All News From Jammu & Kashmir Dated : 20-03-15
5 Dariya News
Jammu & Kashmir 20-Mar-2015
Militants storm police station in Kathua Attack leaves six dead
5 Dariya News
Kathua
Suspected militants Friday stormed a police station close to International border in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir killing at least three Government Forces personnel and injuring nine of them. Both the suspected militants were also killed in the counter attack. The deceased included two militants, three government forces personnel and a civilian.Police sources told CNS that militants in Army fatigues stormed police station Raj Bagh during the wee hours on Friday. “The militants two in number arrived in a Mahindra vehicle and as soon as they reached near the gate of police station, one of them directly fired upon a police man in head, guarding the gate killing him on spot. The militants fired indiscriminately creating panic in the peripheries,” he said.Police sources said that the militants wearing Army uniforms intercepted a jeep going from Jammu to Pathankot on the pretext of checking the vehicle. They reportedly hijacked the jeep which had three passengers on board and fled towards the Rajbagh Police Station where they opened fire on a sentry and killed him. The militants then hurled grenades at the police station and opened indiscriminate fire.
During the militant onslaught, three government forces personnel were killed while a civilian also lost his life. At least nine police and CRPF personnel suffered injuries. Soon after the attack, reinforcement was dispatched to the encounter site and government forces after cordoning off the area neutralized both the militants. Choppers were pressed into service to nab and eliminate the militants. Confirming the killing of two militants, Jammu and Kashmir police chief K.Rajendra said encounter came to an end during afternoon hours, however, search operation continued in the area.Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah said the insurgents would have infiltrated into this side from across the border.
"These Fidayeen will have walked across the border last night & launched their attack this morning which is the past pattern as well," he tweeted."My thoughts are with those brave security personnel dealing with the fidayeen attach in Kathua town of Jammu this morning," he said.Inspector General of Police Jammu Zone Disnesh Rana said that, “we are clearing the area, verifying the facts and will examine the documents we have recovered from militants.”On 26 September 2013, three heavily armed militants had attacked a police station and an Army camp in the border districts of Kathua and Samba killing 10 people, including four policemen and a lieutenant colonel of the Army. (CNS)
Patient ‘forced ‘to visit private hospital for surgery
MS admits prevalence of ‘Middlemen Culture’ in B&J Hospital
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
A two year old kid was sent home twice from Bones and Joint Hospital while his father waited for three days before his kid was given a referral by a doctor to attend a private hospital for surgery on his legs that had caused fracture due to a sudden fall from a height.Two years old kid from frontier district Kupwara Mir Talish son of Mir Saleem was injured and suffered fracture in his legs when he had a sudden fall from roof of his house. He was immediately rushed to SMHS Hospital where doctors directed him have a surgery at Bones and Joint Hospital.“My son was withering with pain whom I admitted in Bones and Joint Hospital Srinagar under MRD number 113302. Doctors refused to do a surgery saying that he is only two years old kid. They sent me home twice and when the pain of the child reached to an unbearable limit, I arrived in Hospital again and the doctors instead of treating him, directed me to admit the kid in GB Panth Hospital,” Mir Saleem told CNS.
He said that the doctors at GB Panth Hospital after seeing the condition of the kid were shocked and advised me to admit him in Bones and Joint Hospital for an immediate surgery.
“I received a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Registrar GB Panth Hospital Dr Mohsin who in his letter requested the Bones and Joint Hospital doctors to do an immediate surgery of the kid,” he said.He said that doctors at Bones and Joint Hospital after going through the NOC agreed for the surgery. “The doctors advised me to keep the stomach of the kid empty and did not administer him any food before the surgery. I did the same and for 12 hours after keeping my child hungry, the doctors refused to go for the surgery once again and instead the Doctor Irfan from Fifth Unit of the hospital motivated me to get the child admitted in Florence Hospital Channapora for the surgery.
First these doctors wasted my time and let the child suffer from pain and then to earn some commission, asked me to move to private hospital,” he said and alleged that these doctors have been acting as middlemen and have been forcing patients to visit private hospitals.Medical Superintendent Bones and Joint Hospital Barzulla Dr Shabir admitted that some doctors in the hospital have been acting as middlemen and for sake of Commission are forcing patients to visit private hospitals. “This is the major problem which I have noticed here. I have been working hard to put an end to this middlemen culture. I request the father of the kid to approach me and identify the doctor or doctors himself and I will initiate action against them,” Medical Superintendent told CNS.
SMC launches sanitation drive in city hospitals, schools
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
To begin with a fresh summer spell and improvisation of sanitation in the city, Srinagar Municipal Corporation today kick started an extensive sanitation drive here at SHMS hospital.This is the beginning of the drive which Srinagar Municipal Corporation shall be launching in all the hospitals and schools in the phased manner that falls within its jurisdiction in the coming week.The move aims at creating healthy environment around these places so that the people including students, faculty, patients and others while approaching these institutions shall feel comfortable and do not face any inconvenience.
The drive which was personally monitored by Commissioner SMC was conducted both at micro and macro level within the indoors and outdoors of the hospital premises including the wards.
Many wards could not be attended due to the occupancy of beds and shall be attended in a phased manner at the behest of hospital administration after their consultation.In addition to deployment of fifty sanitary workers, SMC also deputed phenyl sprinklers/ vehicles and fogging guns in the hospital.huge quantity of garbage was lifted and the specific areas within the hospitals were properly fumigated with the disinfectants,, and other cleansing agents.meanwhile the authorities from various schools and hospitals can put forth a requisition to chief sanitation officer for utilizing such sanitation services. (CNS)
Two killed in Budgam road accident
5 Dariya News
Budgam
Two persons were killed and 48 including 12 females injured when a passenger bus they were travelling in met an accident in Central Kashmir’s Budgam district.Police sources told CNS that a passenger bus (JK026-1677) was on its way to Srinagar from Raithan when the driver lost control near Palpora village and the bus skidded off the road and fell into a gorge.Sources added that two passengers died on spot while 48 others were shifted to nearby hospital among which the condition of many are stated to be critical.The police identified the duo who died in the accident as Ghulam Hasan Bhat son of Ali Muhammad a resident of Gret Kalan and Manzoor Ahmed Sheikh son of Muhammad Sultan of Hasan Gund Budgam. (CNS)
Kathua militant attack rocks Legislative Assembly
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
The early morning militant attack in Kathua district rocked the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly on Friday with Opposition members seeking an explanation from the government on the incident.The issue was raised by National Conference MLA Devender Singh Rana who wanted to know about the steps being taken by the government to thwart the attack."The House wants to know how the militant attack took place, how the militants were able to launch this attack," Rana said.Deputy Chief Minister Dr Nirmal Singh informed the House that two or three heavily armed militants managed to enter the Rajpora Police station in Kathua and were holed up in the police station.
