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Crime Branch Kashmir files charge sheet in Rs 13 lakh MBBS admission fraud case

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Srinagar, Jan 16, KNT: The Economic Offences Wing of Crime Branch Kashmir has filed a charge sheet before the Court of Sub-Judge, Baramulla in connection with an alleged MBBS admission fraud involving ₹13 lakh.

Officials said the charge sheet has been filed against accused Aquib Javeed, son of Mohd Ayoub, and Mohd Ahtesham Ahmad, son of Mohd Ayoub, both inhabitants of Ring Road, Adarsh Nagar, Gulbarga, District Kalaburagi in Karnataka.

The case originated from a written complaint submitted by a victim who alleged that he was approached by one Dr. Shamsu-Din, working at Al-Amin Medical College in Bijapur, Karnataka. The complainant was allegedly assured that MBBS admission for his son would be arranged through accused Aquib Javeed. Acting on this assurance, the complainant paid an amount of ₹13 lakh.

However, police said that neither was the complainant’s ward provided admission in any medical college nor was the money returned, prompting him to approach the authorities.

Following the receipt of the complaint, a detailed investigation was initiated by the Police Station Economic Offences Wing, Crime Branch Kashmir. During the investigation, it was established that Aquib Javeed, in criminal conspiracy with his brother Mohd Ahtesham Ahmad, had cheated the complainant by falsely promising admission to his son in KBN Medical College, Bijapur.

Investigating officers stated that sufficient evidence surfaced during the probe, establishing the commission of offences punishable under Sections 420 and 120-B IPC against the accused persons.

Consequently, the charge sheet has been submitted before the competent court in absentia by initiating proceedings under Section 512 of the Criminal Procedure Code, as the accused were not available during the filing of the charge sheet.

Police said further legal proceedings will follow as per the directions of the court. [KNT]

KCC&I Holds Interactive Session With Customs Officials to Address Export Challenges

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Srinagar, Jan 15, : The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry on Thursday organized an interactive session with senior officials of the Customs Department at the Chamber office to deliberate on key issues confronting exporters from Jammu and Kashmir and to explore measures for smoother export operations from the region.

 

The interaction was attended by Sanjay Gupta, Chief Commissioner, Customs Preventive Zone, Delhi; Alok Srivastava, Commissioner, Customs Preventive Commissionerate, Amritsar; Buddhi Prakash; Puneet Gunawat; and Purushottam Gupta.

 

President KCC&I Javid Ahmad Tenga welcomed the Customs officials and appreciated their willingness to engage directly with exporters and industry stakeholders. The meeting was attended by members of the executive committee, past presidents of the Chamber, and a large number of exporter members.

 

In his address, Tenga highlighted major concerns faced by exporters, including drawback related issues, procedural and compliance challenges, and the infrastructure deficit at Srinagar International Airport, particularly in cargo handling facilities and operational constraints during adverse weather conditions. He said these bottlenecks adversely affect the competitiveness of exports from the Kashmir region.

 

Outlining the Chamber’s vision, Tenga emphasized the need to substantially increase exports and said KCC&I aims to work towards doubling exports through improved infrastructure, facilitative Customs procedures, and supportive policy interventions. He stressed the urgent requirement to upgrade export infrastructure on a war footing basis and reiterated the long pending demand for the establishment of an Inland Container Depot in the region.

 

The meeting was also attended by representatives of Jammu and Kashmir Bank, including Vishal Sharma and Shabir Ahmad Reshi. The bank officials shared the banking sector’s perspective on challenges faced by exporters, particularly regarding issuance of electronic bank realization certificates, timelines, procedural requirements, and extension of export bills.

 

A detailed question and answer session formed a key part of the interaction, during which exporters directly raised operational and procedural issues and sought clarifications from Customs officials on drawback processing, documentation, cargo movement, and airport logistics.

 

Sanjay Gupta assured exporters that genuine concerns would be examined at appropriate levels, while Alok Srivastava reiterated the Customs Department’s commitment to trade facilitation alongside regulatory compliance.

 

Past President KCC&I Rauf Ahmad Punjabi presented a vote of thanks and requested Customs officials to organize an awareness workshop for exporters. The Chief Commissioner welcomed the suggestion and assured that an awareness workshop would be organized in Srinagar in April. [KNT]

Anantnag Police Attach Vehicle in UAPA Case

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Anantnag, Jan 15, : Anantnag Police on Thursday attached a vehicle under the provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act as part of its ongoing action against unlawful activities in the district.

Police officials said an Alto car bearing registration number JK13E-5393 was attached in connection with FIR No. 40/2025 registered at Police Station Uttrasoo. The case has been registered under Sections 18, 20, 23 and 39 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and Sections 7 and 25 of the Indian Arms Act.

The attachment was carried out during the course of investigation and in accordance with due legal procedure, officials said. The action forms part of efforts to curb activities considered prejudicial to security and public order.

