Tariq Hameed Karra on Sunday presided over a day-long political convention in the border area of Lolab, where he said the Congress party had played a major role in the development of border residents without discrimination. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Addressing party workers, Karra criticised the Centre over what he described as an “assault on public rights” and an “unjustified delay” in restoring full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.
He alleged that the approach of the BJP-led government towards Jammu and Kashmir was insensitive and unresponsive.
“The Centre’s decision to downgrade the former J&K state and divide it into two Union Territories reflects the BJP government’s desperation to demoralise the people,” Karra said.
The Indian National Congress leader reaffirmed the party’s commitment to restoring complete statehood through its movement titled “Hamari Riyasat Hamara Haq”, which has also been raised at Delhi’s Jantar Mantar.
Karra also urged party workers to ensure the successful implementation of the second phase of the “Sangthan Srijan Abhiyan” and stressed the importance of strengthening booth-level committees across the region.
Meanwhile, Ghulam Ahmad Mir criticised the voter deletion exercise, calling the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) “unethical” and an “assault on genuine voters”.
He claimed that the exercise had influenced recent elections in West Bengal in favour of the BJP and urged Congress workers in Jammu and Kashmir to remain prepared to counter similar challenges.
Mir also accused the government of imposing tax burdens on people while failing to address unemployment and rising prices.
“People in J&K are facing GST, toll taxes, unemployment, and price rise, but no people-friendly measures have been introduced,” he said.
Several senior Congress leaders, including MLA Adv Irfan Hafeez Lone, DCC President Haji Farooq Mir, Nissar Ahmad Mandoo, and Fayaz Ahmad Mir, also addressed the convention.
Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam on Sunday announced that the crescent moon for the holy month of Dhul Hijjah has been sighted in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Grand Mufti said testimonies regarding the moon sighting were received from Kargil and several parts of Jammu and Kashmir.Following the confirmation, he announced that the month of Dhul Hijjah 1447 AH will begin from Monday, May 18, 2026. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
He further stated that Eid al-Adha will be observed across Jammu and Kashmir on May 27, 2026.Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam extended heartfelt greetings to the people of Jammu and Kashmir and prayed that Eid-ul-Adha brings peace, happiness, and prosperity to the region.
Islamic University of Science and Technology organised a torch march on its campus against drug abuse as part of the nationwide #NashaMuktBharat campaign.
The awareness march witnessed participation from boarders, faculty members, university management, and students, who joined together to raise awareness against the growing drug menace in society. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The campaign was led by Dr. Zahid Khaki and Dr. Mir Hashim, who highlighted the importance of collective efforts in building a drug-free society.
University officials said IUST remains committed to promoting awareness, healthy lifestyles, and social responsibility among students and the wider community.
The programme was organised by the Provosts (Boys and Girls) along with the Dean of Students at the university.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Sunday stressed that mosques, khanqahs, and imambaras are not only places of worship but have historically served as important centres of learning, reform, guidance, and social transformation. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Addressing a Seerat Conference organised by Idarah Auqaf Gousia at Sarai Bala, Amira Kadal, Mirwaiz said these institutions have played a key role throughout Islamic history in strengthening moral awareness, communal harmony, and addressing social and ethical challenges.
He said that in present times, when society is facing political, moral, social, and cultural challenges, there is an urgent need to revive the true role of these religious centres.
Mirwaiz said issues such as moral decline, domestic conflicts, growing materialism, and weakening family and community bonds require serious reflection and continuous social engagement.
“Our mosques, khanqahs and imambaras must become centres for initiating positive change and reform within society. They should guide the younger generation, spread awareness, strengthen moral values, and help address the problems affecting our people,” he said.
He added that Kashmir’s religious and spiritual institutions have historically promoted values of coexistence, tolerance, spirituality, and social responsibility, and these traditions must be protected and strengthened.
“We have to safeguard our religious identity, culture, language, moral values, and spiritual heritage. These institutions have always acted as centres of guidance and reform and must continue to play that role with renewed commitment,” Mirwaiz said.
Referring to the life and teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, Mirwaiz said Seerat-un-Nabi ﷺ should not only be remembered through speeches and gatherings, but its teachings should also be reflected in personal behaviour and collective social life.
He said the Prophet ﷺ established a society based on justice, compassion, honesty, accountability, and service to humanity, and Muslims should strive to follow these principles in modern times.
