Missing Since 8 Days, Umer Yaseen Shah Found Dead inside a Thar Vehicle Near Gandool, Ramban

A man, hailing from Central Kashmir’s Nowgam area of Srinagar, was found dead inside a Thar vehicle near Gadool, Ramban, on Monday.

An official told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the man from Srinagar, who had reportedly been missing since December 22, was found dead inside a Thar vehicle near Gandool, Ramban.

He said the body was spotted this afternoon, and police have arrived at the scene and took the body into their custody.He was later identified as Umer Yaseen Shah, a resident of Railway Colony, Nowgam, Srinagar.Meanwhile, police have taken cognizance of the incident—(KNO)

J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Praises Swift Snowfall Response by Power and Roads Departments

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday commended the swift response of government departments in dealing with the disruptions caused by recent heavy snowfall in the valley.

Highlighting the efforts of the Power Development Department (PDD), Abdullah noted their remarkable work in restoring electricity after outages.

In a post on X, he wrote, The Power Department did a remarkable job dealing with the outages caused by the recent snowfall in the valley. These numbers tell the complete story. The supply of electricity dipped drastically between the hours of 4 AM & 10 AM as the system was hit by the snow. From 10 AM the demand starts recovering as the system was brought back online & the damage repaired.

The Chief Minister gave a special mention to the Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL), saying, “Kudos to @kpdclofficial for their work on the ground.”

Abdullah also applauded the Publics Works Department (Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department) for their efficiency in clearing snow-covered roads and lanes. “They moved quickly to open the main roads and then, as per the schedule of priority, continued their efforts. Today the focus has been on smaller roads and inner lanes,” he said.

The timely response by both departments has been widely appreciated, ensuring minimal disruption to daily life in the valley despite challenging weather conditions.

A Landmark Judgement in Kashmir: Jammu Kashmir High Court Upholds Muslim Daughter’s Inheritance Rights in Case of Mst Mukhti

Justice Koul

Introduction

In a historic decision, the High Court of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh has brought much-needed attention to the issue of women’s inheritance rights in Kashmiri society. Justice Vinod Chatterji Koul’s recent ruling in favour of a Muslim woman’s descendants highlights the gap between Islamic law and societal practices in the region. The case sheds light on cultural biases that continue to deny women their lawful inheritance, despite clear guidelines in the Quran.

The Case of Mst Mukhti

The case centred around Mst Mukhti, a Muslim woman who sought her rightful inheritance from her father’s property in Zainakote, Srinagar. Despite a 1996 High Court judgement granting her one-third of the property, Mukhti and her heirs faced decades of resistance from administrative bodies and her own family.

Administrative and Judicial Failures

Mukhti’s battle for justice was prolonged by contradictory administrative orders that ignored the court’s decision. Justice Koul’s recent ruling quashed these orders and directed the Revenue Department to enforce the 1996 judgement within three months, highlighting the systemic failures in upholding women’s inheritance rights.

Islamic Law on Inheritance

Islamic law, as outlined in Surah An-Nisa, provides a clear and equitable system for inheritance. Daughters are entitled to a share of their parents’ property, albeit half that of sons. This system addresses historical injustices and ensures financial security for women.

Cultural Biases in Kashmiri Society

Despite being a Muslim-majority region, many in Kashmir fail to follow these Quranic guidelines. Justice Koul pointed out the selective adherence to Islamic practices, where rituals are observed but inheritance laws are often ignored. This cultural bias perpetuates inequality and undermines both religious principles and legal systems.

Mukhti’s Struggle

Mukhti’s brother resisted her claim, citing customary practices that favoured male heirs. Such resistance not only violated Islamic teachings but also led to decades-long legal battles, eroding familial trust and unity.

The Court’s Stand

The court’s judgement declared the administrative orders denying Mukhti’s heirs their rights as illegal and void. Justice Koul emphasised the need for authorities to uphold both constitutional and religious principles, ensuring timely justice for women.

Broader Implications

This ruling is a wake-up call for Kashmiri society to introspect and align its practices with Islamic teachings. Ignoring Quranic guidelines on inheritance perpetuates injustice and creates unnecessary societal discord.

