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Won’t compromise on statehood, will fight democratically, peacefully: CM Omar

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday he won’t make an compromise on the issue of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir and that his government’s struggle would remain rooted in democratic values and non-violence.

Addressing a gathering in Anantnag, as per KNO, CM Omar said he was prepared to protest but Ladakh situation in front of all and he would not accept “destruction, devastation and bloodshed” in the Valley.

“I will fight democratically and peacefully for the restoration of statehood. But I will not allow Kashmir to once again plunge into fire. Families here have already suffered enough and I do not want to see that cycle of grief return,” he said.

He also ruled out any political accommodation with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to achieve the objective. “If inclusion of BJP in the government will help restore statehood, then take my resignation and make any other MLA the Chief Minister, but I will not compromise,” he said.

He recalled that after the last assembly elections, he too had the option of aligning with the BJP. “Like Mufti Mohammad Sayeed and Mehbooba Mufti did in 2015 and 2016, I could have chosen to form government with the BJP. Forming govt with the BJP perhaps statehood would have come sooner. But I chose the other path, to keep BJP away from power in J&K. We may have to wait longer, but I will never allow them to enter government through us,” he said.

Responding to voices demanding protests for statehood, CM Omar drew a comparison with Ladakh. “In Ladakh, when people came out, firing started within an hour. Here in Kashmir, they won’t even wait that long – bullets will rain within ten minutes. I don’t want Kashmiri families to collapse under grief again. We will continue our fight, but democratically and peacefully,” he stressed.

He also reminded people that Ladakh, which had initially welcomed the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, 2019, has now admitted that it was the constitutional protection which safeguarded their interests. “We had said it then, and we say it now, whatever happened on August 5, 2019, was wrong,” he said.

He said that his government’s struggle for statehood would remain rooted in democratic values and non-violence. “We are not against development or governance, but statehood is our identity. We will not rest until it is restored and that too without surrendering our principles,” he said. (KNO)

Not only terror, J&K Police fighting drugs also; engaging youth through sports, other activities: DGP Prabhat

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat on Tuesday said that Jammu and Kashmir Police are not only combating terrorism and narcotics but also actively engaging youth through sports and rehabilitation initiatives.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the 20th J&K Police Martyr’s Memorial Football Tournament 2025 here the DGP, according to KNO highlighted the measures being taken by the police force, both on the security front and in social engagement.

Referring to the legacy of sacrifice within the force, the DGP said the tournament was held in memory of the 1,614 police personnel who have lost their lives in service. “Four personnel were killed this year in an operation in Kathua district. The families of the martyrs have received financial assistance, including ex-gratia and other relief through state and central schemes, banks, and police welfare funds,” he said.

“As part of the welfare measures,” the DGP said, “Each martyr’s family receives Rs 1 lakh in direct support and additional assistance for marriage of daughters and education of children, including support for private schooling up to Class 12.”

“Martyrs’ children also get access to free education in police public schools and scholarships for higher education including postgraduate, medical, and doctoral studies. In 2025, five family members of martyrs received appointment letters for government service,” he added.

The DGP said the police have also been organising sporting events regularly, including the upcoming cricket tournaments in Kathua and Kishtwar. Past initiatives include Jashn-e-Dal, Pedal for Peace, and Marathon Run for Peace, with a “Run for Fun” scheduled in Jammu. National-level tournaments hosted in recent years include All India Police Football, Hockey, and Water Sports Championships.

The police are also running 10 drug de-addiction centres across the Union Territory, treating over 200 inpatients this year alone.

DGP Prabhat said legal action continues against drug traffickers, but the force is equally focused on rehabilitation.

He said 981 students were sent this year on educational and cultural tours across the country, up from 781 last year, as part of efforts to expose youth to national progress and diversity.

Mentioning achievements in sports, he named several police athletes who have won medals in national and international competitions.

The DGP thanked officers involved in organising the tournament and acknowledged the Lieutenant Governor for continued support to the police.

“J&K Police is committed to its responsibilities. We will continue our work,” he said. (KNO)

Strictest action awaits those echoing narratives of Pak based terrorists: LG Sinha

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Warning that the strictest possible action under the law will be taken against the elements who speak in the language of Pakistan-based terror outfits or endorse their narrative, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday said that the J&K’s soil is soaked with the blood of martyrs who laid down their lives for the nation’s unity and integrity.

