Justice Hasnain Masoodi’s Bold Pledge: Vows to Reclaim What was Lost in 2019 for Jammu and Kashmir!

“During his visit to various areas in Pulwama, Justice Hasnain Masoodi, a senior leader of the National Conference and Member of Parliament, asserted that if his party secures power, they will endeavor to restore what was taken from Jammu and Kashmir in 2019.

Encouraging the people of Jammu and Kashmir to vote for candidates committed to their welfare in the upcoming elections, Masoodi reiterated the National Conference’s commitment to reclaiming all that was lost in 2019 if they assume power.

Addressing Home Minister Amit Shah’s recent remarks on the revocation of AFSPA, Masoodi emphasized that the immediate priority for the central government should be repatriating Kashmiri youths detained in various jails outside Jammu and Kashmir. He stressed that this would provide much-needed relief to their families.”

J&K Police and Security Forces Conduct Flag March Across Valley Ahead of LS Polls

Ahead of the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, the Jammu and Kashmir Police, alongside security forces, orchestrated a notable flag march spanning all ten districts of the Kashmir Valley. This strategic move, designed to inspire confidence among citizens, aims to pave the way for a seamless and peaceful polling experience.

Led by Vijay Kumar, the Additional Director General of Police for Law and Order in Jammu and Kashmir and the State Police Nodal Officer for the 2024 parliamentary elections, the comprehensive flag march underscores a commitment to election security and smooth proceedings. Security officials emphasize the importance of proactive measures, including continuous monitoring and preemptive actions to mitigate potential risks.

Special attention is devoted to sensitive polling areas, with robust security arrangements and safe routes meticulously planned to safeguard electoral personnel and ensure operational efficiency. ADGP L&O reaffirms the dedication of law enforcement agencies to uphold democratic principles by fostering a secure and equitable electoral environment.

Under the guidelines of the Election Commission of India, the flag march witnessed the joint participation of Jammu and Kashmir Police and paramilitary forces. Notably, in Srinagar city, security convoys traversed from Rajbagh to Rambagh, showcasing preparedness and bolstering citizens’ confidence in the electoral process.

As political parties gear up for the elections, such initiatives are pivotal in fostering a conducive atmosphere for democratic participation and ensuring the integrity of the electoral process.

Airstrip Repair at Bijbehara: Heavy Motor Vehicles Banned on Jammu-Srinagar Highway on April 1-2

In light of repair work on the airstrip at Bijbehara Anantnag, authorities have announced the temporary suspension of Heavy Motor Vehicle (HMV) movement on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway on April 1 and 2.

An official from the Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Department stated that heavy motor vehicles, specifically load carriers, will not be permitted to travel from Srinagar to Jammu or vice versa along NH-44 near Bijbehara Anantnag during the specified period.

HMV movement will be suspended from 0400 hrs to 0700 hrs on April 1 and 2, allowing for the completion of repair work without disruption. Truckers are urged to plan their journeys accordingly and avoid traveling on the highway during the mentioned hours to facilitate the repair process.

The directive emphasizes the importance of ensuring a smooth repair process for the urgent repairs and upgrades required for the airstrip stretch along NH-44 near Bijbehara, Anantnag. Truckers are advised to explore alternate routes and adjust their travel plans to accommodate the temporary ban on heavy motor vehicles on the Jammu-Srinagar NHW during the specified timeframe.

Revised Exam Schedule Issued by J&K Board for Classes 10, 11, and 12 in Hard Zone Areas

