April 2024

Srinagar, April 30, 2024: In order to oversee the facilities being provided to the inmates Justice Tashi Rabstan, Judge, High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, (Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authority) today visited the SOS Children’s Village in Hyderpora, Srinagar. On his arrival, Justice Tashi, who was accompanied by Amit Kumar Gupta, Member Secretary J&K Legal Services Authority and Muzamil Hayat Kabli, Under Secretary, J&K Legal Services Authority was warmly received by Mr. Jawad Ahmed, Chairman, District Legal Services Authority along with Mr. Manzoor Ahmad, Mr. Jahangir Ahmad Bakshi, Secretary, DLSA Srinagar, Ms. Aqsa Hussain, Social Worker, and Ms. Affarmand, in-charge of SOS Children’s Village.
During his visit, Justice Tashi Rabstan took a comprehensive look at the facilities available for the children at the SOS Village. He interacted with the inmates, listened to their concerns, and assured them of continued support from the Legal Services Institutions.
Speaking on the occasion, Justice Tashi said, “It’s heartening to see the dedication and commitment of the staff here at SOS Children’s Village. We must collectively ensure that these children receive the love, care, and opportunities they deserve. I urge all NGOs and civil society members to come forward and play their part in shaping the future of our nation by supporting initiatives like these.”
Expressing his appreciation for the efforts of the Administration and staff at the SOS Children’s Village, Justice Tashi urged all NGOs and members of civil society to step forward and contribute to the future of these children, emphasizing their crucial role in nation-building.
As a gesture of goodwill, Justice Tashi Rabstan distributed sweets and fruits among the children, bringing smiles to their faces and spreading joy throughout the village.

April 30,SRINAGAR — Imran Sheikh, an Independent candidate from Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha constituency, has 20 cases, including one under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, registered against him over the past nine years.

This is the maximum number of cases against any of the 20 contestants from the constituency.

According to the affidavit filed by Sheikh along with his nomination papers, the cases are registered in nine different police stations in five districts of the union territory.

The first criminal case against Sheikh, who hails from Anantnag district, was registered in 2015 in Pampore police station of Pulwama district.

One of the criminal cases filed last year against the 37-year-old candidate include charges under section 11 (enticing a child for pornographic purposes or giving gratification there for) and section 12.

SRINAGAR: On the last date of the withdrawal of nomination papers for Lok Sabha Elections-2024 in Srinagar Lok Sabha seat, five Candidates withdrew their Candidature in the Office of Returning Officer Srinagar Parliamentary Constituency here on Monday.

The Returning Officer (RO) for Srinagar Parliamentary Constituency, Dr Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat informed that five candidates withdrew their Nominations on the last date of withdrawal (Monday- 29 April, 2024) out of the total 29 valid Nominations.

He added that only 24 validly Nominated Candidates now remain in fray for the Srinagar Lok Sabha Seat.

Those who remain in fray include Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi from Jammu Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), Waheed ur Rehman Para from Jammu and Kashmir People’s Democratic Party, Mohammad Ashraf Mir from J&K Apni Party, Amir Ahmad Bhat from Democratic Progressive Azad Party, Younis Ahmad Mir from Bharat Jodo Party, Rubina Akhtar from National LokTantrik Party, Hakikat Singh from National Panthers Party (Bhim) and Mohammad Yousuf Bhat from Gana Suraksha Party.

Similarly, the independent candidates who remain in the fray for the Lok Sabha Constituency include Sheeban Ashahi, Nissar Ahmad Ahangar, Mirza Sajad Hussain Beigh, Jibran Dar, Shahnaz Hussain Shah, Amin Dar, Riyaz Ahmad Bhat, Fayaz Ahmad Bhat, Sayim Mustafa, Waseem Hassan Sheikh, Ghulam Mohammad Wani, Wahida Tabasum, Dr. Qazi Ashraf, Javaid Ahmad Wani, Jehangir Ahmad Sheikh and Sajad Ahmad Dar.

