Khidmat Centre Operators Protest in Jammu; President Tanveer Haji Demands Monthly Support and Permanent Settlement Policy

President Tanveer Haji

The Jammu and Kashmir Khidmat Centre Association has launched a protest demanding the immediate implementation of the long-promised Permanent Settlement Policy, citing a total collapse of their livelihoods after 16 years of dedicated public service.

For more than a decade, Khidmat Centres have played a vital role in delivering essential government and banking services, particularly in some of the most remote regions of Jammu and Kashmir. The operators have served as frontline workers during major crises, including the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring that citizens continued to receive vital services when most institutions were shut down.

However, with the cessation of banking services, the operators now face an unsustainable future. Their operations have been crippled, and the association asserts that J&K Bank, the designated Service Centre Agency, has failed to secure the future of these vital centres.

Despite several high-level assurances from government officials over the years — including from Dr. Jitendra Singh (MP) — no concrete steps have been taken to formalize the employment status of the operators. This prolonged inaction has left 1,109 highly skilled professionals in a state of deep financial and professional uncertainty.

The association strongly argues that a permanent settlement is not only their rightful demand but also an obligation for all stakeholders who initially established and benefited from these centres.

Speaking on behalf of the association, President Tanveer Haji stated:

“Our demand is clear and just — implement the promised Permanent Settlement Policy. Until this is achieved, the Government must announce Gap Support of ₹50,000 per centre, per month without any further delay.”

The association has now made a direct appeal to the Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for their personal intervention to resolve this critical issue.

Furthermore, the Khidmat Centre Association has warned that if a policy decision is not made soon, they will be forced to intensify their agitation until their legitimate demands for stability, security, and dignity are met.

LG Manoj Sinha Inaugurates CUK Block, Highlights IIT, NIFT, AIIMS as Premier Institutions Built in J&K in Decade

LG Manoj Sinha

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Wednesday said that in the past 10 years some premier educational institutions have been established in Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing during the inauguration of administrative block at the Central University of Kashmir, LG Sinha said the human capital that is being prepared in the universities will surely help in nation building. It is a fact that from past 8-10 years, we have been able to establish some premier educational institutions under the leadership of PM Modi. Be it IIT, NIFT, Central University and AIIMS, J&K has benefited from these institutions,” he said.

He said that the way reforms are being brought into the syllabus will be beneficial for students and the nation as a whole.

He added he sees a bright future of the CUK and also wished to see this varsity among the top universities by 2047. “I want the committe members of the Central University to take the varsity at global level,”

“The students need to study beyond the syllabus and I am sure that with this, the students of CUK will focus on it and will contribute to the national development,” he said—(KNO)

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LG Manoj Sinha Takes Responsibility for Pahalgam Attack, Blames Pakistan for Destabilising Kashmir

manooj sinha

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has taken full responsibility for the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, terming it a “security failure” while asserting that the attack was orchestrated by Pakistan to disrupt Kashmir’s growing economic stability and foment communal tensions.

While acknowledging the security lapse, he highlighted the decline in local terrorist recruitment and emphasized the government’s commitment to countering terrorism.

In an interview to The Times of India, LG Sinha said that the Pahalgam terror attack was a Pakistan-sponsored terror attack. “The intention of the neighbour (Pakistan) was to create a communal divide.” “I take full responsibility for the incident, which was undoubtedly a security failure.”

J&K LG Manoj Sinha Hands Over Jobs to 40 Terror Victim Families, Vows Justice and End to Conflict Narratives

LG Manoj Sinha

In a historic step to deliver Justice to the Terror Victim Families, the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today handed over the appointment letters to Next of Kins (NoKs) of terror victims, at Baramulla.

The Lieutenant Governor had met terror victim families in Anantnag on 29th June 2025 and they were assured that eligible NoKs will receive the jobs within just 30 days. The Lieutenant Governor has fulfilled his promise within 15 days and today handed-over appointment letters to the members of the 40 terror victim families. The process will continue till every terror victim family is rehabilitated.

The family members, whose loved ones were mercilessly killed by terrorists, narrated the horrifying incidents and exposed the Pakistan-sponsored terrorists and their sympathisers.

The Lieutenant Governor reiterated his commitment to ensure that the terror victim families will receive the justice, jobs, recognition and support they deserve after years of suffering.

“Terror victim families, forsaken and forgotten, suffered silently for decades. Stories of their loved ones, brutally killed by Pakistan-backed terrorists are being brought to forefront.

Truth about these families was deliberately suppressed. No one came to wipe their tears. Everyone knew Pakistan-backed terrorists were involved in brutal killings but no one provided justice to thousands of elderly parents, wives, brothers or sisters,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor issued a stern warning to the conflict entrepreneurs and asked them to stop spreading narratives that harms the sovereignty and integrity of the country. By propagating the narrative of terror outfits in Jammu and Kashmir, they are disrupting the peace established with blood and sweat, he said.

“For almost three decades conflict entrepreneurs were ruling the roost and even threatened these families. These conflict entrepreneurs had cleverly crafted a singular narrative that painted India as the aggressor and terrorists as victims. This false narrative has been completely demolished. The real victims of terrorism have now exposed Pakistan and terror outfits and unmasked the conflict entrepreneurs,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor assured the people that those days are over when the family members of dreaded terrorists used to get jobs and the killers of common Kashmiris were rehabilitated.

“We are identifying those elements and removing them from government jobs. We will rehabilitate the genuine victims of terrorism. There are certain elements who, at the behest of terrorist-country Pakistan, are still working to nourish the terror-ecosystem. Appropriate action as per the law will be taken against them and we will realise the dream of terrorism-free J&K,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor said that the administration will now reach the doorsteps of all the families who have been waiting for justice for decades and jobs, arrangements for their rehabilitation and livelihood will be ensured. He also assured thorough investigation into the cases of Kashmiri Pandits who were killed by Pakistan-sponsored terrorists.

“Under the leadership of Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, J&K UT is scripting a golden chapter of inclusive development, peace and social justice. He has paved the way for efficient, transparent and people-centric governance.

Helplines have been set up in districts to register grievances of terror victims. We are receiving hundreds of complaints from the 90s also. In many cases, FIRs were not registered, lands were encroached and properties demolished. I assure the people that culprits will not be spared,” the Lieutenant Governor further said.

The Lieutenant Governor interacted with the families of victims of terrorism and shared their pain and grief.

He recounted the horrific incident of June 9, 1992, when Wali Mohammad Lone’s son, Bashir Lone, was shot dead by terrorists while returning home from a nearby mosque in Fatehgarh village, Baramulla. A year later, terrorists kidnapped Wali Mohammad Lone’s two other sons, Ghulam Mohiuddin Lone and Abdul Rashid Lone; their bodies were never found.

Raja Begum of Lilam village in Kupwara waited 26 years for justice. In 1999, terrorists brutally murdered her husband, Ghulam Hassan Lone, sons Javid Ahmed and Irshad Ahmed, and daughter Dilshada after they refused to shelter them.

We stand firmly with Raja Begum and all the families of terrorism victims. Efforts are underway by the administration to identify all families who have suffered due to Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor urged the people of Jammu and Kashmir, media fraternity and every citizen of the country to support the administration in restoring the dignity of the real terror victim families and securing justice for them. He also appealed for their stories of suffering and injustice to be shared with the world.

Chief Secretary, Shri Atal Dulloo; DGP, Shri Nalin Prabhat; Principal Secretary Home, Shri Chandrakar Bharti; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Shri Vijay Kumar Bidhuri; Deputy Commissioner, Baramulla, Shri Minga Sherpa; Shri Wajahat Farooq Bhat, Chairman, Save Youth Save Future Foundation and other members of the  InFoundation, senior officials and family members of victims of terrorism were present.

LG Manoj Sinha Reviews Amarnath Yatra Preparations, Inspects Disaster Management and Yatri Niwas Complex at Baltal

LG Manoj Sinha

 Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today conducted the on-site inspection of the Disaster Management and Yatri Niwas Complex of Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board at Baltal axis in Ganderbal.

The Lieutenant Governor ascertained the progress of the work being carried out at the site, and directed the officials for timely completion of the infrastructure projects being developed to enhance facilities for pilgrims of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra.

At Domail, the Lieutenant Governor also interacted with the members of the taskforce and staff of BRO engaged in improving and maintaining the yatra track.

The Lieutenant Governor was accompanied by Shri SJM Gillani, MD J&K Police Housing Corporation; Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor and CEO, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board; Shri Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Shri VK Birdi, IGP Kashmir; Shri Jatin Kishore, Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal and other senior officials.

LG Manoj Sinha Visits Sonamarg, Assures Support to Stakeholders Ahead of Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra

LG Manoj Sinha

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today visited Sonamarg and interacted with the representatives of Sonamarg Market Association, Hoteliers, Ponywalas and other service providers for Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra.

The members of the delegations put forth various important matters pertaining to the smooth conduct of the forthcoming annual yatra of Shri Amarnath Ji.

The Lieutenant Governor assured the delegations of due consideration and appropriate redressal of the issues highlighted by them. He also reiterated the commitment of the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board and J&K Administration for the welfare of all the stakeholders associated with the holy pilgrimage.

LG Manoj Sinha Extends Eid-ul-Adha Greetings, Emphasizes Unity and Compassion

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha

The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, has greeted the people on the eve of Eid-ul-Adha, which will be celebrated on Saturday, June 07, 2025.

In his message, the Lieutenant Governor said: “Eid Mubarak! Heartiest greetings and good wishes to the people on the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Adha.

Eid embodies the spirit of sacrifice and forgiveness. Let us reiterate our resolve to strengthen the foundations of unity, harmony and brotherhood in the society and work with love and compassion to ensure the well-being of all.

May this festival spread peace and bring prosperity to all”.

LG Manoj Sinha Visits Poonch Brigade, Praises Forces for Operation Sindoor and Assures Border Rehabilitation

LG Manoj Sinha

Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday visited the Poonch Brigade headquarters, where he met Indian Army soldiers and Border Security Force (BSF) personnel stationed in the area.

During his visit, LG Sinha addressed the forces, saying,” Today, the whole world knows Indian Armed Forces destroyed nine terror sites in Pakistan…Within three days, the enemy came down on its knees and started reaching out to the world…The whole country is proud of your bravery and valour.”

He added, “We are the world’s fifth-largest economy and will soon be the fourth-largest economy in the world. Our neighbour is trying to nurture terrorism with the loans it takes.”

In addition to meeting the troops, the Lieutenant Governor also visited Gurudwara Nangali Sahib in Poonch and offered prayers. On Tuesday, LG chaired a meeting of the unified command at the Raj Bhawan in Srinagar.

Earlier on May 17, the LG, on his visit to Kupwara, took an assessment of the damage caused due to the shelling by Pakistan.

Sinha said the administration is working on a comprehensive plan to seek centre’s help to rehabilitate residents affected by Pakistan’s shelling.

At the border areas of the Tangdhar Sector, the Lieutenant Governor interacted with local residents and assured them of all assistance and support by the administration, as stated in a release.

While reviewing the relief and rehabilitation measures taken by the administration, the Lieutenant Governor was briefed by Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir and Ayushi Sudan, Deputy Commissioner Kupwara, about the ongoing appraisal of requirements and construction of bunkers through Gram Sabhas.

The Lieutenant Governor directed the District Administration to expedite the construction of bunkers to ensure the safety of border residents, according to the release.

“Based on the administration’s assessment, immediate assistance has been provided. But I think this help is not enough. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir and senior officers will jointly prepare a comprehensive plan for the damage caused and the proper rehabilitation of the affected families. It is our collective responsibility to ensure their safety and rehabilitation,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor further directed ensuring an adequate supply of essential services in the affected areas. He also lauded the coordinated efforts of the Administration, Army, Police, and other organisations involved in relief and rehabilitation work. (ANI)

LG Manoj Sinha Assesses Damage in Kupwara, Promises Swift Rehabilitation for Victims of Pakistan Shelling

LG Manoj Sinha

 Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today visited Kupwara and took assessment of the damage caused by recent unprovoked heavy shelling by Pakistan.

At the border areas of the Tangdhar Sector, the Lieutenant Governor interacted with local residents and assured them of all assistance and support by the administration.

He said, the administration is working on a comprehensive plan to seek centre’s help to rehabilitate residents affected by Pakistan’s shelling.

While reviewing the relief and rehabilitation measures taken by the Administration, the Lieutenant Governor was briefed by Shri Vijay Kumar Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir and Ms Ayushi Sudan, Deputy Commissioner Kupwara about the ongoing appraisal of requirements and construction of bunkers through Gram Sabhas.

The Lieutenant Governor directed the District Administration to expedite the construction of bunkers to ensure the safety of border residents.
“Based on the administration’s assessment, immediate assistance has been provided. But I think this help is not enough. Divisional Commissioner Kashmir and senior officers will jointly prepare a comprehensive plan for the damage caused and proper rehabilitation of the affected families. It is our collective responsibility to ensure their safety and rehabilitation,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor further directed for ensuring adequate supply of essential services in the affected areas.

He also lauded the coordinated efforts of the Administration, Army, Police, and other organizations involved in relief and rehabilitation work.

LG Manoj Sinha Reviews Implementation of Three New Criminal Laws in J&K

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today chaired a high-level meeting to review the implementation of Three New Criminal Laws- Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita 2023 and Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam 2023, in the UT of Jammu Kashmir.

The meeting was attended by Chief Secretary, Shri Atal Dulloo; DGP, Shri Nalin Prabhat; Principal Secretary Home, Shri Chandraker Bharti; DGP Prisons Department, Shri Deepak Kumar; ADGP Hqrs/Coordination, Shri M.K Sinha; Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor, Dr Mandeep K. Bhandari; IGP Hqr PHQ, Shri Bhim Sen Tuti and IGP Crime, Dr Sunil Gupta.

The Lieutenant Governor took appraisal of the comprehensive measures taken for the capacity building and training of the Police personnel and officials of other line departments for effective implementation of the new criminal laws that came into force on 1st July, 2024.

He emphasised on dedicated efforts to strengthen the Criminal Justice System and increasing the rate of conviction especially in heinous crimes, anti-national activities and terror-related incidents.

We must ensure transparency in action taken by the police and meet the timelines set for speedy investigation and trial as underlined in the new criminal laws, the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor further directed for comparative study of pre and post era of new criminal laws, and preparing a calendar for the Public Awareness Camps in collaboration with various departments including Information, Education, Social Welfare and Legal Services Authority for increasing awareness among the public regarding the new criminal laws.

The meeting also discussed the progress achieved under various Technological interventions, notification of SoPs and Guidelines, translation of new laws in Dogri and Kashmiri languages, procurement of FSL vans and training of forensic experts, prison personnel and judicial officers.

Secretary, Health and Medical Education, Dr Syed Abid Rasheed Shah; Secretary, Department of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Achal Sethi; Director J&K Judicial Academy, Ms Sonia Gupta; SIO NIC, Shri Jaskaran Singh Modi and other senior officials also attended the meeting.