News

News

Efforts on to trace-out attackers targeting police personnel: IGP Kashmir VK Birdhi

by
igp

Dec 28 (KNS): Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone Vidhi Kumar Birdhi Thursday said that J&K Police is working on vigorously to trace-out attackers who had targeted police personnel in Valley. 
IGP urged policemen to take utmost precautions during on & off duty modes and remain vigilant to thwart the designs of terrorists.
Talking exclusively to news wire Kashmir News Service (KNS) – IGP Kashmir said that J&K Police is working on to trace out those attackers who recently targeted our police personnel. He said that challenges have always been there when it comes to attacks on policemen but there are Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) laid down by the department to thwart the designs of terrorists. 
“SOPs should be strictly followed in letter and spirit. We are identifying culprits involved in attacks. Investigation is underway and soon elements behind such acts will be brought to justice,” IGP Kashmir said.
To a reply the IGP said it is a great achievement for Jammu & Kashmir Police that Shergadi Police Station has been selected as one of the top three police stations in the country. “It is a great achievement and a moment of pride for all of us. J&K Police will give its best to serve people of J&K and is committed to wipe out issues impeding smooth growth of the society,” he said.
On war against drugs the IGP added that police has been working with specific focus on drugs and those involved in this trade have been arrested and notorious ones’ have been slapped with PIT NDPS. (KNS)

News

PDP holds meet to finalise arrangements for Mufti Mohd Syed Sahab death anniversary

by

A high level meeting of the office bearers of Peoples Democratic Party was held here today in Dakbanglow Anantnag under the chairmanship of Parliamentary Board Chairman Mohd Sartaj Madni .
The meeting chalked out programmes and finalised arrangements for observing the  death anniversary of Party Patron and former chief minister, late Mufti Mohammad Sayeed which falls on January 07, 2024.Chairing the meeting,Mohd Sartaj Madni asked the party functionaries to work dedicatedly for the coming event. He said it is the responsibility of party cadre to take the vision and mission of late Mufti Sayeed to people and also make them aware about the efforts of the government in fulfilling that.Mohd Sartaj Madni asked the leaders of the party that the aim of observing the anniversary is to re dedicate ourselves to the cause of late Mufti sahib which he said is a great source of strength to the people of Jammu & Kashmir. Meeting was attended by Vice President Ab Rehman Veeri , Chairman PB Mohd Sartaj Madni, Youth President Waheed Ur Rehman and others .(KNS)

News

Shalimar canal project advances swiftly under Srinagar smart city initiative, CEO SSCL expresses confidence in timely completion

by

Chief Executive Officer, Athar Aamir Khan of Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) provided an update on Wednesday regarding the progress of the Shalimar Canal project, a noteworthy undertaking within the broader scope of the Srinagar Smart City initiative. Khan conveyed that the project is currently advancing at a vigorous pace, and he expressed optimism about its timely completion.The commitment to full-scale efforts reflects the dedication of SSCL to realize the objectives of the Srinagar Smart City initiative, showcasing the organization’s determination to deliver on crucial urban development projects for the benefit of the community.News agency KNS reported that Athar Aamir Khan highlighted the pivotal role the Shalimar Canal would play in connecting Shalimar Garden to Dal Lake via the new Northern Lake Front.
He expressed satisfaction with the ongoing pace of construction, affirming that the project is advancing at full throttle.“The Shalimar Canal project is a vital component of our commitment to enhance the urban infrastructure of Srinagar under the Smart City initiative. This canal will not only serve as a picturesque waterway but will also bolster connectivity between two iconic locations, Shalimar Garden and Dal Lake,” Commissioner Athar Khan stated.He further elaborated on the technical aspects of the project, emphasizing that meticulous planning has been undertaken to ensure environmental sustainability and minimize any potential impact on the surrounding areas.

“The canal’s route through the new Northern Lake Front has been carefully chosen to integrate seamlessly with the existing landscape, preserving the natural beauty of the surroundings. Our focus is not just on completing the project efficiently but also on creating a lasting asset that adds value to the city and its residents,” Khan explained.Regarding the timeline for completion, CEO Athar Khan conveyed optimism, stating, “Our teams are working diligently, and I am pleased to announce that we are on track to finish the Shalimar Canal project within the next couple of months. This is a testament to the dedication and collaborative effort of everyone involved in this venture.”

