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BNM holds demonstration in Germany to highlight Pakistan’s atrocities in Balochistan

Baloch protest organised by BNM in Germany

Berlin, June 22: While Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir were playing peaceamakers between the US and Iran, members of the Baloch diaspora staged a demonstration in Germany to tell the international community about the ongoing human rights violations being committed by the Pakistani regime in occupied Balochistan.

Organised by the Baloch National Movement (BNM), the event in Bonn on Sunday saw participants highlighting the dire situation in Balochistan because of the extreme oppression being carried out by the Pakistani regime.

The participants demanded justice for the Baloch nationals victimised due to Pakistani oppression, said a press statement issued by BNM.

Deep concern was expressed regarding the “faceless trials” being conducted against leaders of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC).

BNM characterised these proceedings as a blatant violation of fundamental human rights and established principles of justice.

Significantly, the demonstration took place on a day Pakistani PM and Asim Munir were playing mediators between the US and Iran during their talks scheduled in Switzerland.

At the BNM programme, Baloch participants highlighted that constitutional and legal rights have been effectively suspended in Balochistan, where the Pakistan Army operates with impunity.

They specifically noted the case of prominent BYC leader Dr. Mahrang Baloch and her colleagues, who are being targeted through opaque judicial processes.

In these trials, the identities of court staff, witnesses, and even the presiding judges remain concealed.

The protesters strongly condemned the ongoing attacks on the homes of Baloch activists and political leaders, reporting that residences are being looted and demolished.

Furthermore, they noted that the families of victims of enforced disappearances are being subjected to extreme pressure, often forced to hold press conferences to publicly disown their forcibly missing loved ones.

During the demonstration, the participants urged the international community to form an independent fact-finding mission—comprising of human rights organizations, journalists, and researchers—to investigate the human rights crisis in Balochistan.

Additionally, the protesters appealed to the European Union and other global powers to prioritize these grave human rights concerns when engaging in diplomatic and economic relations with Pakistan.

They emphasized that the respect for human rights and accountability must be at the core of all international engagement.

The protesters urged EU member states to evaluate their commercial, cultural, and political ties with Pakistan through this lens and to hold the state accountable for ensuring the protection of human rights.

Indian Navy gets more power with induction of 3 advanced military platforms

PM Narendra Modi at event to induct 3 advanced military platforms in Indian Navy

Kolkata, June 21 (NVI) The Indian Navy today got more power as 3 advanced maritime military platforms were inducted into the force here.

The inductions are — stealth frigate INS Dunagiri, large survey vessel INS Sanshodhak and an anti-submarine shallow water craft INS Agray.

These state-of-the-art platforms will significantly enhance the nation’s operational capabilities, maritime security against geopolitical threats, and domain awareness.

“No nation can emerge as a major power without strong maritime capabilities. Development, security and prosperity are closely linked to the oceans. Most of the world’s trade moves through sea routes, while vast global data networks operate beneath the oceans,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi said while commissioning the three platforms.

He said India does not wish to remain merely a buyer in the defence sector but “seeks to become a producer and a manufacturer, because nations that manufacture become decisive players on the global stage.”

During the recent past, 40 indigenously-built warships and submarines have been inducted into the Indian Navy while 45 major naval platforms are currently under construction.

The three ships have been designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau as well as by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE), and constructed by GRSE, with extensive participation by Indian industry, including more than 200 MSMEs.

INS Dunagiri

The frigate is designed for high-end operations as it has been built using modular construction techniques and is armed with supersonic surface-to-surface missiles, advanced air defence systems, MR Gun, close-in weapon systems and advanced anti-submarine warfare capabilities.

Its propulsion and Integrated Platform Management System ensure endurance, agility and operational flexibility.

Its reach is augmented by integral helicopter carrying ability, capable of operating various types of helicopters at extended ranges.

INS Sanshodhak

It is the fourth Survey Vessel (Large) class ship and its induction will contribute to the sustainable use of ocean resources, aid coastal and offshore development, supporting India’s vision of MAHASAGAR.

INS Sanshodhak is equipped with advanced hydrographic and oceanographic systems and four Survey Motor Boats (SMBs).

These systems provide highly precise hydrographic data, enabling the sustainable utilisation of ocean resources, strengthening the resurgent Blue Economy.

Its twin-engine diesel propulsion along with state-of-the-art platform management systems enhance her operational reach covering the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

The ship also features dual-role capability and can be configured as a Hospital Ship, while also being capable of helicopter operations.

