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Srinagar Police attach property worth Rs 2 Cr under UAPA

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: In a significant step towards dismantling Terror networks and their support structures, Srinagar Police on Saturday attached a three-storey residential house in HMT area of Srinagar.

Police spokesman in a statement issued to KNO said that the residential house is constructed over 15 marlas of land (Survey No. 43 min, Estate Khushipora), located at Rose Avenue, HMT.

“The property, valued at approximately Rs 2 Crore, stands recorded in the name of Ghulam Mohammad Sheikh S/o Khawja Anwar Sheikh, father of designated terrorist *Sajad Ahmad Sheikh @ Sajad Gul* , as per revenue records and verification from Tehsildar Central, Shalteng, Srinagar,” it reads.

The attachment has been executed in connection with FIR No. 235/2022 under sections 13, 38, 20 UAPA and 2/3 EIMCO Act, registered at Police Station Parimpora.

Police in a statement also said, “Proceedings were initiated under Section 25 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), empowering authorities to attach properties used or intended to be used for terrorist activities. The action was carried out in the presence of the concerned Executive Magistrate.”

“Though the property is registered in the name of the terrorist’s father, investigation has revealed that Sajad Gul is an active stakeholder. He has been involved in facilitating terrorism, running anti-national propaganda, and inciting disaffection against the Government through various online and social media platforms,” it reads.

It also said, “This attachment forms part of the ongoing strategy of Srinagar Police to disrupt the financial, logistical, and operational networks of terrorism, including their cross-border sponsors and sympathizers.”

“The action sends a clear message that individuals or entities aiding terrorism will face strict legal consequences, including the forfeiture of illegally acquired assets,” police said.

Meanwhile, Srinagar Police reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to uphold the rule of Law, protect Peace and Public order. (KNO)

5 booked in fake NHM selection list Scam in Kashmir: CBK

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: The Crime Branch Kashmir (Economic Offences Wing) on Saturday has registered a case after receiving a communication from the State Nodal Officer, National Health Mission (NHM) J&K, alleging circulation of a fake order purported to be issued by the Mission Director, NHM, J&K.

In a handout, the CBK said that the fraudulent order, titled “Provisional Selection List of Candidates for Different Posts (Kashmir Division) against Notification No. SHS/NHM/J&K/HR/10259 dated 10.05.2021”, was found to be forged and was being circulated through social media platforms, causing confusion among the public. Following the complaint, a preliminary probe was initiated at Police Station Crime Branch Kashmir (now Economic Offences Wing).

During the investigation, it surfaced that during the COVID-19 pandemic, an NGO namely J&K Health Care Services was approved by the Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir, vide No. DHSK/JKHCS/2020-21/6466 dated 22.03.2021, for providing voluntary manpower in various medical blocks of Kashmir to overcome the shortage of staff.

However, the management members of the said NGO, under a well-planned conspiracy, took undue advantage of this approval. They fraudulently approached volunteers, obtained their documents on the pretext of securing permanent engagement under NHM, and also collected money from them. Subsequently, they prepared a fake selection list by forging the signatures of the Mission Director, NHM J&K.

The accused persons have been identified as Abdul Qayoom Naik, S/o Abdul Aziz Naik, R/o Check Feroz Pora, Tangmarg, Abdul Qayoom Khan, S/o Gull Mohammad Khan, R/o Harwan A/P Ompora, Budgam, Mohammad Ashraf Hurrah, S/o Ghulam Nabi Hurrah, R/o Saria Bala, Srinagar, Mushtaq Ahmad Sofi, S/o Mohammad Sultan Sofi, R/o Shadipora, Sumbal, Bandipora and Hilal Ahmad Bahar, S/o Mohammad Sidiq Bahar, R/o Shadipora, Sumbal, Bandipora.

