Politics

Politics

Restore J&K Statehood without Delay and Fulfill Public Commitments Made in Parliament: Ashok Bhan Prominent Supreme Court Lawyer and Kashmiri leader

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Ashok Bhan

Prominent Supreme Court lawyer and Kashmiri leader Ashok Bhan on Sunday has called on the Prime Minister and Home Minister to fulfill their public commitments made in Parliament and during election campaigns to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir immediately after assembly elections are concluded.

Speaking at a webinar hosted by the World Peace & Reconciliation Forum in Delhi, Bhan highlighted the same commitment is reflected in the stand and statement of the Union of India in the Supreme Court of India which forms part of the Judgement of the five judges Constitution bench in Article 370 matter.

Bhan quotes what the Constitution Bench of give hon’ble Judges have held, “In the present matter, the majority held that there was no need to go into the question of whether or not J&K lost its “character” because of the reorganisation into two Union Territories. The judges relied on the submission of Solicitor General Tushar Mehta who had told the Court that J&K’s statehood would be restored in due time and this would not impact the Union Territory of Ladakh. Therefore, they left the question of determining the contours of Article 3 open to be determined in a different case where the question emerges.”

“The Court directed that J&K’s statehood be restored as soon as possible.”

“In conformity with the commitment in and out side the parliament and in response to the directions of hon’ble Supreme Court the elected JK government led by Omar Abdullah passed a resolution: The Jammu and Kashmir Cabinet has passed a resolution urging Union Government to restore the statehood of Jammu and Kashmir”, he said.

Earlier, The Cabinet which met under the chairmanship of Omar Abdullah, Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir passed a unanimous resolution for restoration of statehood in its original form.

The restoration of statehood will be a beginning of a healing process, reclaiming the constitutional rights and protecting identity of people of Jammu and Kashmir.

The Cabinet has authorised the Chief Minister to take up the matter with the Prime Minister and Government of India for restoration of statehood.

CM Omar Abdullah called on Prime Minister, the Home Minister, the Vice President and her excellency the President of India to press the people’s demand for restoration of Statehood.

Bhan said it becomes incumbent on the Union of India to order restoration of the Statehood to Jammu & Kashmir in the interest of the cohesion and integrity and regional aspirations.

He urged the Union government to fast track the decision for restoration of Statehood as the only political means to set right the turbulent affairs of Jammu & Kashmir.It is an effective answer to the electorally division and fault lines surfaced in the recent elections.These are fraught with dangers of further deepening the regional divide.

Bhan complimented the astuteness of CM Omar Abdullah who is handling the sensitivities competently and trying to address the emerging political fault lines very sensibly.The central leadership shall have to rise above party lines and help all out the Omar Abdullah’s government that has come to power with a massive people’s mandate.New Delhi has to help the thought process of PM Modi who says in the context of J &K : “DIL KI DOORI aur Dilli KE DOORIYAAN MITHANI HAI”

Politics

Home Minister Amit Shah Reiterates the Promise Restoration Statehood for J&K, Stating that Appropriate Decisions would be made at the Right Time

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Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah Saturday reiterated his promise of statehood restoration to Jammu and Kashmir and said that the appropriate decisions would be taken at the right time.

Speaking at the Agenda Aaj Tak programme in New Delhi, he reiterated that J&K’s return to full statehood would be decided “at the appropriate time.”

Addressing concerns during the ‘Shah Hai To Sambhav Hai’ session, the Home Minister said, “We have already made our stand clear in Parliament. The timeframe was shared there, and we said appropriate decisions would be taken when the time comes. It would not be appropriate for me to provide additional details now, especially when Parliament is in session.”

Shah underscored the government’s commitment to improving governance in the region, saying, “We fulfilled our promise by holding elections and enabling a popular government to take charge in J&K. The removal of President’s rule itself signifies the progress made in the region.”

He said that the situation in J&K had significantly improved under the present dispensation.

