Jammu Police on Thursday registered a formal case in connection with a firing incident in Sainik Colony last month that was initially reported as a road traffic accident (RTA).
The FIR was lodged after it surfaced during investigation that the injuries sustained by three women were not due to an accident but a targeted shooting.
According to officials, three women — Mehjabeen Akil Sheikh (30), daughter of Akil Sheikh, resident of West Malad, Mumbai; her sister Fatima Akhil (21); and Jaspreet Kour (28), resident of Ludhiana, Punjab — were residing in a rented accommodation at House No. 157, Sector A, Sainik Colony, Jammu.
On August 21, 2025, the women were reportedly taken to JK Medicity Hospital as victims of a road traffic accident. They were later shifted to ASCOMS Batra Hospital and subsequently referred to GMC Jammu, where Mehjabeen succumbed to her injuries.
An inquest proceeding (DD No. 29 dated 30/08/2025) was initiated at Police Station Channi. However, during the course of investigation, police discovered that the three women had actually come under fire inside their rented accommodation when an unknown individual opened fire on them before fleeing the spot.
“The incident was deliberately concealed and projected as a road accident by the injured individuals,” police sources said.
Taking cognizance of the revelations, an FIR No. 152/2025 under Sections 103(1), 109, and 332(b) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) has been registered against the unknown accused.
Police have launched a probe to identify and apprehend the culprit, and further investigation is underway.
Continuing the momentum of road development works in Banihal constituency, National Conference leader and MLA Banihal, Sajjad Shaheen, today kick-started the macadamisation of the Banihal–Chanjloo road, fulfilling a long-pending demand of the local population.
Shaheen said that this project is part of the broader initiative to strengthen road connectivity across the constituency and follows the recent macadamisation of the Banihal–Lamber and Banihal–Dooligam roads. He expressed confidence that these works will greatly ease the hardships of commuters, ensure safer and smoother travel, and improve access to far-flung villages.
“Improved connectivity is the backbone of development. Our people have suffered due to poor road conditions for decades. The present government under Hon’ble Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has prioritised road infrastructure, and Banihal is now witnessing projects that were long overdue,” Shaheen said.
The MLA extended gratitude to the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister for their support, noting that more roads approved under the Banihal–Gool constituency plan will be taken up in a phased manner. He assured the people that quality work and time-bound completion will remain his top priority.
Shaheen reiterated his resolve to continue pursuing all developmental projects with missionary zeal, emphasising that no village in Banihal will be left disconnected from the mainstream of development.
Local residents warmly welcomed the initiative and expressed optimism that the pace of development in Banihal will continue with renewed energy.
The Anti Corruption Court Doda convicted two Engineers of Roads and Building (R&B) department in a trap case.
According to a statement issued to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the spokesman said that the Judge, Anti-Corruption Court Doda, Archana Charak, convicted two Engineers—Syed Ikhlaq Hussain Peer, AEE, and Raja Faisal, JE—both then posted in PWD (R&B) West Sub Division Doda, in FIR No. 14/2011 under Section 5(1)(d) read with 5(2) of the J&K Prevention of Corruption Act, Svt. 2006, and Sections 120-B & 161 RPC registered at Police Station VOJ (now ACB).
The court sentenced each accused to rigorous imprisonment for one year and a fine of Rs 10,000 under Section 120-B RPC; rigorous imprisonment for one year and a fine of Rs 10,000 under Section 161 RPC; and rigorous imprisonment for one year and a fine of Rs 10,000 under Section 5(2) of the J&K Prevention of Corruption Act, Svt. 2006.
“The case was registered on the complaint of a contractor who had completed blacktopping work on the Doda–Ganeka road. While 75% payment had been released, the accused officers demanded illegal gratification of Rs 45,000 for the release of the remaining amount, thereby harassing the complainant,” the statement reads.
It added that a trap was accordingly laid at Doda City, during which Raja Faisal, JE, was caught red-handed while demanding and accepting the bribe of Rs 45,000 in the presence of independent witnesses.
He was arrested on the spot, and further investigation revealed the involvement of Syed Ikhlaq Hussain Peer, AEE.
After completion of investigation, a charge sheet was filed before the Court, which, after trial, convicted both accused and awarded the above sentence, the statement added—(KNO)
A 22-year-old youth in Srinagar’s Bemina area has been booked for attempt to murder after allegedly assaulting his mother in a drug-fueled attack.
