Reasi car Accident: 2 Teachers Among 3 Died

Truck Accident

An Alto car bearing registration number JK20B 1024 rolled down into a deep gorge near Chamelu Morh, Chassana area of Reasi, resulting in instant death of two occupants and critical injuries to two others.

Upon evacuation of the injured duo to a nearby hospital, a minor girl eventually succumbed, taking the toll to three.The official identified the deceased trio as Ghulam Din and Mohd Amin, both teachers by profession, and the minor girl as Sumera Ghulam – all residents of Hamusan area of Chassana tehsil in Reasi.

“The another injured, also a minor, identified as Sajad Ghulsm, has been taken to a nearby hospital for treatment,” added the official.Police that they have taken cognisance of the incident for further investigations. (GNS)

Dal United (JDU) Announcing Candidates for Gulmarg and Kreeri constituencies today

In a significant political move, Jammu & Kashmir’s Janata Dal United (JDU) President, GM Shaheen, has revealed that the party will be declaring its candidates for the Gulmarg and Kreri constituencies later today.

The announcement is expected to take place during a crucial official meeting scheduled for this afternoon.

This development comes as part of JDU’s broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the region, with Shaheen emphasizing the importance of these two constituencies in the upcoming electoral landscape.

NIA Attaches Nasir Rashid Bhat Hizb Worker’s Property in Shopian

NIA

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday attached the property of an overground worker (OGW) of the Kashmir terror outfit, Hizbul Mujahideen (HM), in the case of the targeted killing of the Adoora-Kulgam Sarpanch.
A NIA Spokesman said that continuing with its efforts to dismantle the terror ecosystem, NIA attached Nasir Rashid Bhat’s property– a residential house at Tengpora village in Jammu and Kashmir’s Shopian.
“It has been attached under section 33 (1) of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1947, on orders of the NIA Special Judge, Jammu,” he said.
The spokesman said that the accused, along with other members of the banned Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist organisation, was involved in the killing of Sarpanch on March 11, 2022 with the aim of spreading terror among the people.
“Investigations by the NIA, which took over the case from Kulgam police, revealed that the targeted killing was part of a larger HM conspiracy to disturb India’s integrity, sovereignty and security through violent attacks and killings,” the spokesman said.
NIA further found that Bhat had provided his Alto car to the terrorists.
“Bhat was also involved in conducting a recce of the Sarpanch’s house and in informing the HM terrorists about the target’s presence. He used his car to take the assailants to the area around the Sarpanch’s house on the day of the attack,” he said.
Earlier NIA has chargesheeted six accused in the case and the trial against them is underway.

DEO Budgam Akshay Labroo calls for strict implementation of Model Code of Conduct

The District Election Officer (DEO), Budgam, Akshay Labroo today chaired a meeting of all District and Sectoral officers of both civil and police administration to review the implementation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), in view of the upcoming assembly elections.

At the outset, all the district and sectoral officers were sensitized regarding the strict adherence to Model Code of Conduct during the Assembly Elections-2024 in the District.

DEO directed the all concerned officers to sensitize their subordinate staff regarding the ECI’s guidelines during the MCC.

He said all the guidelines laid down by ECI should be implemented in letter and spirit to ensure playing field to all contesting candidates & to ensure absolutely free & fair polls in the district.

SSP Budgam, Nikhil Borkar also spoke on the occasion, and stressed on ensuring adequate security measures for free, fair and seamless polls in the district.

Among others the meeting was also attended by ADC, ASP, CPO, Dy. DEO, all SDMs, all SDPOs, all Tehsildars and all SHOs besides all sectoral and district officers of all the wings.

Taj Mohi-Ud-Din set to Rejoin Congress

In a major setback for former chief minister Ghulam Nabi Azad’s Democratic Progressive Azad Party, former legislator and senior leader Taj Mohi-Ud-Din on Saturday said he will rejoin the Congress soon.

Addressing a press conference, he said that he has spent over four decades in the Congress and today during a meeting he discussed with his workers about joining back the party.