INS Agray

It adds critical capability to the Navy’s shallow-water anti-submarine and mine warfare posture.

The fifth in a series of Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW SWC), Agray is equipped with advanced Sonar, Torpedoes, Anti-Submarine Rockets and a Combat Management System. Designed for agility in littoral waters and powered by waterjets, the vessel offers formidable underwater detection and engagement capability.

Together, the induction of Dunagiri, Sanshodhak and Agray reflects the Navy’s expanding ability of building a balanced, networked and mission-ready force.

These advanced ships are capable of undertaking Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations as well as Non-Combatant Evacuation Operations. (NVI)

Ancient Nara Nag Temple in Kashmir reopened

Nara Nag temple in Kashmir reopened

Srinagar, Jun 20 (NVI): The historic and ancient Nara Nag Temple in Kashmir Valley, revered by Kashmiri Pandits, has been reopened for devotees and tourists following a comprehensive security review, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said on Saturday.

The centuries-old temple complex, situated in the picturesque Nara Nag area of central Kashmir, had remained closed for visitors due to security considerations.

Naranag or Nara Nag temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Nagas (serpeants), was built in 8th century AD.

In earlier times, Kashmiri Saraswat Brahmins, known for their reverence for serpents, used to stay here and do their ‘sadhanas’ (obeisance).

In a post on social media platform X, Sinha said the decision to reopen the temple in Ganderbal district was taken after assessing the security situation in the area.

“After thorough security review, decision has been taken to open the Naranag Temple at Ganderbal for devotees and tourists,” he said.

Officials said adequate security arrangements have been made to ensure the safety of pilgrims and tourists visiting the site.

The reopening of the temple is expected to provide a boost to religious tourism and attract more visitors to the region, they added.(NVI)

Mata Kheer Bhawani Yatra Flagged Off from Jammu Amid Record Participation

Jammu, Jun 20 (NVI): The annual Mata Kheer Bhawani Yatra commenced on Saturday with around 8,500 pilgrims leaving for various pilgrimage destinations in Kashmir, officials said.

A fleet of 214 buses carrying devotees was flagged off from Nagrota on the outskirts of Jammu for the shrine of Mata Ragnya Devi at Tulmulla in Ganderbal district and other traditional pilgrimage centres in the Valley.

The yatra was flagged off by Nagrota MLA Devyani Rana in the presence of senior civil and police officials, including DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua Range Shridhar Patil and Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner (Migrants) Dr Arvind Karwani.

Officials said this year’s pilgrimage has witnessed a significant increase in registrations compared to previous years. They attributed the rise to the improved security situation, peaceful atmosphere and extensive arrangements made for devotees.

The annual Mata Kheer Bhawani Mela is observed at Tulmulla in Ganderbal, Tikker in Kupwara, Devsar-Manzgam in Kulgam and Logripora in Anantnag districts, with the main congregation taking place at the revered Mata Ragnya Devi shrine at Tulmulla.

Officials said special arrangements have been put in place by the administration, security agencies and various departments to facilitate the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. Senior officers have also been deployed at key shrine locations to oversee arrangements and coordinate services for devotees.

The yatra will culminate on June 22 on the occasion of Jyeshtha Ashtami, when thousands of devotees are expected to offer prayers at the shrines, they added.(NVI)

Govt Doctor suspended in Kashmir for alleged impropriety in treatment under PM scheme

Srinagar, Jun 20 (NVI): An Associate Professor of Cardiology at a government medical college in Kashmir has been suspended on charges of procedural misrepresentation and financial impropriety under the PMJAY-SEHAT scheme.

The Jammu and Kashmir government has suspended Dr Syed Maqbool Ahmad Shah, a senior cardiologist posted at Government Medical College (GMC), Anantnag, pending an inquiry into his conduct, according to an official order.

The doctor has been placed under suspension with immediate effect under Rule 31 of the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1956, the order said.

The order, issued by the Health and Medical Education Department on Saturday, said the suspension would remain in force pending completion of the inquiry.

During the suspension period, Shah will remain attached to the office of Government Medical College, Jammu, it added.

Health Minister Sakeena Itoo said the inquiry is underway and whoever is found guilty will be punished as per the law.

According to the departmental memorandum, cross-referencing online TMS claims against the physical Cath Lab Procedure Register revealed that Dr Maqbool actually performed Left Bundle Branch Area Pacing (LBBAP) while claiming funds for a Dual Chamber Pacemaker.