A Jammu and Kashmir Bank employee from south Kashmir died after reportedly falling from a building in Gurugram, officials and sources said. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The deceased has been identified as John Aadil Khan, a resident of Seer Hamdan in south Kashmir.According to sources, he was presently posted at the Jammu and Kashmir Bank branch in Navin Shahdara, Delhi.
Officials said the incident took place in Gurugram, where Khan reportedly fell from a building under circumstances that are being investigated.Police have started an investigation to determine the exact cause of the incident. Further details are awaited.
Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday called for a comprehensive dialogue between New Delhi and Islamabad, saying that any peace process should begin with the people of Jammu and Kashmir. . Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Addressing a workers’ convention, the Peoples Democratic Party president referred to recent remarks made by a senior RSS functionary supporting talks with Pakistan and described the development as a positive step.
However, she stressed that the dialogue should not remain limited to the governments of India and Pakistan alone.
“It should start from Kashmir. It should start from Jammu and Kashmir. This is what our people are demanding,” Mehbooba Mufti said.
She also called for confidence-building measures across the Line of Control (LoC), including reopening trade and travel routes between Uri and Muzaffarabad and Rawalakot.
Mehbooba demanded the opening of more roads and asked the government to return power projects currently managed by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC).
The PDP chief further urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to use his political influence to work towards a lasting solution to the Kashmir issue.
Recalling PM Modi’s surprise visit to Lahore in 2015, she said the Prime Minister has the authority and opportunity to take bold initiatives for peace.
“If PM Modi wants his name to go down in history, then he has a golden opportunity to find a solution to the Jammu and Kashmir issue, heal the wounds of the people, and involve Pakistan in the process,” she said.
Mehbooba Mufti also demanded the rollback of strict laws such as the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Public Safety Act (PSA), saying the people of Kashmir deserve peace and freedom after years of suffering.
She added that people in the Valley want better connectivity with Pakistan, China, and Central Asia, and urged authorities to open routes for trade and movement.
Police on Saturday carried out searches at more than 15 locations across Sopore in north Kashmir in connection with a case registered against the banned outfit Jamaat-e-Islami under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), officials said.. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
According to officials, the searches were conducted in Jamia Qadeem, Naseem Bagh, Krankshivan, Tarzoo, Amargarh, Warpora, Bomai, Boitingoo, and several other areas of Sopore.
The operation was linked to FIR No. 42/2025 registered at Police Station Sopore under sections 10 and 13 of the UAPA.
Police said the searches were carried out after obtaining proper warrants from the designated UAPA court. The operation was conducted in the presence of executive magistrates and independent witnesses following legal procedures.
During the raids, police reportedly seized incriminating material, including literature linked to the banned organisation, for further investigation and examination.
Officials said the action is part of ongoing efforts by Sopore Police to identify and take legal action against people allegedly involved in activities connected to banned organisations and anti-national networks.
Police added that further investigation into the case is currently underway.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq expressed deep sorrow over the demise of Abdul Rouf Fazili of Qamarwari, Srinagar, a retired Deputy Conservator of Forests, noted literary figure, and close relative of the Mirwaiz family.
Remembering him as a dignified and intellectual personality, Mirwaiz said Abdul Rouf Fazili was widely respected for his professional honesty and literary work. He especially highlighted Fazili Sahib’s scholarly interest in the philosophy and thoughts of Allama Muhammad Iqbal and praised his English translation of “Awrad-e-Fatheeya”. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Mirwaiz described his death as a major loss for Kashmir’s literary and intellectual circles and recalled the long-standing relationship between the two families.
The Nimaz-e-Jinazah of the deceased was led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and attended by a large number of relatives, admirers, and people from different walks of life.
Among those present at the funeral prayers was Mufti Nasir-ul-Islam, who is also closely related to the deceased.
Mirwaiz prayed for maghfirah and the highest place in Jannat for the departed soul. He also expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family, especially Abdul Rafia Fazili, and prayed for patience and strength for them during this difficult time.
Ghulam Hasan Sheikh, a senior Hurriyat leader and former Ameer (chief) of Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir, breathed his last on Saturday in Kulgam.
Sheikh, a resident of Tarigam village in Kulgam district, was suffering from prolonged illness and was critically ill in the District Hospital Kulgam. He was reportedly in his early nineties. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
He had served as Ameer of Jamaat-e-Islami Kashmir for two terms. His demise has been widely condoled across the Kashmir Valley.