Police said such measures are aimed at dismantling networks involved in unlawful activities by targeting assets allegedly used or acquired in connection with such cases. [KNT]

Government silent as religious clerics face harassment in Kashmir: Mehbooba

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Srinagar, Jan 14, KNT: Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti on Wednesday strongly criticised the alleged profiling of mosques in Kashmir, terming it an attempt to intimidate Muslims and keep them away from religion.

Talking to reporters, Mehbooba Mufti questioned the intent behind what she described as a detailed profiling exercise, which allegedly includes a five-page proforma seeking extensive information. She said clerics and even individuals labelled as overground workers are being asked to fill in personal and religious details.

 

“If profiling is really needed, then it should begin with temples. Do you carry out such exercises in temples or churches?” she asked, adding that mosques are open to all and do not discriminate. She also objected to questions being asked about religious sects, saying identifying people as Shia or Sunni reflects a dangerous mindset.

 

Mehbooba Mufti said profiling of mosques has started in Kashmir and expressed apprehension that it could soon be extended across the country. She alleged that there is growing intimidation of religious clerics and regretted that the government has maintained silence on the issue.

 

She further claimed that hatred against Muslims has reached an extreme level and alleged that respectable citizens are being targeted. Referring to the termination of employees in recent years, she said those affected were not even given an opportunity to plead their cases.

 

The PDP chief also alleged that with the approach of January 26, released militants are routinely summoned to police stations and detained, which she termed as harassment.

 

Mehbooba Mufti criticized what she described as attempts to blame her party when authorities fail to find alternatives. “It is enough now. How long will Muslims and Kashmiri inhabitants continue to be humiliated?” she asked.

 

Taking a dig at the present leadership, she said that if the current government lacks the authority to speak, at least Chief Minister-designate Omar Abdullah should raise his voice. She also cautioned against what she termed as the weaponisation of water and criticised any move to align with the BJP’s stand on the Indus Water Treaty.

Mehbooba Mufti further alleged that former chief minister Farooq Abdullah had handed over power projects to NHPC, resulting in losses for Jammu and Kashmir. She questioned whether Omar Abdullah would compensate for those losses suffered by the people. [KNT]

Two tenants from South Kashmir die of suspected suffocation in rented room in Srinagar

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Srinagar, Jan 14, KNT: Two tenants were found dead due to suspected suffocation in a rented room at Nowgam area of Srinagar on Wednesday, officials said.

They said an incident of suspected suffocation was reported from Nowgam, where two tenants were found unconscious inside a rented room. They were immediately shifted to a hospital, where doctors declared them brought dead.

Police said the rented accommodation belongs to one Ghulam Ahmad Ahanger. The deceased have been identified as Bashir Ahmad Wagay, son of Ghulam Rasool Wagay, and Nisar Ahmad Ahanger, son of Ghulam Ahmad Ahanger, both residents of Kokernag in Anantnag district, and were working as labourers in Srinagar.

Police said further investigation is underway to ascertain the exact cause of death, while all required medico-legal formalities are being carried out. [KNT]

Four Missing Tourists Rescued After Being Stranded in Sub-Zero Conditions

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Leh, Jan 14, KNT: Police in Ladakh have safely rescued four tourists from Uttar Pradesh who had gone missing during their trip to the Pangong Lake region, ending days of anxiety for their families.

 

The tourists, all from Agra, Uttar Pradesh, had reportedly lost contact with their families, prompting a missing persons alert. Acting on the information, police teams launched a focused search operation in harsh weather conditions, using technical inputs and last known location data.

 

Officials said the group had travelled to Pangong Lake in a private vehicle on January 9. While returning towards Leh, they inadvertently took the Leh–Manali road, which remains closed due to heavy snowfall. Their vehicle later met with a minor accident, forcing them to abandon it along the roadside.

 

Search teams first located the stranded vehicle near Sarchu and subsequently expanded the operation to adjoining areas, including Debring and Whisky Nalla. The tourists were eventually traced nearly 20 kilometres away, where they had taken shelter inside a hut to escape the freezing temperatures.

 

Police said the tourists initially spent two nights inside their vehicle, using its heating system to stay warm until the fuel supply was exhausted. Thereafter, they moved out in search of shelter, which ultimately helped them survive the extreme cold.

All four tourists were found in stable condition and were provided immediate assistance, including food, water and medical support. Arrangements have been made to escort them safely to Leh, from where they will be reunited with their families. [KNT]

Labourer Dies Following Machine Belt Accident at Copper Factory

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Srinagar, Jan 13, KNT: The labourer who was injured in a factory accident at Ali Copper Factory located at SIDCO Khonmoh has succumbed to his injuries, officials said on Tuesday.

 

The deceased has been identified as Tariq Ahmad Ahanger, son of Ghulam Rasool, a resident of Watakuloo Chararisharief in Budgam district. He was critically injured after being hit by the belt of a copper machine while performing his duties at the factory.

