Senior Advocate Bashir Ahmad Rather Passes Away in Srinagar, Legal Fraternity Mourns

Advocate Bashir Ahmad

Senior Advocate Bashir Ahmad Rather of Monnavarabad, Srinagar, passed away on Saturday, 24 January 2026, after suffering a massive heart stroke while preparing for court proceedings.

Bashir Sahab had a distinguished legal career spanning more than 55 years at the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir. He was a highly respected member of the legal fraternity and played an active role in the Bar Association throughout his career. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

His passing has caused deep sorrow among lawyers at the High Court, who expressed heartfelt grief and extended sympathy to the bereaved family. Colleagues remembered him as a dedicated, principled and humble advocate who served the profession with commitment and dignity.

The Rasmi Chahrum ceremony will be held on 28 January 2026. A collective prayers meeting is scheduled at 10:30 am at his ancestral graveyard in Monnavarabad, Srinagar.

May Allah forgive him and grant him the highest place in Jannah. Heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

With prayers,
GN Shsheen, Advocate

Pahalgam Railway Line Is About Future, Not Fear—Connectivity Is Development

Srinagar Police Activate 24×7 Emergency Helplines Amid Bad Weather, Ask People to Stay Alert

Police Helpline

Amid ongoing bad weather and worrying forecasts, Srinagar Police on Friday set up special emergency helpline services to protect the safety and well-being of the public.

The police said the helplines will work round the clock to offer quick help and timely response during any emergency or distress situation. Dedicated contact numbers have been made active across the entire Srinagar district so that people can reach police officials without delay. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Residents can contact the Police Control Room Srinagar through landline numbers 0194-2477567 and 0194-2477568, or mobile numbers 9596222550 and 9596222551. Senior police officers, including SSP, SPs, DySPs, SDPOs, SHOs, and In-Charge Police Posts, are also available on their respective mobile numbers for immediate assistance.

Srinagar Police has appealed to citizens to stay cautious, follow all safety advisories, and avoid unnecessary travel during the harsh weather period. People are advised to seek help immediately if they face any emergency.

The police reassured the public that help is always available and just one call away. Stay safe and stay informed.

📍 Police Control Room Srinagar

Contact TypeNumber
Landline0194-2477567
Landline0194-2477568
Mobile9596222550
Mobile9596222551

📍 Senior Police Officers

DesignationMobile Number
SSP Srinagar9596770502
SP Hqrs Srinagar9596770503
Dy.SP HQRS Srinagar9596770518
Dy.SP DAR Srinagar9596770534
SP City East9596770507
SP City West9596770505
SP City North9596770508
SP City South9596770504
SP City Hazratbal9596770506
SDPO Nehru Park9596770513
SDPO Kothibagh9596770514
SDPO West9596770512
SDPO Panthachowk9596770734
SDPO Khanyar9596770516
SDPO M.R. Gunj9596770515
SDPO Sadder9596770511
SDPO Shaheed Gunj9596770510
SDPO Zaidbal9596770517
SDPO Zakoora9596770721

📍 Station House Officers (SHOs)

Police StationMobile Number
PS Kothibagh9596770623
PS Masiuma9596770628
PS Kralkhud9596770627
PS R.M. Bagh9596770624
PS Nishat9596770625
PS Harwan9596770626
PS Nowgam9596770559
PS Parimpora9596770558
PS Panthachowk9596770560
PS Shalteng9596770656
PS Bemina9596770561
PS Safakadal9596770662
PS M.R. Gunj9596770663
PS Khanyar9596770660
PS Nowhatta9596770664
PS Rainawari9596770661
PS Sangam9596770678
PS Batamaloo9596770526
PS Shergarhi9596770525
PS Rajbagh9596770524
PS Sadder9596770523
PS Shaheed Gunj9596770746
PS Karan Nagar9596770527
PS Chanapora9596770529
PS Soura9596770587
PS Zadibal9596770588
PS Nigeen9596770590
PS Zakoora9596770589
PS Ahmad Nagar9596770549
PS Lalbazar9596770591

📍 In-Charge Police Posts (I/C PPs)

