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Protests Against Vaishno Devi Ropeway Project : 2 Labour Union Leaders arrested in Katra

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Nov 26(NVI): Two labour union leaders, Bhupinder Singh and Sohan Chand, were arrested by Katra Police near Banganga Road amid ongoing protests against a proposed Rs 250 crore ropeway project near the Vaishno Devi shrine.

A senior police officer confirmed to NVI the arrest of two Union leaders. “They have been detained under relevant sections of the law,” he said.

The arrests came despite assurances of the LG Manoj Sinha that talks will be held with trade union leaders of Katra and that their livelihood concerns would be taken care of.

Demonstrators, including traders and workers, fear the project could harm local businesses by reducing market footfall. The protests turned violent on Monday, resulting in clashes between police and protesters that left one officer injured.

The ropeway project, aimed at improving pilgrimage connectivity, has sparked significant resistance, with locals citing concerns about livelihoods and market viability.

Protests intensified in recent days, highlighting the tension between developmental initiatives and community interests- (News Vibes of India)

Winter Grips J&K, Ladakh, Sub-Zero Chill tightens its hold, Frosty mornings in Valley

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Nov 27 (NVI): As winter sets in with full might, temperatures across Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh have dipped to the lowest with Valley witnessing frosty mornings amid minus temperatures in the nights.

While the snow-clad mountains of Kashmir present a true winter picture, the landscapes of Ladakh too have turned into icy realms overnight.

Meanwhile, the Jammu plains offered a relatively milder respite.

As per the independent weather forecaster Faizan Arif, Kashmir witnessed a sharp decline in mercury, with most areas recording subzero temperatures. Shopian emerged as the coldest spot, shivering at a bone-chilling -4.6°C, closely followed by Pahalgam (-4.4°C) and Larnoo (-3.9°C). Even the famous hill station of Gulmarg dropped to -2.6°C, offering an icy playground for winter enthusiasts.

Srinagar, the summer capital, experienced a freezing -0.6°C, while Kokernag, with a slightly warmer 0.4°C, provided the highest minimum temperature in the valley.

The Jammu region saw a mix of chilly mornings. Padder recorded the region’s lowest temperature at -5.8°C, while Ramban stood out as the warmest at a comfortable 11.8°C. Jammu city itself dipped to 10.1°C, making it a perfect balance of winter chill and warmth.

However, the mountain towns like Batote (5.6°C) and Bhaderwah (1.6°C) hinted at the region’s gradual transition into peak winter.

The coldest temperatures of the day came from Ladakh, where Drass, often hailed as the second-coldest inhabited place on Earth, plunged to a spine-numbing -11.2°C. Leh and Kargil weren’t far behind, registering -8.6°C and -6.8°C, respectively.

While winter tourism thrives in destinations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam, the freezing temperatures serve as a reminder of the region’s harsh living conditions. As the season progresses, the cold is expected to intensify, especially in Ladakh and Kashmir, while the Jammu plains may continue to offer some relief. (News Vibes of India)

Pakistan: 6 killed, many injured as Imran Khan’s supporters clash with security forces

Imran Khan's supporters climb on containers installed to stop them in Islamabad today

Islamabad, Nov 26 (NVI) Pakistan’s capital Islamabad today became a venue for a major showdown between security forces and thousands of supporters of the jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan, leaving at least 6 people, including 4 security personnel, dead and many others injured.

Security forces resorted to firing, lobbing of teargas shells and cane-charging as the activists and supporters of Khan’s party Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) converged in Islamabad, demanding release of the 72-year-old leader and withdrawal of all cases against him.

Khan, a former cricket legend, has been in jail for over a year as over 150 criminal cases have been filed against him after his ouster as the Prime Minister in 2022.

Khan and his party have dubbed the charges as false and politically motivated.

To press for his release, thousands of his supporters from various parts of Pakistan reached Islamabad as part of the planned agitation.

Defying prohibitory orders, confronting severe police action and overcoming obstacles like huge truck containers installed on the main roads, thousands of protesters managed to reach D-Chowk, a square near the Parliament House complex, which has been a historic venue for demonstrations.

Intense clashes took place between the protesters and security forces and amidst the chaos, 4 personnel of paramilitary Frontier Corps (FC) and a civilian were killed when a vehicle rammed into them.

A police officer was killed separately.

Many others were injured in the violence and clashes.

The protests are led by Khan’s wife Bushra Bibi, who has vowed not to leave the D-Chowk until the demand for her husband’s release are met.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf is also demanding a rollback of constitutional amendments  which it says have been carried out by the present government headed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to curtail the powers of the judiciary as the latter has criticised the legitimacy of the cases against Khan.

Senior Army Officers review Operational Readiness at LoC in J&K’s Sunderbani Sector

File Photo : GOC White Knight Corps, LT General Naveen Sachdeva

NVI Correspondent

Jammu, Nov 26(NVI): The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the White Knight Corps, LT General Naveen Sachdeva accompanied by senior officers from the Cross Swords Division today conducted a visit to forward areas along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Sunderbani sector of Jammu region.