Police and CRPF have cordoned off the area and heavy firing is going on. A man has died and we are not sure if he is a civilian or a CRPF personnel. Ten people have been injured which include two policemen, seven CRPF men while one civilian and a policeman have been seriously injured," he said.Opposition National Conference and Congress termed the answer "unsatisfactory". "What are you saying that you don't know that the man who has died can be either a civilian or a CRPF personnel. The government should have the information," said Rana.
National Conference leader Ali Mohammed Sagar said, "People are dying and you have no information." While condemning the attack CPI (M) legislator M Y Tarigami said that the House needs to show a united face in condemning such tragedies and expressed sympathy with the family of those killed in the attack."It's a tragedy and it should be debated here. The House needs to know what steps the government will take and has taken. Let's not get divided on the tragedy. Such tragedies are unfortunate and we should speak in one voice and condemn it," Tarigami said. Raising hue and cry and demanding answer from the government about the militant attack, Congress legislators amid slogans staged a walk out. (CNS)
Vigilance raids JK Cements and SMHS Hospital
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
The sleuths of Vigilance Organization raided working site and head office of the J&K Cements Limited. In a statement to CNS, Vigilance Organization said that a team of the organization in presence of Executive Magistrate raided the J&K Cements Ltd site office located at Khrew and head office at Nawa-i-Subha Complex Srinagar.The spokesperson said that the organization had received that officers and officials of J&K Cements Ltd by way of favoritism have purchased imported coal of inferior quality from local dealers without following the laid down procedure for such purchase.
Samples of coal were obtained from working site at Khrew for chemical analysis by the experts and records were obtained for scrutiny for further course of action,” he said. Meanwhile, another Vigilance raid was conducted at Parking slots of OPD/Causality of SMHS Hospital Srinagar on the allegations that some employees of the Hospital in league with contractor have allotted the parking slots on very low rates and are charging Rs.20 per LMV as parking fee against Rs.10 as per tender notice.. “Some relied documents have been obtained for scrutiny and further necessary action under law has been taken up. (CNS)
‘Auto Rickshaws instructed to install Digital Fare Meter’
5 Dariya News
Jammu
Minister for Transport, Abdul Ghani Kohli while replying to a question by D. S. Oberoi in the Legislative Council today said that Motor Vehicles Department has already issued instructions regarding installation of functional electronic fare meters in respect of Auto rickshaws.The Minister said that the department has authorized Radio Taxi Service for operation within the Municipal limits of District Srinagar. These vehicles do posses company fitted Electronic Fare Meters and Operation of this service has proved public friendly. Similarly measures are being taken in District Jammu for the convenience of general public.The Minister said that moreover, all boards of inspections located in every district have been impressed upon not to issue fitness certificate to any auto-rickshaw unless fitted with functional electronic fare meter duly sealed and calibrated by the Weights and Measures/Legal Meteorology department.Dr. Shahnaz Ganai and Ghulam Qadir Pardesi also raised supplementary to the question (CNS)
Police re-arrests accused who fled from lock-up
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
Srinagar police achieved a major breakthrough when it succeeded in re-arresting one of the burglary accused who fled from police custody few days back.Srinagar police re-arrested Tariq Ahmad Mathanji resident of Pamposh Colony, Srinagar who was one of the two burglary accused who fled from the lock-up of Police Station M R Gunj. The duo was involved in burglary cases FIR No’s 70/2014 and 09/2015 under section 457,380 RPC of Police Station M.R Gunj. The hunt for the other accused who is still at large is going on.Police launched a vigorous searches after two burglary accused Tariq Ahmad Mathanji and Mohammad Ramzan Sheikh resident of Khudwani, Kulgam fled from the police lock-up at Police Station M R Gunj in the intervening night of 14/15-03-2015. Four officials of Police Station M.R Gunj including MHC and Sentry were suspended for negligence and carelessness. A case FIR No. 24/2015 under section 224 RPC was registered in this regard. (CNS)
Time not ‘proper’ for AFSPA revocation: Nirmal Singh
Says Pakistan trying to disrupt JK govt’s functioning
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Singh on Friday after the deadly militant attack in Jammu said time was not proper to discuss the revocation of AFSPA from Jammu and Kashmir. A civilian and three forces personnel were killed on Friday when two heavily-armed militants stormed a police station in Jammu and Kashmir before being gunned down.Singh, while talking to KNS said that as the government is mulling to make the system better in the state and to provide effective governance to the people, certain elements in Pakistan get disrupted and try to foil the peace efforts of the state dispensation.He maintained further that the issues could be resolved on table and by holding negotiations but it seems that Pakistan doesn’t want peace in the already terror ridden state of Jammu and Kashmir, “The government here is leaving no stone unturned to make establish peace and provide god governance in Jammu and Kashmir but always it is our neighbour which strives to disrupt the process,” Singh told KNS.
Over the revocation of AFSPA from the state, the deputy chief minister remarked that his party has a stated position over scraping any such law and that unfortunately the issue is being deeply and severely politicized than being discussed. “It is very unfortunate that AFSPA has now become a political issue and people are trying to score political goals by raising it. Our party has a stand that AFSPA could be revoked from any place in the state depending upon the security scenario.”“I don’t think we can discuss the revocation of AFSPA at present. It is not the proper time. You have seen how militants are trying to create havoc in the state and what we all should do is to commend our security forces who are rendering sacrifices of their precious lives for the state. How could one talk about AFSPA revocation at present?”
