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2 Soldiers Dead, 3 Critical as Army Vehicle Falls Into Gorge in Bandipora district

File Photo :

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 04(NVI): In a tragic incident, two soldiers lost their lives, and three others were critically injured after an Army vehicle fell into a deep gorge in the SK Payeen area of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district today.

According to officials, the Army vehicle was traveling along the Bandipora-Srinagar road when it skidded off the road near SK Payeen, possibly due to poor road conditions or loss of control, and plunged into a deep gorge. The incident occurred in a mountainous region known for its treacherous terrain, which poses a constant challenge to commuters, especially during winter.

Emergency services rushed to the spot immediately after the accident. Locals and rescue teams worked together to pull the injured soldiers from the wreckage. All five personnel were taken to the district hospital in Bandipora for treatment. However, despite efforts by the medical team, two soldiers were declared dead on arrival.

The three remaining soldiers, who suffered critical injuries, are being moved to Srinagar for advanced medical care. Their condition is said to be serious but stable.

The Army and local authorities have launched an investigation into the incident to determine the exact cause of the accident. Preliminary findings suggest that the vehicle may have skidded due to icy road conditions, a common hazard in the region during this time of year.

This incident highlights the harsh realities faced by the armed forces operating in difficult and remote terrains, where such accidents are not uncommon. The loss of lives and injuries is a stark reminder of the risks involved in their service to the nation.

Further updates on the condition of the injured soldiers and the findings of the investigation are awaited. (News Vibes of India)

In 2024, killed 1284 Pakistani soldiers, injured 1661, says TTP

Fighters of Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). File pic

Peshawar, Jan 3 (NVI) Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has claimed to have killed 1284 personnel of the Pakistani armed forces and injured 1661 in 1758 operations during the outgoing year 2024.

The maximum number of 262 operations against the Pakistani military took place in the month of September, according to the detailed report of the activities of TTP in the year 2024 shared by the Islamist organisation with NVI.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province witnessed most of the operations of the TTP, even though some “activities” took place in Punjab and Sindh provinces.

Some actions took place in Pakistan-occupied Balochistan and Gilgit-Baltistan.

In Khyber Pakthunkhwa Province, Dera Ismail Khan district saw the maximum 645 operations, followed by 482 in Bannu district, 308 in Peshawar district, 166 in Malakand district and 65 in Kohat district, according to the report.

The report said the month of January witnessed 75 operations, February saw 65 operations, March saw 66, April recorded 96, May 99, June 96, July 146, August 243, September 262, October 220, November 208 and December 182.

Among the types of operations, 641 were Sniper/Laser attacks, 363 were Guerrilla attacks, 219 were ambushes, 170 were Grenade attacks/bombings, 134 were Counterattacks, 129 were Conflict attacks, 81 were Targeted attacks, 19 were missile attacks while 3 were suicide attacks.

These operations resulted in 1441 casualties (death and injuries) of personnel in the Army and SSG, 820 casualties in Police/Counter-Terrorism Department, 578 in Frontier Corps and 106 in Secret services, it said.

 

The TTP cadres also “arrested” 49 Pakistani military personnel and their assets during this period.

These operations also led to the destruction of 172 military vehicles, 40 different military constructions, 15 police mobiles, 11 tanks and tankers, 2 solar systems, 1 motorcycle and a large quantity of military equipment, it said.

The TTP seized from the Pakistani military 73 Kalashnikov rifles (AK assault rifles), 38 rocket shells, 36 G3 guns, 7 MG1 guns, 6 pistols, 6 laser guns, 6 different binoculars, 3 cameras, 5 rocket launchers, 2 cars, 1 pc, 1 MP5 gun, 1 mortar, 1 sniper, 1 motorcycle, dozens of magazines of weapons and thousands of bullets.

Cash, mobiles and various other military equipment were also seized from the soldiers, it said. (NVI)

Police arrest six drug peddlers across Kashmir Valley, Contraband substances seized

Representational Picture

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 03 (NVI) Continuing its efforts to eradicate the menace of drugs from society, the police have arrested six drug peddlers across the Kashmir valley and recovered significant quantities of contraband substances from their possession.