Police said the victim, a 52-year-old woman identified as Urfana, approached Police Station Batmaloo with a written complaint stating that her son, Adnan, violently attacked her. Adnan, son of Irshad Ahmad Bhat of New Colony Bemina, was accused of habitual drug abuse and aggressive behavior.
Following the complaint, Police registered FIR No. 72/2025 under Section 109 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS),
The accused is under investigation, and evidence, including medical reports, is being scrutinized.
The injured woman has been admitted to JVC Hospital Bemina, where doctors are monitoring her condition. Officials have not yet disclosed the severity of her injuries.
Police officials noted that the case highlights the growing impact of drug addiction on families in Srinagar, where instances of domestic violence linked to substance abuse are on the rise.
Authorities assured that the case is being pursued on priority and strict action will follow once the investigation progresses.
A tragic road accident in Jogi Lanker, Rainawari area of Srinagar on Wednesday claimed the life of a schoolgirl and left several others injured.
According to officials, the mishap involved an Eco vehicle carrying multiple passengers, including schoolchildren. The injured were immediately rushed to JLNM Hospital for treatment.
Doctors, however, declared one of the victims — identified as Madiha, 15, daughter of Farooq Ahmad Bhat of Gurpora — as “brought dead.”
Authorities said further details regarding the condition of the injured and the exact circumstances of the accident are being ascertained.
The State Investigation Agency on Tuesday arrested a key narcotic smuggler who was wanted in a narco-terror case and was evading arrest for the last 3 years.
In a statement, issued to news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the SIA the accused Zafraan Khan of Uri was apprehended from Kathua district and his arrest marks a severe blow to narco-terror module backed by Pakistani based terror handlers.
The statement reads that this module was involved in smuggling of narcotic substances through LoC Uri sector and subsequent transportation and sale in both the Kashmir valley and Jammu region.
“Sale proceeds of these narcotic substances were later channelised to sustain the waning terrorism in J&K. The arrest pertains to a case registered under FIR No. 13/2022, U/S 8/21,29 NDPS act 13, 17, 18, 38, 40 of UA(P) Act which pertains to the recovery of 01 kg Heroine, 07 Kg Poppy Straw and 04 Kg Poppy seeds. The charge sheet in this case has already been filed against 5 members of this module. This arrest would help SIA track forward and backward linkages in this case,” it reads.
It added that over the months, SIA Kashmir has intensified its crackdown against narco-terror networks across the Kashmir valley. “Just last week, another notorious terror handler Abdul Rashid Bhat who was absconding for more than 2 years was arrested from Pulwama. The results of these crackdown highlights the unrelenting efforts from SIA Kashmir in their quest towards dismantling the terror ecosystem,” it further reads—(KNO)
Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU) inaugurated a 5 day Induction Programme today for the newly admitted students of various academic programmes. The initiative is designed to familiarize the fresh batch with the University’s academic environment, ethos, and opportunities, and is being held simultaneously at three venues — the University Auditorium, IT Hall, and Biosciences Hall.
In his message, Vice Chancellor Prof. Jawaid Iqbal extended his greetings to the newly admitted students and welcomed them into the BGSBU fraternity. He emphasized the University’s commitment to fostering academic excellence, innovation, and values of inclusivity and service.
Mr. Abhishek Sharma, IAS, Registrar BGSBU, graced the inaugural session as the Chief Guest. Extending a warm welcome to the students, he congratulated them for securing admission to the University and said that they were now part of an institution known for its commitment to quality education and holistic development.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sharma emphasized the importance of discipline, dedication, and curiosity in a student’s life. “University life is not just about acquiring degrees but about shaping your personality, developing critical thinking, and preparing yourself for the challenges of the future,” he remarked.
Highlighting the opportunities available at BGSBU, the Registrar said, “This University provides a platform to nurture talent, whether in academics, research, innovation, or cultural and sports activities. I urge students to make the best use of every facility and support system that the University offers.”
He further encouraged the students to actively participate in all sessions of the Induction Programme, noting that the activities were carefully designed to provide them with insights into academic regulations, career development prospects, and the values of teamwork and leadership. “The friendships, experiences, and values you build here will stay with you for life. Let this journey be one of learning, exploration, and contribution,” Mr. Sharma added.
