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True art, in its most profound sense, is always a reflection of the human condition, and the human condition is, by its very nature, political ANUSHAH RIYAZ This question has been the topic of discussion for many years now, where we analyse and look towards the inherent meaning of an artistic piece. Art is not just art any more. It is the collection of ones thoughts, opinions, privileges and abilities. It is how a person expresses themselves and makes a statement through their work. Art is political, and it has always been. Even when it doesnt visually scream protest or activism, it has always had an inherent meaning. The art may be a painting of a serene landscape, a domestic setting or an abstract painting. But there are always questions associated with it. Who gets to see it? Who gets to show it? Who gets to own it? These are all political questions. But this idea isnt new. George Orwell famously said that All art is propaganda, meaning that every creative work has an underlying purpose, value, or ideological weight. He viewed art not as an isolated aesthetic pursuit, but as a deeply political tool. He has asserted this point in many of his essays. In his essay, Frontiers of Art and Propaganda, Orwell stated that writing honestly required acknowledging the political realities of the time. The social and political purpose of art is undeniable. In his other essay, Why I Write, he says that When I sit down to write a book, I do not say to myself, I am going to produce a work of art. I write it because there is some lie that I want to expose, some fact to which I want to draw attention, and my initial concern is to get a hearing. This reinforces the idea that art is not just art for arts sake, but it has a deeper meaning behind it. Art is never just about aesthetics. It reflects power, identity and control, whether the artist intends it or not. Even art that seems decorative or apolitical upholds certain values. It reflects what is considered important, who is erased and what a culture deems worthy of attention. Some of the most powerful artworks in history have been seen as dangerous threats to the status quo. Pablo Picassos masterpiece, Guernica, was a large 1937 oil painting that depicted the aerial bombing of the Basque town of Guernica during the Spanish Civil War. It is one of the most powerful anti-war paintings in history. A tapestry version of the painting is hung outside the Security Chamber at the UN. It was covered up by the U.S. government when Colin Powell argued for the Iraq War in 2003. Sixty-six years after the original was made, the painting was still seen as a threat and an interruption in destroying thousands of innocent lives. The painting threatened to speak to historical parallels that the Bush administration and UN officials were determined the media or the public should not draw. Ai Weiwei is one of the worlds most famous living examples of an artist whose work proves that art is political. In fact, his famous personal motto is, Everything is art. Everything is politics. In 2008, a massive earthquake in Sichuan, China, killed thousands of children because of the poorly built schools in the area. The government tried to cover up how many children died, but Ai Weiwei collected the names of victims and displayed a giant wall of 9000 brightly coloured school backpacks on the side of a museum. The project, Remembering, was a direct and public attack on government corruption in China. It was a powerful statement against Chinese authority and challenged the current government. Trace is another one of his artworks. In 2014, when the Chinese government took away his passport so he could not leave the country, Ai Weiwei designed an art show for Alcatraz. Alcatraz is a famous former island prison in the United States. He used 1.2 million LEGO bricks to create portraits of 176 people from around the world who were jailed or exiled because of their political beliefs. Although he was under house arrest in Beijing during the time, he used digital blueprints, building layouts and internet data to plan the entire exhibition from his studio. The building process itself became a statement about bypassing government censorship through technology and international solidarity. The artwork features 176 distinct portraits of people who have spoken out against injustice. So, all art is shaped by its political and social context, access to resources and the identity of the artist. The very choice of medium, who gets to exhibit it and who can afford it, involves power and privilege. Governments, institutions and social media platforms continue to censor art even today when it crosses certain lines. Because art is powerful. It has the ability to influence people and persuade them to take action regarding things they care about. It makes people hope for a better world where people are no longer restricted by the constraints of class hierarchy, apartheid, racism and colonialism. They imagine a better world where people are free and able to express their opinions freely. They are no longer censored and forced to remain silent on certain issues. The act of free speech is inherently political and has always been. Art itself is an act of free speech. Therefore, every brushstroke, every painting and every carefully chosen word is because of a very specific context, inspired by the artists lived reality and shared with a world shaped by power dynamics. To create is to choose. To choose is to stand somewhere. And standing somewhere casts a shadow, which is political, whether intended or not. The very act of displaying ones art has always been something political. In earlier times, certain communities, such as women, people of colour and working-class individuals, were not allowed to display their art in a public space. They always had low representation in artistic works. Even today, museums which are controlled by high-profile billionaires and people who know nothing about art control which art gets to be shown, whose stories are told and whose voices are amplified. It is a political reality, one which still needs a lot of work to be done for. One question that is sometimes asked in this context is: Are a childs scribbles political? And the answer is yes. The very act of a child having paper and a pencil is a political statement. It reflects economic privilege, access to resources and the leisure time afforded by a certain class position. In a world where thousands of children are engaged in child labour in fields and factories, a childs scribbles are a reflection of a particular societal structure that allows for such innocent creativity. Even