The Shalimar Canal project aligns with the broader vision of the Srinagar Smart City initiative, which aims to transform Srinagar into a technologically advanced, sustainable, and citizen-friendly urban center.As the construction progresses, anticipation is building among the residents of Srinagar, who eagerly await the realization of this transformative project that promises not only improved infrastructure but also an enhanced quality of life.(KNS)

News

Masarat Alams Muslim League Declared Banned Organisation under Anti-Terror Laws

by

The ‘Muslim League Jammu Kashmir’ has recently been designated as an ‘unlawful association’ under the anti-terror legislation, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, as disclosed by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. Headed by Masarat Alam, the interim chairman of the hardline faction within the All party Hurriyat Conference, formerly led by separatist figure Syed Ali Shah Geelani, the organization has been implicated in activities that are both anti-national and secessionist within the region of Jammu and Kashmir. Minister Shah conveyed his message through a post on X, asserting that the organization and its members actively support terrorist activities and incite efforts to establish Islamic rule in Jammu and Kashmir.

Emphasizing the government’s resolute stance, Minister Shah reiterated that those acting against the unity, sovereignty, and integrity of India will face the full force of the law, echoing the clear message of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s administration. The Home Ministry, in its notification, highlighted the organization’s reputation for disseminating “anti-India and pro-Pakistan propaganda.” Furthermore, it outlined that the leaders of the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir have been found raising funds from various sources, including Pakistan and its affiliated entities, to support illicit activities. The notification also underscored the engagement of the organization’s members in secessionist endeavors, coupled with a blatant disregard for the constitutional authority of the country. Particularly, the notification pointed out the involvement of Masarat Alam, the chairman, in activities deemed detrimental to the unity, integrity, security, and communal harmony of the nation.

News

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Assures Justice for Poonch civilian deaths

by

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, during his visit to Rajouri on Wednesday, expressed concern for the injured civilians and reassured that justice would be served.”I came to see the injured civilians, and though the unfortunate incident has occurred, justice will be done,” Singh conveyed while engaging with the relatives of those allegedly tortured by security forces in Poonch district.The Defence Minister reiterated his commitment to ensuring justice as he addressed the family members of the injured civilians. He acknowledged the gravity of the situation and emphasized the need for a fair resolution.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Singh’s comments coincided with a comprehensive inquiry initiated by the Indian Army, under the Ministry of Defence, into a series of events, including a terrorist attack on army vehicles near Bufliyaz in the Dehra Ki Gali forests and the subsequent reported deaths of three locals allegedly detained for questioning by the army.

Earlier, Singh arrived in Rajouri to assess the security situation, expressing the significance of every soldier and their integral role in the national family. He conveyed his well-wishes for the swift recovery of the injured soldiers and affirmed the government’s commitment to taking all necessary measures for their well-being.

“I want to assure you that, considering the seriousness of all the soldiers who have been injured, every effort is being made to take all necessary steps. No stone is being left unturned for their well-being. Every soldier is crucial to us, akin to a member of the family, and we cannot tolerate any disrespect towards our soldiers and countrymen,” stated Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in Rajouri.

News

Basharat Bukhari ahead of Rajnath Singh’s visit to Jammu seeking justice for poonch tragedy

by

Srinagar, Dec 26 (KNS): In anticipation of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s upcoming assessment of the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir on December 27, former Law Minister Syed Basharat Bukhari expressed optimism on Tuesday, stating, “We hope that justice will be served through this visit.”

Bukhari, exhibiting unwavering trust, conveyed his expectations that the families of the three civilians who lost their lives in mysterious circumstances in Poonch would find solace and justice. In a message directed at Rajnath Singh on Twitter, he stated, “Mr. Rajnath Ji, HDM @DefenceMinIndia, you are visiting J&K to assess the situation after the Poonch Encounter. We strongly believe that you will not disappoint the families affected by the tragic events. May justice prevail. Stay blessed.”

As reported earlier by KNS, the Defence Minister is set to conduct a security review meeting at Jammu Raj Bhawan, bringing together key figures from the Army, intelligence agencies, Police, BSF, CRPF, etc. Rajnath Singh plans to interact with the local community in the area where three civilians reportedly lost their lives last week, allegedly while in the custody of the Army. (KNS)