He said that he will join the party soon. The development comes a day after the Election Commission of India announced schedule for assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir.

In August 2022, Taj Mohi-Ud-Din resigned from the basic membership of Congress in support of former chief minister Ghulam Nabi Azad. He later joined Azad-led DPAP—(KNO)

Farooq Abdullah is Ready to Contest in Assembly Polls

farooq

National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah on Saturday said he will participate in the upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing a press conference in Jammu, Farooq Abdullah, said that he will contest the assembly polls, and that once the statehood is restored, he will step down and his son Omar Abdullah will contest from the seat.

He said that the Statehood has been promised by the central government and all parties are seeking complete restoration at the earliest.

Abdullah while reacting to the poll schedule, said that it is better as it will expose the readiness of parties for the elections.

He said that any decision over pre-poll alliance will be taken by the party after holding threadbare deliberations

The Election Commission of India Friday announced three-phase polls, which were long overdue in Jammu and Kashmir, with first phase being held on September 18, second on September 25 and the third phase on October 1.

Results will be announced on October 4 along with Haryana assembly results, which will go to polls on October 1—(KNO)

Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections 2024: Voting Dates and Key Details Announced

The Election Commission of India (ECI) has announced the schedule for the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Elections 2024, which will be held from 18 September to 1 October. The elections will be conducted in three phases, with voting scheduled for 18 September, 25 September, and 1 October, and the counting of votes set for 4 October. This marks the first Assembly election in Jammu and Kashmir since it was reconstituted as a Union Territory.

Election Schedule and Voter Details

The electoral process will be divided into three phases:

  • Phase 1: 18 September 2024
  • Phase 2: 25 September 2024
  • Phase 3: 1 October 2024

The counting of votes will take place on 4 October 2024. Jammu and Kashmir will have a total of 87.09 lakh voters in this election, including 44.46 lakh male voters and 42.62 lakh female electors. Additionally, there will be 3.71 lakh first-time voters participating in these elections.

The region has 90 Assembly constituencies, with 74 being general constituencies, 7 reserved for Scheduled Castes (SC), and 9 for Scheduled Tribes (ST).

Preparations and Security

The announcement followed a visit earlier this month by a delegation led by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, who reviewed the preparedness of the administration and security agencies. The ECI has assured that all necessary measures are in place to conduct the elections smoothly despite any potential challenges.

The final voter list will be published on 20 August 2024, just after the conclusion of the annual Amarnath Yatra, which ends on 19 August. This timing was essential to ensure the electoral roll is up-to-date and to avoid any security concerns associated with the Yatra.

Political and Public Reactions

The ECI’s announcement has been welcomed by political parties and the public, reflecting a strong desire for the return of democratic processes. Chief Election Commissioner Kumar noted the enthusiasm among the populace and their eagerness to participate in the electoral process. He emphasised that despite any potential disruptions, the ECI is committed to ensuring a fair and orderly election.

The last Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir were held in November-December 2014. The Assembly was dissolved in November 2018, and following the reorganisation of the state into two Union Territories in 2019, the electoral process has now resumed. The delimitation of constituencies, which was notified in May 2022, has resulted in 43 constituencies for the Jammu region and 47 for the Kashmir region.

Looking Forward

As the election dates approach, attention will be focused on the final preparations and the actual conduct of the elections. The ECI’s commitment to a transparent and efficient electoral process will be crucial in ensuring that the elections reflect the will of the people and contribute to the democratic governance of Jammu and Kashmir.

Additional Foodgrains Available for AAY and PHH Households in Jammu & Kashmir

Constituency Development Fund

The Department of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs has announced that additional foodgrains will be made available to Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) and Priority Households (PHH) if needed.

Currently, the Public Distribution System (PDS) in Jammu & Kashmir serves 25.11 lakh households, totalling 98.64 lakh beneficiaries. Of these, 16.64 lakh households with 66.18 lakh beneficiaries are eligible to receive free foodgrains each month under the National Food Security Act (NFSA).

