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Terror ecosystem crushed, now time to present J&K’s true narrative: LG Sinha 

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Asserting that the terror ecosystem has been crushed and now is the time to present the true narrative of Jammu Kashmir, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday called on thinkers and writers to rectify the distorted narratives about Jammu and Kashmir.

Speaking at the inaugural function of Kashmir Literature Festival organised by Srikula Foundation here, LG Sinha, according to KNO said, “Today the young historians must provide accurate and factually correct accounts challenging lies that were propagated in the region. In the last few years, new writers have tried to do justice to the injustice done to the history of India, which is an excellent initiative. Efforts are also being made to take Indian literature to the world, which is highly commendable,”

He said, “For decades, a manipulated narrative was propagated here in Jammu Kashmir. Writers and media figures grudgingly admit that, out of fear of terrorists and their ecosystem, they were forced to promote the narrative being pushed from across the border in the Valley. The terror ecosystem has been dismantled and now is the time to present the true narrative of Jammu Kashmir, free from all bias and fear of gun, to strengthen the trust and accelerate socio-economic growth,”

“The terror ecosystem has been dismantled and now is the time to present the true narrative of Jammu Kashmir, free from all bias and fear of gun, to strengthen the trust and accelerate socio-economic growth,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

“There were people connected with the terror ecosystem and even today, a few still try to control the narrative. The narrative propagated by those sitting across the LoC was deliberately promoted for years,” LG Sinha remarked.

He also called for correcting the narrative regarding Jammu Kashmir by identifying the misinformation and countering it with verified facts.

The LG asserted that the administration has acted tough against elements trying to perpetuate this false narrative. However, he acknowledged that a few individuals continue to propagate the ideology of terror outfits and attempt to instigate the public.

“There are some who still have a problem with the progress and peace of Jammu and Kashmir, but the people now fully understand their motives,” he said.

Referring to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, LG Sinha praised the overwhelming public condemnation of terrorism across towns and villages. “People across J&K strongly opposed Pakistan-sponsored terrorism. Terrorists and their supporters have no place in our society,” he asserted, adding that the administration remains firm in its resolve to root out all remnants of the terror ecosystem.

Expressing optimism about the changing mindset of the youth, the LG said that art, culture, and music are playing a vital role in promoting positivity and unity.

“With the support of the youth and the creative community, the remnants of negativity will soon disappear. People have realized how they were misled for a long time. The day citizens join hands with the security forces, the last traces of the terror ecosystem will vanish,” LG Sinha said.

Terming scholars as pride of the nation, he said, “The scholar earns respect across the country and acts as a torch bearer.”

He recalled his student days when the aim of studying mathematics, science, or engineering was to create something meaningful for society.

He described a writer as an “engineer of existence” who learns and experiments in life’s laboratory, guiding society and shaping thought through words.

Reflecting on his early years, LG Sinha said he grew up reading great authors, including foreign writers who wrote in simple and accessible language and mentioned Mabel Collins, who wrote ‘Light on the Path’ at the age of 18 — a work that deeply influenced social consciousness.

LG Sinha stressed that writers are custodians of ideas — capable of preserving them, shaping the world, and promoting critical thinking.

Despite technological progress, he said, documenting history remains the timeless duty of writers.

Expressing concern over the distortion of India’s history, the Lt Governor said efforts will be made to present Jammu and Kashmir’s rich literary traditions before the world, describing the region as the “energy center of the nation.”

He stressed reviving the spirit of creative thought and called upon Indian writers to present the nation’s true history confidently before global audiences.

Highlighting Kashmir’s cultural and historical depth, LG Sinha said, “It is essential to weave the region’s historic transformations into words and express what we truly feel.”

He, however, noted that no modern historian can be compared to Kalhana, the great chronicler of ancient Kashmir.

The Lt Governor said expressions of poets like Habba Khatoon, Nund Rishi and Padma Sachdev emerged from the soil of Kashmir and contributed immensely to India’s cultural identity. “India’s Sanskrit heritage and Sanatan consciousness are deeply rooted in Jammu and Kashmir,” he said.

He also noted that India’s history reflects a long-standing spirit of global dialogue. Referring to ancient texts like the ‘Nemat Puran’, he said they demonstrate India’s intellectual engagement with the wider world even in early times.

Urging the youth to draw inspiration from the wisdom of the past, the Lt Governor said learning from ancient dialogues can help the younger generation move forward with stronger ideas and vision.

Reflecting on recent developments, he said that over the last four to five years, literary festivals and book events have flourished across India. He stressed the need to expand such initiatives and connect youth to libraries, Indian classical music, and cultural activities.