art forms that seem mundane, such as cooking, especially in the context of Palestinian cuisine, are deeply embedded with politics. For Palestinians, in times of displacement, occupation and blockade, the act of preparing food and sharing it was not just for nourishment. It became a profound act of resistance, of remembering ones history, culture, and heritage through these traditional recipes. The continuity of these traditions is a powerful political statement, asserting existence and belonging to their homeland. When an artist remains silent in times of genocide, war or systemic oppression, they do not escape politics but rather become complicit in it. The question is not whether art should be political, its whether we are willing to acknowledge the politics already embedded in it. True art, in its most profound sense, is always a reflection of the human condition, and the human condition is, by its very nature, political. (The author is an undergraduate student and literature enthusiast)
Open war?: The conflict between the Taliban and Pakistan
Since the creation of a Pakistani State after the dissolution of the British Empire, the relationships between Pakistan, India and Afghanistan have been volatile TIMOTHY FOXLY (MBE) Emboldened by their August 2021 return to power, the Afghan Talibans relationship with the Pakistani government has been redefined. Pakistan expected cooperation, but a major cause of friction has been the increasing use of Afghan territory by the Tehrik-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP - the Pakistani Taliban). The TTP, resolved to bring down the Pakistani government, have ramped up attacks against government and military targets, helped by safe havens in Afghanistan. Amidst rising tension, border clashes and low-level friction, has given way to Pakistani air strikes into Afghan population centres, including a major mass casualty event in Kabul in March 2026, attributed to a Pakistan air strike. Neither Afghanistan nor Pakistan can afford the economic and political turbulence, but a sustainable solution to the conflict looks distant. On 16 March 2026, a missile landed on a former American military base in eastern Kabul (formerly Camp Phoenix). The buildings had been re-purposed by the Taliban regime as a rehabilitation centre for Afghan drug addicts. It is beyond a reasonable doubt that a Pakistani military aircraft was responsible. The explosion is believed to have caused hundreds of casualties, dead and wounded. Pakistan claimed it was a precision strike against TTP military facilities. After several years of tension, friction, border skirmishes and escalating violence, a major conflict between Afghanistan and Pakistan broke out in February 2026. Pakistani Defence Minister, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, described it as a state of open war. Though this might be premature, the conflict has included air, rocket and artillery strikes conducted by the Pakistani military. Pakistan had long wished for a Taliban government in Afghanistan and had navigated a difficult and dangerous political path over the preceding twenty years to achieve that goal: pretending to assist the US-led military coalition and the democratically elected fledgling Afghan Republic while covertly working to support the Taliban, many of whom were benefiting from a safe haven in the western border areas of Pakistan, adjacent to neighbouring Afghanistan. Pakistans support for the Taliban during this time is routinely described as a Double Game. Shortly after the Taliban took power in August 2021, the chief of Pakistans intelligence agency Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) Lieutenant General Faiz Hameed was quick to visit the Taliban leadership and present his congratulations. Even then, there were concerns that the new phase of the relationship, with the newly installed Taliban regime now no longer so dependent upon Pakistani largesse, might not go as well as Pakistan might hope; Pakistan has certain influence on Taliban but they (Taliban) have many complaints from us, Rustam Shah Mohmand, Afghan affairs expert who had served as Pakistan's envoy to Kabul, told Arab News. Too much interference in their government formation could backfire. This article is not intended to be a history lesson of the longer relationship between Afghanistan and Pakistan, but it is important to sketch in a few key and recurring - themes. Since the creation of a Pakistani State after the dissolution of the British Empire, the relationships between Pakistan, India and Afghanistan have been volatile. Pakistans engagement with Afghanistan should generally be seen in the context of Pakistans confrontations with India and Pakistans fear that Afghanistan might become a client State of India, thereby strategically surrounding Pakistan. Since the mid-nineties, Pakistan has invested much time and money seeking to ensure that the Taliban become a client of Pakistan and dominate Afghanistan in a manner favourable to Pakistan. Pakistani military intelligence played an important even decisive role in bringing about the rise of the Taliban by providing training, weapons, logistical support and a safe haven in western Pakistan from where they could retrain, regroup and recruit. The boundary between eastern Afghanistan and western Pakistan the Durand Line was a British imperial construct, designed to protect British-controlled India against Russian advances across Central Asia. It sliced through a complex, millennia-long network of Pashtun tribes for whom the Durand Line meant nothing. While technically the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan, it is not respected by Pashtuns, who continue to use ancient paths and smuggling routes. It is relatively straightforward for those wishing to avoid government attention, which in the late-20th and early 21st centuries increasingly included criminal gangs, drug traffickers and terrorists, to slip over the mountains and through the lesser-known forests and valleys in both directions. The decades of conflict in Afghanistan the Soviet occupation of 1979-1989, the civil war in the 1990s, the rise of the Taliban in the late nineties and the international military intervention from late 2001 that led to twenty years of Taliban guerrilla warfare exacerbated the economic and security problems of this border region. Starting in the early 1980s, millions of Afghan refugees took up semi-permanent and permanent residence in refugee camps and cities in western Pakistan, offering fruitful recruiting grounds for other terrorist groups, including Pakistani-backed terrorist groups focused on India, including Jammu & Kashmir. From 