSA) for their involvement in subversive activities, demonstrating a firm commitment to maintaining peace and security in the Jammu region.

In a handout to GNS, the police said that Police in Kishtwar booked Jaffer Hussain Butt, son of Mohd Ashraf Butt, a resident of Hunjala, Tehsil and District Kishtwar, under the Public Safety Act (PSA). Jaffer, a known Over Ground Worker (OGW), has been actively aiding banned organizations in their unlawful activities. His actions posed a grave threat to the stability and security of the region.

According to police spokesman, following thorough investigations and procedural diligence, Jaffer was detained under PSA and subsequently lodged in District Jail Kathua. The move aims to safeguard the youth of Kishtwar from being influenced by such individuals and to ensure law and order in the district.

Meanwhile the District Police in Kathua detained Liyaqat Ali, son of Abdul Majid, a resident of Lohai Malhar, Tehsil Malhar, District Kathua, under the Public Safety Act (PSA). The District Magistrate’s office, Kathua, issued the detention order (OB No. PSA/132) on December 10, 2024, and Liyaqat was lodged in Central Jail Kot Bhalwal, Jammu, on December 14, 2024.

Liyaqat has a long history of anti-national activities. His name first surfaced in 2003, when he was charged under FIR No. 148/2003 at Police Station Billawar for serious offenses, including attempt to murder (IPC 307) and waging war against the Government of India (IPC 121 & 121-A). Over the years, he has faced several criminal charges, including cases of harassment, wrongful confinement, assault, and aiding terrorist elements in the region, he said.

FIRs registered against Liyaqat Ali include FIR No. 05/2021 at Police Station Malhar – Involved charges of harassment and trespass under IPC sections 452 and 509. FIR No. 15/2022 at Police Station Malhar – Included charges of assault, wrongful confinement, and provocation under IPC sections 341, 342, 323, and 504, he said.

Reports from intelligence agencies and police diaries further confirmed his role in providing logistical support and shelter to terrorist elements, making his detention under PSA a necessary step to prevent further harm, he said.

The Jammu Zone Police emphasized their unwavering commitment to eliminating anti-national activities and safeguarding public peace. ADGP Jammu said that “We are resolute in our approach to dealing with individuals involved in activities against the state. Those disrupting peace or attempting to lure youth into anti-national activities will face strict legal action, he said.

The public has been urged to cooperate with the police by reporting any suspicious activities, including anti-national elements, drug abuse, or other unlawful acts. The identity of informants will be strictly protected, reads the statement.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Envisions Transforming Jammu into a Premier Tourist Destination with New Amphitheater at Bagh-e-Bahu

CM Omar Abdullah inaugurates Amphitheater, Light & Sound at Bagh-e-Bahu

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, while inaugurating the open-air amphitheater at Bagh-e-Bahu this evening, expressed his vision of transforming Jammu into a tourist destination of distinction.

Highlighting Jammu’s potential, the Chief Minister emphasized the significance of leveraging the region’s prominent pilgrimage sites, particularly the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine, which draws over a crore visitors annually. “If we can encourage even 15% of these pilgrims to explore other attractions in Jammu, we could see an influx of 15 lakh tourists—a number comparable to Kashmir’s peak tourism years,” he remarked.

The event was attended by Minister Satish Sharma, DDC Jammu Bharat Bhushan, MLA Bahu Vikram Randhawa, Principal Secretary (Culture) Suresh Kumar Gupta, Secretary YS&S Sarmad Hafeez, Secretary Floriculture, Gardens & Parks Sheikh Fayaz, and DG Floriculture Jammu Jitender Singh.

Earlier, Secretary Floriculture presented a detailed welcome address, outlining the department’s initiatives to enhance the facilities at Bagh-e-Bahu.

Reflecting on the development of Bagh-e-Bahu, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah noted its evolution over the years.

“I have witnessed the transformation of Bagh-e-Bahu, from its modest beginnings to becoming a hub with water fountains, an aquarium, and a sound and light show. Today, it stands as an integral part of this amphitheater, which adds a new dimension to Jammu’s cultural and tourism landscape,” he remarked.

He urged the concerned departments to maximize the potential of the amphitheater, advocating for its use as a platform for various activities.

