Is there a joint decision by Sajjad Lone and Altaf Bukhari to contest elections together?

In a big political development, PC President Sajad Lone and Apni Party President Altaf Bukhari met at an undisclosed location in Srinagar. They met without aides and without any security. It was a one on one meeting. This meeting assumes importance as it comes in the backdrop of the upcoming parliamentary elections. 
According to sources, previously estranged leaders Sajad Lone and Altaf Bukhari met face to face after a very long time. They seem have expressed a desire to temporarily set aside differences and prioritize a collective fight against a common adversary detrimental to the people of Jammu and Kashmir. Sources close to them emphasized that despite not being on talking terms for the longest time now, the leaders strongly believe that the common adversary, involved in actions like killings, unjust imprisonments, and imposing draconian laws on innocent Kashmiris, must be overcome. They’ve agreed that they owe it to the people of J&K that common enemy of people of J&K should not win by virtue of division of votes. 
Additionally, the source revealed that they also discussed the critical necessity of cleansing Kashmiri politics. “They intend to take other leaders on board and expose politicians who exhibit inconsistent behaviors. They especially felt that leaders who swear by sentiment by the day and enjoy the hospitality of agencies by the night need to be publicly exposed”, he added.
This unexpected turn in political dynamics bears the potential to significantly impact electoral outcomres.(KNS)

PDP Chairman Sartaj Madni Strongly Condemns Selective Treatment in Allowing Leaders to Console Families of Poonch

Srinagar, Dec 30 : The Chairman of the Parliamentary Board of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Mohammad Sartaj Madni, has strongly criticized the discriminatory treatment meted out to PDP President and former Chief Minister, Ms Mehbooba Mufti. She was prevented from meeting the families of three individuals who were found dead a day after being detained by the Army following a recent terror attack in Poonch.

Expressing his condemnation, Sartaj Madni revealed that Ms Mehbooba Mufti had intended to visit Poonch’s Surankote area to offer condolences and show solidarity with the families of the victims, namely Safeer Hussain (43), Mohd Showket (27), and Shabir Ahmad (32), who were apprehended by the Army for questioning and later found dead.

Mohammad Sartaj Madni questioned the administration’s selective treatment, denouncing it as a cowardly act. He raised concerns about the decision to impose restrictions on Ms Mehbooba Mufti while allowing BJP President Ravinder Raina and NC leaders to meet the families of the victims recently. This incident has sparked a debate on the fairness and equity in the handling of such sensitive situations by the administration. (KNS)

Lt Governor hands over appointment letter to wife of Hav Abdul Majid

 DECEMBER 30:  Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha handed over appointment letter to Mst. Sagera Bi, wife of Havaldar Abdul Majid, at Raj Bhawan today. The family members of the martyr were also present.
The Lt Governor paid homage to the Havaldar Abdul Majid who made supreme sacrifice for the nation during an anti-terror operation in Rajouri. He assured every possible assistance and support to the family of the braveheart.
Earlier this month, the Lieutenant Governor had visited the family members of the Havaldar Abdul Majid in Ajote, Poonch.(KNS)

Celebrating Kashmir’s Artistry: Handicrafts and Handloom Exhibition Unveiled at Boulevard Road, Srinagar

The Handicrafts & Handloom Department in Kashmir has launched a Handicrafts and Handloom Exhibition at Boulevard Road in Srinagar, showcasing a diverse range of products. Organized by the district Srinagar’s Handicrafts and Handloom Department, the exhibition aims to boost sales and provide consistent employment for artisans and weavers.

Mahmood Ahmad Shah, Director of Handicrafts and Handloom Kashmir, inaugurated the exhibition alongside Khalid Majeed, Director of Industries & Commerce, Kashmir, and senior department officers. The ten-day expo along the scenic Boulevard Road features stalls allocated to artisans free of charge, promoting the display and sale of authentic handicrafts.

Various crafts such as Sozni, Papier Mache, Carpet, Leather, Crewel, and Pashmina are highlighted at the exhibition. The location along the picturesque Dal Lake adds to the charm of the event, providing artisans a platform to directly engage with buyers and tourists. The Director emphasized the exhibition’s role in connecting artisans with customers, while Mohsina Irshad, Assistant Director of Handicrafts and Handloom Srinagar, highlighted its impact on local entrepreneurship, cultural preservation, and tourism promotion. The event not only supports the local economy but also showcases the cultural richness of Kashmir to a diverse audience.

One Nation One Transit Pass System: Transforming Forest Produce Transportation Across India

The virtual inauguration of a groundbreaking initiative, the ‘One Nation One Transit Pass system,’ took place today, as Union Minister for Forest and Environment, Bhupender Yadav, flagged off vehicles from Srinagar to Pune, Maharashtra State, and from Gandhinagar, Gujarat, to West Bengal. Leveraging the National Transit Pass System (NTPS), this ambitious project is poised to revolutionize the transportation of forest produce, promoting a seamless flow within states and across state borders.

