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Prez calls Kishtwar incident ‘extremely tragic’, PM Modi assures assistance

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Srinagar: President of India, Droupadi Murmu Thursday condoled the loss of lives due to the cloudburst in Kishtwar while Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his prayers with all the affected people.

According to KNO, the President said that news of several deaths due to a cloudburst in Kishtwar is extremely tragic.

“The news of several deaths due to a cloudburst in Kishtwar, Jammu-Kashmir, is extremely tragic. I express my heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and pray for the success of relief and rescue operations,” Murmu said.

The Prime Minister has assured all possible assistance to those in need. “My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the cloudburst and flooding in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir. The situation is being monitored closely. Rescue and relief operations are underway. Every possible assistance will be provided to those in need,” Narendra Modi wrote on X.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah expressed concern over the cloudburst in Kishtwar district, which triggered flash floods along the route of the Shree Machail Mata Yatra.

In a post on X, the Home Minister said he had spoken with the Lieutenant Governor and Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, affirming the central government’s commitment to providing all necessary assistance.

“The local administration is conducting relief and rescue operations. NDRF teams have promptly been rushed to the site. We are closely monitoring the situation and stand firmly with the people of Jammu and Kashmir through every situation. Assured of all possible assistance to the people in need,” he said.

The cloudburst struck the Chashoti area in the Padder region of Kishtwar, resulting in flash floods that have severely impacted the pilgrimage route of the Shree Machail Mata Yatra. This annual yatra, which started on July 25 and is scheduled to continue until September 5, attracts thousands of devotees to the revered Chandi Mata Mandir in Machail, Paddar Valley.

Furthermore, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh expressed pain over the loss of lives. “Deeply pained by the tragic loss of lives in the Kishtwar cloudburst, J&K. My heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones. Praying for the speedy recovery of the injured,” Rajnath wrote.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has said that the rescue and relief operations at Chashoti are in full swing. “Men and machinery have been put at the site. Other teams have also been rushed and briefed by the Hon’ble Union Home Minister, Sh. Amit Shah Ji on rescue & relief Ops by various agencies. He has assured all possible assistance,” Office of J&K, LG wrote.

He also assured all the affected families. He said that the Air Force has also been alerted for evacuation, and the Government will stand shoulder to shoulder with the families in this hour of crisis.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah decided to cancel the “At Home” tea party on Friday evening. The decision has been taken in wake of the tragedy caused by cloudburst in Kishtwar.

In a post on X, Omar Abdullah wrote that they have also decided to cancel the cultural events during the Independence Day celebrations tomorrow.

“In light of the tragedy caused by the cloud burst in Kishtwar I have taken the decision to cancel the “At Home” tea party tomorrow evening. We have also decided not to go ahead with the cultural events during the morning Independence Day celebrations. The formal events – speech, march past etc will go ahead as planned,” Omar Abdullah wrote.

Leader of Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi has termed the incident as “extremely tragic” and called on the administration to expedite operations while urging Congress workers to assist on the ground.

Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Ghulam Nabi Azad urged the government to ensure urgent rescue and relief.

“Deeply saddened by the cloudburst in Chositi, Kishtwar. Heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families & prayers for the speedy recovery of the injured. Urge the govt to immediately carry out rescue & relief operations &ensure all possible assistance & treatment for those affected,” Azad said.

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President, Mehbooba Mufti extended condolences to the bereaved families.

“Extremely tragic news coming from Padder, Kishtwar, where a massive cloudburst has claimed several lives. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayers for the departed souls. May God give strength and support to those affected in this difficult time,” she wrote.

Leader of Opposition in Legislative Assembly and concerned MLA, Sunil Sharma said that he has spoken to the Lt Governor Manoj Sinha and Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh to assess the situation.

“Deeply distressed to learn about the devastating cloudburst in the Chositi area of Padder, which may lead to significant loss of life.I have just spoken with LG @manojsinha_ Ji and @DrJitendraSingh Ji to assess the situation. NDRF teams and helicopters are being mobilized to the site at the earliest. Efforts are underway to evaluate the damage and coordinate rescue and medical operations. I am en route to the location to personally oversee the response and ensure that all necessary measures are taken,” Sunil Sharma wrote on X.

