Wednesday, February 4, 2026
Home Blog Page 42

Kashmiri actor Rohman Shawl to portray Indian Army Officer in “Azaadi “

Rohman Shawl playing Indian Army officer in Azaadi.

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 23 (NVI): After garnering widespread acclaim for his gripping portrayal of the antagonist Asif Wani in Amaran, Rohman Shawl is set to return to the screen with an emotionally charged role in his upcoming short film, Azaadi.

The actor, who debuted alongside Sai Pallavi and Sivakarthikeyan in Amaran, impressed audiences with his intense performance as a complex terrorist, cementing his place as a rising star.

Directed by Rajkumar Periasamy, Amaran not only became one of the biggest blockbusters of 2024 but also showcased Shawl’s ability to delve into the depth of dark, multifaceted characters. Now, with Azaadi, Shawl takes on a starkly different role as an Indian Army officer in a tribute to the unsung heroes of the Indian Army and Jammu & Kashmir Police.

“Azaadi” – A Story of Patriotism and Sacrifice
Releasing this Republic Day, Azaadi draws inspiration from real-life incidents and highlights the resilience, courage, and sacrifice of officers serving in Kashmir. Produced by Kara Studios, the film stars Mir Sarwar in a pivotal role and features Abhimanyu Tomar in a guest appearance. The short film has already received accolades at the Jammu Film Festival and the Jharkhand Film Festival, underscoring its impactful story telling.

In Azaadi, Shawl plays Adnan, a steadfast Indian police officer who is captured by militants during a family visit. As Adnan endures severe brutality, his unwavering love for his country and family pushes him to fight for survival. The film promises an emotional journey filled with gripping action, heartfelt moments, and an inspiring tale of resilience.

Rohman Shawl Reflects on His Dual Roles

Shawl, who hails from Kashmir, finds deep personal meaning in Azaadi, as it connects him to his roots. Speaking about the film and his transformative journey in 2024, Shawl shared:
“The release of Amaran and Azaadi has been nothing short of life-changing for me. In the span of two films, I traversed the spectrum of humanity, from protector to destroyer. It’s been both a test and a triumph, and as a Kashmiri, these roles carry the weight of my roots, as well as the universal struggles they reflect. In Azaadi, I play Adnan, an honest police officer wrestling with the moral and emotional chaos of conflict, while in Amaran, I embodied a terrorist driven by darkness and desperation.”

As nation gears up to celebrate its 76th Republic Day, Azaadi aims to honor the bravery and sacrifices of Indian Army and Jammu & Kashmir Police officers. The film not only shines a light on the challenges faced by security forces in conflict zones but also underscores the importance of their contributions to the nation’s safety and integrity.

Adding further depth to his performances, Rohman Shawl’s Kashmiri roots play a crucial role in shaping his artistic perspective. Being born and raised in the Valley, Shawl often draws inspiration from the land’s rich culture and history, as well as its unique struggles. His portrayal of characters in films like Amaran and Azaadi reflects a deep understanding of the complexities of life in Kashmir, making his performances even more authentic and heartfelt. (News Vibes of India)

Arms & Ammunition recovered from Awantipora School ahead of Republic Day

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 23 (NVI): In a major security operation, a cache of arms and ammunition was recovered from a government primary school in Larmooh, Awantipora, South Kashmir’s Pulwama district.

The operation comes at a critical time, just days ahead of Republic Day, when security forces across Jammu and Kashmir are on high alert to prevent any untoward incidents.

Officials told NVI that the joint operation was carried out by the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Army’s 42 Rashtriya Rifles, and the 130 Battalion of the CRPF.

The recovered items included a grenade, an Under Barrel Grenade Launcher (UBGL), electric and non-electric detonators, 10 bullets, and a pistol magazine.

“The recovery of such weapons from an educational institution is alarming and raises concerns about attempts to use public spaces for unlawful activities,” an official said. He added that investigations are underway to identify those responsible for storing the weapons in the school and to determine their intended use.

The incident has heightened security concerns as Republic Day draws closer, with authorities now ramping up surveillance and search operations across the region. Schools, public places, and other sensitive areas are under heightened scrutiny to ensure a peaceful and incident-free celebration.

The use of a government school as a potential hiding spot for weapons has also drawn attention to the vulnerability of such institutions, with calls for increased vigilance and security measures around educational premises. Security experts emphasize the need to uncover and dismantle networks involved in such activities to maintain peace in the region.

The recovery underscores the persistent security challenges in Jammu and Kashmir and the importance of sustained efforts by security forces to neutralize threats, especially during significant national events like Republic Day.(News Vibes of India)

Balochistan: BLA claims killing of 5 Pakistani soldiers in multiple attacks

Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) fighters at some undisclosed location. File Pic.

Quetta, Jan 22 (NVI) Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) tonight claimed to have killed at least 5 personnel of occupying Pakistani military and injured 3 in multiple attacks since yesterday at various places in Balochistan.

The freedom fighters targeted the occupying Pakistani army and mineral-carrying vehicles in three separate attacks in Noshki and Dukki districts of Balochistan, BLA spokesman Jeeyand Baloch said in a statement to NVI.

This afternoon, BLA freedom fighters ambushed a three-vehicle convoy of the occupying Pakistani army at the Gharebabad bypass on the outskirts of Noshki city, he said.

BLA fighters targeted the enemy army with automatic weapons and grenade launchers, killing one enemy soldier and wounding at least three others, he said.

Last night, BLA freedom fighters targeted 5 vehicles involved in the looting of Baloch national resources on the main highway near Zorabad in Noshki, the spokesman said.

The fighters set three vehicles on fire and destroyed them, while two vehicles were disabled by gunfire, he said.