Highlighting the developments in the region, the Home Minister said, “Over two crore tourists have visited Jammu and Kashmir, cinema halls have reopened after three decades, and the Tazia procession was conducted for the first time in 33 years. These are significant milestones that reflect the improved situation in the region.”

He said: “The amount of investment that Jammu and Kashmir received in the last 75 years has been matched in just five years. Lok Sabha elections, Panchayat elections, and other democratic exercises have been conducted without violence. Not a single bullet was fired, and there was no need for re-elections anywhere. This itself is the strongest evidence of normalcy and peace in Jammu and Kashmir.”

On the question of terrorism, Shah emphasised the strides taken to curb violence and promote stability in J&K.

“The restoration of peace and law and order is visible in every sphere. Investment inflows, the revival of cultural events like the Tazia procession, and the safe conduct of elections are testaments to this progress. We remain committed to uprooting terrorism and ensuring long-term stability in the region,” he said.

While maintaining that the central government’s approach to Jammu and Kashmir is guided by pragmatism and timing, Shah reassured that every promise made regarding the region would be honoured at the appropriate time.

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Politics

Mehbooba Mufti Criticizes NC For its Silence on key Issues Affecting Jammu and Kashmir

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Mehbooba Mufti Criticizes NC

Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday criticized the National Conference (NC) for its silence on key issues affecting Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking at the PDP’s general council meeting in Srinagar, she said the NC, despite having 50 members in the Assembly, has failed to address crucial matters like the restoration of special status, statehood, and the release of political prisoners.

Mehbooba assured the people that the PDP would lead the fight for these issues. “If NC cannot speak up, the PDP will take the responsibility to fight for the restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status and statehood. We will not remain silent,” she said.

She stressed that the PDP stands as the voice of the people, committed to justice, peace, and dignity. Mehbooba also called for the release of political prisoners, many of whom have been detained since the revocation of Article 370 in August 2019.“These prisoners represent the voice of the masses. Their release is vital for trust and peace,” she added.

Highlighting other challenges like unemployment, drug abuse, and environmental issues, Mehbooba urged a governance approach that prioritizes people’s needs. She also condemned hate crimes and pledged to fight against any form of disempowerment in the region.

Mehbooba reaffirmed her party’s commitment to restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s rights through democratic and constitutional means. She accused other parties of lacking political will to address these issues. “While others hesitate, the PDP will not stop fighting for the dignity and aspirations of the people,” she concluded. (KNS)

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PDP Leaders Treated Worse Than Jamaat-e-Islami or Hurriyat Leaders: Waheed Para

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waheed

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader and MLA Pulwama, Waheed Para, on Saturday said that PDP leaders have been treated worse than Jamaat-e-Islami (JEI) and Hurriyat leaders. He made these remarks during a party function held in Srinagar.

Addressing party workers, Para highlighted that the public has always had high hopes for the PDP, despite the National Conference (NC) holding the majority. He stated, “People still don’t have as much faith in the NC as they have in the PDP. The public’s expectations from us remain strong.”

He further said the PDP didn’t contested election against National Conference but against the system that implemented the decisions of August 5, 2019, when Jammu and Kashmir’s special status was revoked. Para reiterated that PDP leaders are committed to forwarding the vision and message of party president Mehbooba Mufti.

Recalling a pivotal moment in the Assembly, Para said, “On the first day of the Assembly session, when most Kashmiris felt the issue of Article 370 was being sidelined, it was the PDP that took a bold step and raised the matter.”

He criticized former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, saying, “When PDP was in power, Omar Abdullah opposed most of our efforts. Now, he claims to normalize the situation, even though every law is being implemented in J&K, including in his constituency.”

Para called on party workers to remain vigilant and dedicated to the party’s cause, asserting that the PDP continues to represent the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.(KNS)

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Jammu and Kashmir Congress President Tariq Karra Criticizes Delays in Administrative Reforms in J&K

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Tariq Hameed Karra

Jammu and Kashmir Congress Chief Tariq Karra on Thursday reiterated the party’s commitment to restoring statehood for Jammu and Kashmir, stating that the demand has been a consistent priority for the party both before and after elections.