News

Prominent political activist and sarpanch in Pulwama Joins Apni Party

by

Rafi Ahmad Mir extends a warm welcome to Daisy Raina in the party fold

Daisy Raina, a prominent social and political activist from the minority community and currently serving as a Sarpanch in Pulwama, joined the Apni Party during a special event held at the party headquarters in Srinagar on Thursday.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
According to a press note, Rafi Ahmad Mir, the party’s senior leader and general secretary, extended a heartfelt welcome to Ms. Raina. He assured her that the Apni Party would serve as a reliable platform for advancing the interests of her community and fostering overall development in her locality.
Besides, Rafi Ahmad Mir, the party’s provincial president Mohammad Ashraf Mir, state secretary and spokesperson Muntazir Mohiuddin, provincial secretary and DDC Aripal Tral, as well as the district youth president and party in-charge for Srinagar’s Khanyar constituency Mohasin Zaffar Shah, were also present on the occasion.(KNS)

News

BJP Leader Ashok Koul Strongly Condemns Targeted Killings in Jammu and Kashmir, Expresses Confidence in Party’s Victory in Assembly Polls

by

On Monday, BJP leader Ashok Koul expressed strong condemnation for the tragic killing of a retired police officer in the Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir. He assured the public that those responsible for targeted killings in the valley would be swiftly brought to justice. During a press interaction following a party event, Koul conveyed his confidence in the Bharatiya Janata Party’s ability to secure over 50 seats in Jammu and Kashmir during the upcoming Assembly polls in the Union Territory.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Emphasizing the commitment to address the issue of targeted killings, Koul stated, “Our administration will root out those responsible for such incidents and ensure they face justice. We strongly condemn these targeted killings, and the perpetuators of such attacks will soon be eradicated by the administration.”

Regarding the recent tragic incident involving the killing of retired superintendent of police Mohammad Shafi Mir while he was calling for “azaan,” Koul underscored the intolerability of such acts in any religion. “The SP was killed in Baramulla while he was in a mosque calling for azaan. Such an act is condemnable and goes against the principles of any religion,” Koul asserted.

Responding to inquiries about the security situation, Koul noted that while recent attacks have targeted security personnel, individuals from various walks of life have also fallen victim to terrorism. “It’s not just the police being targeted; others have also been victims. However, there has been a recent focus on attacks against police personnel,” he added.

When questioned about the BJP’s prospects in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly polls, Koul expressed optimism, saying, “Our focus is on hard work, and the results will follow. We are confident, based on our track record, that we will secure more than 50 seats out of the 90 in Jammu and Kashmir.”

On the matter of engaging in talks with Pakistan, Koul did not provide a direct response but highlighted the efforts made for friendly relations. He referenced former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s visit to Lahore and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unconventional journey to meet Nawaz Sharif in Kabul. Despite these efforts, Koul recalled the unfortunate incident of the Pathankot attack occurring shortly after Modi’s return from Pakistan.

News

CPI(M) condemns alleged killings of 3 civilians in Poonch

by

The Polit Bureau of the CPI(M) has condemned the alleged killing of three civilians in the Poonch district while they were incustody of the army.  In a statement, issued to KNS, a spokesperson said that Mohammad Showkat, Safeer Hussain and Shabir Ahmad were rounded up by armypersonnel and subjected to severe torture which resulted in their deaths.

The statement reads that the J&K administration has announced compensation for the families of deceased, but that is not enough. “There has to be a speedy investigationand punishment meted out to those responsible.” It added that leople of J&K, who have long suffered from such acts of impunity, expectaccountability to be fixed in the matter and justice done. (KNS)


News

Former Chief Engineer, VC SDA, Muhammad Yousuf Bhat passes away

by

Former Chief Engineer, Vice-Chairman, Srinagar Development Authority (SDA) Muhammad Yousuf Bhat, passed away on Sunday after a brief illness. He was 73.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

The deceased Muhammad Yousuf Bhat originally hailed from Fateh Kadal area in Downtown, Srinagar and was currently residing at Rajbagh near Police Station.

He breathed his last on December 24, 2023 (Sunday) after fighting cancer at SKIMS, Srinagar. He is survived by wife, daughter and son. The deceased was an elder brother of trader, Muhammad Amin Bhat. 

The family of the deceased informed that his congregational prayers would be held at his residence, opposite, Police Station, Rajbagh. Chahrum of the deceased will be held on Thursday December, 28, 2023 at his residence. 

Bhat was known for his proactive role in executing several civil and developmental works in Srinagar and other distrcit headquarters. Among his colleagues, Bhat was known for his deep sense of humanity and helping hand which earned him many accolades.  

“He, indeed left us with fond memories and an unrecoverable loss. We pray to almighty to give strength to his dear and loved ones and to get through this difficult and testing time.”(KNS)