 J&K Board of School Education has issued revised date sheets for Annual Regular examination 2023-24 pertaining to Class X, XI, and XII of Hard Zone areas.
There has been change of scheduled time and the examination will be held in two shifts. The examination of 10th Annual Regular (H/Z) has been scheduled w.e.f. 04.04.24 at 10.00 am (Morning shift) while the examination of 12th class (H/Z) has been scheduled w.e.f 08-04-2024 at 2.00 pm (Evening shift). Similarly, 11th class examination of Soft Zone areas has now been rescheduled from 02-04-2024 at 1.00 pm while 11th class examination of Hard Zone areas shall commence from 22-04-2024 at 10.00 am.
The revised schedule has been notified vide notification number F (Acad-C)/Rev/DT/AR/XI-SZ/X-XI-XII-HZ/2024 dated 28-03-2024 which is available on the official website of JKBOSE www.jkbose.nic.in.
As per the notification, the change has been necessitated because of a communique received from  Joint Chief Electoral Officer, J&K, Jammu, regarding the schedule for conduct of Lok Sabha Election 2024. There has also been a communication from National Testing Agency regarding  conduct of  Joint Entrance Examination (Main) 2024, session  w.e.f. 04 April to 15 April 2024 in addition to scores of representations from the students for rescheduling of JKBOSE exams. The date sheets for the examinations of said classes/zones issued earlier be treated as cancelled, read the notification.
All the stakeholders including Principals, Overall Incharges, Superintendents, exam staff, students and parents have been asked to carefully adhere to the revised schedule. The teachers should appropriately inform their students about the revised dates particularly revised time so that there is no confusion and the examinees reach the examination centers on the right day and time.
The overall Incharges shall ensure that the right question paper is opened at the right centre and on the right day/time. The Sub/ Branch officers of JKBOSE shall be specially responsible for dissemination of revised schedule of examination of Hard zone areas. In case of any confusion or query, the stakeholders can contact nearest JKBOSE office or at JKBOSE helpline number 0191-2953195, 0194-3113091 or Joint Secretary Exam JD on mobile number 9419144203 and Joint Secretary Kashmir on mobile number 8493831545.(KNS)

MeT predicts more Rains till March 31 in J&K

Rainfall persists in Jammu and Kashmir with forecasts predicting continued showers till month-end. Night temperatures rise across the valley.

According to a meteorological department official, Pahalgam received 4.4mm rainfall, followed by Gulmarg (3.4mm), Banihal (2.6mm), Qazigund (1.6mm), Bhaderwah (1.2mm), Batote (0.7mm), Kokernag & Jammu (0.6mm), and Srinagar (0.1mm) in the last 24 hours until 0830 a.m. today.

Srinagar recorded a minimum of 9.8°C, above normal by 3.7°C for this time of year. Qazigund and Pahalgam experienced temperatures 5.1°C and 3.4°C above normal, respectively.

Kokernag saw a minimum of 9.1°C, 4.4°C above normal, while Kupwara recorded 9.5°C, 5.0°C above normal. Gulmarg reported 2.0°C, 2.8°C above normal.

Jammu’s minimum temperature stood at 18.8°C, Banihal at 11.2°C, Batote at 12.1°C, and Bhaderwah at 10.8°C.

The forecast indicates generally cloudy weather with light rain in plains and snow in higher reaches over the next 24 hours. Similar conditions are expected from March 29 evening to March 30 night, with partly to generally cloudy weather and intermittent light rain/snow on March 31 at a few places. Dry weather is predicted thereafter.

Kashmir’s Youth President Calls for Fair Airfares to Preserve Accessibility to Valley’s Beauty

As the renowned Tulip Garden in Kashmir welcomes the tourist season, Youth President Mudasir Karim voices concern over steep airfares to Srinagar. Despite past efforts by Crime Branch Kashmir in 2021, exploitative pricing persists, making travel to the Valley unaffordable for many.

The high costs not only deter tourists but also strain locals, especially during Eid when families hope to reunite. It’s distressing to see this issue persist, limiting access to Kashmir’s beauty regardless of one’s financial means.

In a series of tweets, Youth President Mudasir Karim urges the Office of LG Jammu and Kashmir to intervene. He stresses the need for fair pricing regulations with airlines to ensure everyone can experience Kashmir’s allure.

“We can’t let unfair airfares block access to Kashmir’s beauty, especially during Tulip Garden bloom and Eid celebrations,” says Mudasir Karim. “Immediate action is crucial to ease financial strain and promote fairness in Kashmir’s tourism.”

Karim’s advocacy echoes the desires of Kashmiris for fair access to their homeland’s wonders. His efforts highlight the urgency of addressing this issue for the benefit of all.