Steps Towards Change

The judgement’s directive to implement the order within three months is a significant step towards delivering justice. It sends a strong message that deviation from Islamic law will not be tolerated, encouraging the community to abandon discriminatory customs.

A Call for Equality

Mukhti’s case highlights the need for broader societal change. By embracing the principles of equality and justice enshrined in Islamic law, Kashmiri Muslims can move towards a more harmonious and just society.

Conclusion

Justice Koul’s landmark ruling underscores the importance of enforcing women’s inheritance rights under Islamic law. It serves as a reminder that adherence to these principles is not optional. By addressing cultural and procedural barriers, the community can ensure justice, equality, and unity for future generations.

Police Attaches Properties of Notorious Drug Peddler Ishrat Ahmad Mir worth lakhs in Adipora Sopore under the NDPS Act

ishrat ahmad mir

In a significant move to combat the menace of drug trafficking and to eradicate the menace of drugs from the society, Sopore police on Friday has attached property of notorious drug peddler worth lacs in Sopore.

A Spokesperson said, Police attached a two stories residential house valued at approximately ₹17,00,000/- located at Adipora Sopore, under the NDPS Act 1985.

The attached property, two storey residential house belongs to one notorious drug peddler namely Ishrat Ahmad Mir S/O Abdul Kabir Mir R/O Adipora Sopore.

The said property was acquired by the subject from the proceeds of narcotics. The inquiry revealed that the said immovable property was raised/ used for Illicit Trafficking by the drug peddler.

By targeting and freezing the illegal assets of drug peddlers/smugglers involved in the organized illegal narco trade, Sopore Police has dealt a severe blow to their criminal activities. Depriving these criminals of the proceeds derived from drug trafficking is an essential step in curbing their influence and crippling the drug trade in the valley.

General public have appreciated the action taken by sopore police in safeguarding them from the devastating effects of drug abuse and trafficking.

MLA Nizamuddin Bhat Seeks Highway Status for Sumbal-Bandipora-Gurez Road

Nizam-ud-Din Bhat

MLA Bandipora Nizamuddin Bhat has written to chief minister Omar Abdullah to seek highway status to Sumbal-Bandipora-Gurez road, the main connectivity to the district with Srinagar and other parts of Jammu and Kashmir.

In the letter, Bhat has sought the intervention of Omar Abdullah to have this “long pending demand duly considered for early redressal”.

He stated that Bandipora the main connectivity has not been accorded highway status from Sumbal to Gurez, despite its strategic, economic, and accessibility considerations.

Bhat also said that all three legislators from Bandipora raised the issue in a joint review meeting of the district with authorities concerned recently.

Demand for granting highway status to Sumbal-Bandipora-Gurez road has been getting louder with all three legislators from Bandipora including Congress leader Nizamuddin Bhat, and National Conference legislators Nazir Ahmad Gurezi, and Hilal Akbar Lone raising the issue with the relevant authorities.

Nizamuddin Bhat also raised the issue in the first session of the Jammu and Kashmir assembly in November this year, seeking intervention of the house to get this demand redressed at an earliest.

Death Toll from Mystery Illness in Rajouri District Rises to Nine, Probe Ordered

Dead body

The number of deaths from an Mystery illness in Rajouri district has risen to nine, with a woman breathing her last today due to the mysterious disease, prompting authorities to order a probe to ascertain the cause of her death.

Reports said the woman, a resident of Badhaal village, died after sudden medical complications with initial symptoms not resembling with earlier deaths.They said the district administration has ordered an immediate probe to ascertain the cause of her death.

The woman had earlier lost her two sons and a daughter to the ‘mystery’ illness.A Biosafety level 3 (BSL-3) mobile laboratory has been dispatched to Rajouri to expedite testing and identify the illness, officials said.

All India Professionals’ Congress Appoints Tanveer Lone as Head of Sports vertical for Jammu and Kashmir

Congress Appoints Tanveer Lone

The All India Professionals’ Congress (AIPC) announces the appointment of Tanveer Lone as the head of the Sports vertical for Jammu and Kashmir. This significant appointment reaffirms AIPC’s commitment to enhancing leadership and professional engagement in the UT .