Singh said that BJP will strictly adhere to Common Minimum Program over the revocation of AFSPA and no one shall be allowed to make the issue any political in future. Reacting over the recent statement of the BJP national president Amit Shah, he said, “What Shah meant was the resolution passed in parliament in February 1994. BJP will work with the PDP on the grounds of CMP and will not compromise on national interests. If national interest in being compromised, how could we remain in government.”Over the speech made by the former chief minister and NC working president Omar Abdullah in legislative assembly on Thursday, Singh said, “Omar is treading the communal path and is mulling to fragment the state. What Omar said is hallow and naive. People know the true faces of such parties, if they mean what they say, they would have for sure won the state elections. But they lost and it vindicates that there claims are false and merit no concern.”
Ansari takes on SKIMS authorities
‘Where money collected from patients goes?’
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
Alleging that SKIMS authorities were rubbing salt over peoples wounds, PDP leader Abid Ansari Friday in a scathing attack against the hospital authorities said they even are reluctant in spending a single penny out of the plethora of revenue collected from patients for hospital’s welfare.Ansari told KNS that the hospital has a daily income of Rs 3 to 3.5 lakh, collected from patients across Kashmir valley. The revenue is collected in the form of admission tickets, fee for routine test reports, ECG, X ray and other related entities.He added that per month apart from the government funds, the SKIMS has revenue of rupees one crore, collected from poor patients which are admitted in hospital due to various ailments. “Per year, the revenue turns out to be a whooping amount of 12 crore rupees. Out of such a huge amount, not a single percent is spent on peoples' or hospital's welfare. There has been so far no serious audit done to make the hospital authorities accountable over such a burning issue,” he alleged.
Ansari who is MLA Zadibal said that so far the expenditure made out of these revenues has not been made public, leaving the people guessing and fuming over such a bizarre official apathy.The PDP leader maintained that so far the SKIMS authorities have spent the money on seminars ‘while leaving the maintenance of the hospital in lurch.’ “One could ask the hospital authorities that how could 12 crore rupees being spent on seminars only in which the lavish services are provided to doctors who read out their papers before other medicos.” Ansari said shabby condition of wards in the hospital and the pathetic treatment given to the patients at the causality block is enough to prick the balloon government claims.While demanding a thorough probe into the alleged embezzlements he said that the government has to take early action so that some relief is provided to the people.
Will new govt lift ban on local news channels?
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
As budget session in the Legislative Assembly is on, valley based local channels said they hope the ban imposed on telecast of news during Omar Abdullah’s regime will be lifted now.Interestingly, PDP while being in opposition had raised concern over the imposition of the ban on local channels by the then government, saying such remarks are condemnable and unfortunate.It was on 23 July 2012 when People's Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti condemned the restrictions on the local media's news broadcasting programmes, saying the ban is like "the curbs enforced under Martial law and emergency situations.""If broadcasting of news programmes in one part of the state is good, how can it be bad in the other part? The restriction on cable operators not only tantamount to the violation of democratic rights but it has rendered hundreds of youth associated with the business to the verge of unemployment," the PDP president had said.
Mehbooba at that time demanded that the government should immediately grant permission to the local cable operators to broadcast news programmes. Speaking to a delegation of cable operators of Kashmir at her residence, Mehbooba described their contribution "valuable".
"People of Kashmir cannot forget contribution of local cable operators while witnessing testing and hard times. Many people associated with this business lost their lives while performing their professional duties".Expressing disappointment over the government's ban, she said, "With local news channels off-the-air, the government has not only censored media but denied people their constitutional guarantees of freedom of expression."The PDP president said that instead of supporting and facilitating the cable network business for transparency and dissemination of information in the state, the government seems in denial mode."At the behest of some vested interests, these cable operators in Kashmir are being intimidated and harassed. Government offices should not be misused for practice of intimidation and censorship," alleged Mehbooba.
In 2009 after the Shopian alleged rape case, the Omar led coalition in the state imposed ban on the telecast of the current affairs program on local channels sitting the law and order issues. The government at that time maintained that the telecast of some private TV News Channels were found to violate the Cable Television Network (Regulation) Act, 1995, therefore, has been stopped for the time being. The government however, said that there is no ban on telecast of recreational or entertainment programmes by these channels.
However, the local channels contested the claims of the government; saying that how could the regional channels operate in Jammu region then if the rule is being violated by the Kashmir based TV News Channels. The owners said that the channels in Jammu function sans any hindrance while the whip is being cracked on Kashmir valley- leaving hundreds of youth, associated with channels jobless. The channel owners have one more reason to rejoice and stay hopeful as It was the PDP which at that time raised pitch against the ban.
JK unit of Samajwadi Party merges in NC
Omar terms PDP-BJP alliance example of ‘opportunism, deception’
5 Dariya News
Jammu
Working President National Conference (NC) Omar Abdullah Friday accused PDP and BJP of perpetrating fear and uncalled for apprehensions in the minds of people on the basis of religion during the recently held assembly elections to further their electoral prospects, describing it as part of pre-fixed arrangement.“In Kashmir Valley and the Muslim dominated areas of the Jammu region, especially the Chenab Valley, PDP generated an atmosphere of fear psychosis about BJP and RSS trampling and mutilating their distinct identity to garner maximum votes but later joined them as per prefixed game-plan,” Omar said while welcoming merger of the J&K Unit of Samajwadi Party, led by its President Sheikh Abdul Rehman, into the NC fold.He said that Mufti Mohammed Sayeed did not tell to his voters even once during his heightened but pretended anti-saffron campaigning that PDP was going to forge an alliance with BJP. “In fact, he portrayed both BJP and RSS as enemy number one of Muslims and subtly coerced them to vote for his party. After getting 28 seats he virtually threw his party into the BJP lap by dramatising and delaying the government formation,” Omar said.