It is worth mentioning here that a total of 39 candidates had filed their nomination papers before the Returning Officer 02-Srinagar Parliamentary Constituency till last date of filing the Nominations (Thursday-25 April 2024), out of them, the Nomination papers of 10 (Ten) Candidates were rejected during Scrutiny held on Friday (April 26, 2024). And now with the withdrawal of five candidates, 24 candidates are now in fray.

SRINAGAR: National Conference President Farooq Abdullah on Monday urged people to remain cautious of the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) when they come to vote on polling day.

According to him, there is a risk that votes intended for one party may be registered for another.

Addressing a rally here, the NC patriarch recounted how a friend from Karnataka shared a video showing his experience inside a polling booth. Even while pressing the EVM, there was neither a response nor any light emanating from the machine.

It is very much possible that the officers would use those votes for some other party. Therefore, I urge you all to stay cautious and not to leave the polling booth before properly verifying whether the machine is in working condition and whether the green light is illuminated on its top. If you do not see any light, ask the polling staff to rectify it. Do not leave the booth until you hear the sound and see the light. We must remain vigilant. The present time is one of tough ordeals,” Farooq said.

The NC President further alleged that democratic institutions are being constantly eroded and that Election Commission members are now being handpicked by the government itself.

“Earlier, the Prime Minister, Chief Justice of India, and leader of the Opposition selected ECI members. Now the Chief Justice has been replaced by a minister of the Modi cabinet. Imagine what will happen if they (NDA) manage to secure a brute majority,” Farooq said in his address.

He alleged that surveys are being conducted in Kashmir, asking for details of households and proof of residency. “The second phase will require us to present proof that we belong here. To them, we are all infiltrators. Therefore, people must vote in these elections to foil such ploys,” Farooq said.(KNO)

Srinagar, Apr 30: The Jammu and Kashmir Power Transmission Corporation Limited (JKPTCL) Monday late evening said that the significant damage to transmission towers along peer top has forced them to rely on only one connection to the northern grid.

The corporation also said that if the last remaining connectivity got disrupted, the situation could escalate and could affect the entire valley.

Taking to the microblogging site X, JKPTCL said, “Please be informed that due to unprecedented rainfall, there has been significant damage to transmission towers along Peer Top. We are currently relying on only one connection to the Northern Grid. (SIC)

JKPTCL further said, “It’s imperative that all essential services have backup plans in place to address any potential issues arising from this situation, for the public’s well-being.” (SIC)

The power transmission corporation however said that there was no need for panic at the moment. “However, if our last remaining connectivity is disrupted, which is unlikely but not impossible, the situation could escalate, affecting not just a particular district but the entire valley.”

JK Revolution, 29 April:- The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Kashmir (CCIK) organized a transformative event, Launchpad Kashmir Startup Surge, at Countryside Resort from April 26 to April 28. The event aimed to provide a platform for budding entrepreneurs to showcase their innovations and ideas.

A total of 47 newly established female entrepreneurs and 3 male entrepreneurs participated in the program. They were given stalls to exhibit their products and services, fostering networking and business opportunities. CCIK, through this initiative, reaffirmed its commitment to supporting and nurturing emerging talents in the region.

During the event, CCIK assured the participants of ongoing support and opportunities to grow their businesses. The organization emphasized its dedication to empowering these entrepreneurs and reiterated its commitment to their success.

The Launchpad Kashmir Startup Surge witnessed the successful launch and sale of various products by the participating entrepreneurs, highlighting their creativity and potential for economic contribution.

Looking ahead, President CCIK Tariq Ghani announced plans to organize more such events free of cost in the coming months, further enhancing the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Kashmir.

The event took place at Countryside Resort and was sponsored by Zool Productions and Red FM.(JK Revolution)

SRINAGAR, APRIL 29: In view of the incessant heavy rainfall, Divisional Commissioner (Div Com) Kashmir, Vijay Kumar Bidhuri today convened a high level meeting to assess the overall situation and rescue operations.

The meeting was attended by DIG Police, Kashmir; Deputy Commissioners; Chief Engineer Irrigation & Flood Control; Chief Engineer PWD; Chief Engineer PDD; CE, J&K ERA; Director IMD; officers of NDRF, SDRF, NHIDCL, PHE, Health, Civil Defense, NHDCL,NHAI, SMC and other concerned departments.

