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Chilling cold holds tight grip on J&K, Ladakh

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 16 (NVI): The biting cold continues to grip Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh as temperatures across the regions plummeted below freezing point in many areas, with some locations experiencing record lows.

In Kashmir, Shopian emerged as the coldest location, recording a bone-chilling -6.3°C, closely followed by Larnoo (-6.1°C) and Anantnag (-5.5°C). Zojila Pass, known for its harsh winter climate, registered an extreme low of -23.0°C, making it one of the coldest spots in the region.

Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, recorded -3.4°C, while Gulmarg, a popular ski destination, reported -4.0°C.

The Jammu region experienced relatively milder conditions, but the cold was still felt strongly in higher altitudes. Samba was the coldest at 0.5°C, while Jammu city recorded a minimum of 5.0°C. Banihal (1.0°C) and Bhaderwah (0.9°C) remained among the coldest spots in the region. Katra, the base camp for pilgrims visiting the Vaishno Devi shrine, recorded 6.9°C, the warmest in the region.

In Ladakh, the icy desert lived up to its reputation, with Leh shivering at -8.6°C and Kargil at an even colder -10.6°C.

These frigid conditions have disrupted daily life, with residents bracing for more intense weather as winter deepens. Authorities have advised caution while traveling through higher altitudes, particularly near Zojila, where extreme weather poses significant challenges.

Tourists, meanwhile, continue to flock to places like Gulmarg and Pahalgam, seeking to experience the winter wonderland. The next few days are expected to remain cold, with temperatures dropping further as the Chillai Kalan, the harshest 40-day winter period in Kashmir, approaches (News Vibes of India)

Kashmir hotels witness surge in bookings for Christmas, New Year Celebrations

hotel

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 15 (NVI): The tourism sector in Kashmir is abuzz with activity with hotels and resorts across the Valley report a significant rise in bookings for Christmas and New Year celebrations.

With fresh snowfall expected and a festive mood in the air, the Valley is becoming a favored winter destination for tourists from across the country.

Hotel owners and tour operators are optimistic about a busy season. Popular tourist destinations such as Gulmarg, Pahalgam and Srinagar have seen a surge in advance reservations for the holiday period. Premium hotels and resorts, particularly in Gulmarg, are already nearing full occupancy for New Year’s Eve, with many planning special events for their guests.

“We are experiencing high demand for rooms, especially in Gulmarg, where the snow-covered landscapes add to the festive spirit,” said a representative of a luxury hotel in Gulmarg. “We are organizing New Year’s Eve celebrations, including live music and bonfires, which are a major draw for tourists.”

Similarly, Srinagar hotels around Dal Lake and in Pahalgam are also witnessing a steady influx of bookings.

Tourism officials have noted that Kashmir’s unique winter charm, combined with better infrastructure and a push for promoting the Valley as a year-round destination, has led to a rise in winter tourism. “Kashmir is emerging as a preferred winter destination due to its unmatched beauty, especially during the snow season,” an official from the Department of Tourism said. “Festive celebrations like Christmas and New Year provide an added attraction for visitors.”

To cater to the growing demand, several travel agencies are offering customized packages that include adventure activities like skiing, snowboarding and gondola rides in Gulmarg, as well as sightseeing in Pahalgam and Srinagar. Special offers on accommodation, guided tours, and discounts for groups are making Kashmir an appealing choice for holidaymakers.

The tourism department, in coordination with local authorities, has ensured enhanced security arrangements and seamless travel for tourists. The hospitality sector is also taking extra measures to provide memorable experiences for visitors.

The festive season surge is not only benefiting hotels but also giving a much-needed boost to local businesses, including houseboat operators, handicraft sellers and transport providers. Local shopkeepers in Srinagar’s bustling markets are optimistic about increased sales of traditional Kashmiri items such as pashmina shawls, saffron and dry fruits, which are popular among tourists.

Tourism stakeholders are hopeful that the positive momentum will carry forward into 2024, with several winter sports and cultural events lined up. “The ongoing festive season is just the beginning. We are expecting this winter to be one of the best in terms of tourism, thanks to the increasing number of tourists choosing Kashmir,” said Manzoor Bhat, senior tour operator in Srinagar.

