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J&K Power Department Warns Against Strikes: Legal Citing and Supreme Court Ruling Highlighted

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The Jammu and Kashmir Power Development Department (PDD) has issued a stern warning to its employees, cautioning them against resorting to strikes or demonstrations. In a circular dated March 26, 2024 (Circular No. 03-JK PDD of 2024), the department emphasized adherence to government instructions, the J&K Government Employees (Conduct) Rules, and a Supreme Court ruling regarding such actions.

The circular highlighted concerns about certain employees engaging in demonstrations and strikes to support assumed demands, branding such actions as entirely illegal. It referenced Rule 20 (ii) of the Jammu and Kashmir Government Employees (Conduct) Rules, 1971, which unequivocally prohibits government employees from participating in or supporting any form of strike related to their service or that of any other government employee.

Furthermore, the circular drew attention to SRO-160 dated July 14, 1995, which prohibits Gazetted officers from forming associations. It specified that recognition of Service Associations could be withdrawn if they were found to violate service conduct rules or fail to meet specified conditions.

Additionally, the circular cited a communication from the General Administration Department in 2023, cautioning government employees against engaging in unwarranted demonstrations and strikes, deeming such actions as serious acts of indiscipline and misconduct.

Referencing a Supreme Court ruling in the case of T.K. Rangarajan vs Government of Tamil Nadu (SC 2003), the circular emphasized that employees do not possess fundamental, statutory, or moral rights to strike, as there is no law supporting it. It underscored that strikes disrupt society and governance, and employees must seek redress through established mechanisms rather than resorting to strikes, which often lead to chaos and maladministration.

The circular concluded by warning employees that any intention to strike or organize demonstrations would be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law.

This warning from the J&K Power Department comes amidst concerns over disruptions caused by strikes and demonstrations and underscores the importance of adherence to legal provisions and established channels for grievance redressal.

News / Politics

Union Home Minister Amit Shah Signals Potential AFSPA Revocation, Troop Withdrawal in Jammu and Kashmir

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Home Minister Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has expressed the Centre’s readiness to consider lifting the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act from Jammu and Kashmir, indicating a shift in strategy for the region.

In an interview with Gulistan News, Shah highlighted the improving situation in Jammu and Kashmir, stating, “We are swiftly considering the revocation of AFSPA from the region, signaling a state of change.”

Addressing the reduced footprint of security forces, Shah emphasized the government’s roadmap for troop withdrawal, which will be implemented post-elections. He praised the transformation of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, once distrusted by New Delhi, now leading law enforcement efforts.

Shah reiterated the government’s commitment to empowering the J&K Police, which now handles most encounters and receives central forces solely for support, reflecting a notable shift in approach.

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Gujjar & Bakerwal hostel Gogji Bagh Srinagar Starts Plantation drive

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A plantation drive was held on Tuesday at Gujjar and Bakerwal hostel in Gogji Bagh area of Srinagar district.The drive was carried out jointly by All Sikh Minority Employees Association, and All Employees Joint Association Kashmir under the banner of All Sikh Minority Employees Association J&K.
Diverse saplings were planted on the occasion with active participation of the members of said employees unions and student community. 
Jugmeet Kour who heads the associations observed that plantation is the key to our survival and employees of Jammu and Kashmir have to give every effort in nation building.
He affirmed that plantation drives combat many environmental issues like deforestation, soil erosion, desertification in semi-arid areas, global warming, and enhancing the beauty and balance of the environment.(KNS)

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Democratic Festival only for the rest of the country, not for J&K : Basharat Bukhari

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Former Law Minister of erstwhile Jammu and Kashmir, Syed Basharat Bukhari, expressed disappointment over the exclusion of J&K from simultaneous elections with other states during the Parliament elections. He stated that this decision indicated the government’s acknowledgment that the situation in J&K was not favorable.

Bukhari remarked that this admission contrasted with the BJP’s previous rhetoric following the abrogation of Article 370. He sharply criticized the Election Commission of India (ECI) for not conducting Assembly and parliamentary elections simultaneously in J&K. He found it perplexing that the situation was considered conducive for elections in one area but adverse in another.

While acknowledging one silver lining, which was the acknowledgment by the J&K Administration of the unfavorable situation, Bukhari questioned the logic behind delaying elections due to the completion of the reorganization and delimitation process. He argued that the three-month period since the completion of these processes should have been sufficient to hold elections, especially considering they hadn’t been held for a decade.

Bukhari lamented that while the day of elections was celebrated as a “Festival of Democracy” in the rest of the country, it brought disappointment to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, who felt isolated and alienated once again. He criticized the BJP for claiming a mega rally in the region, which he believed should have served as an eye-opener but ended in disappointment.

He hoped that the Home Minister would respond to the concerns raised by the J&K Administration during the ECI’s recent visit to the region.

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Apni Party Demands Legislative Assembly Elections and Statehood Restoration in Jammu and Kashmir

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Apni Party staged a peaceful protest demanding Legislative Assembly Elections and statehood restoration for Jammu and Kashmir. Led by Provincial President S. Manjit Singh, the demonstration emphasized the urgent need to address public issues exacerbated by the absence of an elected government.

Manjit Singh stressed the Election Commission of India’s role in announcing Assembly Elections, long overdue, to uphold democratic principles. He highlighted the bureaucracy’s disconnect from public interests, exacerbating feelings of alienation and widening the gap between the public and administration.

The protest also spotlighted the plight of refugees and Displaced Persons (DPs), urging immediate release of pending package amounts and granting proprietary rights over allotted lands. Manjit Singh questioned the delay in disbursing sanctioned funds meant for the financial support of refugees/DPs.

Additionally, the demand for a special recruitment drive for unemployed youth in border villages and addressing farmers’ grievances, including canal water supply, electricity, and loan waivers, featured prominently.

The peaceful protest, which attracted notable participants including local leaders and representatives, concluded in Ramgarh. The event underscored Apni Party’s commitment to addressing the pressing issues faced by the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

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Former Law Minister Criticizes Union Government Over Neglect of Sonam Wangchuk’s Hunger Strike

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Former Law Minister of the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir, Syed Basharat Bukhari, expressed regret over the Union Government’s failure to engage with renowned innovator and Ladakhi Magsaysay Award recipient, Sonam Wangchuk. Wangchuk is currently on a hunger strike demanding statehood status for Ladakh.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Bukhari lamented the lack of attention from New Delhi towards individuals like Wangchuk, who have garnered global admiration for their philanthropy and social initiatives. He emphasized that demanding statehood was a legitimate right, and when someone like Wangchuk resorts to a hunger strike in freezing sub-zero temperatures, it is the government’s responsibility to at least engage with him.

Bukhari underscored the importance of dialogue among all stakeholders, stressing that every voice should be taken seriously. His statement comes amidst the backdrop of two unsuccessful rounds of talks between Ladakh representatives and Home Minister Amit Shah, with no tangible outcomes.

Wangchuk initiated his hunger strike on March 6 following the stalemate in discussions between Ladakh’s leadership and the Union Home Ministry. The Apex Body Leh (ABL) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) reported that talks at the sub-committee level and their separate meeting with Home Minister Amit Shah did not produce any positive outcomes.

Syed Basharat Bukhari urged the Union Government to intervene and persuade Wangchuk to end his hunger strike, particularly considering the harsh weather conditions. He reiterated that peaceful protest within the framework of the constitution is a fundamental right that deserves respect and attention.

As Wangchuk’s protest continues amid a lack of resolution, voices like Bukhari’s highlight the urgency for meaningful dialogue and action to address the legitimate grievances of the people of Ladakh. (KNS)

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Jio Subscribers in Baramulla District Grapple with Connectivity Woes: Erratic Services Spark Concerns

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4G/5G Internet Services in Kashmir

Residents of several areas in the Rafiabad area of Baramulla District have raised concerns over the erratic calling and internet services provided by the private telecom company, Jio. Subscribers from Waripora, Gund Waripora, Sangrapora, Chanam, and adjacent areas have voiced their frustration, citing frequent disruptions in their communication services.

The aggrieved subscribers highlighted the challenges they face in staying connected with their loved ones due to the unreliable network coverage. “Every time we attempt to make a call, we encounter issues such as call drops and complete voice cutting,” remarked one resident.

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Rafi Ahmad Mir Urges Administration for Uninterrupted Power Supply During Ramadan

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Rafi Ahmad Mir, General Secretary of the Apni Party, made an appeal on Tuesday to the administration, urging them to guarantee a consistent power supply throughout the sacred month of Ramadan, particularly during the crucial times of Sehri and Iftar.

In his issued statement, Mir addressed the prevalent grievances concerning frequent power disruptions in various regions across the valley. He emphasized the necessity for the administration to ensure minimal power interruptions, particularly during Ramadan, allowing people to observe their religious practices without inconvenience. Specifically, he stressed the importance of providing uninterrupted power during Sehri and Iftar to facilitate individuals in fulfilling their religious duties smoothly.

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Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Approves Rs. 224.44 Crore for Shopian Bypass Construction

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Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways, took to social media to announce the approval of a budget of Rs. 224.44 crore for the construction of the Shopian Bypass on National Highway-444 in Jammu & Kashmir.

The project aims to convert the highway into a two-lane road with paved shoulders, spanning over 8.925 kilometers in the Shopian district. The construction will be executed using the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) Mode.

Emphasizing the strategic significance of the project, Gadkari highlighted its role in connecting Shopian District with Pulwama and Kulgam within the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. This development is expected to benefit apple growers in south Kashmir, particularly in Shopian district, often referred to as the “Apple bowl of the valley,” by facilitating swifter transportation of their produce to markets.

Gadkari underscored the broader impact of the project, anticipating improved connectivity and heightened road safety measures in the region. The initiative represents a significant step towards enhancing infrastructure and fostering economic growth in Jammu & Kashmir.

News / Politics

J&K Parties Engage in Talks with Election Commission Over Lok Sabha Elections and Assembly Polls

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The Election Commission has engaged in discussions with political parties in Jammu and Kashmir to assess their preparedness for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Various parties, including the National Conference, PDP, BJP, CPI(M), Congress, and AAP, were involved in these discussions.

During these talks, the National Conference stressed the importance of holding assembly elections concurrently with the Lok Sabha polls. The PDP also advocated for simultaneous assembly and Lok Sabha elections.

Following these consultations, the Election Commission plans to review election preparedness with District Election Officers and police officials. Subsequently, they will meet with Jammu and Kashmir’s chief electoral officer and police nodal officers. Similar interactions are scheduled for Jammu on Wednesday.

There has been a growing demand for simultaneous assembly and Lok Sabha elections or immediate assembly polls after the general elections, particularly from former chief ministers Farooq Abdullah and Ghulam Nabi Azad.

Jammu and Kashmir’s Chief Secretary has also taken measures to ensure the smooth conduct of the Lok Sabha polls.