In Anantnag, a police team during a naka checking at Bypass near Ganjiwada, intercepted a suspicious individual. Upon search, 400 grams of charas were recovered from his possession. The accused has been identified as Zakir Ahmad Zargar, son of Gh. Rasool, a resident of Papibal Anantnag. In another instance, a team from Police Post Dialgam, during a checkpoint at Bonadialgam near Bypass, apprehended Aamir Hussain Malik, son of Ab. Hameed Malik, a resident of Pushwara Khanabal, and seized 350 grams of charas from him.

In Baramulla, a police team from Police Station Uri, during a checkpoint at Paranpeelan-Bandi Crossing, intercepted Mohd Showkat Awan, son of Atta Mohammad, a resident of Dawaran. A search led to the recovery of 1.7 kg of cannabis powder. He has been taken into custody.

In Budgam, a police team from PS Beerwah, during a checkpoint at Charangam village, apprehended Waheed Ahmad Magray, son of Nazir Ahmad Magray, a resident of Charangam Beerwah. During a search, 76 grams of charas (wrapped in corn husk) and a mobile phone were recovered.

In Awantipora, the police arrested two individuals during naka checking in the jurisdiction of PS Awantipora. A total of 12.2 kg of brown sugar-like substance was recovered from Muzaffer Ahmad Dar, son of Mohd Sadiq Dar, a resident of Bonpora Lethpora, and Riyaz Ahmad Mir, son of Abdul Gaffar Mir, a resident of Chati Mohalla Khunmoh Pantha Chowk.

All accused have been arrested and remain in custody at their respective police stations. Cases under relevant sections of law have been registered, and further investigations are underway.

The police have urged the public to cooperate in curbing the drug menace and reassured community members of their commitment to taking strict action against those involved in such illegal activities. (News Vibes of India)

BJP Youth Wing Leader injured after being fired over parking dispute in Jammu

NVI Correspondent

Jammu, Jan 03 ( NVI): Advocate Kanav Sharma, president of the Bharatiya Janata Party Yuva Morcha (BJP’s youth wing) and son of senior BJP leader Chander Mohan Sharma, was injured in a shooting incident today in the New Plot area of Jammu.

Preliminary reports suggest the shooting was triggered by a parking dispute. Unidentified assailants opened fire on Sharma, leaving him injured. He was initially rushed to Sarwal Hospital for emergency treatment and later referred to the Government Medical College Jammu for specialized care.

Police have launched an investigation to identify the attackers and determine the exact motive. “We are gathering evidence and exploring all angles,” officials confirmed.

Further updates on Sharma’s condition and the progress of the investigation are awaited. ( News Vibes of India)

Police seize illicit timber in Baramulla district, Three Arrested

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 03 ( NVI): In a significant operation to curb illegal timber smuggling, police in Baramulla district of North Kashmir have seized illicit timber and arrested three individuals involved in the crime.

A police team intercepted a Tata 207 vehicle carrying nine timber logs at Drung Crossing during a routine checkpoint. Upon questioning, it was revealed that the timber was being transported without the necessary permissions. The vehicle, along with the smuggled timber, was seized on the spot, and the three accused were taken into custody.

The arrested individuals have been identified as:
Mehraj Ahmad Khan, son of Ab Majeed Khan, resident of Nowgam Khag, Mohammed Amin Lone, son of Ab Gaffar Lone, resident of Drung and Owais Ahmad Parrey, son of Ab Ahad Parrey, resident of Soibugh Budgam.

A case has been registered under FIR No. 01/2025 at Police Station Tangmarg, and further investigation is underway.

This operation reflects the police’s commitment to safeguarding natural resources and cracking down on illegal activities. Authorities have urged citizens to report any suspicious activities related to forest produce to their nearest police station. ( News Vibes of India)

GoC 16 Corps, Senior Army officers, review security along LoC in Poonch & Rajouri districts

NVI Correspondent

Jammu, Jan 03(NVI): The General Officer Commanding (GoC) of the 16 Corps Lieutenant General Navin Sachdeva along with the senior army officers today conducted an important visit to forward posts along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Poonch and Rajouri districts to review the current security situation and assess the operational preparedness of the troops in the area.