Their acts prima facie disclose commission of offences punishable under sections 420, 468, 471, 120-B RPC read with Section 66-D of the IT Act. Accordingly, cognizance has been taken and a formal case has been registered at Police Station Economic Offences Wing (Crime Branch Kashmir). (GNS)

Seven years on, Pulwama’s proposed maternity hospital still a distant dream

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: More than seven years have passed since the government identified land for the construction of a 100-bed maternity hospital in Pulwama, but the project remains confined to papers, leaving residents disillusioned and women patients struggling for facilities.

According to officials, around 112 kanals of land were identified at Sirnoo, on the outskirts of Pulwama town, for the hospital that was meant to address the growing healthcare needs of women in Pulwama and neighbouring Shopian districts. However, beyond the installation of a notice board at the site, no progress has been made.

“It was a long-pending demand of the people of Pulwama and Shopian to have a dedicated maternity hospital. Such a facility would have reduced referrals to Srinagar hospitals or MCH Anantnag, but it seems the project has been abandoned midway,” a health official told KNO.

Locals expressed strong resentment over the delay, saying they have been approaching authorities for years, but their pleas have gone unheard.

“After repeated representations, land at Sirnoo was finalised with assurances that work would start soon. But seven years down the line, there is no progress,” said Jahangeer Ahmad, a resident of Pulwama.

He added that the absence of a dedicated maternity hospital forces women patients to travel either to Srinagar or private clinics, leading to unnecessary delays and extra financial burden.

“Earlier, the government had proposed the hospital at Chandgam, but since it was too far from town, protests were held, and the current location at Sirnoo was identified. Yet, nothing has changed on the ground,” he said.

Residents believe the hospital would not only save time and money but also ease the rush at Srinagar’s Lal Ded Hospital. “We request the higher authorities to intervene and ensure work begins without further delay so that locals can finally heave a sigh of relief,” they said.

Even the District Development Council (DDC) Pulwama had passed a resolution in favour of constructing the maternity hospital, but the matter continues to linger.

Meanwhile, an official said that the proposal has been forwarded to higher authorities but has not received administrative approval yet. “The project is under active consideration of the government, and hopefully it will be approved soon,” he maintained.

However, in a contradictory statement, the government recently told the Assembly that “there is no proposal before the government for the construction of a 100-bedded maternity hospital at Sirnoo, Pulwama”.

This discrepancy has further deepened the uncertainty, leaving the much-needed project in limbo and the people of south Kashmir waiting for what they call “a basic necessity, not a luxury”. (KNO)

Timely rains brighten outlook for Kashmir’s saffron crop

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: After a disappointing saffron season in 2024, when production dropped drastically due to lack of rainfall, Kashmir’s saffron growers are finally hopeful of a revival this year.

Adequate showers during the crucial growth phase in September have raised expectations of a significantly better harvest in Pampore and its adjoining saffron belts.

Speaking to KNO, farmers said the crop is showing visible signs of recovery, with healthier bulbs and longer soil moisture retention.

“Last year was devastating; flowers hardly bloomed. But this season looks promising. If we get one more spell of rain, the yield may reach 80 per cent, which will be a blessing for us,” said Abdul Majeed Wani, president of the Kashmir Saffron Growers Association.

Growers in Pampore, famously known as the “saffron town of Kashmir”, share similar optimism as they said that plants look much healthier this year, and the bloom is likely to be stronger.”

Another farmer, Ashiq Hussian from Chandhara, said, “Even if the production reaches 70-80 per cent, it will give us some relief after many bad seasons.”

However, the optimism comes with underlying worries. Saffron cultivation in Kashmir has been steadily declining, with farmers struggling against climate change, reduced irrigation, and, most alarmingly, the smuggling of saffron corms — the very foundation of the crop.

Just two months ago, police and agriculture officials in Awantipora foiled a major attempt to smuggle 1.5 quintals of saffron corms outside the Valley.

Experts say such practices severely harm local farming by creating shortages during the planting season.

“Saffron is not just an economic crop but part of our cultural identity. If corm smuggling continues, our heritage is at stake,” they said.