“This facility should serve as a venue for school events, providing students with an opportunity to hone their skills and showcase their talent. It’s vital to ensure that this amphitheater is not left underutilized.”The Chief Minister also reiterated the need for a concerted effort to give Jammu its unique identity in tourism.

He underscored ongoing projects, such as the long-pending initiative to create a lake in Jammu, which is now nearing completion.“Jammu will have its own lake—a milestone that will significantly boost tourism. Such projects are crucial to firmly establish Jammu on the tourism map,” he stated.

He further urged the departments to organize regular programs at the amphitheater.

“Programs like today’s wonderful presentation by the Cultural Academy should become a recurring feature. I hope to see a well-publicized calendar of events, involving private organizations and schools, especially those lacking facilities, to ensure vibrant and diverse participation.”

Acknowledging the limitations of seasonal use, the Chief Minister expressed optimism about utilizing the amphitheater for at least 4-5 months each year.

On a lighter note, he shared that his residence across the river offers him a direct view of the amphitheater’s activities.

“From my balcony, I can hear the soothing sounds of the river and occasionally enjoy the sound and light show. I look forward to hearing the vibrant buzz of activities from this amphitheater as a regular feature,” he added, urging the department to ensure continuous engagement and wide publicity.

Fire Breaks Out in Forest Near Gandoh Bhalessa Village in Doda, 15 FIRs Lodged

Forest Fire in Bhaderwah

A forest fire broke out in Bhalessa village, prompting the authorities to lodge 15 FIRs in Gandoh Police Station in Doda district on Tuesday. Men and machinery are working tirelessly to extinguish the raging flames, SDM Bhalessa said.

SDM Gandoh Bhalessa Arun Kumar Badyal said, “A devastating forest fire has broken out in Doda District’s Gandoh Bhalesa sub division, specifically in Compartment number 1 Dhadkie of Charalla Range and Compartment no 3 of Gill Kunan forest. The forest department and locals are working tirelessly to extinguish the flames.”

According to Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) Arun Kumar Badyal KAS, the fire has gutted crores worth of green gold, and 15 miscreants have been identified as responsible for igniting the fire.

The administration has lodged 15 FIRs in Police station Gandoh and urges the public to cooperate in identifying those responsible.

The SDM emphasized the importance of preserving the forest, stating that it is collective property and should not be destroyed. He requested the public to report any further incidents of forest fires and assured that the administration will take strict action against those responsible.

“This incident highlights the need for continued vigilance and cooperation in protecting our natural resources,” he added.

Earlier, a fire broke out in Gandoh Bhalessa village area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda on Sunday, said officials.

The region has witnessed several fire incidents in past couple of weeks. On Saturday as well fire broke out in the Dessa Forest Area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda.

No casualties have been reported. The fire brigade team reached the site and commenced extinguishing fire immediately after receiving word about the incident, said officials.

Assistant Director, Fire & Emergency Services Doda & Kishtwar, Amit Shogtra stated, “The fire broke out approximately 500 metres up in the forest from Dessa Road. A lot of such incidents have been happening lately… If you see the smallest spark, beat it in the initial stages or call Fire and Emergency… We have received more than 100 calls reporting fire…” (ANI)

Tragic End of Influencer Simran Singh: A Deep Dive into the Untold Story

RJ Simran

1. Simran Singh: The Heartbeat of Jammu

Simran Singh, a vibrant Instagram influencer and beloved radio jockey, was popularly known as “Jammu Ki Dhadkan” among her followers. With over six lakh fans on Instagram, her charm and lively persona made her an icon in Jammu and Kashmir. Simran’s magnetic presence was a blend of talent, authenticity, and a voice that resonated deeply with the people of her homeland.


2. The Shocking Discovery

On a sombre Wednesday evening, Simran’s lifeless body was found in her rented apartment in Sector 47, Gurugram. Police received an alert from Park Hospital around 10:30 pm, marking the beginning of an investigation that left many questions unanswered. No suicide note was discovered, leaving family, friends, and fans grappling with the mystery of her decision.


3. Personal Struggles Behind the Fame

While Simran appeared to lead a picture-perfect life online, her family revealed she had been dealing with personal issues for some time. The nature of these struggles remains undisclosed, but they were significant enough to drive her to this tragic end. This revelation underscores the hidden battles influencers often face, despite their glamorous public image.