Defence sources told NVI that during the visit, the GOC interacted with troops deployed in challenging terrain and lauded their unwavering vigilance and dedication to safeguarding national security. The GoC White Knight Corps stressed on the importance of maintaining high levels of operational readiness and professionalism in every mission.

The GOC commended the soldiers for their relentless efforts in ensuring the sanctity of the LoC, often under adverse weather and hostile conditions. “He encouraged all ranks to continue exemplifying discipline and determination in their duties, reinforcing the critical role they play in upholding peace and stability in the area,” the defence sources said.
The visit not only showcased the leadership’s commitment to frontline troops but also served to enhance the morale and motivation of personnel stationed in remote and sensitive areas. (News Vibes of India)

Massive Crackdown on Terror Networks in Jammu Division : Several Suspects, OGWs arrested

File Photo

Sayed Zahid

Jammu, Nov 26(NVI): In a sweeping operation against terror networks, security forces in the Jammu region today conducted extensive searches and raids across several districts, aiming to dismantle eco-system aiding terrorist organizations like Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT).

Police statement to NVI stated that the coordinated efforts led to the identification and arrest of multiple Over Ground Workers (OGWs) and terror suspects, along with the seizure of incriminating materials, including weapons, cash, and electronic devices. Based on actionable intelligence, Police teams carried out meticulously planned raids in over 50 locations across the districts of Rajouri, Poonch, Udhampur, and Reasi.

In Rajouri, nine locations, including Thanamandi, Darhal, Kalakote, Manjakote, and Dharamsal, were searched as part of investigations into two cases linked to terror networks. “These cases, one registered as far back as 2013, revealed attempts by proscribed groups to activate OGWs to facilitate logistics, recruitment, and terror operations,” the statement said, adding that “Searches were conducted at 12 locations, including Surankote, Mandi, Poonch, Mendhar, and Gursai, focusing on disrupting support channels for terror outfits.”

The statement said that in a major operation, raids were carried out at 25 locations in Basantgarh and nearby areas, such as Rai Chak, Chaka, Kadwah, Morha, Kund, and Sang, tied to an investigation under Case FIR No. 27/2024. “Police teams conducted 10 raids in Pouni, Gulabgarh, Arnas, Panassa, and Mahore-Chasana, uncovering networks providing logistical and financial aid to terrorist groups. The arrest of several individuals suspected of aiding terrorist organizations as OGWs.”

Police said recovery of weapons, unaccounted cash, electronic devices, and other incriminating evidence from multiple hideouts. “A strengthened intelligence network, with critical leads emerging for future operations,” the statement said.

Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) lauded the efforts of the teams involved and reiterated the commitment to uproot terrorism from the region. “The information and materials recovered during these raids will aid ongoing investigations and future operations. We are determined to target every element threatening peace in Jammu and Kashmir,” he stated.

He also urged citizens to remain vigilant, report any suspicious activities or individuals in their vicinity, and assist law enforcement in securing the region.

He emphasized that all operations were conducted with care to avoid collateral damage or inconvenience to civilians—(News Vibes of India).

MP Er Rashid Invited to Key India-US Foreign Relations Discussion Amid Incarceration

File Photo : Er Rashid, MP Baramulla.

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, November 26 (NVI): Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) Member of Parliament from Baramulla, Er Rashid has been invited PRS Legislative Research for critical discussions.

AIP Chief spokesman, Inam Un Nabi said that Er Rashid has been invited by PRS Legislative Research to participate in critical discussions designed for Members of Parliament during the ongoing session. These discussions aim to address key national and international issues, including India-US relations, state finances and fiscal devolution (16th Finance Commission), and the role of technology in India’s growth.

Inam Un Nabi stated, “The first session, focusing on India-US relations in light of the recent US elections, is scheduled for Wednesday, 27th November 2024, at 9:00 AM in the Deputy Speaker Hall, Constitution Club of India, New Delhi. Led by Ambassador Arun Singh, this session will offer critical insights into India’s evolving foreign policy, demanding active engagement from all MPs, including Er Rashid.”

The party stressed that such discussions are not just crucial for national policymaking but also for ensuring active and inclusive parliamentary representation Inam Un Nabi added,
“The unjust detention of Er Rashid deprives the Baramulla constituency of representation in critical national debates and decisions. His voice, reflecting the aspirations of nearly 40% of Jammu and Kashmir’s population, must not be silenced.”

Reiterating its demand for interim bail, AIP urged democratic institutions to intervene and ensure Er Rashid’s participation in the ongoing Parliament session. The party emphasized that denying an elected representative his constitutional and democratic rights undermines the essence of democracy and fair governance. (News Vibes of India)

 

LG Manoj Sinha addresses World Crafts Council meet in Srinagar

LG Manoj Sinha addressing World Craft Council's 60th Jubilation meeting at SKICC, Srinagar

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Nov 26(NVI): The Lieutenant Governor reaffirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to fostering integrated development across Jammu and Kashmir, with a special emphasis on creating employment opportunities and promoting the export of handloom and handicraft products.