Government data reflects the challenges: production fell from 17.33 MT in 2021 to 14.87 MT in 2022, and marginally improved to 14.94 MT in 2023 and in 2024 it was just around 30 per cent of the normal production.

While initiatives under the National Mission on Saffron have helped rejuvenate some fields, experts caution that these gains are undermined when corms are illegally siphoned off.

They demanded intervention of the government to make irrigation facilities functional and take steps for the revival of this project. (KNO)

Use cough syrups in Children hospitals rationally: Union Health Ministry advises States, UTs

Kashmir Leader Desk
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New Delhi: The Union Health Ministry has issued an advisory to all States and Union Territories on the rational use of cough syrups in the paediatric population, cautioning against their use in children under two years of age.

According to the advisory, a copy of which is in the possession of KNO, “Most acute cough-related illnesses in children are self-limiting and tend to resolve without medication. It emphasizes that cough and cold syrups should not be prescribed or dispensed to children below two years. For children under five years, their use is generally not recommended, and for older children, administration should be based only on clinical evaluation under strict medical supervision.”

The Health Ministry has stressed that, where required, cough syrups should be prescribed in the lowest effective dose and for the shortest duration possible, while avoiding multiple drug combinations.

Instead, the advisory recommends non-pharmacological measures—such as adequate hydration, rest, and supportive care—as the first line of treatment.

“All healthcare facilities and clinical establishments must ensure procurement and dispensing of cough syrup products manufactured under Good Manufacturing Practices and formulated with pharmaceutical-grade excipients,” the advisory stated. It also directed state and district health authorities to sensitize doctors, pharmacists, and dispensers—both in public and private sectors—on rational prescribing practices.

Dr. Sunita Sharma, Director General of Health Services (DGHS) called for its immediate implementation and dissemination across government dispensaries, Primary Health Centres (PHCs), Community Health Centres (CHCs), district hospitals, and medical institutions across the country.

The move comes amid growing concerns worldwide about the misuse of paediatric cough syrups and potential adverse effects, especially in very young children. (KNO)

Steps taken by PM Modi paved way for India to become self-reliant: Amit Shah

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Stating that if the work done in the last 11 years had been undertaken after Independence then India would never have faced the problem of unemployment, Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Friday said that the steps taken by Prime Minister Modi led regime have paved the way for the country to become self-reliant.

Addressing the ‘Khadi Karigar Mahotsav’ event at Rohtak, Shah, according to KNO said, “Mahatma Gandhi had used khadi during the country’s freedom movement to remove poverty and make the country self reliant.”

Taking a dig at the Congress he said, “The Congress forgot khadi after Independence while PM Modi led dispensation revived it. They (Congress) did not pay attention to Khadi and did nothing for its promotion.”

Shah said, “The turnover of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission has increased to Rs 1.70 lakh crore now from Rs 33,000 crore in 2014-15. Many companies in the country do not have such a big turnover.”

He said the beginning made by Mahatma Gandhi on khadi transformed the lives of lakhs of weavers in the country.

The ‘khadi mantra’ given by Mahatma Gandhi gave momentum to the freedom movement, he noted.

Shah said when Modi was Gujarat chief minister, he resolved to revive Khadi.

“Later, as Prime Minister, Modi, through his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ programme, gave the message to the citizens to use Khadi. And see the result, Shah said referring to the turnover of the Khadi and Village Industries Commission now. A good system of khadi’s marketing and packaging was made and people were inspired,” he said.

When we wear khadi, it is not just a dress, but a feeling of ‘swadeshi’ and ‘Atmanirbharta’, Shah said. (KNO)

Rajya Sabha polls: BJP leadership to meet tomorrow at Jammu

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: The Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) election committee will hold a meeting on Saturday morning in Jammu to discuss the upcoming Rajya Sabha polls scheduled for October 24.

