Opinion

Houseboat partially sinks in Jhelum, family pleads for help

Bihar leaders laud Kashmiris' honesty, say nations can't be governed through religious polarisation

Akhtar Ul Iman and Manoj Vishwas addressed a press conference following their official study tour to Kashmir, where they shared their observations, experiences and the outcome of the visit. The leaders described the people of Kashmir as honest and highly hospitable and appreciated the warmth extended to them during their stay. They also stressed the need for inclusive governance, stating that while governments may be formed on religious frenzy, they cannot be run successfully on such lines, underscoring the importance of harmony, development and people-centric politics.

Lightning strike kills over 60 livestock in Pahalgam

Anantnag, May 21: More than 60 livestock were killed after a lightning strike during late-night hours in the Lanedagen area of Pahalgam in south Kashmirs Anantnag district, officials and local sources said on Thursday. The incident occurred amid heavy rainfall and intense thunderstorms that lashed the area overnight. According to reports, the lightning struck a group of livestock in Lanedagen, resulting in large-scale deaths and causing substantial loss to the affected owners. The animals died on the spot after being hit during the storm, local sources said. The incident left livestock owners shocked as news of the losses spread across the area. Pahalgam and adjoining highland areas witnessed heavy rain and thunder activity during the night, with adverse weather affecting normal movement and outdoor activity. Officials visited the area and assessed the losses. No human casualty was reported. [KNT]

Govt has limited powers, officers taking key decisions: Deputy CM Surinder Choudhary

Handwara, May 21: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary on Thursday said the elected government in Jammu and Kashmir is functioning with limited powers and alleged that major decisions are being taken by the bureaucracy instead of the representatives chosen by the people. Speaking to reporters during his visit to Handwara to condole the demise of the father of Baramulla MP Er Rashid and Langate MLA Sheikh Khursheed, Choudhary said the recent demolition drive in Jammu would not have happened if Jammu and Kashmir had retained full statehood. Questioning the demolition of houses, he said the structures had existed for years and were not built overnight. If these constructions were illegal, where were the concerned departments all these years? he asked, calling the demolitions unfortunate. The Deputy Chief Minister said the elected government does not have authority over senior officers and claimed that bureaucrats are making crucial administrative decisions. He reiterated the demand for restoration of statehood, saying the Centre had promised to restore it after the Assembly elections and should now fulfil that commitment. Choudhary added that restoration of statehood and special status would protect the rights of the people and help avoid such actions in future.

Placed under house arrest ahead of Fateha Khwani at Eidgah: Mirwaiz

Srinagar, May 21: Government authorities placed Mirwaiz Kashmir Dr Moulvi Muhammad Umar Farooq under house arrest late Wednesday evening ahead of Fatiha Khwani at Martyrs Graveyard Eid Gah in Srinagar, Mirwaiz Manzil-Office of Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir said in a statement on Thursday. The access to the Mazare Shuhada, Eidgah has also been restricted by the authorities since yesterday, the statement said. In a post on X, Mirwaiz Manzil-Office of Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir said, Ahead of Fatiha Khwani at Martyrs Graveyard Eid Gah, Srinagar, @MirwaizKashmir Dr Moulvi Muhammad Umar Farooq was placed under house arrest late last evening, while access to the Mazare Shuhada, Eidgah has also been restricted by the authorities since yesterday as well.

Narrow escape for family after Chinar tree branch falls on residential house in Pattan

During the night, strong winds caused a large branch of a Chinar tree to fall on a residential house in Mallah Buchan, Pattan area of Baramulla district, resulting in severe damage to the house. However, the family members narrowly escaped unharmed. The affected family was shifted to a nearby neighbors house. Meanwhile, the family alleged that they had repeatedly informed the concerned department and submitted applications for trimming the dried branches of the Chinar tree, but no action was taken by the authorities.

Former Cuban President Raul Castro indicted on murder charges

New Delhi, May 21: A United States court has indicted former Cuban President Raul Castro on murder charges, amid increasing tensions between Washington and Havana. The indictment comes as US President Donald Trump has pushed for regime change in Cuba, where the Communist leadership has remained in power since Raul Castros late brother, Fidel Castro, led the 1959 revolution. Castro, 94, last appeared in public in Cuba earlier this month, and there is no indication that he has left the island since then or that the Cuban government would permit his extradition. Details of the charges were not immediately available. However, reports suggest the indictment is linked to a 1996 incident in which Cuban fighter jets shot down aircraft operated by a group of Cuban exiles. Trump recently described Cuba as a rogue state harboring hostile foreign military and framed his administrations actions toward the island as part of a broader effort to expand US influence in the Western Hemisphere. From the shores of Havana to the banks of the Panama Canal, we will drive out the forces of lawlessness and crime and foreign encroachment, Trump said during a Coast Guard Academy event in New London, Connecticut. Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said on Monday that Cuba does not pose a threat. The indictment marks a new low in relations between the longtime Cold War rivals.

US lost 42 aircraft during war with Iran

New Delhi, May 21: The United States lost at least 42 military aircraft including fighter jets, drones, refuelling tankers and surveillance planes during its 39-day conflict with Iran, with some reportedly damaged beyond repair, according to a report prepared for the US Congress that highlights the scale and cost of the conflict. The report by the Congressional Research Service (CRS) said the toll could still rise because of classification restrictions, ongoing combat activity and unresolved attribution of losses. The aircraft losses reportedly include some of Americas most advanced platforms: four F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jets, one F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter, one A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft, seven KC-135 Stratotanker refuelling aircraft, one E-3 Sentry AWACS surveillance aircraft, two MC-130J Commando II special operations aircraft, one HH-60W Jolly Green II rescue helicopter, 24 MQ-9 Reaper drones and one MQ-4C Triton high-altitude surveillance drone. The figures emerged as the Pentagon revealed that the cost of military operations against Iran under Operation Epic Fury had already surged to nearly $29 billion. A lot of that increase comes from having a refined estimate on repair or replacement costs for equipment, Pentagon finance chief Jules Hurst III said. US aircraft reportedly lost or damaged in Iran war 4 F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jets 1 F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter 1 A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft 7 KC-135 Stratotanker refuelling aircraft 1 E-3 Sentry AWACS surveillance aircraft 2 MC-130J Commando II aircraft 1 HH-60W Jolly Green II rescue helicopter 24 MQ-9 Reaper drones 1 MQ-4C Triton surveillance drone

Houseboat partially sinks in Jhelum river, SDRF launches rescue operation

Srinagar, May 21: A houseboat partially sank after water entered the structure along the River Jhelum on Bund area in Srinagar on Thursday, prompting a rescue operation by the State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and River Police. Officials said the incident resulted in waterlogging inside the houseboat and caused partial sinking, triggering concern in the area. Soon after receiving information, teams of SDRF and River Police rushed to the spot and launched rescue and evacuation measures. Rescue personnel entered the affected houseboat and shifted belongings to safer locations amid rising water inside the structure. The operation focused on preventing further damage and securing movable property belonging to the houseboat owner. Officials said rescue teams successfully evacuated household belongings and ensured that the situation remained under control. [KNT]

OGW arrested with grenades, posters in Kulgam; case registered

Kulgam, May 21: Jammu and Kashmir police arrested an over ground worker (OGW) with two grenades and posters in Mohammadpora village of South Kashmirs Kulgam district on Thursday. A senior police officer said that the accused, identified as Adil Hussain Lone, son of Mohammad Sadiq Lone, resident of Mohammadpora Kulgam, was arrested near his native village during an operation conducted by Kulgam Police. During the search, police recovered two hand grenades along with some posters from his possession, he said. In connection with the incident, an FIR has been registered under relevant Sections of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA) and Explosive Substances Act, officer said. Further investigation into the matter is underway, he added. (JKNS)

Rare May snowfall blankets Tulail, Drass; rain damages homes in Bandipora

Srinagar, May 21: Fresh snowfall was recorded in the upper reaches of Kashmirs Tulail Valley in Bandipora district, as well as in Drass and Zojila on Thursday, while moderate to heavy rainfall lashed several parts of the Valley, disrupting normal life and causing damage to property, officials said. The snowfall in the remote Tulail Valley near the Line of Control followed a sharp overnight drop in temperatures, covering mountain slopes and residential areas. Similar conditions were reported in Drass and along the Zojila axis. Locals termed the snowfall unusual for the second half of May. Meanwhile, heavy rains accompanied by thunderstorms affected districts including Srinagar, Bandipora, Ganderbal, Baramulla and Kupwara. While the showers brought relief from rising temperatures, they also led to waterlogging and temporary disruptions. In Bandipora, heavy rainfall triggered flooding near Darul Uloom Rahimiya along the Srinagar-Bandipora road, with water and mud entering residential areas and damaging houses. Two houses belonging to Nazir Ahmad Dar and Reyaz Ahmad Dar of Nusoo village were partially damaged. Two persons, including a minor girl identified as Muskaan, sustained minor injuries. One was discharged after treatment, while the other was undergoing treatment at District Hospital Bandipora. Residents alleged the incident was caused by blocked drainage and leaking pipes, claiming that repeated requests to authorities for clearance had gone unaddressed. They also said a drain under construction had been reduced in size, leading to overflow during heavy rain. The affected families demanded compensation and urgent repairs, including restoration of the damaged road and strengthening of protection works. Officials said restoration teams had been deployed, with Tehsildar Bandipora visiting the site to assess the situation. Rainwater also accumulated in low-lying areas of Srinagar and other towns, briefly affecting vehicular movement. Authorities have advised residents in flood-prone and vulnerable areas to remain cautious. The Meteorological Department has forecast intermittent rain and thundershowers across Jammu and Kashmir till Saturday, with higher activity expected over the Kashmir region. Short intense showers, gusty winds, lightning and hailstorms are possible at isolated places. (KNO)

DIG RP Range visits forward LoC village Salotri, reviews border security and operational preparedness

Poonch, May 21: DIG Rajouri-Poonch Range, Sandeep Wazir IPS, accompanied by SSP Poonch and other senior officers, visited the forward Line of Control (LoC) village Salotri in District Poonch to review the prevailing security scenario and operational preparedness in the border area. During the visit, the DIG interacted with police personnel deployed in the forward areas and took stock of the security arrangements, deployment patterns, and coordination mechanisms aimed at maintaining peace and vigilance along the border belt. He also reviewed the preparedness of the police personnel and stressed the importance of maintaining high alertness, seamless coordination among security agencies, and proactive policing in sensitive areas. Appreciating the dedication and commitment of the personnel performing duties under challenging conditions, the DIG directed them to continue discharging their responsibilities with professionalism and devotion towards public service. The visit reflects the commitment of District Police Poonch towards strengthening security measures, maintaining peace in border areas, and ensuring effective policing in forward villages along the LoC.

Driver killed, one injured after vehicle rams into parked truck in Banihal

Banihal, May 21: A Tata Mobile driver was killed on the spot while another person sustained injuries after their vehicle rammed into a stationary truck at Kharpora Chowk on NH-44 in Banihal area of Ramban district on Thursday morning. Police officials said the accident occurred around 6:30 am on the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway when a Tata Mobile vehicle, which was on its way to Jammu from Kashmir, reportedly hit a truck from behind that had been parked on the roadside. They said the driver of the Tata Mobile died on the spot, while the conductor sustained injuries and was shifted to Sub-District Hospital Banihal for treatment. The deceased driver has been identified as Bashir Ahmed Kumhar, son of Mohammad Ismail, a resident of Pulwama district. Soon after the accident, teams from Banihal Police and NHAI ambulance services rushed to the spot and launched rescue and evacuation operations. Police said a case has been registered and further investigation into the incident has been taken up.

Why future of India's energy security depends on building smarter grids

India's power demand is soaring, highlighting the need for smarter electricity grids. These intelligent systems will manage renewable energy integration, ensuring control and stability. Digital twins and AI are transforming grid operations, moving from reactive to predictive. This modernization will reduce outages, optimize investments, and empower consumers.

Bihar MLA Akhtar Ul Imam-led delegation calls on J&K Grand Muft

Srinagar, May 20: A high-level delegation led by Akhtar Ul Iman Sahib, MLA and Chairman, Minorities Welfare Committee, Bihar Legislative Assembly, today called upon Grand Mufti of Jammu & Kashmir, Nasir ul Islam Farooqi Sahib, at his residence and held an extensive interaction on important socio-political, religious and public welfare matters concerning the Muslim community and society at large. During the meeting, detailed deliberations were held on the prevailing social challenges, communal harmony, moral responsibilities of leadership, educational upliftment, youth engagement and the larger role of religious institutions in safeguarding peace, stability and brotherhood across the country. The delegation paid glowing tributes to the visionary leadership, intellectual depth and tireless contribution of Mufti e Azam Nasir ul Islam Farooqi Sahib towards society, particularly his consistent efforts for communal harmony, social justice, religious guidance and constructive public engagement. The members stated that Mufti Sahib has emerged as a powerful and respected voice of wisdom, moderation and responsible leadership whose influence extends far beyond Jammu & Kashmir. Janab Akhtar Ul Iman Sahib highly appreciated the courageous and balanced role of Grand Mufti Sahib in addressing sensitive social and political matters with wisdom, dignity and foresight. He remarked that such influential religious leadership is the need of the hour for strengthening unity, confidence and democratic values within society. The delegation assured Grand Mufti Sahib of their complete cooperation, solidarity and unwavering support in all constructive initiatives aimed at the welfare of the people, strengthening inter-community relations and promoting peace, justice and mutual respect. Both sides also emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts between religious scholars, intellectuals and public representatives for addressing the concerns of the common people effectively. The meeting concluded on a positive and cordial note with a collective resolve to further strengthen mutual relations, public outreach and collaborative efforts for the betterment of society and the nation.

Tax vs Customs: Why MNCs face a growing valuation and compliance battle

MNCs face rising conflict between tax and customs rules on related-party pricing, as Indias tighter digital scrutiny raises compliance risks, litigation and valuation disputes.

Jammu Sizzles Above Normal, Rain Alert Issued for Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Heatwave continued to sweep parts of Jammu division on Wednesday as the Meteorological Department forecast thunderstorms, gusty winds and hailstorms across Jammu and Kashmir over the next two days. According to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar, scattered to many places in both Kashmir and Jammu divisions are likely to witness light rain, thundershowers and gusty []

LG V K Saxena Approves Industry Status for Hotels, Guest Houses in Ladakh in Major Tourism Reform

Kargil, May 20: In a major reform for the tourism sector, Lieutenant Governor Ladakh Vinai Kumar Saxena has approved the grant of Industry status to hotels and registered guest houses in Ladakh, bringing them on par with other industrial units for power tariff, tax benefits, and incentives. Under the new policy, all hotels, guest houses, home-stays, and resorts registered with the Tourism Department will be eligible for industrial power tariff instead of the higher commercial rate. This order shall apply w.e.f. June 1, 2026. The tourism sector is the backbone of Ladakhs economy. Granting industry status was a long-pending demand. This will reduce operational costs, encourage investment, and create jobs for local youth, the L-G said. Have ordered to declare the Hotels & Guest Houses, registered with Tourism Dept in Ladakh, as Industry, that would benefit these units with incentives, concessions and infrastructure support, at par with other Industries in the UT LG Ladakh said. LG Saxena said that The move is aligned with PM, Narendra Modi jis consistent push to strengthening the domestic tourism sector through incentives and policy guidelines. This order shall apply w.e.f. June 1, 2026. I am confident, fulfilling this long pending demand and the consequent incentives, would accelerate the growth of hotel industry in Ladakh, catering to the ever-growing needs of the tourists. This would create an enabling environment for the expansion and strengthening of the hospitality industry and ensure a memorable experience to the tourists visiting Ladakh he said. It is noteworthy that this decision would benefit 1257 hotels/guest houses in Ladakh 1078 in Leh and 179 in Kargil that employ thousands of staff. However, barring a few, most of these hotels remain operational for just 6 months a year and they shut down during the winters. This results in high maintenance costs, often making the business unsustainable. The decision comes following several representations from tourism stakeholders, particularly the All Ladakh Hotel and Guest House Association, seeking extension of industrial electricity and water tariffs to hotels and guest houses operating in Ladakh. Stakeholders had highlighted the increasing operational burden on tourism establishments due to high commercial utility tariffs, especially during the harsh winter months, when heating and water requirements substantially increase. The Department of Tourism & Culture, UT Ladakh, shall function as the nodal department for certifying eligible units and the implementation of the notification. Notably, The 'Industry' status for hotels and guest houses would make them eligible for electricity & water tariffs at industrial rates, which are cheaper than the commercial rates currently applicable to these units. This would also make them eligible to avail concessional bank loans, under the State/ Central Govt industrial policies. Further, these hotels and guest houses would also be exempted from Property Tax. These hotels and guest houses will also be able to access capital incentives, subsidies and support schemes, as applicable to other eligible units, under any Government of India incentive schemes. At present, hotels, guest houses, resorts and homestays in Ladakh are charged commercial electricity tariffs, i.e. at the rate of Rs 5.49 per unit. But with the Industry status, the eligible units will now be entitled to industrial electricity tariff, of Rs 4.10 per unit. Similarly, commercial water tariffs, currently applicable to tourism establishments, range between Rs 28 to Rs 46 per kilolitre, depending upon the consumption slabs, whereas industrial water tariffs range from Rs 26 to Rs 29 per kilolitre, offering substantial relief to tourism units. Significant reductions will also apply to flat-rate water connections. In effect, these incentives and concessions would reduce the operational cost of these lodging/boarding establishments, enhance investor confidence, improve project viability, facilitate access to institutional finance and enable tourism enterprises to avail benefits under the industrial policies and infrastructure support mechanism. Granting industry status to hotels & guest houses will significantly strengthen the hospitality sector in Ladakh. Apart from reducing operational costs and improving investment potential, this historic reform will play a vital role in local employment and livelihood creation and regional development. The hospitality and tourism sector has significant potential to catalyse sustainable economic development and tourism promotion in Ladakh, L-G Shri Saxena said. This reform will also enhance visitor experience and further establish Ladakh as a world-class tourism destination rooted in sustainability, culture and hospitality, Saxena added.