The State Health Agency (SHA) referred the data to the Head of Department of Cardiology at SKIMS Soura for expert review.

The expert panel reported that LBBAP is a highly specialised procedure with strict clinical boundaries, only indicated for patients with borderline or severe left ventricular dysfunction for specific narrow QRS ECG morphology.

The clinical audit showed that 27 out of 55 patients (49 per cent) had normal LV function and wide QRS morphology, with no medical reason to perform LBBAP on these individuals. Consequently, SHA rejected these claims as fraudulent.

The memorandum stated that Dr Maqbool logged false descriptions in the official TMS system, bypassed the government supply chain, and extorted money from patients legally entitled to free healthcare, constituting a gross abuse of official position and serious medical malpractice warranting disciplinary action, including termination.

“Let the inquiry be completed. We are waiting for the report, and whoever is found guilty will be punished as per the law,” the Health Minister said. (NVI)

LG calls for reviving India’s knowledge legacy, strengthening cultural diplomacy

Srinagar, Jun 20 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday called for reviving India’s rich traditions of knowledge and spirituality and strengthening cultural diplomacy, saying the country must build a future-oriented education system that connects youth with both ancient wisdom and modern technology.

Addressing the Srinagar-Nalanda Dialogue here, Sinha said the country’s goal should be to revive its knowledge heritage, strengthen civilisational traditions and promote an education system rooted in cultural values while embracing technological advancements.

The event was organised by the Ministry of Tourism, the Department of Culture, Jammu and Kashmir, the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), the National School of Drama and Nava Nalanda Mahavihara University.

Sinha said good governance and cultural dialogue together shape the moral, cultural and human character of society and help formulate inclusive policies.

“Together, the scholars of Jammu and Kashmir and Nalanda shaped one of the world’s oldest living civilisations. This heritage is our guiding light. The Srinagar-Nalanda Dialogue is our opportunity to carry that light forward with wisdom, courage and a new vision for Viksit Bharat,” he said.

The lieutenant governor stressed the need to strengthen India’s soft power and promote cultural diplomacy.

“Centuries ago, India’s knowledge unified the globe. Today, we can be the bridge the world needs. The world is watching. Let us lead with confidence and compassion,” he said.

Highlighting India’s cultural diversity, Sinha said the younger generation had inherited a rich legacy of languages, beliefs, artistic traditions and philosophical schools.

“From Bihar to Jammu and Kashmir, from the temples of Tamil Nadu to the monasteries of Ladakh, each region preserves its distinct cultural identity and rhythm of life. Our shared aim should be to weave these diversities into a harmonious unity that enriches the nation’s collective consciousness,” he said.

Sinha said Indian civilisation had long been defined by centres of learning such as Nalanda, Takshashila and Vikramashila, which attracted scholars and travellers from across Asia and beyond.

He described Nalanda as a centre of critical thinking and intellectual inquiry, while referring to Jammu and Kashmir as the historic seat of learning associated with Sharda Peeth.

The lieutenant governor said there was a need to revive the tradition of open exchange of ideas and intellectual engagement, drawing inspiration from the historical links between Nalanda and Kashmir.

He also underscored the importance of preserving and promoting ancient towns with rich cultural and educational heritage, including Srinagar, Nalanda, Jammu, Varanasi, Hampi, Sanchi, Madurai, Puri and Thanjavur.

Sinha said infrastructure development, heritage conservation and platforms such as the Srinagar-Nalanda Dialogue were essential to fostering cultural exchange and promoting India’s civilisational values.

Several academicians, literary personalities, senior officials and students attended the event. (NVI)

EOW files chargesheet in telecom project fraud case

Srinagar, Jun 20 (NVI): The Economic Offences Wing (EOW) of the Crime Branch, Jammu and Kashmir, has filed a chargesheet against a Kanpur-based man in connection with an alleged telecom project fraud case, officials said on Saturday.

The chargesheet was filed before the court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Sopore, in FIR No. 44/2023 registered under Section 420 of the Indian Penal Code, they said.

According to officials, the accused, identified as Harkeet Singh, a resident of Kanpur in Uttar Pradesh, allegedly induced a complainant to invest money on the promise of providing an inbound sales call project of US-based telecom company AT&T.

During the investigation, it was found that the accused had allegedly deceived the complainant and obtained money through false assurances regarding the telecom project, officials said.