Addressing the meeting, Div Com directed round the clock functioning of Control Rooms in every district to monitor the flood situation during night, and deputation of senior officers and field staff for restoration of essential services besides responding to any exigency.

He also directed HoDs to depute one senior officer each at Integrated Command & Control Centre, HMT for close synergy and coordination to monitor the situation besides dissemination of correct, factual and timely information.

The Div Com directed DCs to work on a need based evacuation plan of people from low lying areas in case of inundation by flood in their respective districts. He also directed for identification and activation of safe shelter centres to house the affected families.

He also directed them to review updation of IRDN with inventory and resources to make information available to stakeholders and agencies. He said resources shall be mobilized promptly, smoothly and with certainty to ensure execution of plans.

He instructed DCs to issue advisory regarding the condition of roads in their district to keep the public informed so that the public doesn’t get stranded.

Meanwhile, as precautionary measure, Div Com directed closure of Schools on Tuesday in all districts of Kashmir Division.

The meeting was informed by Director IMD that the weather situation will improve from mid-night today while CE I&FC informed that water level in Jhelum is below danger level.

SRINAGAR, APRIL 29: On the last date of the withdrawal of nomination papers for Lok Sabha Elections-2024 in 02-Srinagar Lok Sabha seat, five (05) Candidates withdrew their Candidature in the Office of Returning Officer 02-Srinagar Parliamentary Constituency here on Monday.

The Returning Officer (RO) for 02-Srinagar Parliamentary Constituency, Dr. Bilal Mohi-Ud-Din Bhat informed that five (05) candidates withdrew their Nominations on the last date of withdrawal (Monday- 29 April, 2024) out of the total 29 valid Nominations. He added that only 24 validly Nominated Candidates now remain in fray for the Srinagar Lok Sabha Seat.

Those who remain in fray include Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi from Jammu Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), Waheed ur Rehman Para from Jammu and Kashmir People’s Democratic Party, Mohammad Ashraf Mir from J&K Apni Party, Amir Ahmad Bhat from Democratic Progressive Azad Party, Younis Ahmad Mir from Bharat Jodo Party, Rubina Akhtar from National LokTantrik Party, Hakikat Singh from National Panthers Party (Bhim) and Mohammad Yousuf Bhat from Gana Suraksha Party.

Similarly, the independent candidates who remain in the fray for the Lok Sabha Constituency include Sheeban Ashahi, Nissar Ahmad Ahangar, Mirza Sajad Hussain Beigh, Jibran Dar, Shahnaz Hussain Shah, Amin Dar, Riyaz Ahmad Bhat, Fayaz Ahmad Bhat, Sayim Mustafa, Waseem Hassan Sheikh, Ghulam Mohammad Wani, Wahida Tabasum, Dr. Qazi Ashraf, Javaid Ahmad Wani, Jehangir Ahmad Sheikh and Sajad Ahmad Dar.

It is worth mentioning here that a total of 39 candidates had filed their nomination papers before the Returning Officer 02-Srinagar Parliamentary Constituency till last date of filing the Nominations (Thursday-25 April 2024), out of them, the Nomination papers of 10 (Ten) Candidates were rejected during Scrutiny held on Friday (April 26, 2024). And now with the withdrawal of five candidates, 24 candidates are now in fray.

In the ongoing Lok Sabha elections across the country, including Kashmir, millions of eligible voters are exercising their democratic right to vote. With approximately 969 million registered voters within the nation and an additional 13.4 million Indian expatriates participating in 543 parliamentary constituencies, this election represents a monumental moment for democracy, where the voices of millions will shape the future governance of the nation.

As citizens, we are not just participants but architects of our nation’s destiny. The ongoing elections, whether in Kashmir or across the entire nation, underscore the pivotal role each of us plays in shaping the course of our society. With millions of eligible voters exercising their franchise, we are not merely selecting representatives; we are charting the path towards a stronger, more inclusive democracy.