This move aligns with the government’s commitment to e-governance initiatives, aiming to enhance Ease of Doing Business, transparency, accountability, and overall efficiency in governmental systems. The ‘One Nation One Transit Pass system’ seeks to facilitate the swift and trouble-free movement of timber and other forest produce, benefitting farmers, timber traders, and the general populace.

Union Minister Yadav expressed optimism about the positive impact of this initiative, emphasizing that it would empower transporters to move their products across India with a single permit. The system eliminates the need for stops at inter-state borders, enabling vehicles to reach their destinations in record time. Yadav underscored the government’s dual commitment to promoting development while safeguarding and conserving the environment for the improved quality of life of citizens.

During the virtual event, Minister of State for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Ashwani Kumar Choubey, along with the Director General of Forests & Special Secretary, Government of India, also shared their perspectives on the transformative initiative.

Meanwhile, in Srinagar, Additional Chief Secretary for Forest, Ecology, and Environment in the Jammu and Kashmir Government, Dheeraj Gupta, highlighted the people-centric nature of the new system. Gupta emphasized its benefits for timber traders, owners of wood industries, farmers, and the general public. Roshan Jaggi, PCCF & HoFF of the Jammu and Kashmir Government, noted that the region is a pioneer in fully transitioning to the new online system, a testament to the department’s commitment to transparency and efficiency.

Jaggi further informed that the department is undertaking various initiatives to enhance the livelihoods of local communities, including the new NTFP policy, waste-to-wealth activities, and Van se Jal, Jal se Jeevan initiatives. Notably, in the last few months, the department has issued approximately 7000 transport permits and NoCs under the new NTPS system, marking a significant step towards modernizing and streamlining its operations.

Chief Prosecuting Officers Appointed as Acting Deputy Directors in the Prosecution Department

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Twelve Chief Prosecuting Officers (CPOs) have been designated as Acting Deputy Directors within the Prosecution Department.

The approval has been granted for the assignment of these Chief Prosecuting Officers as Acting Deputy Directors in the Prosecution department, maintaining their existing pay and grade. This assignment is effective for a duration of six months or until the positions are permanently filled through the recommendations of the Departmental Promotion Committee or Public Service Commission (DPC or PSC), whichever occurs first. This directive is outlined in an official order issued by Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary) Home, Raj Kumar Goyal.

The Chief Prosecuting Officers appointed as Acting Deputy Directors are Nazir Ahmed Naikoo, Harminder Singh, Kamal Sharma, Suresh Kumar, Prashant Mahajan, Aijaz Hussain, Javaid Ahamad Bhat, Davinder Paul Singh, Muhammad Maqbool Shah, Vikrant Sharma, Ashish Rathore, and Ghulam Jeelani Dar.

These arrangements have been implemented solely in the interest of administration, serving as temporary measures and do not grant any preferential rights to these officers for promotion. The promotions will be strictly governed by the Jammu and Kashmir Prosecution Service Recruitment Rules 2020, as emphasized by Goyal. Furthermore, these placements are made without prejudice to any ongoing writ petition(s) before any Court or Tribunal of competent jurisdiction, as highlighted by Goyal.

Chief Justice N. Kotiswar Singh Champions Environmental Stewardship in Birding Event at Chatlam Wetland Reserve

Srinagar, December 29 : Demonstrating a commendable dedication to environmental conservation, Chief Justice N. Kotiswar Singh of Jammu and Kashmir recently took charge of a birding event at the scenic Chatlam Wetland Reserve in Pampore.

The event went beyond merely admiring the array of bird species, aiming to mobilize both the community and students towards active engagement in conservation initiatives. Chief Justice Singh, while immersed in the event, highlighted the crucial role that each individual plays in maintaining the fragile equilibrium of nature.

Encouraging both students and community members, Chief Justice Singh advocated for a proactive stance on conservation, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding vital ecosystems such as the Chatlam Wetland Reserve.

As Chief Justice Singh observed various bird species thriving in their natural habitat, he provided insights into the interdependence of biodiversity and a flourishing environment. His presence acted as a catalyst for increased awareness, instilling a sense of responsibility among attendees for the region’s diverse ecological heritage.

This birding event at Chatlam Wetland Reserve, spearheaded by the Chief Justice, underscores the judiciary’s commitment to broader societal concerns. It not only celebrated the rich avian diversity of the area but also sought to kindle a collective sense of obligation towards preserving the natural marvels that contribute to the cultural and environmental identity of Jammu and Kashmir.

Gulmarg Golf Course Set to Host a Spectacular New Year’s Eve Celebration

December 29, 2023 : As the year 2023 draws to a close, the picturesque Gulmarg Golf Course is gearing up to host an enchanting New Year’s Eve celebration on December 31st. Tourism officials shared with KNS that the iconic venue will be transformed into a dazzling spectacle, featuring music, a mesmerizing laser light and sound show, and performances by renowned artists such as Abha Hanjura, Adil Gurezi, and Afaq Shafi, known for their exceptional journey on Indian Idol.