Addressing the closing ceremony of the 20th J&K Police Martyrs’ Memorial Football Tournament here, LG Sinha, according to KNO, paid glowing tributes to the sacrifices of J&K Police and other security personnel. “Those who speak the language of separatists and terrorists insult the sacrifices of martyrs and hurt their souls. They are being watched, and law will take its toughest course against them,” the LG said.

Highlighting the invaluable contribution of the J&K Police, LG Sinha said that 1.40 crore people of the Union Territory are living and breathing freely today because of the sacrifices of the police force and other security personnel. “No amount of money can compensate for the blood given by martyrs to secure J&K,” he said, adding that the J&K Police have earned a unique distinction across the country.

Lauding the role of sports in uniting communities, Sinha said football is not just a game but a “junoon” (passion) in the Valley, and such tournaments inspire the youth. He appreciated the civic action programmes of the police, which, he said, are mentoring young people and guiding them to lead from the front.

Reflecting on the transformation in J&K over the last 5–6 years, the LG said that the Union Territory has witnessed unprecedented development. “Peace is the cornerstone of progress, and J&K Police along with other security forces have ensured that the region continues to move forward on the path of growth,” he said.

Praising the younger generation, LG Sinha said J&K’s youth have proven their mettle in various fields and kept the Tiranga flying high.

He expressed confidence that the J&K Police will continue to act tough against enemies of peace and contribute to the vision of a Viksit Bharat. “Football brings all of us together,” he said, urging the youth to channel their passion, energy, and talent towards building a prosperous Jammu and Kashmir. (KNO)

Minister Javid Ahmad Dar reviews Horticulture sector, Assures redressal of Growers issues

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Cooperative & Election, Javid Ahmad Dar, on Tuesday convened a high-level review meeting with Presidents and office bearers of Fruit Associations from Kashmir Division at the Directorate of Horticulture Planning and Marketing.

Director Horticulture Planning and Marketing, Gh. Jeelani Zargar (JKAS), along with senior officers of the department, presented a detailed overview of ongoing initiatives, highlighting measures for post-harvest management, better market linkages, and enhanced marketing efficiency across Jammu and Kashmir.

Stakeholders raised pressing concerns, including the demand for more Controlled Atmosphere (CA) storage facilities, standardized packing material, hassle-free truck movement along highways, establishment of processing units, effective crop insurance, strengthening of the Market Intervention Scheme (MIS), promotion of e-NAM trading, and improved mandi operations.

The Minister assured growers and traders of timely redressal, stressing that issues beyond the Ministry’s scope will be taken up with higher authorities. He urged stakeholders to adopt modern, high-tech practices to boost J&K’s horticulture economy, moving beyond traditional methods.

The meeting ended on a positive note, with a collective pledge to strengthen resilience, sustainability, and growth in the Union Territory’s horticulture sector.

ECI to announce J&K bypolls alongside Bihar elections

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: The Election Commission of India (ECI) is set to announce by-elections for the Budgam and Nagrota assembly constituencies in Jammu & Kashmir, alongside the schedule for the Bihar polls.

In an official statement released today, the poll body announced the deployment of observers for Budgam and Nagrota—two seats currently lying vacant in the J&K Assembly. The move signals that the announcement of elections for these constituencies is imminent.

“The Election Commission of India has decided to deploy 470 officers (320 IAS, 60 IPS, and 90 from IRS/IRAS/ICAS, etc.) serving in various states as Central Observers (General, Police, and Expenditure) for the forthcoming general election to the legislative assembly of Bihar and bye-elections in Jammu & Kashmir (AC–Budgam & Nagrota), Rajasthan (AC–Anta), Jharkhand (AC–Ghatsila), Telangana (AC–Jubilee Hills), Punjab (AC–Tarn Taran), Mizoram (AC–Dampa), and Odisha (AC–Nuapada),” the statement reads, a copy of the statement is in possession of KNO.

The announcement of the Bihar election schedule is expected in the second week of October, following a visit by the three-member commission led by Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar to the state. Prior to this, the ECI is slated to hold a briefing in New Delhi on October 3 for the appointed general, police, and expenditure observers.

As far as political dynamics are concerned, the BJP and National Conference (NC) hold an upper hand in Budgam and Nagrota seats, respectively.

Nagrota is likely to witness a direct contest between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and National Conference-led alliance (NC).