Namaz-e-Janaza is expected to be offered at his native village Tarigam later today.
Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir through its Directorate of Extension and KVK Kupwara organised a Training-cum-Awareness Programme on mushroom cultivation at Bandi Monbal to promote sustainable farming and self-employment opportunities among rural communities.
The programme mainly focused on creating awareness among farmers, especially farm women, about the income and employment potential of mushroom cultivation. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The event was chaired by Prof. Raihana Habib Kanth, Director Extension SKUAST-K, who encouraged farmers to diversify agricultural activities and adopt innovative farming enterprises for sustainable livelihoods. She assured participants of full support from the university for the welfare and upliftment of the farming community.
Earlier, Prof. G. M. Bhat highlighted the growing importance of mushroom cultivation as a developing agri-business with strong potential for rural entrepreneurship, nutritional security, and livelihood improvement.
During the technical session, Dr. Vikas Gupta delivered a detailed lecture on scientific mushroom cultivation. He explained cultivation methods, management practices, value addition techniques, and the economic advantages of mushroom farming.
More than 100 farm women participated in the programme and actively interacted with experts. Participants appreciated the efforts of KVK Kupwara in promoting skill-based agricultural activities in rural areas.
SKUAST-K Conducts Trial Run of Plant Health Clinic App
Meanwhile, the Directorate of Extension SKUAST-K also conducted a preparatory testing session of the Plant Health Clinic App ahead of its review by the Vice Chancellor scheduled for May 18, 2026.
The session was coordinated by Prof. Amal Saxena, Associate Director Extension (Agri.), to check the smooth functioning and performance of the e-Plant Clinic platform before its formal review.
Scientists, technical staff, and officials from the Directorate of Extension took part in the exercise, while Krishi Vigyan Kendras across Kashmir joined virtually.
During the session, farmers facing plant disease and pest-related problems in orchards and field crops interacted live with agricultural experts through the App and received initial guidance for crop management.
The testing session also successfully checked group video call facilities aimed at improving communication between experts and farming communities.
Officials expressed satisfaction over the successful testing process and appreciated the cooperation of KVKs and participating farmers in ensuring the smooth functioning of the platform.
Presentation Session Held for FPO Consultancy Services
In another development, Director Extension SKUAST-K chaired a presentation session involving registered firms for consultancy services related to FPO Business Plan Preparation under the Competitiveness Improvement of Agriculture & Allied Sectors Project in Jammu and Kashmir (JKCIP).
The meeting was co-chaired by Dr. Ashiq Pandit and attended by Dr. Iqbal, FPO Development Officers, and CEO SKIE Mr. Navid Hameed.
Jammu and Kashmir National Conference on Friday criticised the Bharatiya Janata Party after BJP workers staged a protest march in Srinagar demanding a ban on liquor sale in Jammu and Kashmir.
The BJP protest march moved towards the residence of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, where party workers raised slogans calling for a ban on liquor consumption and sale across the Union Territory. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Reacting to the protest, the National Conference shared a strong statement on its official social media handle, questioning the BJP’s stand on liquor-related policies introduced during earlier administrations.
“We fully respect the sentiments of these 20 BJP workers,” the party said in its post while responding to the demonstration.
The National Conference also questioned which government was in power in Jammu and Kashmir when the 2017 Excise Policy identified municipal wards and tehsils as areas for unreserved liquor sale.
The party further referred to the 2022 decision that allowed liquor sale in grocery and departmental stores, asking which administration had approved the move at that time.
The exchange has triggered fresh political debate in Jammu and Kashmir over liquor policies and the role of different governments in regulating alcohol sale in the region.
Bharatiya Janata Party workers and leaders on Friday staged a protest in Srinagar against the operation of wine shops in Kashmir, demanding a complete ban on the sale of liquor in the Valley.
The protest march started from Ram Munshi Bagh in Sonwar and moved towards Gupkar Road, where the residence of Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is located.
During the protest, BJP leaders and party workers raised slogans against liquor sale and accused the ruling National Conference of encouraging alcohol sale in the region.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
BJP Kashmir unit co-media incharge Advocate Sajid Yousuf Shah said the party was demanding an immediate ban on wine shops, saying the issue was connected to the social and religious values of Kashmir.