Sharing an inspiring anecdote about Tansen and Akbar, the Lt Governor recalled how Akbar once wished to meet Tansen’s guru, Sant Haridas. “Tansen told him that true masters do not visit royal courts. When Akbar later listened to Sant Haridas sing by the Yamuna, he was moved to tears. When asked why he couldn’t sing like his guru, Tansen replied, “I sing to attain something, but my Guru sings because he has already attained everything.”

LG Sinha said India has always been the land of great saints and artists, and it is the duty of writers and thinkers to carry this legacy forward.

He said, “Writers must do research and use critical proof to challenge and correct the misleading historical accounts,”

The Lieutenant Governor said that during the colonial era and after independence a certain group of writers distorted our history to shape their ideological agenda.

The Lieutenant Governor, in his address, highlighted the need for offering new perspectives and vision to the readers in a rapidly evolving world to meet unprecedented challenges and opportunities, and understanding of nature, culture and people’s well-being.

Lieutenant General (Retd.) D.P. Pandey; Yuvraj Srivastava, Founder Srikula foundation; senior officials, prominent literary personalities, members of Srikula foundation, people from different walks of life and youth in large number attended the inaugural ceremony. (KNO)

‘Had PDP not aligned with BJP, Article 370, Article 35A wouldn’t have abrogated’: Nasir Aslam Wani

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Senior National Conference leader and advisor to Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani on Friday said that had Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) not aligned with Bharatiya Janata Party in 2015, Article 370 and Art. 35A would not have been abrogated.”

Talking to reporters, as per KNO, Wani said that PDP has pushed Kashmiris into a state of suffering by aligning with BJP.“Those who pushed us into a state of suffering, and we have not been able to extricate ourselves from it,” he said.

He said Dr. Farooq Abdullah has decided to spend most of the time in J&K.

“Dr. Sahab has decided to remain in Jammu and Kashmir. He believes his presence is more needed here, given the current political scenario. We need his experience and guidance,” he said. (KNO)

NC announces candidates for Rajya Sabha polls

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: National Conference on Friday announced its candidates for the upcoming Rajya Sabha polls scheduled on October 24.

Addressing a news conference here, as per KNO, National Conference, General Secretary, Ali Muhammad Sagar named Choudhary Muhammad Ramzan (former minister), Sajad Ahmad Kichloo (former minister of state for Home) and Shammi Oberoi (Treasurer) of its candidate for the polls.

“They will nomination papers in the next few days,” he said, adding that the names of candidates were finalised by the party’s core committee.

Ramzan, a senior National Conference leader from Handwara, has served as minister in NC-led governments. Sajad Kichloo, who hails from Kishtwar, was also a minister in Omar Abdullah-led government.

Shammi, a Sikh face of the party, is a trusted loyalist of Abdullah family.

Sagar said that they are currently in discussion with the National Conference for the fourth seat. “We have kept one seat open and the talks are on with Congress over it,” he said.

The NC leader did not clarify whether they intend to leave one of the three ‘safe’ seats for the Congress or offer them a ‘risky’ seat where the BJP holds an advantage.

Advisor to CM Nasir Aslam Wani said they will soon finalise candidates for Budgam and Nagrota by-polls.

“Since the date of filing of nomination papers for RS polls is on Monday, we finalised candidates today. The Parliamentary board will sit again and announce candidates for two candidates,” he said.

In the Rajya Sabha polls, the National Conference-led alliance is poised to win three seats, while the BJP holds an advantageous position for the fourth.

The competition would be between BJP and the alliance candidate on the fourth seat. While the alliance has 24 second preference votes, the BJP has 28 votes. (KNO)

2 missing Army paratroopers found dead in Kokernag forests

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Two Army paratroopers who went missing five days ago during an operation in the Ahlan Gadole area of Kokernag in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district have been found dead.

“The body of the second missing para commando was recovered by security forces today during the ongoing search operation in the dense forest area of Gadole in Kokernag,” an official told KNO.

The body of the first missing para commando was recovered from the same forest area yesterday. “On the intervening night of October 6 and 7, an operational team in the Kishtwar Range encountered a severe snowstorm and whiteout conditions in the mountains of South Kashmir. Since then, two soldiers had gone out of communication,” the Chinar Corps wrote on X on Wednesday.

“Intense search and rescue operations were launched but were hampered by adverse weather conditions,” it added.