With its magical snow-laden landscapes, festive spirit, and warm hospitality, Kashmir is fast becoming the top choice for travelers seeking a winter wonderland experience during Christmas and New Year celebrations. (News Vibes of India)

One Nation One Election Plan will silence J&K’s political voice: PDP MLA Waheed Para

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 15 (NVI): PDP legislator and youth president Waheed Para today criticized the proposed ‘One Nation, One Election’ (ONOE) initiative, asserting that it poses a severe threat to the distinct political, cultural and legal identity of Jammu and Kashmir.

Para described the plan as a step that would marginalize regional voices and erase the political relevance of J&K’s unique concerns. “This proposal is not just an administrative shift. It directly threatens the political and cultural identity of Jammu and Kashmir, further undermining what remains of our distinct voice after the revocation of Article 370,” he wrote on his X handle.

Para warned that J&K’s specific issues, such as the restoration of Articles 370 and 35A, the rehabilitation of displaced communities, and land rights, risk being overshadowed by national political agendas under ONOE. “Our region’s needs cannot be lumped into national debates. These concerns will be lost in the noise of larger political narratives, leaving us with no space to address our specific challenges,” he remarked.

The PDP leader highlighted that regional parties, essential for representing local needs, would lose their influence in a centralized election system. “With ONOE, the voices of regional parties will be drowned out by the financial and political dominance of national parties, who often have little interest in our unique issues,” Para stated.

Stressing on the J&K’s diversity, Para argued that Jammu and Kashmir’s two regions have distinct priorities that cannot be addressed through simultaneous state and national elections. “Holding elections together will deepen divisions between Jammu and Kashmir, as both have different needs. National politics often fail to reflect our realities, and ONOE will only widen this gap,” he said.

He also pointed out that J&K’s geographical complexity, security challenges, and unresolved legal issues following the abrogation of Article 370 would make synchronizing elections a logistical and administrative burden.

Para raised concerns about unresolved legal issues stemming from J&K’s reorganization.

“The revocation of Article 370 has left many constitutional questions unanswered. Introducing synchronized elections in this volatile environment will further complicate governance and legal frameworks,” he added.

Para concluded by calling for reforms tailored to J&K’s specific challenges rather than broad national initiatives. “Jammu and Kashmir needs policies that respect its unique identity and address its local governance issues. ONOE is not the reform we need—it represents disempowerment of our political voice, identity, and future,” he said. (News Vibes of India)

Police nab 3 drug peddlers in Srinagar, Sopore: Contraband recovered

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 15 (NVI): In a continued crackdown on the drug menace, Jammu and Kashmir Police arrested three alleged drug peddlers in separate operations conducted in Srinagar and Sopore. Contraband substances, including charas and ganja, were recovered from their possession, and investigations are underway.

In Srinagar, a team from Police Post Urdu Bazar apprehended two individuals during a naka (checkpoint) at Budgeer Kawdara crossing. The suspects were identified as:

Milad Bashir Bhat, son of Late Bashir Ahmad Bhat, a resident of Dolipora Kawdara.

Toyab Ahmad Sheikh, son of Late Mohammad Shafi Sheikh, a resident of Surnai Mohalla Kawdara.

Police recovered approximately 16 grams of charas and 210 grams of ganja from their possession. A case has been registered under FIR No. 53/2024 at Police Station M R Gunj under relevant sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.

In Sopore, police intercepted a drug peddler at Dangerpora Crossing during a naka led by the in-charge of Police Post Warpora under the supervision of SDPO Sopore Sarfaraz Bashir (JKPS) and SHO Sopore. The accused was identified as:

Showkat Ahmad Dar, son of Habib-u-llah Dar, a resident of Reban Sopore.

During the search, authorities recovered 140 grams of charas. A case has been filed under FIR No. 253/2024 at Police Station Sopore under relevant sections of the law.

The police have urged the public to report any instances of drug peddling or other criminal activities in their surroundings. Citizens can contact the nearest police station or call 112 to share information.

In a statement, officials reaffirmed their commitment to fighting the drug menace. “Tackling the scourge of drugs is a shared responsibility. We appeal to the public to support us in this mission to create a safer, drug-free society. Strict action will be taken against those involved in such activities,” a police spokesperson said.

The operations reflect the Jammu and Kashmir Police’s ongoing efforts to curb drug-related crimes and protect the community from the harmful impact of substance abuse (News Vibes of India)

No let up in biting cold as J&K, Ladakh records freezing temperatures

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 15 (NVI): The cold wave continues to grip Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh regions as minimum temperatures plummeted to sub-zero levels in many areas, with some recording the season’s lowest so far.