Peace Key To Development, Police Ensured Secure Environment For Progress In J&K: LG

JAMMU, May 20: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday said peace is the fundamental prerequisite for development and credited the Jammu and Kashmir Police for maintaining a secure environment that enabled significant progress in the Union Territory over the past six years. Calling for enhanced efficiency and professionalism, the Lieutenant Governor said terrorism survives on funding, networks, and support systems, which must be identified and dismantled systematically. Until peace is established, the dream of development cannot be fulfilled. In any [] The post Peace Key To Development, Police Ensured Secure Environment For Progress In J&K: LG appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Legislators from Rajouri visit Sidhra demolition drive site, term condition of homeless families heartbreaking

Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Budhal, Javed Iqbal Choudhary, along with MLA Thanamandi Muzaffar Iqbal Khan, visited the Sidhra-Raika Bandi area in Jammu to express solidarity with the tribal families rendered homeless following Tuesdays demolition drive carried out by the administration. The legislators, in an official statement, described the condition of the affected families including women, children, infants and elderly persons as deeply heartbreaking. The sequence of events strongly suggests that the ruthless demolition operation, conducted in scorching heat without regard for basic human dignity, was carried out under the influence of a BJP-backed lobby, they said. They further stated that such actions had raised serious concerns among the people regarding the misuse of authority and politically motivated targeting of vulnerable communities. MLA Javed Iqbal Choudhary appealed to the Lieutenant Governor and the Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir to order an immediate and impartial investigation into the matter and ensure that government officers do not act under political pressure or indulge in populist agendas. He said his preliminary assessment of available records and statements indicated that there was no encroachment on forest land and that the action appeared to be politically motivated. He further stated that if the investigation confirms these findings, the officers responsible for the alleged injustice must face exemplary punishment. Javed Iqbal Choudhary emphasised that, irrespective of political affiliations, all sections of society must unite against the bulldozer mindset, which he said was against the rule of law and democratic values. He asserted that such actions should never be allowed in Jammu and Kashmir. Reaffirming his commitment to protecting peoples rights and dignity, Javed Iqbal Choudhary said no effort would be spared in seeking justice for the affected families and that every possible democratic and constitutional avenue, including approaching the Prime Minister, would be explored.

Heatwave intensifies in Delhi, other parts of northern India

New Delhi, May 20: New Delhi and several parts of northern India are witnessing extreme heatwave conditions as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a red alert for warm night conditions over Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. Temperatures in many areas have crossed 45 degrees Celsius, while hot and dry winds have made outdoor conditions extremely harsh. The IMD has warned that severe heatwave conditions are likely to persist over the next few days across northwest and central India, including Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab, Haryana and parts of Jammu and Kashmir. Banda in Uttar Pradesh recorded around 48 degrees Celsius, while several districts in Vidarbha and Madhya Pradesh also reported unusually high day and night temperatures, offering little relief to residents. Health authorities have advised people to avoid direct exposure to sunlight during afternoon hours, remain hydrated and take precautions against heat-related illnesses, particularly children, elderly persons and outdoor workers. The IMD said that heatwave conditions are likely to prevail over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, southwest Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Yanam, Marathwada and Odisha over the next two days. The Met Department has also predicted thunder squalls accompanied by strong winds over Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Gangetic West Bengal, Jharkhand and Odisha during the day. Jammu and Kashmir, Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, Interior and Coastal Karnataka, Madhya Maharashtra, Konkan, Goa and the northeastern states are likely to witness thunderstorms accompanied by lightning and gusty winds. Heatwave to severe heatwave conditions are likely to continue over northwest and central India during the week and over east India during the next five days.

Leopard scare returns to Ompora Budgam as residents demand urgent Wildlife Department action

'BJP reaping what it sowed': Mufti on Rahul Gandhi's traitor remark on Modi, Shah

Srinagar, May 20: Reacting to Congress leader Rahul Gandhis 'traitor remark on Prime Minister Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, PDP president Mehbooba Mufti on Wednesday said the BJP was reaping what it sowed after years of labelling Muslims and secular people as traitors. Mufti was responding to a question about Gandhi calling Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah traitors, who worked to sell India -- remarks that stirred a political storm. Speaking to reporters in Shopian, the former chief minister brushed aside the controversy over Gandhis remark. Why is there so much hue and cry if Rahul Gandhi has said something? It was the BJP which started calling Muslims and secular persons as traitors, she said. Earlier, they (BJP) used to say go to Pakistan, now they are saying go to Iran. The houses of Muslims were bulldozed, but nobody said a word, she said. Mufti said the BJP was being haunted by its own deeds. They (BJP) sowed the seeds, and now it is coming back at them, she added. Gandhi triggered a massive political row after he alleged that the BJP insulted freedom fighters such as Mahatma Gandhi and B. R. Ambedkar. Speaking at a rally in Uttar Pradeshs Rae Bareli, he said that the Modi governments policies damaged Indias economy. When these RSS workers come before you and talk about Narendra Modi and Amit Shah, then tell them openly that your prime minister is a traitor, your home minister is a traitor, and your organisation is a traitor, he said. Tell them that they have worked to sell out India, that they have attacked our institutions, attacked our Constitution, attacked Dr Ambedkar, attacked Veera Pasi, and attacked Mahatma Gandhi, he added.

We expect more tourist arrivals this year: Mushtaq Chaya

Mehbooba Mufti reacts to Rahul Gandhi traitor remark

Govt renames Anantnag school after Pahalgam tourist guide who died shielding visitors

J&K High Court adopts virtual hearings, suspends LTC amid fuel conservation measures

Srinagar, May 20: The High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh has issued a series of administrative directions, including encouraging virtual hearings, suspending Leave Travel Concession (LTC) facilities and shifting official activities online, in view of the nationwide call for Economic Self-Defence and concerns over rising crude oil prices and energy security. According to a circular issued by the Office of the Registrar General at Srinagar on Tuesday, the measures will remain in force until further orders. The circular stated that with effect from May 21, 2026, the High Court will encourage virtual hearings and virtual appearances by advocates, subject to the prescribed decorum and protocol for online proceedings. It further stated that during the court vacation period commencing from June 8, 2026, the nominated Vacation Benches would hear matters through virtual mode. However, advocates unable to participate through video conferencing due to unavoidable reasons may appear physically whenever the courts function in physical mode. The High Court also directed that no physical administrative inspection or visit to districts shall be conducted until further orders and that all administrative meetings will be held virtually. In another major decision, the LTC facility for judicial officers and High Court staff, except for those already granted the benefit, has been suspended till further orders. The circular clarified that the LTC block period would be extended by one month for every month during which the facility remains unavailable. The circular also stated that the Judicial Academy shall not conduct any physical training programmes. All training sessions, workshops, orientations and related academic activities will now be conducted through virtual mode only. Additionally, officers of the Registry have been asked to pool transport facilities wherever feasible to minimise fuel consumption and ensure optimal utilisation of official resources.

Sidhra demolition drive: J&K govt constitutes committee to probe Forest Rights violations

Srinagar, May 20: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has constituted a fact-finding committee to inquire into alleged violations of the Forest Rights Act, 2006, in connection with the demolition of houses belonging to tribal families in the Raika Bandi area of Sidhra, Jammu on Tuesday. According to a government order issued by the Department of Tribal Affairs, sanction has been accorded for the constitution of a two-member committee to investigate the matter and submit its report within seven days. The committee comprises Director Tribal Affairs, J&K, Mohammad Mumtaz Ali, JKAS, and Assistant Director, Directorate of Tribal Affairs, Muzamil Hassan Choudhary, JKAS. The order states that the committee will examine any violations of Forest Rights Act, 2006, in respect of recent demolition of houses of Tribal families in Raika Bandi (Sidhra) Jammu. The move comes amid widespread criticism and protests following the anti-encroachment drive carried out by officials of the Forest Department, Revenue Department and Police, during which several structures were demolished. The demolition drive had triggered outrage among members of the Gujjar-Bakarwal community and political leaders, with allegations that the action was conducted without prior notice and in violation of tribal rights. The order has been issued by the Department of Tribal Affairs under the directions of the Jammu and Kashmir Government.

NC deceived people despite huge mandate: Darakhshan; says statehood will be restored at right time

Srinagar, May 20: Jammu and Kashmir Waqf Board chairperson and senior BJP leader Darakhshan Andrabi on Wednesday accused the National Conference (NC) of deceiving people despite receiving a very big mandate two years ago, while expressing confidence that statehood would be restored to the Union Territory when the time comes. Speaking to the news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS), Dr. Andrabi alleged that the NC had made promises to secure votes but failed to deliver. They deceived people. Today, you are seeing that deception everyone wants to hold the BJPs hand today, she said. She claimed that many grassroots workers of the NC were now joining the BJP, attributing the shift to Prime Minister Narendra Modi s vision. On statehood, Dr. Andrabi said, What our Prime Minister and Home Minister have said about statehood in Parliament, God willing, it will happen but when the time comes. She also attacked the NC, PDP and Congress, accusing them of trying to keep the people of Jammu and Kashmir deprived of their rights. These people themselves go to the Centre, but they are trying to keep the people here deprived. Today, everyone wants to walk with the BJP, to walk with progress and development, she added. (KNS)

Former VC KU Prof Khurshid, Adv Jehanzeb call on LG Sinha

Srinagar, May 19: Adv Jehanzeb Allaqaband, prominent lawyer and social activist, along with Former Vice Chancellor of Kashmir University, Prof Khurshid Andrabi, called on the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at Lok Bhavan, here. The primary focus of the meeting was an extensive discussion regarding a major upcoming conclave being organized by Adv Jehanzeb Allaqaband. Prof Khurshid Andrabi had a detailed discussion on various education initiatives and the role of youth empowerment in strengthening the social and academic fabric of the region, said a press release. Prof Khurshid Andrabi also praised Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for his efforts and initiatives. Prof Khurshid Andrabi further congratulated the Lieutenant Governor on his proactive role in the Nasha Mukt Abhiyaan. Adv Jehanzeb Allaqaband also congratulated the Lieutenant Governor on the Nasha Mukt Abhiyaan and appreciated his proactive measures in curbing the drug menace to secure a healthier future for the younger generation. In addition to the conclave, the anti-drug campaign, and education initiatives, various other public and developmental issues were also discussed during the meeting.

Eid-ul-Adha: Eidgah Srinagar bustles as people throng the market to purchase sacrificial animals

BJP is becoming one of the largest parties in Kashmir: Ashok Koul

PM Modi, HM Shah have promised statehood to J&K at appropriate time: Darakshan Andrabi

Meloni thanks Modi for 'Melody' during Italy visit

Rome, May 20: Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for gifting her 'Melody' toffees, reviving the light-hearted Melodi wordplay associated with the two leaders on social media. In a social media post, Meloni shared a video in which she could be heard saying, Prime Minister Modi brought as a gift, a very, very good toffee -- Melody. Thank you for the gift, the video caption read. Modi, who was also seen in the video uploaded on Wednesday, burst into laughter as Meloni jokingly referred to the Melody toffee while showcasing the gift. #WATCH | Thank you for the gift, tweets Prime Minister of Italy, Giorgia Meloni She says, Prime Minister Modi brought as a gift, a very, very good toffee- Melody (Video Source: Giorgia Meloni/'X') pic.twitter.com/wbMALD723q ANI (@ANI) May 20, 2026 The hashtag Melodi, a blend of Modi and Meloni's names, was coined by the Italian prime minister during the COP28 in Dubai in 2023 and later went viral on social media following the warm interactions between the two leaders at global events. Good friends at COP28, Meloni had posted on social media with hashtag Melodi, captioning a photograph with the Indian leader. Modi, who arrived in Rome on Tuesday, is on the final leg of his five-nation tour to the UAE, the Netherlands, Sweden, Norway and Italy from May 15-20. He is visiting Italy at the invitation of Meloni to further strengthen bilateral cooperation in areas such as trade, defence, clean energy and technology. The two leaders have maintained close engagement in recent years, with Meloni also visiting India for the G20 Summit in 2023.

Police demolishes 'illegal narcotics property' worth Rs 1.5 Crore linked to drug peddler in Srinagar

Continuing its relentless crackdown against drug trafficking and narcotics-related activities under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, Police Station Lal Bazar today demolished an allegedly illegal two-storey structure along with an adjoining room and washroom constructed on State land at Haka Bazar, Lal Bazar, officials said. The demolished property, spread over approximately 09 Marlas and worth around 1.50 Crore, was found to be linked with a wanted drug peddler namely Arshid Ahmed Sheikh S/o Wali Mohammad Sheikh R/o Haka Bazar Lal Bazar , who is involved in multiple cases under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, includingFIR No. 31/2025 U/S 8/21, 22 NDPS Act of Police Station Janipur Jammu, andFIR No. 50/2025 U/S 8/20 NDPS Act of Police Station Lal Bazar, read a police statement. The demolition drive was carried out in the presence of the Executive Magistrate Khanyar and officials of Srinagar Municipal Corporation. The action was executed strictly in accordance with law as part of the sustained efforts to dismantle the illegal infrastructure and financial networks created through narcotics trade. The entire operation was conducted peacefully under strict supervision.

Srinagar man dies after sustaining 95% burn injuries in alleged self-immolation attempt

Srinagar, May 20: A man from Srinagars Mehjoor Nagar area, who was admitted to hospital with critical burn injuries, succumbed on Wednesday, officials said. Officials told the news agencyKashmir News Observer (KNO) that the man had suffered nearly 95 percent burn injuries after allegedly setting himself ablaze by pouring a flammable liquid at his residence and was undergoing treatment at the hospital. They said the deceased was identified as Zaid Amin (32), son of Mohammad Amin Khan, a resident of Mehjoor Nagar. Meanwhile, cognisance of the incident has been taken and further proceedings have been initiated.(KNO)

Schools evacuated as magnitude 5.6 quake hits eastern Turkey

Istanbul, May 20: Eastern Turkey was struck by a magnitude 5.6 earthquake Wednesday, emergency services said. It hit the Battalgazi district of Malatya province at 9 am and the depth was 7 km, according to the Disaster and Emergency Management Presidency. There were no immediate reports of damage, but TV images showed schools being evacuated and residents rushing outside. Turkey sits on top of major fault lines and earthquakes are frequent. In 2023, a magnitude 7.8 earthquake killed more than 53,000 people in Turkey and destroyed or damaged hundreds of thousands of buildings in 11 southern and southeastern provinces. Another 6,000 people were killed in the northern parts of neighbouring Syria.

Rupee falls to record low of 96.90 against US dollar in early trade

MUMBAI, May 20: The rupee depreciated 20 paise to an all-time low of 96.90 against the US dollar in early trade on Wednesday weighed down by a strong dollar and elevated crude oil prices amid simmering Iran-US tensions. Forex traders said the outflow by FIIs and decline in equity benchmark indices also pressured the rupee. At the interbank foreign exchange market, the rupee opened at 96.89 against the US dollar, then slipped further to 96.90, registering a fall of 20 [] The post Rupee falls to record low of 96.90 against US dollar in early trade appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Hundreds attend Nimaz-e-Jinaza as Er Rashid joins last rites of his father in Handwaras Mawer

Kupwara, May 19: Member of Parliament (MP) Er Rashid Tuesday joined the funeral of his deceased father at their native village in the Mawer Payeen area of Handwara, where hundreds of people gathered to participate in the last rites. The funeral prayer was led by his other son and MLA Langate Sheikh Khursheed, as a large number of funeral attendees assembled to offer their last respects to the deceased. Among those present were senior political figures including Additional General Secretary of National Conference and Rajya Sabha member Chowdhary Mohammad Ramzan, senior National Conference leader and former MLA Langate Sharif-ud-Din Shariq, and several leaders of AIP. Locals from across the area also turned up in large numbers, reflecting widespread sympathy with the bereaved family. Er Rashid, on the occasion, addressed the gathering and expressed gratitude to the people for their support and prayers during this difficult time. Pertinently, Er Rashid's father Khazir Mohammad Sheikh was born in 1940 and was nearly 86 years old. He retired as a senior teacher from government service about two decades ago. Known as a dedicated and proficient mathematics teacher, he taught students across various parts of Kashmir. Earlier Tuesday morning, Er Rashid was released from Tihar Jail on interim bail and directly reached Srinagar Airport before proceeding towards his ancestral village to participate in the funeral rites of his father. Addressing mourners at the funeral prayers, Er Rashid made an emotional appeal asking people to learn lessons from death and reflect upon the futility of hatred, animosity and revenge in human life. He said his struggle has never been against individuals or ordinary people but against injustice and systems that allow injustice to flourish. Recalling an incident from his days as a social activist before entering electoral politics, Er Rashid narrated how authorities had once announced a reward to capture a man-eating animal alive instead of killing it so that its violent behaviour could be changed. Drawing a parallel, he said if society can attempt to reform even a dangerous animal, then human beings who may have committed mistakes also deserve opportunities for reform, dignity and justice rather than permanent hatred and exclusion. Meanwhile, AIP Chief Spokesperson Inam Un Nabi thanked the authorities, civil administration and police administration for smoothly managing the massive gathering and maintaining order during the funeral proceedings.

Anantnag Police Destroy Illicit Poppy Cultivation at Batagund Verinag; FIR Registered Under NDPS Act

Srinagar, May 20: Continuing its drive against illicit cultivation of narcotic crops, Anantnag Police carried out the destruction of illegally grown poppy at village Batagund, Verinag. The action was undertaken by Police Post Verinag in the presence of an Executive Magistrate. The illegally cultivated crop was destroyed on the spot as per procedure. In this connection, Case FIR No. 76/2026 under sections 8/18 NDPS Act has been registered at Police Station Dooru and investigation has been taken up.

Er Rashid hints at quitting electoral politics, calls for peace in J&K

Kupwara, May 19: Awami Ittehad Party (AIP) chief and Baramulla Member of Parliament Er Rashid on Tuesday indicated that he may step away from electoral politics, saying he was seriously considering not contesting future elections. Those who believe only in vote politics will be happy to hear that I may not contest elections in the future. I am seriously thinking about it, though I have not reached a final conclusion yet and will decide in due course of time, he said. Er Rashid made the remarks while addressing mourners during the funeral of his father at his ancestral village in Mawer Payeen area of Handwara. Earlier in the day, he was released from Tihar Jail on interim bail and travelled directly from Srinagar Airport to his native village to participate in the last rites of his father. In an emotional address, the Baramulla MP said peace in Jammu and Kashmir was more important than his personal circumstances. Let me remain in Tihar Jail, but let peace prevail in Jammu and Kashmir, he said. Rashid also spoke about the personal losses he had suffered during his incarceration over the past seven years, saying he had lost several close relatives during this period. Dressed in a traditional Kashmiri *khan dress*, he urged people to move away from hatred and revenge and instead embrace compassion and humanity. My struggle has never been against common people, but against injustice and the systems that allow it to continue, he said. Drawing a parallel from the period before he contested the 2008 Assembly elections, Rashid recalled an incident in which authorities had attempted to capture a man-eating animal alive in an effort to reform its behaviour. If even a wild animal can be given a chance to change, human beings too deserve opportunities for reform, dignity and justice, he said. My political struggle goes beyond issues like Article 370 or statehood and is rooted in the larger principles of justice, dignity and respect, the MP said. He also thanked people who visited his ailing father, attended the funeral, or conveyed condolences. I hold no enmity with the people of India. My differences are only with systems that perpetuate injustice, he added. Rashid further pointed out that many prisoners lodged in Tihar Jail had lost loved ones but were unable to attend their last rites. Expressing concern over the growing menace of drug abuse, he extended full support to anti-drug campaigns and said combating the issue was a collective responsibility.