The inaugural programme was supervised by Associate Deans Dr. A. A. Shah, Dr. Shams Kamal Anjum, and Dr. Titi Xavier, who oversaw the sessions across the three designated halls. Dr. Vishal Puri, Principal COET, along with Dr. Sanjay Jamwal and Dr. Shreekar Pant, acted as the nodal officers for the smooth conduct of the inaugural event. Those who were present on the occasion included Mohd Ishaq Controller of Examination, Joint Registrar and Deputy Registrars , Heads and Coordinators of various departments and faculty members of the University.
The Induction Programme includes lectures on the journey of BGSBU, ice-breaking sessions, interaction with faculty and experts, as well as orientation about student support services. The event is being coordinated by the Admission Cell of the University.
Kashmir’s apple industry, the pride of the Valley and a major part of its economy, is now facing one of its darkest moments. Continuous rains since late August have triggered landslides and floods, shutting down the 290-kilometre Srinagar–Jammu National Highway (NH-44). This road is Kashmir’s only all-weather lifeline to markets across India. For more than two weeks, it has remained blocked for heavy vehicles, leaving thousands of apple-laden trucks stranded.
The impact has been devastating. Growers and traders are watching helplessly as their produce rots inside trucks stuck in long queues near Qazigund, Banihal, and Ramban. Viral videos on social media show juice dripping from trucks full of spoiling apples and pears, a heartbreaking sight for families who depend on this harvest for survival.
Why the Apple Industry Matters
Kashmir’s horticulture sector is the backbone of the rural economy. Apples alone make up 70–80% of India’s domestic production, generating around ₹10,000–12,000 crore every year and providing livelihoods for over 3 million people. From packaging to cold storage and transport, nearly every household in the Valley is connected to this industry in some way.
This year, the road closure has put up to 30% of the harvest at risk, especially early-season varieties like Gala and Bagogosha pears. For farmers, the losses are not just about money – they mean the difference between survival and bankruptcy.
The Scale of the Losses
Spoilage: Around 2,000–4,000 trucks carrying fruit have been stuck for days. Each truck holds 700–1,200 boxes worth ₹10–15 lakh. Current estimates suggest losses of ₹1,000–1,200 crore, which could rise to ₹6–7 billion if the situation continues.
Market Disruption: Sopore, Asia’s second-largest fruit market, suspended auctions multiple times this month. With mandis (fruit markets) closed in protest, daily outflows of 200–300 trucks have stopped. Apple prices have already fallen by ₹200–300 per box.
Ripple Effect: Cold stores, packaging units, and labourers are sitting idle. Transport costs have tripled. Many small farmers are delaying harvests or dumping produce because they cannot afford to keep waiting.
Voices from the Valley
Farmers across Kashmir are speaking of despair. Ghulam Nabi Lone, an apple grower from Shopian, said he lost more than 1,500 boxes of fruit. “We were already hit by floods and heatwaves earlier this year. Now this highway closure is pushing us to the edge,” he explained.
On social media, people are sharing videos of rotten apples being thrown away in South Kashmir. Many posts tag politicians and officials, pleading for urgent action to save the harvest.
Protests and Political Pressure
Frustration has spilled onto the streets:
Fruit Growers’ Union: The Kashmir Valley Fruit Growers and Dealers Union (KVFGDU) called for two-day strikes and mandi shutdowns across Sopore, Baramulla, Anantnag, and other towns. Their demand is simple – clear the fruit trucks first.
Political Leaders: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah blamed the Centre for failing to act quickly. PDP’s Iltija Mufti met the Lieutenant Governor, urging him to treat this as a crisis. Veteran leader M.Y. Tarigami went further, calling the situation a “death knell” for farmers and demanding crop insurance plus more transport options.
Government Response: Horticulture Minister Javed Ahmad Dar visited Qazigund on 15 September and promised limited clearance for trucks. The National Highways Authority of India says light vehicles can pass, but full restoration for heavy trucks will take longer.
Attempts at Relief
A ray of hope came when Indian Railways launched a daily parcel train from Budgam to Delhi’s Adarsh Nagar on 13 September. Two coaches are currently reserved for 18 tonnes of apples, with scope to expand for saffron and walnuts. The Lieutenant Governor called it a “faster and economical” lifeline.
However, growers argue that one train cannot replace the thousands of trucks that usually leave the Valley each day. They are asking for more trains, quick repairs to the Mughal Road, and crop insurance schemes to cover repeated disasters.
Long-Term Questions
This crisis highlights a painful reality: Kashmir’s apple economy relies almost entirely on a single road that is highly vulnerable to landslides and weather extremes. Experts warn that unless the region diversifies its transport network and builds climate resilience, similar crises will continue to strike in the coming years.