2007, a Pakistani Taliban began to emerge (Tehrik e-Taliban Pakistan TTP), declaring allegiance to the Afghan Talibans Supreme Leader. In 2011, the United Nations declared that the TTP was associated with Al Qaeda. The group has continued to launch attacks across Pakistan, including suicide bombings. The TTP have been inspired by the Afghan Talibans military success in Afghanistan and have similar goals for Pakistan the violent removal of the government and the establishment of their own vision of an Islamic State. When the Taliban took power, it became convenient even logical - for the TTP to use Afghanistan as a base for its operations in Pakistan. The Taliban deny that they are allowing the TTP to operate from Afghanistan. Here are the two painful ironies for Pakistan; Pakistan supported the Afghan Taliban which, in turn supported the Pakistani Taliban who are attacking Pakistan. Furthermore, Pakistan enabled the 2001 2021 Taliban insurgency in Afghanistan by allowing them a safe haven (and other forms of support) in western Pakistan. Now the TTP may be receiving safe haven in Afghanistan in order to conduct operations into Pakistan. So, the post-August 2021 Pakistan-Afghanistan honeymoon period wore off. Pakistans concern about a TTP presence in Afghanistan and increasing TTP attacks in Pakistan began to grow. Diplomatic protests began to give way to threats of military action. There were some early disputes and skirmishes about the locations of border posts and the activities of the military personnel of both sides. In December 2021, Pakistan complained that the Taliban had prevented its soldiers from setting up a security fence opposite Nangarhar province. In February 2022, Pakistan claimed that five of its soldiers had been killed by militants in a cross-border firefight. In 2023, skirmishes occurred several times at border crossing points. In March and September 2024, the Pakistani Air Force launched strikes at targets in the south-eastern Afghan provinces of Paktika and Khost. A regular feature of the Afghan-Pakistan conflict is the lack of clarity over casualties: Pakistan claimed to have struck militants, while the Taliban claimed dozens of women and children had been killed. Many of the claims and military actions have been fuelled by the dialogue of revenge and the need to demonstrate robust actions in response to previous attacks. The situation deteriorated further in 2025, with the TTP increasing its attacks in Pakistan. On 9 October, a TTP attack killed eleven Pakistani troops including a Lieutenant Colonel - near the Afghan border. Later that day, explosions were heard in Kabul. Although many judged that this was a Pakistani airstrike, the cause was very unclear. The Economist reported that air strikes in Kabul may have taken place on two separate days in mid-October. But, even if the reports were unconfirmed, it raised serious concerns that the Pakistani military was probably open to targeting Kabul and thereby significantly escalating the tensions - in retaliation for TTP actions in Pakistan. Concerns that were, only months later, to be realised. The security situation took an even more worrying nose-dive in early 2026. On 26 February, Pakistan launched more extensive military operations in Afghanistan, declaring Operation Righteous Fury as a statement of Open War against the Taliban. Air strikes hit Kabul and Kandahar. Afghan border positions and military facilities were hit. The Taliban, for their part, attacked Pakistani border outposts, possibly including the use of drone strikes. The United Nations said 370 Afghans had been killed in the first three months of 2026. On 16 March 2026, an airstrike hit eastern Kabul, causing a major mass casualty event in which a Pakistani missile hit the Omid Drug Rehabilitation Hospital, a rehabilitation centre for drug addicts. In the bleak and very violent story of Afghanistans last forty years, it is even possible that the attack on the rehab centre may turn out be the deadliest attack in recent history. A United Nations report gives a figure of 269 believed dead, although the figure may be higher (the Taliban say 411 killed). Patient documents were destroyed in the attack, many individuals are still missing, some casualties were unidentifiable, and other casualties may have been taken home or to the hospital by friends and family without their information being recorded. It is difficult to see a significant improvement in Afghanistan-Pakistan relations in the short to medium term. Both sides favour tough rhetoric that denies, denounces and deflects. Attacks frequently generate more revenge attacks. However, the tensions between the two countries are not purely about the TTP. The location and recognition of the border formerly known as the Durand Line remains in dispute. Patrolling and maintaining border posts in a geographically challenging area where the border is not agreed will continue to generate friction and clashes. The abrupt, aggressive forced deportation of millions of Afghans from Pakistan back to Afghanistan is also a major cause of dispute and regularly threatens to overwhelm the Talibans, themselves dependent upon aid agencies, ability to absorb large numbers. Deportations have increased the Afghan population by around ten percent over the last three years, at a time when humanitarian conditions in Afghanistan are extremely poor. Peace talks brokered by China and others may bring a lessening in the violence, and neither side benefits from the major economic disruption caused by the closure of key trade routes. The Taliban will continue to deny that they are supporting the TTP by allowing them to operate from Afghanistan, and Pakistan will continue to point to militant groups attacking into Pakistan. Recent reporting suggests the TTP have been told to leave Kabul, presumably more to make their presence less overt rather than a wider move to clear out the TTP. The Pakistan government almost certainly privately recognise that they were responsible for the strike on the rehab centre. This might make them more wary of future use of airpower near large population centres. It is perhaps premature to describe the violence as an all-out war, but skirmishes in the border areas - provinces such as Kunar, Nangarhar, Paktiya and Khost) - likely including artillery, rockets and airstrikes will very likely continue, and civilian casualties are unfortunately certain. (The Author is a Research Fellow at the European Foundation for South Asian Studies (EFSAS) and can be reached at info@efsas.org . He has previously been affiliated with the UK Ministry of Defence and the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).