Based on the evidence collected during the probe, the allegations were substantiated and a chargesheet was filed before the competent court for judicial proceedings, they added.

The EOW advised the public to remain vigilant against economic frauds and report such incidents to the authorities. Victims can also submit complaints through the official email of the Economic Offences Wing, officials said.(NVI)

Baramulla admin bans gatherings near NEET re-exam centres on June 21

Maharashtra
(Representational/file photo)

Baramulla, Jun 20 (NVI): The district administration in Jammu and Kashmir’s Baramulla has imposed restrictions under Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) around 11 examination centres for the smooth conduct of the NEET (UG)-2026 re-examination scheduled on June 21, officials said on Saturday.

According to an order issued by District Magistrate Syeed Fakhrudin Hamid, the restrictions will remain in force within a 200-metre radius of all designated examination centres from 10 am till the conclusion of the examination.

The National Testing Agency (NTA) will conduct the re-examination from 2 pm to 5 pm, while an additional hour has been provided for PwD/PwBD candidates, the order said.

Only candidates carrying valid admit cards and identity documents will be allowed entry into the examination centres, while examination staff and other authorised personnel will be permitted after verification of their photo identity cards and biometric authentication wherever applicable, it said.

The order prohibits entry of unauthorised persons within the restricted zone and bars candidates from carrying mobile phones, electronic gadgets, calculators, books, notes or any other material that could facilitate unfair means.

Gatherings of more than five persons around the examination centres have also been prohibited, while the use of public address systems and loudspeakers has been banned from noon to 6 pm on the day of the examination, officials said.

The restrictions have been imposed to prevent external interference and ensure a fair and transparent examination process, they added.

The order, however, exempts law enforcement agencies, magistrates and personnel officially associated with the conduct of the examination.

Officials said violators will face action under the relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).—(NVI)

Trump insults Meloni, She hits back

Donald Trump and Giorgia Meloni at G7 Summit in France

New Delhi, June 19: US President Donald Trump today kicked off a diplomatic spat with Italy, as he publicly insulted its Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni who hit out at him for “lying”.

Trump, in a mocking tone, claimed that at the recently G7 Summit in France, Meloni “begged” for a photo with him and that he “felt sorry for her.”

The US President made the controversial statement in a TV interview.

Shortly afterwards, Meloni issued a video statement, condemning Trump for making such an irresponsible statement.

Calling Trump’s claim as “completely fabricated”, she said, “I am frankly appalled… I don’t know why the President of the United States behaves this way towards his allies.”

She added that Trump appears to show more accommodation towards “the enemies of the West” than America’s allies.

Concluding, Meloni said, “Italy and I never beg.”

Amidst the spat, Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani canceled his planned two-day official visit to Washington that was to begin on June 21.

This is not the first time that Trump has insulted and humiliated a leader of another country.

More than a year back, he humiliated Ukrainian President Volodimir Zelensky in front of the media during their meeting at the White House.

He has done similar acts to demean leaders of Pakistan, Saudi Arabia and other countries. (NVI)

Indian Navy Set to Induct Three Home-Built Frontline Vessels

New Delhi, Jun 19 (NVI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi will commission three indigenously built frontline naval platforms — INS Dunagiri, INS Sanshodhak and INS Agray — at a ceremony in Kolkata on June 21, the Indian Navy said on Friday.

Designed by the Indian Navy’s Warship Design Bureau and built by grse in the three platforms represent key operational capabilities in maritime combat, hydrographic surveying and anti-submarine warfare.

INS Dunagiri, the fifth Project 17A stealth frigate, is equipped with advanced weapons and sensors, including BrahMos surface-to-surface missiles and the Medium Range Surface-to-Air Missile system, enhancing the Navy’s combat capabilities.

INS Sanshodhak, the fourth Survey Vessel (Large), is designed to undertake coastal and deep-water hydrographic surveys and collect oceanographic and geophysical data for defence and civil applications. It is equipped with advanced survey systems, including Autonomous Underwater Vehicles and Remotely Operated Vehicles.

INS Agray, the fourth Arnala-class Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft, is fitted with lightweight torpedoes, indigenous rocket launchers and shallow-water sonar systems to detect and engage underwater threats in littoral waters.

According to the Navy, the three vessels have an indigenous content of over 75 per cent and were built with the participation of more than 200 MSMEs, generating significant direct and indirect employment.

The commissioning of the platforms underscores India’s growing indigenous shipbuilding capabilities and reflects the country’s push towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, officials said.(NVI)

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