M Y Tarigami, CPI (M) leader and MLA Kulgam has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives.

Calling it a “deeply sad moment for all,” Tarigami said the tragedy, which left several dead and many injured, demands an immediate and coordinated response. “The government should announce compensation for the deceased without delay, ensure proper treatment for the injured, and expedite rescue operations,” he said.

Peoples Conference (PC) Chairman and MLA Handwara, Sajad Gani Lone in a post on X, has extended condolences to the bereaved families.

“Bad news coming in from Kishtawar sector. There has been a cloudburst and reportedly there are some fatalities. My condolences to the bereaved families. May they rest in peace,” he wrote.

Apni Party President, Syed Altaf Bukhari expressed shock and said this is a tragedy beyond words.

“Shocked and deeply grieved by the news of at least 10 lives lost in a massive cloudburst in Chishoti village, Padder area of Kishtwar district. This is a tragedy beyond words. In this hour of unimaginable pain and sorrow, Apni Party stands in solidarity with all those who have lost their loved ones. May the Almighty grant them the strength to endure this immense loss, and may the departed souls rest in eternal peace,” Altaf Bukhari wrote. (KNO)

Cloudburst hits Kishtwar; 50 dead, 200 missing, 120 injured  

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Srinagar: A massive cloudburst hit Kishtwar district on Thursday leaving at least 50 persons dead and 120 injured. Over 200 people are reported missing.

According to the details available with KNO the cloudburst hit Chasothi area in Kishtwar this afternoon.

An official said, “The rescue operations were launched immediately and the death toll could rise as many people remained displaced. Massive search efforts are underway.”

Following the cloudburst the flash flood struck the Chashoti area in Kishtwar, a key point along the route of the annual Machail Mata Yatra. The pilgrimage, which began on July 25 and is scheduled to continue until September 5, draws thousands of devotees each year to the revered Chandi Mata temple in Machail, located in the remote Paddar Valley.

“So far, 50 bodies have been recovered. Nearly 120 are injured, and around 200 are still missing. Rescue teams are facing difficulty due to damaged roads, but operations are continuing round the clock,” the official said, adding that the property worth crores including vehicles and residential structures have been damaged.

Officials said the disaster washed away 10 houses, four temples, four government offices, and a bridge that was crowded with pilgrims.

“Joint rescue efforts are being carried out by the Civil Administration, Police, Army, National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), with a focus on tracing the missing and providing treatment to the injured,” they added.

“Efforts are also underway to restore access routes and bring additional medical teams and supplies to the affected area,” they said.

Meanwhile, Indian Army soldiers from the 16th Corps have been mobilized for rescue and relief operations, officials said. Additionally, the Air Force has been placed on alert for evacuation efforts.

DIG Shridhar Patil of the Doda-Kishtwar-Ramban Range said his message to the people is to remain calm and to call the helpline numbers if any relative or family member is missing. He assured them that they will ensure their safe return.

Army joins rescue operation

The Army has joined the relief and rescue operation at the cloudburst-hit Chisoti village in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district, where at least 50 people have died and over 200 are missing.

“In the aftermath of a cloudburst at the Chisoti village in Kishtwar, troops of the White Knight swiftly mobilised for relief and rescue operations,” a Jammu-based Army PRO said.

The efforts are centred on safeguarding lives and aiding survivors, the spokesperson said, adding that the search for the missing continues.

The Army said that relief stores, medical teams and rescue gear have been rushed to the site.

Over five columns of 60 personnel each, totalling 300 troops, and medical detachments of White Knight Corps are on the ground, working with police SDRF and other civilian agencies to save lives, the PRO added.

“Search for missing is underway with medical aid and support reaching affected families,” the PRO said.

BJP MLA from Paddar and Leader of the Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly, Sunil Sharma, along with Kishtwar BJP MLA Shagun Parihar, visited the site of the devastating cloudburst.

Speaking from the scene, Sharma estimated that between 1,000 and 1,200 people were in the area when the disaster struck. He described the situation as grim, noting that the death toll is significantly high and that recovery efforts are still ongoing as more bodies continue to be found.