CEO Budgam Directs Schools for Pulse Polio Drive
Srinagar, June 27: The Chief Education Officer (CEO), Budgam, has directed all Cluster Head Principals, Zonal Education Officers, and Heads of Government and Private educational institutions to extend full cooperation for the successful implementation of the Pulse Polio Immunization (National Immunization Day) programme scheduled for June 28. According to an official communication issued by the CEO Budgam said the immunization drive will be followed by a door-to-door campaign on June 29 and 30 to vaccinate children who may have been left out during the main programme. The Department of Family Welfare, Maternal and Child Health (MCH) and Immunization, Jammu and Kashmir, has sought the active support of the Education Department to ensure 100 per cent immunization coverage of all children in the 05 years age group. The CEO has instructed all educational institutions with children in the 35 years age group to create awareness among parents and the community regarding the importance of polio vaccination. Schools have been asked to circulate vaccination awareness messages through WhatsApp groups and other available communication platforms to encourage parents to bring their eligible children for immunization. Institutions have also been directed to spread awareness among students about the vaccination of their younger siblings who fall within the eligible age group. The CEO asked Schools to provide school teachers as vaccinators wherever required and make school premises available as vaccination booths, if necessary, to facilitate smooth vaccination and prevent overcrowding at health centres.
Thousands Join 11th Muharram Procession in Magam
Budgam, June 27: Thousands of mourners from various parts of the Kashmir Valley participated in the 11th Muharram (Ashoora) procession at Magam on Saturday, commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The main Zuljana Sharief procession commenced from Imambara Magam and culminated at the Main Chowk in the late evening. Men, women, children, and elderly devotees took part in the solemn procession, paying tribute to the sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions at Karbala. Residents of Magam displayed remarkable hospitality by setting up sabeels along the procession route, offering drinking water, juice, fruits, tea, and food free of cost to the mourners. Several families also opened their homes to provide refreshments and welcome participants. The district administration and Jammu and Kashmir Police established facilitation stalls at Magam main town , where lemon water, juice, and other essential refreshments were distributed throughout the day to ensure the comfort of the participants. Speaking to reporters, Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan, said the administration had made comprehensive arrangements to ensure the smooth, peaceful, and hassle-free conduct of Muharram processions across the district. Processions were held at various locations across Budgam district, and all necessary arrangements, including security, traffic regulation, healthcare services, and civic amenities, were put in place for the convenience of the mourners, he said. The Deputy Commissioner said preparations for the Muharram observances had begun nearly two months in advance. He said all concerned departments were directed to ensure uninterrupted electricity and drinking water supply, functional street lighting, road repairs and macadamisation, sanitation, and adequate healthcare facilities along the procession routes. Officials and employees from the civil administration and the police remained deployed on the ground throughout the processions to provide assistance and ensure that mourners did not face any inconvenience. The peaceful conclusion of the processions reflects the coordinated efforts of all stakeholders, he added. Athar Aamir further said that elaborate security and traffic management plans were implemented to facilitate the peaceful observance of the 11th Muharram processions across the district. The Deputy Commissioner and the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) also joined officials in serving water and refreshments to mourners at various points along the procession route. Expressing gratitude to all stakeholders, government departments, volunteers, and members of the local community, the Deputy Commissioner appreciated their active cooperation in ensuring the smooth, orderly, and peaceful conduct of the 11th Muharram observances across Budgam district.