Speaking to reporters, Karra said that Congress leader Rahul Gandhi has already vowed to fight for the statehood of J&K inside and outside Parliament.

“Our party has been demanding statehood restoration long before elections. If we look now, all parties are talking about it, but Congress has always been firm on this issue,” he said.

When asked about the ongoing differences between political parties over the statehood issue, Karra refrained from commenting, saying, “I can’t say anything about the tussle between them.

” However, he expressed dissatisfaction with the delay in issuing business rules for J&K.

“It is unfortunate that even after so much time, the business rules have not yet been issued,” Karra remarked.

Karra urged the government to expedite necessary administrative measures to address the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.(KNS)

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Bring Governance Closer To People is Primary Objective Of Government: Sakina Itoo

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Sakina Itooa

 Minister for Health and Medical Education, Social Welfare, and Education, Sakeena Itoo, today visited Malvan village of Kulgam district and held a massive public grievances redressal camp there.

The camp, which witnessed an overwhelming turnout of enthusiastic locals, provided an important platform for them to voice their concerns before the Minister and seek immediate redressal to their problems.

Addressing the gathering, the Minister stated that addressing public grievances and ensuring welfare of citizens remains top priorities of the government led by Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah.

She underscored the government’s commitment to strengthening the public grievance mechanism to ensure prompt resolution of issues raised by the people.

Sakeena Itoo emphasized on the government’s commitment to making public administration more transparent, accountable and responsive to the needs of the people. “Our primary objective is to bring governance closer to the people, ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed swiftly”, Sakeena said.

“These grievance redressal camps are a step towards creating a more inclusive and participatory system of governance”, she added.

The Minister further remarked that the government is fully aware of the challenges faced by the people in rural areas and this camp is an opportunity for us to listen to their issues at their doorsteps and also take immediate actions to resolve them. “We want to ensure that every individual, regardless of their background or location, feels empowered and supported by our government”, Sakeena maintained.

She assured the gathering that their demands would be met with tangible actions, resulting in visible improvements and benefits for the community.

The Minister also instructed district officers to adopt an efficient and responsive mechanism for addressing public grievances. She called upon them to work with dedication and ensure timely redressal of the issues brought to their notice.

The event was attended by Additional District Development Commissioner (ADDC) Kulgam, officers from various departments and large number of locals.

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Sher-i-e Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah Freed Us from Tyranny’: CM’s Advisor Nasir Aslam 

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Advisor Nasir Aslam 

Advisor to the Chief Minister, Nasir Aslam Wani, on Thursday highlighted the significant contributions of Sher-i-e Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah in liberating the people of Jammu and Kashmir from oppressive rule and setting the foundation for progress and development.

Speaking at a commemorative event, Nasir Aslam stated, “It is our collective responsibility to remember those who shaped our history and gave us the strength to speak and achieve milestones. Sheri Kashmir’s efforts stand out, as he played a pivotal role in granting us freedom and dignity.”

He further noted the challenges faced by the region during the era of autocracy, describing it as a time marked by widespread hardship and tyranny.

“Sheikh Kashmir’s leadership helped us break free from that oppression. His contributions will remain an integral part of our history,” Nasir Aslam said.

The Advisor prayed for Sheikh Kashmir, saying, “May Allah grant him a place in Jannah and elevate his status further.”

During the event, Nasir Aslam Wani also mentioned the reinstatement of a canceled ceremony and assured that efforts are being made to organize grander celebrations in the future. “By the next significant milestone, we aim to ensure full-fledged observance of these important traditions,” he added.(KNS)

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NC Pays Ttribute To Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah on His 119 th Birth Anniversary

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Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah

National Conference leaders on Thursday paid tributes to its founder Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah on his 119th birth anniversary.

National Conference president Dr Farooq Abdullah, vice president Omar Abdullah and other senior leaders visited the Qaid Mazar in Hazratbal where they offered Fateha Khawani.