Police PostMobile Number
PP Nehru Park9596770629
PP Qamarwari9596770562
PP Bagyas9596770665
PP Noorbagh9596770666
PP Banmohalla9596770667
PP Urdu Bazar9596770668
PP Rangreth9596770536
PP Tengpora9596770650
PP Hazratbal9596770592
PP Khimber9596770617

Pahalgam Railway Line Is About Future, Not Fear—Connectivity Is Development

J&K Government Orders Probe Into Student’s Alleged Suicide at GDC Doda, Assistant Professor Suspended

probe

The Jammu and Kashmir Higher Education Department has constituted a high-level committee to enquire into the alleged suicide of a student at Government Degree College, Doda, which reportedly took place on January 16, 2026.

According to an official government order, the committee has been tasked with examining the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident and submitting its findings to the authorities. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel


Committee Formed for Enquiry

As per the order, the enquiry committee includes:

  • Dr Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, Director Colleges, Higher Education Department
  • Sanjay Kumar Tickoo, Deputy Secretary to the Government, Higher Education Department
  • Syed Ishrat Parvez, Under Secretary to the Government, Higher Education Department

The committee will look into all aspects related to the incident and assess whether any institutional or individual lapses were involved.


Assistant Professor Placed Under Suspension

In a separate government order, the Higher Education Department has placed an Assistant Professor under suspension pending the outcome of the enquiry.

The order states that Manzoor Ahmad, Assistant Professor (Commerce) at Government Degree College, Doda, has been suspended with immediate effect. During the suspension period, he will remain attached to the office of the Director Colleges, Jammu and Kashmir, until further orders.


Serious Concerns Raised

The incident has raised serious concerns regarding student welfare, mental health support, and the overall academic environment in higher education institutions. Officials said the government is treating the matter with utmost seriousness and has assured that strict action will be taken if any wrongdoing is established.


Awaiting Enquiry Report

Authorities have urged restraint while the enquiry is underway and said further action will depend on the committee’s findings. The tragic incident has also renewed calls for stronger counselling systems and grievance redressal mechanisms in colleges across Jammu and Kashmir.

Pahalgam Railway Line Is About Future, Not Fear—Connectivity Is Development

Pahalgam MLA Altaf Ahmad Kaloo Lays Foundation Stone for Long-Pending Karshangam Sallar Bridge

Karshangam, Sallar Bridge

In a major push towards improving rural infrastructure and public connectivity, Altaf Ahmad Kaloo, the Hon’ble MLA Pahalgam, on Wednesday laid the foundation stone for a long-awaited bridge at Aishmuqam–Karshangam, Sallar in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.

The bridge has been a long-standing demand of local residents for nearly three decades. The absence of a proper bridge had caused repeated hardships, especially during harsh weather, making daily movement and access to essential services extremely difficult. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel


Boost to Connectivity and Daily Life

For years, people in the area struggled with poor connectivity, affecting education, healthcare access, and emergency services. The new bridge is expected to ease daily commuting and ensure safer travel for residents.

Speaking at the occasion, MLA Altaf Ahmad Kaloo said the government is committed to balanced and inclusive development, particularly in remote and semi-urban areas. He added that the bridge would not only reduce travel time but also help strengthen local economic activity by improving access to markets and nearby towns.


Construction to Start Immediately

Officials from the Roads and Buildings Department said construction work will begin immediately and is targeted to be completed within six months. After completion, the bridge will be formally opened to the public.


Public Welcomes the Initiative

Local residents and community representatives expressed satisfaction over the start of the project, calling it a historic moment for the area. They said the bridge will improve safety, reduce hardships, and help integrate the region more closely with surrounding areas.

The foundation stone-laying ceremony was attended by senior officials, engineers, and a large number of locals, reflecting strong public support and optimism about timely completion.


A Key Development Milestone

Once completed, the Aishmuqam–Karshangam bridge is expected to become a vital infrastructure asset, contributing significantly to the socio-economic development of the area and improving the overall quality of life in parts of Anantnag district.