Key accused gets 7 years jail for radicalising youth, propagating Taliban ideology: NIA

New Delhi, May 20: An anti-terror court in Bengaluru has sentenced a key accused to seven years of rigorous imprisonment for radicalising youth and propagating the terror ideology of the Taliban, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) said on Tuesday. The NIA special court also imposed a fine of Rs 63,000 on Maharashtra resident Hamraz Worshid Shaikh, who pleaded guilty during the trial that began in April 2026. The accused was convicted in a case registered in April 2023. The NIA had filed a chargesheet in October 2023 against him and co-accused Mohammad Arif, whose trial is still underway. NIA investigation in the case had revealed that Shaikh had himself been radicalised into the ideology of the Taliban and Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) terrorist organisations through Pakistani and Afghan contacts during his stay in Saudi Arabia between 2019 and 2022. The probe agency had also identified an online handler known as Hanzala, who was allegedly involved in radicalisation activities through an Instagram account named Kashmir Pages, the NIA said in a statement. After returning to India, Shaikh had allegedly conspired with Arif to identify and recruit vulnerable youth by propagating the ideology of the Taliban and TTP, it said. The duo had also formed a terrorist gang in a bid to join the TTP in Afghanistan to wage jihad and carry out activities against India, the probe agency said.

Jammu Railway Division ticket checking staff reunites missing child with parents

Jammu, May 19: Ticket checking staff of Jammu Railway Division Tuesday displayed remarkable vigilance and promptness by reuniting a lost child with her family at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway Station. While on duty at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra Railway, the ticket checking staff member Dinesh Kumar spotted a little girl wandering alone and frightened in the station premises. Seeing the child in tears, he immediately approached her, comforted her, gave her water and calmed her down. The child had been separated from her family and was too terrified to share her name or address, informed Raghvender Singh, Public Relations Inspector, Jammu Railway Division. Without losing time, the ticket checking staff, according to Singh, informed the authorities and the Railway Protection Force. Simultaneously, continuous announcements describing the child were made through the stations Public Address System. As a result of this swift action, the childs distressed parents, who were searching for her, reached the spot immediately. After completing the necessary formalities and identity verification, the child was safely handed over to her parents. Overwhelmed to have their daughter back safe, the parents expressed heartfelt gratitude to the railway administration and the checking staff for their dedication and compassion, Singh said. Lauding the act of ticket checking staff, in line with passenger service, Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu, Uchit Singhal said, The railway administration is always committed to the safety and assistance of passengers. Ticket Checking Staff Dinesh Kumar not only performed his duty with full responsibility but also set an excellent example of humanity. It was his quick thinking and alertness that enabled a little girl to be safely reunited with her family. I am proud of my entire staff who, along with making rail travel safe, also uphold such sensitivity and spirit of service towards passengers, Singhal said.

India-Italy relations at decisive stage, expanded with unprecedented momentum: Modi & Meloni

New Delhi, May 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President of the Council of Ministers of the Italian Republic Giorgia Meloni have said the relationship between India and Italy has now reached a decisive stage, evolving from a cordial friendship into a special strategic partnership. In an article, jointly written by the two leaders for the Indian and Italian media, Modi and Meloni said that at a time when the international system is undergoing a profound change, the partnership between the two countries is guided by regular exchanges at higher political and institutional levels. Modi is currently in Italy as part of the final leg of his five-nation tour. The two leaders said the bilateral relation is gaining a new and higher dimension that combines the economic dynamism, societal creativity, and millennia-old civilisational wisdom of the two countries. The relationship between India and Italy has now reached a decisive stage. In recent years, our ties have expanded with unprecedented momentum, evolving from a cordial friendship into a special strategic partnership grounded in the values of freedom and democracy, and a common vision for the future, they said. The two leaders said the cooperation between India and Italy mirrors the awareness that prosperity and security in the 21st century will be shaped by the ability of nations to innovate, manage energy transitions, and strengthen strategic sovereignty. To this end, they said they have committed to deepen and diversify the bilateral relationship with a view to pursuing new objectives and pooling the two countries' complementary strengths. We aim to forge a powerful synergy between Italian design, manufacturing excellence, and world-class supercomputers reflecting Italy's position as an industrial powerhouse and India's rapid economic growth, engineering talent, scale, and innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem with over 100 unicorns and 200,000 start-ups, they said. The leaders said this is not a simple integration, but a co-creation of value where the respective industrial strengths amplify one another. They said the Free Trade Agreement between the European Union and India paves the way for increased trade and investment in both directions. We want to reach and exceed the Euro 20 billion target for trade between Italy and India by 2029, with a focus on defence & aerospace, clean technologies, machinery, automotive components, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, textiles, agri-food, tourism and more, they said. In the article, Modi and Meloni said Made in Italy has always been synonymous with excellence worldwide, and today it finds a natural synergy with the high-quality goals of the Make in India initiative. The growing interest of Italian businesses in the production of goods for India and the increasing presence of Indian industries in Italy, numbering over 1,000 from both sides, is a positive sign that will strengthen the integration of our supply chains, they said. The two leaders said technological innovation lies at the very heart of the partnership and the coming decades will be shaped by a technological revolution of unmeasurable scope, marked by advances in such sectors as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, advanced manufacturing, critical minerals, and digital infrastructure. They said India's dynamic innovation ecosystem, coupled with a highly skilled professional talent pool, and Italy's advanced industrial capabilities make the cooperation in the above sectors both natural and strategic. The growing partnership between our Universities and Research Centres will support this. India's Digital Public Infrastructure is already finding resonance with a large number of countries particularly in the Global South, they said. The leaders said AI, in particular, is already impacting societies and the global economy and Italy and India have long been collaborating to ensure that its development is responsible and human-centred. India and Italy also see AI as a powerful instrument for inclusive development, especially for the Global South, where digital public infrastructure and accessible, multilingual technologies can bridge divides rather than deepen them, they said. Building on India's vision of MANAV putting human at the centre of technology and Italy's leadership in promoting a human-centric 'algor-ethics' rooted in its humanist tradition, our partnership seeks to ensure that AI acts as a catalyst for social empowerment, they said. Modi and Meloni said their approach combines India's digital scale with Italy's ethical and industrial expertise, ensuring technology serves human dignity. They said that by sharing best practices in secure digital cooperation, capacity-building and resilient cyber infrastructure, the two countries aim to create an open, trustworthy and equitable digital space in which every nation can shape and benefit from AI. This perspective forms the core of Italy's G7 presidency and outcomes of the AI Impact Summit 2026 held in New Delhi. The leaders said conceiving AI as a tool created by humans for humans means firmly asserting that technology cannot replace individuals or undermine their fundamental rights, nor be used to manipulate public debate or alter democratic processes. Our approach to defending freedom and human dignity in an increasingly interconnected world hinges on this very challenge, they said. Modi and Meloni said the India-Italy cooperation also covers the space sector and India's impressive advancements in space exploration and satellite technology, together with Italy's aerospace engineering excellence, offer significant opportunities for next-generation technology development. They said Italy and India intend to further strengthen their cooperation in sectors such as defence, security and strategic technologies. Our collaboration will help ensure the security of critical maritime routes, strengthen resilience in the face of threats, such as terrorism, international criminal networks, drug trafficking, cyber-crimes and human trafficking, they said. The leaders said energy is another key pillar of our partnership and the global transition towards diversified energy sources requires innovation, investment, and cooperation. Our collaboration along with other countries in key India-led initiatives International Solar Alliance (ISA), Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) and Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA) -- is also important in this context, they said. The two leaders said physical, digital and human connectivity is the thread that weaves us together and both India and Italy are located at the very heart of two crucial hubs of the global economy, the Indo-Pacific and the Mediterranean regions that cannot be viewed as separate spheres, but as increasingly interconnected spaces. As a matter of fact, the leaders said they are witnessing the emergence of what might be termed the Indo-Mediterranean, an important corridor for trade, technology, energy, data and ideas tying the Indian Ocean to Europe. It is precisely within this interconnected space that our bond naturally evolves into a special strategic partnership one that bridges two continents and shapes new global dynamics, they said. They said the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) represents a vision aimed at connecting our regions through modern transport and infrastructure, digital networks, energy systems, and resilient supply chains. India and Italy are also committed to working together with other partners to make this vision a reality. We can address our shared challenges by drawing upon the profound partnership and the enduring cultural ties between our nations, they said. Within Indian culture, Modi and Meloni said, the concept of Dharma evokes the sense of responsibility that must guide our actions, while the principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam the world is one family resonates powerfully in the interconnected digital age. They said such values find a natural echo in Italy's humanist tradition, rooted in the Renaissance, which highlights the dignity of each individual and the power of culture to unite peoples and societies. Our shared vision, therefore, aims to lay the foundation for a strong and forward-looking India-Italy Partnership with our people at the centre, the two leaders said.

San Diego mosque shooters met online, left writings expressing hate: FBI

San Diego, May 20: Two teenagers who shot and killed three people in an attack on a California mosque were radicalised online where they first met and shared white supremacist views, according to authorities and writings they authored. The pair didn't discriminate on who they hated, Mark Remily, the lead FBI agent in San Diego, said Tuesday. The writings, obtained by The Associated Press, include hateful rhetoric toward Jewish people, Muslims and Islam, as well as the LGBTQ+ community, Black people, women, and both the political left and right. Both express beliefs that white people are being eliminated, and one writes about mental health struggles and being rejected by women. Investigators also found at least 30 guns, ammunition and a crossbow at two residences after Monday's attack in San Diego and were trying to uncover whether the shooters had broader plans, Remily said. The shooters, Cain Clark, 17, and Caleb Vazquez, 18, killed themselves, according to police. Family of the two teens could not immediately be reached for comment. Authorities praised the three men they killed including Amin Abdullah, a beloved security guard for slowing the attackers at the Islamic Centre of San Diego and preventing them from reaching 140 schoolchildren just steps away. Imam Taha Hassane said Abdullah engaged the suspects in a gunbattle and called for a lockdown on his radio. He sacrificed his life to stop them from getting inside the classrooms. The shooting was the latest in a string of attacks on houses of worship and comes amid rising threats and hate crimes targeting the Muslim and Jewish communities since the beginning of war in the Middle East, forcing increases in security. Authorities have said there was no specific threat against the Islamic center, which is the largest mosque in San Diego and also houses a school, police said. In Cain's writings, he calls for Muslims to be exterminated. The document includes symbols long associated with white supremacists and Nazis. The two referred to themselves as Sons of Tarrant, an apparent reference to the white supremacist who attacked mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, in 2019, killing 51 people. Muslim American organizations noted that anti-Muslim rhetoric has been on the rise across the US. The two suspects met online before discovering they both lived in the San Diego area, the FBI said. In terms of how the radicalization occurred, we're still digging into that, Remily said. James Canning, a spokesman for San Diego Unified School District, said Clark had been attending school online since 2021 and was set to graduate next month. In 2024, he was a member of the wrestling team at Madison High School. Canning said Clark had no record of disciplinary issues in high school. Neighbours Marne and Ted Celaya said they last saw Clark a few hours before the shooting and that he waved as he got into a car alone and drove away. They described the family as good neighbours and recalled watching Cain grow up. It's unbelievable, Marne Celaya said of the shooting. He's helped me bring in my groceries. Police said the security guard opened fire when the shooters arrived at the Islamic Center and tried to barge inside. As the shooters made their way into the lobby, they wounded the guard, who kept firing at them, forcing them back outside, where the attackers fatally shot him, Police Chief Scott Wahl said. The pair went back inside and searched through rooms that were emptied during the lockdown, Wahl said. They exited into the parking lot, where they fatally shot Mansour Kaziha and Nadir Awad, according to police. The men drew the attackers farther away from the building, Wahl said. Kaziha, known as Abu Ezz, was everything to the Islamic Centre, Hassane said. He was the handyman. He was the cook. He was the caretaker, Hassane said. Abdullah had worked at the mosque for more than a decade. He wanted to defend the innocent so he decided to become a security guard, said family friend Shaykh Uthman Ibn Farooq. Hassane cried as leaders of different faiths embraced him at a vigil Tuesday evening. He told the hundreds who had gathered at a park next to the centre that they were there to celebrate the community's unity. We are here to celebrate the patience, the resilience of the Muslim community, he said. We are here to honour our heroes, our martyrs. The Islamic Centre sits in a neighbourhood with Middle Eastern restaurants and markets. It includes Al Rashid School, which offers courses in Arabic language, Islamic studies and the Quran for students ages 5 and up, its website says. Josie-Ana Edenshaw, who has been going to the mosque for three years, said it was especially welcoming to new Muslims. They've always opened their doors, even to people who aren't Muslim, they invite people to Ramadan dinners, Edenshaw said. Every person at that masjid will smile at you, using the Arabic word for mosque. The center's imam said Tuesday that the mosque and its community wasn't immune to threats over the years. We have never ever expected such things to happen at the Islamic Centre of San Diego, Hassane said. I mean we are used to receiving hate mails, hate messages, people driving by and cursing and all that stuff. But such horrible crime, we have never expected this.

Saw AI-171 pilot's body in seated position still gripping controls, claims crash victim's relative

Ahmedabad, May 20: A man who lost three family members in the AI-171 crash in June last year has claimed that he saw the body of the flight's captain inside the mortuary in Ahmedabad in a seated position with his hands still gripping the plane's controls. The claims of Romin Vohra, a resident of Kheda district in Gujarat, have surfaced amid continuing discussions over the circumstances leading to the crash and the actions taken in the cockpit during the final moments of the flight. Latching on to his claims, an official of a US-based law firm, claiming to be representing families of more than 100 victims, said the crash must be examined by ruly independent experts before blaming a single person for the tragedy. The families deserve the truth, not a quick conclusion that protects powerful companies or institutions, the official said. The London-bound Air India flight AI-171 crashed into a hostel complex in Ahmedabad's Meghaninagar area moments after taking off from the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport on June 12, killing 241 persons on board and 19 on the ground. One passenger survived. It was operated by pilot-in-command Captain Sumeet Sabharwal and co-pilot Captain Clive Kunder. The bodies of victims, many charred beyond recognition, were shifted to the mortuary at Ahmedabad Civil Hospital in the Asarwa area for identification and DNA matching. Romin Vohra, who lost his brother, niece and aunt in the tragedy, claimed he entered the mortuary on June 13 to search for the remains of his family members and there saw the body of Captain Sabharwal. Speaking to PTI over the phone on Tuesday, Vohra, a lab technician by profession, said he was allowed inside because he works in the medical field. My brother, my brother's daughter and my aunt died in the crash. I had gone to identify them a day after the crash. Since I am from the medical field and have some contacts, I got permission to go inside the mortuary, he said. Vohra said Captain Sabharwal's body was kept separately from others on one side of a table. At that time, the body was stiff and in a sitting position, as if he was still on his seat, he claimed. His hands were holding the steering (control yoke or column). His legs were bent the way a seated person's legs remain bent, while his arms were stretched forward, Vohra added. Asked if the controls were still in the pilot's hands, he replied, Yes, the steering was in his hands. Vohra further claimed that the captain was still wearing his uniform, which helped him identify the body. The captain's uniform was there. There was only one captain's body there, which was that of Sumeet Sabharwal sir. I recognised him from the uniform, he said. According to Vohra, the body had comparatively fewer burn injuries on the front side. He was burnt more on the backside. The front side and face were not burnt that much. I do not remember every detail exactly, but one could clearly tell it was the captain's body, he said. Vohra said he could later confirm the identity after seeing publicly available photographs of the pilot. Being from the medical field, we can identify bodies from height, weight and physical structure. Later, when I saw photographs of Captain Sabharwal, I became sure that the body I saw was indeed his, he said. He also described the emotional trauma faced by relatives waiting outside the hospital after the crash. At that time, our own tragedy was so huge that we were not in a condition to speak to anyone. For 10 days, I stayed put outside the hospital on the footpath in terrible condition while waiting for the bodies, he said, adding that his family was handed over the bodies after a successful DNA match. Meanwhile, US-based legal firm Chionuma Law, which claimed to represent families of 115 victims of the crash, called for an independent investigation and cautioned against drawing premature conclusions. The reported account that Captain Sumeet Sabharwal was found in a seated position, still gripping the yoke, raises serious questions that cannot be ignored, Ayush Rajpal, case manager at the firm, said in a statement. A pilot who is holding the controls until the final moment should not be judged by speculation, especially when he is no longer alive to defend himself, he said. Every technical, mechanical, electrical and human factor connected to the crash must be examined by ruly independent experts before blaming a single person for the tragedy, Rajpal said. The families deserve the truth, not a quick conclusion that protects powerful companies or institutions, the statement added. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB), in a preliminary report issued in July last year, said the plane's engine fuel control switches were cut off seconds after lift-off, with one of the pilots in the cockpit voice recording heard asking the other why did he cut off, and the latter responding he did not do so. As per the report, the engine N1 and N2 began to decrease from their take-off values as the fuel supply to the engines was cut off. The Supreme Court in November last year said no one blamed the plane's chief pilot for the crash, and asked Sabharwal's 91-year-old father not to carry any emotional burden.

Israeli strikes on southern Lebanon kill 19, including children and women, officials say

Beirut, May 20: Israeli airstrikes on southern Lebanon on Tuesday killed at least 19 people, including four women and three children, Lebanon's Health Ministry said, the latest in near-daily attacks from both sides that have not stopped despite the fragile, US-brokered ceasefire in the Israel-Hezbollah war. Israel did not comment on the reports of casualties in Lebanon. The Israel-Hezbollah latest fighting began on March 2 with the Lebanese militant Hezbollah group firing rockets at Israel, two days after the United States and Israel attacked Iran. In Beirut, the government said a single strike on the village of Deir Qanoun al Nahr in the coastal Tyre province killed 10 people, including three children and three women. Three were wounded, including a child. The ministry provided no further details about the strike but state-run National News Agency said it destroyed a house, leaving several people under the rubble. Their bodies were pulled out later in the day. According to the ministry, another airstrike this one on the southern city of Nabatieh killed four people and wounded 10 others, including two women. A third strike in the nearby village of Kfar Sir killed five people, including one woman. The latest deaths came a day after the death toll in the latest round of fighting between Israel and Hezbollah surpassed 3,000, and two days after the US-brokered truce that has been in place since April 17, was extended for 45 days. Israel has since invaded southern Lebanon and bombarded its capital, Beirut, and other areas, saying it is targeting Hezbollah infrastructure. Hezbollah, both a militant group and a powerful political organisation in Lebanon, has resisted pressure to disarm, including by the Lebanese government. More than a million people have been displaced in Lebanon by the fighting, with some sheltering in tents along roads and the Mediterranean Sea in Beirut. Israel, meanwhile, has struggled to halt frequent Hezbollah drone attacks targeting its troops on Lebanese soil and northern Israeli border towns. Israel's military said one of its soldiers was killed on Tuesday in battle in southern Lebanon, raising the Israeli troops' death toll to 21 since the latest conflict started. (AP)

Airtel launches priority 'Priority Postpaid' service

Bharti Airtel on Tuesday announced the launch of Priority Postpaid, a new service powered by advanced 5G slicing technology aimed at delivering a superior and more consistent network experience for postpaid customers. The telecom major said the service has been specially designed for users who rely heavily on uninterrupted connectivity for work, entertainment, streaming and online collaboration. To support the rollout, Airtel has upgraded its 5G network with advanced slicing capabilities that improve network efficiency, create additional capacity and enable targeted allocation of resources for priority customers. According to the company, the technology allows Airtel to intelligently and dynamically segment network capacity, ensuring a stable and dependable experience for postpaid users even during periods of high traffic demand. With this launch, Airtel becomes the first telecom operator in India to introduce a service based on 5G slicing technology. Similar services have already been rolled out in countries including the United States, Singapore, the United Kingdom and Malaysia.