Tanveer Lone is a highly motivated and passionate individual , a postgraduate in Economics and Public Administration. Lone, who hails from Tangmarg, a popular tourist destination, has a proven track record of mentoring many young people in sports and teaching snowboarding to over 100 underprivileged children.

AIPC Chairman Praveen Chakravarty & Smit Singh AIPC National Sports vertical Head made the appointment, reflecting AIPC’s dedication to empowering professionals and ensuring impactful leadership across diverse sectors. Sanjay Sapru, J&K head of AIPC, expressed gratitude to Chairman Praveen Chakravarty & Smit Singh for the appointment.

“I’m deeply thankful for recognizing the potential of our professionals in Jammu and Kashmir and for this strategic appointment,” said Sanjay Sapru. “Tanveer Lone brings immense expertise and dedication, driving AIPC’s vision forward and strengthening our professional community in the important Sports vertical.”

This development aligns with AIPC’s expansion nationwide, aiming to build a robust network of skilled individuals contributing to public discourse and policy. Under Chairman Praveen Chakravarty’s guidance, AIPC remains a steadfast platform for professionals to engage meaningfully in public life and policy-making processes.

The newly appointed head is expected to take up his role with immediate effect, spearheading initiatives within the Sports vertical to create impactful change in Jammu Kashmir . The All India Professionals’ Congress reaffirms its dedication to supporting professionals and fostering leadership that contributes to societal growth and development.

Longest Surviving Top Hizb Commander Farooq Nali Along with 4 Militants killed in Kadder Kulgam Encounter 

Kadder area

In a major breakthrough for security forces, Top Hizb Commander Farooq Nali was killed along with other four terrorists in South Kashmir’s Kulgam district on Thursday.

A top police officer said that Farooq Nali was most wanted militant and was one of the longest surviving militant in Valley has been killed in a gunfight with police and security forces.

Farooq Nali was involved in many terror related incidents. He was behind many attacks on civilians as well on security forces, the officer said.His death is a big achievement for police and security forces, the officer added.Earlier, during firefight, five militants were killed as well two army soldiers were injured.(GNS)

Deputy Commissioner Kupwara Ayushi Sudan Hands-Over Transition Orders to 27 Grade III Teachers

Ayushi Sudan

In a significant event organized at the District Complex Kupwara, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) Kupwara, Ayushi Sudan today distributed transition orders in favour of 27 teachers who were promoted from Grade III to Grade II.

The ceremony marked a step forward in enhancing the quality of education across the district.

The transition of these teachers, who have successfully completed the required qualifications, aligns with the district’s efforts to ensure a robust and progressive educational system aimed at benefiting the student community.

Speaking on the occasion, the DC hailed the contribution of teachers in district Kupwara. She emphasised the critical role of teachers in bridging learning gaps and urged the teaching fraternity to work diligently towards academic excellence.

CEO Kupwara reiterated the administration’s commitment to supporting educators and called upon them to uphold their responsibilities with dedication and sincerity.

The initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the educational landscape of Kupwara, fostering better learning outcomes and a brighter future for the younger generation.

Arms, Narcotics Recovered in Amrohi area of Tangdhar Sector North Kashmir:  Army

indian army

Security forces on Wednesday claimed to have recovered arms, ammunition, and narcotics in Amrohi area of Tangdhar Sector in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district.

In a post on X, Army’s Chinar Corps, said that a joint search operation was launched in the area following specific intelligence inputs.

The Army said that during search, four pistols, six pistol magazines, 4 kg narcotics and other war-like stores have been recovered.