Pahalgam Railway Line Is About Future, Not Fear—Connectivity Is Development

Vande Mataram 150-Year Campaign Phase II Begins In Anantnag With Mass Singing And Patriotic Events

Vande Mataram

Phase II of the national “Vande Mataram” 150 Years Commemoration Campaign began across Anantnag on Monday with mass singing programmes held at public places and institutions throughout the district.

The main event was organised at the Town Hall in Anantnag and was presided over by the Deputy Commissioner, S. F. Hamid. Participants gathered to collectively sing the national song Vande Mataram, showing a strong sense of unity, patriotism, and love for the country.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Addressing the gathering, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the historic importance of Vande Mataram during India’s freedom struggle and said its message of national unity and service remains relevant even today. He encouraged students and young people to follow the values of discipline, dedication, and responsible citizenship, and to play a positive role in society and nation-building.

He said that Phase II of the campaign will feature several patriotic activities across schools, colleges, and public spaces in the district. All events will be held in a respectful and inclusive manner. The campaign will conclude on Republic Day, January 26.

Praising Anantnag’s regular participation in national initiatives, Hamid expressed confidence that the second phase of the campaign would have a stronger impact. He said this would be possible through active involvement of government officials, students, youth volunteers, civil society groups, and the general public.

During the programme, documentaries and short films on the history and importance of Vande Mataram were also screened to raise awareness and deepen public understanding.

Similar mass singing events were organised in various sub-divisions and public institutions across the district, with participation from senior officers, students, and members of civil society.

Pahalgam Railway Line Is About Future, Not Fear—Connectivity Is Development

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Inaugurates Revamped Amira Kadal Pedestrian Bridge Under Srinagar Smart City Project

Tawi River Front project J&K Lieutenant Governor

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday inaugurated the newly renovated Amira Kadal in Srinagar.

Officials said the historic bridge has been redeveloped as a dedicated pedestrian bridge under the Srinagar Smart City Project. The aim is to improve public movement while also highlighting the city’s rich heritage along the Jhelum River riverfront. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

One official said Amira Kadal is among the oldest bridges in Srinagar. Its new design focuses on people rather than vehicles, making it easier and safer for pedestrians to move between key areas of the city.

During the inauguration, the Lieutenant Governor was joined by the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, senior police officials, the Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, the CEO of Srinagar Smart City Limited, the Lal Chowk MLA, and other top officers.

The bridge is expected to become an important public landmark. It connects the busy Lal Chowk area with nearby markets and is also designed to work as a cultural and recreational space for residents and visitors.

The revamped Amira Kadal now features smart lighting, seating areas, and improved walking paths. Officials said it will play a key role in Srinagar’s growing riverfront development and enhance the overall experience for pedestrians in the heart of the city.

Pahalgam Railway Line Is About Future, Not Fear—Connectivity Is Development

Mehbooba Mufti Seeks Division Status for Pir Panjal, Says Region Faces Long-Standing Administrative Neglect

mehbooba

PDP president and former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday renewed her demand for division-level status for the Pir Panjal region, saying it is essential to end years of administrative hardship faced by the people.

Speaking at the party’s citizen outreach programme Gal Baat in Jammu, Mehbooba Mufti said residents of the Pir Panjal belt, including Rajouri and Poonch, are forced to travel repeatedly to Srinagar or Jammu even for basic official work. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

She said granting Pir Panjal its own division, with a Divisional Commissioner and senior administrative officers posted locally, would bring governance closer to the people and reduce unnecessary difficulties.

“The people of Pir Panjal should not have to run from pillar to post between the two capitals for routine administrative issues,” Mehbooba said. “A separate division with its own officers will give real relief and dignity to the region.”

The demand for division status for Pir Panjal is not new. The region, known for its difficult terrain, border location, and scattered villages, has long complained of neglect in administration and development. Similar demands gained momentum after Ladakh was granted separate division status in 2019.

At that time, Mehbooba Mufti had welcomed Ladakh’s elevation but questioned why regions like Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley were left out, despite facing similar geographical and administrative challenges.

During the Gal Baat event, which focused on open and non-political interaction with youth, Mehbooba praised young participants for openly discussing local problems. She used the platform to underline that Rajouri and Poonch are too large and complex to be managed with limited administrative machinery.