As rescue teams continue to clear debris and conduct search operations in the aftermath of the cloudburst, families of the missing individuals endure a night filled with uncertainty and apprehension. For them, this night represents not rest but a relentless wait against time.

Witnesses said that some hold photographs of their loved ones, while others repeatedly trying to contact them via mobile phones, receiving no response. They added that there is no information or confirmation about their whereabouts. (KNO)

Massive cloudburst in Kishtwar; 38 Dead, 100+ injured, Toll likely to rise

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Srinagar: A massive cloudburst in the Chashoti area of Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir, triggered devastating flash floods on Thursday, claiming at least 38 lives, with the death toll feared to rise to between 30 and 40.

The disaster struck along the route of the ongoing Machail Mata Yatra, where a heavy rush of pilgrims and incessant rains worsened the situation. Officials said more than 250 people were present at the site of the tragedy when the cloudburst hit.

Kishtwar DDC Chairperson Pooja Thakur said, “Rescue teams are working tirelessly at the site. So far, 100 to 150 people have been injured, and we are doing everything possible to evacuate those stranded and provide medical assistance.”

Authorities said the flash floods swept through a parking lot, langar (community kitchen), and a CRPF camp in the area, leaving several people trapped under debris. Rescue operations are underway, but bad weather and damaged roads are hampering efforts.

The Army has joined the relief and rescue operations. A Jammu-based Army spokesperson said troops of the White Knight formation were swiftly mobilised to safeguard lives and assist survivors, with search operations for the missing continuing. Relief stores, medical teams, and rescue equipment have also been rushed to the site.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said his thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the cloudburst and asserted that every possible assistance will be provided to those in need.

In a post on X, Modi said, “My thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by the cloudburst and flooding in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir. The situation is being monitored closely. Rescue and relief operations are underway.”

“Every possible assistance will be provided to those in need,” the prime minister said.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also spoke to Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, assuring full central support. “Spoke with the LG and Chief Minister of J&K on the cloudburst in Kishtwar district. The local administration is conducting relief and rescue operations. NDRF teams have promptly been rushed to the site. We are closely monitoring the situation and stand firmly with the people of Jammu and Kashmir through every situation. Assured of all possible assistance to the people in need,” Shah posted on X.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah confirmed the grim situation, stating that verified information was slow to arrive due to the remote location. “I just spoke to the Union Home Minister @AmitShah Sb to brief him about the developing situation in Kishtwar region of Jammu. The news is grim & accurate, verified information from the area hit by the cloudburst is slow in arriving,” he said. He added that all available resources were being mobilized for rescue efforts.

Omar Abdullah has cancelled the ‘At Home’ tea party and cultural events planned for Independence Day on Friday following the devastating cloudburst.

In a post on X, Abdullah said that in light of the tragedy, he had decided to cancel the tea party scheduled for Friday evening and the cultural events during the morning Independence Day celebrations. He added that the formal events, including the speech and march past, would proceed as planned.

At least 38 bodies had been recovered so far, but the toll could rise as many pilgrims and locals were in the area when the disaster struck. “There was a parking lot and langar in the area. Besides, there was a CRPF camp in the area,” she said. “Lot of people are trapped because it was a yatra time. This year there was heavy rush for the yatra,” said Kishtwar DDC Chairperson.

Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh, who is coordinating rescue efforts, said bad weather was preventing helicopters from reaching the site. “Road has been washed off and the weather is not helicopter-worthy. Meanwhile, SDRF and NDRF support is being mobilised,” he said.

Leader of Opposition and BJP MLA Sunil Kumar Sharma expressed concerns over large-scale devastation, given the heavy pilgrim footfall. “Due to the ongoing Machail Mata Yatra, there is a heavy rush of people. Due to yatra, people have set up small shops, there are vehicles, there are people and there are villages around,” he said.

The Machail Mata Yatra, which began on July 25 and was scheduled to continue until September 5, has been suspended following the tragedy. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha expressed grief over the incident, stating, “Anguished by cloudburst in Chositi Kishtwar. Condolences to bereaved families & prayers for quick recovery of injured. Directed Civil, Police, Army, NDRF & SDRF officials to strengthen the rescue & relief operations and ensure all possible assistance is provided to the affected.”