All party leaders, functionaries, and workers gathered to pay homage to Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah—(KNO)

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Reinstate Dec 5 As Public HolidayTo Honor The Birth Anniversary of Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah: Ali Mohammad Sagar

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Ali Sagar

National Conference (NC) veteran and MLA Khanyar, Ali Mohammad Sagar, has called on Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to reinstate December 5 as a public holiday to honor the birth anniversary of Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah.

Describing Sheikh Abdullah as an unparalleled leader in the history of Jammu and Kashmir, Sagar outlined the need to commemorate his contributions to the region’s social and political landscape.

In a statement issued here, Sagar lauded Sheikh Abdullah as a transformative figure who awakened the people of Jammu and Kashmir from centuries of servitude and oppression. “Sher-e-Kashmir was a bulwark against the tides of despair, championing the cause of dignity, democratic rights, and social justice for the people. His sacrifices and tireless efforts brought an end to despotic rule and paved the way for a prosperous future,” Sagar said.

Highlighting the relevance of Sheikh Abdullah’s legacy, Sagar pointed out that the recently concluded elections demonstrated the NC’s continued resonance with the people of Jammu and Kashmir. He argued that reinstating the holiday would not only honor Sheikh Abdullah’s contributions but also pay tribute to the sacrifices made by the people in strengthening democratic institutions and social justice in the region.

“Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah remains the guiding light for the people of Jammu and Kashmir. His values and vision act as a compass, steering this troubled land towards prosperity. Undermining his contributions is akin to denying the sun’s rays that illuminate even the darkest of days,” Sagar remarked, adding that those who once opposed Sheikh Abdullah’s legacy have now been silenced by the enduring admiration of the masses.

Sagar urged the government to act promptly, asserting that respecting Sheikh Abdullah’s legacy and courage is not just a matter of historical justice but a recognition of the unshakable bond he shares with the people of Jammu and Kashmir—(KNO)

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Over 1.5 Million Individuals Are Affected By Drug Addiction,Hails Police over action against Drug Dealers: Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Hurriyat Chairman

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Mirwaiz

Hurriyat (M) chairman, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, on Monday hailed the Jammu and Kashmir Police for its crackdown on the inter-state drug network.

In a religious address to a large congregation in Eidgah, Mirwaiz said that there was an urgent need for a collective action to improve societal conditions, particularly focusing on the escalating issue of drug addiction.Highlighting the alarming statistic that over 1.5 million individuals are affected by drug addiction, Mirwaiz called for a united effort to combat this epidemic.

He pointed out that the vast network of mosques across the region could serve as pivotal centers in this fight. “Mosque committees can collaborate and implement effective ways to tackle drug addiction in every area,” he stated, emphasizing the power of community involvement. They can keep an eye on suspected people in the area and help in their rehabilitation.

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, as per a press statement, also expressed appreciation for the intensified efforts by the police to combat drug trafficking.

Acknowledging the recent arrests of several drug dealers and the confiscation of their properties, he remarked, “It is encouraging to see the administration taking decisive steps. When good measures are taken for the welfare of our society, they should also be appreciated by all.”

Mirwaiz address stressed upon unified proactive measures, leveraging both religious institutions and law enforcement in the battle against drug addiction and the importance of community and administrative synergy in fostering a safer, healthier society.

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J&K Raj Bhawan Celebrates Statehood Day of Nagaland with The Spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat

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tatehood Day of Nagaland

Jammu Kashmir Raj Bhavan today celebrated the Statehood Day of Nagaland with the spirit of Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat.

The event, celebrating inherent cultural links among states, also observed Assam Day, which falls on 2nd December. Students, Security personnel and residents of Nagaland and Assam were the special invitees on the occasion.

In his address, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha congratulated and extended his felicitations to the people of Nagaland and Assam.

The Lieutenant Governor paid homage to Rani Gaidinliu, Reverend Poswuyi Swuro, Maniram Dewan, Piyali Barua, Gopinath Bardoloi, Kanaklata Barua, and other great personalities of Nagaland and Assam and remembered their significant contribution in nation building.

