Jammu & Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir, BJP chief Ravinder Raina will miss voting for his party in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections as the party has not fielded any candidate from his hometown, which falls in the Anantnag-Rajouri Parliamentary constituency.

The reshaped Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha seat will go to polls on May 7 in the third phase of general elections in Jammu and Kashmir. The BJP has also not put up any candidate from Srinagar and Baramulla constituencies, where polling will be held on May 13 and May 20 respectively. Facing criticism over not fielding candidates on the three Lok Sabha seats in Kashmir, Raina said decisions are made to achieve a goal and the BJP is supporting parties.

“We were desirous of fighting the elections from all the three Lok Sabha seats in Kashmir on our own strength. But sometimes different decisions are made to achieve a goal by setting aside personal interests,” Daily Excelsior Raina quoted as saying.

“We are supporting those parties which are patriotic, working for betterment of Kashmir, strengthening peace and brotherhood and are eager to serve the society,” Raina had said. He said they will soon meet BJP national president J P Nadda and other Central leaders to discuss the strategy and will reveal the names of such parties or candidates who the party workers and supporters can support and vote for.

In the absence of the party candidate, Raina who hails from Nowshera area of Rajouri, will exercise his democratic right in favour of a non-BJP candidate in accordance with the party’s strategy. PDP president and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference leader Mian Altaf are in direct contest from the constituency.

Prominent among 19 candidates in the fray include Mohammad Saleem Parray of Democratic Progressive Azad Party (DPAP) and JK Apni Party leader Zafar Iqbal Khan Manhas.

Srinagar, April 21: People’s Democratic Party here on Sunday organized several public meetings in different areas of Srinagar District.

The meetings were held in Buzuhama, Habak, and other areas of Hazratbal Constituency. PDP Youth President and candidate for the Srinagar-Pulwama parliamentary constituency, Waheed ur Rehman Parra addressed the public meetings. He was accompanied by senior leader and former MLA Asiya Naqash, along with other party functionaries.

In his address, Waheed ur Rehman Parra said that people are silent, but they are not happy with the way New Delhi is dealing with and looking at Kashmir. There is extreme silence among people, and the future of young and next generation is uncertain. He emphasized that the youth of Srinagar need to set a trend by voting in large numbers this time, which will spread across the valley.

He urged the youngsters to exercise their voting rights to bring about positive change in the Valley. He stressed the importance of seizing the opportunity to shape their futures, cautioning against the repercussions of abstaining from the electoral process. He emphasized that boycotting the elections could exacerbate the challenges faced by the Kashmiri populace, particularly the educated yet unemployed youth.

J&K Peoples Conference President Sajad Lone today said that he stands proud among the 99% of Kashmiris who have borne the brunt of NC’s misrule rather than aligning with the 1% who perpetrated atrocities.

Lone made these remarks while addressing a mammoth gathering of dedicated workers in Nihalpora, Pattan which was organised by PC Senior General Secretary Imran Reza Ansari.

The gathering, attended by thousands of dedicated workers, witnessed a significant moment as senior political leader Riyaz Ahmad Sheikh from Singpora, Pattan and prominent social activist Irshad Pandit from Sariwarpora, officially embraced the party, fortifying its grassroots support.

In his address to the assembled gathering, Lone asserted that the overwhelming majority, comprising 99% of Kashmiris, have been the victims of brutality, subjected to imprisonment, torture, unjust detentions under the PSA, and even extrajudicial executions at the hands of a powerful 1% minority of the National Conference.

While denouncing the NC’s decades-long reign of oppression, he said that, “They have contributed to creating martyrs’ graveyards in almost every village and town. They have been at the helm of regimes which killed thousands of innocent Kashmiris, implemented oppressive laws such as the POTA and PSA, along with the law for mandatory police verifications aimed at pushing the people to the wall. Yet, shamelessly, NC leaders are now seeking to portray this majority of Victims as agents of Delhi.”

Making a scathing critique of the National Conference’s tenure, Lone questioned their accountability for the hardships endured by the local populace, despite their historical dominance in North Kashmir, clinching victory in LS elections nine out of ten times.

“They must answer for their 50-year rule post-1975, characterized by developmental stagnation, oppression of Kashmiris, incarcerations and their shameful complicity during the abrogation of Article-370. If they can address these issues convincingly, we shall extend our sincerest apologies,” he declared.

Lone further lambasted Omar Abdullah’s attempts to portray himself as a paragon of virtue, recalling his tacit endorsement of human rights violations during his tenure under the Vajpayee government, amidst growing unrest in Kashmir.

“The same government expressed its desire to abolish Article 370, on record, if it had enough parliamentary support. It was the same dispensation that discarded the proposal for autonomy in J&K but Mr. Omar still remained clung to power. You lack moral authority to label the majority of the local populace, given your lack of ideological disagreement with the BJP. It’s puzzling how you can even show your face here,” he remarked.