Rescue teams from the NDRF, SDRF, police, and civil administration are working at the site, while ambulances have been deployed to evacuate the injured. However, with roads washed away and continuous rain, relief efforts remain challenging. (With PTI Inputs)

MeT predicts moderate showers in Kashmir, heavy rains in Jammu till Aug 15

Srinagar: As the temperatures continued to soar once again across the valley, the weatherman here has predicted moderate showers in Kashmir and heavy to very heavy rainfall in Jammu division for the next two days.

Director Meteorological department (MeT), Dr Mukhtar Ahmad told KNO that generally cloudy with light to moderate rain and thundershower is expected at many places with possibility of heavy to very heavy rain at isolated to scattered places of Jammu division, especially in Reasi, Udhampur, Jammu, Samba, Kathua, Doda and Rajouri mainly towards night and early morning hours till August 15.

He said that a few places of Kashmir division may also receive moderate showers with brief intense showers and gusty winds during the next two days, adding that generally hot and humid weather with the possibility of brief showers is expected at a few places on August 16.

Director said that from August 17 to 19, light to moderate rain and thunder are expected at many places, with heavy rain at a few places of Jammu division, mainly towards late night and early morning.

In its advisory, the MeT has stated that there is a possibility of heavy to very heavy rain at a few places of Jammu division during August 13-15, mainly towards night and early morning.

“Thunder, lightning and gusty winds are expected at a few places while flash floods at a few vulnerable places with landslides, mudslides and shooting stones till August 15,” the advisory reads. The people have been urged to stay away from water bodies, river embankments and loose structures, etc. (KNO)

Army soldier dies in exchange of fire with terrorists in Uri 

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Srinagar: An Army soldier lost his life in an exchange of fire with terrorists along the Line of Control (LoC) in North Kashmir’s Uri sector on Wednesday.

Officials told KNO, that the exchange of fire took place in Churanda village near the LoC.

The fallen soldier was identified as Havildar Ankit Kumar, who was on operational duty when the incident took place.

In a post on X, the Army’s Chinar Corps paid tribute to the fallen soldier, writing, “Chinar Corps honours the supreme sacrifice of Braveheart Havildar Ankit Kumar, who laid down his life while undertaking operational duty along the Line of Control in Uri, Baramulla.

Chinar Warriors salute his immense valour and sacrifice, express deepest condolence and stand in solidarity with the bereaved family”. (KNO)

Petitions on J&K statehood and nomination of 5 MLAs listed tomorrow

Srinagar: Two separate petitions—one seeking the restoration of Jammu & Kashmir’s special status, and another challenging the nomination of five MLAs—are listed for hearing in the Supreme Court and the Jammu & Kashmir High Court, respectively, on Thursday.

As per KNO, the Supreme Court will tomorrow hear pleas seeking restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood. “The case is listed at serial number 9 before the bench headed by Chief Justice of India,” advocate Soayib Quershi said.

Two separate petitions- one filed by Zahoor Ahmad Bhat(lawyer and academician) and Khursheed Ahmad Malik( socio- political activist) and another by Irfan Hafiz Lone(MLA Wagoora- Kreeri) are listed for hearing before the CJI-led bench.

Meanwhile, the petition challenging nomination of five MLAs is also listed for hearing before J&K High Court tomorrow. As already reported by KNO, the Ministry of Home Affairs has informed Jammu & Kashmir High Court that nomination of five MLAs of Jammu & Kashmir Assembly falls outside the purview of the elected government and is to be made by the Lieutenant Governor without aid and advice of the council of ministers.

“Sections 15, 15A and 15B all recognize the power and authority of the Lieutenant Governor to make a nomination to the Legislative Assembly. Accordingly, there can be no manner of doubt that it is the Lieutenant Governor who has to exercise this statutory duty in his discretion, as a statutory functionary and not as an extension of the government, thus, without aid and advice,” reads the affidavit filed by MHA through Vishal Sharma, Deputy Solicitor General of India.