“Nagaland and Assam are fine synthesis of tradition and modernity. The two states symbolize India’s strength, its cultural traditions, rich folk art, crafts & literature. May the blessed States, continue to scale new heights of growth and development, under the guidance of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi. I pray for peace, prosperity, and well-being for all its citizens,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

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Sajad Lone Criticises Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for Backtracking on Anti-BJP Campaign Promises

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Sajad Lone Critisize

 Peoples Conference (PC) President Sajad  Gani Lone today accused the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah  of abandoning his aggressive anti-BJP stance post-election and instead displaying “rookie enthusiasm in surrendering” to the BJP.

He criticised the Chief Minister for actions such as gifting shawls to BJP leaders, which Lone described as a “comedown” from the rebellion promised during the election campaign. “During the election period, your body language and utterances were aggressive. Your whole campaign was customised against the BJP. Your electoral script was a blend of escalation and scapegoating. And it worked for you. A massive mandate you got,” Lone wrote on X.

Lone expressed dismay at the Chief Minister’s perceived transformation, saying, “From a rebel with a sword in his hand mounted on a horse to a minion grovelling on his knees, sword replaced by a shawl. What a comedown.” He accused the Chief Minister of humiliating Kashmiri voters who believed they were voting for someone who would stand up to the BJP, adding, “Your shawl draping visuals of surrender meant that BJP had actually taught the people of Kashmir a lesson. The BJP had the last laugh.

Lone raised concerns about the growing confusion caused by the parallel power structure of the elected government and the Lieutenant Governor (LG) administration, stating, “There are no business rules in sight. Business rules are in essence demarcation of respective competencies. And there is total confusion. You have been ring-fenced. You come across as a horse shot through the legs.”

He warned that the ongoing erosion of Kashmiri identity would continue unabated unless the region’s statehood was restored, calling the Union Territory a “ticking bomb.” Lone accused the Chief Minister of betraying the trust of the Kashmiri people, questioning his motives and courage:

“Are you scared? Or are you compromised? Whose side are you on? The Kashmiris have given you the mandate. Go out there and fight for them. Where is the roar that you threatened to roar? Why am I and many more like me hearing a meow,” the PC leader said.

He criticised the Chief Minister’s silence on key issues, including the termination of government employees, suggesting that the administration lacked the courage to stand up to Delhi but had no qualms about targeting Kashmiri locals. “Not a single day passes when the elected government is not undermined. Again you are quiet,” he noted

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

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Sangarsh Samiti Protesters

Former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti today met members of the Maa Vaishno Devi Sangarsh Samiti and other stakeholders in Katra, who have been protesting against the proposed ropeway project to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.

The protesters conveyed their deep concerns about the project’s potential to adversely impact the livelihoods of thousands of local shopkeepers, laborers, pony operators, and others who depend on the traditional pilgrimage route.

During the meeting, the protesters expressed fears that the ropeway would significantly reduce foot traffic along the established paths, directly affecting the businesses and livelihoods of those who have served pilgrims for generations. They emphasized that the project threatens the economic lifeline of many families and could fundamentally alter the pilgrimage experience.

Mehbooba Mufti voiced her support for the protesters, stating, “There is a growing and worrying trend of converting sacred pilgrimage sites into commercial tourist attractions. Such decisions risk undermining the spiritual sanctity of these places and alienating the communities that have nurtured and preserved their traditions for centuries.”

She called upon the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir, who heads the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, to immediately review the decision and engage with stakeholders to find an alternative that safeguards the livelihoods of local residents and respects the sentiments of devotees.

Mehbooba Mufti underscored the need for development that aligns with the welfare of the local population and preserves the spiritual essence of the shrine. She added, “Pilgrimage is not merely a tourism activity; it is a deeply personal and spiritual journey. Commercial interests must not overshadow the sanctity of such revered sites.”