Shopian Vendors Hit Hard by Relocation to New Vending Zone
Administration defends move to decongest town Shopian, June 27: The relocation of street vendors to a newly designated vending zone has sparked resentment among traders in Shopian, with many alleging a sharp decline in business and inadequate facilities at the new site. While the administration says the move is aimed at decongesting the town and streamlining vending activities, affected vendors claim it has jeopardised their livelihoods and diminished the traditional vibrancy of the historic market. Under the new arrangement, the administration has allotted 168 vending slots in the designated zone, leaving several other vendors on a waiting list. For decades, Shopian's street vendors have been an integral part of the town's commercial life, particularly around the Jamia Market area, which attracted large crowds, especially on Fridays. Social activist Mitha Gatto said the relocation has stripped the town of its distinctive market atmosphere. Several vendors said their incomes have plummeted since the relocation. Mohammad Sidiq Lone, who has been operating a cart in the town for 35 years, said he had consistently paid the Municipal Council's daily fee and earned enough to support his family, including meeting the medical expenses of his wife. He said the move had left his family's future uncertain. Farooq Ahmad, formerly stationed at Zero Point on the Mughal Road, claimed that in the week since shifting to the new zone, he had earned less than 1,000 in total, while Shamim Ahmad, a vegetable vendor near Jamia Masjid for three decades, said he had never faced such a severe financial crisis, even during prolonged lockdowns. Apart from reduced customer footfall, vendors also complained about the lack of basic infrastructure at the new site. They said poor lighting and additional transportation costs have further added to their difficulties. Responding to the concerns, Executive Officer of the Municipal Council Shopian, Suhail Ahmad Malik, said the administration was taking steps to improve facilities at the vending zone. He said gates were being installed to secure the area at night, while the lighting system had been put in place and was being made operational. He also said CCTV cameras had been installed, with live monitoring available at the Municipal Council office to ensure the safety of vendors. Despite these assurances, many vendors remain dissatisfied, saying the new location has significantly affected their daily earnings and the character of Shopian's traditional marketplace.
Lal Chowk Clock Tower Emerges as Major Tourist Attraction Smart City facelift boosts footfall
Srinagar, June 27: The iconic Clock Tower at Lal Chowk, once known primarily as the political and commercial heart of Kashmir, has evolved into one of Srinagars biggest tourist attractions, with hundreds of visitors thronging the landmark every day to capture photographs, shoot videos and soak in the citys vibrant atmosphere. The historic Ghanta Ghar, which underwent a major facelift under the Srinagar Smart City project, has become a must-visit destination for tourists from across the country. The redeveloped pedestrian-friendly plaza, decorative lighting, seating spaces and well-maintained surroundings have transformed the landmark into a lively public space. Throughout the day, tourists can be seen posing with the Clock Tower, recording social media reels and exploring the bustling markets surrounding Lal Chowk. We had seen the Clock Tower in news reports and travel videos for years. Visiting it was at the top of our itinerary in Srinagar, said Priya Verma, a tourist from New Delhi. The place looks beautiful and has a wonderful atmosphere. We have clicked dozens of pictures here. For many visitors, the Clock Tower has become a symbol of modern Srinagar while retaining its historical significance. Lal Chowk is the identity of Srinagar. Standing in front of the Clock Tower and taking a photograph makes you feel connected to the city, said Rohan Mehta, a tourist from Mumbai. The entire area is clean, vibrant and full of life. Local traders say the steady influx of tourists has boosted business in the city centre. Earlier, tourists mostly visited Dal Lake and the Mughal Gardens. Now, almost every visitor spends time at Lal Chowk before returning, said Suhail Shah, a shopkeeper near the Clock Tower. Many tourists shop, dine and spend hours here, which has helped businesses immensely. Young residents also frequent the landmark during evenings, when the illuminated Clock Tower becomes a popular gathering spot. Tourism stakeholders believe the transformation of Lal Chowk has added another urban attraction to Kashmirs growing tourism landscape, complementing the valleys natural beauty.
Ganderbal Under Multi-Layered Security for Amarnath Yatra
Surveillance, Mock Drills and Counter-Terror Measures Intensified Ganderbal, June 27: With the commencement of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026 just days away, security agencies have activated an extensive multi-tier security architecture across Ganderbal district, particularly along the Baltal axis, to ensure the annual pilgrimage is conducted without any disruption. Over the past several days, Jammu and Kashmir Police, assisted by the Army, Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs), SDRF, Fire & Emergency Services, Health Department and civil administration, have been carrying out an intensive series of security exercises, operational reviews and contingency planning, reflecting one of the most comprehensive security mobilisations ahead of this year's Yatra. The latest review was conducted on Saturday when DIG Central Kashmir Range Rajiv Omprakash Pande visited the Joint Police Control Room (JPCR) at Baltal to assess the ground-level preparedness. During the review, senior officers evaluated deployment patterns, surveillance systems, communication networks, traffic regulation, emergency response capabilities and coordination among multiple security agencies responsible for securing the pilgrimage route. Officials said the emphasis remains on maintaining round-the-clock surveillance, strengthening area domination, securing vulnerable stretches and ensuring rapid response to any emerging situation. Sources