 

Officials said Tariq Ahmad Ahanger was immediately shifted for medical treatment following the accident. However, he later died due to the severity of his injuries.

 

Police have taken cognisance of the incident and said further proceedings will be initiated as per law to ascertain the circumstances that led to the fatal accident. [KNT]

Medstar Hospital Launches Free Ambulance Service, Announces Discounts for Poor, Special Benefits for Girl Child Births

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inagar, Jan 13, KNT: Medstar Hospital Nowgam in Srinagar has introduced a free ambulance service for patients living within a five kilometre radius of the hospital, aiming to ease access to medical care for the poor and needy.

The ambulance service was inaugurated by social activist Jibran Dar, who appreciated the hospital management for extending support to economically weaker sections. He said the initiative would provide much needed relief to patients who struggle to arrange transportation during medical emergencies.

 

Jibran Dar said he had personally approached the hospital owner, Dr Mir Samiullah, requesting special concessions for poor patients. He said the doctor readily agreed to extend benefits, calling it a positive and humane gesture. He expressed gratitude to Medstar Hospital for prioritising public welfare.

 

As part of the initiative, the hospital has also announced discounts for below poverty line patients. In addition, families in which a girl child is born will receive a fifty percent discount on treatment along with free medicines, an effort aimed at promoting social responsibility and encouraging the value of girl children.

 

Dr Mir Samiullah said it was an honour for him and his team to serve society. He said the Golden Card health scheme is being implemented at the hospital and the institution remains committed to providing affordable healthcare. He added that the primary motive of Medstar Hospital is to serve poor patients by offering quality treatment at minimum charges.

 

Hospital officials said that unlike corporate hospitals, Medstar Hospital focuses on affordable healthcare without compromising on services, and more welfare oriented steps will be taken in the future for the benefit of the public. [KNT]

Shopian, Pulwama Freeze Below Minus 8°C; Ladakh Continues to Shiver Under Extreme Cold

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Srinagar, Jan 10, KNT: Severe cold conditions continued to prevail across Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh as most areas recorded sub zero temperatures during the intervening night, intensifying the winter chill across the region.

According to temperature data compiled by Kashmir Weather, large parts of the Kashmir Valley remained in the grip of intense cold. Shopian emerged as the coldest location in the Valley, recording a minimum temperature of minus 8.2 degrees Celsius, followed closely by Pulwama at minus 8.0 degrees Celsius.

Pahalgam registered a low of minus 7.8 degrees Celsius, while Sopore recorded minus 7.6 degrees Celsius. The temperature at Srinagar Airport dropped to minus 7.2 degrees Celsius.

The minimum temperature in Srinagar city settled at minus 5.7 degrees Celsius. Qazigund recorded minus 6.3 degrees Celsius, Kupwara minus 6.1 degrees Celsius and Gulmarg, a popular tourist destination, recorded minus 6.8 degrees Celsius. Temperature data for Kulgam was not available.

Cold conditions were also reported from the Jammu region, particularly in higher altitude areas. Bhaderwah recorded a minimum of minus 2.8 degrees Celsius, while Samba and Rajouri both registered minus 1.6 degrees Celsius. Banihal recorded minus 0.4 degrees Celsius and Udhampur 0.2 degrees Celsius. Jammu city recorded a comparatively milder minimum of 3.6 degrees Celsius, while Katra settled at 5.2 degrees Celsius. Data for Doda and Poonch was not available.

Ladakh continued to experience extreme cold conditions. Drass once again recorded the lowest temperature in the region at minus 24.6 degrees Celsius. Padum recorded minus 19.6 degrees Celsius, Nyoma minus 20.3 degrees Celsius, and Hanle minus 17.0 degrees Celsius. Leh recorded minus 14.4 degrees Celsius, Kargil minus 13.7 degrees Celsius, Nubra Valley minus 13.5 degrees Celsius and Tangste minus 17.7 degrees Celsius. [KNT][

Pulwama Police to Auction 487 Seized Apple Boxes as per Court Orders

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Pulwama: In compliance with the directions of the Hon’ble Court of Special NDPS Judge, Pulwama, the Pulwama Police have decided to conduct a public auction of apple boxes seized in an NDPS-related case.

The auction pertains to 487 apple boxes seized in connection with FIR No. 03/2026 under Sections 8/21 of the NDPS Act of Police Station Litter, which are currently lying in the custody of Police Station Litter. The seized goods shall be disposed of through an open public auction in accordance with legal procedures.

The auction will be held on January 12, 2026 at 1300 hours onwards at Police Station Litter. The seized items will be sold as they are, without any claim later

Interested bidders are advised to be present at the venue on the scheduled date and time with valid identity proof. The auction will be conducted in a transparent manner under the supervision of a duly authorized committee. The highest bidder shall be declared successful, subject to completion of required formalities.

Pulwama Police reserve the right to accept or reject any bid without assigning any reason, strictly in accordance with law