DC Srinagar reviews implementation of welfare, pension schemes across district

Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, Akshay Labroo, chaired a comprehensive review meeting at the DC Office Complex to assess the implementation of various flagship welfare and pension schemes, including the Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan Yojana (PM-SYM), JK Samadhan, Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maandhan Yojana (PM-KMY) and the National Pension Scheme for Traders and Self-Employed Persons across the district. During the meeting, the Deputy Commissioner conducted a detailed sector-wise review of targets and achievements registered under the schemes aimed at providing social security, pension coverage and grievance redressal support to workers, farmers, traders and self-employed persons. At the outset, officials from the concerned departments gave a detailed presentation highlighting the progress achieved under PM-SYM, JK Samadhan, PM-KMY and the pension scheme for traders and self-employed persons in the district. The DC reviewed the status of beneficiary registration, enrolment progress, awareness campaigns and overall implementation of the schemes by the concerned departments and agencies. Emphasising the importance of the welfare schemes, Labroo said the initiatives were designed to provide social security and financial stability to vulnerable sections, including workers, farmers, traders and self-employed individuals. He directed the departments to intensify awareness and outreach activities to ensure that all eligible beneficiaries are covered within the stipulated timelines. The Deputy Commissioner further instructed line departments to work in close coordination with field staff and other agencies for conducting on-the-spot registration drives to ensure maximum coverage of the left-out population across the district. With regard to the implementation of the National Pension Scheme for Traders and Self-Employed Persons, the DC directed the General Manager, District Industries Centre (DIC), to begin implementation of the scheme in coordination with the concerned departments and ensure substantial progress by June 10, 2026.

Kashmir copper workers trade union joins KTMF in significant move for artisans

In a significant development aimed at strengthening the collective voice of traditional artisans in Kashmir, the Kashmir Copper Workers Trade Union, representing nearly 15,000 artisans and workers, formally affiliated with the Kashmir Traders and Manufacturers Federation (KTMF) during a ceremony held at the unions historic office in Kadi Kadal, Srinagar. On the occasion, Chairman of the Kashmir Copper Workers Trade Union Jan Mohammad Misgar and President Mohammad Arshid Ahmad Khan were felicitated by KTMF President Mohammad Yaseen Khan for their efforts in preserving and promoting Kashmirs traditional copper craft. The event was attended by members of the unions working body and senior KTMF leaders, including Qazi Tauseef, Bashir Ahmad Rather, Peer Intikhab Alam, Abdul Majeed Khan, Shabir Ahmad Naqash, Javaid Iqbal Bujja and Nisar Ahmad Shahdar. Addressing the gathering, Jan Mohammad Misgar highlighted the serious challenges confronting the traditional copper industry in Kashmir. He said thousands of artisans associated with the craft were facing severe hardships due to the increasing influx of machine-made products, which has adversely affected the livelihood of local copper workers and threatened the survival of traditional craftsmanship. He expressed concern that generations-old artisan skills were gradually declining as handmade copper products struggled to compete with mass-produced alternatives available in the market. Misgar stressed the need for institutional support, policy intervention and collective efforts to safeguard the interests of artisans dependent on the sector. Senior KTMF leader Bashir Ahmad Rather said KTMF has consistently served as a united platform for traders, manufacturers, artisans and other sections of society in J&K. He said the inclusion of the Kashmir Copper Workers Trade Union into KTMF would further strengthen the organisation and provide a stronger institutional platform to thousands of artisans associated with the trade. Speaking on the occasion, KTMF President Mohammad Yaseen Khan welcomed the union into the KTMF fold and assured members of full support in addressing their concerns and grievances. He said Kashmirs traditional copper craft was not merely a commercial activity but an important part of the Valleys rich cultural and historical heritage that must be preserved and protected. Yaseen Khan assured the artisans that KTMF would strongly raise their issues with the concerned authorities and work towards safeguarding the interests of copper workers and traditional craftsmen. Participants expressed hope that the affiliation would open a new chapter for the welfare and upliftment of copper workers and provide them with a stronger collective platform to voice their concerns and seek solutions to longstanding issues.

Qul Fruits, CIV Italia launch institutional platform for protected fruit varieties

In a major development for Indias horticulture sector, Qul Fruits and Italy-based Consorzio Italiano Vivaisti (CIV Italia), one of the worlds leading fruit breeding and nursery consortia, on Tuesday announced the launch of IVAR (Ivar Variety Management and Genetics Private Limited), Indias first dedicated institutional platform for protected fruit varieties and genetics management. The announcement was made during a launch event held in Srinagar in the presence of growers, scientists, nursery operators, policymakers and stakeholders associated with the temperate fruit sector. The press conference was addressed by Khuram Mir, Founder of Qul Fruits, Federico Stanzani, Managing Director of CIV Italia, and Pier Filippo Tagliani, Vice Chairman of CIV. IVAR has been established as a strategic joint venture between Qul Fruits and CIV Italia to create a structured and globally aligned framework for varietal introduction, evaluation, licensing, stewardship and breeder protection in India, with an initial focus on the temperate fruit-growing regions of Jammu and Kashmir and the wider Himalayan belt. The event was attended by Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary), Agriculture Production Department, Shailendra Kumar; Vice Chancellor SKUAST-K, Dr Nazir Ahmad Ganai; Director ICAR-Central Institute of Temperate Horticulture (CITH), Dr Mahendra Kumar Verma; and Deputy Director Horticulture, Javed Ahmad Bhat. Speakers at the event said Indias horticulture sector has long faced challenges related to fragmented varietal access, unregulated propagation systems, weak breeder rights enforcement and limited access to advanced global fruit genetics. IVAR aims to address these gaps by developing a professionally managed ecosystem benefiting breeders, growers, nurseries, markets and consumers. The platform will facilitate the scientific and lawful introduction of protected fruit varieties into India through internationally aligned systems of licensing, traceability, quality assurance and varietal governance. It will also work closely with nurseries, orchardists and other stakeholders to promote responsible varietal deployment and long-term sustainability in the horticulture sector. Speaking on the occasion, Qul Fruits founder Khuram Mir said Kashmir and the Himalayan region possess the climate, heritage and expertise required to produce world-class fruit, but lacked a trusted institutional framework connecting growers with advanced global genetics and varietal systems. Through IVAR, we are building a long-term platform that brings together global science, breeder confidence and farmer participation in a transparent and future-oriented manner, he said. Qul Fruits, a full-stack horticulture enterprise operating across orchard development, post-harvest infrastructure, storage, marketing and distribution, brings extensive farmer integration and implementation capabilities to the partnership, while CIV Italia contributes decades of expertise in fruit breeding, genetics, varietal licensing and intellectual property stewardship.

KCC&I seeks special OTS scheme, relief for Kashmir business community

President of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCC&I), Javid Ahmad Tenga, on Monday called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and discussed a range of issues concerning trade, commerce, horticulture, tourism and industry in J&K. Tenga was accompanied by Executive Committee Member of KCC&I and President of JKPICCA, Bashir Ahmad Naik. During the meeting, the KCC&I President highlighted several pressing concerns confronting the business community and urged the Lieutenant Governor to take necessary measures for the revival and strengthening of economic activity in the Union Territory. Tenga raised issues related to the horticulture sector, particularly the challenges being faced by Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage units. He also drew attention to the losses suffered by fruit growers due to recent hailstorms in various parts of Kashmir and sought adequate compensation and relief for the affected orchardists. The KCC&I President also discussed matters concerning trade and industry and stressed the need for creating a more conducive business environment to facilitate investment and economic growth in the Union Territory. Tourism-related concerns also came up during the meeting, with Tenga emphasising the importance of sustained promotional campaigns, infrastructure development and policy support to revive tourist footfall and safeguard the interests of stakeholders associated with the sector. He further urged the government to announce a special One Time Settlement (OTS) scheme by J&K Bank for the business community, traders and entrepreneurs affected by prolonged economic distress. Tenga said such a relief measure would provide much-needed financial respite to struggling businesses and help revive economic activity across Jammu and Kashmir. The Lieutenant Governor gave a patient hearing to the issues raised by the KCC&I President and assured that the concerns projected during the meeting would be examined sympathetically.

Fuel dispensing continues uninterrupted across J&K: SCL J&K Oil Industry

State Level Coordinator- Oil Industry J&K and Ladakh, Himanshu Sharma has stated that the public sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) and Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) continue to maintain uninterrupted supplies of Petrol (MS), Diesel (HSD) and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) across Jammu and Kashmir, despite the prevailing global uncertainties impacting the oil and gas sector. Sharma, in a press statement, informed that the oil industry remained fully geared to ensure seamless availability of fuel through an extensive supply network comprising terminals, depots, LPG bottling plants and retail outlets. Fuel dispensing operations are continuing smoothly across all outlets in Jammu and Kashmir and the supplies are being maintained without any restrictions, in line with prescribed safety and operational norms, Sharma said, adding that adequate stocks of petroleum products were available across the supply chain and replenishment was being carried out continuously to meet the demand efficiently. He informed that LPG supplies to domestic consumers were also being maintained normally and deliveries were progressing smoothly across the Union Territory. The State Level Coordinator Himanshu Sharma further said that the OMCs were ensuring uninterrupted energy access to citizens by closely coordinating on logistics, stock positioning and distribution planning. He appealed to the consumers to continue with the normal purchasing behaviour, avoid panic buying and rely solely on the official communications issued by OMCs related to fuel availability. Sharma stressed that the overall supply situation remained stable and under constant monitoring.

NIT Srinagar innovators steal spotlight at AAROHAN 2026

The Innovation, Incubation & Entrepreneurship Development (IIED) Centre of National Institute of Technology (NIT) has earned accolades for its impressive participation in the prestigious AAROHAN 2026 Hackathon & PPT Competition organised by the Directorate of Youth Services and Sports (DYSS) at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC). Under the leadership of Prof. Babar Ahmad, Head IIED Centre, a contingent of students, innovators and incubatees from the institute presented a series of innovative prototypes and technology-driven solutions addressing challenges in agriculture, robotics, mobility, artificial intelligence and automation. The projects showcased included a Saffron Processing Machine by Tariq Ahmad Bhat, Walnut De-hulling and Washing Machine by Aqib Abdullah, Haptic Technology-based Virtual Environment by Ubaid Hamid, Drone Technology by Abaan Habib, and an Optimisation of 5-DOF Robotic Arm by Rayees Ahmad. Other major innovations included an Automated Solar Grass Cutter developed by Shailendra Kumar, Abhishek Gupta, Saurabh Kumar and Gadari Poornima, Wheel AI shelf-life optimisation model by Basar Qari, Curve Electric urban mobility solution by Sheikh Yameen and Zubair Ahmad Bhat, and a Stylus Guided 2R Manipulator based on Haptic Technology by Muntazir Ahmad. Mr. Irfan Sidiq Sofi coordinated the participation of the team. In his message, Director NIT Srinagar, Prof. Binod Kumar Kanaujia, congratulated the participating students and faculty members for their outstanding representation and said the institute is committed to fostering a strong culture of innovation and entrepreneurship among youth. These young innovators have demonstrated how technology and creativity can be harnessed to address real-world problems. Their participation at AAROHAN 2026 reflects the growing research and innovation ecosystem at NIT Srinagar, he said. Institute's Registrar, Prof. Atikur Rehman said the institute remains focused on encouraging students to translate ideas into impactful technologies. The innovative projects displayed by our students are a testimony to their talent, dedication and technical excellence. We are proud to see our students making meaningful contributions through innovation-driven solutions, he said. Prof. Babar Ahmad expressed gratitude to the administration of NIT Srinagar for extending continuous support to the IIED Centre and encouraging young innovators to participate in national-level competitions and technology events. He said the guidance and encouragement from the institutes leadership has played a crucial role in strengthening the culture of innovation, incubation and entrepreneurship among students. Meanwhile, prototypes attracted significant attention from visitors, experts and organisers during the three-day event, with several projects being appreciated for their practical relevance and local applicability.

Sidhra anti-encroachment drive triggers backlash | Who said what

Minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment, Javed Ahmed Rana Tuesday announced that he had ordered an inquiry into, what he described as, illegal eviction drive in Sidhra area in Jammu outskirts and would take action against all those from the forest department involved in it. Rana, while speaking to media persons after visiting the drive spot and meeting the affected families, said, This was absolutely an illegal and unjust action. Ive ordered an inquiry and will not spare those involved in this illegal act. I will take action against the officials of the forest department, involved in the eviction drive. He asserted that he would take up the matter with the Chief Minister to seek justice for the members of the nomadic community, living here for the past fifty years. Alleging that the Police committed excesses against the unarmed people, Rana requested the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who oversees law and order, to order registration of an FIR against the guilty Police officers who did not allow the people to offer prayers. The Minister for Forest, Ecology and Environment said, As per revenue records available with me, this is revenue land belonging to these people and not the forest land. I have asked the agitated people, who have a monumental contribution in keeping J&K India with India with their sacrifices, to maintain calm despite this provocative act. Ive assured them that their losses will be compensated and the Department of Tribal Affairs will ensure their rehabilitation. Justice will be disseminated to them and the action will be taken against those guilty. Earlier, while carrying out an anti-encroachment drive in the Raika Bandi forest belt in Jammu outskirts, the officials of Forest Department, Revenue department and the Police in a joint operation demolished over 30 structures (both Kachcha and concrete structures) on Tuesday. The officials stated that around 60 kanals (around 3 Hectares) of prime forest land in Compartment No 66/B was retrieved in the drive that lasted around four hours. The drive was conducted by the officials of the Forest department, revenue department, Forest Protection Force, Police personnel, officers of the belt force and district administration in the presence of First-Class Magistrates early morning in the forest land situated on the lower side of Mohmaya Mandir, opposite Environment Park, Bandhi area, under the jurisdiction of Police Station Bagh-e-Bahu. Heavy deployment of Police and other security forces was made to ensure peaceful operation. The action triggered protests by the affected families, which claimed that the drive was illegal as it was conducted without prior notices. However, the government officials have contested this claim stating that the people there were already notified to vacate encroached land. They (officials) conducted this drive in the name to contain the menace of Chitta. Our submission to the Lieutenant Governor is Was the whole colony involved in it? Why were all houses demolished? This is injustice, one of the members of aggrieved families maintained. The families alleged that they had been living in the area for the last six generations and their names were there in 1952 voter lists. Minister for Forests condemned the action on his social media handle as well and stated that he was deeply shocked and outraged by the clandestine, unilateral demolition of homes in Sidhra, Jammu by the LG administration. Decades of heritage of our innocent Gujjar-Bakarwal families has been reduced to rubble without taking the elected, popular government or my Ministry into confidence. This is not a mere regulatory drive; it is a targeted, cruel eviction explicitly aimed at terrorising and marginalizing our nomadic tribal communities who have protected these lands for over half a century, Rana posted. He said, We will not stand by as silent spectators to this selective harassment and high-handedness. I am immediately taking this up at the highest level with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Sahib to demand an immediate halt, an institutional inquiry against the responsible officers and officials, and full rehabilitation for the affected families. Our people deserve justice, not displacement! Drive targeted, unacceptable: MP Mian Altaf Senior National conference leader and Member of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmed has strongly condemned the forest departments action against nomadic tribal-community in Sidhra area of Jammu where atleast 20 residential structures were demolished. Mian Altaf in a statement issued here on Tuesday has strongly condemned the demolition of Gujar Kothas and hutments in Sidhra Jammu in the guise of so called anti encroachment drive. The tribal community in Jammu and Kashmir was already in the grip of fear and insecurity due to the many such incidents in Jammu and the latest incident of demolishing their temporary structures in Jammu added to their worries and send shock waves in the entire nomadic community afresh he said. I strongly condemn the demolition of several residential structures belonging to poor tribal people in Sidhra Jammu today, who have been putting up there for decades. This high handedness by the administration and forest Deptt is unacceptable Mian Altaf said. Mian Altaf said that these nomadic families over decades to the hilly areas stay in several places near grasslands where they have grazed their cattle for centuries , adding that the-fact which the authorities should verify first before blindly going for their selective targeting. He said they have no other source of livelihood except grazing of cattle and authorities should think thrice before evicting them from their grazing land. Mian Altaf urged the Government to probe into the incident and administration must issue instructions to stop this immediately. He also sought resettlement of the affected families. Unjustified, insensitive, Tarigami slams demolition drive CPI(M) leader and MLA Kulgam Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami on Tuesday criticised the demolition of shelters belonging to tribal and nomadic families in the Sidhra area of Jammu, calling the action unjustified and insensitive. Gujjar and Bakarwal families dependent on cattle rearing and seasonal migration were already living in difficult circumstances and such actions only add to their hardship. The affected families have been staying in these areas for years. Any move that leaves poor people without shelter must be viewed seriously and handled with humanity, Tarigami said in a statement. He urged the administration to stop such drives, review the matter properly and ensure relief and rehabilitation for the affected families. He added that tribal communities should not be made to feel insecure or targeted. Sidhra demolition drive ruthless: Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari criticised the demolition drive in Jammus Sidhra on Tuesday, during which authorities demolished more than two dozen hutments and temporary structures, triggering protests by affected families who alleged that the drive was unjustified, ruthless, and biased against a particular community. In his statement, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said, The manner in which the Sidhra demolition drive was carried out is deeply concerning. How could the authorities allow such a brutal and arbitrary demolition of the residential dwellings? He further said, Reports suggest that the operation continued for nearly four hours in an area largely inhabited by members of the nomadic Gujjar community, with homes and shelters demolished in a ruthless manner. Under what law can officials carry out such forced evictions without due process? Many of the affected families claim they had been living there for years. If that is the case, the matter should have been handled with great care and strictly in accordance with the law and established guidelines, he added. Apni Party chief went on to say, I have seen videos in which affected people clearly state that they were not even served prior notices before the demolition was carried out. If this is true, it raises extremely serious questions about the legality of the entire exercise. Expressing his concern over the allegations that the drive was conducted in a biased manner, targeting a particular community, Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari said, The most disturbing aspect is the growing perception that this drive was carried out with bias, targeting a particular community. This may not be true, but even such a perception can damage our social fabric and the hard-earned peace and normalcy in the Union Territory. I am deeply disturbed by this incident not only because families allege they were rendered homeless and left on the roads without shelter, but also because such harsh and insensitive actions send a deeply troubling message to the people, he added. Urging Chief Minister to intervene into the matter, Mr Bukhari said, I urge the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to personally intervene in this matter without delay, order a fair and transparent inquiry, ensure justice for the affected families, and take concrete steps to ensure that such incidents are never repeated. After all, the fact remains that this so-called anti-encroachment drive was jointly carried out by the Forest Department, Forest Protection Force, and Revenue Department all functioning under the elected government. Therefore, a government carrying a public mandate cannot evade accountability and responsibility for this disturbing action, the statement added. Treat matter with seriousness, explain who ordered demolitions: Sajad Lone to Govt J&K Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone on Tuesday strongly condemned the fresh wave of demolitions in Sidra Jammu, terming the developments deeply disturbing and demanding an immediate explanation from the government on who authorised the action. In his statement, Lone questioned the government's silence and called on the administration to treat the matter with the gravity it deserves. The news coming in from Sidra is disturbing to say the least. There have been demolitions yet again. Can the government please for once treat the matter with seriousness that it deserves and explain who ordered the demolitions. If it is not them then who? And what are they going to do about it he said. Peoples Conference President was particularly scathing in highlighting what he described as a glaring contradiction in the government's conduct. He recalled that the same administration had put on what he called a heatre of wailing and crying over demolitions carried out in Jammu, projecting deep outrage for public consumption, only to then defend those very demolitions in the Legislative Assembly when questioned, claiming that all prescribed norms and procedures had been duly followed. ...I remember that this government enacted theatre of wailing and crying over demolitions in Jammu. And in the assembly when a question was asked, they defended the same saying all norms and procedures were followed, Lone stated pointedly. Lone made clear that his party would not remain a silent spectator to such conduct. I condemn the demolitions, he further added. Meanwhile, senior leader and Secretary General of the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference, Imran Reza Ansari also expressed strong concern over the demolition drive carried out by the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department in Sidhra, Jammu. In a tweet on X, Imran Reza Ansari wrote, What exactly is happening in Sidhra? A demolition drive carried out by the JK Forest Department against poor Gujjar families has now triggered outrage across J&K. If these structures were illegal, then how were people allowed to live there for decades in the first place? Many families allege they were not even served proper notices before their homes were demolished. In the tweet he added, What makes this even more ironic is that the very person heading the department is now out protesting publicly. If the department itself carried out the drive, then what exactly is his responsibility? Governance cannot work like this. Action against encroachment cannot become action only against the poor & vulnerable while influential land grabbers remain untouched. This needs to stop!! PCs Imran RezaAnsari questions Sidhra demolition drive Senior leader and Secretary General of the Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference, Imran Reza Ansari, on Tuesday expressed strong concern over the demolition drive carried out by the Jammu and Kashmir Forest Department in Sidhra, Jammu. In a tweet on X, Imran Reza Ansari wrote, What exactly is happening in Sidhra? A demolition drive carried out by the JK Forest Department against poor Gujjar families has now triggered outrage across J&K. If these structures were illegal, then how were people allowed to live there for decades in the first place? Many families allege they were not even served proper notices before their homes were demolished. In the tweet he added, What makes this even more ironic is that the very person heading the department is now out protesting publicly. If the department itself carried out the drive, then what exactly is his responsibility? Governance cannot work like this. Action against encroachment cannot become action only against the poor & vulnerable while influential land grabbers remain untouched. This needs to stop!! Govt cannot keep on saying we dont know: MLA Mehraj Malik MLA Doda Mehraj Malik on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on the J&K government over the ongoing demolition drive in Sidhra, Jammu, questioning its accountability on key governance issues. In a post on X, MLA Doda Mehraj Malik wrote. The present government cannot keep saying we dont know about every issue. Demolition drives at Sidhra are happening under their watch. If the government has no control over forest demolitions, electricity, police, revenue or even the collapsing health sector, then what exactly is this government doing People voted for governance, not excuses. The Chief Minister @OmarAbdullah must answer the people honestly and take responsibility instead of shifting blame.