Residential House Ravaged by Fire in Panar Bandipora District

A blaze tore through a two-story residential home in the Panar area of Bandipora district in north Kashmir, causing significant damage.According to reports received by GNS, the house, owned by Altaf Hussain Chechi and Irshad Ahmad Chechi, sons of Mian Chechi, caught fire this evening.

Emergency responders from the Fire and Emergency Services swiftly arrived at the scene with personnel and equipment to extinguish the flames. Despite their efforts, the fire caused extensive damage to the building. Additionally, a nearby cowshed sustained minor damage.

Confirming the incident, an official from the Fire and Emergency Services informed GNS that they arrived promptly, but the intensity of the blaze posed significant challenges.

Eid Prayers at Eidgah Srinagar Suspended Due to Ground Conditions: Darakhshan Andrabi

BJP's Andrabi

Darakhshan Andrabi, Chairperson of the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board, announced on Wednesday that Eid prayers will not take place at Eidgah Srinagar due to the ground’s inadequate condition.

Addressing the media in Rajbagh, Dr. Andrabi emphasized that this year, ‘Namaz E Eid’ cannot be held at Eidgah Srinagar owing to the subpar state of the ground. However, she assured that efforts are underway to enhance the ground’s condition, promising that Eid prayers will resume at Eidgah Srinagar soon.

Additionally, sources within the Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board revealed to Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that a significant renovation project for Eidgah Srinagar is in the works and will commence shortly.

PDP Chief Mehbooba Mufti Urges Action on AFSPA and Troop Withdrawal in Jammu and Kashmir

mehboba mufti

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Chief Mehbooba Mufti emphasized the importance of Union Minister Amit Shah’s recent statement regarding the revocation of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA) and the withdrawal of troops from Jammu and Kashmir. Mufti stated that these actions were an integral part of the party’s Agenda of Alliance (AoA), which was mutually agreed upon by the BJP during the formation of the government after the 2014 elections.

Expressing hope that the central government would fulfill its commitment, Mufti highlighted the potential relief such actions could bring to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. She conveyed these sentiments via the micro-blogging site X (formerly Twitter), reiterating the PDP’s consistent demand for the revocation of AFSPA and the gradual withdrawal of troops.

However, Mufti cautioned against empty promises, referencing previous pledges such as the generation of two crore jobs annually and the deposit of 15 lakhs into bank accounts. She emphasized the need for genuine action rather than mere rhetoric.

Mufti also urged the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) to demonstrate its commitment by releasing journalists and thousands of young Kashmiri boys currently held in jails without charges or prosecution.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah had recently indicated that the government would consider revoking AFSPA from Jammu and Kashmir, stating that a roadmap for troop withdrawal from the Union Territory was under consideration. In an interview with a Kashmir-based news channel, Shah acknowledged the improving situation in the region and affirmed the government’s commitment to address these issues.

Udhampur Lok Sabha Constituency Eight New Nominees file nomination

On the final day for nomination submissions for the Udhampur Lok Sabha constituency, an additional eight candidates have stepped forward to file their papers.

Among these candidates are Mehraj Din, running as an Independent Candidate, Rajesh Manchanda representing the Rashtriya Krantikari Samajwadi Party, Ch Lal Singh of the Indian National Congress, Divya Suraj Partap Singh also from the Indian National Congress, Sachin Gupta from the Inqalab Vikas Dal (I.V.D), Manoj Kumar from the Ekam Sanatan Bharat Dal, Balwan Singh of the J&K National Panthers Party, and Dr. Pankaj Sharma running independently. They lodged their nomination papers at the office of the Returning Officer.

With the inclusion of these eight contenders, the total count of candidates vying for the 4-Udhampur PC seat rises to fifteen.The scrutiny of these nomination papers is slated for March 28, 2024, at 01:00 PM.Candidates have the option to withdraw their nominations until March 30, 2024, before 03:00 PM, at the office of the Returning Officer.This constituency is set for Elections in the first phase of General Elections, scheduled for April 19.