He said the sale of liquor in the Valley was against the cultural and religious sentiments of the people and urged the government to respect public opinion by imposing a complete ban on liquor sale in Kashmir.
Police later stopped the protesters from moving further towards Gupkar Road near the Chief Minister’s residence.
Srinagar: Crime Branch Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday carried out raids at several locations in Srinagar and Budgam in connection with an alleged multi-lakh rupees land fraud case involving forged documents in the Narkara area, officials said.
An official told KNS that the case was registered under FIR No. 06/2026 under Sections 420 (cheating), 468 (forgery for purpose of cheating), and 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of the Ranbir Penal Code following a complaint lodged by a resident of Humhama.
According to the complaint, the accused, Tariq Ahmad Sofi, allegedly took lakhs of rupees from the complainant on the promise of selling a piece of land in Narkara.
Officials said investigations revealed that Sofi, along with his alleged associate Tariq Ahmad Wani, and in connivance with a former Patwari, allegedly prepared forged documents to execute the fake land transaction.
The accused were reportedly working as land brokers and are alleged to have entered into a criminal conspiracy to cheat the complainant and misappropriate money connected to the deal.
During the course of the investigation, search operations were conducted in the presence of Executive Magistrates to seize incriminating material and gather further evidence, officials added.
Crime Branch Jammu and Kashmir Police has appealed to the public to remain cautious of land fraudsters and immediately report such incidents to the SSP Special Crime Wing Kashmir.
Srinagar: Farooq Abdullah on Thursday said that dialogue between India and Pakistan was the only practical way to resolve long-standing issues and expressed hope that both countries would respond positively to peace efforts.
Speaking to KNS, the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference president said peaceful engagement and discussions were essential for stability and progress in the region.
“Talks with Pakistan are the only way to resolve issues. I hope both the Central Government and Pakistan respond positively,” Abdullah said.
The former chief minister also dismissed attempts to weaken or divide the National Conference, saying the party remained united despite political conspiracies.
He said efforts to create differences within the party would not succeed and stressed that the National Conference continued to stand together.
Farooq Abdullah has repeatedly supported dialogue and diplomatic engagement between India and Pakistan, maintaining that peaceful relations are necessary for regional stability, development, and lasting peace in Jammu and Kashmir.
Jammu and Kashmir Police arrested 806 persons and registered 724 cases under the NDPS Act during the first month of the ongoing “Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan”, Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat said on Thursday.
Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, the DGP said the anti-drug campaign, launched on April 11, witnessed a significant rise in enforcement activities compared to the same period last year.
According to the police chief, authorities seized around 667.5 kilograms of narcotic substances, including 5.22 kilograms of heroin, between April 11 and May 12. Police teams also recovered 19,059 units of psychotropic drugs during the operation.
Prabhat said preventive action was taken against drug trafficking networks, with 24 habitual offenders booked under the PIT NDPS Act.
He further revealed that properties worth nearly Rs 41.85 crore, allegedly linked to narcotics trade, were attached during the campaign. In addition, illegal structures valued at Rs 14.75 crore, constructed on encroached land, were demolished.
One of the major actions during the drive involved the attachment of property worth Rs 6.17 crore in Anantnag district, the DGP said. He added that police also identified and attached properties in Punjab and Chandigarh in connection with narcotics-related investigations.
As part of the awareness campaign, Jammu and Kashmir Police organised 2,401 awareness programmes in vulnerable areas and reached more than three lakh people across the Union Territory.
The DGP said action was also initiated against 151 chemists and druggists for alleged violations linked to drug control regulations. Authorities additionally suspended or cancelled 162 driving licences and 92 vehicle registration certificates.
Officials said recommendations had also been made for impounding 10 passports allegedly connected to drug-related activities.
Highlighting the force’s continued anti-narcotics efforts, Nalin Prabhat claimed that J&K Police ranked first in the country in 2025 in preventive detentions under the PIT NDPS Act.
He said the “Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan” would continue with a strong focus on strict enforcement, public awareness, and dismantling drug supply chains across the Union Territory.
Awantipora : Islamic University of Science and Technology celebrated Mother’s Day with a colourful cultural programme on campus, recognising the invaluable role of mothers in shaping families, communities, and society. The event was organised by the university’s Dean of Students Office through its Cultural Committee.