J&K High Court quashes FIR against former Ranji Cricketer

Srinagar, May 19: The High Court of J&K and Ladakh has quashed an FIR registered against the former cricketer over allegations of submitting a fake date of birth certificate to secure registration for the Ranji Trophy. Underscoring that criminal law cannot be permitted to be used as an instrument of harassment or for settling internal institutional disputes, a bench comprising Justice Wasim Sadiq Nargal quashed FIR No. 26/2023 registered by the Crime Branch, Kashmir, against the cricketer Majid Yaqoob Dar. The former cricketer had petitioned, seeking the court's intervention to quash the FIR. Details submitted before the court revealed that the FIR originated from a complaint filed by the then Chief Executive Officer of the Jammu and Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) in 2020 wherein he had alleged that Dar had falsely projected his date of birth as December 30, 1978 instead of December 30, 1970 in order to obtain registration and benefits related to the Ranji Trophy. The court noted that an internal inquiry conducted by JKCA had found the allegations to be baseless and motivated by internal disputes within the association. The Sub-Committee of JKCA had informed the Crime Branch that no material supporting the allegations could be traced in official records and recommended closure of the complaint. The Court also took note of the statement of Member Administration of JKCA, Brigadier Anil Gupta (Retd), who stated before the Registrar Judicial that the association did not wish to pursue the prosecution any further and sought closure of the case. Once the complainant association itself had concluded that the allegations were unfounded and unsupported by official records, continuation of criminal proceedings would amount to abuse of the process of law, the court noted. The Court held that it could not overlook that criminal law could not be permitted to be used as an instrument of harassment or for settling internal disputes of an institution. Once the complainant itself, after examining the entire matter through its internal mechanism, has found the allegations to be baseless, unfounded and unsupported by the official record, continuation of criminal proceedings would serve no useful purpose and would amount to abuse of the process of law. The Court observed that it was also conscious of the settled principle that criminal law cannot be permitted to degenerate into a weapon of persecution or be utilized for oblique purposes arising out of personal or institutional rivalries. The court concluded that that the material brought on record prima facie reflected that the impugned proceedings stemmed from internal disputes prevailing within the Association at the relevant point of time rather than from any genuine criminal misconduct attributable to the petitioner and quashed the FIR.

J&K Sports Council wraps up KCFL football trials across Kashmir

The Kashmir Champions Football League (KCFL) football trials organised by the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council concluded on Tuesday with the final leg of selections held in the South Kashmir districts of Anantnag, Kulgam and Pulwama. The large-scale football talent hunt, as per a statement, witnessed massive participation from youngsters across the Valley and is being seen as one of the biggest grassroots football initiatives held in Jammu & Kashmir in recent years. The trial process, which started on 13 May, covered ten districts, including Ganderbal, Shopian, Bandipora, Kupwara, Baramulla, Srinagar, Budgam, Pulwama, Kulgam and Anantnag. Grounds at different venues remained packed with aspiring footballers hoping to make it into the KCFL structure. The Kashmir Champions Football League (KCFL) trials witnessed an overwhelming response from footballers across the Valley, with a total of 1,067 registrations recorded from 10 districts of Kashmir. Srinagar registered the highest participation with 311 entries, followed by Baramulla with 263 registrations. Budgam recorded 98 registrations, while Ganderbal and Bandipora witnessed 83 and 82 registrations, respectively. Shopian registered 58 participants, followed by Anantnag with 51, Kulgam with 48, Kupwara with 40, and Pulwama with 33 registrations. The trial programme commenced in district Ganderbal and later expanded district by district as teams of selectors and officials travelled across Kashmir to assess local talent. The J&K Sports Councils idea behind the initiative was to create a proper football pathway for young players who often lack exposure despite possessing talent and passion for the game. J&K Sports Councils KCFL initiative is aimed at strengthening grassroots football and keeping youth positively engaged through organised sports activities. The programme is also part of the wider Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir campaign focused on youth outreach and awareness. The mega launch of the football league will be announced soon with information on venue and date of the matches. With the completion of the district trials, selected players will now move into the next phase of the KCFL competition structure, giving young footballers from across Kashmir a bigger platform to showcase their abilities.

Dull markets, poor animal sales mar Eid mood in Shopian

Shopian, May 19: The festive buzz usually associated with Eid-ul-Adha is largely missing from markets across south Kashmirs Shopian district this year, with traders reporting poor sales of sacrificial animals and sluggish business activity ahead of the festival. Markets across the district are witnessing thin footfall, with shopkeepers attributing the slowdown to rising prices, financial uncertainty, and concerns linked to the ongoing conflict in West Asia. Tariq Ahmad Mir, owner of Bright Kitchen Ware in Batapora, Shopian, said prices of several household items have increased sharply in recent months. Many kitchenware items have witnessed a sudden rise in prices, and customers are holding back from making purchases, he said. People are buying only essential items and avoiding unnecessary spending due to financial uncertainty. Sacrificial animal markets are also witnessing weak sales this Eid season, adding to the gloom in local markets. Farooq Ahmad, a livestock dealer, said sales have declined by nearly 70 percent compared to previous years. People are not buying animals the way they used to earlier. Most customers are either delaying purchases or returning without buying because of financial stress and rising expenses, he said. Another livestock dealer said traders who had brought animals from outside districts were struggling to even recover transportation and feeding costs as demand remained far below expectations in the run-up to Eid. Similarly, bakeries and readymade garment shops across the district are witnessing a sharp downturn in business ahead of the festival. Shopkeepers said customer footfall has remained unusually low compared to previous years, with many families restricting purchases to essentials. Usually, markets remain crowded in the days leading up to Eid, but this year business is extremely dull. People are purchasing only bare essentials and avoiding extra spending, said a readymade garment shop owner. Traders said rising inflation and economic uncertainty have significantly affected festive shopping, dampening the traditional Eid rush witnessed in Kashmir markets every year.

Srinagar among 18 cities to get water metro station under Phase-I

Jammu, May 19:Srinagar the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir is among 18 cities across the country, where the Centre has planned rollout of the much-anticipated water metro services in phase-I. This has been revealed by the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, while chairing a review meeting on the rollout of the water metro services in the country. The Centre has advanced plans to roll out water metro services in 18 cities, with Guwahati, Srinagar, Patna, Varanasi, Ayodhya and Prayagraj among those identified for phase I, Sonowal has mentioned. Union Minister informed that the Ministry simultaneously circulated the draft National Water Metro Policy, 2026 for inter-ministerial consultations, indicating a push to formalise a national framework for urban water transport. Notably on October 28, 2025, J&K Government had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) to develop a Rs 900 Cr water metro project across Dal lake and the Jhelum river. Today, we signed an MoU with the Inland Waterways Authority of India to develop the Srinagar Water Metro, inspired by the Kochi model. This initiative will enhance connectivity along Dal Lake and the Jhelum, ease traffic congestion, and promote sustainable urban mobility. A similar project is also being planned for Jammu, with locations such as Akhnoor and Reasi identified for development, CM Omar had posted after signing the MoU last year. Prior to it, on March 6, 2025, the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), to boost river cruise tourism on three National Waterways in J&K. The MoU was signed on the sidelines of Chintan Shivir held in Srinagar in the presence of Union Minister of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal and Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways Shri Shantanu Thakur. J&K Minister of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Transport, Science and Technology, Information Technology, Youth Services and Sports, Government of Jammu and Kashmir, Satish Sharma; Secretary, Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, T K Ramachandran; Chairman, IWAI, Vijay Kumar along with other dignitaries were also present on the occasion. The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) had entrusted Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) with conducting feasibility studies for 18 cities on February 25, 2025. The study covers assessment of existing public transport systems, travel demand estimation, financial and economic viability (FIRR and EIRR) and multimodal integration. As per the current status, site visits have been completed for all 18 locations, while draft feasibility reports have been submitted for 17 cities, with Lakshadweep pending. Feasibility reports for Srinagar, Patna, Guwahati, Varanasi, and Ayodhya have already been accepted. Sonowal said that building on the success and learnings from the Kochi Water Metro, the Modi government was now scaling up a national framework to introduce water-based urban mobility solutions across cities with navigable waterways. The proposed rollout aims to transform inland waterways into efficient, sustainable and modern public transport corridors. The proposed water metro systems are significantly less capital intensive as they utilise existing waterways with minimal civil infrastructure. With faster construction timelines, lower land requirements, and reduced operational costs particularly through the adoption of electric and hybrid ferries the system offers a viable and eco-friendly alternative to conventional urban transport. These services will contribute to reducing congestion in cities while offering a comfortable, scenic, and smoother commuting experience, Sonowal stated, while highlighting the rationale behind the initiative. He emphasised on the need for consultation of the draft National Water Metro Policy, 2026 with the state or UT governments too for receiving their valuable suggestions on the same. The Union Minister pointed out that the proposed water metro system was envisioned as a mass public transport solution catering to both daily commuters and tourism. It will operate across all navigable waterways. Under PM Narendra Modis leadership, a strong emphasis has been placed on green technologies, with hybrid and electric propulsion systems encouraged alongside periodic technological upgrades, he said. The initiative, according to the Minister, adopts an ecosystem approach, ensuring standardisation in vessel design, terminals, charging infrastructure and safety protocols, while promoting indigenisation in vessel construction and seamless multimodal integration with existing transport networks. Outlining the planning criteria, Sarbananda Sonowal said, Water Metro projects will be prioritised in regions with suitable geographic conditions, including continuous or semi-continuous waterways. Cities with populations exceeding one million and with demonstrated transport demand particularly in tourist corridors will be considered. However, these criteria may be relaxed in cases where projects significantly reduce road congestion, improve connectivity to remote or water-locked areas, or enhance resilience during floods and disruptions, he said. The development framework, according to him, adopts a comprehensive ecosystem approach encompassing vessels, pontoons, jetties, bunkering and charging infrastructure, terminals, passenger amenities and navigational aids. Multiple funding models are under consideration, including joint Centre-State funding, fully State-funded projects, Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and fully Centre-funded initiatives. The Ministry has emphasised cost optimisation strategies through efficient planning, fleet rationalisation and operational management to ensure long-term viability, Sonowal said. Speaking on the draft National Water Metro Policy 2026, Sarbananda Sonowal emphasised that Indias rich maritime heritage must be reflected in the design and architecture of terminals and associated infrastructure. He stressed the importance of conducting thorough landscape assessments and using locally appropriate building materials to preserve regional identity. Sonowal further called for active local engagement, particularly involving young students, to build awareness and participation in Indias waterways transformation. Emphasising sustainability, the Minister noted that quantifying fuel savings and environmental benefits should be a key communication focus. Sonowal added that Water Metro projects should enhance the beauty, reputation, and legacy of cities while delivering world-class and sustainable mobility solutions. He reiterated that the objective should be public service on par with best practices in developed nations. Describing the initiative as a golden opportunity, the Minister said that the Ministry had a pivotal role to play in driving Indias next phase of transport revolution through innovative, sustainable, and inclusive mobility solutions.

BJP Core Group to meet on Friday, eyes aggressive strategy against Omar Government

Srinagar, May 19:The Jammu and Kashmir unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is set to hold a crucial Core Group meeting in Jammu on Friday, which will be presided over by J&K BJP President and Rajya Sabha MP Sat Sharma. The high-level meeting at the partys headquarters in Trikuta Nagar is expected to deliberate on key party affairs, organisational strengthening, and a thorough review of the prevailing political scenario in the Union Territory. Senior BJP leaders, including Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, MPs, and other core committee members, will attend the meeting. Party insiders indicate that the session will focus on formulating a robust strategy to counter the ruling National Conference (NC)-Congress alliance government led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Sources within the BJP said the Core Group will intensely discuss what the party describes as rampant corruption and glaring failure of governance under the Omar Abdullah dispensation. Leaders are expected to take stock of public grievances, unfulfilled promises, and specific allegations of irregularities in various departments. Sat Paul Sharma, while addressing party workers recently, had signalled an aggressive approach. In line with that tone, he is expected to guide the Core Group towards a sharper public campaign. A senior BJP functionary quoted Sharma as saying ahead of the meeting: The people of Jammu and Kashmir are fed up with the day-to-day misgovernance. The NC government came with tall promises but has delivered only disappointment, dynastic politics, and a rising tide of corruption. Our party will expose every scam and hold the government accountable. Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma has been vocal in recent weeks about the alleged transfer industry and favouritism in the administration. He is likely to present a detailed report during Fridays meeting. The Omar Abdullah governments headquarters seem to be moving between marathon tracks and Gulmarg ski slopes rather than focusing on governance, Sunil Sharma had remarked earlier, criticising the Chief Ministers priorities. Corruption has peaked. Files dont move without bribes, and the common man is suffering. Development has come to a standstill. Party leaders are also expected to highlight issues such as delays in major infrastructure projects, youth unemployment, poor healthcare and power infrastructure, and alleged nepotism in appointments. The meeting will assess the performance of BJP MLAs in the Assembly and plan coordinated interventions to corner the government on these issues. Besides critiquing the ruling alliance, the Core Group is slated to review the partys organisational health across Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh regions. Discussions will include strengthening booth-level committees, expanding outreach programmes, and intensifying public contact drives to highlight the achievements of the Narendra Modi-led Central Government in J&K. Sat Sharma is expected to direct district and divisional presidents to submit comprehensive feedback reports on local issues. The meeting will also strategise on key demands such as early restoration of statehood and effective implementation of central welfare schemes. The BJP remains committed to the development and aspirations of all regions of J&K. While we support good governance, we will not shy away from exposing misrule and corruption, a senior leader said, summarising the expected thrust of the meeting. The timing of the meeting is significant as the Omar Abdullah government, which took charge in late 2024, faces growing criticism from the opposition on multiple fronts. The BJP sees this as an opportunity to consolidate its position, particularly in the Jammu region, and project itself as a strong and viable alternative.

GMC Baramulla employees hold candlelight protest over pending promotions, service issues

Baramulla, May 19:The Non-Gazetted Employees Forum of Government Medical College (GMC) Baramulla on Tuesday organised a peaceful candlelight protest in support of employees facing long-pending service issues and stagnation in promotions. The protest was held in a disciplined manner, with employees gathering to express solidarity with staff members working across various medical colleges. The participants said that despite rendering years of dedicated service, many employees have not received promotions for the past seven years, leading to growing frustration and mental stress among the workforce. Speaking during the protest, an employee said the prolonged stagnation and lack of career progression had severely affected the morale of workers. He said the employees have continued to perform their duties sincerely despite uncertainty surrounding their professional growth. The employee further said that the six-day strike earlier launched by the employees was suspended following assurances given by Javid Hassan Baig. He said the employees respect the assurance of the MLA and hope that their genuine demands will be addressed in a positive and time-bound manner. The Non-Gazetted Employees Forum reiterated that its movement remains peaceful and democratic and appealed to the administration and concerned authorities to resolve the long-pending issues of employees at the earliest.