In the Kashmir region, Zojila Pass experienced bone-chilling temperatures, recording the lowest at -22.0°C, while Shopian, one of the coldest inhabited places, dropped to -6.1°C. Other notable temperatures include Pahalgam at -4.8°C, Pulwama at -5.3°C, and Anantnag at -5.1°C. Srinagar, the summer capital, recorded a minimum of -3.4°C, while tourist destinations like Gulmarg and Sonamarg recorded -3.8°C and -3.4°C, respectively.

In the Jammu region, relatively warmer conditions prevailed, with Jammu city registering 6.6°C, though higher altitudes felt the chill. Banihal recorded 1.8°C, Padder touched 0.3°C, and Samba dipped to 2.2°C. Katra, the base camp for the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, stood at 8.4°C, the warmest in the region.

The Ladakh region experienced extreme cold, with Kargil at -11.2°C and Leh at -10.5°C, continuing its trend as one of the coldest inhabited areas in India.

The biting cold is expected to persist, with the possibility of further dips in temperature in the coming days. Residents have been advised to take necessary precautions and prepare for frost and icy conditions.

Tourists visiting the region are embracing the cold, with popular destinations like Gulmarg and Sonamarg drawing crowds to witness the snow-covered landscapes. However, the authorities have urged travelers to remain cautious, especially in high-altitude areas.

This sharp drop in temperatures signals the peak of winter in the region as locals brace for harsher days ahead. (News Vibes of India)

BSF troops foil smuggling attempt: Recover Pak drone, narcotics on Jammu border

NVI Correspondent

Jammu, Dec 15(NVI): The alert troops of the Border Security Force (BSF) Jammu thwarted a smuggling attempt on 14 December 2024 in the Arnia Sector of Jammu.

A BSF spokesman said that late night yesterday, BSF personnel intercepted a Pakistani drone and recovered it along with 495 grams of narcotic substances.

The swift and decisive action by BSF Jammu highlights the force’s unwavering vigilance and commitment to national security. The dedication and sharp surveillance of BSF personnel have once again defeated the nefarious designs of anti-national elements operating across the border.

This achievement highlights the BSF’s relentless efforts to safeguard the nation from cross-border threats and smuggling activities (News Vibes of India)

MHA approves subsidized helicopter service for Jammu-Mendhar (Poonch) route

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 14 (NVI): The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has approved the launch of a subsidized helicopter service on the Jammu-Mendhar route in Poonch district.

Official sources told NVI that this service is designed to improve connectivity for the remote Mendhar sector, which has long struggled with accessibility, especially during the harsh winter months. The subsidized nature of the service will make air travel more affordable for locals, ensuring that residents and visitors can travel more easily to and from the region.

The officials said that this helicopter service is part of a broader initiative to enhance transportation infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir, focusing on four hilly districts, including Poonch, Rajouri, Doda, and Kishtwar.

“The goal is not only to improve general accessibility but also to provide crucial support for emergency evacuations and medical assistance, which can be challenging due to the area’s difficult terrain,” an official said.

The MHA’s approval is seen as a major step toward improving the lives of people in these remote regions, ensuring faster and safer transportation, particularly in times of crisis. The service is expected to have a wide-reaching impact, boosting local development, tourism, and the overall economy, while also offering relief to those in need of urgent medical attention. (News Vibes of India)

Police attach property belonging to infamous drug peddler in Srinagar

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 14 (NVI): As part of its continued fight against the growing menace of drug trafficking in Jammu and Kashmir, the Srinagar Police today seized a single-story residential house valued at approximately Rs 19 lakh belonging to Mohammad Younis Wani, a notorious drug peddler involved in the illegal narcotics trade.

Police said the property, located in Ranbirgarh Srinagar, was attached under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, after detailed investigations revealed it was obtained through the proceeds of his illicit drug trade.

Wani, son of Mohammad Maqbool Wani, has been implicated in the distribution of narcotics in the region, contributing to the growing drug abuse among the youth. His arrest in connection with FIR No. 85/2024, registered at Police Station Shalteng, was part of the ongoing crackdown on drug trafficking. He is currently detained in Central Jail Srinagar under the provisions of the NDPS Act.

The property was attached after a comprehensive financial investigation, and the seizure took place in the presence of an Executive Magistrate 1st Class. This move comes under the provisions of Section 68 of the NDPS Act, which empowers authorities to attach properties acquired through illicit drug trade.