The NC Working President took jibe on BJP, saying it bartered everything for the loaves of power. “At end of the day, what BJP has gained out of alliance with PDP and with which face they will be returning back to their constituencies after making tall promises and generating euphoria,” he asked.Omar alleged PDP and BJP have left the situation polarised in Jammu and Kashmir by causing enormous damage to its secular fabric. “In such a situation it is incumbent upon the secular forces to come together and meet the challenge posed by deceptive, hypocritical and opportunistic alliance,” he said and made a strong pitch in this regard and said National Conference will perform its designated role being the secular and forward looking party of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh.
Elaborating the need for secular forces coming together, the former CM referred to his party’s support to Congress nominee Ghulam Nabi Azad during the elections to Rajya Sabha and said it was a conscious decision to strengthen the forces believing in inclusiveness of the state. “The decision to support Congress was difficult in the backdrop of opposing each other in the elections but for the overall good of the state and in the larger interest of amity it was imperative,” he asserted.
Omar hoped that all like minded secular forces will join hands to foil the sinister machinations of PDP-BJP combine.Welcoming Sheikh Abdul Rehman and office bearers of his party at a specially held function at Sher-e-Kashmir Bhavan, he described him a veteran legislator and parliamentarian who has immensely contributed towards the development and prosperity of Jammu and Kashmir in different capacities.
Omar said Sheikh Abdul Rehman’s joining will give a new impetus to the party and strengthen it at grass roots level. He described the event as good omen for the secular forces across the State.In his address, Rehman said the general council of the State Unit of Samajwadi Party took a conscious decision to merge into NC keeping in view its secular credentials and service towards the people over decades.Rehman agreed with Omar about PDP-BJP playing a deceitful politics during the assembly elections and said that he was privy to at least dozen of instances where PDP had fielded candidates to cut Muslim votes for benefitting the BJP. Such a vicious politics, he said, was not conducive for Jammu and Kashmir.He said NC will have to play its crucial role in leading the secular forces to achieve the overall objective of steering the state to peace, progress and development.
Alongside Rehman those who joined NC included Sheikh Mohammed Shafi, State Secretary, Amrit Varsha, President State Women Wing of the party and Pushpa Dogra, General Secretary.Earlier, NC Provincial President Devender Singh Rana and other senior leaders of the party greeted and garlanded Rehman and his associates on their joining the party.Two time legislator and a former MP, Rehman had been the State President of Bharatiya Jana Sangh now the BJP.On this occasion senior NC leaders including Mushtaq Ahmed Bukhari, Rattan Lal Gupta, Th Kashmira Singh, Kamal Arora, MLA, Babu Rampal, Sheikh Bashir Ahmed, Brij Mohan Sharma, Jugal Mahajan, Gurdeep Singh Sasan, Dharamvir Singh Jamwal, Chander Mohan Sharma, T S Tony, Bimla Luthra, B L Bhat, Anil Dhar, Israr Khan, Sajjad Shaheen, Rashida Begum, Pradeep Bali, Rohit Bali, M L Munshi and other were present.
Chattisinghpora massacre anniversary
15 years have passed, accused neither booked nor punished: Mirwaiz
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
On the 15th anniversary of Chattisinghpora massacre, Hurriyat Conference (M) chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq Friday lamented that 15 years have passed yet the accused have neither been booked, prosecuted or punished.In a statement to KNS he regretted that the international human rights commission and organizations have failed to deliver justice into the massacres and fake encounter cases in the valley be it Chattisingpora, Parthribal, Hawal, Machil, Khanyar, Bijbehara and others as they have done in other places like Bosnia, Rwanda and East Timor.Addressing the Friday gathering at the historic Jamia Masjid, Mirwaiz said, “Since 1947, especially from 1990, the Indian dispensation has subjected Kashmiris to oppression and injustices at all levels. He said till the black laws like PSA, DAA, and AFSPA continue to be imposed in Kashmir, suppression and injustices will continue to happen.”
Terming Chattisinghpora massacre, during which 36 Kashmiri Sikhs were gunned down in cold blood, as the black day in the history of Kashmir, he said, “To add to our pain, five more innocent Kashmiris were murdered in cold blood in Pathribal by the armed forces and labelled as militants involved in the killing of Sikhs. However, widespread protests and agitation by the people exposed the ploy and brought the truth before the world.”“Unfortunately during these protests eight more innocent lives were lost at Brakpora and till date no impartial probe has been conducted into any of these gruesome killings to book the accused. Impunity from legal prosecution enjoyed by the armed forced through laws like AFPSA was responsible for such crimes and their perpetuation, as the trigger happy accused can go about scot free,” Mirwaiz said.
He said as an eye wash, some so called commissions were constituted to probe fake encounters in Kashmir since 1990, “but none of the accused have either been booked or punished.”Mirwaiz reiterated that unless justice is delivered and the accused brought to the book conducive atmosphere for a meaningful engagement between the three stakeholders to the Kashmir dispute cannot be created.“Today as the UN celebrates the International Day for Happiness, the people of Kashmiri long for their moment of happiness and peace as they continue to suffer and live under constant fear and stress,” he added.
Will defeat designs of ‘Akhand Bharat’: HCJK
‘We’ve to safeguard our faith and invigorate our movement’
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
Hurriyat Conference Jammu Kashmir (HCJK) leaders including Muslim League chairman Mushtaq-ul-Islam, Muslim Conference Chairman Shabir Ahmad Dar, Islamic Political Party – JK chairman Muhammad Yousuf Naqash and Mahaz-e-Azadi president Muhammad Iqbal Mir Friday alleged the political leadership and Hindu religious extremists of India are forcibly trying to impose their will upon the people – to acknowledge the supremacy of the majority community and assimilate their faith, aimed at accomplishing their dream of ‘Akhand Bharat”.In a joint statement to KNS they said, “As such, in Jammu and Kashmir we have to gear up our resistance movement on two fronts – to safeguard our faith and to invigorate our political struggle for freedom without any break. For this, we have to show doors to those trying to create confusion in our ranks and work in collaboration with the like-minded elements so as to ensure the victory of righteous in this battle.”“The Indian political leadership is issuing such statements in a well planned manner which obviously reflects their ill intentions. On the one hand, they are spreading communal tensions and on the other hand are intimidating the people of other faiths (for conversion). The freedom movement of Kashmir is passing through its harshest and challenging phase but our invaluable sacrifices will not let India succeed in its imperialistic designs not to speak of defeating our movement. Our just movement will continue despite all odds, to its destination,” they said.“The nation that has pledged to take the mission of its martyrs to its goal cannot be suppressed by such tactics of India provided we safeguard the mission of our martyrs and pursue their mission with full sincerity and dedication,” they added.