in the security establishment said the Baltal route has witnessed a significant enhancement in security deployment, with additional focus on strategic locations, high-altitude stretches and sensitive transit points where multiple agencies are working under an integrated command and coordination mechanism. Preparations have not remained limited to deployment alone. During the past week, Ganderbal Police has organised multiple high-intensity mock drills at Malshahi Bagh, Sonamarg, Z-Morh Tunnel, Gund, Badampora and several other critical locations along the Yatra corridor. These exercises simulated terror attacks, medical emergencies, evacuation operations, stampede situations, natural disasters and crowd-management scenarios to assess operational readiness under real-time conditions. Security agencies have simultaneously intensified highway checking across the Ganderbal-Baltal National Highway. Multi-layer vehicle checking points, increased surveillance, random inspections and continuous monitoring are now part of the security strategy aimed at preventing any potential threat before it reaches the Yatra route. Officials are also carrying out Advance Security Tasking (AST) operations across strategic locations. These exercises involve advance sanitisation of vulnerable areas, assessment of operational preparedness and strengthening coordination among different security agencies before the arrival of pilgrims. Earlier, Inspector General of Police Kashmir V.K. Birdi, along with DIG CKR Rajiv Omprakash Pande and DIG Armed Kashmir Maqsood-Ul-Zaman, addressed officers deployed for the Yatra during a comprehensive briefing at the Police Training School, Manigam. The officers were sensitised on deployment plans, contingency protocols, operational responsibilities and coordination mechanisms, with particular emphasis on intelligence sharing, effective communication and swift response to emergencies. The overall security arrangements have also been reviewed at the highest level by Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, who recently held a detailed meeting with senior officers of the Army, CRPF, BSF, SSB, ITBP and Jammu and Kashmir Police to review both the Yatra security architecture and ongoing counter-terror preparedness across Kashmir. With security deployment now entering its final phase, officials say the objective is to maintain a seamless balance between robust security and smooth facilitation of pilgrims. Multiple layers of security, continuous surveillance, area domination patrols, emergency response teams and inter-agency coordination will remain operational throughout the duration of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra-2026 to ensure a safe and peaceful pilgrimage.
CMRL commuters struggle to get paperQR tickets; staff issue handwritten slips
Amid political turmoil, Congress opens door for KC(M) in K.M. Mani Hospital panel
Move brings to an end months of uncertainty over the reconstitution of the Hospital Management Committee of the K.M. Mani Memorial Government General Hospital
Rowdy sheeter hacked to death on busy J.P. Nagar Main Road
1.89 lakh children to be administered polio drops in Visakhapatnam district on June 28
Officials to conduct house-to-house visits on June 29 and 30 to immunise the children who missed the vaccination on Sunday
Heavy gunfire in Pakistan's Karachi after reported explosion near Rangers offices
At least two people were injured and taken to hospital, said a statement from Edhi Foundation which provides emergency assistance in Pakistan
Tension as footwear is hurled at Congress MLA Pradeep Eshwar
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Parents of Radha Gayatri meet Visakhapatnam Police Commissioner
External review clears HDFC Bank of ex-chairmans concerns
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Lone station in ASR district receives 107.5 mm rain, other places A.P. receive light showers
Wet spell brings some relief to northern parts of State; thunderstorms, light rain and gusty winds are expected across the State till June 30
After mangoes, HOPCOMS plans to deliver fresh vegetables to your doorstep
HOPCOMS is currently studying the vegetable market and the kind of vegetables people prefer to consume across Bengaluru
Kotak Bank MD Ashok Vaswani to quit after completion of 3-year tenure, not to seek extension
For the quarter ended March 2026, Kotak Mahindra Bank reported a 10% rise in consolidated net profit at 5,423 crore as against 4,933 crore in the same period a year ago
We want to play aggressively against the Aussies: Smriti
We have all spoken a lot about how we really want to be playing the aggressive brand of cricket and that is something which we will all look to do tomorrow, Mandana said
APCC demands judicial probe into Ayodhya Ram temple donation case
Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi Teerth Kshetra Trust has betrayed the faith of millions through irregularities involving hundreds of crores of rupees, says Shivaji
AI should be considered as a tool to assist humans, says expert
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Persistent to acquire German digital engineering firm Nagarro for 1.1 billion
Anand Deshpande, Founder, Chairman and Managing Director, Persistent Systems said, AI is reshaping our industry at an unprecedented pace. Success will belong to companies that combine deep technical capability with global reach, while continuing to attract, develop and inspire exceptional people.
Centre debunks social media claims over Rajnath Singhs Operation Sindoor speech
According to the clarification by the Ministry of Defence, Rajnath Singhs remarks were specifically intended to counter a widely circulated false narrative at the time that claimed Indian Air Force pilots had been killed during Operation Sindoor
A plea to protect Naattu Kaalvai
Residents seekdesilting, removal of encroachments and prevention of sewage discharge into the canal
Accentures revenue growth guidance cut shocks tech industry
Accenture recently narrowed its full-year 2026 revenue growth guidance to 3-4%, down from 3-5% earlier, triggering an immediate plunge in its own stock prices and throwing the rest of the global tech services industry, which is already hit by global uncertainties, into a new tizzy.