Absence of fire hydrants comes under scrutiny after major Baramulla blaze

Baramulla, May 19:A massive fire that gutted a sanitary goods godown in Baramulla on Monday evening, causing losses worth crores of rupees, has once again brought the absence of fire hydrants in major towns of north Kashmir under sharp focus. The owner of the damaged godown said the fire could have been controlled at an early stage. Still, technical issues with firefighting equipment and the exhaustion of water in the first fire tender worsened the situation. More fire tenders arrived later, but the first vehicle at the spot ran out of water, making it difficult to contain the blaze, said Ifthikar Ahmad Kakroo, owner of the gutted godown. The incident has revived concerns about the failure to install fire hydrants in major towns such as Baramulla and Sopore, where fires frequently cause heavy losses, particularly during the winter months. Notably, the Fire and Emergency Services Department does not have a single functional fire hydrant installed in any major town of the Baramulla district. Although three hydrants were procured in 2018 for Baramulla town, they are yet to be installed due to the lack of coordination with the Jal Shakti Department. An official from the Fire and Emergency Services Department said the department had repeatedly approached Jal Shakti authorities to facilitate installation, but no progress had been achieved so far. Authorities had earlier identified three locations for the hydrants, including two sites in Main Bazaar and one in Old Town Baramulla. However, the proposal has remained stalled for years. Officials said Baramullas elevated topography often makes firefighting operations difficult, as fire tenders require considerable time to refill water.They added that functional hydrants in congested localities could significantly reduce damage during fire incidents and improve emergency response. Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, Syed Fakhruddin Hamid, said the administration would look into the issue and ensure that the hydrants are installed without further delay. I will take up the matter with the concerned departments and ensure there is no further delay in the installation process, he said.

Inflation, unchecked livestock rates add to Eid-ul-Adha burden on families in Kashmir

Srinagar, May 19:With Eid-ul-Adha approaching, concerns are mounting across Kashmir over soaring prices of sacrificial animals and mutton, as consumers allege the absence of government regulation has given traders a free hand to indulge in profiteering during the festive season. Residents said that, unlike previous years, no officially notified rate list has been issued for sacrificial animals, leaving buyers at the mercy of traders allegedly charging arbitrary prices for sheep and goats ahead of Eid. Many consumers claimed that sacrificial animals are being sold without proper weighing mechanisms, with rates varying significantly from one marketplace to another. There is no fixed mechanism now. One trader asks for Rs 35,000 for a sheep, while another demands Rs 45,000 for a similar animal. People purchase these animals as part of a religious obligation, and traders are taking advantage of the situation, said Bashir Ahmad, a resident of Srinagar. Another consumer, Javaid Ahmad, said many middle-class families are struggling to afford sacrificial animals this year amid rising inflation and economic distress. Prices of petrol, essentials, vegetables, and meat have already skyrocketed. Now, sacrificial animals are also beyond the reach of common people, he said, demanding stronger market regulation and monitoring. Apart from sacrificial animals, consumers also expressed concern over a likely spike in mutton prices during Eid-ul-Adha, when meat consumption traditionally increases across Kashmir. Locals alleged that there is little market oversight at present and claimed that rates of several essential commodities are effectively being dictated by trader bodies rather than government authorities. For years, the Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department used to issue rate lists and conduct regular market inspections before Eid. Now nobody knows what the actual rates are. The government should restore powers to the department, said Showkat Ahmad, a resident of downtown Srinagar. Officials from the department admitted that they no longer possess adequate authority to regulate prices or enforce rate lists as effectively as before. We are on the ground and continue market inspections, but we are not empowered to regulate rates like earlier. If officials question traders over higher prices, they are often told that the department has no authority to fix rates, an official said. Another official said that extensive market checking ahead of Eid earlier helped maintain price stability and prevent overcharging. There used to be pressure on traders because rate lists were officially notified and enforcement teams were active. Deregulation has considerably weakened the departments role, the official added. Meanwhile, traders defended the pricing pattern, saying rates vary depending on the breed, weight, and rearing costs of animals. One cannot compare every sacrificial animal. Some are specially reared for Eid and are provided with proper feed and care for months. Buyers also prefer healthier and better-looking animals and willingly pay more for them, said a trader from Eidgah, Srinagar. However, consumers said the absence of transparency and official monitoring has created confusion in the market at a time when many households are already grappling with financial stress. They urged the government to ensure adequate livestock availability, strengthen market regulation, and restore enforcement powers to the concerned department to prevent what they described as unchecked profiteering ahead of Eid al-Adha.

Hr Sec Gund faces staff shortage; Parents seek intervention of Director Education

Kangan, May 19: A government higher secondary school in tehsil Gund area of this central Kashmirs Ganderbal district is without the services of required staff including teachers and lecturers, making the teaching-learning process suffer immensely. A group of locals whose students are studying in the institution told Greater Kashmir that Government Higher Secondary School Gund is without the required staff. The functioning of the school has been badly affected due to the non-availability of the staff which includes teachers and lecturers, the locals said, alleging that the Education Department is not serious towards filling up the vacant post in the school. They said that the educational institute is without Physics, Botany and other subject lecturers as they have been deputed to other non-teaching jobs including Census 2026. They further said that they have also informed Chief Education Officer Ganderbal about the issue. They urged the government to take necessary measures to fulfil pending demand so as to secure the career of the students enrolled in the school. On one hand the authorities are making tall claims regarding the improvement in the education system while there is no transparent policy to overcome the deficiency of staff in Government schools the group of parents told Greater Kashmir. The parents sought immediate intervention of the Director Education Kashmir in this regard. We seek the intervention of Director Education to look into the issue so the demand is addressed as soon as possible, they added.

MLA Kangan completes self-enumeration for Census 2027 under digital census initiative

Ganderbal, May 19: In a significant step towards Digital Census 2027, Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA) Kangan, Mian Meher Ali on Tuesday completed his Self-Enumeration through the Census Self-Enumeration Portal, becoming one of the first public representatives in District Ganderbal to do so. The Self-Enumeration exercise was facilitated by Tehsildar Kangan, who is also the Charge Officer for Census 2027 in Tehsil Kangan. Tehsildar Kangan briefed the MLA about the importance of Digital Census, the use of Mobile App and Web Portal, and the role of citizens in ensuring error-free, real-time data collection. On the occasion, MLA Kangan said, Census is the foundation of all planning and welfare schemes. I appeal to all residents of Kangan to come forward and complete their Self-Enumeration. This will ensure that J&Ks data is accurate and our developmental needs are projected correctly at the national level. Tehsildar Kangan, informed that Tehsil Kangan was praised at All India level for its time bound and error free completion of Census 2025 Pre-Test in November 2025. We are committed to making Census 2027 a peoples movement. Self-Enumeration reduces workload on enumerators and improves data quality. Our teams are conducting door-to-door awareness and setting up facilitation camps in Panchayats, he said. The demonstration was attended by General Public, Supervisors, and Census functionaries. A dedicated help desk has been established at Tehsil Office Kangan to assist citizens in Self-Enumeration from 10 am to 4 pm on all working days.

JKMSA seeks Health Minister JP Naddas intervention over action against GMC Anantnag interns demanding stipend hike

Srinagar, May 19: The Jammu and Kashmir Medical Students Association (JKMSA), the official medical wing of the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association, on Tuesday sought the intervention of Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda while expressing deep concern and strongly condemning the alleged summoning and issuance of disciplinary notices to MBBS interns and junior doctors at Government Medical College Anantnag for peacefully raising their legitimate demand regarding enhancement of stipend for medical interns in Jammu & Kashmir. In a statement, President of JKMSA, Dr. Wasim Khan, said it is deeply unfortunate that young medical professionals, who tirelessly serve patients and remain at the forefront of healthcare delivery under immense academic, physical, and psychological pressure, are allegedly being subjected to intimidation and disciplinary proceedings merely for voicing genuine concerns related to inadequate stipends, excessive workload, long duty hours, and difficult working conditions. He said that medical interns, postgraduate residents, and junior doctors form the backbone of the healthcare system and dedicate countless hours to patient care and hospital services, often working beyond prescribed duty hours in extremely demanding circumstances. Raising concerns regarding fair compensation, humane working conditions, and professional dignity, he said, cannot be treated as misconduct or indiscipline, but is a legitimate, democratic, and constitutional right. Dr Khan emphasised that the students had reportedly made a peaceful video highlighting their demand for stipend enhancement and that such expression should not attract punitive action or coercive measures. He said that instead of summoning students and doctors for allegedly violating institutional norms, constructive dialogue and empathetic engagement would have been a far more appropriate and effective way of addressing their grievances. The association said it fails to understand how peacefully demanding a rightful stipend hike amounts to violating college norms. Did the students disrespect anyone? Did they violate any law or constitutional principle? If not, then targeting students and young doctors for peacefully expressing their concerns creates an atmosphere of fear and suppression within educational and medical institutions, the statement said. JKMSA further stated that a healthy and efficient healthcare system depends upon a motivated, respected, and adequately supported medical workforce. Suppressing genuine grievances through notices and intimidation, it said, only demoralises future healthcare professionals and discourages them from speaking about systemic issues affecting the healthcare sector. The association urged the administration of Government Medical College Anantnag and the Jammu & Kashmir Government to immediately withdraw any notices or summons issued against the students and ensure that no punitive action is taken against any intern or junior doctor for peacefully raising their concerns.

Kulgam court grants bail to POCSO accused after key witnesses fail to support prosecution case

Kulgam, May 19:A court in south Kashmirs Kulgam district has granted bail to an accused booked under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act after observing that the testimonies of key prosecution witnesses did not substantially incriminate him. Principal Sessions Judge Kulgam Aijaz Ahmad Khan, while allowing the bail plea, observed that the prosecutrix and her mother, who have already been examined before the trial court, have not materially supported the prosecution case against the accused. The court also noted the period of incarceration the accused had undergone and the pace of the trial. The accused has remained in judicial custody for more than one year and the trial is progressing slowly with only a few witnesses examined so far, the court observed in its order. Referring to the possibility of witness influence or evidence tampering, the court said, The statements of the material witnesses already stand recorded, and therefore, the apprehension of tampering with prosecution evidence has considerably diminished. While acknowledging the seriousness of offences under the POCSO Act, the court said the gravity of the allegations alone cannot be the sole ground for denying bail. Bail cannot be withheld merely on the basis of the seriousness of allegations and has to be considered on settled principles governing grant of bail, the court observed. The court further said that factors such as the likelihood of the accused absconding, influencing witnesses, or obstructing the course of trial must be taken into account while deciding a bail application. Granting relief to the accused, the court imposed several conditions, including a direction restraining him from contacting the victim or her family members. The accused has also been barred from entering the locality where the victim resides and from leaving the Union Territory (UT) without prior permission from the court. The court further directed the accused to appear before the trial court on every date of hearing. Advocates Umer Nazir and Owais Qadir represented the accused, while the Public Prosecutor (PP) represented the UT.

World Hypertension Day-2026 observed by CISA, MMF, BHCNMT

Srinagar, May 19:World Hypertension Day 2026 was observed under the ongoing SENIORS Heart Care Project by the Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies on Ageing (CISA), Moul Mouj Foundation (MMF), and Bibi Halima College of Nursing and Medical Technology (BHCNMT) through an academic and awareness programme focusing on the prevention, early detection, and recognition of hypertension. In his welcome address, Syed Tajamul Islam Bukhari, Principal BHCNMT, highlighted the importance of understanding hypertension and its growing public health burden. He stressed the need for nursing and paramedical students to develop awareness and practical understanding regarding hypertension, often called the silent killer. Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Zubair Saleem, Senior Geriatric Consultant, emphasized the crucial role of nurses and nursing students in outreach activities, community awareness, early screening, and counselling regarding hypertension and other chronic illnesses. He stated that nurses often serve as the first healthcare contact and can significantly contribute towards early diagnosis, treatment adherence, and promotion of healthy lifestyle practices. He further highlighted that uncontrolled hypertension remains a major cause of preventable complications including stroke, heart disease, kidney damage, and cognitive decline. The programme also featured an interactive question-answer session with enthusiastic participation from students. The vote of thanks was presented by Tabassum Akhtar, Assistant Professor, BHCNMT and Programme Coordinator, who thanked CISA for its continued collaboration and support. Pertinently, BHCNMT and CISA-MMF have ongoing collaborative academic and research activities, particularly in the field of geriatric caregiving and community health initiatives.

SKIMS organises walkathon in support of 100-day intensified Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan

Srinagar, May 19: Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences organised a walkathon within the institute premises to reaffirm its unwavering commitment towards building a drug-free society. The event was held as part of the 100-day intensified Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan launched by the Lieutenant Governor of Jammu & Kashmir on April 11, 2026. The walkathon was organized under the patronage of Director SKIMS/EOSG, Prof. M. Ashraf Ganie and was graced by Director National Health Mission (NHM), Akriti Sagar. Among the prominent dignitaries and participants present on the occasion were Zahoor Ahmad Mir, Additional Director SKIMS; Dr. Manzoor Ahmad, Director Finance SKIMS; Prof. Bashir Ahmad Fomda, Dean Medical Faculty SKIMS; Prof. Nisar Ahmad Bhat, Head Department of Pediatric Surgery; Prof. Syed Mudasir, Head Department of Biochemistry and Principal Paramedical College; Prof. Feroz Shaheen, Head Department of Radio Diagnosis; Prof. Anjum Bashir Fazili, Head Department of Community Medicine and Coordinator of the 100-Day Intensified Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan; Prof. Syed Basina Yasin, Head Department of Pathology; Prof. Ghulam Hassan Yatoo, Head Department of Hospital Administration; and Prof. Syed Nisar Ahmad, Head Department of Medical Oncology, along with faculty members, students of SKIMS, SKIMS Paramedical College, and Madr-e-Meherban College of Nursing SKIMS. Speaking on the occasion, Director SKIMS Prof M Ashraf Ganie reiterated the crucial role of healthcare professionals in creating awareness against substance abuse and in guiding society towards a healthier future. He stated that healthcare workers, being at the forefront of patient care and community outreach, have a moral and professional responsibility to actively contribute towards building a drug-free society. He emphasized that awareness, early intervention, counseling, and collective societal participation are essential in combating the growing menace of drug addiction. The 100-day intensive campaign is envisioned as a high-impact phase of the broader Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyan, focusing on awareness generation, early identification of substance abuse, community engagement, and strict action against drug supply networks. SKIMS, through its Department of Community Medicine, has already been undertaking a series of awareness and outreach activities under the 100-Day Intensified Nasha Mukt J&K Abhiyan, involving multiple stakeholders and reinforcing the administrations commitment and zero-tolerance policy against substance abuse with the vision of creating a healthier and drug-free society.

After college principals, Govt fills vacant ZEO posts; stakeholders urge for filling of Headmasters, lecturers posts

Srinagar, May 19: In a significant development, the School Education Department (SED) has ordered placement of headmasters as in-charge Zonal Education Officers (ZEOs) across education zones of Jammu and Kashmir. The move comes days after the government ordered placement of principals in headless Government Degree Colleges (GDCs) in Jammu and Kashmir. This newspaper earlier carried a series of stories regarding the vacant positions of the principals in GDCs besides vacant positions of ZEOs, headmasters and higher secondary principals. Minister for education earlier told Greater Kashmir that the government was working to fill all the vacant positions in schools, colleges and zonal offices as well. Since our government was formed, we held several DPC meetings which were followed by promotions and placement of officers as CEOs and principals. There was a huge liability as the posts were lying vacant for the last four years, she told Greater Kashmir. On Tuesday, School Education Department ordered placement of 256 headmasters and equivalent as in-charge Zonal Education Officers and equivalent. Sanction is hereby accorded to the placement of following Headmasters and equivalent as in-charge Zonal Education Officers and equivalent, in their own pay and grade, with charge allowance, as admissible under rules, with immediate effect till the posts are filled up on regular basis by DPC/PSC, reads an order issued by Commissioner Secretary SED Ram Niwas Sharma. The placement shall not confer any preferential claim or right to the officer for seeking regularization/confirmation, which shall be considered strictly as per rules by DPC/JKPSC, it reads. As per the order, the placement shall be subject to the outcome of writ petition(s), if any, pending before any competent Court(s) of law. The officers shall submit an undertaking to the concerned CEO stating therein that in case his/her service particulars/academic credentials are found fake/forged/tampered or issued by an unrecognized University, his/her placement shall be deemed to have been cancelled ab-initio, it reads. The order reads that in case of an adverse report against any officer regarding the work and conduct and integrity, his/her placement shall be deemed to have been cancelled, ab-initio. The assignment is purely temporary, and in academic interest and in the interest of administration, the order reads. The officers placed as in-charge ZEOs have been asked to report to the concerned Chief Education Officers (CEOs) within 10 days from the date of issuance of this order. In case of failure to join within the stipulated period, his/her placement shall be deemed to have been cancelled ab-initio without any further notice, the SED order reads. Jammu and Kashmir Teachers Forum (JKTF) has expressed its gratitude to minister for education Sakina Itoo, Commissioner secretary SED Ram Niwas Sharma and both the directors for filling up all vacancies of ZEOs J&K UT. The move will surely help to improve the work culture and definitely benefit the student community, Provincial president JKTF Javid Ahmad Bhat said. He said that the absence of DDOs severely hampered official work. The forum further appealed to the education minister to fulfill other vacancies of CEOs, DIET Principals, Higher Secondary Principals, Headmasters and Lectures on a fast-track basis so that the institutions may not suffer any more.

Nasha Mukt JK Abhiyan

So, whats the worst advice we can give to a drug abuser? The answer is simple: Telling a person struggling with harmful drug use to stop all drugs at once and lock themselves in a room for 10 days so that the addiction goes away without any medical supervision. Why is this advice so dangerous? Let me explain. Consider a common example: the habit of drinking tea every morning and throughout the day. Can you suddenly stop drinking tea? How would you feel? Try going without it for just one day. Youll likely experience headaches, mood swings, and irritability. Why? Because even mild substances can create physical and psychological dependence. Now imagine giving the same cold turkey advice to someone who may be using sedatives, alcohol, cough syrups, cannabis, and heroin. The consequences can be far more severe even life-threatening. General Features of Withdrawal Symptoms: Physical symptoms often mimic a severe flu or stress response (body aches, gastrointestinal upset, temperature dysregulation). Psychological symptoms include intense cravings (due to dysregulation of the brains reward system), anxiety, depression, and emotional volatility. Protracted Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS): Lingering subtle symptoms such as mood instability, sleep problems, and cognitive fog that can last for months and significantly increase the risk of relapse. Danger signs requiring immediate medical help: Seizures, severe confusion or delirium, suicidal ideation, chest pain, or dehydration from vomiting/diarrhea. Deaths from Suddenly Stopping Harmful Drugs. Research shows the following risk levels: Most Severe (High physical dependence + life-threatening risks): Alcohol Strong physical symptoms with a high risk of seizures, delirium tremens (DTs), and death without medical care. Benzodiazepines (and other sedatives like barbiturates) Similar to alcohol; protracted symptoms and highly seizure-prone. GHB (Gamma-Hydroxybutyrate and related substances) Very rapid, severe, and potentially fatal. High Severity: Opioids (heroin, fentanyl, etc.) Extremely uncomfortable (flu-like symptoms + intense cravings); low direct death risk but high potential for relapse and overdose. Moderate Severity: Nicotine Strong cravings, irritability, and appetite changes. Stimulants (cocaine, methamphetamine, ADHD medications) Mostly psychological (crash phase with depression, fatigue, and sadness ); some physical fatigue and sleep issues. Milder Severity : Cannabis Irritability, sleep disturbances, appetite loss, and anxiety (can still be very distressing for heavy users). In short: Never advise anyone to quit drugs on their own without medical guidanceit can be unsafe and counterproductive. Because sudden, unsupervised withdrawal can trigger severe symptoms, relapse, and even life-threatening complications, making recovery harder.