While Section 15 of the Reorganisation Act empowers the Lieutenant Governor to nominate two women to the Assembly if he feels that they are not adequately represented, Sections 15A and 15B confer upon him the authority to nominate two Kashmiri migrants and one Pakistan-occupied Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK) refugee, respectively. (KNO)

Provide appointment letters to 235 talented youth selected under sports quota: LG Sinha to Chief Minister, Sports Minister 

Srinagar: Asserting that Jammu and Kashmir has carved a place in sports arena under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday expressed concern over the delay in appointments of 235 sportspersons selected under sports quota, urging the Chief Minister and Sports Minister to expedite the process without further delay.

Addressing a gathering at the trophy unveiling ceremony of Bijbehara Premier League (BPL)  here in south Kashmir, LG Sinha, according to KNO said, “ No appointments had been made under the sports quota in J&K since 2014 due to matter being sub judice. A new sports policy was framed, and 235 candidates—talented sportspersons of our region—were selected purely on the basis of merit.

Highlighting the plight of the selected athletes, he said they had been knocking on doors in the hope of securing their appointment letters. “I urge the sports minister to meet these youngsters. They have tried meeting me, but I have told them to meet the minister and the chief minister. I hope their appointment letters are issued without any further delay,” the LG stressed.

Referring to the remarkable progress made in the sports sector during the past few years, LG Sinha said, “In the past five years, we have invested in creating modern sports infrastructure, cultivate suitable environment for players and focussed on strong strategy and effective execution at grass roots level to foster sports culture.”

The Lieutenant Governor said the remarkable progress in J&K’s sports sector is due to hard work and unwavering determination of our sportspersons, dedicated coaches and tireless efforts of officials of Sports Council.

“J&K UT since 2020 had adopted a player-centered approach to develop players and maximise their ability. It has also been ensured that children and youth are provided with ample opportunities to participate in sports activities. This widespread reach reflects our commitment to inclusive sports development across the entire Union Territory,” he said.

LG Sinha said, “Five years ago, just 2.5 lakh youth were taking part in sports activities in J&K. Today, that number has touched 40 lakh. This is not just a statistic – it reflects the energy, talent, and determination of our youth.”

He noted that sports activities are now being conducted in every corner of Jammu and Kashmir, including national-level tournaments, with young players not only pursuing games as a passion but also as a professional career path.

The LG credited PM Modi for supporting the upgradation of J&K’s sports infrastructure under the Prime Minister’s Development Package (PMDP) and highlighted the implementation of a new sports policy.

“In order to achieve a drug-free Jammu and Kashmir and to fulfil all your dreams, the government has been working with full dedication. I believe your participation and courage will continue to take J&K towards a more peaceful environment,” he said.

CONGRATULATES PEOPLE FOR SUCCESSFUL CONDUCT OF AMARNATH YATRA 

The LG also congratulated the people of J&K, especially Anantnag, for the peaceful conduct of this year’s Amarnath Yatra, during which over 4.14 lakh pilgrims visited the holy cave.

“These yatris are acting as ambassadors of Kashmir, spreading the message of harmony and further boosting tourism,” he added.

He said that after a gap of 36 years, Legends Cricket League matches were held in J&K last year, signalling the revival of international cricket in the region.

“I have seen things which once looked impossible in J&K. Sports, especially cricket and volleyball, send a positive message among people and strengthen the bond of unity,” he added.

He further said government is committed to tap the untapped tourism potential of Kashmir so as to attract more and more tourists towards Kashmir. (KNO)

Ahead of I-Day security forces on high alert along LoC in J&K

Srinagar: As the nation prepares to celebrate 79th Independence Day, security forces along the Line of Control (LoC) and the International Border are on high alert.

According to the details available with KNO all the arrangement have been put in place to ensure robust border security and thwart any threats.

Officials said that this heightened vigilance spans key frontier areas, including North Kashmir’s Gurez sector, Uri, Karnah, Tangdhar, and the Sunderbani sector in Jammu.