Sources told KNO that the party’s election committee will convene tomorrow at the party headquarters in Jammu to strategize for the upcoming Rajya Sabha elections.

The meeting will also be attended by Tarun Chugh, BJP National General Secretary and in-charge for J&K, who is expected to arrive in Jammu late tonight.

The sources said that the party will discuss its overall strategy for the polls.

“The party will deliberate on whether to contest the election for the first two seats, which the ruling alliance is expected to win comfortably, or to field a candidate for only one seat, for which a combined election will take place,” they said, adding that the names of probable candidates may also be discussed.

They added that feedback from the meeting will be sent to the party high command, which will finalize the candidate.

Sources disclosed that BJP spokesperson Advocate Sunil Sethi, former state president Ravinder Raina, and former Deputy Chief Minister Nirmal Singh are frontrunners for the seat that the BJP is in a strong position to win. (KNO)

J&K higher reaches receive season’s first snowfall, light rains in plains

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Several higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday experienced the season’s first snowfall, while plains, including Srinagar, the summer capital of the region, received light rainfall in the morning.

The season’s first snowfall was recorded in Sinthan Top area of Kishtwar, Affarwat and Sunshine peaks of Gulmarg today.

The weatherman, as per KNO has predicted a brief spell of light rain till tomorrow afternoon amid the cloudy weather conditions. According to him, light to moderate rain, thunder and gusty winds are expected towards late evening.

Director Meteorological department, Dr Mukhtar Ahmad, in a detailed forecast, has mentioned that the weather is expected to remain generally cloudy from October 5 to October 7, saying that intermittent spells of light to moderate rain, thunder, gusty winds are expected, while the higher reaches may experience light to moderate snow.

He said that heavy to very heavy rain is expected at a few places of Jammu division and moderate to heavy rain over isolated places of Kashmir division on October 6.

The director further said that a brief spell of light rain is expected at a few places on October 8, adding that the weather would remain generally dry from October 9 to 14.

Earlier, an advisory was issued, which stated that under the influence of a strong western disturbance, Jammu and Kashmir is likely to receive a three-day wet spell from Saturday evening, while the higher reaches of the region are expected to experience the season’s first snowfall.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a weather advisory, forecasting a strong western disturbance, expected to impact Jammu and Kashmir and adjoining areas from October 4 (Saturday).

The IMD warned that adverse weather conditions could lead to significant disruptions in surface transport, particularly along key routes such as the Jammu-Srinagar and Srinagar-Leh National Highways, as well as other roads in the middle and higher reaches.

There is also a possibility of moderate to severe thunderstorms and lightning, which may be accompanied by strong gusty winds at multiple locations.

The probable impacts also include the possibility of landslides, mudslides and shooting stones in vulnerable areas.

The advisory has urged farmers across the region to suspend all farming operations between October 5 and 7 to prevent potential damage to crops and equipment.

With heavy rainfall expected over a short duration, authorities anticipate a rise in water levels in rivers, local streams and nallas, which could lead to waterlogging in low-lying areas.

Moreover, the district administration Srinagar has issued an advisory, advising people living near the Left and Right Banks of the River Jhelum, including its tributaries and flood channels, as well as nallahs, to stay away from water bodies due to potential safety hazards.

The administration has specifically warned tourists, local Shikara Wallas and sand miners at Dal Lake and River Jhelum not to attempt crossing water bodies without verifying conditions.

For any emergencies, the public can contact the District Emergency Operation Centre Srinagar and the Police Control Room at the following numbers: DEOC Srinagar Landlines 0194-2457543, 0194-2483651, 0194-2457552 WhatsApp Helplines 9103998355, 9103998356 & 9103998357 Police Control Room Srinagar 0194-2477567.

The advisory, issued by the Additional Deputy Commissioner and CEO, DDMA Srinagar, emphasises that the public must adhere to instructions from district authorities to ensure their safety during the forecasted weather conditions.