“Chinar Corps remains steadfast in its commitment to keep Kashmir terror-free,” it said—(KNO)

Double-Storey Residential House Gutted in Dardihaji Rajwar Handwara

J&K Additional Resident Commissioner Anil Sharma Felicitates Gold Medalists of 62nd National Roller Skating Championship

Drug Peddler Nisar Ahmad Kambay Arrested in Ganderbal; Contraband Substance Recovered

Police Seizes Vehicle Hyundai Venue of Notorious Drug Peddler Javeed Ahmad Sofi worth Rs 10.5 lacs in Handwara

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Likely to Meet Amit Shah Tomorrow Over Statehood Restoration Issue

At SVMM Charitable Hospital Ambphalla, Jammu Chief Minister Omar Abdullah inaugurates MRI, CT Scan Center

MRI, CT Scan Center

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today inaugurated the MRI and CT Scan Center at Swami Vivekananda Medical Mission (SVMM) Charitable Hospital in Ambphalla, Jammu.

Member of Legislative Assembly (Udhampur East) Pawan Gupta, President SVMM Charitable Hospital Anil Gupta, Patron Dr. Subash Gupta, President Jammu Chamber of Commerce & Industry Arun Gupta, along with members of the hospital’s managing committee, faculty, staff, and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.

Speaking at the launch, the Chief Minister commended the hospital for its exceptional services to the people.He remarked that institutions like SVMM Charitable Hospital exemplify the spirit of service, providing affordable and quality healthcare.“The hospital operates like a private institution in terms of its services but ensures affordability, charging even lower than government hospitals,” Omar Abdullah said.

Reflecting on the hospital’s journey, the Chief Minister acknowledged its humble beginnings as a single-room dispensary and praised its evolution into a reputable healthcare institution. “This transformation is truly remarkable and worthy of admiration,” he added.

The Chief Minister also lauded the hospital’s neo-natal section, noting with satisfaction that the recovery rate for infants in the ICU stands at an impressive 100 percent.“This achievement is reassuring not only for the hospital but also for the parents whose children are being treated here,” he said.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister took a round of the hospital, inspecting various sections, and interacted with faculty members and patients alike to understand their experiences and concerns.Emphasizing the importance of humanitarian service, Omar Abdullah remarked, “To serve God, we must serve humanity.”

The Chief Minister reiterated his government’s support for the hospital, promising assistance from his administration and cabinet colleagues to further strengthen its healthcare initiatives.

Double-Storey Residential House Gutted in Dardihaji Rajwar Handwara

Fire Erupts in Bohlagpora

A double-storey residential house was gutted in Dardihaji, Rajwar area of north Kashmir’s Kupwara district on Monday.

The Fire & Emergency Department, Police, and Army worked to control the fire but failed to control the raging flames and with the result the house turned into ashes.Belongings worth lakhs of rupees were gutted but no loss of life or injuries were reported.

Residents were furious, highlighting that despite hundreds of houses being gutted in Rajwar over the years, the administration and the government had failed to establish a Fire and Emergency Service station in the nearby Zachaldara.

They said that this negligence continues to endanger lives and property in the region. The house belonged to Muhammad Yasin Pir of Dardhaji.

Police Attaches Motor Cycle Used in Terrorist Activities Under UAPA in Handwara

Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

Acting firmly against terrorism, Police in Handwara have attached a motor cycle bearing registration number JK05L-7265 under the provisions of Section 25 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) 1967.

Following administrative approval, the order for attachment was issued in connection with case FIR No. 198/2024 of Police Station Handwara registered under Sections 7/25 IA Act, 13, 23, 18, 38, 39 of UAPA 1967, and Section 4 of the Explosives Act.

During the investigation, it was established that the said motor cycle was used for carrying out terrorist activities and represents proceeds of terrorism.

This decisive action underscores Police’s commitment to disrupt terror networks and ensure the safety and security of the region.

In A Decade 9070 Lives Lost in Road Accidents in J&K ,18-46 Age Group Most Affected,9% Deaths Involve Teens: GoI

accident

Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed 9,070 fatalities in road accidents in a decade with the people aged between 18-45 years most affected.

This data was revealed by Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Jairam Gadkari in Parliament as part of a nationwide review of road safety in response to a query.

He said that the fatalities were most prominent in the age group of 18-45 years, which accounted for nearly 60% of the deaths during the period.

He said that in the age group of 14-17 years, around 7% of fatalities were recorded which depicts involvement of underage and inexperienced drivers. For persons aged above 45, approximately 25% of the deaths occurred which shows the need for heightened safety awareness across all age brackets.