Malik to address public gathering in Kulgam on Sunday
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) chairman Mohammad Yasin Malik is scheduled to address a public gathering at Bolsoo Chowk Kulgam on Sunday.In a statement to KNS a spokesman of the JKLF said, “Public rally that will be organized under public contact program will be addressed by many speakers including Yasin sahib who will apprise people about the present political situation vis-à-vis freedom struggle.”Meanwhile, JKLF vice chairman Showkat Ahmad Bakhshi today addressed people at Bogam Kulgam, “JKLF deputy organizer Siraj Ud Din addressed people at Panew Kulgam, Zonal general secretary Sheikh Abdul Rashid addressed people at Bolsoo Kulgam while as district president Pulwama Javed Aahmad Butt addressed people at Sanigam Kulgam. Speakers asked people to remain steadfast and safeguard the sacred resistance movement with passion,” he said.
SMC launches sanitation drive in city hospitals, schools
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
To begin with a fresh summer spell and improvisation of sanitation in the city, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) Friday started an extensive sanitation drive at SHMS hospital.“This is the beginning of the drive which SMC shall be launching in all the hospitals and schools in the phased manner that falls within its jurisdiction in the coming week. The move aims at creating healthy environment around these places so that the people including students, faculty, patients and others while approaching these institutions shall feel comfortable and do not face any inconvenience,” SMC spokesperson Masrat Yosuf said in a statement to KNS.
“The drive which was personally monitored by Commissioner SMC was conducted both at micro and macro level within the indoors and outdoors of the hospital premises including the wards. Many wards could not be attended due to the occupancy of beds and shall be attended in a phased manner at the behest of hospital administration after their consultation,” she said.In addition to deployment of fifty sanitary workers, SMC also deputed phenyl sprinklers/ vehicles and fogging guns in the hospital. Huge quantity of garbage was lifted and the specific areas within the hospitals were properly fumigated with the disinfectants and other cleansing agents,” she added.Meanwhile, the authorities from various schools and hospitals can put forth a requisition to chief sanitation officer for utilizing such sanitation services.
Discussion in LC on governors’ address
5 Dariya News
Jammu
Resuming discussion on Governors’ address in the House today, Jahangir Hussain Mir said that peace is imperative for development. He said it is unfortunate that when the assembly session is going on, militants stormed the police station at Kathua.He said fighting against corruption, mentioned in the speech, is a good sign and he hoped for good results. He said need is to explore the mineral deposits, including Neelam of Poonch district. He said Dogra Rulers had declared Urdu language as official language but expressed concern over the treatment given to it. He pleaded for retrieving back the Waqf properties including land occupied by various agencies and suggested to put it in use for creation of jobs.
Qaisar Jamsheed Lone describes the address as empty and only a jugglery of words. He pleaded that the land under the illegal occupation of security forces should be given back to their owners.
Ghulam Nabi Monga said that there is no mention about Panchayats, 73rd and 74thamendments, power sector, medical colleges approved by UPA Government anywhere in the speech.Javed Ahmad, while taking part in the discussion said that many areas in his constituency are still backward despite 66 years of independence. He said construction of tunnel in Karnah is long pending demand of the area and hoped that present dispensation will do something concrete in this regard.
Dr Veeri said that there are certain points which need further clarification from the Government as to what is there clear stand. He said there is nothing in the document and the whole agenda of the alliance is to hoodwink the masses.Surinder Chaudhry while taking part in the discussion appreciated the Governor’s Address. He said we have been given the chance to represent people in this forum to highlight their problems and demands. He said peaceful approach of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed will take the State towards progress and prosperity for all the three regions, adding that Government will complete its full term successfully.
Yeshpal Sharma said that the farmers of the State are reeling under the economic pressure, while the State has suffered from corruption and blamed the previous regime for it. He said Poonch and Rajouri had witnessed good development in the previous regime of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed and hoped the same will be taken further.Yasir Reshi asked the opposition as to why it is so much worried about PDP-BJP alliance. He said present coalition has been framed by Mufti Mohammad Sayeed in the best interest of the people of the State. He said people rejected Congress and NC in recent elections and gave mandate to PDP and BJP.
Community engagement vital for sustainable tourism growth: Akhter
5 Dariya News
Jammu
There is a need to create awareness among the stakeholders that preserving the ecology and grandeur of our land is linked with our economic prosperity", this was stated by the Minister for Education, Nayeem Akhter after inaugurating the International Conference on Sustainable Destination Excellence: Rebuilding from Crisis and Disasters at Jammu University today.The two days International Conference has been organized by the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management University of Jammu, J&K.The Minister stressed that community participation can play a vital role in promoting tourist destinations in the state and main thrust should be on generating awareness among the stakeholders for ensuring minimum depletion of resources and maximum sustainable development.He also said that we are living in times where economy is the driving force and tourism is considered as a tool for inclusive growth of local communities, so it becomes imperative to link tourism with the prospect of economic growth of the communities and empowering them, the minister addedThe Minister said that it is need of the hour to make people understand that live tree is economically more beneficial to them than the timber they get out of it and ecological balance should not be disturbed for our vested interests.
He said that Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh is the most bio diverse basket that God has created and it is the most distinct tourism product in the world. The Minister maintained that the state is bestowed with the immense natural beauty where every village can become a tourism destination and for this we need to spread out of the traditional areas to attract the tourists for promoting rural tourism.