The Maa Vaishno Devi Sangarsh Samiti expressed hope that their concerns would be addressed through dialogue and that the authorities would prioritize the welfare of the affected community while considering any development plans. They reiterated their readiness to support alternative initiatives that balance economic growth with the preservation of the shrine’s heritage.

The issue has sparked widespread attention, with the local community and devotees urging the Shrine Board to reconsider the project in light of its socio-economic and cultural implications. Mehbooba Mufti’s visit has further amplified their voices, as they await a timely resolution to their grievances.

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Srinagar MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi Critiques Centre’s Response on Convoy Movement and Civilian Harassment, Videos Show Ambulances Stopped For Convoy Movement In Kashmir

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Srinagar MP Ruhullah

Srinagar Lok Sabha member Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi on Friday said the response of the Centre to his question in Parliament over the “harassment” of people on the national highway during the convoy movement of the security forces was “full of blatant lies”.

“I asked government of India to stop the harassment of people and blockading of traffic, including ambulances on Srinagar-Jammu national highway during the convoy movement of the security forces This is their response — full of blatant lies,” Mehdi said in a post on X.

He posted the Centre’s response to his questions as well as some photos and videos purportedly showing ambulances being stopped during the convoy movement on the Srinagar-Jammu national highway.“Also sharing some video evidence in the thread to expose their lies,” he said.

The MP had asked the defence minister to state whether it is a fact that the traffic on the highway is stopped multiple times at multiple places at every few kilometres for the Army or paramilitary movement on the Srinagar-Jammu national highway.He had asked whether it is also a fact that not only normal traffic but the ambulances are also stopped by the security forces.

The Srinagar MP also asked the minister what steps were taken or were proposed to be taken by the government to stop this “humiliating practice” which also “violates” the human rights.

In the written answer, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Sethi said as part of drill, regular movement of conveys takes place between Jammu and Srinagar for various operational as well as administrative reasons.

“The Indian Army follows detailed procedures for the movement of convoys with due emphasis on friendly move of the populace. Owing to security reasons and to thwart incidents like attack/ambush of convey in past, Road Opening Parties are sent out prior to the movement of any Security Forces Convoy,” the minister said.

The government said traffic is regulated, temporarily, particularly at points where laterals meet the NH 44 and at U-turn during the movement of the Army or Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) convoys.

“The Indian Army does not harass or stop any civil movement on the National Highway. The charter of civilian traffic regulation is of the state authorities or Jammu and Kashmir Police.“Ambulances are always accorded priority for movement and they are not stopped anywhere by the Security Forces,” the minister added.

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MLA Pulwama Waheed Para Demand Railway Minister to Establish Vande Bharat Express stop at Awantipora Pulwama

by
waheed

People’s Democratic Party Leader and MLA Pulwama Waheed-ur-Rehman Parra on Friday urged Union Railway Minister to establish Vande Bharat Express stop at Awantipora.

In a post on X, Waheed Parra wrote, “Strongly urging for a Vande Bharat Express stop at Awantipora, Pulwama! Home to AIIMS, Awantipora Airfield, a major university, and a growing industrial hub, this stop is vital for South Kashmir’s connectivity and development. Requesting @AshwiniVaishnaw Ji and @RailMinIndia to consider Pulwama’s strategic importance.”

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Sajad Lone Criticises Ajmer Sharif Survey, Calls for Focus on Progress Over Regression

by
Sajad Lone

 J&K Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone has expressed strong disapproval of a recent court order permitting the survey of most revered Sufi shrine, Ajmer Sharif, in search of remnants of an ancient Hindu temple.

In an official statement, Lone criticized the misplaced priorities and growing regression in Indian society. “Yet another shocker,” he remarked, referring to the suit seeking a temple “supposedly hidden somewhere in the Ajmer Dargah Sharif.”

He emphasized that as 2024 approaches, marking the dawn of the Artificial Intelligence era, society has regrettably chosen the path of regression.