A defence spokesman said that the visit comes at a time of heightened vigilance and operational focus, with the security forces on high alert along the LoC due to the ongoing challenges in the region.

During the visit, both GoC 16 Corps Sachdeva commended the troops for their exceptional dedication and commitment to maintaining peace and security in these border areas. They stressed the importance of staying vigilant and responsive to any potential threats or developments, underscoring the critical role that the soldiers play in safeguarding the region’s stability and peace.

In addition to the security review, the GOCs also engaged with a group of trainee IAS officers, engaging in a robust discussion on key topics such as national security, governance, and the need for enhanced civil-military synergy. The conversation highlighted the importance of coordination between the armed forces and civilian institutions to address the challenges of governance, security, and development. The session emphasized how both sectors can work together to strengthen the nation’s security apparatus and promote a more resilient and united India. (News Vibes of India)

Any change to Kashmir’s name requires elected Government approval: CM Omar

File Photo : J&K CM Omar Abdullah

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 03(NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah firmly stated today that any change to the region’s name would not be possible without the express approval of the elected government.

Speaking to reporters outside his residence in Gupkar, Omar underscored the necessity of following constitutional and legal procedures for such a significant decision, making it clear that no unilateral or external influence could alter the region’s name.

His comments came after reports that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had been misquoted. Omar clarified that certain statements attributed to Shah had been inaccurately reported by some media outlets and called for rectifying the misinformation.

On the topic of winter preparedness, the Chief Minister reassured residents that the administration is fully equipped to handle the challenges of snow and extreme cold weather. “We are fully prepared for the vagaries of snow and freezing temperatures,” Omar said, highlighting the measures in place to manage the harsh winter conditions anticipated in the coming days.

While discussing infrastructure issues, Omar acknowledged the ongoing power outages in some areas, which have been causing inconvenience. He assured the public that efforts are underway to minimize power cuts, with improvements already seen compared to previous years. He expressed confidence that the current efforts to enhance the power supply infrastructure would ensure fewer disruptions, despite the challenges posed by the winter weather. (News Vibes of India)

Dense fog envelopes Srinagar as Kashmir braces for snowfall on January 5

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 03 (NVI): Kashmir continues to reel under a severe cold wave as a thick layer of fog covered Srinagar and its neighboring areas, reducing visibility and affecting daily life.

With temperatures plunging well below freezing point, residents are struggling to cope with the biting cold.

The Meteorological Department has predicted a fresh spell of snowfall and rain starting January 5, which is expected to provide some relief from the extreme cold while also signaling the onset of peak winter activity.

The summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir recorded a low of -2.2°C, as foggy conditions made commuting challenging for residents.

Pahalgam: The picturesque hill station and base camp for the annual Amarnath Yatra recorded a temperature of -4.5°C, adding to its winter allure.

Gulmarg: The world-famous ski resort also registered -4.5°C, with fresh snow anticipated to enhance skiing and other winter sports activities.

Budgam: The district reported -3.2°C, contributing to the widespread cold wave across the valley.

Ganderbal: Temperatures here dropped to -4.3°C, signaling a harsh winter spell.

Bandipora: This northern district recorded -2.5°C, with cold winds making conditions even more difficult.

Baramulla: The coldest among the listed districts, Baramulla saw temperatures dip to -4.8°C.

Impact of the Cold Wave and Snowfall Forecast

The anticipated snowfall is expected to rejuvenate the region’s winter tourism industry, especially in hotspots like Gulmarg and Pahalgam, which are likely to see an influx of tourists eager to experience snow-covered landscapes and participate in winter sports. Hoteliers and tour operators are gearing up for the season, hoping for a significant boost in business.

However, while the snowfall will add to the beauty of the valley, it may also bring challenges. Authorities are preparing for potential disruptions in air and road traffic due to snow-covered runways and slippery roads.

The Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, a critical link to the valley, may face closures due to adverse weather, impacting supply chains and travel plans.

Residents, especially in remote areas, have been urged to stock up on essential supplies as the harsh weather might result in temporary isolation. The authorities have also advised travelers to stay updated on weather advisories and plan their journeys accordingly.