Assuring every possible help from the government in creating environmental consciousness among the people, the Minister suggested that the faculty should undertake case studies of certain tourist potential destinations and make environment assessment studies of those areas as disaster impacts are growing due to rapid growth and unsustainable development practices that tend to increase the exposure and vulnerabilities of communities and capital assets. He suggested the faculty members to form groups of volunteers and activists who can aware the people regarding the need to preserve and conserve our ecological heritage.Earlier Prof. R.D Sharma Vice Chancellor University of Jammu in his address said that this international conference has been organised for academicians and practitioners to exchange knowledge and experience on the way to handle the increasing risk of natural and manmade disasters. He also said that this conference will pave the way forward towards the future development of the subject and motivate young researchers to work in the area of Tourism Management.
A compendium on the proceedings of the conference was also released by the Minister and the other dignitaries present on the occasion.Among others those who were present in the conference and shared their views on the theme include Farooq Ahmad Shah MD JKTDC and Director Tourism Kashmir, Prof. P.S Manhas Director SHTM University of Jammu, Prof. Keshav Sharma Dean Faculty of Business Studies, Prof. Kaslom Kayat University of Utara, Malaysia, and Dr. Anil Gupta Conference secretary.
DC Sgr visits examination centres
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar accompanied by Director School Education, Chief Education Officer and other concerned officers today visited various examination centres in Srinagar where annual examination for class 12th is going on.
The Deputy Commissioner inspected examination centres set up in Burn Hall School, Sonwar, SP Higher Secondary School, Girls Higher Secondary School Kothibagh.The Deputy Commissioner interacted with students and asked them about facilities provided to them and enquired if the question paper was as per prescribed syllabus.
Media, intelligence agencies working on dictation of RSS, alleges Qasim
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
“India is ruled by intelligence agencies and its media which in turn are being controlled by the Brahmins who work on the dictations of RSS,” Dr Mohammad Qasim, Ameer Muslim Deeni Mahaz alleged in an emailed statement to KNS on Friday.
“The Indian media is feeding more than one billion people with false propaganda about Kashmir and resistance movement. Since Jammu Kashmir is not a legal state or part of India, it usurped this region in violations of the rules governing the partition of the Indian subcontinent. But the Indian media in a conscious effort presenting Kashmir as an issue of national importance for India on which the integrity of this country depends,” he claimed.
“The media is also hoodwinking the opinion of Indian masses about the pro-freedom leadership of Jammu Kashmir. They are presenting the pro freedom leadership as people who want to secede some legal part of India, which is far from truth. All the Indian political parties, bureaucracy us working under the influence of this propagandist media. On the other hand intelligence agencies are misleading the Indian politicians about the ground situation in Kashmir by presenting this issue as something relating to Jobs and economy,” Qasim claimed.“Media and intelligence agencies are working in tandem against Kashmir and Pakistan and therefore they are responsible for the hate found in Indian masses about Kashmir and Pakistan. These two agencies have become the biggest roadblock for the freedom of Jammu Kashmir.
If the media tells the truth about Kashmir and its history to masses, the rulers of India would have to become ready for providing right to self determination to the people of Jammu Kashmir, But for now the India rulers seem to be helpless in front of this media,” he claimed.“By boycotting the Kashmiri pro freedom leadership media is not allowing them to put the right facts before the Indian population therefore the pro freedom leadership should look for alternative methods to reach out to the Indian masses,” Qasim added.
BJP condemns Kathua attack
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has condemned the militant attack on police station at Kathua in which 3 paramilitary CRPF men, a civilian and two militants were killed.In a statement to KNS BJP spokesman Khalid Jehangir described it as an act of “senseless violence” and expressed solidarity with the family members of the CRPF men and a civilian who were killed in the attack.He wished speedy recovery to the people who sustained injuries in the attack.
“It’s unfortunate that people who support this gun culture can’t see the writing on the wall that people of JK are fed up with violence and have rejected violence,” Jehangir said.He said, “Militants by carrying out such acts want to make their presence felt. Their handlers need to be reminded that such acts cannot break the resolve of the security forces and people to wipe out terror from the soil of Jammu and Kashmir.”Jehangir lauded the security forces for neutralizing the militants and not allowing them to cause further damage.
Timelines advertised for Rural Dev works: Haq
Rs 168 Cr expended in Kulgam under MGNREGA
5 Dariya News
Jammu
Minister for Rural Development, Abdul Haq informed the House that government has clearly spelled out timelines for each officer involved in the execution of Rural Development works, setting a timeframe of 33 days to complete the entire process for finalising the project DPR and its clearance.The Minister said all works to be undertaken have to be completed within the new timeline framed by the department and the monitoring cell of the department has been strengthened to ensure that the order is followed in letter and spirit.
Replying to a question by M. Y. Tarigami, the Minister said that to ensure transparency in execution of the works in field, the general public and the Gram Sabha shall also be involved and entire process video graphed. He said each work would be completed in time, for which the necessary directions have been issued to the concerned officials.The Minister said that an amount of Rs 168 Cr has been utilized for execution of different rural works in Kulgam district during last three years under MGNREGA. He said during the period 33759 works were taken up and against which 22509 works have been completed in the district.
The Minister said that 105627 job cards were issued to the people of Kulgam district during last and current fiscals adding that during the period 2652979 mandays were generated in the district under various rural development schemes.
The Minister also informed the House that Rs 6.61 Cr has been expended on construction of 2294 dwelling units under IAY in the district and the construction of 1524 dwelling units has been completed since last two fiscals and current financial year so far. He said 5642 beneficiaries have been provided assistance under NBA/Swach Bharat Mission in the district during current financial year.
Legislative Assembly condemns attack on Rajbagh PS
5 Dariya News
Jammu
The Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Kavinder Gupta condemned the militants attack on the Rajbagh Police Station in Kathua district.On behalf of the entire House, the Speaker condemned the incident asking the government to take measures to strengthen the security network and check such attacks from happening. He said the sympathies of the entire House are with the families of those who were killed in the attack.Condemning the cowardly act, the Deputy Chief Minister, Dr. Nirmal Singh earlier gave details about the incident to the House and said that militanst attacked the Rajbagh police Station at 6:18 am after killing the Santry on duty, entered the Police Station. He said the whole area has been cordoned by the Police and CRPF Jawans and encounter is still raging on. He said as per the details available to him, 10 people including 2 police, 7 CRPF and 1 civilian were injured in the attack so far and they have been evacuated to Kathua hospital. He said since the area is still under security cordon and security forces are still engaged to flush out terrorists, it is not possible to present all the details at the moment.