Speaking as the chief guest, Prof. Sheikh Aijaz Bashir appreciated the university’s initiative and stressed the importance of building a gender-sensitive environment on campus. He also shared his vision of strengthening a student-focused academic atmosphere that supports creativity, inclusion, and social awareness. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
During the programme, Dr. Abid Shalla and Prof. Rumaan Bashir highlighted the important role mothers play in nurturing compassionate, progressive, and responsible societies. They also spoke about the cultural and emotional significance of celebrating Mother’s Day.
Earlier, the welcome address was delivered by Dr. Monisa Qadri, who welcomed participants and guests to the event.
The cultural programme featured a range of performances organised by the university’s Cultural Committee, including:
Solo singing
Speech competitions
Skit performances
Group singing presentations
One of the most appreciated moments of the event was a touching skit and group song presented by students of the Zeba Aapa Institute of Inclusive Education, which received warm applause from the audience.
Another emotional highlight came during a special maternal appreciation segment, where university sanitation staff members shared heartfelt experiences and reflections about motherhood, adding warmth and sincerity to the celebration.
The event concluded with a prize distribution ceremony for winners and participants. The performances were judged by:
Prof Kaiser Giri
Dr Munejah Khan
Dr Tariq Ganai
Dr Asifa Baba
The formal vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Farhana Mehraj Allai.
The programme was attended by deans of various schools, university officers, teaching and non-teaching staff members, students, scholars, and guests.
For millions of students across India, the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) is more than just an exam. It represents years of sacrifice, expensive coaching classes, sleepless nights, and the dream of becoming a doctor. That is why allegations that a 30-year-old student from Nashik leaked the NEET paper nearly 45 hours before the examination have caused shock, anger, and deep concern across the country. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
The controversy has once again raised serious questions about the security of India’s competitive examinations. How could such an important paper allegedly circulate online long before the exam began? Were messaging apps like Telegram and WhatsApp used to spread the content? And most importantly, how many students may have received unfair advantage before entering the examination hall?
Here is a detailed breakdown of what is known so far, how investigators believe the leak may have spread, and why this case has become one of the biggest education controversies in recent years.
What Is the NEET Paper Leak Allegation?
According to investigators, a 30-year-old student from Nashik is accused of being connected to the alleged leak of the NEET 2026 examination paper nearly 45 hours before the exam officially started.
The case reportedly came to light after suspicious material began circulating online through private messaging channels and groups. Authorities are now investigating:
How the accused allegedly obtained the paper
Whether insiders were involved
The role of digital platforms
How widely the paper was shared before the exam
The “45 hours before exam” claim has become the most alarming part of the controversy because it suggests enough time existed for organised cheating networks to operate.
Why the 45-Hour Timeline Matters
A leak a few minutes before an exam is damaging.
But a leak almost two days earlier is far more serious.
Experts believe such a long gap could allow:
Full memorisation of answers
Paid circulation among students
Coaching centre solving sessions
Distribution to large private groups
Organised cheating operations
This is why investigators are focusing heavily on the timeline and digital evidence.
How the Alleged Leak May Have Spread
Investigators suspect the paper may have moved through several stages before reaching students.
1. Early Access to the Question Paper
Authorities are trying to determine how the accused allegedly gained access to the paper before the official examination schedule.
Possible areas under investigation include:
Printing facilities
Transportation chains
Storage centres
Insider access points
In many large-scale exam leaks, the weakest point is often human access rather than technology itself.
2. Digital Conversion of the Paper
Once accessed, the paper may have been:
Photographed
Scanned
Converted into PDF format
Shared as screenshots
Digital files spread much faster than physical copies, making them difficult to control once circulation begins.
3. Telegram Distribution
Investigators reportedly suspect that Telegram groups may have played a major role in spreading the leaked material.
Telegram is often used because:
Large groups can contain thousands of users
Anonymous usernames hide identities
Files can be forwarded quickly
Encrypted communication increases privacy
Authorities are now examining whether organised networks used the platform for mass distribution.
4. WhatsApp Forwarding Chains
After appearing on Telegram or other platforms, screenshots and PDFs may have entered WhatsApp groups linked to students and coaching networks.
Once that happens:
Messages spread uncontrollably
Tracking becomes difficult
Verification becomes complicated
Evidence can disappear quickly
This rapid forwarding system is one reason modern exam leaks become so difficult to contain.