A massive combing operation was launched on Monday evening in the dense Gadole forest area to trace the missing commandos. The Army had pressed drones, UAVs, and helicopters into service during the search. “Chinar Corps honours the supreme sacrifice of Bravehearts Lance Havildar Palash Ghosh and Lance Naik Sujay Ghosh, who laid down their lives while conducting relentless counter-terror operations in the Kishtwar Range of Kokernag, battling extreme weather conditions. Their courage and dedication will forever inspire us. Chinar Warriors salute the valour and sacrifice of the Bravehearts. We stand in solidarity with the bereaved families and are committed to their well-being,” the Chinar Corps said in a post on X on Friday.

With the recovery of both bodies, the search and rescue operation concluded in the area. (KNO)

BSF on alert, watching border threats with AI, drones, says IG Shashank Anand

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Inspector General (IG) of Border Security Force (BSF) for Jammu, Shashank Anand on Friday said that the security forces are alert on the border and are maintaining a tight vigil.

As per KNO, talking to reporters at BSF Headquarters here, IG BSF said, “Cross-border activities remain under constant watch and we are prepared to counter any threat.”

“We are closely monitoring all activities. Whenever we notice any suspicious movement we develop effective strategies with other agencies,” the IG said.

He said the BSF remains vigilant and committed to preventing any attempt at infiltration or cross-border activity. “The enemy always tries to infiltrate, but we are vigilant and in close coordination with our sister agencies,” he added.

On evolving threats and warfare methods, IG Anand said the BSF is adapting new technologies, including drone warfare and artificial intelligence.

“This 21st century has witnessed changes, and aerial routes such as drones are being used. AI is also being employed. BSF is not lagging behind; we are training our troops in drones for attack and defence purposes, and if there is any opportunity, we will use it,” he said.

The IG BSF said that the challenges on the border change with seasons, especially during winter, and the force is prepared accordingly. “During winter season, our challenges are different, and we have formulated strategies to foil any infiltration attempt by the enemy. We are patrolling our borders,” he said.

“After Operation Sindoor, we have accelerated the introduction of modern technology across defence and paramilitary forces,” he said.

“A dedicated School of Drone Warfare has been set up at the BSF Academy in Gwalior, where troops are being trained to operate drone squadrons and drone commandos. We will be able to inflict damage on an adversary in ways they may not have even imagined,” he said.

He also said the BSF has had drone capability for some time, but now it is moving toward next-level warfare. “BSF personnel and officers are being trained on how to integrate modern technology into 21st-century warfare,” he said.

As part of BSF’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations, IG Anand announced a full marathon in Jammu on November 9, 2025. “For the first time in Jammu, we are organising a full marathon,” he said.

The event aims to promote health, fitness, and identify sporting talent in the Union Territory. “It will nurture talent and inspire healthier lifestyles,” he said. (KNO)

In consultation with J&K govt on statehood restoration: Centre tells Supreme Court

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: The Centre on Friday told the Supreme Court that it is in consultation with the Jammu and Kashmir government over statehood restoration even as the top court granted four weeks time to the Union government to respond to petitioners’ demand.

Hearing petitions on statehood restoration to Jammu and Kashmir, the Supreme Court, as per KNO, granted four weeks to the Centre to respond to Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood demand.

The order was passed after Solicitor General, Tushar Mehta cited Pahalgam terror attack, stating that the incident must be considered before restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir.

The Solicitor General also informed the top court that the central government is in consultation with state government on statehood restoration and that’s the correct approach.

Earlier, senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan appearing for petitioners said that Pahalgam attack happened “under the watch of central government”. “There was a solemn undertaking that statehood will be restored. Now Pahalgam attack occurred under their (Centre’s) watch,” he said.

Advocate Sankaranarayanan also submitted that statehood was taken away in 2019 and we are now in 2025. “Now for reasons best known to them enough water has flown under the bridge and elections have also been held,” he said.

Solicitor General Mehta interjected, stating, “I take objection. Under our govt watch. Who are they? Supreme court must rule on this.” He also said that not only water much blood had also flown. “Elections took place peacefully and factors such as Pahalgam incident must be considered before granting statehood,” he submitted.

Another advocate for petitioners stated that there was an undertaking given to the Court that the statehood will be restored. “If the undertaking is not honoured, what is to be done?,” he asked.

Advocate Sankaranarayanan told the top court that the matter should now go before a five-judge bench if the Centre is not deciding on statehood promise.

SG Mehta asserted that Centre is in consultation with state government and that is the correct approach. “Jammu and Kashmir region has progressed, everyone is happy. 99.99 percent of the people there treat Government of India as their own government. So all that they are saying must be taken with a pinch of salt,” he said.