Authorities, including the Municipal Corporation, Police, SDRF, Transport, PHE, Power Department, and emergency services, have been alerted and instructed to remain prepared.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah chaired a high-level meeting at the Civil Secretariat to review the preparedness of various departments in view of the weather advisory issued by the Meteorological Centre.

The Chief Minister said all concerned departments must remain in a state of full readiness to minimise possible damage to fruit crops, ensure uninterrupted supply of essential services and keep all major roads and highways functional during the weather disturbance.

Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Anshul Garg, convened an urgent meeting with officials from key departments to review preparedness and the mitigation plan.

During the meeting, the Divisional Commissioner instructed concerned departments to ensure the immediate deployment of personnel and machinery at critical locations to facilitate swift snow clearance.

He stressed the importance of completing the tendering process for the winter snow clearance plan by October 31 and directed the deployment of trained and experienced machinery operators to avoid damage to road infrastructure. (KNO)

‘Operation Sindoor’: Pakistan lost 12 military aircraft, including 4 to 5 F-16 jets: Air Chief Marshal

Kashmir Leader Desk
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New Delhi: Terming Pakistan claims about it destroying Indian jets during ‘Operation Sindoor’ as “manohar kahaniyan (fascinating tales)” Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A P Singh on Friday said that at least a dozen Pakistani military aircraft, including F-16 jets were destroyed or damaged in Indian strikes.

While talking to reporters here the Air Chief Marshal, according to KNO outlined the extensive losses suffered by Pakistan during the strikes carried out by the Indian military to avenge the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that left 26 civilians, mostly tourists dead. “Indian strikes hit radars at least four places, command and control centres at two places, runways of course damaged at two places, then three of their hangars in three different stations were damaged.”

“We have signs of one C-130 class of aircraft…and at least one dozen military aircrafts, including 4 to 5 F-16 jets, because that place happened to be F-16 with whatever was under maintenance at that time,” he added.

The Air Force Chief Marshal said, “Along with that, one SAM system was destroyed. We have clear evidence of one long-range strike, which I talked about more than 300 km, which happened to be either an AEW&C or a SIGINT aircraft. Along with that, five high-tech fighters between F-16 and JF-17 class—this is what our system tells us.”

He said that during Operation Sindoor, the IAF’s advanced long-range surface-to-air missiles (SAMs) prevented Pakistan from operating even within its own territory up to a certain range.

MOCKS ISLAMABAD’S CLAIM

While mocking Islamabad’s claim that it had downed Indian jets Singh said, “If they think they downed our 15 jets, I hope they are convinced about it and they will cater for 15 less aircraft in my inventory when they come to fight again.”

The IAF chief said India entered into conflict with Pakistan in May this year with a clear goal and ended it quickly after achieving its objectives. “This should serve as a lesson for the world, as many other ongoing wars have no end in sight,” he added.

“A clear directive, clear mandate was given to the Indian Armed Forces. It stands as a lesson which will go down in history that this is one war that was started with a very clear objective and it was terminated in a quick time without just prolonging it,” he said.

“We are seeing what is happening in the world, the two wars that are going on, there’s no talk about termination. But we could make them (Pakistan) reach a stage where they ask for a ceasefire, ask for termination of hostilities. And also, we took a call as a nation to terminate those hostilities because our own objectives were met. I think this is something that the world needs to learn from us,” Singh said.

The Air Chief Marshal said, “Wars will not be like before. We need to be prepared for current and future challenges with an integrated approach involving all services and agencies.”

“Self-reliance remains a central goal for the IAF. The Indian Air Force has placed orders for the LCA Mk1A, with development continuing on the LCA Mk2 and Indian Multi-Role Helicopter projects,” he said.

The IAF Chief said that several radars and systems are also being developed domestically.

He also spoke about successful joint exercises with countries like the UAE, Egypt, France, and Singapore, with foreign commanders showing interest in continuing these drills.