“And as Indians, let us be honest — we have not contributed to any technological revolution. Yes, we have the resources to make use of them by buying, but scientific innovation? No. None. Not even remotely,” he lamented.

Lone further expressed concern that the nation’s focus appears entirely consumed by an obsession with uncovering hidden temples. “And make no mistakes, a statistically significant section of the population is applauding it,” he said.

“And yes, the more educated, the more temple-searchers they tend to be. Those educated ones who should have been at the forefront of heralding the Indian tech revolution are busy mythologizing,” he added.

Reflecting on a recent visit to Dubai, Lone praised the UAE’s spirit of tolerance and evolution.

“I was recently in Dubai and saw the magnificence of the temples built there. What an oasis of tolerance and mutual respect Dubai has become. Every nationality lives there in an orderly manner. I was in Dubai in the late nineties — what an evolution. They truly deserve to be proud of their transformation into excellence,” he said.

Disheartened by the regression back home, Lone remarked, “Looking back at my own country… How we have regressed. The electoral victories have come at a cost, which have left this country soulless. This country, once defined by its soulfulness, is tragically now soulless and in search of a soul,” he added.

He emphasized that Ajmer’s spiritual and inclusive legacy represents spirituality at its finest, serving as a destination where people of all faiths converge, irrespective of religion, caste, or creed, with a unique belief in the spiritual deliverance offered by this great seat of spirituality.

Turning to Kashmir’s ideological struggles, he noted that clear demarcations existed between moderate ideology and extremism, even within the separatist camp.

“Thousands of lives were lost in the battle between moderates and extremists. Yet the moderates did not surrender. And moderates, inshallah, will never surrender,” he said.

In conclusion, Lone reiterated his faith in the enduring power of tolerance and mutual respect: “The ideology of moderation, tolerance, and mutual respect will prevail.”

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Politics

Nizamuddin Bhat Confident Centre Will Honour Promises on J&K Statehood Restoration

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Nizam-ud-Din Bhat

Senior Congress leader and MLA Bandipora Nizamuddin Bhat on Tuesday said that he firmly believes that the Central government will uphold its promises made to the people on the restoration of constitutional rights and guarantees to Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking with reporters on the sidelines of Constitution Day commemoration function in Bandipora, Bhat said that he believes that the Centre won’t renege on its promise made in the Parliament and in Kashmir as well.

He said that emotions and feelings of the people also need to be respected. “Popular government that has been elected by the people of Jammu and Kashmir should also given due respect. This is a democratic country and I believe the Centre will reciprocate well,” he said.

Congress today held public meetings at district headquarters across the Union Territory to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution of India.

The grand old party also held a protest at Congress Bhawan Srinagar, demanding full restoration of statehood and constitutional guarantees to Jammu and Kashmir.

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Politics

Political Battle Heats Up in Jammu and Kashmir Ahead of Panchayat Elections

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Panchayat Elections

After the successful completion of Lok Sabha and Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir, political activities are intensifying in preparation for the Panchayat elections.
The 2018 Panchayat elections saw boycotts from major parties like the National Conference (NC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). While the elections were officially apolitical, the influence of political support was evident. This time, with NC emerging as the largest party in the Assembly elections, securing 42 seats, a fierce contest is expected between NC and the opposition parties—BJP, Congress, and PDP.
In 2018, voting was conducted in nine phases. The Jammu division recorded an impressive voter turnout of 83.5%, while the Kashmir division lagged at 44.4%. Overall, voter participation stood at 74%. Post-Assembly election victory, NC has shifted its focus to making inroads in Jammu, where the BJP’s dominance had limited its success in the Assembly elections.
Determined to bridge gaps, NC is actively engaging with voters in both Jammu and Kashmir divisions. Divisional president Rattan Lal Gupta affirmed the party’s commitment to serving people across regions equally, stating, “We will connect more people with our policies to ensure a strong performance in the upcoming Panchayat elections.”
On the other hand, BJP is prioritising an aggressive membership campaign. State president Sat Sharma expressed confidence in increasing the party’s vote share, adding, “Our top leadership and grassroots workers are united to achieve greater success.”
Furthermore, the Congress party is focusing on introspection and organizational restructuring. State president Tariq Hameed Karra highlighted the role of a fact-checking committee in identifying weaknesses from the Assembly polls, aiming to present fresh faces for better performance.
With over 65 lakh voters eligible to participate, 4,291 Panchayats and 33,597 Panch seats will be contested. The region-wise distribution of Panchayats underscores the administrative scale of the elections. Key districts in Jammu division include Jammu (305 Panchayats), Rajouri (312), and Kathua (257). In Kashmir, Baramulla leads with 402 Panchayats, followed by Anantnag (335) and Kupwara (385).
The State Election Commission is revising the voter list for 2025. Special camps are scheduled on November 23-24, November 30, and December 1 to address additions, deletions, and corrections. The final voter list will be published on January 6, 2025. Meanwhile, the OBC Commission is actively working on reservations—(KNO)