The Supreme Court recorded, “Learned SG Mehta states that elections to the Jammu and Kashmir assembly were held in peaceful manner and elected government was put in place. It is stated that there has been substantial progress in J&K but says that certain incidents including Pahalgam attack have taken place and all will have to be taken into consideration before a final call. It is stated Centre and state are in consultation. Learned SG seeks more time to respond. Four weeks time granted.”

The petitioners are seeking immediate restoration of statehood and implementation of directions passed by a constitutional bench of the Supreme Court in December 2023.

A bench headed by Chief Justice B R Gavai is hearing the plea. On August 14, the top court had given two months time to the Centre to file its response. So far, Centre has not filed any response.

On December 11, 2023, a Constitution Bench of Supreme Court had upheld abrogation of article 370 but directed Central government to restore statehood to Jammu and Kashmir “as soon as possible”.

Jammu and Kashmir was stripped of special status under article 370 on August 5, 2019, and bifurcated into two Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. Since then Centre has repeatedly assured people of Jammu and Kashmir that statehood will be restored “at an appropriate time”. (KNO)

J&K witnessed historic turnaround, from violence to vibrancy: LG Sinha

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Lauding the concerted efforts of J&K Police and security forces to make the Union Territory terror-free, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday said that Jammu and Kashmir has left behind the dark chapter of terrorism and is steadily advancing on the path of peace, prosperity, and development.

Addressing the athletes participating in the 10th All India Police Judo Cluster here, LG Sinha, according to KNO said, “Terrorism is now on its last legs and counting its final breaths.”

He said, “I congratulate the Jammu and Kashmir Police and other security forces for their unwavering dedication and exemplary service. Their concerted efforts have tightened the noose around the entire ecosystem of terrorism, dismantling terror outfits and preventing infiltration attempts from across the Line of Control.”

He stated that terrorism is now “on its last legs and counting its final breaths,” adding that the prevailing peace and stability are the outcomes of the relentless commitment of the security forces.

Drawing a comparison with the national security scenario, the Lt Governor said, “In 2013, 126 areas in the country were affected by Naxalism. Today, that number has been reduced to just five. Similarly, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a historic turnaround — from violence to vibrancy.”

He said, “Intelligence-based kinetic operations and adopting a multifaceted approach to tackle internal security challenges have broken the back of the terror ecosystem.”

The Lieutenant Governor hailed the J&K Police force in building a fear-free environment for citizens.

Praising the Jammu and Kashmir Police for their multifaceted role, LG Sinha said, “The J&K Police is not only fighting terrorism, maintaining law and order, and protecting citizens, but is also a crucial agent of socio-economic development. It has ensured peace and a stable environment for industrial growth and the overall progress of the Union Territory.”

The Lt Governor lauded the police force for organizing sports tournaments and civic action programmes across the region, particularly in South Kashmir, to engage the youth positively and strengthen community ties.

“Sports keep the society united. It acts as a binding force that breaks barriers and promotes harmony. Every sports tournament sends a positive message, reflecting India’s unity in diversity,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor spoke about the transformative power of sports in uniting people and strengthening communities. He said sports foster a sense of collective identity, camaraderie, courage, character building, peace, equality and friendship, which contribute to the region’s social harmony.

He called upon the youth to develop qualities like compassion and courage, and dedicate their potential and talents in service to the nation.

“Sports is the universal language of unity and it promotes inclusivity and mutual respect. The sports events like All India Police Judo Cluster serves as a vibrant platform to celebrate Unity in Diversity and showcase India’s rich cultural and social heritage,” he said.

Reiterating the government’s commitment to sustaining peace and accelerating growth, the Lt Governor said the Union Territory is witnessing a new era marked by economic opportunities, youth empowerment, and social cohesion.

More than 2,000 athletes are participating in the championship comprising Judo, Wushu, Pencak Silat, Taekwondo and Karate, hosted by Jammu Kashmir Police.

DGP, Nalin Prabhat; S.J.M. Gillani, Special DG Coordination PHQ; ADGP Armed, Anand Jain; senior officials of Police and Civil Administration; representatives of various sports associations; prominent sports personalities, and youth in large numbers were present on the occasion. (KNO)

Woman dies day after childbirth at SDH Keller, family alleges medical negligence

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Tension gripped south Kashmir’s Shopian district after the death of a 27-year-old woman, who passed away a day after giving birth at the Sub-District Hospital (SDH) Keller.

The family of the deceased, identified as Shazia Akhter, wife of Waseem Ahmad Lone of Chowan Keller, has accused doctors of medical negligence and demanded strict action against those responsible.