Sharing details about the forthcoming 93rd Air Force Day that will feature a parade at Hindon Air Base on October 8 with full rehearsal on October 6, Singh said, “A special flypast will include a Mi-17 helicopter carrying the Operation Sindoor flag. Static displays will present Rafale and Su-30 MKI fighters, transport aircraft, the Akash missile system, radars, and other equipment.”

“We’re showcasing 18 innovations that reflect the IAF’s drive for self-reliance and solutions-focused thinking. We’ve also played a key role in humanitarian operations across multiple Indian states this year,” he added. (KNO)

Pak risks losing place on world map if it continues to sponsor terrorism: Army Chief 

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Warning Pakistan that it risks losing place on the world map if it continues to sponsor terrorism, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Friday said that India will not exercise the restraint it had shown during ‘Operation Sindoor 1.0.’

Addressing a press conference ahead of the Air Force Day parade at Anupgarh in Jaipur, General Dwivedi, according to KNO said, “India, as a country, is fully prepared this time. And this time, it will not show the restraint that it exhibited during Operation Sindoor 1.0.

This time we will take a step forward and act in a manner that will make Pakistan think whether it wants to remain on the world map or not.”

Asking soldiers to remain prepared, the Army Chief said, “Keep yourselves fully prepared now, if god wants, the opportunity will come soon.”

General Dwivedi said that ‘Operation Sindoor’ exposed terrorist hideouts deep inside Pakistan. “India has given evidence to the world. Had we not unearthed this proof, Pakistan would have hidden all of it,” he said, adding, “Entire world stood with India when we launched Operation Sindoor to avenge April 22 Pahalgam terror.”

He said the Indian military hit nine targets inside Pakistan, of which seven were hit by the Army and two by the Air Force.

“We had identified the targets because we only wanted to harm the terrorists. We had aimed to strike their bases. We have no complaints against ordinary Pakistani citizens, so long as their country does not sponsor terrorists. Because terrorists were being sponsored, those terrorist targets were hit,” General Dwivedi said.

Replying to a question about his appeal to those living near the international border, he said, “We consider the border population not as ordinary civilians but as soldiers. That means they stand shoulder to shoulder with us in the battle. This is crucial because the coming struggle is the nation’s struggle, not just the Army’s.”

The Army chief said history bears witness that during the 1965 and 1971 wars, ordinary citizens stood shoulder to shoulder with the soldiers. “We would want them to join us in the days ahead as well. I want to thank them — their zeal boosts the morale of our soldiers,” he said.

Earlier General Dwivedi visited forward areas including Bikaner Military Station to review the operational readiness of troops.

“During the visit he interacted with senior military leadership, veterans, civil dignitaries and soldiers, reiterating the Army’s focus on modernisation, combat preparedness, strengthening technological capabilities and operational excellence,” an Army statement said.

“The COAS felicitated veterans Lt Col Hem Singh Shekhawat (Retd), Lt Col Birbal Bishnoi (Retd), Risaldar Bhanwar Singh (Retd) and Hav Nakat Singh (Retd) for their valuable contributions towards nation building,” it added.

“He also interacted with all ranks, emphasising the rapidly evolving nature of warfare and the Army’s commitment to integrating UAS and counter-UAS technologies across the operational spectrum to enhance adaptability and preparedness against emerging threats,” the statement said.

Addressing the formation, including veterans of Bikaner, the Chief Of Army Staff (COAS) commended the troops for their dedication, steadfast commitment to duty and effective multi-agency coordination, while operating in the demanding desert and semi-desert terrain. He highlighted the importance of technology absorption at all levels to sustain high operational readiness.

“The COAS further underscored that the current complex security environment demands seamless synergy between the Armed Forces, government agencies, industry, academia and society, adopting a Whole-of-Nation approach to defence preparedness. He also highlighted the significance of Military-Civil Fusion and lauded the contribution of veterans in strengthening India’s defence preparedness and battlefield dominance,” it added. (KNO)

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