Akhtar urges DCs to lead effort for cleansing examination system
“Anti-Copying Week” being observed
5 Dariya News
Jammu
Minister for Education, Naeem Akhtar, today urged all Deputy Commissioners and Education officers across the State to go cracking on copying during examinations in the Schools and cleanse the system of this menace.These directions were given via a video conference with the Deputy Commissioners of all the Districts, late last evening here, at the Civil Secretariat. The Minister asked the Deputy Commissioners to dedicate this week in helping conduct fair and clean examinations. Let this week be observed as “Anti-Copying Week” in view of ongoing Board Examinations across the State, Akhtar told DCs. The board examinations for Matriculation started from Thursday.Commissioner Secretary, School Education, Director School Education, Jammu and Secretary, Board of School Education, were also present during the video conference.The Minister said, this Government means business and would want all the DCs to utilise their resources, good will, network and administrative machinery to help conduct examinations free from copying throughout the State.
Urging the DCs Akhtar said “take this duty as a social responsibility upon you, and lead from the front, so that you are known in the society as somebody who helped getting rid of this menace”.The Minister said, his recent visit to some schools, has sent across a strong message, adding that the DCs should carry out surprise visits and random checks at the examination centres personally.With regard to the invigilating staff at the examination centres Akhtar said, only senior teachers should be involved in conduct of exams and wherever any malpractices is found should be immediately replaced and reported for appropriate action.
Akhtar said, any invigilating staff found involved in malpractice during the examination should be dealt with severity under law and a dossier of that staff member submitted to the administrative department for vigilance action and departmental inquiry. “Treat all those staff members who are responsible for supporting this menace as anti-social elements” the Minister asserted.Akhtar told DCs to take the exercise as a mission to cleanse the system, adding that it is their joint responsibility being part of the team along with him and as a team leader, he will stand by them in this drive.
Inqilabi condemns Swamy’s masjid remark
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
JK Mahaz-e-Azadi patron Azam Inqilabi while vehemently condemning and denouncing the pernicious, disparaging and blasphemous remarks of Subramaniam Swamy about masjids Friday said “Communalists, obscurantists, chauvinists and fascists of Indian civil society feel gratified and contended when they prey on the religious minorities of India.”
In a statement to KNS he said, “They are hell-bent on destroying the pluralistic system of India through venomous denigatory diatribe and tirade against Muslims, Christians and Sikhs. Every emancipated humanists of the global civil society feels aggrieved, agonized and traumatized due to the chauvinistic parochialism and regressive and aggressive attitude of the pseudo-nationalists of India.”
“Let all the obscurantists try to understand that for a Muslim a mosque is as sacred and sacrosanct as Ka’ba (in Makka, Saudi Arabia). An ideological Muslim is always ready to safeguard the sanctity of a mosque even at the cost of his life. Alas!, the akhoowat-based homogeneity and harmony in Muslim Ummah has become a casualty. The Muslim Ummah is riven, rippled and rent within due to sectarianism and group particularism. Monotheistic metaphysical bond has been eroded by conformist mindset,” he said.
“Eclecticism is an anathema to obscurantists. In such a situation, therefore, luminaries of OIC have to assert to rectify the wrong. They should launch a nonconformist edifying campaign against the trends of ideological scission and schism; they should checkmate the fissiparous disposition of the sectarian groups and tribes,” he added.
Inqilabi said OIC should assert as an ideological forum to eradicate and uproot hypocrisy; the forum should prioritize monotheistic Islamic fraternity and liberalism. “Don’t you realize that anti-Islamic forces take pride in demonizing and diabolizing the puritans of Islamic society. Bigotry of the powers in East and West is a problem in itself. Muslim scholars should knuckle down to the all-important task of comprehensive Dawah aimed at neutralizing the bias and bigotry of the powers in East and West,” he said.
“We felicitate our Pakistani brethren on the auspicious occasion of Pakistan Day, March 23-2015. Muslims of Kashmir identify themselves with Pakistan- the brotherly Muslim country which, as the committed proponent of Kashmiris’ cause of right to self-determination, faced innumerable hazards and hardships while taking on the common adversary India. We believe that Pakistan, as a nuclear power commanding respect in the Muslim Ummah, will eventually succeed in breaking the will of India to stay in Kashmir,” headed.
Police-Public meet in Srinagar
Fourth in series of interactions by South city police
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
Srinagar police continuing its efforts to strengthen good public relations organized another Police-Public meeting at Iqbal Park here today.In a statement to KNS a police spokesman said, “This was fourth meeting in series of interactions held by South city police this week. Today a police-public meeting was held in the sprawling Iqbal Park Srinagar that was chaired by SP South city Shridhar Patil and SDPO Imran Farooq. Large number of respectable from Allochi Bagh, Haft Chinar, Sheikh colony, Solina, besides, trade delegations from Goni Khan market, Sarai Bala , Sarai Payeen markets, Naaz market and Maharaja Bazaar market attended the meeting.”
“The participants highlighted many day to day issues pertaining to their respective area including Traffic regulation in view of Flyover construction, drug addiction, road side encroachments etc. Some of the issues were discussed and on the spot orders were issued to the concerned officials. Participants were assured that the matters concerning other departments will be taken up with the concerned authorities for immediate redressal,” he said and added the meetings were also attended by SHO Sher Garhi Mohammad Isaaq.