The fresh snow and rain are also likely to impact power supply and water resources in several parts of the valley. Efforts are being made by the administration to ensure uninterrupted essential services, but people have been asked to brace for possible disruptions.

Safety Measures and Precautions

With temperatures expected to drop further in the coming days, experts recommend the following precautions:

Wear multiple layers of warm clothing and cover extremities to prevent frostbite.

Use heating appliances with caution to avoid accidents.

Drive carefully on foggy and potentially icy roads, ensuring headlights and fog lamps are in working condition.

Follow travel advisories, especially in hilly and avalanche-prone areas.

While the Kashmir Valley’s winters are renowned for their beauty and charm, they also come with challenges that require careful planning and preparation. As the region braces for snowfall, it promises a magical winter for tourists while posing hurdles for residents.

( News Vibes of India)

 

Security Forces foil IED threat on Mahore-Gulabgarh Road in Reasi district

Representational Picture

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 2 (NVI): Security forces today detected and neutralized an improvised explosive device (IED) on the Mahore-Gulabgarh road near Angrala in Reasi district, Jammu and Kashmir.

The Indian Army’s Rashtriya Rifles, in coordination with the Jammu and Kashmir Police, acted swiftly to secure the area, ensuring the safety of civilians and security personnel.

In a statement, the Army said, “Alert troops of Rashtriya Rifles detected an IED on the Mahore-Gulabgarh road near Angrala, Reasi. The area was secured in conjunction with Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the IED was neutralized, ensuring the safety of civilians and troops.”

This incident underscores the ongoing vigilance of security forces in maintaining peace and preventing potential threats in the district. (News Vibes of India)

J&K ACB investigates a massive recruitment scam in Fire & Emergency Services Department

NVI Correspondent

Jammu, Jan 02 (NVI): The Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) has registered an FIR to investigate significant irregularities in the recruitment process for Fireman and Fireman Drivers in the Fire & Emergency Services (F&ES) Department.

An official statement said that the investigation comes after allegations of paper leaks, favoritism, and deliberate manipulation of the selection process during the 2020 recruitment drive.

The case originated from a report submitted by an inquiry committee formed by the General Administration Department (GAD). The committee had recommended a criminal investigation into allegations of paper leakage and irregularities in the recruitment process, which has now been taken up by the ACB.

The recruitment process for these posts initially started in 2013 under Advertisement Notice No. 01 of 2013. However, due to discrepancies, the selection process was terminated in 2016. In 2018, following a court order, the recruitment process was restarted under the same advertisement with directions to conduct it through a Transparent Recruitment Process (TRP). A Hyderabad-based firm, M/s Timing Technologies India Pvt. Ltd, was hired to oversee the physical and written tests. Allegations of mass copying in the written test led to its cancellation in 2019, and the government ordered a fresh examination with a new TRP agency.

In 2020, the Directorate of F&ES issued a tender to select a TRP agency. While the lowest bidder, M/s UMC Technology Pvt. Ltd., met the required criteria, the contract was controversially awarded to the second-lowest bidder, M/s LMES IT LLP, Jammu. Investigations revealed that LMES IT LLP lacked the required experience and was awarded the contract without justification. Notably, Maharaj Krishan Wali, a key partner in LMES IT LLP, had previously been associated with the earlier TRP agency, raising further concerns about favoritism.

The ACB probe found that the selection process was heavily manipulated. Question papers were beyond the comprehension of candidates with the prescribed minimum qualification of 8th grade. A review of OMR sheets revealed that 109 selected candidates scored below the cutoff marks but were fraudulently shown as having secured higher marks in the final selection list. In one instance, candidates who actually scored 11, 17, and 24 marks were shown as having secured 90 marks each. Cases of favoritism were also exposed, including the selection of five real brothers from Budgam and several relatives of officials in the F&ES Department.

By manipulating the selection process, members of the Departmental Recruitment Board, Technical Committee, and officials of the F&ES Department are alleged to have conferred undue benefits upon themselves and their associates. The ACB has charged them under multiple sections of the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 (as amended in 2018), and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including criminal conspiracy and forgery.

The ACB has registered FIR No. 01/2025 in Police Station ACB Central and stated that further investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the scam and hold all responsible parties accountable.(News Vibes of India)

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