The New Year’s Eve festivities are expected to be a grand affair, attracting both locals and visitors to the renowned golf course. Attendees can anticipate a unique fusion of talent, entertainment, and the stunning backdrop of Gulmarg’s snow-covered landscape.

Abha Hanjura, celebrated for her soulful renditions, will grace the stage with her melodious voice, offering a diverse range of musical genres. Adil Gurezi, a beloved artist in the region, will infuse the event with his signature style, ensuring a lively atmosphere.

Afaq Shafi, recognized for his prominence on Indian Idol, is set to captivate the audience with his powerful and versatile vocal performances.

The highlight of the night will be a spectacular laser light and sound show, illuminating the Gulmarg sky with a symphony of colors and patterns. The fusion of music and cutting-edge visual effects promises an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

Organizers are urging attendees to mark their calendars for this unparalleled celebration, emphasizing that it will be a night filled with joy, music, and the spirit of New Year’s Eve.

The Gulmarg Golf Course, already renowned for its breathtaking beauty, will be transformed into a magical setting for welcoming 2024 in style.

As anticipation builds, residents and visitors are advised to secure their spots early to ensure they do not miss out on what promises to be the highlight of the year-end festivities in Gulmarg.

With a stellar lineup of performers and a stunning showcase of lights, the event is poised to be a fitting farewell to 2023 and a vibrant welcome to the possibilities of the coming year.

Invitation for Finalists: Kashmir Cricket League (KCL) Seeks Final Match Schedule Input from Teams

, Dec 28 (KNS): Kashmir News Service Pvt. Ltd. has invited two finalist teams and tournament collaborators of Kashmir Cricket League(KCL) to share their available schedule so that final match of the league could be played in time.
In a statement issued here, KNS, which organised the Kashmir Cricket League(KCL) in Budgam in collaboration with Youth Services and Sports & JK Sports Council requested the teams that reached the finals of the league, Sports Council and Youth Services and Sports department to share their available scheduled with them so that final match could be played. 
The inaugural match was played on September 20 this years. A total of 32 teams participated in the tournament. 
62 matches including two semi-finals have been played and now the final match of this league will be played on the date when both teams and collaborators will be available. 
Both teams and JK Sports Council and Youth Services and Sports are requested to share their available schedule with us,” the statement reads. (KNS)

Misleading narratives being spread to justify abrogation of Art 370: Yousf Tarigami

 Dec 28 (KNS): Senior CPI(M) leader Mohamamd Yousuf Tarigami Thursday said that misleading  narratives are persistently being propagated to make people of Jammu and Kashmir realize about the benefits of the abrogation of the special constitutional position of Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370, which was taken away by the Centre on August 05, 2019.
Referring to the statement of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha that implementation  of  Anand Marriage Act to Jammu and Kashmir became possible only because of the abrogation of article 370, Tarigami said that there has been a long list of amendments made to article 370, allowing the application of Central laws to Jammu and Kashmir. 
He said the passage of GST in 2017 by the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly was one of such instances in recent times, and added there were 42 constitution (Application to J&K) orders extending the scope of central intervention  which were not envisaged at the time of the adoption of Article 370.
Additionally, the extent of the misuse of Article 370 to encroach on the state’s power can be seen from one of the measures taken in July 1986.
The President issued an order under Article 370, extending Article 249 of the Constitution to the state. This empowered the Parliament to legislate on matters in the state list based on a resolution from the Rajya Sabha, Tarigami said.
Pertinently, it received approval from the centrally-appointed Governor, Jagmohan. Such overriding of the state list is unique to Jammu and Kashmir and isn’t applicable to other states, he held. (KNS)

 Dec 28 (KNS): Senior CPI(M) leader Mohamamd Yousuf Tarigami Thursday said that misleading  narratives are persistently being propagated to make people of Jammu and Kashmir realize about the benefits of the abrogation of the special constitutional position of Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370, which was taken away by the Centre on August 05, 2019.
Referring to the statement of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha that implementation  of  Anand Marriage Act to Jammu and Kashmir became possible only because of the abrogation of article 370, Tarigami said that there has been a long list of amendments made to article 370, allowing the application of Central laws to Jammu and Kashmir. 
He said the passage of GST in 2017 by the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly was one of such instances in recent times, and added there were 42 constitution (Application to J&K) orders extending the scope of central intervention  which were not envisaged at the time of the adoption of Article 370.
Additionally, the extent of the misuse of Article 370 to encroach on the state’s power can be seen from one of the measures taken in July 1986.
The President issued an order under Article 370, extending Article 249 of the Constitution to the state. This empowered the Parliament to legislate on matters in the state list based on a resolution from the Rajya Sabha, Tarigami said.
Pertinently, it received approval from the centrally-appointed Governor, Jagmohan. Such overriding of the state list is unique to Jammu and Kashmir and isn’t applicable to other states, he held. (KNS)