All Faiths, One Message: Warning Against Intoxicants

Across civilizations and religious traditions, intoxicants and alcohol have often been viewed not merely as substances, but as factors capable of impairing judgment, disturbing social harmony, and affecting moral and spiritual well-being. Different faiths may express this in different language, yet many carry a common concern regarding intoxication and loss of self-control. In Hindu scriptures, several texts discourage the consumption of intoxicants. References in the BhagavataPurana, Brahma Purana, Chandogya Upanishads, and Manu Smriti describe alcohol consumption as undesirable and spiritually harmful. In Vaishnavism, alcohol is considered Tamsik in nature, associated with ignorance and loss of higher consciousness. Traditional teachings among Brahmins and scholars often regard habitual drinking as a serious moral lapse. Vedic thought generally emphasizes that intoxicants may hinder spiritual growth, weaken self-discipline, and contribute to conflict and neglect of responsibilities. While Ayurveda has historically mentioned limited medicinal use under specific circumstances, recreational use is largely discouraged. In Christianity, the Book of Proverbs (20:1) states: Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler; whoever is led astray by them is not wise. Similarly, Proverbs 31:45 cautions leaders against intoxication, warning that it can cloud judgment and affect justice and responsibility. In Islam, the Holy Quran (Surah Al-Maidah, Chapter 5, Verse 90) clearly advises believers to abstain from intoxicants and gambling, describing them as harmful influences that divert individuals from righteousness and well-being. In Buddhism, the Fifth Precept advises followers to refrain from intoxicants because they can cloud the mind, impair mindfulness, and encourage carelessness and harmful actions. Similarly, Sikh teachings in the Guru Granth Sahib discourage intoxication and emphasize maintaining spiritual awareness and self-control. While expressions differ across traditions, a common message emerges: substances that impair judgment and self-control may affect not only individual health but also families, relationships, and society. In view of growing concerns regarding substance use and its impact on youth and communities, continued awareness, prevention, education, and collective efforts under initiatives such as NashaMukt Bharat Abhiyaan remain important in building a healthier and more responsible society, particularly in regions with rich spiritual and cultural traditions such as Jammu & Kashmir. Afzal Hassan Dar is a senior citizen

Daughters Becoming Default Caregivers

Sometimes, major social changes do not arrive through government reports, census surveys, policy announcements, or public debates. Instead, they appear silently in places where people often reveal realities more honestly than anywhere else inside clinics, hospitals, consultation rooms and waiting areas. From January to April 2026, MoulMouj teleconsultation services received hundreds of calls related to healthcare advice, counselling, elderly support and medical assistance. During routine documentation and review of patient interactions, one recurring pattern repeatedly drew attention. Initially, it was not planned as a formal study. It began as a simple observation noticed during day-to-day clinical work. However, after seeing the same pattern emerge repeatedly, it became increasingly difficult to ignore. Under its ongoing Elders Deserve Better Project, the Centre for Interdisciplinary Studies on Ageing (CISA) conducted an observational study under the guidance and support of Project Advisor Prof. (Dr.) John Ebnezar, Founder President of the Geriatric Orthopaedic Society of India and recipient of the Padma Shri, Rajyotsava Prashasti, and Dr. B. C. Roy Award. Among elderly patients who had both married sons and married daughters, records were maintained to understand who was making teleconsultation calls, accompanying patients to healthcare facilities, and actively participating in caregiving responsibilities. The findings were striking and perhaps socially revealing. Among teleconsultation calls in this selected group, 78% came from married daughters, 17% from married sons, while 5% came from patients themselves or spouses. The observations became even more revealing within the health centre itself. Among elderly patients with both married sons and daughters attending MoulMouj Health Centre, 35% were accompanied by daughters, 12% by sons, 7% by spouses, while 46% arrived entirely alone. Numbers occasionally reveal realities that words hesitate to describe For decades, South Asian family structures have functioned with a deeply embedded social understanding that sons eventually become the principal caregivers of ageing parents. Daughters traditionally marry, move to another household, and although they remain emotionally connected, society often assumes that caregiving responsibilities shift elsewhere after marriage. But perhaps reality is changing faster than our social assumptions. Because these observations suggest something deeply thought-provoking and, for some, perhaps uncomfortable. The daughter who was once described as parayadhan may increasingly be becoming the default caregiver. This observation should not become a simplistic debate of daughters versus sons, because such a conclusion would be unfair and reductionist. Families are complex. Circumstances differ. Geographic distances, employment responsibilities, financial pressures, migration and personal challenges all influence caregiving patterns. The issue may be far deeper. The real question is: Who is carrying the emotional labour of ageing? Caregiving is not merely taking parents to hospitals or arranging appointments. It includes remembering medicine schedules, contacting doctors, checking blood reports, arranging investigations, monitoring symptoms, noticing behavioural changes, managing emergencies, listening patiently to repeated fears, and remaining emotionally available during vulnerable moments. Presence itself has become labour Modern family structures are changing rapidly. Urbanisation has transformed relationships. Nuclear families have increasingly replaced traditional joint family systems. Employment opportunities frequently force children into different cities and countries. Economic realities have become more demanding, and time itself has become increasingly scarce. And somewhere within this transition, traditional caregiving models appear to be changing. Interestingly, many daughters continue caregiving even after marriage despite social, geographical, and emotional barriers. Perhaps emotional relationships do not always follow cultural rules. Many elderly parents slowly say something during consultations: My daughter calls every day. At first hearing, the statement appears ordinary. But behind that sentence often exists an entire caregiving structure that society rarely notices. There are daily reminders about medicines. There are phone calls to doctors. There are requests for reports over messaging applications. There are conversations asking whether meals were eaten, blood pressure was checked, or medicines were taken on time. There is worry travelling silently across cities and households. Caregiving today no longer always requires physical presence. Technology has altered emotional proximity. The daughter living hundreds of kilometres away may sometimes know more about her fathers blood pressure readings, sleep patterns and medicine schedules than a son living under the same roof. But perhaps another observation within these numbers deserves even greater attention. Forty-six percent arrived alone Not with sons. Not with daughters. Not with family members. Alone. Perhaps that number deserves more discussion than all others. Because loneliness itself is gradually becoming a public health issue. An elderly person entering a healthcare centre alone does not merely indicate transportation difficulties or scheduling problems. It may represent emotional distance, family fatigue, social isolation, or perhaps a generation becoming structurally unprepared for ageing. Many elderly parents rarely complain. Instead, they often protect their children from guilt. They create explanations. They were busy. They had office work. Children have responsibilities. Healthcare professionals working closely with elderly populations hear these explanations repeatedly. Sometimes parents continue caregiving long after caregiving should have reversed direction. There is another social question hidden beneath these observations. If daughters are increasingly becoming primary caregivers, are institutions recognising this transition? Do workplaces provide caregiving flexibility equally for daughters? Do healthcare systems automatically involve daughters in decision-making? Do our assumptions still unconsciously place sons as primary contacts? Perhaps systems themselves are still functioning according to older social structures while reality inside clinics has already changed. These findings may also create an uncomfortable question for sonsnot as criticism, but as reflection. Has caregiving gradually become delegated? Has emotional participation increasingly been replaced by financial contribution alone? Can money substitute presence? Can transfers replace conversations? Can responsibility be outsourced? Perhaps sometimes.But not entirely. Because ageing eventually becomes deeply human. At some stage, people no longer simply need medicines or investigations. They require accompaniment, reassurance, conversation, and presence. They need someone sitting outside consultation rooms. Someone asking the doctor questions. Someone saying: What exactly did the doctor say? Healthcare professionals increasingly witness this truth. Disease hurts. But loneliness often hurts more. Perhaps the most important finding from these observations is not statistical. It is emotional. Families may be changing. Social expectations may be changing. Gender roles may be changing. But one reality remains unchanged. Every ageing parent eventually reaches a stage where independence slowly negotiates with dependence. And when that moment arrives, societies discover who truly showed up. Not through speeches. Not through assumptions. Not through tradition. But inside waiting rooms.

The oil war

The 2026 war between U.S-Israel and Iran targeted energy infrastructure, particularly blocking the supply vein, the Strait of Hormuz. It triggered major global oil supply disruptions. Due to its oil treasure the region has been a theatre of war, with critical infrastructure constantly targeted, as seen in attacks on oil assets in Iraq in 2003, in Libya in 2011, and now in Iran, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar The strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, roughly 20% of global oil passes through it, goes without saying. Its blockade by Iran and the upfront blockade by the US has made the region a centre for global conflict and military intervention. The greed for oil has historically encouraged international powers to intervene in the regional affairs, leading to regime changes. While oil has precisely been the primary driver of economic progress in the Middle East, it has also made it susceptible to invasions of powerful countries particularly, the America. Reading the situation of disrupted oil supply due to the conflict, and the falling global economy, the IEA advised industrialised countries to release a record 400 million barrels of oil from strategic stockpiles held by member nations to combat a spike in global crude pricessince the start of the U.S.-Israeli war on Iran. The history of oil industry in Iran is illustrative of the effects of the discovery of oil in the Middle East. A prime example of resource curse. Ironically, the country tends to have less economic growth, less democracy, and worse development outcomes than countries with fewer natural resources. It is characterized by political and military conflict, in this case caused by British and American interests in the oil industry. On April 14, 1909, one year after geologist George Bernard Reynolds discovered oil in Persia (modern-day Iran), Burmah Oil created the Anglo-Persian Oil Company (APOC) as a subsidiary and sold shares to the public. Bulk production of Persian oil products eventually started in 1913 from a refinery built at Abadan, for its first 50 years the largest oil refinery in the world. In 1913, shortly before World War I, APOC managers negotiated with a new customer, Winston Churchill, who was then First Lord of the Admiralty of Britain. Churchill, as part of a three-year expansion program, sought to modernize Britains Royal Navy by abandoning the use of coal-fired steamships and adopting oil as fuel for its ships instead. Although Britain had large reserves of coal, oil had advantages in better energy density, allowing a longer steaming range for a ship of the same bunker capacity. Ensuing Germanys invasion of the USSR in June 1941, Britain and the Soviet Union became allies. Britain and the USSR saw the newly opened Trans-Iranian Railway as an attractive route to transport supplies, including oil, from the Persian Gulf to the Soviet Union. Britain and the USSR used concessions extracted in previous interventions to pressure Iran (and, in Britains case, Iraq) into allowing the use of their territory for military and logistical purposes. Increased tensions with Britain led to pro-German rallies in Tehran. In August 1941, because Reza Shah refused to expel all German nationals and come down clearly on the Allied side, Britain and the USSR invaded Iran, arrested the monarch, and sent him into exile to South Africa, taking control of Irans communications and the coveted railway. They put Reza Shahs son Mohammad Reza Pahlavi onto the throne. The new Shah soon signed an agreement pledging full non-military logistical cooperation with the British and Soviets in exchange for full recognition of his countrys independence and a promise to withdraw from Iran within six months of the wars conclusion. With a pro-Western Shah and the new pro-Western Prime Minister, Fazlollah Zahedi, Iranian oil began flowing again and the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company changed the name to British Petroleum in 1954. However, public opinion was so opposed that the new government could not permit it. Underneath pressure from the U.S., British Petroleum was forced to accept membership in a consortium of companies that would bring Iranian oil back on the international market. It was incorporated in London in 1954 as a holding company called Iranian Oil Participants. This group of companies, all based outside the Middle East, came to be known as the Seven Sisters or the Consortium for Iran cartel and dominated the global petroleum industry from the mid-1940s to the 1970s. Until the oil crisis of 1973, the members of the Seven Sisters controlled around 85% of the worlds known oil reserves. Afterward, the oil industry began to nationalize throughout the Middle East. Ever since oil was first discovered near Mosul in the early 20th century, oil production has gradually become a major economic and strategic issue in relations with the Middle East. The European Powers began investing in Middle Eastern oil in 1912, with the creation of the Turkish Petroleum Company. The discovery of oil reserves in Iraq in 1927 led to the construction of the first oil pipeline to the Mediterranean. In the 1930s, American oil companies also began operations in the region, mainly in Saudi Arabia where they were given a monopoly. It was not until after the Second World War that Middle Eastern oil states began to develop in earnest. World demand for oil exploded and, at the same time, the Gulf States share of supplies to Western countries grew. They were able to strengthen their position and gradually regain control of their natural resources, creating a symbol of national pride and justifying their request for decolonization. In 1960, determined to confront the bigger foreign oil companies dominating the market and gain control of prices, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Kuwait decided to create the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries. The United Arab Emirates, and later the Sultanate of Oman, also entered the market and thus reinforced the importance of this oil-rich region. With the Middle East in a permanent state of conflict, black gold is often used to finance war. Having the largest reserves of hydrocarbons in the world and with OPEC controlling the market. Instability in the region weighs heavily on the need to ensure oil deliveries. Immediately following the first Israeli-Arab conflict, the first pipelines southern arm, which carried Iraqi petroleum to the Mediterranean, had to be closed down, encouraging the United States to build a new pipeline, the Tapline. At the time, almost all oil was transported via the Strait of Hormuz, and then the Suez Canal for delivery to Europe and the United States. From the 1967 War to 1975, Egypt closed the Suez Canal, forcing petrol tankers to sail around Africa. During this period Egypt, together with the Gulf States, began planning for the future by building a new pipeline to offset the limitations of the Canal. In Iraq, the war with Iran and tensions with Syria cut off the possibility of sending oil towards the Gulf and the Mediterranean. This state of affairs led to the construction of a new pipeline across Turkish territory to Saudi Arabia. Egypt, Turkey and, above all, Saudi Arabia are now well placed to control the transport and sale of oil, but they rely on regular intervention by the Great Powers to guarantee the security of oil transportation and the territorial integrity of certain States, such as Kuwait in 1991. There is simply no way to quench the American greed and thirst for oil. Oil is one of the few things the Americans are willing to go to war for, as the late King Hussein of Jordan once remarked. The second thing is Israels security. In the wake of the American wars, the curse of oil continues to haunt the countries that hold the worlds largest reserves. This curse of oil has made the sovereign decisions of oil-producing countries dependent on American will. It has also subjected many of these governments to the whims of multinational corporations and wealthy individuals. It therefore, remains a question with millions of doubts that is the oil in the Middle East a source of bloodshed or prosperity.

Rise of Student Phobia

We are familiar with different kinds of phobias fear of heights, fear of darkness, fear of confined spaces. In Kashmiri society too, we have local expressions for unusual fears. One such humorous term is NeandPrah the fear or dislike of de-weeding paddy fields. But over the past several years, while working in the education sector, I have come across a new and disturbing phenomenon: student phobia. This may not yet be recognised in psychology textbooks, but it is becoming increasingly visible in the schooling system of Jammu and Kashmir. The roots of this problem can be traced to the massive expansion of schools under the SarvaShikshaAbhiyan (SSA), launched with the noble objective of universalising education. Primary and Middle schools were opened in almost every nook and corner of the region. Simultaneously, a large number of Rehbar-e-Taleem (ReT) teachers were engaged to run these institutions. While the intention behind the policy was admirable, its implementation created several unintended consequences. In many places, schools were established without proper long-term planning or assessment of actual student population. The process also opened avenues for vested interests within the system from school construction contracts to teacher engagements. Today, hundreds of abandoned or under-utilised school buildings scattered across Jammu and Kashmir stand as silent reminders of that flawed expansion. The educational impact has been equally serious. Earlier, Middle schools used to cater to large numbers of students from diverse social and economic backgrounds. Children learned not only academics but also social interaction, cooperation, competition and leadership. Such environments helped shape personality and confidence from an early age. But when schools were fragmented mohalla-wise, students became confined to tiny institutions within their immediate localities. Many schools today function with only a handful of students. This isolation has affected the social development of children. The damage, however, is not limited to students alone. Teachers too have suffered professionally. In vibrant schools with healthy enrolment, teachers learn from one another, exchange ideas and remain intellectually active. In contrast, many schools today have more teachers than students. There are institutions where six teachers handle barely 30 or 35 children. Recently, I met an energetic and competent young teacher posted in such a school. He confessed with visible frustration that his professional potential was slowly dying in an atmosphere of idleness. There is no challenge, no academic environment, no motivation left, he said. His words reflected a larger crisis. Many capable teachers have gradually become accustomed to working in extremely low-enrolment schools where workload is minimal and accountability almost absent. Over time, some of them have developed what may be described as student phobia an unwillingness or even fear of working in schools with large number of student populations and active academic environment. Whenever such teachers are transferred to schools with substantial enrolment, many immediately begin using personal influence and administrative channels to return to their comfortable zones. I know of a teacher who reportedly had to seek medical consultation after being posted to a school with a significant student roll. This situation raises uncomfortable but necessary questions. Can an education system remain healthy when teachers fear students instead of engaging with them? Rationalisation of schools and staff has long been discussed in Jammu and Kashmir, but implementation often encounters resistance from various quarters. Yet ignoring the issue will only deepen the crisis. The time has come to rethink the structure of schooling in J&K with honesty, courage and long-term vision. Otherwise, student phobia may silently become one of the most dangerous disorders affecting our education system. Javaid Jawad, best teacher awardee, currently heads PM Shiri Government Secondary School, Laharwalpora, Bandipora.

Infertility crisis

J&Ks total fertility rate has fallen to 1.4 children per woman, sharply below the replacement level of 2.1. In urban pockets, it dips further to 1.2. It is among the steepest fertility declines recorded anywhere in India, and it is accelerating quietly. The causes are not mysterious. Women in Kashmir now marry at an average age of 26, the highest in India. A growing number are marrying in their thirties. This matters biologically in ways that cannot be negotiated away by policy or goodwill. Peak female fertility sits between 18 and 25 years. When marriages are delayed by a decade or more from that biological peak, fewer children follow, not always by choice, but by circumstance. What is driving these delays? Largely, an unemployment rate hovering around 30 percent, again, among the highest in India. Young men and women cannot marry when they cannot afford to. They cannot start families when a wedding itself demands savings they do not have. Those who do find work are frequently underemployed, earning wages that make even a second child feel like massive burden. The result is a growing one-child norm, not born of preference, but of compulsion. Urbanisation has compounded all of this. The joint family, for all its complications, once distributed the burden of childcare across generations. Nuclear households carry that weight alone. Working couples already stretched, look at the cost and effort of raising a second child and quietly decide against it. This is developing into a difficult situation. An ageing population demands more from healthcare systems that are already inadequate. The old-age dependency ratio will climb. Economic growth in a region already struggling with limited opportunities will face further pressure as the working-age population thins. This is not a future crisis, it is happening in the present. The government must treat unemployment as the emergency it is, because delayed livelihoods are delaying child-bearing. Society too must reckon with what is being lost, not quietly, and not too late.