Hezbollah chief calls U.S.-Israel-Lebanon deal 'grave blunder', deems it null and void
Hezbollah leader Qassem called on the government to withdraw from its sins that are ruining Lebanon.
A tribute to three timeless legends of Tamil music
An apartment inThiruvanmiyurand a cultural group from Besant Nagar team up to present a musical evening on June 28 inAdyar
MDMK cuts ties with DMK alliance, pledges support to TVK government
MDMK General Secretary Vaiko announced that the party will extend its support to the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government and will abstain from contesting the upcoming by-elections to back the ruling party.
CM to lay foundation for short tunnel near Hebbal today
Bengalis honouredfor their contribution
Survey sketch for Pariyathukavu rehabilitation ready: Collector
The sketch will be handed over to the seven families and the High Court on Monday
A call to protect a park in Triplicane
Residents of Chellapillayar Koil Street and Hussain Mulk Road in Triplicane want Greater Chennai Corporation to ensure a roadside temple does not extend into Balasubramaniam Park and the street space around it as well
Car destroyed in fire; no casualty
National inter-State athletics: Ancy shatters Anjus 22-year-old National record
Sarvesh and Yoonus also set new marks in mens high jump and 1500m, respectively
Help end proxy war by armed Kuki groups, Manipur Naga body urges PM
In a memorandum to the Prime Minister, Naga organisations say armed Kuki groups, including a Myanmar-based one, are waging a proxy war against the Nagas
Portrayal of pellet-hit victims in Bollywood film Chauhaan sparks anguish in Kashmir
A teaser for the Ajay Devgn-starrer Chauhaan shows a youth hit by pellets in the eyes during protests, with the actor describing it as limited damage in a voiceover
AIADMK MLA urges action against overpriced fertilizer sales in Kanniyakumari
Imtiaz Ali on the triumph of Main Vaapas Aaunga
Director Imtiaz Ali is basking in the success of his latest, Main Vaapas Aaunga. In this interview, he talks to The Hindu about the movies remarkable turnaround after a slow start.
Concrete rebirthofNageswaraRao Park decried
A resident ofLuzAvenue challenges the redevelopment plan drawn up for the green space
Parkour athlete stumped by Anna Nagar signals
Vignesh Raghavan points out that the lack of a countdown timer at three signals on Third Avenue in Anna Nagar catches motorists on the wrong side of the stop line; and they end up with a traffic challan for no fault of theirs
Bengaluru: Seven arrested, including two rowdy-sheeters, for plotting revenge
MOP Vaishnav, DG Vaishnav lead in tournament participation
The institutions recently won theSivanthiAdityanRolling Trophy
Govt. caps slab area under Indiramma Housing scheme
Fatherless student fails to pay fee, Telangana HC senior counsels come to her rescue
The alert was triggered after an email surfaced warning of possible attacks in the coming days.
Sujata Rout no ordinary cadre, key to BJDs revival push
If the BJD can rebuild its activities around a committed core group, it can regain its footing in Odisha, feel political commentators; with her personal contacts with leaders of women SHGs, Sujata Rout can regroup women for the partys cause ahead of panchayat elections early next year
Indian firm, CEO among entities sanctioned by U.S. for fuelling civil war in Sudan
The U.S. Treasury Departments Office of Foreign Assets Control said the targeted networks enabled both the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces to expand and intensify civil war
Online homestay booking scam: Man loses 99,666 in cyber fraud
SRINAGAR, JUNE 27: The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha today met with Civil Society Groups, Business Leaders, and Religious Heads to discuss the upcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. During his interaction, the Lieutenant Governor appealed to all sections of the society to actively support and contribute to this sacred journey, which is a true symbol of social harmony and he urged the public to come forward to ensure a memorable spiritual experience for all pilgrims. The Lieutenant Governor said that Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra is an opportunity to showcase our culture of selfless service, compassion, and hospitality to the world. Let us unite across all sectors to make this years pilgrimage a beacon of faith, unity, and devotion. As pilgrims embark on the sacred journey to Baba Barfanis cave, let us transform our devotion into compassionate action, making this Yatra a true testament to ultimate experience and human kindness, he said. This sacred journey of devotion, dedication and faith will begin on 3 July and conclude on 28 August this year. The Lieutenant Governor said that the representatives of civil society, religious and business leaders, and social workers are the guardians of our nations moral conscience. Everyone present here is a custodian of spiritual traditions. Generation after generation, we have ensured that Baba Amarnaths ancient spiritual heritage remains vibrant. As we prepare once again to welcome the devotees, I look to each of you for your guidance and cooperation. Your role is vital in ensuring that every pilgrim experiences respect, safety and a sense of belonging, the Lieutenant Governor said. The Lieutenant Governor stated that Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra has shaped our faith, culture and identity since time immemorial. He said the sacred Yatra reminds us of our eternal bond with Lord Shiva, the symbol of infinite power, knowledge and compassion. Each year pilgrims come from across the country and abroad and they bring not only their prayers but also the hopes and aspirations of all humanity, he said. Every year the world bears witness that the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra is an occasion where people of all faiths, communities and walks of life unite in the spirit of serving the pilgrims. Let us make Baba Barfanis Yatra an exemplary model of devotion and service. Let us show the world that when devotion and service go hand in hand, the impossible becomes possible. Let us ensure that every pilgrim feels our hospitality and warmth. This is an occasion when Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians and followers of all faiths in Jammu Kashmir stand together in the cause of human service. That unity is our greatest strength, he said. The Lieutenant Governor also emphasized that over the past few years, Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board and other stakeholders continuously worked to make the Yatra smoother and safer. Roads have been widened, communication facilities improved and infrastructure modernized. He said Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra is now equipped with world-class facilities. During the interaction, the members of civil society unanimously extended their support and cooperation for the successful conduct of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra. They appreciated the extensive arrangements made by the Administration and the Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board over the past few years, stating that significant improvements in infrastructure, security, healthcare, sanitation and pilgrim facilities have greatly enhanced the overall Yatra experience. The Lieutenant Governor also welcomed the valuable suggestions shared by the civil society members and other stakeholders. He assured them that all genuine recommendations would be thoroughly examined for implementation. The interaction was attended by Shri Altaf Ahmad Wani, Shri Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi and Shri Mian Mehar Ali, Members of Legislative Assembly; Shri Nalin Prabhat, Director General of Police; Dr Mandeep K Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lieutenant Governor and CEO, Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board; Shri Anshul Garg, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir; Shri VK Birdi, IGP Kashmir; Deputy Commissioners, senior officials, representatives of religious and social organisations, trade and business associations, social organisations and other prominent members of civil society also participated.
Indias FTA with many countries has opened up export potential, says Union Minister
Home textile products of Karur had a great demand in the U.S., Canada, and European countries; while 70% of products from Karur were exported, 30% of products were marketed in India, says Union Minister for Textiles Giriraj Singh
Thoothukudi cyber crime police arrest two in 24.64 lakh international currency trading scam
In a U-turn, Punjab government notifies VB-G RAM G scheme
In December 2025, the Bhagwant Mann government had convened a special session of the Punjab Assembly, which had unanimously passed a resolution against the VB-G RAM G Act
Couple, son found dead in Muvattupuzha river, search on for missing daughter
Two BJP-led States question wage burden under VB-G RAM G
Bihar, MP and Jharkhand question 60:40 funding pattern; five seek wage revision, four raise concerns over non-working days; most flag pending dues
DC Budgam, SSP visit Magam, Beerwah areas to oversee 11th Muharram arrangements
BUDGAM, JUNE 27: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Athar Aamir Khan, along with SSP Budgam, Hari Prasad KK, today visited Magam and Beerwah areas to oversee the arrangements put in place for the observance of the 11th Muharram. The officers also joined the Muharram procession in Magam. They were accompanied by Additional SP Budgam, Syed Sajjad Bukhari; Sub-Divisional Magistrate Beerwah, Toufeeq Gazi; Chief Medical Officer, Dr.Gulzar; SDPO, Tehsildar Magam, SHO Magam, and other concerned district officers. Comprehensive arrangements for security, traffic management, parking, electricity, water supply, health and medical facilities, sanitation have been put in place. The Duo also participated in serving water and refreshments to the mourners at various points enroute. The DC expressed gratitude to all stakeholders, departments, community members, and volunteers to their active role in ensuring smooth and peaceful conduct of the 11th Muharram observances.
Police flag over 30 safety issues lurking on city roads
The police have detected 15 issues to be rectified by the PWD and 14 by the NHAI so far this year
Upset over breakup, man blows up car; woman escapes with minor injuries
PM Modi hands over 'Made in India' patrol vessel to Seychelles Coast Guard
The Ministry of External Affairs said that PM Modi also handed over six ambulances, 10 utility vehicles and five laser radial boats, which it said would further contribute to Seychelles development and security
Four arrested for murder in Mailardevpally
Gachibowli police arrest man for blackmailing women with intimate videos, extorting money
Plea in Supreme Court seeks creation of fire safety framework for high-risk public buildings
Petitioner says right to life under Article 21 is not a right to be rescued after a fire, but a right not to be knowingly exposed to preventable fires by a State with requisite power, codes, duty to prevent such danger
Two-day Kukkarahalli Kere Habba begins
Restore power, water supply for school to run smoothly: HC to Telangana Dairy Federation
NHRC seeks reports from DGP, Chief Secretary on Sai Krishna custodial death
Rights panel flags possible violation of Article 21; seeks details of SIT probe, action against accused police personnel, while teams fan out to arrest head constables allegedly involved in destroying evidence
It is evident that the public has become merely a means for the BJP government to extract taxes and increase its collections, says Kharge