The Minister said that two-wheelers accounted for the highest number of fatalities in J&K, followed by light motor vehicles such as cars and SUVs with heavy vehicles like trucks and buses also contributed significantly. Pedestrians and cyclists were not spared, with many losing their lives due to inadequate infrastructure and driver negligence.

He also said that the majority of accidents occurred during daylight hours, contrary to the assumption that night driving is more dangerous which indicates the need for constant vigilance and safer driving practices throughout the day.

The Minister said that the government is committed to reduce road accident fatalities by 50% by 2030, aligning with global commitments under the Stockholm Declaration on Road Safety.

He said that the “4 Es” strategy—Education, Engineering, Enforcement, and Emergency care is the framework for addressing these challenges in J&K.

He further said that the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has initiated accident-prone area audits, installation of safety signages, and awareness campaigns targeting high-risk groups. Stricter enforcement of the Motor Vehicles Act, 2019, is also being implemented to ensure better compliance with road safety regulations.

The Minister said that J&K’s difficult terrains and rapidly increasing vehicle numbers exacerbate road safety risks. Collaboration with local authorities, enhanced infrastructure, and public participation are important to address these issues, he said.

Labourer Mohd Jamal Mir Dies After Water Tank Falls on Him in Srinagar

Police Solves Burglary Case in Seelo Sopore, Stolen Property Recovered

Dr Karan Singh Congratulates CM Omar Abdullah for Deciding to Reintroduce ‘Darbar Move’

IGP Traffic M. Suleman Choudhary Assesses Traffic Scenario; Ongoing Construction Works in District Samba, Kathua

Minister Sakeena Itoo Emphasizes Preservation of Kashmiri Language and Culture at Kashmir University’s ‘Sonzal’ Youth Festival

Abdul Hameed Sofi Dies at Government Medical College Handwara, Family Alleges Medical Negligence

dead

A 37-year-old man, Abdul Hameed Sofi, a resident of Arampora, Kupwara, tragically passed away at Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara on Tuesday morning while as the family has alleged medical negligence.

Sofi, a father of three, was admitted to the hospital earlier in the day, complaining of arm pain and discomfort.Family members, according to the news agency—KNO said that doctors initially described his condition as stable after conducting preliminary tests. However, the patient later died at the hospital.

Relatives alleged that a staff member, who they claimed was a compounder rather than a doctor, dismissed the patient’s condition as a mere act of drama. They also accused the hospital staff of withholding an ECG report that could shed light on the events, leading to Sofi’s death.

“There was no qualified doctor present during the critical moments. If there were none available, they should have asked us to wait,” a family member stated, adding that CCTV footage from the hospital could verify their claims.

The hospital authorities, however, refuted the allegations. Medical Superintendent Dr. Aijaz Ahmed Bhat clarified that Sofi was admitted at 6:45 am with chest discomfort and was immediately attended by a doctor on duty. An ECG test was conducted, which reportedly appeared normal, and the patient was kept under observation.

“After administering an injection and a tablet, the patient suddenly collapsed. Despite resuscitation efforts, he could not be revived,” Dr. Aijaz explained, adding that further tests, including TropT, were negative.

The allegations of mishandling and unavailability of doctors were investigated by the police and local Tehsildar. Preliminary findings based on CCTV footage suggested that the patient was attended by both doctors and paramedical staff, dismissing claims of negligence.

However, the hospital administration has promised a thorough investigation. “A high-level committee will be formed to probe the family’s allegations, and a detailed report will be submitted within two to three days,” Dr. Aijaz assured—(KNO)

Major Reshuffle in Civil Administration, 22 JKAS officers transferred

Cheif Minister Omar Abdullah Vows Support for Local Industries at JCCI Event in Jammu

Power Development Department Proposes Extra Power to Reduce Distress, unscheduled power cuts

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Launches 3rd Edition of “Kartavya Marg” Magazine at Raj Bhawan

Srinagar Police Seeks Help of General Public to identify the Vehicle Involved in Theft Case

J&K CM Omar Abdullah Laid e-Foundation Stones For Several Projects in SKIMS at 42nd Annual Day Celebrations

Omar Abdullah today addressed the 42nd Annual Day celebrations of the Sher-i-Kashmir

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today addressed the 42nd Annual Day celebrations of the Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura, held in the Institute’s auditorium.