Budgam, on the other hand, is expected to see a triangular battle involving NC, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Peoples Alliance for Change-a coalition comprising the Peoples Conference, Peoples Democratic Front, and Justice and Development Front (JDF). (KNO)

Panic in Aru: Rabid dog atacks three at famous tourist spot, Farm worker critical

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Fear gripped the famous tourist destination of Aru in south Kashmir’s Anantnag on Sunday after a rabid dog attacked three people, leaving a farm worker critically injured.

Eyewitnesses said the dog bit two locals and brutally mauled Riyaz Ahmad Ganie, a resident of Runipora, while he was harvesting red clover seed at the Fodder Seed Production Station (FSPS).

Ganie sustained deep injuries requiring 31 stitches and is battling for life at Mirza Mohammad Azafal Baig Memorial (MMABM) Hospital, Anantnag.

“Chaos erupted in the area as tourists and locals ran for safety. The dog kept chasing passersby, creating panic in the streets,” a resident said.

Hospital officials confirmed that all three victims received Anti-Rabies Vaccine (ARV). “Two patients are stable, while Riyaz Ahmad remains in critical condition under intensive treatment,” an MMABM doctor said.

Speaking to Kashmir Leader, FSPS Farm Manager Khursheed Ahmad Gilkar said: “At FSPS Aru, our dedication to agrostology goes beyond work—we pour our blood and soul into it. Today, in a tragic incident, our team member Riyaz Ahmad Ganie from Runipora was viciously attacked by a dog while collecting red clover flowers. The distressing event caused horrific wounds that required 31 stitches.”

When last reports reached, residents of Aru village managed to put down the rabid dog.

More details are awaited.

Keeping BJP out of power not a favour, but a promise: MP Ruhullah

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Supporting Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Member of Parliament (MP) from Srinagar, Aga Ruhullah Mehdi on Saturday said that preventing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) from coming to power in Jammu & Kashmir is not a favour, but a matter of upholding electoral promises.

“The people of Jammu and Kashmir have voted to keep the BJP out of power. This is not a favour to the region, but a commitment to your promises,” Mehdi, as per KNO said, responding to Omar Abdullah’s declaration that his government would not allow the BJP to come into power in the territory.

The MP criticised the 2019 decisions, saying the people were deceived and led to believe those moves favoured them, but they are now realising the truth. “Rights and the status of our region were taken away. The people of Ladakh have been peacefully demanding either re-merger with J&K or a Sixth Schedule status for the last five years, but their demands have been ignored,” he added.

Blaming the central government for the current situation in Ladakh, Mehdi accused Delhi’s leaders of neglecting the region’s aspirations. “The biggest culprits are the leaders in New Delhi who failed to listen and respect the demands of Ladakh’s people,” he said.

He called for peaceful protests and urged the people of Ladakh to continue their struggle through non-violent means. “Jammu and Kashmir will stand with them in their demands,” he assured.

Ruhullah reiterated that the demand for restoring statehood and special status remains alive, but the central government has shown little regard for these aspirations. “The situation in Ladakh reflects the feelings of the entire J&K population. It is vital to listen to the people’s demands to prevent any serious consequences for the nation,” he said. (KNO)

BSF closely monitors LoC with advanced tools, stops infiltration attempts: IG Yadav

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Inspector General of Border Security Force (BSF) Kashmir Frontier, Ashok Yadav, on Saturday said security forces along the Line of Control (LoC) are maintaining a high level of readiness to prevent any infiltration attempts by terrorists.

Speaking at the BSF headquarters in Humhama here during the unveiling of a T-shirt for the upcoming Wular Half Marathon 2.0 on October 12, 2025, Yadav, as per KNO, said the BSF has made its highest efforts to secure the border areas.

“The BSF is working closely with the Indian Army to monitor the LoC effectively and has successfully stopped two infiltration attempts so far this year,” he said, adding that the use of advanced surveillance tools and equipment has strengthened the security presence along the border.

According to Yadav, infiltration attempts tend to rise in the period leading up to winter when harsh weather conditions make crossing more difficult.

He said terrorists try to cross the border before snowfall blocks the mountain passes, which usually happens by November. “With two months remaining before winter fully sets in, security agencies are anticipating possible attempts and have prepared accordingly,” he added.

The IG further outlined the challenges associated with the upcoming winter months, highlighting the continued presence of terrorist training camps across the border. These camps, located opposite sectors such as Bandipora, Kupwara, and Baramulla, are under close observation, he said.

