National

In accordance with the J&K Legal Service Authority calendar for the year 2024, District Legal Services Authority Srinagar organized a Special Lok Adalat aimed at the amicable settlement of Bank Recovery cases and was held at District Court Complex Mominabad, Srinagar, under the able guidance of Hon’ble Mr. Justice Tashi Rabstan, Chief Justice (Acting) High Court of J&K and Ladakh. The Special Lok Adalat was conducted under the supervision of Mr. Jawad Ahmed, Chairman of the District Legal Services Authority (Pr. District & Sessions Judge) Srinagar.
The Lok Adalat serves as a transformative mechanism for resolving disputes by offering a platform for parties to settle their differences amicably, Lok Adalats play a crucial role in promoting social harmony and fostering a more just and equitable society.
One bench was constituted for the said Lok-Adalat for the amicable settlement of Bank Recovery Cases, which was presided over by Mr. Arvind Sharma (Addl. District & Sessions Judge, Bank Cases) Srinagar and Ms. Arti Mohan (Presiding Officer POCSO Court) Srinagar.
The primary objective of the Lok Adalat for bank recovery cases was to ensure prompt and affordable resolutions, thereby alleviating the burden on the conventional court system. Participants were enabled to negotiate settlements, leading to mutually agreeable outcomes that avoid the prolonged stresses typical of formal judicial proceedings.

Srinagar, July 20, 2024: Justice Tashi Rabstan, Chief Justice (Acting), High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, today inaugurated the Legal Literacy Club (LLC) at Bilaliya Educational Institute, Baghwanpora, Lal Bazar, Srinagar. Justice Tashi was accompanied by Mr. Amit Kumar Gupta, Member Secretary J&K Legal Services Authority and was warmly received by Mr. Jawad Ahmed, Chairman DLSA (PDJ) Srinagar, Mr. Jahangir Ahmad Bakshi, Secretary DLSA Srinagar, Mr. Manzoor Ahmad Wangnoo, Chairman Bilaliya Educational Institute, Dr. Tawseef Ahmad Bhat, Co-ordinator, and other teaching and administrative staff of the institute.
Justice Tashi Rabstan in his continuous efforts to reach out to every part of the region also inaugurated the Legal Literacy Club at Crescent Public School, Naseem Bagh, Srinagar, where he was cordially welcomed by Mr. Shakeel Ahmad Dar, Chairman Crescent Public School, Mr. Karttik Chopra, Philanthropist, alongside the teaching and administrative staff.
During these inaugurations, Hon’ble Mr. Justice Tashi Rabstan held interactions with the newly enrolled student members and teacher in charge of these Legal Literacy Clubs. He emphasized the critical role of Legal Literacy Clubs in fostering a legally aware and informed society. Justice Tashi highlighted the importance of active and positive engagement of students in addressing legal and societal issues, urging the Incharge to motivate and guide students in understanding their rights and responsibilities.
Mr. Amit Kumar Gupta, Member Secretary J&K Legal Services Authority, briefed the media on the continuous efforts by the J&K Legal Services Authority and DLSA’s in establishing an informed society by reaching out to schools across the region. He informed that Srinagar District now hosts 11 Legal Literacy Clubs, including the two LLCs inaugurated today. Mr. Gupta stressed the significance of positively engaging with the youth, channeling their energy towards societal welfare and nation-building.
These initiatives underscore the commitment of the Legal Service Institutions and educational sector in Jammu and Kashmir to empower the younger generation with legal knowledge, fostering a future of informed and responsible citizens.

SRINAGAR, JULY 19: Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL) has intensified its drive against non-payment of electricity bills and remotely disconnected thousands of smart-metered consumers.

Similarly, in flat-rated areas, those consumers who haven’t paid their pending dues for months together are being physically disconnected, till they clear their bills with KPDCL.

In a press statement issued here today, a KPDCL spokesperson stated that fervent appeals have been made urging consumers to pay their bills on time. He further stated that KPDCL is a Service Provider that needs timely clearance of bills by all categories of consumers for electricity supplied to remain economically viable.

While 1,134 smart-metered consumers were disconnected in Electric Division Chanapora on Thursday, electricity supply of 440 consumers in ESD Baramulla I, 240 in ESD Baramulla II and 228 in ESD Qazigund were also snapped.

Large number of consumers are being remotely disconnected across other Subdivisions of Habba Kadal, Watalkadal, Hawal, Anantnag, Kupwara, Handwara, Sopore, Budgam, Chadoora, Zainakote, Zakura, Nishat and Dalgate for not paying bills for over three months,” he added.

Seeking cooperation from all consumers in clearing pending dues, the spokesman said that KPDCL will further accelerate disconnection drives against defaulter consumers who are reluctant to pay their electricity bills on time.