On the occasion, the Chief Minister e-inaugurated and laid e-foundation stones for several projects, highlighting the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare infrastructure.Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister underscored the indispensable role SKIMS has played in enhancing the healthcare system of Jammu and Kashmir.

He praised the Institute for its invaluable services and its readiness to respond in times of exigency.He further noted that SKIMS provides technologically advanced and evidence-based healthcare services to the general public.

Chief Minister congratulated SKIMS administration, faculty, and staff for their exemplary performance, particularly during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic and other crises. Reflecting on the vision of Sher-i-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah, the Chief Minister remarked that SKIMS was founded to offer advanced healthcare facilities within J&K, reducing the need for patients to seek treatment outside the region.

He also emphasized the importance of medical tourism, expressing hope for infrastructure upgrade around SKIMS to make this vision a reality.Chief Minister called for minimizing referrals to SKIMS by strengthening sub-district and district hospitals, thereby reducing the pressure on the Institute.

He expressed concern about administrative interference undermining SKIMS’ functioning and pledged to restore its autonomy on a priority basis.

To further strengthen the Institute, the Chief Minister assured full government support to ensure patients receive top-quality healthcare. During the event, the Chief Minister e-inaugurated multiple facilities, including the Attendants Inn with washroom facilities at the emergency block, the Attendants Inn at the Maternity Hospital, the 4DCT Simulator at Radiation Oncology, and the Daycare Ward.

He also laid e-foundation stones for the Sports Ground, Transport Yard, and construction of more space for attendants.Additionally, the Chief Minister inaugurated the Emergency Operation Theatre Block and commissioned the SKIMS Medical University Complex, further enhancing emergency and educational facilities.

Earlier, the Chief Minister inspected an exhibition organized by SKIMS, which showcased innovative contributions and success stories from various departments of the Institute.

On the occasion, he also released the Annual Report of SKIMS, highlighting the Institute’s significant achievements and activities. Minister of Health & Medical Education, Sakina Masood Itoo, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing Sher-i-Kashmir’s vision of establishing SKIMS as a world-class medical facility for the people of J&K.

Director SKIMS, Prof. Mohammad Ashraf Ganai, provided a comprehensive overview of the Institute’s contributions to public healthcare in his speech.Other dignitaries present at the event included Minister of Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs Satish Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, former J&K Chief Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah and several MLA’s.

The event was also attended by Secretary Health & Medical Education Dr. Syed Abid Rashid Shah, senior faculty members, former directors, and other staff members of SKIMS.

The Diverging Fates of Childhood Friends: Vinod Kambli and Sachin Tendulkar

Police Station Chanapora Seizes Two vehicles of Drug Peddlers in Srinagar

PDP workers’ Meet Held At Chattergul B Kangan Constituency in District Ganderbal

Islamic University of Science and Technology Hosts Industry Connect Program on Aquaculture and Food Processing

I don’t Find Any Difference Between India and Bangladesh: Mehbooba Mufti

waheed

PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday termed the November 24 Sambhal incident unfortunate and sought to compare the situation of minorities in India with Bangladesh.

The former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir expressed concern over the recent claims on mosques and shrines.

“…Today, I am afraid that the situation which was during 1947, we are being taken towards that direction. When the youth talk of jobs, they don’t get it. We don’t have good hospitals, education…They are not improving the condition of roads but are trying to demolish the mosque in search of a temple. The Sambhal incident is very unfortunate. Some were working in shops and were shot…,” Mufti told reporters in Jammu here.

While commenting on the controversy surrounding the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, Mufti said, “Ajmer Sharif Dargah where people from all religions offer prayers is the biggest example of brotherhood. Now they are also trying to dig into it to search for a temple.”

Regarding the alleged atrocities on Hindus in Bangladesh, Mufti said, “In Bangladesh, atrocities are being committed on Hindus. If atrocities will be committed on minorities in India also, then what is the difference between India and Bangladesh?… I don’t find any difference between India and Bangladesh.”