Yadav said the forces are monitoring these activities carefully to prevent any disturbances to peace in the area.

Regarding changes in infiltration tactics, the IGP BSF said terrorists are now minimising their communication to evade detection. This, he said, has made intelligence gathering more complex. “However, agencies are carefully analysing every piece of information, which assists in tracking terrorists and uncovering their hideouts,” he added.

The IG said BSF has implemented a layered security approach that includes tools such as thermal imaging, ground sensors, night patrols, and coordinated operations with the Army. This cooperation among different forces has enhanced their ability to respond swiftly and effectively to any infiltration bids, he said.

Meanwhile, the BSF, in a statement, said the Kashmir Frontier will host the “Save Wular Run with Borderman” marathon on October 12, 2025, as part of its environmental preservation initiative.

The event aims to promote environmental awareness, strengthen ties with the local community, and encourage youth to focus on constructive activities.

The T-shirt for the marathon was unveiled at the Hangul Officer’s Institute, BSF Frontier HQ Humhama, in the presence of senior officials, including IG Ashok Yadav, IG Shashank Anand, IG Soloman Minz, and ADG Satish S Khandare.

The marathon will feature 5 km, 10 km, and 21.1 km races, open to all participants, with free registration already underway. Around 3,000 runners from across the country, especially the Kashmir Valley, are expected to take part.

The BSF added that the event will help identify local talent and sponsor them under the Khelo India scheme for further training and participation in national and international competitions. (KNO)

Day after Wangchuk’s detention, Ladakh admin constitutes advisory board for detention laws including NSA

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: A day after detention of environmentalist and educationist, Sonam Wangchuk under the National Security Act (NSA), the administration of Union Territory Ladakh has constituted an advisory board for all detention laws including the NSA.

As per KNO, the administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh today constituted advisory board under the Ladakh Public Safety Act, 1978, the Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1988 and Prevention of Black Marketing and Maintenance of Supplies of Essential Commodities Act, 1980.

The Board has been constituted in consultation with the Chief Justice, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh,

According to a notification, Justice M. K. Hanjura (retired High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh) has been appointed as its chairperson while Manoj Parihar (Principal District & Sessions Judge, Leh) and Spalzes Angmo (Principal District & Sessions Judge, Kargil) as its members.

Meanwhile, in another notification, the government ordered that this Board shall also function as advisory board

“In exercise of the powers conferred by Section 9 read with Section 2(e) of the National Security Act, 1980 (Act No. 65 of 1980), the Administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh hereby directs that the Advisory Boards constituted under the Union Territory of Ladakh Public Safety Act, 1978 (Act No. VI of 1978), Prevention of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1988 and the Prevention of Black Marketing and Maintenance of Supplies of Essential Commodities Act, 1980, shall also function as the Advisory Board for the purposes of the National Security Act, 1980,” reads the notification.

Under these laws, the Advisory Board is required to opine on whether there is sufficient cause for the detention of a person. In any case where the Advisory Board reports that, in its opinion, there is no sufficient cause for the detention of the person concerned, the Government shall revoke the detention order and ensure the person’s immediate release. (KNO)

Sajad Lone accuses government of diverting GMC Handwara funds to GMC Udhampur

Kashmir Leader Desk
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Srinagar: Peoples Conference president and MLA Handwara, Sajad Gani Lone, has accused the Jammu and Kashmir government of diverting Rs 55 crore allocated for the Government Medical College (GMC) Handwara to GMC Udhampur.

Addressing a hurriedly convened news conference in Kupwara on Saturday evening, Lone, as per KNO, expressed deep concern over what he described as a deliberate attempt to undermine the development of medical infrastructure in Kashmir.

“I have come to know that Rs 55 crore approved for GMC Handwara has been diverted to GMC Udhampur,” Lone said.

This marks the first major allegation of regional fund diversion since the formation of the elected government in Jammu and Kashmir.

Lone further accused the NC-led government of intentionally stalling the GMC Handwara project by creating unnecessary controversy over the location of the hostel and administrative buildings.

“They want people to fight over the location. Their real intention is to scuttle the project,” he said. “They want the funds to lapse. This money has already lapsed twice.”

He criticized the government for failing to finalize the site for the GMC hostel and office buildings, despite having had nearly a year to do so.

“Was there any problem before the formation of the government? Did we interfere in finalizing the location?” Lone asked. (KNO)

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