Urging the consumers with huge opening balance to avail the benefits of Government’s Power Amnesty Scheme, the spokesman advised them to approach the concerned Electric Subdivision for paying principal amount in full or instalments, enabling them to claim waiver on late payment surcharge.

“To facilitate the consumers, KPDCL is organising Amnesty Camps on daily basis across all Electric Divisions and so far, over 1 lakh domestic consumers have availed the benefits of the scheme,” he added.

Hon’ble Mr. Justice Tashi Rabstan was accorded a warm reception by Mr. Jawad Ahmed, Principal District & Sessions Judge, Srinagar, along with other judicial officers of District Srinagar. Hon’ble Mr. Justice Tashi Rabstan engaged in an interactive session with the judicial officers, where he expressed his keen interest in the overall efficacy of the justice delivery system. His Lordship compassionately listened to the concerns and issues raised by the judicial officers and assured prompt redressal, reflecting his dedication in improving the judicial processes and infrastructure.
During the visit, Mr. Jawad Ahmed gave a detailed presentation on the ongoing developmental projects within the District Court Complex, which included comprehensive insights into the Phase-II construction of the District Court Complex, which aims to enhance the capacity and facilities of the judicial infrastructure, installation of CCTV cameras within courtrooms. He also highlighted the urgent need of upgraded security arrangements within the court complex. He emphasizing the efforts to ensure a safe and secure environment for all stakeholders. The visit of Hon’ble Mr. Justice Tashi Rabstan underscored his commitment to fostering a robust and efficient judicial system.

The meeting, chaired by Mr. Jawad Ahmed, Principal District & Session Judge (Chairman DLSA) Srinagar, witnessed active participation from key stakeholders, including senior officials from the judiciary, police, administration, and medical fraternity. The committee reviewed the cases of 41 under trial prisoners, engaging in thorough discussions and deliberations to ensure fair and expedited trials.
Each case was meticulously examined, and after thoughtful consideration, the committee formulated suitable recommendations tailored to the specific circumstances of each individual. The meeting aimed to streamline the criminal justice system and uphold the principles of equity and justice.
Mr. Jawad Ahmed, Chairman of the meeting, emphasized the paramount importance of UTRC gatherings in ensuring fair and expedited trials for under trial prisoners. He underscored the need for regular initiatives such as these to strengthen the criminal justice system and protect the rights of under trial prisoners.
The meeting was attended by Mr. Ashish Mishra, S.S.P Srinagar; Mr. Syed Ahmad Kataria, ADC Srinagar; Mr. Sheikh Zulfikar Azad, SSP, Central Jail Srinagar; Mr. Jahangir Ahmad Bakshi, Secretary DLSA Srinagar; Ms. Meena Gowhar, Public Prosecuting Officer, Srinagar; Dr. Sheikh Athar Senior Medical Officer, Central Jail Srinagar; Mr. Saad Ganie, Chief Legal Aid Defense Counsel; and Ms. Zulfi Tasneem, Deputy Legal Aid Counsel.
District Legal Services Authority Srinagar is committed to ensuring that the rights of under trial prisoners are protected, and that they receive fair and speedy trials. The UTRC meetings are a crucial step towards achieving this goal.

JUNE 17: Justice Sanjiv Khanna, Judge, Supreme Court of India and Executive Chairman, National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) along with Justice N. Kotiswar Singh, Chief Justice, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh (Patron-in-Chief, J&K Legal Services Authority) and Justice Tashi Rabstan, Judge, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh (Executive Chairman, J&K Legal Services Authority) conducted an extensive inspection of the Central Jail Srinagar with a purpose to take first hand stock of the living conditions of jail inmates and functioning of the jail.

The distinguished delegation was warmly received by Deepak Kumar, Director General Prisons, J&K, Jawad Ahmed, Chairman DLSA, Srinagar and Sheikh Zulfiqar Azad, Superintendent, Central Jail Srinagar.

The inspection covered various aspects of operation of jail, including the Jail Legal Aid Clinic, Welfare Block, Vocational Training Centre, Computer Training Centre, Music and Fine Arts Centre, Calligraphy Centre, Jail Hospital, Kitchen Area, Women Block Prisoners, and the exclusive Women-Centric Tailoring Centre. The Medical Center within the jail premises was also inspected and a detailed review about the de-addiction facilities for jail inmates were reviewed.

Justice Khanna extended Eid greetings to the jail inmates, emphasizing the spirit of compassion. During his visit, he interacted with several inmates, addressing their concerns and assuring them of continued efforts to improve their living conditions and access to justice. The interaction also included a meeting with the officers of the Central Jail, where Justice Khanna discussed the importance of effective legal aid provisions, rehabilitation and skill development programs for inmates.