Additionally, nearly 8.47 lakh Non-Priority Households, comprising around 32.46 lakh beneficiaries, are provided foodgrains at highly subsidised rates: rice at Rs. 15/kg, wheat at Rs. 12/kg, and wheat flour at Rs. 13/kg.

To further support Priority Households (PHH), the Government of Jammu & Kashmir is implementing the Prime Minister’s Food Supplementation for Priority Households Scheme. This scheme provides an extra 5 kg of rice per month per member of a PHH, up to a maximum of 10 kg per household, at a cost of Rs. 25/kg. The total entitlement per household under all schemes is capped at 35 kg. Currently, 13.49 lakh households are eligible under this scheme.

The rice is procured through the Open Market Sale Scheme (Domestic) of the Department of Food & Public Distribution, Government of India. Approximately 12,400 MT of foodgrains are required each month to meet the needs of eligible households under this scheme.

As per Government Order No: 94-JK(FCS&CA) of 2023, dated 20-07-2023, there is a provision to supply additional foodgrains at market rates to AAY and PHH families if they request them. This provision appears to have been overlooked by some beneficiaries. Therefore, the Department has issued a new order reminding that if any Priority Household or AAY family needs further foodgrains, they will be provided at a sale price. This price will cover the actual cost of procurement from the Food Corporation of India (FCI) under the Open Market Sale Scheme (Domestic) plus the Department’s handling charges.

Government Transfers 33 Officers in Administrative Reshuffle33 Officers

The government on Friday ordered transfer of 33 officers in the interest of administration with immediate effect.

According to two separate orders which follow transfer and posting of 89 officers ordered on August 15, Abid Iqbal Malik, JKAS, Deputy District Election Officer, Ganderbal, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Director, Tourism, Kashmir.

Malik Waseem Ahmad, JKAS, Deputy Director Tourism, Kashmir, has been transferred and posted as Deputy District Election Officer, Ganderbal.

Vishavjeet Singh, JKAS, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, has been transferred and posted as Secretary, Jammu Development Authority.

Ms. Rehana Akhtar Bijli, JKAS, Personnel Officer, Associated Hospital, Jammu, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to the Government, Social Welfare Department.

Sahil Jandyal, JKAS, Secretary, Jammu Development Authority, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to the Government, Agriculture Production Department.

Suhail-ul-Islam, JKAS, Deputy Secretary to the Government, Department of Forest, Ecology , Environment, has been transferred and posted as Secretary, Srinagar Municipal Corporation.

Ms. Mantasa Binti Rashid, JKAS, Deputy Director, Tourism, Kashmir, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Director, Rural Sanitation, Kashmir.

Mr. Athar Amin Zargar, JKAS, awaiting orders of adjustment in the General Administration Department, has been transferred and posted as Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Marh. “He shall also hold the charge of the post of Sub-Registrar, Marh, in addition to his own duties, till further orders,” reads an order, copy of which lies with Global News Services.

Ms. Sanina Khan, JKAS, Deputy Director, Rural Sanitation, Jammu, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Director (Administration) in the Directorate of Social Welfare, Jammu, against an available vacancy.

Mr. Manu Hansa, JKAS, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Marh, holding additional charge of the post of Sub Registrar, Marh, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Director, Tribal Affairs, Jammu.

Nasir Mehmood Khan, JKAS, Assistant Commissioner (Nazool), Srinagar, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Director Tourism, Kashmir.

Mr. Arun Kumar Badyal, JKAS, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Gandoh, holding additional charge of Sub Registrar, Gandoh, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.

Mr. Musharraf Ali Haf, IKAS, Assistant Commissioner Panchayat, Doda, has been transferred and posted as Sub Divisional Magistrate, Gandoh. “He shall also hold the posted as of Sub-Registrar, Gandoh, in addition to his own duties, till further orders.”

Also, Manoj Kumar, JKAS, Project Officer, Wage Employment (ACD), Doda, has been asked to hold the charge of the post of Assistant Commissioner Panchayat, Doda, in addition to his own duties, till further orders.