Resolve long pending Kashmir issue: Engineer Rashid
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
While participating in debate on Governors address, MLA Langate Engineer Rashid Friday said, “While militant and violent events in Kathua are generating a lot of hue and cry we need to remember all this urges to immediately resolve the long pending Kashmir issue.”“Kashmiris want AFSPA to be continued so that it is clear that Kashmir is solely run by AFSPA. If Kashmir is not disputed territory who sent Hurriyat leadership across in cross-LoC Bus, why talks were held with militants. The 24 seats reserved for Pakistan administered Kashmir in J&K Assembly clearly prove Kashmir is dispute,” he said.
“If Indian Parliament has resolutions on Kashmir, top leadership like Sushma Swaraj, Arun Jaitley pleaded to separatists in 2010 agitation why are we now shying away from realities,” he said.“If India is sincere in solving Kashmir issue or making it integral part than it has to either implement plebiscite or initiate meaningful tripartite talks. Unfortunately the tall leaders like Sheikh Abdullah, Bakshi Ghulam Mohammad and Sadiq have acted as agents of Delhi and sung on its tunes thus hurting the people of Kashmir,” he added.
Engineer Rashid made it clear that Jammu & Kashmir has its own National Flag and National anthem. “If Indian state really believes Afzal Guru was a terrorist why it is scared of giving back the mortal remains which clearly is tacit admission that Afzal Guru enjoys respect in Kashmir. One is bamboozled that if Kashmir is not political dispute why were three interlocutors appointed,” the MLA Langate said.Rashid made it clear that granting citizenship to West Pakistan refugees can never happen and would be implemented “over our dead bodies.”He said those talking about giving rights to Pak Administered Kashmir refugees should first implement resettlement bill and allow those thousands of Muslim families who were forced to migration in 1947.
CB Jammu registers FIR against a family involved in duping public
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
Crime Branch, Jammu has registered an FIR against Pinky Gupta alias Saroj Gupta W/o Shiv Pratap Gupta, Shiv Pratap Gupta S/o Sh. Tilak Raj Gupta and Bhasker Gupta S/o Shiv Pratap Gupta, all residents of Green Enclave, Near J&K Board of School Education, Rehari Colony, Jammu.In a statement a spokesperson of the CB said, “A complaint was received in Crime Branch, Jammu from Smt. Neelam Malhotra W/o Sh. K.K. Malhotra R/o 26-Patel Nagar Lane No. 1, Talab Tillo, Jammu and others, wherein the complainant had alleged that accused persons had allured them besides number of innocent persons on the pretext of providing handsome returns on the deposits and after taking the money from them and other persons have fled away after locking their residence and office thereby duping them of their hard earned money amounting to 45.00 lacs besides crores of rupees taken from other innocent persons.”
“During the course of enquiry it has been found that accused Pinky Gupta alias Saroj Gupta in connivance with her husband Shiv Pratap Gupta and son Bhasker Gupta used to make contacts with the people especially females through kitty parties and collect money on the pretext of providing huge interest and also to send their wards abroad for higher studies and in the process collected crores of rupees from innocent persons and issued advance cheques but after sometime she fled away alongwith her family and the cheques issued by her were dishonoured for lack of funds by the banks,” he said.
“Accordingly, case FIR No. 18/2015 under section 420, 406, 120-B RPC was registered in Crime Branch, Jammu and further investigation has been taken up,” he added.
RTI Day observed in Kashmir
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
J&K RTI movement observed RTI Day across the state on Friday with much fervor and passion.In a statement to KNS a spokesperson of the Movement said, “On its 6th anniversary large number of RTI Activists participated in a programme which was held at it's Headquarters in Srinagar. Apart from discussing success stories and changes RTI Act has brought in J & K, the programme was meant to create awareness among general public especially people from rural areas. Grass root level activists associated with the Movement discussed various challenges they face while filing the RTI applications and their solution.”“RTI is the best tool to fight the menace of corruption and people from all the walks of life must use it in a proper way to work for an open and transparent system in the state, said Dr Shaikh Ghulam Rasool, Chairman J&K RTI Movement and co-convener NCPRI. J&K RTI Movement will keep on working for awareness and education of the Act in rural Kashmir, under which village level committees have been setup in various areas. We are teaching the use of law in villages and it is our preference and priority,” he said.
“We want State government to implement section 23 which deals with awareness among people by the Government. So far government has failed in implementing Sec 4 and 23, which shows how much sincere the state government is in implementation of RTI law in the state, our State is most corrupt hence laws like RTI will help in eradicating this menace,” he added.During the protest demonstration which was held at press enclave, the activists called upon the government to gear up and make J & K a corruption free state.As RTI Act completed six years, Government has failed to implement Section 4 (a) proactive disclosure, which is considered to be the soul of RTI Act. Today we demand that this important section should be implemented in letter and spirit, said Dr. Sheikh Ghulam Rasool.
Farooq A.Kuthoo, Chief Spokesman J & K RTI Movement congratulated RTI activists for the great work they are doing by risking their precious lives. He was upset with the functioning of State Information Commission. “When our state is suffering worst regime of corruption and has been ranked among top most corrupt states by Transparency International, SIC should compel Government and Public authorities to implement Section 4 of the act which states proactive disclosure and Section 23 which deals with awareness about RTI act in the state. We suggest SIC to work within ambit of RTI Act and use discretion within its given mandate,” he said.
Aga Syed greets people on Nowruz
5 Dariya News
Srinagar
While greeting people on the occasion of Nowruz and New Solar year of Islamic Republic of Iran, President Anjuman-e-Sharie Shian Hujatul Islam Wal Muslimeen Aga Syed Hassan Almosavi Alsafvi prayed for the world peace and prosperity of mankind.“Nowruz-i-Aalam is primarily the arrival symbol of spring however the shias of world celebrate Nowruz with religious fervor for centuries in pursuance of guardianship of Ameer-ul-Momineen Imam Ali Ibn Abi Talib (Pbuh) and this day teaches us to connect with the guardianship,” he said in a statement to KNS.“Declaring revitalization of Wilayah as Islam’s excellency and solution of all problems of Muslim ummah President Sir said that Iranian nation with concept and motive of guardianship not only get rid of oppression and exploitation of others but Islamic system forced all anti Islam imperialist powers to kneel in front of them,” he said.