The Pir Panjal region is home to diverse communities, including Gujjars, Paharis, and others, many of whom live in remote border areas with poor connectivity, harsh weather, and security concerns. Leaders supporting the demand say division status would help improve planning for healthcare, education, roads, and employment.

Mehbooba’s remarks have been widely shared on social media by Peoples Democratic Party supporters, with many residents hoping the government will take serious note of the long-pending demand.

For people in Pir Panjal, a separate division is seen not just as an administrative change, but as a step towards fairer governance and equal development in Jammu and Kashmir.

Pahalgam Railway Line Is About Future, Not Fear—Connectivity Is Development

Woman Found Tied Inside Plastic Bag in Rajouri, Rushed to Hospital in Critical Condition

5-Year-Old Girl

A shocking incident came to light in Rajouri district after a 45-year-old woman was found tied with a rope inside a plastic bag, police said on Monday.

The woman has been identified as Azeem Akhtar. According to police, she was discovered late Sunday night by locals in an isolated area of Tandwal. After noticing the suspicious bag, residents alerted authorities and helped rescue her.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Azeem Akhtar was immediately freed and rushed to Government Medical College Hospital Rajouri, where she is undergoing treatment. Doctors said her condition is serious.

Police officials said they are waiting for the woman’s health to improve so that her statement can be recorded. An investigation has been started to find out how she ended up in the bag and who is responsible for the incident.

Officials said further details will emerge once the victim is able to speak.

Pahalgam Railway Line Is About Future, Not Fear—Connectivity Is Development

Police Seize 750 kg Rice in Handwara, Crack Down on Illegal Transport of Essential Commodities

Police Seize 750 kg Rice in Handwara

In a continued crackdown against illegal transportation and black marketing of essential commodities, Jammu and Kashmir Police intercepted a vehicle and seized around 750 kilograms of rice in the Vilgam area of Handwara, officials said.

A police spokesperson said that during routine naka checking at Vilgam, a police team noticed a suspicious vehicle and stopped it for inspection. During the checking, the vehicle was found carrying a large quantity of rice without any valid permission or supporting documents. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

“The driver failed to produce any permit or proof related to the lawful transportation of the rice,” the spokesperson said.

Following this, the police seized the entire consignment on the spot and took the vehicle into custody. An FIR has been registered at Police Station Vilgam under relevant sections of law. Further investigation is underway to identify the source and intended destination of the seized rice.

Police said the action is part of ongoing efforts to prevent illegal trade and ensure the proper distribution of essential commodities. They appealed to the public to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and report any suspicious or illegal activities to the nearest police station.

Officials reiterated that strict action will continue against those involved in black marketing and unlawful transportation of essential goods.

Pahalgam Railway Line Is About Future, Not Fear—Connectivity Is Development

Minor Fire Breaks Out at Girls’ Hostel in Srinagar’s Rajbagh, Quick Action Prevents Major Damage

Girls’ Hostel

A minor fire incident was reported on Sunday afternoon in the Rajbagh area of Srinagar, officials said.

According to a fire official, the State Fire Control Room at Batamaloo received an emergency call, after which a fire tender from the Gowkadal Fire Station was immediately sent to the spot. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

On reaching the location, firefighters found that the fire had broken out in a room on the second floor of a four-storey building housing the Royal Girls Hostel. Preliminary checks revealed that an electric blanket had been left switched on, causing it to overheat and ignite the bedding and mattress inside the room.

The official said the hostel management acted quickly by using fire extinguishers, which helped stop the fire from spreading to other rooms.

Firefighters then fully extinguished the flames and carried out cooling operations to ensure there was no risk of re-ignition. In the incident, bedding and a mattress in one room were damaged, while the rest of the property was saved. One minor injury was also reported.

The fire operation was supervised by Deputy Director Dr Mir Aqib Hussain, with coordination and movement managed by Aijaz Ahmad Shah.

Meanwhile, Fire and Emergency Services ADGP Alok Kumar advised the public to avoid using low-quality electrical appliances and strictly warned against leaving electrical devices unattended to prevent such incidents in the future, according to KNS.

Pahalgam Railway Line Is About Future, Not Fear—Connectivity Is Development