For now, farmers are being advised to hold off harvesting wherever possible by using Controlled Atmosphere (CA) stores. But for many who have already plucked their fruit, time has run out.
Conclusion
The apple crisis of 2025 is more than just an economic setback – it is a human tragedy. Families who nurtured their orchards for years are now dumping produce on the roadside. The highway blockade has turned Kashmir’s proudest industry into a symbol of helplessness. Unless urgent steps are taken to restore transport and provide relief, the Valley may face irreparable damage to its economic backbone – and the lives tied to it.
If you’ve been following international cricket lately, one name is everywhere – Sufiyan Muqeem. At just 25, this left-arm wrist spinner from Pakistan has gone from street cricket in Azad Kashmir to climbing the ICC rankings and breaking records. And with the Asia Cup 2025 underway, he’s right in the spotlight, bowling alongside the big guns and facing India’s Kuldeep Yadav in a battle fans can’t wait to see.
From Tape Ball Streets to Professional Pitches
Sufiyan was born on 15 November 1999 in Baithak Balouch, Sudhanoti District, Azad Kashmir. Like many kids there, he started with tape-ball cricket – cheap, fast, and full of flair. Hungry for better opportunities, he moved to Rawalpindi, where he entered Pakistan’s club scene.
What sets him apart? His release point is almost vertical – around “12 o’clock” – which makes the ball dip sharply and confuses batters trying to sweep. Analysts often compare him to Tabraiz Shamsi, Kuldeep Yadav, and Noor Ahmad, but with his own twist.
By 2023, he had already taken a fifer for just three runs in domestic cricket. Even after knee surgery in 2024, he came back stronger – proof of the resilience selectors love.
Breaking Records: The No. 12 Knock
April 2025, Hamilton, New Zealand: Pakistan were 174/9 chasing 293. Thanks to a concussion sub for Haris Rauf, Sufiyan walked in at No. 12 – a rare sight in ODIs.
He smashed 13 off 10 balls, including a four and a six, becoming the first player ever to score double-digits at No. 12 in ODIs. Earlier, he had bowled 2/33, including the key wicket of Daryl Mitchell.
Pakistan lost, but Sufiyan walked into cricketing folklore. Wisden called it “a slice of history.”
Record Spells and Stats That Matter
His bowling has been just as eye-catching. In December 2024, against Zimbabwe in a T20I, he ripped through the hosts with 5/3, bowling them out for 57 – Pakistan’s best ever T20I figures.
Here’s a snapshot of his international career (as of September 2025):
Format
Matches
Wickets
Best Figures
Economy
Batting Highlight
ODIs
5
8
2/33
4.50
13* at No. 12 (vs NZ, 2025)
T20Is
12
22
5/3 (vs ZIM, 2024)
5.20
5*
Overall Intl
17
30
–
–
–
He also starred in the ACC Emerging Teams Asia Cup 2023, where Pakistan A beat India A in the final, with Sufiyan taking 3/66.
On the ICC charts, he is now Pakistan’s highest-ranked T20I bowler, and the only one in the top 20.
Asia Cup 2025: Spotlight on India Clash
This month in the UAE, Sufiyan is part of Pakistan’s spin trio with Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Nawaz. The biggest headline? His battle with Kuldeep Yadav – the first time two left-arm wrist spinners face off in an India-Pakistan clash.
Kuldeep has drift and flight, Sufiyan has sharp dip and accuracy. Fans on X (formerly Twitter) are buzzing: “Sufiyan Muqeem is the x-factor Pakistan needs!”
Still, debate continues. Some argue Abrar deserves more overs, while others believe Sufiyan brings the perfect balance. Either way, he’s in the middle of the conversation.
Why Sufiyan Matters
For decades, Pakistan’s identity has been pace – from Wasim Akram to Shaheen Afridi. But with Shadab Khan struggling for form, Sufiyan represents a new spin chapter. He’s attacking, economical, and unafraid to take responsibility in crunch moments.
Off the field, he’s calm and low-profile, preferring the ball to speak. On it, he’s building a case as Pakistan’s spin future heading into the 2026 T20 World Cup.
Final Word
From the streets of Azad Kashmir to global stages, Sufiyan Muqeem’s rise is a story of talent, hard work, and resilience. Operation Asia Cup 2025 may be his biggest test yet, but one thing is certain – cricket has found another spinner who can turn not just the ball, but matches themselves.