The situation in Bangladesh has been marked by increasing violence against minority communities, with temples, being destroyed after the arrest of a former priest Chinmoy Krishna Das.

The international community has expressed concern over the situation, with India’s Ministry of External Affairs stating that it is “concerned” about the safety and security of Hindus and other minority groups in Bangladesh.

Regarding the Sambhal incident in Uttar Pradesh, a mob clashed with the police during a survey of a Mughal-era mosque under the direction of the court.

Four people were killed and dozens, including policemen and officials, were injured in the violence that ensued hours after the survey. (ANI)

For Better Transport System Srinagar Wins SKOCH Award

SKUAST-K and GCW Srinagar Conduct Entrepreneurship Programs to Inspire Next-Gen Entrepreneurs

Mehbooba Mufti Supports Protesters Against Proposed Vaishno Devi Ropeway Project, Urges Review to Protect Local Livelihoods

Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat with District Administration Reaches out to Fire Victims of Danawari Chattabal

₹3,300-Crore Highway to Connect Rajouri and Baramulla: Construction to Begin Soon

Highway

The construction of a major ₹3,300-crore highway, spanning 300 kilometres, connecting Rajouri with Baramulla in north Kashmir, is set to commence soon. The project has been handed over to the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) for implementation.

This ambitious project, designated as National Highway 701A, aims to improve connectivity across Jammu and Kashmir by linking Rajouri and Poonch districts in Jammu with Baramulla in the Kashmir Valley. The highway will serve as an alternative to the Jammu-Srinagar highway, easing traffic congestion and reducing travel time significantly.

Detailed Project Plans

According to details shared by the Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has tasked its regional office in Jammu to engage a consultant for Project Management Consultancy (PMC). This will include a feasibility study, preparation of a Detailed Project Report (DPR), pre-construction services, and overseeing the supervision of the two-lane highway with paved shoulders.

The highway will traverse key locations such as Shopian, Kellar, Pakherpora, Yousmarg, Doodhpathri, and Magam. The route, strategically planned to connect important areas, is expected to enhance accessibility for travellers and boost the region’s tourism potential.

Route Details and Features

The new highway will stretch from NH-1 near Narbal and connect prominent destinations, including Magam, Doodhpathri, Yousmarg, Pakherpora, Kellar, Shopian, and Bafliaz, before terminating at NH-144A near Surankote in Poonch. A significant portion of the highway, spanning 159 kilometres, will pass through scenic locations like Yousmarg and Doodhpathri in upper Budgam.

The road will be a four-lane highway with a total width of around 70 feet. It will follow the existing Mughal Road alignment in some sections, passing through areas such as Zawoora, Mushwara, Shadimarg, Drabgam, Aglar, and Charipora, among others.

Economic and Social Impact

The ₹3,300-crore project is expected to bring significant benefits to the region. Apart from reducing travel time, the highway will bolster economic activities by facilitating smoother transport of goods and services. It is also expected to attract tourists to lesser-known destinations like Yousmarg, Doodhpathri, and Pakherpora, providing a boost to the local economy.

This alternative route will bypass the often-congested Jammu-Srinagar highway, offering a more efficient option for travellers. Additionally, the project will improve connectivity for remote areas, fostering development and integration within the region.

Timeline and Maintenance

The highway is slated to be completed within two years, with a maintenance period of five years to ensure its quality and durability. The BRO, renowned for its expertise in constructing infrastructure in challenging terrains, has been entrusted with the project’s execution.

Conclusion

The ₹3,300-crore highway project connecting Rajouri and Baramulla marks a significant step towards enhancing connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir. By bridging critical regions and improving accessibility, the highway promises to be a game-changer for the state’s development and tourism. Construction is expected to begin soon, with high hopes for its timely completion and long-term benefits to the region.