In understanding the significance of our vote, we must recognize its transformative potential. Our vote is not merely a mark on a ballot paper; it is a declaration of our aspirations, values, and vision for the future. It is a solemn responsibility bestowed upon us to safeguard the principles of democracy and ensure that our voices are heard loud and clear.

The importance of voting extends beyond the immediate electoral process; it resonates deeply with our future generations. By participating in elections, we set an example for our children and grandchildren, teaching them the value of civic duty and active citizenship. We instill in them the belief that their voices matter and that they have the power to effect change.

Moreover, our vote serves as a bulwark against injustice and inequality. It is a tool through which we can hold our leaders accountable and demand transparency, accountability, and good governance. By casting our vote, we lend our support to those who champion the cause of justice, equality, and human rights.

It is incumbent upon us to treat our vote with the reverence it deserves. We must carefully consider the candidates and their policies, ensuring that we cast our vote for individuals who are committed to serving the people and advancing the common good. We must not be swayed by narrow considerations of caste, creed, color, or religion but rather focus on electing leaders who embody integrity, competence, and empathy.

Our vote is not just a means to an end; it is a sacred trust that we must uphold with utmost sincerity. We must not squander this precious right but rather exercise it judiciously, knowing that the future of our nation and region hangs in the balance. Let us not look back with regret but forward with hope, knowing that our vote has the power to shape a better tomorrow.

On election day, let us set aside all other concerns and prioritize our civic duty. Let us stand in line, shoulder to shoulder, as equal citizens, and cast our vote for the candidate who embodies our hopes and aspirations. Let us seize this opportunity to build a brighter future for ourselves, our children, and generations yet unborn.

The importance of our vote cannot be overstated. It is the cornerstone of democracy, the foundation upon which our nation and region are built. By exercising our franchise responsibly, we can pave the way for a more just, equitable, and prosperous society. So let us not take this privilege for granted but rather embrace it wholeheartedly, knowing that our vote is our voice, and our voice is our power.It is crucial to understand the significance of our vote, not just for the current state of affairs but also for the future trajectory of our nation and region. Our vote is not merely a mark on a ballot; it is a representation of our aspirations for the days to come. It serves as a beacon of hope, a voice of change, and a pledge for a better tomorrow.

Each vote cast is a testament to our commitment to democracy and good governance. It is a declaration of our trust in the elected representatives to steer the nation towards progress and prosperity. Our vote holds the power to shape policies, influence decisions, and hold leaders accountable for their actions.

Moreover, our vote is a lifeline for the marginalized and voiceless in society. It provides a platform for the oppressed to be heard, the downtrodden to be uplifted, and the disenfranchised to find representation. By casting our votes thoughtfully, we can ensure that the concerns of all segments of society are addressed, and no one is left behind.

It is imperative that we recognize the importance of our vote and exercise it responsibly. We must refrain from squandering this precious right by casting it frivolously or under duress. Instead, we should bestow our vote with the dignity it deserves, knowing that the individual we elect today will shape the destiny of our nation tomorrow.

Let us not regret the choices we make at the ballot box but rather take pride in them. Let us honor our vote by holding those we elect accountable and demanding transparency, accountability, and integrity in governance. Let us transcend barriers of caste, creed, color, and religion and vote for individuals who embody the values of inclusivity, equality, and justice.

Through our vote, we have the power to shape the future of our nation and region. We can chart a course towards progress, development, and peace. We can pave the way for a brighter tomorrow for ourselves and future generations.

However, this vision can only be realized if we align our actions today with the principles of loyalty and nation-building. We must vote with a sense of duty, commitment, and foresight, knowing that our choices today will determine the course of history tomorrow.

Therefore, on the day of the election, let us set aside all other tasks and prioritize casting our vote. Let us seize this opportunity to make our voices heard and our aspirations known. Let us participate actively in the democratic process and shape the destiny of our nation and region for the better.

In conclusion, the importance of our vote cannot be overstated. It is not just a civic duty but a moral imperative. By exercising our right to vote judiciously, we can contribute to the establishment of good governance, uphold democratic principles, and build a brighter future for ourselves and generations to come. So, let us pledge to vote wisely, vote responsibly, and vote for a better tomorrow.

Article by Fayaz Ahmad Wani