Impact on Honest NEET Aspirants
The controversy has deeply affected genuine students preparing honestly for medical admissions.
Many aspirants spend:
Years preparing for NEET
10–14 hours studying daily
Large amounts on coaching institutes
Multiple attempts trying to secure seats
For such students, allegations of paper leaks create:
Fear of unfair competition
Emotional stress
Loss of trust in the system
Anxiety about merit-based selection
Parents have also expressed concern over the credibility of competitive examinations in India.
Why Competitive Exams Remain Vulnerable
The NEET controversy has again exposed weaknesses in India’s examination system.
Common Security Weak Points Include:
Paper printing stages
Transportation routes
Storage facilities
Insider involvement
Weak digital monitoring
Poor surveillance at distribution centres
Experts say that even advanced security systems can fail if a small number of insiders misuse access.
How Investigators Trace Digital Paper Leaks
One important detail often missing from mainstream reports is how cyber investigators actually track leaked exam papers.
Investigators do not only search for the first person who shared the file.
They also examine:
File metadata
Screenshot timestamps
Compression history
Device fingerprints
SIM card records
Cloud backups
Message forwarding patterns
Even when anonymous usernames are used, digital trails can sometimes help authorities reconstruct how the leak spread from one device to another.
This technical investigation may become crucial in the NEET case.
Major Exam Leak Controversies in India
The NEET controversy is not the first major examination scandal in the country.
India has witnessed several major paper leak cases in recent years, including:
The Vyapam scam
SSC examination leaks
State board controversies
Recruitment exam paper leaks
Each controversy has increased public pressure for stronger examination reforms and digital security systems.
What Authorities Are Investigating
Officials are currently trying to determine:
Whether the leaked paper was genuine
How early the circulation began
How many students received access
Whether organised groups were involved
If insiders helped facilitate the leak
Authorities may also investigate coaching networks and digital communication channels linked to the case.
The Bigger Question: Can Students Still Trust the System?
For many students, the biggest damage is not just the alleged leak itself — it is the loss of trust.
Competitive exams are supposed to reward:
Hard work
Merit
Discipline
Equal opportunity
When allegations of organised leaks emerge, students begin questioning whether honesty alone is enough to succeed.
That is why this controversy has become larger than a single criminal investigation. It has become a national debate about fairness, accountability, and the future credibility of India’s education system.
Quick Summary
Key Detail
Information
Exam
NEET 2026
Main Allegation
Paper leaked 45 hours before exam
Accused
30-year-old student from Nashik
Platforms Under Investigation
Telegram and WhatsApp
Main Concern
Fairness of medical admissions
Focus of Investigation
Source of leak and digital circulation
Conclusion
The alleged NEET paper leak involving a Nashik student has shaken confidence in one of India’s most important entrance examinations. While the investigation is still ongoing, the controversy has already exposed serious concerns about exam security, digital leaks, and the growing role of encrypted messaging platforms in spreading confidential information.
For honest students and families, the case is about much more than one leaked paper. It is about protecting the value of merit, restoring trust in competitive exams, and ensuring that years of hard work are not destroyed by organised cheating networks.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq visited the Anjuman Nusrat-ul-Islam School in Anantnag after eight years and highlighted the importance of balanced education along with strong moral values.
While speaking to students and staff, Mirwaiz said he was happy to finally visit the institution after authorities allowed him to do so following a long gap of eight years. He appreciated the work being done by the Nusrat-ul-Islam Trust for the welfare of students and the wider community. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
He said that the main aim of Anjuman Nusrat-ul-Islam, whether in Srinagar, Anantnag, or Bijbehara, is to provide quality education together with moral and ethical guidance to young people.
Mirwaiz stressed that education and proper upbringing should go together. He said education should not only focus on degrees and jobs, but also on building good character, understanding responsibilities, and developing human values.
He further said that since its establishment in 1899, Anjuman Nusrat-ul-Islam has never worked for profit. Instead, its mission has always been to make education accessible for everyone. He added that more than 60 percent of the students studying in the institution come from low-income families and are first-generation learners receiving education at affordable costs.
Speaking about the role of parents, Mirwaiz said parents also have a major responsibility in shaping the moral and ethical behaviour of their children along with supporting their formal education.