As a token of respect the jail inmates presented paintings to the Justice Khanna, Justice N. Kotiswar Singh and Justice Tashi and also expressed their gratitude for visiting them on this auspicious occasion of Eid. Another highlight of the visit was a live musical performance by the jail inmates, showcasing their talents and the positive impact of the rehabilitation programs.

Justice Khanna highlighted the introduction of a unique and full-time Legal Aid Defense Counsel (LADC) system, designed to benefit those who are unable to afford legal representation in various courts. This initiative aims to ensure that every individual, regardless of their financial status, has access to justice and fair representation in our system which is not only robust but also a unique concept as compared to the other parts of the world.

Justice Khanna praised the efforts of the prison administration in providing inmates with vocational and educational training, which is crucial for their reintegration into society. He also commended the staff for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene within the jail premises and ensuring the welfare of the inmates.

Those who were present on the occasion include Shahzad Azeem, Registrar General, High Court of J&K and Ladakh, M.K. Sharma, Principal Secretary to the Chief Justice, Amit Kumar Gupta, Member Secretary, J&K Legal Services Authority, Farooq Ahmad Bhat, Registrar Judicial, Prem Sagar, Secretary, High Court Legal Services Committee, Abdul Bari, Joint Registrar (Judicial), Jahangir Ahmad Bakshi, Secretary, DLSA Srinagar, Showkat Ahmad, SP North Srinagar, Officers of CRPF, Shabir Ahmad, Deputy Superintendent, Central Jail Srinagar, Medical Officers and Para Medical Staff of Jail Hospital and members of LADC system as well PLVs.

SRINAGAR, JUNE 17: The Lieutenant Governor, Shri Manoj Sinha, has extended his heartiest greetings and best wishes to the people on the eve of Eid-ul-Zuha.

In a message, the Lt Governor said, “Heartiest greetings and best wishes to all on the auspicious occasion of Eid-ul-Zuha.

The sacred festival of Eid-ul-Zuha is a symbol of selfless sacrifice and sharing. Let us, on this occasion, reaffirm our resolve to further strengthen the spirit of brotherhood and unity. May Eid-ul-Zuha bring peace, prosperity and joy for everyone”.

Mehbooba greets people on eve of Eid-ul- Azha

Srinagar 16 June : The Jammu and Kashmir People’s Democratic Party (JKPDP) president and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti extended her warm greetings and best wishes to the people on the eve of Eid ul Azha.
In her message, Mehbooba emphasised the importance of Eid ul Azha as a time for introspection, gratitude, and coming together as a community. She also urged to celebrate this Eid with austerity and simplicity and remember the needy on this occasion.
Eid ul Azha is a reminder for all of us to strengthen our bonds of love and compassion, to extend a helping hand to those in need, and to practice empathy and generosity. Let us celebrate this joyous occasion with a sense of unity, spreading happiness and goodwill among all”, she said.
Mehbooba expressed her earnest desire for peace and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir and the entire region.
She prayed for a joyous and blessed Eid ul Azha to everyone & expressed hope that this festive occasion would bring peace, harmony, and prosperity to Jammu and Kashmir and foster unity among its diverse communities. ‘

Issued through Media Cell

SRINAGAR, JUNE 15: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today chaired a high-level meeting on the security situation and also reviewed the progress of various development projects of Kashmir Division.

The meeting was attended by Sh Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Sh Chandraker Bharti, Principal Secretary Home Department; Sh Vijay Kumar, ADGP Law & Order; Sh Nitish Kumar, ADGP CID; Sh Vidhi Kumar Birdi, IGP Kashmir; Dr Mandeep Kumar Bhandari, Principal Secretary to Lt Governor; Sh Vijay Bidhuri, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, DIGs, Deputy Commissioners, SSPs and other senior officials.

The Lt Governor directed the Civil and Police administration to work in close coordination with the security agencies to neutralise the terror ecosystem.

He said those who are aiding and abetting terrorists and their ecosystem should not be spared.

During the meeting, the Lt Governor sought the action taken report from the DCs and SSPs to curb the menace of drug abuse in their respective districts.

The meeting also discussed the preparations made by the districts and police administration ahead of the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, Yoga Diwas and Eid-ul-Adha celebrations.

The meeting discussed important matters related to yatra including security and traffic management, upgradation of roads; earmarking of areas for tents, langar services; RFID Cards and 100% implementation of pre-paid services of ponies and pithoos.

The Lt Governor also reviewed the progress of various development projects, delivery of public services and implementation of Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) and other government-run schemes and programmes.

The Lt Governor also congratulated the DCs and SSPs for the successful and peaceful conduct of Parliamentary elections and Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela.