Jammu & Kashmir

Kashmir Angle: Stakeholders see renewed interest as pilgrimage ends peacefully with over 4 lakh visitors

Omar Abdullah advocated for Jammu and Kashmir's swift restoration to statehood, citing the Supreme Court's directive. He emphasized the importance of cultural festivals for exchange. He also spoke of promoting border tourism to boost local economies, particularly in areas like Gurez.

Ladakh activists will begin a three-day hunger strike on August 9, protesting delays in talks with the Centre. They demand statehood, Sixth Schedule inclusion, separate Lok Sabha seats, and a Public Service Commission. The groups are frustrated by the government's postponement of further discussions. The new Lieutenant Governor is addressing local concerns.

Kulgam villagers in Akhal are enduring severe hardships due to the ongoing anti-terror operation, including sleeplessness, food shortages, and psychological distress. They are requesting relocation and appealing for aid, especially for ration, water, and medical supplies. Local officials are also seeking government assistance.

An NIA court in Kashmir framed charges against two individuals in a terror funding case linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba and a Pakistan-based handler. Security forces in Kishtwar busted a hideout and seized an AK-47 rifle, ammunition, and a binocular.

The security forces are using all means, including drones and helicopters, to track down the terrorists in the difficult terrain in the forest area

The vehicle was carrying 23 personnel.

A nomadic Bakerwal family's tent in Kulgam was struck by a falling tree and boulders due to strong winds and rain. The incident killed a father and daughter and injured two other family members. The injured are hospitalized in stable condition.

Ladakh is launching a tourism campaign to attract visitors. The administration plans to partner with Bollywood stars and social media influencers to promote its scenic beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure tourism, aiming to establish Ladakh as a premier global travel destination.

Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University faces a critical faculty shortage. Over 60% of teaching posts are vacant, including all professor positions. Junior staff are overburdened, impacting education quality and administrative functions. Numerous support staff positions are also unfilled.

Engineer Rashid, a newly elected MP, seeks to modify a Delhi High Court order requiring him to pay for custodial escort while attending Parliament, arguing it hinders his ability to represent constituents. He claims he didn't consent to the cost and previously attended without expense. The court will hear the matter further on August 12.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration banned 25 books, including works by Arundhati Roy and AG Noorani, citing false narratives and secessionism. The government claims these books mislead youth, glorify terrorism, and incite violence, contributing to radicalization.

The CIK arrested two individuals in Delhi, alleging they facilitated terror funding for Lashkar-e-Taiba from across the LoC. Raids on a textile business uncovered a cross-border financial network using couriers and hawala channels. Digital evidence suggests links to Pakistani handlers and Gulf-based sympathizers.

Hanle, Ladakh, India's first Dark Sky Reserve, is training locals as astro-ambassadors to guide stargazers. This initiative, supported by local authorities, boosts tourism and local income. Efforts are underway to manage light pollution and preserve the dark sky, a key element of the village's identity.

An anti-terrorist operation in Kulgam district entered its sixth day. Security forces, using drones and helicopters, are battling terrorists in a forest area. Two terrorists have been killed, and at least two security personnel were injured. The identities of the slain terrorists are unknown.

The PDP welcomed Omar Abdullah's call for statehood in Jammu and Kashmir but criticized its focus on statehood alone. The PDP believes restoring Articles 370 and 35A, which define the region's special status, is crucial and accuses the NC of downplaying this issue. They view the statehood emphasis as aligning with the BJP's agenda and pledge to fight for complete restoration of rights.

Lt Gen PK Mishra, GOC of the White Knight Corps, reviewed security in Poonch district. He focused on operational dominance and integrated threat response to counter enemy actions. He commended the troops' morale and readiness.

Prime Minister Modi will launch a Vande Bharat Express train connecting Katra and Amritsar on August 10th. Train 26406 will travel from Katra to Amritsar, and Train 26405 will run the reverse route, six days a week. The train offers faster travel for those visiting the Vaishno Devi shrine.

Omar Abdullah is urging national parties to support a bill restoring Jammu and Kashmir's statehood in the current Parliament session. He emphasizes the promise made to the people and welcomes the Supreme Court hearing on the matter. He hopes for statehood restoration, either through the government or the court.

2 terrorists have been killed while at least two security forces personnel were injured in the gunfight which began on Friday

Accident took place near Jakhani along the Jammu-Srinagar national highway    

Malik had denied receiving Mufti’s letter claiming NC, Cong support

An anti-terror operation in Kulgam forests entered its fifth day, involving the police, army, and CRPF. One militant's body was recovered, with a second likely killed. Security forces are using helicopters, drones, and special forces against an estimated five militants, hampered by the dense forest. Top officials are overseeing the operation.

The Supreme Court will hear a petition on August 8th regarding the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. Petitioners argue delaying statehood violates federalism. The Court previously upheld the abrogation of Article 370 but stated statehood should be restored 'at the earliest.' Elections were held in 2024.

PDP, NC, Congress accuse Centre of betrayal; BJP hails development post abrogation