4. The Family’s Reaction and Next Steps

Simran’s family, devastated by her loss, refrained from filing any complaints against individuals or circumstances surrounding her death. They submitted a written complaint to the authorities, which prompted a post-mortem examination on Thursday morning. The absence of a suicide note and the family’s silence have left room for speculation and unanswered questions.


5. Police Statements and Investigation

According to Assistant Sub-Inspector Pradeep Kumar from Sadar Police Station, no case has been registered following Simran’s death. The investigation, thus far, points towards a suicide driven by personal difficulties. The police have been respectful of the family’s wishes, ensuring the body was handed over promptly after the post-mortem examination.


6. Simran’s Last Social Media Post

Simran’s final Instagram post, shared on December 13, features a reel captioned, “Just a girl with endless giggles and her gown, taking over the beach.” This bittersweet memory showcases her vivacious personality, leaving fans with a poignant reminder of her joyous spirit. The contrast between her online persona and her internal struggles is a stark reminder of the complexities of mental health.


7. Condolences from Prominent Figures

Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC) chief Farooq Abdullah and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expressed their heartfelt condolences. In a joint statement, they praised Simran’s contribution to the cultural fabric of Jammu and Kashmir, emphasizing that her voice and charm embodied the region’s spirit. Their words echo the collective grief of a community mourning the loss of one of its brightest stars.


8. The Dark Side of Influencer Life

Simran’s tragedy brings to light the pressures faced by social media influencers. The pursuit of perfection and constant scrutiny can lead to immense stress. For many influencers, the disparity between their public image and private struggles becomes an overwhelming burden. Simran’s death serves as a grim reminder of the need for mental health awareness and support in this digital age.


9. Remembering Simran Singh’s Legacy

Simran’s contributions as an RJ and influencer have left an indelible mark. Her fans will remember her as a trailblazer who brought the spirit of Jammu to the forefront. Her voice, once a beacon of hope and happiness, will continue to inspire those who knew her.


10. The Call for Mental Health Advocacy

Simran’s untimely death underscores the urgent need for open conversations about mental health. It’s crucial to create a supportive environment where individuals can seek help without fear of stigma. Let her story be a catalyst for change, encouraging people to prioritise mental well-being over societal expectations.


Conclusion Simran Singh’s life and death highlight the fragility of the human spirit. Her story is a poignant reminder that behind every smile may lie untold struggles. As we mourn her loss, let us also commit to fostering a culture of empathy and support, ensuring no voice goes unheard.

Agha Syed Ruhullah Mehdi Chairs District Development Coordination & Monitoring Committee (DISHA) Meeting, Reviews Developmental Schemes and Projects in Srinagar

Agha Syed Ruhullah Mehdi

Member Parliament, Srinagar Lok Sabha Constituency, Agha Syed Ruhullah Mehdi today chaired District Development Coordination & Monitoring Committee (DISHA) meeting of District Srinagar at Tourist Reception Centre, here.Chairperson, District Development Council Srinagar, Malik Aftab Ahmad and Member Legislative Assembly, Tanveer Sadiq were present in the meeting.

Besides, Chief Executive Officer SSCL/ Commissioner SMC, Dr Owais Ahmad; Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Dr Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat; ADDC, Srinagar, ADC Srinagar, VC LCMA and Officers & Engineers of all line Departments attended the meeting.

At the outset, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar gave a detailed presentation to give an overview of Central Sponsored Schemes and State Sponsored Schemes implemented by the District Administration Srinagar and the concerned Departments.

The DC shared information about the District profile & demography besides various beneficiary oriented schemes & flagship programmes of different Departments including Rural Development, Rural water Supply, Srinagar Municipal Corporation, Power Development Department (KPDCL), Revenue, Education, Health, FCS&CA, Social Welfare & ICDS, Agriculture/Horticulture, Industries & Commerce, National Informatics Centre, Geology & Mining, Employment Generation Schemes, Skill Oriented Programmes, etc.

The DC also apprised the chair regarding the objectives of the scheme and beneficiary targets achieved by the administration through effective & extensive implementation of said schemes.

CEO, SSCL also presented a brief about the successful execution of projects under Srinagar Smart City Limited regarding beautification of the City.

He briefed the chair regarding Development, Rejuvenation & Streamlining of City roads, walkways, cycle tracks, River Front Development, Development of Central Business District Area, Heritage Conservation & Renovation, LakeFront Development, Intelligent Traffic Management System, ICCC, Smart Bus Service, steps taken for Green & Resilient Srinagar and other IT driven initiatives. He informed that the ongoing projects of SSCL shall be completed by March 2025.

Addressing the DISHA meeting, Agha Syed Ruhullah Mehdi commended District Administration and SSCL for exemplary achievements in implementation of beneficiary schemes and execution of developmental projects in the City.

He asked the Deputy Commissioner to set higher targets for beneficiary oriented schemes to cover maximum citizens besides exhorted for mass awareness regarding welfare, beneficiary and employment schemes through mainstream media, social and organization of programmes at Halqa levels.

Regarding the supply of quality drinking water to households, the MP directed the Deputy Commissioner to address the issue of contamination of water which is affecting the quality and colour of drinking water & spreading diseases.

Responding to the concern, DC vouched that all filtration plants supply pure water which is ensured by frequent lab tests at plants. He said that issues of leakages in pipes will be addressed promptly.

On the occasion, MP Mehdi emphasized on restoration of Natural Springs which are in dilapidated condition.To address one of the major concerns of the City of Dog Menace, Mehdi asked SMC to take urgent measures to address the issue at the earliest.

On the occasion, Commissioner SMC briefed the chair regarding the ongoing measures to control the population of canines in the City including infrastructural development for sterilization and Rehabilitation.

Meanwhile, MP urged SMC for operationalization of nonfunctional toilet blocks particularly at Batamaloo.He also enjoined DC and CEO SSCL for framing DPRs for development of Downtown areas and Dal Lake interiors.

MSME Sponsored Skill Development Training on ‘Establishment of Profitable Dairy Farms’ at MLRI, SKUAST-K

Skill Development Training

In all 25 participants are enrolled in the training programme who would be trained for proper selection of milch animal, balanced feeding of animals, animal shed designing, round the year fodder production, reproductive management and disease management of animals.

On the inaugural day, Professor Incharge MLRI, Prof. Syed Ansar Ul Haq welcomed the participants and hailed the organisers for choosing the MLRI as the training venue where the participants would receive practical demonstration on various operations of dairy farming besides the thoeritical lectures by the top veterinary and agri scientists.

Dr Rayees Ahmad Ganai, Veterinary Officer, Animal Husbandry Department lectured about the various Government schemes for the establishment of dairy farms in Kashmir Division while as Dr Gowher Gull, Senior Scientist (Animal Nutrition) spoke on the importance of balanced feeding of dairy animals for maximising profits

Later Dr Parvaiz Ahmed Reshi, Senior Scientist (Animal Nutrition) and coordinator of the training thanked the participants, experts, the Animal Husbandry department, sponsoring agency MSME for the support.

He appealed the aspiring dairy entrepreneurs to take full advantage of such skill development programmes being organised by SKUAST-K.

A seven days MSME sponsored Skill development training programme on ‘Establishment of Profitable Dairy Farms’ was started at the Mountain Livestock Research Institute-Manasbal (MLRI), SKUAST-K.

In all 25 participants are enrolled in the training programme who would be trained for proper selection of milch animal, balanced feeding of animals, animal shed designing, round the year fodder production, reproductive management and disease management of animals.

On the inaugural day, Professor Incharge MLRI, Prof. Syed Ansar Ul Haq welcomed the participants and hailed the organisers for choosing the MLRI as the training venue where the participants would receive practical demonstration on various operations of dairy farming besides the thoeritical lectures by the top veterinary and agri scientists.

Dr Rayees Ahmad Ganai, Veterinary Officer, Animal Husbandry Department lectured about the various Government schemes for the establishment of dairy farms in Kashmir Division while as Dr Gowher Gull, Senior Scientist (Animal Nutrition) spoke on the importance of balanced feeding of dairy animals for maximising profits

Later Dr Parvaiz Ahmed Reshi, Senior Scientist (Animal Nutrition) and coordinator of the training thanked the participants, experts, the Animal Husbandry department, sponsoring agency MSME for the support.

He appealed the aspiring dairy entrepreneurs to take full advantage of such skill development programmes being organised by SKUAST-K.