Driver Naseer Ahmad Kaali Sentenced to 2 Years in jail for Reckless Driving in 2014 for Uri Accident

Satish Sharma Transport Minister Takes Cognizance upon Ongoing Restrictions on JKRTC Buses

Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) Sends Text Messages to Domestic Consumers for Adopting Solar Rooftop Scheme

Yasin Malik Abduction and Murder Case: “Fully Functional Court in Jail with video-conferencing facilities,” Solicitor General informs SC

Supreme Court

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta on Thursday informed the Supreme Court that a fully functional court exists in the Tihar jail with all the facilities of video conferencing if required.

This comes after the Supreme Court suggested on November 21 to explore setting up a makeshift courtroom in jail for conducting a trial against terror convict Yasin Malik in two cases related to abduction and murder.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta informed the bench of justices Abhay S. Oka and Augustine George Masih that a “fully functional court exists in the jail with all the facilities of video conferencing if required and in the past proceedings have taken place there.”

SG Mehta also apprised the top court that it has filed two fresh applications, one for the modification and the other for the transfer of the matter.

The top court issued notice to the concerned respondents on the applications and also made the other co-accused party in the case. The top court listed the matter in December for further hearing.

The court observation came when it was hearing the Central Bureau of Investigation’s (CBI) plea against the Jammu court’s order calling for Malik’s physical presence in trial proceedings.

Solicitor General Tushar Mehta had said that the central agency does not wish to take Malik, who is at present at Tihar Jail in Delhi, to Jammu and Kashmir due to security reasons. He also presented a photograph where Malik was seen sharing dias with Hafiz Saeed and said he is not an ordinary criminal.

The top court had permitted the CBI to implead all the accused in the case as respondents in the petition and posted the matter for hearing next week.

CBI has filed an appeal against the order of Additional Sessions Judge Jammu (TADA/POTA) dated September 20 and September 21, issuing a production warrant against him in two different cases.

Jammu Court has sought Malik’s physical appearance for cross-examination of witnesses in relation to the killing of four IAF personnel and abduction of Rubaiya Sayeed, daughter of Mufti Muhammad Sayeed in 1989. However, the top court in the last hearing stayed Jammu’s court order.

Earlier, Solicitor General Tushar Mehta expressed his concern over Yasin Malik’s presence in the Supreme Court and wrote a letter to the Home Secretary stating that Yasin Malik’s presence in the Supreme Court was a serious security lapse raising apprehension that he could have escaped, forcibly taken away or could have been killed.

In the letter, it was mentioned about an order passed by the Ministry of Home Affairs with regard to the said Yasin Malik under section 268 Criminal Code of Procedure which prevents the jail authorities to bring the said convict out of the jail premises for security reasons. (ANI)

Kashmir’s Wetlands: The Hidden Paradise We’re Losing Fast!

Wildlife Department Mandates Permission for Access to Kashmir Wetland

Jammu & Kashmir NCC Cadets Excel in Para Basic Course at Army Airborne Training School (AATS) in Agra

Police Arrests Drug Peddler Altaf Ahmad Shah in Srinagar, Psychotropic Substance Recovered

NIA to Request High Court to Designate Power of MP/MLA court to its court for Hearing MP Er Rashid case

Update of Sinthan Top: Anantnag to Kishtwar Road Remains closed After overnight snowfall

SinthanTop_Kishtwar_

Sinthan top road connecting the Anantnag with Kishtwar National Highway (NH244) remained closed for vehicular traffic movement today after overnight snowfall.

Officials told GNS that due to overnight snowfall at Sinthanpass, vehicular traffic was stopped on Anantnag-Sinthan-Kishtwar highway (NH244).

However, officials said that snow clearance is underway and subject to fair weather conditions traffic movement will resume soon.(GNS)

Traffic Police Issues Advisory for Motorists in Rural Kashmir amid Snowfall 

Sajad Lone Criticises NC and Congress for Misleading J&K Over Article 370 Resolution

Intensive Traffic Enforcement Drive in Kashmir: 2,338 Vehicles Checked, ₹7.98 Lakh Fines Imposed

SKUAST-K Celebrates Graduation, Fresher’s Day,University inspiring Visionary Leaders Equipped to Face Global Challenges: Prof mNazir Ahmad Ganai Vice Chancellor

Verified by MonsterInsights