NCW, KU hold awareness programme on gender sensitisation and PoSH

Srinagar, May 19: The National Commission for Women (NCW) in collaboration with the Department of Students Welfare (DSW), University of Kashmir (KU) organised a day-long programme on Gender Sensitisation and PoSH Awareness at the varsitys main campus. A statement of KU issued here said that the programme aimed to create awareness about gender sensitivity, workplace dignity, and the provisions of the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (PoSH) Act, while encouraging a safe and inclusive environment for women in educational and professional spaces. Speaking at the inaugural session, Acting Vice-Chancellor KU, Prof Mohiuddin Sangmi, said that educational institutions have a vital responsibility in promoting gender sensitivity, mutual respect and safe work environments. Highlighting the varsitys long-standing association with the National Commission for Women, he said that the University of Kashmir has been consistently organising awareness and outreach programmes over the years on issues related to gender equality, womens rights and social responsibility. Chairperson, NCW, Vijaya Rahatkar, in her keynote address, highlighted the importance of understanding laws and regulations related to the safety and protection of women in domestic and workplace settings. She also spoke about the contributions of many remarkable women from Kashmir who have played significant roles in shaping society through their courage, intellect and leadership. Earlier, in his welcome address, Registrar KU, Prof Naseer Iqbal, said that awareness about legal safeguards and institutional mechanisms is essential for creating a secure and inclusive academic atmosphere. The programme featured a technical session on Working of the National Commission for Women by Shri Shivam Garg, Media Advisor, NCW, who elaborated on the role and functioning of the Commission in addressing women-related issues across the country. Another technical session on Workshop on PoSH (Prevention of Sexual Harassment) was conducted by Tunika Sharma, Counsellor, NCW, who discussed the importance of Internal Committees (ICs) in institutions and workplaces and emphasized the need for timely reporting and redressal mechanisms. The sessions also included interactive discussions with the participants. The programme was attended by faculty members, scholars and students from across the University campus. The proceedings of the event were conducted by Shahid Ali Khan, Cultural Officer, DSW KU, while the vote of thanks was presented by Shri Ramavatar Singh, Deputy Director, NCW.

32 structures demolished, 3 hectares forest land reclaimed in RaikaBandi

Srinagar, May 19:A total of 32 structures were demolished and 3 hectares of forest land were reclaimed in RaikaBandi area near Jammu on Tuesday, sources said. According to sources, the anti-encroachment eviction exercise jointly carried out on Tuesday involved a joint team of the administration, Forest Department, Forest Protection Force, police personnel, and officers of the belt force, in the presence of First-Class Magistrates. They said that during the exercise and operation, the joint teams managed to demolish 32 illegally constructed concrete as well as kaccha structures during the drive and approximately 3 hectares of encroached forest land were reclaimed during the operation. The sources said that the High Court in its order dated September 3, 2020, in the PIL No 25/2017 titled 'SAVE versus state of J&K and others' had categorically directed the Forest Department for the removal of the encroachments from forest lands in time bound manner and even directed for the constitution of high-level committees to achieve the desired objectives. The sources said that the instant case involves the eviction of the majority non-local encroachers from the forest land and area adjoining to the fence line of old Tawi Herbal Eco Park and near the Chak line boundary of the BandiChak. The sources said that Tuesdays eviction exercise was not a sudden outburst and action but its timeline was quite old and falls back to months of the hectic efforts by the forest field staff to check the spread of these encroachers and on March 28, 2026, during the routine inspection by the field staff these encroachers attacked the forest field staff and even raised baseless allegation to falsely trap the government employees in false and frivolous cases. The sources said that as such, sensing the urgency of the matter, the higher authorities were apprised and a procedure of issuing the show cause notices was initiated. The sources said that all such exercises went in vain as the show cause notices found no takers and they vehemently denied accepting such notices and even misbehaved with the staff on duty leading the issuance of the eviction orders. The sources said the authorities further intimated that a notion had been set in the public that these encroachers were residing in the area in question for the last many decades, but the Google Earth timeline imagery clearly shows that there were only 2 to 3 kutcha sheds upto the year 2009. The sources said that majority of the structures which were dismantled on Tuesday have its place with the non-local families and only three to four families were of local Gujjar lineage.

Kashmirs stray dog crisis faces new ambiguity after SC order

Srinagar, May 19:The Supreme Courts latest observations allowing authorities to euthaniserabid, incurably ill, or demonstrably dangerous and aggressive stray dogs has reignited debate about balance between human safety and animal welfare. In Kashmir stray dog attacks are a persistent public concern and civic systems remain poorly equipped to manage the crisis. In Srinagar and across Kashmir, residents report packs of dogs chasing pedestrians, attacking children, and making early morning or late evening movement difficult. Official records over the years have reflected a steady stream of dog-bite cases. However, animal welfare advocates warn that the Supreme Courts remarks, though legally limited to aggressive or rabid animals and tied to veterinary assessment, could be misused given the animal birth control infrastructure is essentially non-functional. For the past several months, no dogs have been ssterilised in Srinagar, with Commissioner Srinagar MunicipalCorporation (SMC), FazLulHaseeb promising operationalising soon. The J&K government, in February this year, said in Assembly that SMC sterilised 15,266 dogs since 2018. Detailing, it said, major sterilisation work was carried out in 2023 with 6964 sterilsations and in 2024 with 7546 sterilsations. In August-September 2025, 935 sterilisationswere carried out. Sterilisations have stopped since then at the official facility. Other districts of Kashmir have non-functional Animal Birth Control programme. The Supreme Court on Tuesday said authorities may take legally permissible measures, including euthanasia for dogs that are rabid or demonstrably dangerous, subject to veterinary assessment and compliance with the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act and Animal Birth Control Rules. The court also directed states and UTs to strictly implement measures to keep stray dogs away from sensitive public spaces. It also warned the officials that they could face contempt proceedings for failing to comply with the directions. J&K had figured in earlier proceedings and implementation discussions, due to its high stray dog population and dog-bite cases. The SC acknowledged the harsh realities of increasing dog attacks. It emphasised that citizens have a right to move freely in public spaces without fear. However, with no Animal Welfare Board and rudimentary infrastructure for assessment, and confinement of animals in place in Kashmir, this rule is a license to kill, animal welfare activists believe. Dog attacks are a reality in Kashmir, and many families have borne the brunt of aggressive animals. With no government help in sight, many locals have also attacked dogs, brutally and in contravention with law. Given the burgeoning population, and lack of measures to control population and set up infrastructure for stray animals, situation, many stakeholders feel, is set to get out of hand. Parents in Kashmir are often seen escorting their children to school through streets where packs of dogs gather around garbage dumps. In some neighbourhoods, residents say elderly people avoid stepping out before daylight. That gap between policy and infrastructure is now creating paradox, many animal rights groups said.

J&Ks silence against drugs has broken: LG Manoj Sinha

Srinagar, May 19:Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday said he had witnessed the silence that had gripped Jammu and Kashmir for years finally being broken, adding that it had now transformed into a strong public voice against drugs. I have seen the silence that had gripped Jammu and Kashmir for years finally break, and today that silence has turned into a strong voice against drug abuse, LG Sinha said addressing a public mobilisationprogramme against drugs in south Kashmirs Pulwama town. He said those involved in drug smuggling may have amassed wealth and built lavish homes through the trade, but warned that the money ultimately reaches groups that not only destroy the lives of Jammu and Kashmirs youth but also fuel terrorism in the region. Drug smugglers and terrorists are two sides of the same coin, the LG said. One destroys the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to generate money, and that same money is then used to promote terrorism in the region. He said that drug peddlers were not only ruining the lives of youth but were also financing violence and the killing of innocent civilians. LG Sinha warned those operating narco-terror ecosystem would not escape the law. I want to tell those operating the network of drug smuggling and narco-terror that no one can save you now. Even if you hide in the deepest corners, you will be tracked down and brought before the law, he said. The LG said the administrations campaign against drug smuggling in Jammu and Kashmir would continue with full determination and would not be limited to arrests alone. Authorities would also target properties and assets allegedly acquired through proceeds from the narcotics trade, he said. Now it will not be just about arrests. Every effort will also be made to dismantle those mansions, properties and luxuries that were built from the blood and tears of our youth, LG Sinha warned. He said the administration had not only seen changes in statistics related to drug abuse but had also witnessed a wider social awakening against the menace. We did not just see change in numbers, but witnessed and felt the spirit of the people awakening, the LG said. In Baramulla, we saw with our own eyes how people united against drug abuse. In Kupwara, I saw thousands of youths and parents taking a collective pledge against drugs. He said more than 11,000 local awareness programmes had recently been organised in Pulwama alone, while Police had registered cases against 48 drug smugglers and arrested 56 alleged traffickers. LG Sinha said the figures reflected the administrations efforts to strike at what he described as the roots of terrorism. He acknowledged that drug abuse could not be eradicated within 100 days, but said the campaign had been launched to create a lasting impact and involve society as a whole in the fight against narcotics. I know that drugs cannot be eliminated in 100 days, but the campaign was started so that it creates an impact and the entire society joins this fight, the LG said. He also sought to reassure the public that innocent people would not be targeted during the crackdown. LG Sinha said some people were trying to spread the impression that wrongful actions were being taken, but maintained that no innocent person anywhere in Jammu and Kashmir would face action. He said the decisions taken by the administration were made after careful consideration and in the interest of the future of the regions youth. The LG said that the authorities would not rest until the campaign against drugs and narco-terror reached its logical conclusion. He said the NashaMuktAbhiyan would focus on three critical fronts. First, the administration would dismantle drug supply chains and intensify action against narcotics trafficking. He said stringent measures would be taken against drug peddlers, including the cancellation of their passports, vehicle registrations, Aadhaar cards and driving licences, LG Sinha said. The second front, he said, would focus on public awareness and collective participation in the anti-drug campaign. It is not a question of you versus us. It is a question about the future of Jammu and Kashmir. I request everyone to set aside differences and work together in this campaign, he said. The third key area, the LG said, would be rehabilitation of those affected by drug abuse. I know it is difficult and challenging, but we have to help and rehabilitate all those involved in drugs, he said.

Italy & India: A Strategic Partnership For The Indo-Mediterranean

If India wants faster growth, it must first solve its female labour force participation problem

India's female workforce participation lags behind peer nations. Boosting this rate could significantly increase GDP. Experts suggest focusing on job creation and improving employment quality. Labour law reforms and removing trade bottlenecks are crucial. Investing in health and education will also drive participation. These steps can foster economic growth and societal progress.

Weaponised dependency: Chinese mercantilism is more damaging to global trade than Trump tariffs

The recent US-China summit saw improved engagement but little progress on global economic challenges. China's trade practices continue to impact global markets. The US seeks a weaker dollar to address its economic imbalances. Both nations are weaponizing trade dependencies, leading to tech sector balkanization. India must focus on reforms to enhance its global competitiveness amidst these geopolitical shifts.

Elon Musk vs Sam Altman: AI control, not courtroom clash, is the bigger battle

Elon Musklosing his case againstSam Altmanreignites debate over AI governance, safety and whether institutions can keep pace with rapid advances in artificial intelligence.

LG Manoj Sinha attends Lal Ded National Award ceremony at SKICC Srinagar, honours women achievers

Mian Altaf strongly condemns demolition drive against tribal, nomadic families in Sidhra Jammu

Srinagar, May 19: Senior National conference leader and Member of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmed has strongly condemned the forest departments action against nomadic tribal-community in Sidhra area of Jammu where atleast 20 residential structures were demolished. Mian Altaf in a statement issued here has strongly condemned the demolition of Gujar Kothas and hutments in Sidhra Jammu in the guise of so called anti encroachment drive. The tribal community in Jammu and Kashmir was already in the grip of fear and insecurity due to the many such incidents in Jammu and the latest incident of demolishing their temporary structures in Jammu added to their worries and send shock waves in the entire nomadic community afresh he said. I strongly condemn the demolition of several residential structures belonging to poor tribal people in Sidhra Jammu today, who have been putting up there for decades. This high handedness by the administration and forest Deptt is unacceptable Mian Altaf said. Mian Altaf said that these nomadic families over decades to the hilly areas stay in several places near grasslands where they have grazed their cattle for centuries, adding that the-fact which the authorities should verify first before blindly going for their selective targeting. He said they have no other source of livelihood except grazing of cattle and authorities should think thrice before evicting them from their grazing land. Mian Altaf urged the Government to probe into the incident and administration must issue instructions to stop this immediately. He also sought resettlement of the affected families.

Tarigami slams demolition drive against tribal families in Sidhra

Srinagar, May 19: CPI(M) leader and MLA Kulgam Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami on Tuesday criticised the demolition of shelters belonging to tribal and nomadic families in Sidhra area of Jammu, calling the action unjustified and insensitive. Gujjar and Bakarwal families dependent on cattle rearing and seasonal migration were already living in difficult circumstances and such actions only add to their hardship. The affected families have been staying in these areas for years. Any move that leaves poor people without shelter must be viewed seriously and handled with humanity, Tarigami said. He urged the administration to stop such drives, review the matter properly and ensure relief and rehabilitation for the affected families. He added that tribal communities should not be made to feel insecure or targeted.

Sixteen Indian consular service centres to be set up in UAE

New Delhi, May 19: Sixteen new Indian consular service centres are going to be set up in the United Arab Emirates to provide easy access to people for consular services.The Alhind Tours and Travels formally signed an agreement with the Indian mission in this regard yesterday Spread across all seven emirates, the centers going to be operational from July 1, 2026, when Alhind officially takes over passport, visa and other consular services for the UAE's over 4.3 million-strong Indian community and foreigners visiting India This contract was earlier given to BLS International, which has held the contract since 2011. Arun Radhakrishnan, Operations Manager for Alhind in the UAE, locations of all 16 centres, which include six in Abu Dhabi at Al Khalidiya, Al Reem Island, Musaffah, Madinat Zayed, Ghayathi and Al Ain. Dubai will be served by two centres, in Bur Dubai and Dubai Investment Park (DIP), while Sharjah gets centres at Al Majaz and Rolla. The remaining centres will be located in Ajman (Al Jurf), Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, Khor Fakkan (Corniche), Kalba and Ras Al Khaimah. The centres in Dubai will be large enough with multiple counters to cater to the large Indian expat population in the emirate, he assured. The formal agreement signing ceremony took place at the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi the company said in a press release.

Amit Shah chairs 26th meeting of Central Zone Council in Bastar, Chhattisgarh

New Delhi, May 19: Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah, today chaired the 26th meeting of the Central Zonal Council (CZC) in Bastar, Chhattisgarh. The meeting was attended by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, along with senior officials from these member states and the Central Government. The meeting was organised by the Inter-State Council Secretariat, functioning under the Ministry of Home Affairs, with the Chhattisgarh Government as the host. Addressing the meeting, Amit Shah said that it is a matter of great joy that this meeting is being held in Bastar after achieving the historic milestone of a Naxal-free India. The entire credit for making India Naxal-free goes to the hard work and bravery of the jawans of our security forces. Our agencies collected inputs with great precision and, in coordination with the police forces of all states and the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), took timely and decisive action on every input. Along with this, under the 'Whole of the Government Approach', all state governments and all departments of the Central Government worked together to deliver development to the areas freed from Naxalism. Shah said that our fight is not over yet because the Naxal-affected areas have been lagging behind in the race for development for nearly five decades. He added that until these areas are brought at par with the rest of the country in terms of development, our fight will not end. On the occasion of the entire country becoming Naxal-free, the Union Home Minister extended his heartfelt congratulations to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Union Home Minister said that whatever was needed by the Chhattisgarh Government in the fight against Naxalism, they coordinated with the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, and ensured it was provided. Wherever leadership was required, the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister provided it. This is the result of their efforts that today Bastar has become Naxal-free. Shah said that after resolving all disputed issues between the states as well as between the states and the Centre, we are holding this meeting today in a very positive and cordial atmosphere. Shah said that all the agenda items in todays meeting were related to the monitoring of development works. He added that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, our federal structure has become stronger and meetings of the Zonal Councils are being held regularly. As a result, in a vast region covering four states, no disputes remain either among the four states or between these states and the Centre. This is a very significant achievement. Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that the Central Zonal Council comprises the states of Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Uttarakhand. This zone stretches from the Himalayan region in the north to the Gangetic plains and further to the plateau regions of central India, which are rich in forests and minerals. These areas are undoubtedly very important for the countrys development. He said that this region greatly helps in filling the countrys food-grain reserves. The rich mineral deposits of this area provide momentum to the nations development, and its rich heritage and culture have played a key role in advancing the country. It is also in this region that almost all the major centres of faith in the country are located in close proximity to one another. He added that Chhattisgarh connects nearly seven states, which gives the entire Central Zone immense strategic importance. The Home Minister said that today this entire region has become not only Naxal-free but also free from disputes, which is a matter of great joy for all of us. Amit Shah said that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a robust and vibrant mechanism for Zonal Council meetings has been established. We have made it decisive, brought continuity to it, and made it result-oriented. In the 10 years from 2004 to 2014, only 11 meetings of the Zonal Councils were held. This number has increased to 32 meetings between 2014 and 2026. During 2004 to 2014, the Standing Committee held only 14 meetings, which have risen 2.5 times to 35 meetings between 2014 and 2026. He said that between 2004 and 2014, discussions were held on just 569 issues, whereas from 2014 to 2026, discussions have taken place on 1,729 issues, out of which nearly 80% have also been resolved. A large number of the pending issues are related to monitoring, in which there is no dispute of any kind. Union Home Minister said that we should focus on Jal Jeevan Mission-2 and arrangements should be done to provide tap water to every household. He said that health, nutrition, and social welfare are extremely sensitive issues. The Home Minister called upon all the Chief Ministers and Chief Secretaries to join hands and move forward shoulder to shoulder with the Government of India in the fight against malnutrition. He added that a lot of work still needs to be done in the field of education to reduce school dropout rates and improve the quality of schools. Financial inclusion and power sector reforms can make a very significant contribution in transforming this developing region into a fully developed one. Amit Shah said that work should proceed with even greater momentum in the four sectors of urban planning, public health, financial inclusion, and power sector reforms. The Home Minister appealed that at least 50% of our attention should remain focused on rural development and schemes that empower individuals. The Home Minister said that ensuring the availability of banking facilities within a 5-kilometre radius is a significant achievement, because all our government schemes are based on Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Therefore, all states need to make concrete and serious efforts in this direction. Union Home said that if timely DNA testing is conducted in POCSO and rape cases, the conviction rate in these cases can increase to 100 per cent. Shri Shah said that High Courts should establish special courts for the speedy disposal of cases pending in courts for more than five years. The administration must demonstrate such seriousness in dealing with serious crimes. He urged the Chief Ministers of all four states to implement their state-level 1930 helpline in accordance with the model format of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and to update the call centres of the state helplines. He said that in cases of adulteration, wherever a case is registered and a penalty is imposed, there should be proper arrangements to publicise it widely. He added that this would make the public aware that adulterated items are being sold in those guilty shops. Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation said that the three Naveen Nyaya Sanhita of the criminal justice system have been implemented very effectively. He added that there are still many issues in their implementation on which we need to put greater emphasis. The Home Minister said that just as we have freed the country from Naxalism, similarly, we must achieve the target of disposing of every criminal case - right up to the Supreme Court - within three years, before 2029.

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