Lone also underscored the upcoming Lok Sabha elections as pivotal, following the watershed events of 2019. He earnestly implored the people to rally behind PC, amplifying their long-muted voices to the highest legislative echelons, the Parliament.

“I pledge to represent the people’s grievances and aspirations in the Parliament with unwavering courage and conviction,” he asserted.

Srinagar, Apr 20: In the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections in Jammu & Kashmir, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Youth President candidate from Srinagar-Pulwama parliamentary constituency, Waheed-ur-Rehman Parra, passionately urged the youngsters to exercise their voting rights to bring about positive change in the Valley.

Addressing the youth in Downtown, Interior Dal and other areas of Srinagar district, Parra stressed the importance of seizing the opportunity to shape their futures, cautioning against the repercussions of abstaining from the electoral process. He emphasized that boycotting the elections could exacerbate the challenges faced by the Kashmiri populace, particularly the educated yet unemployed youth.

It is the time when the youngsters need a helping hand to showcase their skills or witness scam-free recruitment exams. Such a situation can only be witnessed when the youngsters turn up at the polling booths and elect their representatives, whom they aspire to see as voices in the parliament,” he asserted.

He reiterated, “Our youth deserve to be surrounded by their families and friends, fostering a sense of belonging and support, rather than being subjected to the harsh realities of incarceration and solitary confinement.” He said that PDP is committed to fostering genuine connections with the residents of Srinagar, especially the youth, ensuring that their concerns are heard and their needs are met. He emphasized, “We will make Srinagar stronger, together, by working hand in hand to address these challenges and build a brighter future for all.”

He assured to redress all the concerns if voted to power.

Parra was accompanied by Senior Party Leader & Ex MLA Asiya Naqash, State Secretary Abdul Hameed Kosheen, District President Abdul Qayoom and other party functionaries.

(KDC)

JK Revolution, 20 Apr:- Today, the Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas and Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri embarked on a significant visit to Kashmir, underscoring key concerns and advocating for inclusive development in the region. During the visit, President Tariq Ghani Chamber of Commerce and Industry Kashmir (CCIK) raised pressing questions regarding power curtailment’s adverse impacts on the business and education sectors, shedding light on its critical nature as a major issue.

Of notable concern was the exclusion of Shehr e Khaas from the smart city development initiative, leading to challenges and financial losses within the traders’ fraternity. This exclusion not only affects businesses but also hampers the overall economic growth and vitality of the region.

In response to these concerns, the Union Minister commended CCIK for its advocacy and invited its representatives to New Delhi for comprehensive discussions on a range of issues, including traffic management, infrastructure development, power curtailment, and more. The Minister emphasized the need for a collaborative approach to address these challenges effectively.

Furthermore, CCIK reiterated the importance of integrating Kashmir into national development programs like Viksit Bharat, emphasizing that inclusive development should encompass all regions, especially those with unique challenges and potential for growth. They emphasized that Kashmir’s progress must align with and benefit from such nationwide initiatives.

The visit concluded with a renewed commitment from both parties to work towards overcoming obstacles and fostering sustainable growth and prosperity in Kashmir. (JK Revolution)

Sopore, Mar 21 (KS) : The young Sopore athlete, who has already made district Baramulla proud by winning gold medals at the international and national levels, has been appointed as the District Secretary of the Taekwondo Association Kashmir Division.

According to an order, a copy of which is with News Agency Kashmir Scroll, The Taekwondo Association of Jammu and Kashmir (TAJK) is pleased to appoint you as the designated authority for spreading Taekwondo in the entire Baramulla district of the union territory of J&K.

The members have been assigned their respective roles as follows:

President – Moin Hameed

District Secretary – Adil Bahadur

Treasurer – Hafiz Bin Hameed.

We trust that you will conduct yourself in accordance with the rules and regulations of the India Taekwondo (IT).

The affiliation is valid until March 31, 2025. This provisional status may be extended based on your performance and adherence to the rules and regulations governing India Taekwondo (IT).

The association wishes you the best of luck in your responsibilities, the order copy reads.

Speaking to the News Agency Kashmir Scroll, Adil Bahdur said that it’s a proud moment for him to serve his district and help budding and future stars of his district.

Adil said that he would be happy to help and guide athletes for their bright and successful careers.

He assured athletes in Baramulla district that they do not need to worry now, as he will provide them with every possible support for their successful and bright future.

In a message to the youth, Adil said that it’s time to come forward and make a successful career, and more importantly, to stay away from illegal activities and other social evils.

Adil emphasized the importance of parents taking care of their children and channelizing them towards sports activities, especially in light of the increase in drug menace.

Pertinently, Adil has represented Kashmir at the international and national levels, where he has won gold medals in Taekwondo.

Adil is a certificate holder and has always been actively engaging youth in sports-related activities.(KS)

Srinagar, March 21: The Jammu and Kashmir Police have registered a formal First Information Report (FIR) against a Facebook page admin, Mudasir Bashir Bhat, alias Mudasir Aziz.