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Politics

No More Hooliganism,People Have Every Right to Correct Government: Dr Farooq Abdullah

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farooq

National Conference (NC) President Dr Farooq Abdullah on Thursday stated that the media should no longer hesitate to pose questions to the government and the public has every right to correct the dispensation for its mistakes.

Talking to the reporters, Dr Farooq said that the era of fear has gone and the media persons should not now fear to pose a question to the government and make it accountable.

While replying to a query on Member of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah’s statement, he added Aga is the MP of his party and the people have freedom to speak as the hooliganism doesn’t exist anymore.

Also, Dr Farooq Abdullah while replying to the query on fraud case, said that any such issue will be investigated.

Furthermore, he stated that the Centre needs to take the allegations against the Adani group seriously and investigate the matter thoroughly.

He said that the allegations must be investigated and hoped that the Government of India will take the issue seriously and investigate it thoroughly—(KNO)

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Politics

Awami Itehad Party Urges Government of India to Release Er Rashid Ahead of Parliament Session

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er rashid

Awami Itehad Party (AIP) has made a fervent appeal to the Government of India (GoI) to release Party President Er. Rashid, the Member of Parliament from North Kashmir, ahead of the upcoming Parliament session scheduled to begin on November 25.

AIP Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi emphasized that Er. Rashid’s electoral victory in 2024, achieved despite his continued incarceration in Tihar Jail since 2019, is a testament to the overwhelming trust and mandate he enjoys among the people of North Kashmir.

He highlighted that Er. Rashid’s win marks a significant moment in the democratic process, as it reflects the voice of those who continue to believe in his leadership and vision despite adverse circumstances.

“It has been the desire of the people of North Kashmir since 2019 that their issues should be represented by Er. Rashid in Parliament. Though he came close to victory in 2019, securing the second position, he made history in 2024 by winning from Tihar Jail.

This mandate is not just symbolic but a clear expression of the people’s will. The Government of India must respect this democratic mandate by ensuring his release before the commencement of the Parliament session,” said Inam Un Nabi.

The AIP Chief spokesperson further pointed out that democracy thrives on dialogue and representation and Er.

Rashid’s presence in Parliament would only enrich the discussions and provide a much-needed platform for the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

“Er. Rashid’s contributions as a grassroots leader and his consistent advocacy for human rights and justice besides rights for people of J&K, have resonated deeply with the people. His continued incarceration sends a negative message and undermines the democratic ethos of our nation. We appeal to the government to prioritize justice and fairness by releasing Er. Rashid to allow him to fulfill his duties as a Member of Parliament,” Inam added.

The AIP also called upon civil society, political leaders and human rights organizations to join in demanding Er. Rashid’s release, asserting that his presence in Parliament is not only a matter of personal justice but also an essential step towards addressing the concerns of his constituents.

As the Parliament session approaches, all eyes are now on the Government of India to see whether it will heed the call for justice and allow Er. Rashid to represent the people of North Kashmir, who have placed their unwavering faith in him despite the challenges of the past five years.(KNS).

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