Shuaib Mohammad Naikoo, IKAS, Deputy Secretary to the Government, General Administration Department, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to Government, Public Works (R&B) Department.

Atul Dutt Sharma, JKAS, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Jammu (South), has been transferred and posted as personal officer, associated hospitals Jammu.

Mr. Rafiq Ahmad, JKAS, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Ramnagar, holding additional charge of the post of Sub-Registrar, Ramnagar, has been transferred and posted as Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Jammu (South) vice Mr. Atul Dutt Sharma.

Bashir Ahmad Padder, JKAS, General Manager, JKTDC, Kashmir, has been transferred and posted as Assistant Commissioner (Nazool), Srinagar.

Gulshan Kumar, JKAS, District Mineral Officer, Jammu, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to the Government, Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs.

Rajinder Singh, JKAS, District Mineral Officer, Kathua, has been transferred and posted as Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Ramnagar vice Mr. Rafiq Ahmad. “He may also hold the charge of the post of Sub-Registrar, Ramnagar, in addition to his duties, till further orders. “

Mudasir Hussain Famda, JKAS, Secretary, Srinagar Municipal Corporation, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to the Government, Public Works (R&B) Department.

Mohd. Sayeed, JKAS, District Mineral Officer, Samba, has been transferred and posted as District Mineral Officer, Rajouri.

Abdul Khabir, JKAS, Deputy Director, Tribal Affairs Jammu, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to the Government, Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj.

Ms. Naseema Akhter, JKAS, Deputy Secretary to the Government, Public Works (R&B) Department, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to the Government, Department of Forest, Ecology and Environment.

Farooq Ahmed Malik, Deputy Secretary to the Government, Public Works (R&B) Department, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to the Government, Tribal Affairs Department.

Pawan Kumar Goswami, JKAS, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, Gool, holding additional charge of the post of Sub-Registrar, Gool, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board.

Ajay Salaan, JKAS, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, has been transferred and posted as Deputy Secretary to the Government, Industries and Commerce Department.

Altaf Hussain Bhat, JKAS, Administrative Officer in the office of Managing Director, JKSPDC, has been transferred and posted as General Manager, JKTDC, Kashmir.

Also, as per a separate order, Ms. Prerna Raina, JKAS, Additional Secretary in the Resident Commission, J&K Government, New Delhi, has been transferred and asked to await further orders of adjustment in the General Administration Department.

Abhimanyu Singh, Jr. JKAS, presently posted as BDO, Reasi, has been transferred and his services are placed at the disposal of Principal Resident Commissioner, J&K Government, New Delhi.

Mohd. Abrar, Jr. JKAS, presently awaiting orders of adjustment in the General Administration Department, has been transferred and his services are placed at the disposal of Department of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj.

Saroj Khah, Under Secretary in the office of Principal Resident Commissioner, J&K Government, New Delhi has been recalled and asked to await further orders of adjustment in the General Administration Department.

Sanjay Kumar Koul, Under Secretary in the Resident Commission, J&K Government, New Delhi, has been transferred and posted as Under Secretary to the Government, Cooperatives Department.

Susheel Kumar, State Taxes Officer, P-side Railway Station, Jammu, has been transferred and his services are placed at the disposal of Principal Resident Commission, J&K Government, New Delhi against an available vacancy for a period of one year, on deputation basis, subject to the condition that he shall retain lien, seniority and promotion prospects in his parent Department i.e. State Taxes Department. (GNS)

Election Commission of India to Announce Assembly Election Schedule This Friday

The Election Commission of India (ECI) is set to unveil the schedule for upcoming Assembly elections across various states this Friday afternoon.

Current legislative terms are nearing their end: Haryana’s Assembly will conclude on November 3, Maharashtra’s on November 26, and Jharkhand’s on January 5, 2025. For Jammu and Kashmir, the Supreme Court had instructed the ECI last year to hold elections by September 30, 2024. The ECI has already updated the electoral rolls in these states, signaling the start of election preparations.

The schedule will be disclosed during a press conference at 3 PM today. However, the media invitation did not specify which states’ election dates will be revealed.