Addressing the World Craft Council’s 60th Jubilation meeting at SKICC here, the LG spoke of a visionary plan to weave the region’s rich craft traditions into the fabric of tourism, positioning Jammu and Kashmir as a premier cultural destination. This initiative aims to captivate international visitors and invigorate the local economy, creating a harmonious blend of heritage and modern progress.

Calling for active participation from artisans at the grassroots level, the Lieutenant Governor emphasized the goal of self-reliance for the region. He assured artisans and entrepreneurs of full government support in addressing their concerns, fostering growth, and enhancing the global competitiveness of the handloom and handicrafts sector.

Paying homage to Smt. Kamala Devi Chattopadhyay, the Indian craft pioneer and one of the founders of the World Crafts Council, he acknowledged her monumental contributions to the promotion of handicrafts and grassroots movements for social and economic empowerment.

The event was further enriched by the presence of Sh. Sa’ad Hani Al-Qaddumi, President of the World Crafts Council International, who shared the council’s ambitious vision of establishing Srinagar as a global hub for crafts through innovative initiatives.

A significant highlight of the event was the launch of the “Seal of Authenticity of the Craft,” a testament to preserving the beauty and ingenuity of handmade creations.

The Lieutenant Governor toured the Craft Exhibition, engaging with local, national, and international artisans while admiring their remarkable works. Outstanding artisans were felicitated for their exceptional contributions, and the World Crafts Council City Book, commemorating 60 years of the council’s journey, was unveiled.

The event witnessed the presence of prominent dignitaries, including Chief Secretary. Atal Dulloo, Commissioner Secretary of Industries and Commerce . Vikramjit Singh, senior officials, members of the World Crafts Council, and delegates from various countries, uniting in celebration of the region’s vibrant cultural heritage. (News Vibes of India)

Police Crack Down on Illegal Mineral Mining in Awantipora, 3 arrested

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Nov 26(NVI): In a move to curb illegal mineral extraction and transportation, Awantipora Police today arrested three individuals and seized three vehicles involved in the illegal mineral extraction.

A team from Police Station Khrew, led by SHO Khrew, conducted the operation and intercepted three tippers bearing registration numbers JK13B-8211, JK01M-5270, and JK13F-4742.

“The arrested individuals have been identified as–
Tariq Ahmad Shah, son of Mohd Yaseen Shah, resident of Mandakpal,
Mohd Ashraf Shah, son of Jalal Din, resident of Mandakpal and Nisar Ahmad Ahanger, son of Mohd Kamal, resident of Sharshali, ” the police said.

Police said the cases under relevant legal provisions have been registered and further investigations are underway.

The police reaffirm its commitment to tackling illegal mining and urge community members to report such crimes in their localities. (News Vibes  of India)

Poonch woman exfiltrates to PoK, Police launches probe

File Photo

NVI Correspondent

Jammu, Nov 26(NVI):A 28-year-old woman, identified as Fatima Bi, crossed the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district and exfiltrated into Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK), Officials said today.

According to officials, Fatima Bi, a resident of a forward village located in the Kirni sector of Poonch, crossed the border into PoK on Sunday evening under “unclear circumstances.”

The incident has prompted local authorities to take swift action with the police registering a case and initiating an investigation into the matter.

The case is being investigated, including whether she crossed the border voluntarily or under coercion, ” a police official told NVI.

Unauthorized crossings of the LoC, whether by civilians or terrorists, are considered serious security concern.

Further updates from law enforcement agencies are awaited as the probe into Fatima Bi’s exfiltration continues. (News Vibes of India)

Police arrests two drug peddlers in Srinagar, contraband substances recovered

NVI Correspondent,

Srinagar, Nov 26(NVI) : Continuing its efforts to eradicate the menace of drugs from the society, police arrested two drug peddlers in Srinagar and recovered contraband substances from their possession.

Police said today, during naka checking at 90 Feet Road near Matoo Steel, two vehicles (Scooty) bearing registration No JK01AN-6945 and (Zen) bearing registration No. JK01H-5675) were intercepted which were coming simultaneously from Awantabawan and moving towards Elahibagh.

During search of vehicle (Zen Car), 10 grams of Brown Sugar was recovered from the driver of said car. He has been identified as Shabir Ahmed Mir son of Gh. Qadir resident of Bilal Colony Soura. Similarly, during the search of Scooty rider 6 grams of Brown Sugar like substance was recovered from his possession.

The accused rider has been identified as Shah Murtaza Iqbal son of Mohd Iqbal Shah resident of Bilal Colony Soura. They have been arrested and shifted to police station where they remain in custody. Vehicles used in the commission of crime have also been seized.

During questioning, it came to fore that both the accused individuals are chronic drug peddlers and are actively involved in selling of illegal drugs among the youth of District Srinagar especially among the youth of Soura area.

In this regard, a case vide FIR No. 90/2024 under relevant sections of law has been registered at Police Station Soura and further investigation is going on.

Community members are requested to come forward with any information regarding drug peddling in their neighbourhood. Persons found indulging in drug peddling will be dealt as per law. (News Vibes of India)

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