They said that security measures have also been intensified along the International Border (IB) in the Jammu region, where Border Security Force (BSF) personnel are maintaining a close vigil through round-the-clock patrolling, digital surveillance, and other necessary measures.

“Troops have intensified surveillance and patrolling along the LoC, maintaining strict domination over the sensitive border region. Our forces are fully alert and prepared to respond swiftly to any infiltration attempts or ceasefire violations,” they said.

“We have deployed all necessary resources and are leveraging cutting-edge technology to maintain full control,” they added.

The Indian Army continues to make significant advancements in border management using state-of-the-art equipment. “Smart fencing systems have been installed at critical points to prevent crossings, while robotic surveillance devices patrol difficult terrain to provide real-time intelligence,” he added.

“Quadcopters and drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and night vision capabilities are extensively used for monitoring across the rugged landscape, allowing continuous 24×7 surveillance,” the official added.

Bulletproof vehicles and all-terrain transport enable quick movement of troops across challenging mountain areas, ensuring rapid deployment when needed.

Also, troops undergo rigorous training drills simulating infiltration attempts, bunker attacks, and coordinated responses, sharpening their operational readiness.

In the Sunderbani sector, soldiers recently demonstrated their capabilities by carrying out live exercises to respond to infiltration and enemy bunkers, showcasing their preparedness to defend the border at all costs.

“We are constantly improving our methods to stay ahead and ensure the safety of civilians living close to the border,” said another official. “Dominance along the LoC is critical, and our troops are committed to maintaining peace through strength and vigilance.”

Meanwhile, the J&K Police have also intensified security across the border areas and strengthened checks at entry and exit points to ensure effective area control. (KNO)

928 SRO-43, 1,279 RAS compassionate appointment cases gather dust in J&K: Waheed Para

Srinagar: PDP leader and MLA Pulwama, Waheed Ur Rehman Para, on Wednesday questioned the delay in clearing 928 SRO-43 cases and 1,279 Rehabilitation Assistance Scheme (RAS) cases for compassionate appointments in Jammu and Kashmir, accusing the administration of prolonging the suffering of bereaved families.

Quoting official figures from an un-starred Assembly question, Para said these cases — involving families who lost their sole breadwinner — remain pending in the General Administration Department despite the Chief Minister’s authority to relax rules for their clearance.

“These are not just files—they are the stories of families who face an uncertain, desperate future,” Para posted on X, tagging Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, the Office of LG J&K, Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, and the GAD.

He pointed out that the LG administration had recently used special powers to appoint hundreds of victims of terror, urging the elected government to take similar action. “Every day of inaction not only prolongs the suffering of these families but also weakens the authority of the elected office, allowing unelected bureaucrats to overshadow J&K’s democratic institutions,” he said.

In its written reply, the government informed the Assembly that as of March 1, 2025, 928 cases were pending under SRO-43 of 1994 and 1,279 under the Rehabilitation Assistance Scheme. It added that 1,116 SRO-43 cases were approved in 2024 and that all pending RAS applications have been forwarded to concerned departments for expeditious disposal.

Anantnag Police Raided 3 locations in a multi crore fraud case

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Srinagar: Police in Anantnag have raided three locations in Sadoora and Bidder Kokernag in connection with an FIR, linked to a multi-lakh financial fraud and forgery case.

Sources said that a team of Anantnag police have raided 3 locations of Sadoora & Bidder Kokernag in which already arrested three individuals in connection with a multi-lakh financial fraud and forgery case, which is registered under FIR No. 126/25 at Police Station Anantnag.

The police conducted raids at three locations in the district as part of their investigation.

The arrested individuals have been identified as Tasaduq Hussain Dar, Abdul Gani Dar, and Mohd Iqbal Wani. They are accused of operating a sophisticated fraud racket that involved multiple fake business ventures, including real estate, fruit trade, and a bogus wild garlic business. The arrests were made following a complaint from a victim who was allegedly cheated of ₹55 lakhs in a fake wild garlic deal.

Police officials stated that the trio would lure victims with promises of high returns on their investments and then resort to criminal intimidation when victims demanded their money back.

The case is being investigated as an organized financial crime, and authorities are working to identify other potential victims and accomplices.