The family members told KNO, that Shazia delivered a baby at the hospital on Wednesday and complained of severe pain on Thursday morning. “Despite our repeated pleas, doctors did not take her condition seriously. Within hours, her condition deteriorated, and she passed away,” a family member alleged, adding that her death was a result of “sheer negligence and lack of proper care.”

Following the incident, the grieving family and locals held a protest in the hospital premises, demanding an impartial inquiry and action against the concerned doctors.

The protesters further alleged that the Keller hospital suffers from a severe staff shortage and lacks basic medical facilities, putting patients’ lives at constant risk.

Reacting to the incident, the hospital administration denied the allegations of negligence, saying the woman’s death was due to a cardiac arrest. “The patient died of a sudden cardiac event, not due to any negligence from the medical staff,” an official from the hospital said.

Meanwhile, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), Shopian has constituted a four-member committee for investigation.

As per the official order, an enquiry committee of doctors has been constituted under the chairmanship of Dr M. Yousuf Naikoo, Block Medical Officer Shopian, to investigate the circumstances leading to Shazia’s death.

The committee includes Dr Samiullah Dar (Consultant Gynaecologist, CHC Zainapora), Dr Seth Mujtaba (Surgeon Specialist, District Hospital Shopian), and Dr Shabir Ahmad Langoo (Consultant Anesthesiologist, CHC Zainapora).

The committee has been tasked to examine all medical records, case sheets, and investigation reports related to the deceased, ascertain the sequence of events and the treatment protocols followed, determine the exact medical cause of death and identify any negligence or systemic failure, and recommend corrective measures.

The enquiry panel has been directed to submit its detailed report within three days. (KNO)

Case registered after viral video sparks outrage in Budgam

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: A case has been registered after a viral video showing a group of social media influencers driving vehicles across the green pastures along the Breinwar forests in Budgam, triggered widespread criticism online and calls for action against those involved in harming nature.

Officials confirmed to KNO that an FIR has been lodged at Police Station Chadoora under relevant sections of the Indian Forest Act, following a complaint filed by the Forest Department.

In this case, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Budgam, Dr. Bilal M. Bhat, while replying to a post on social media, said: “Action under relevant sections of IFA already initiated.”

The Forest Department, after verifying the authenticity of the viral video and confirming the location, submitted a formal complaint that led to the registration of the case.

The video showed the convoy of vehicles trampling through the meadows and moving off designated paths, drawing strong reactions from locals and environmental activists, who described the act as irresponsible in an ecologically sensitive area.

Range Officer Doodganga Chadoora, Zahoor Ali Khan, said an FIR has been registered and issued a clear warning to the public: “We appeal to everyone to desist from off-roading in the forest. Anyone found involved in such illegal activity in the future will be booked under relevant provisions of IFA. We are urging the general public to avoid activities that harm nature, and strict legal action will be taken against those violating these rules.”

Meanwhile, adventure enthusiasts have appealed to the authorities for the regularisation of rules, which would allow them to carry out off-road activities in designated areas under proper guidelines, without causing harm to sensitive ecological zones. (KNO)

FSD seizes 5 quintals of snacks, shuts down unit in Srinagar 

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: In a stringent move against unsafe food practices, the Food Safety Department (FSD) Thursday seized five quintals of namkeen snacks and sealed a snack manufacturing unit in Abhanshah, HMT area of Srinagar outskirts here.

The action comes amid rising concerns over substandard food items flooding markets.

According to the details available with KNO, a team of Food Safety Officers, led by the Assistant Commissioner of Food Safety Srinagar, conducted the inspection of a facility operating without a valid licence and found it in ‘unsanitary conditions’.

The seized consignment included popular items such as katlam, finni and other namkeen varieties. Samples from the haul were taken for further analytical testing to assess compliance with safety standards.

Similarly, the unit has been sealed immediately and barred from further production activities. A legal complaint invoking provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, along with relevant Rules & Regulations 2011, is being prepared for submission to the competent court.

Commissioner of Food & Drug Administration, Smitha Sethi, has issued a stern directive to all food business operators, cautioning them to strictly follow the FSS Act. Non-compliance will invite stringent legal action under applicable regulations. Moreover, consumers are encouraged to report suspicious or unsafe food products through the toll-free number 104

It is worth mentioning, this raid is part of an intensifying crackdown on unsafe and adulterated food items across Jammu & Kashmir.

Earlier, the Food Safety Department seized over 12,000 kg of rotten meat in just one week as part of parallel operations in Srinagar and surrounding districts. (KNO)

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