In the early hours of September 13, 2025, the medical fraternity in Jammu and Kashmir mourned the loss of one of its most esteemed figures: Prof. Syed Ashaq Hussain Naqshbandi. The former Principal and Dean of Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, and Ex-Head of the Department of Surgery at SMHS Hospital, succumbed to a prolonged illness, marking the end of an era for Kashmiri medicine. His passing has elicited an outpouring of tributes from colleagues, students, and the community, underscoring his indelible contributions to healthcare, education, and human compassion.
A Distinguished Career in Medicine and Leadership
Prof. Naqshbandi was a towering presence in Kashmir’s medical landscape, renowned for his surgical expertise and administrative acumen. As Principal of GMC Srinagar—one of the region’s premier medical institutions—he spearheaded initiatives that elevated standards in medical education and patient care during a tumultuous period in the Valley. His tenure as Dean further solidified his role in shaping the next generation of doctors, emphasizing ethical practice and resilience in the face of adversity.
Prior to his leadership roles, Prof. Naqshbandi served as Head of the Department of Surgery at Shri Maharaja Hari Singh (SMHS) Hospital in Srinagar, where he performed countless life-saving procedures and mentored aspiring surgeons. His work extended beyond the operating theater; he was a vocal advocate for accessible healthcare in rural and conflict-affected areas, often bridging gaps between policy and practice. Colleagues remember him as a meticulous clinician whose calm demeanor under pressure saved innumerable lives, particularly during emergencies exacerbated by regional unrest.
Born into a respected family in Kashmir, Prof. Naqshbandi’s journey in medicine was marked by dedication and humility. The “Naqshbandi” suffix reflects his spiritual lineage tied to the Naqshbandi Sufi order, a tradition of scholarly and ethical pursuit that likely influenced his holistic approach to healing—treating not just the body, but the spirit as well.
The News of His Passing: A Sudden Void
Family sources confirmed that Prof. Naqshbandi passed away peacefully after battling illness for an extended period. The news broke on the morning of September 13, 2025, prompting immediate condolences across social media and news outlets in Kashmir. His Namaz-e-Janaza (funeral prayer) was scheduled for 11:00 AM that day at the historic graveyard of Naqashband Sahib Shrine in Srinagar, a poignant location symbolizing his deep-rooted connection to the region’s cultural and spiritual heritage.
Local media outlets, including Greater Kashmir, Kashmir Horizon, and Glacier Times, were quick to report the loss, highlighting his legacy as a “noble human being” and “accomplished surgeon.” On X (formerly Twitter), tributes poured in from accounts like @TahirPeerzada_, who described him as “not only an accomplished surgeon but also a noble human being,” praying for his eternal peace in Jannah. Other posts from @thenawakadal and @indepth_news echoed the sentiment, sharing photos and urging the community to recite Sura-e-Fatiha for the departed soul.
Tributes and Legacy: Echoes from the Community
The outpouring of grief reflects the profound impact Prof. Naqshbandi had on those around him. Students who trained under him recall his mentorship as transformative, instilling values of empathy and precision. “He was a father figure to us all,” one former resident shared in a social media post, crediting him for navigating the challenges of medical training in Kashmir.
His contributions to GMC Srinagar were particularly notable during his principalship, where he focused on infrastructure upgrades, faculty development, and integrating modern surgical techniques into the curriculum. Even in retirement, he remained active in advisory roles, offering guidance on public health initiatives amid ongoing regional health crises.
Beyond academia, Prof. Naqshbandi’s compassion shone through in his community service. He was known for volunteering in free medical camps and supporting underprivileged patients, embodying the Sufi principles of service (khidmat). His passing comes at a time when Kashmir’s healthcare system continues to grapple with resource constraints, making his absence all the more keenly felt.
A Call to Honor His Memory
As Srinagar bids farewell to Prof. Syed Ashaq Hussain Naqshbandi, the medical community vows to carry forward his vision of compassionate, equitable healthcare. Institutions like GMC Srinagar have yet to issue an official statement, but informal gatherings at the college and SMHS Hospital are planned to honor his life.
In a region often defined by resilience, Prof. Naqshbandi’s story is one of quiet strength and unwavering commitment. May his legacy inspire future generations of healers. The community is encouraged to offer prayers and support his family during this time of sorrow. Allah SWT grant him the highest ranks in Jannah and provide sabr (patience) to his loved ones.