During his visit, Mirwaiz also expressed deep sorrow over the recent fire incident at a Darul Uloom in Anantnag in which a student lost his life. He said he wanted to personally visit the institution and stand with the affected families, but authorities did not permit him to do so, which he described as unfortunate.
Later, Mirwaiz inaugurated a new business venture on K.P. Road and encouraged young people to earn halal livelihood with honesty, dignity, and hard work. He said no work is small or big, and with sincerity and dedication, youth can achieve success and positively contribute to society.
A weekly session of Bazm Literature was organised by the Department of Urdu at University of Kashmir on 8 May 2026 under the chairmanship of Dr. Mushtaq Haider.
The literary gathering brought together students, scholars and faculty members for discussions, poetry, creative writing and literary presentations. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
Faculty Members Attend Session
Among those present were:
Prof. Irfan Alam
Dr. Kausar Rasool
Dr. Mushtaque Siddiqui
Dr. Owais Ahmed
Dr. Rakesh Kumar
Session Begins with Recitation and Naat
The programme began with recitation by Aqib Ahmed, translated by Ikhlas Ahmed.
Hafsa Aziz then presented a Naat in praise of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
Students Present Creative Works
Students showcased their literary and creative work during the session.
Presentations Included:
Afra Jan presented the fiction piece Mourning of Open Doors
Nazima Rasool presented an article on drug abuse titled Drugs
Shafqat Rahman presented the travelogue Sona Murag
Poetry and Classical Literature
In the poetry segment:
Ronq Rafique recited the English poem The Little Wind
Muhammad Imran presented the poem Mankar Urad Se
As part of the classical literature segment, Nazia Mushtaq recited the marsiya Namak Khwan Takalam Hai Fasahat Meri.
Speeches and discussions were also presented by:
Ehtisham
Mehak Mukhtar
Fatima Bano
Dr. Rakesh Kumar
The session concluded with a bulletin presentation by Nadeem-ul-Haq.
Faculty Feedback and Guidance
Dr. Kausar Rasool delivered a critical review of the students’ work, appreciating their creativity while also pointing out technical and pronunciation-related improvements.
He encouraged young writers to continue refining their literary skills.
Presidential Address
In his concluding remarks, Dr. Mushtaq Haider spoke about the objectives of Bazm Literature and highlighted the relationship between thought and conscience in the creative process.
He stressed that both elements are essential for producing meaningful and quality literature.
The session was conducted by Nazhat Yousuf.
Final Word
The event reflected the growing literary culture within the Urdu Department of Kashmir University and provided an important platform for students to strengthen their creative and critical abilities.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Monday reiterated his demand for a ban on alcohol in Jammu and Kashmir, saying action against narcotics alone will not succeed if liquor continues to remain easily available.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of a supermarket inauguration in Srinagar, the Mirwaiz said both drugs and alcohol are harmful to society and should be addressed together. Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
“Cannot Act Against One and Ignore the Other”
Mirwaiz said the government cannot justify taking strict action against drugs while remaining silent on alcohol.
He noted that Jammu and Kashmir is a Muslim-majority region where alcohol consumption is socially and religiously discouraged.
He also pointed out that several Indian states with non-Muslim majorities have imposed restrictions or bans on liquor due to its social impact.
Referring to developments in Tamil Nadu, he claimed that one of the first steps of the new government there was the closure of hundreds of liquor shops.
Demand for Complete Alcohol Ban
The Mirwaiz stressed that the growing drug problem cannot be effectively controlled unless authorities also take action against alcohol.
According to him, liquor is equally damaging and contributes to the destruction of families and society.
He said the anti-drug campaign would not achieve its desired goals without a broader approach.
Concerns Over Anti-Drug Operations
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq also cautioned against what he described as region-biased measures during anti-drug drives.
He expressed concern over the alleged harassment of family members and criticised actions such as demolition of homes for the offences of an individual family member.
He stressed that anti-drug measures should remain fair and not punish entire families.
Earlier Remarks at Jama Masjid
The Mirwaiz said these concerns were similar to those he had raised during his Friday address at Jama Masjid Srinagar, where he had spoken about the increasing threat of drug addiction in society.
Final Word
The remarks come at a time when anti-drug operations are intensifying across Jammu and Kashmir, with growing public debate over addiction, rehabilitation, liquor policy and law enforcement methods.