Furthermore, under Sections 68E and 68F of the NDPS Act, any property seized in such cases cannot be transferred, sold, or otherwise dealt with without prior permission from the competent authority. This legal measure aims to prevent the unlawful profits generated by narcotics trade from being used to further criminal activities.

The swift action taken by the Jammu and Kashmir Police is part of a broader strategy to combat the widespread drug trafficking network in the region. Authorities hope that by targeting the financial assets of drug dealers, they can dismantle the infrastructure supporting the narcotics trade and reduce the influx of drugs into the state. The move also reflects the government’s strong commitment to eradicating drug abuse, which has been a significant challenge for the youth of the Valley. (News Vibes of India)

Cases of Pakistani repression in Balochistan highlighted in UK Parliament

Debate on Balochistan situation in UK Parliament

London, Dec 14 (NVI) Examples of human rights violations and repression being carried out by Pakistan in occupied Balochistan were highlighted in the British Parliament complex by the Baloch National Movement (BNM).

At a debate hosted by British MP John McDonnell in the Parliament premises, speakers emphasised the urgent need for global attention and action to address these atrocities.

Besides McDonnell, the speakers included British MP Jeremy Corbyn, MP Richard Burgon, BNM Chairman Dr. Naseem Baloch and other Baloch leaders like Sami Deen Baloch, Dr. Sabiha Baloch, Dr. Naseer Dashti, Faheem Baloch, and Saleem Elahi Baloch.

The speakers highlighted that the Baloch nation is enduring severe state repression, enforced disappearances, and extrajudicial killings, necessitating international intervention to put an end to these crimes, according to a statement issued by the BNM.

John McDonnell emphasized that, despite the UK’s close ties with Pakistan, it must not remain silent on the human rights violations in Balochistan, the statement said.

He urged fellow British MPs to press the UK government to advocate for justice for the Baloch people.

Naseem Baloch, himself a two-time victim of enforced disappearance by the Pakistani army, shared his personal experiences.

He stated, “The only reason I survived in Pakistani torture cells was my unwavering belief in the independence of Balochistan. This belief became my source of endurance and hope.”

He further emphasized, “I am not alone in facing this oppression; thousands of Baloch men and women have fallen victim to enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, and relentless state repression. Balochistan has become a land overshadowed by terrorism and fear, where daily life is marked by uncertainty.”

BNM Foreign Secretary Fahim Baloch spoke about the profound and lasting impact of enforced disappearances on the families of victims. He reaffirmed the Baloch nation’s unwavering determination to achieve freedom despite the relentless abductions and violence they endure.

Dr. Naseer Dashti drew attention to the inhumane conditions faced by the Baloch nation, the illegal annexation of Balochistan, and the detrimental effects of China’s involvement through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). He called for global accountability for Pakistan and China’s actions.

Sammi Deen Baloch, a prominent leader of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), shared his family’s struggles following his father’s disappearance and highlighted the dangers faced by families seeking justice.

He emphasized the urgent need for international solidarity to combat these atrocities against the Baloch nation.

Dr. Sabiha Baloch, a leader of the BYC, discussed the deprivation of basic rights in Balochistan and the brutal repression of peaceful activists, enabled by Chinese funding.

She urged for an international fact-finding mission to expose and address the region’s atrocities.

Saleem Elahi Baloch recounted the enforced disappearance of his brother Zahid Baloch, a student leader. He made an impassioned plea to the international community to put an end to the systematic practice of enforced disappearances in Balochistan.

Jeremy Corbyn MP underscored the importance of raising global awareness about the atrocities in Balochistan and fostering solidarity with oppressed communities worldwide. (NVI)

NIA chargesheets key accused in Reasi Bus attack case

NIA Correspondent

Srinagar, December 14 (NVI): The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has filed a chargesheet against Hakam Khan in connection with the terrorist attack on a bus carrying pilgrims near Katra ,Reasi in June 2024.

In the chargesheet submitted to the NIA Special Court in Jammu, Khan is charged under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UA(P) Act).

The attack took place on June 9, 2024, when terrorists opened fire on the bus near Kanda, Jhandi Morh. Eight pilgrims and the bus driver were killed, and 41 others were injured. The attack also caused the driver, who was shot in the head, to lose control of the vehicle, resulting in the bus rolling into a deep gorge.

Following an investigation, the NIA arrested Khan, who allegedly played a critical role in the conspiracy behind the attack. According to the NIA, Khan provided essential logistical support to the terrorists, including food, shelter, and helping identify the location for the attack. The agency continues to investigate the case.(News Vibes of India)

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