According to an instant FIR copy one Mudasir Bashir Bhat, son of Bashir Ahmad Bhat, a resident of Khayam, Srinagar, has been booked vide FIR no. 8/2024 under sections 341 (Wrongful Restraint), 354 (Sexual Assault), 499 (Defamation), and section 506 (Criminal Intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

According to the FIR copy, the Facebook page admin was booked by Police station Rainawari after receiving a written complaint by a lady (name withheld), who runs an NGO by the name ‘Smile Foundation’.

Meanwhile, investigations have been set into motion and further details are awaited. (KDC

Anantnag Mar 19 : The District Election Officer (DEO) Anantnag, SF. Hamid today convened meetings with representatives from various political parties and members of the media. The meeting was attended by the Senior Superintendent of Police Anantnag, ADC Anantnag, Deputy DEO and DIO. The primary objective of these meetings was to provide training and guidance to stakeholders on the principles outlined in the Model Code of Conduct (MCC). The DEO emphasised the paramount importance of strict adherence to the MCC by all individuals involved in the electoral process.

Political parties were urged to demonstrate unwavering commitment to ethical campaigning practices, avoiding any actions that could potentially compromise the integrity of the electoral system. Recognising the pivotal role of the media in ensuring free and fair elections, SF.

Hamid said that fair and unbiased reporting, free from partisan influence is essential to preventing the menace of fake news and also in ensuring accurate information reaches the electorate. He also announced the establishment of the Media Centre and the Media Certification and Monitoring Committees in Anantnag. Notably, the Anantnag parliamentary constituency seat shall go for polls on 07th May in the third phase of the upcoming General Elections.

SRINAGAR: BJP Media Relations Department under the stewardship of Chief Spokesperson and Media Relationship Department Incharge, Sunil Sethi, along with Sahil Aggarwal, Altaf Thakur, and Pramokh Seth convened a crucial meeting at the party headquarters here today.

The meeting was aimed at strategizing and charting out the blueprint for an effective media campaign for the upcoming Parliamentary Election 2024. The gathering was attended by key members of the media relations department, including the Co-incharge, along with various other distinguished party officials. The discussions held during the meeting were extensive and focused on devising comprehensive strategies to effectively communicate the party’s vision, achievements, and future plans to the electorate of Jammu and Kashmir.

Chief Spokesperson Sunil Sethi emphasized the importance of leveraging various media platforms to disseminate the party’s message effectively. He stressed the need for a proactive approach in engaging with the media to ensure that the BJP’s narrative reaches every corner of the region.

Several innovative ideas were proposed during the meeting, including the utilization of social media, print media, electronic media, and interactive sessions with journalists to amplify the party’s outreach efforts. Additionally, the importance of highlighting the developmental initiatives undertaken by the BJP-led government at both the central and state levels was underscored.

Furthermore, the meeting saw a detailed discussion on tailoring the media campaign to address the specific concerns and aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

The aim is to foster a deeper connection with the electorate by addressing their issues and showcasing the BJP’s commitment to their welfare.

In his closing remarks, Sunil Sethi expressed confidence in the capabilities of the media relations team and urged them to work cohesively towards achieving the shared objective of ensuring a resounding victory for the BJP in the upcoming Parliamentary Election.

SRINAGAR: Extending a major relief to the affected families, J&K Bank facilitated the swift settlement of MetLoan & Life Suraksha (MLLS) insurance claims of its deceased borrowers who had their accounts in different branches of the Bank’s Udhampur Zone. The claims worth Rs 2.34 Crores have been paid to 48 families freeing them from the severe financial crisis.

The Bank’s Zonal Head (Udhampur) Rajesh Gupta and Zonal Head (Credit Life – PNB MetLife) Irfan Ali Zargar displayed the symbolic cheque of Rs 2.34 Cr – an amount that was handed over to the nominees/legal heirs of the deceased customers – in presence of Zonal Insurance Coordinator Raghuveer Singh, Branch Heads and other officials of the Bank and PNB MetLife including Regional Manager Ravi Sharma.

Expressing satisfaction on the occasion, the claimants thanked the Bank and its Insurance partner MetLife saying, “We are thankful to the Bank for covering these loans under insurance and appreciate their support in timely settlement of the claims. We are also grateful to PNB MetLife for coming to our rescue and relieving us from the difficult burden of growing liabilities.”

Speaking on the occasion, both the officials from the Bank and the insurance company highlighted the significance of getting the loans insured. “With a single-premium option alongside the bank funding available for the customers, we can safeguard the families of borrowers and the interests of our institution in case of such unforeseen eventualities”, said Zonal Head (Udhampur) adding, “Let’s always advise the borrowers to get their loans insured for the future wellbeing of their own families.”

While reminding the customers of the goodwill of J&K Bank, Zonal Head (Credit Life – PNB MetLife) said that the Bank always advises its clients to get their loans insured so that their loved ones are taken care of in case of such unseen contingencies. “We may not be able to compensate the emotional loss of life but with good insurance products we can always support the bereaved families by relieving them of their financial burden”, he added.