BLA freedom fighters also ambushed and attacked a convoy of the occupying Pakistani army in Dukki last night, he said.

The freedom fighters targeted a 12-vehicle Pakistani army convoy with heavy and automatic weapons, eliminating at least 4 enemy personnel, the spokesman said. (NVI)

Article 370 was designed to protect Dogras, not Kashmiris: Dr Farooq Abdullah

File photo: National Conference President Dr Farooq Abdullah

NVI Correspondent

Jammu, Jan 22(NVI): National Conference (NC) President Dr. Farooq Abdullah today stated that Article 370, often associated with Kashmir, was originally introduced to protect the rights and land of the Dogras in Jammu.

Speaking at a gathering in Jammu, Dr. Abdullah explained that the provision was enacted in 1927 by the Maharajas to prevent residents from Punjab from settling in the region and ensure the land remained with the Dogras. “It wasn’t brought for Kashmiris but to safeguard Dogra interests. No one will settle in Kashmir because they fear the Muslim population,” he remarked.

Dr. Abdullah criticized the narrative that Hindus in India are under threat, calling it baseless. “With 80% of the population, how can there be a threat? The real threats facing India today are internal, not external,” he said.

He also took aim at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), blaming the late Mufti Mohammad Sayeed for aligning with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the past. “We (NC), along with the Congress and other parties, had offered support to form the government, but he refused and chose to partner with the BJP instead. The PDP needs to introspect on its decisions,” he added.

Dr. Abdullah emphasized that the current Omar Abdullah-led government is dedicated to serving the people of Jammu and Kashmir and cannot be dictated by any external force. He urged workers to reflect on the past and focus on rebuilding for a better future.(News Vibes of India)

Mysterious Illness : 3 more fresh cases reported at Budhal village in Rajouri

Representational Image

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 22(NVI): The mysterious illness in Rajouri’s Budhal area continues to raise alarm, with three new cases reported in the past 24 hours.

The death toll has now risen to 17 over the last 50 days, prompting intensified efforts by authorities to identify the cause.

A local health official confirmed that a 25-year-old resident showing symptoms of the illness was initially treated at GMC Jammu and later referred to PGI Chandigarh for advanced medical care. Two additional cases have since been identified and are also being transferred for specialized treatment.

Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Ramesh Kumar, visited the affected district to oversee containment measures and ensure proper monitoring. The government has declared Badhaal a containment zone, sealing the houses of affected families and shifting their close contacts to GMC Rajouri for screening.

Although investigations are underway, the cause of the illness remains unclear. Officials have ruled out the presence of any known virus or infection in the area. Medical teams are stationed in the village to monitor the situation and provide immediate assistance.

Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant and report any symptoms to healthcare centers. (News Vibes of India)

Fresh Snowfall blankets Gulmarg, Warmer nights persist across Kashmir

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 22 (NVI): Kashmir’s renowned ski resort, Gulmarg, has been adorned with a fresh layer of snow, receiving 11.2 mm in the past 24 hours, much to the delight of tourists. The Valley’s plains, including parts of Jammu, also witnessed light to moderate rainfall during the same period.

According to the Meteorological Centre in Srinagar, several areas in Jammu and Kashmir, including the higher reaches of the Chenab Valley and the Pir Panjal Range, are expected to see light to moderate snowfall on January 23. The plains will likely experience another spell of rain. However, the weather is forecasted to remain predominantly dry between January 24 and 28, with slight chances of precipitation in isolated locations from January 29 to 31.

The night temperatures across the Kashmir Valley have shown a significant rise, recorded 3°C to 6°C above normal at many weather stations. Srinagar’s minimum temperature improved to 0.6°C, 2.9°C above average for the season. Pahalgam recorded a low of -4.2°C, 2.7°C higher than normal.

In contrast, Gulmarg remains the coldest spot in the valley, with temperatures plummeting to -8.5°C, slightly below the seasonal norm. Despite this, the snowfall has further enhanced the resort’s charm for winter sports enthusiasts.

Meanwhile, Qazigund, the gateway to Kashmir, and Kokernag also reported warmer nights, with minimum temperatures recorded at 1.6°C and 1.2°C, respectively. Kupwara saw a slight increase in temperature to 1.2°C, 4.9°C above average for this time of the year.

The fresh snowfall and improved temperatures have drawn tourists to the valley, boosting local tourism. However, residents remain cautious about potential disruptions in higher altitudes and infrastructure challenges due to the shifting weather patterns.

As Kashmir embraces the beauty of winter, the coming days promise a blend of snow and sun, providing an ideal backdrop for visitors and locals alike.(News Vibes of India)

Budhal village in Rajouri declared containment zone amid Health crisis; Section 163 imposed

NVI Correspondent

Badhal, Jan 22(NVI): The District Magistrate has declared the village of Badhal village in Rajouri district a containment zone, enforcing stringent measures under Section 163 of the BNSS Act, replacing the earlier Section 144 of the CrPC.

The move comes in response to a suspected health crisis that has raised alarms in the area.

Houses belonging to affected families have been sealed, and the village has been divided into three zones to streamline containment efforts. All public and private gatherings have been banned, and strict protocols are in place to minimize the spread of the crisis. Officials are also monitoring the preparation and distribution of meals to families within the containment zones, ensuring adherence to hygiene and safety standards.

The measures come amidst growing concerns over a mysterious illness that has gripped parts of Rajouri district, claiming 16 lives as of last week. Though it is yet to be confirmed whether the developments in Badhal are directly related to the outbreak in Rajouri, the district administration is leaving no stone unturned to prevent further escalation.

The mysterious illness in Rajouri has already prompted visits from high-ranking officials, including Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary and Health Minister Sakina Itoo, who recently traveled to the affected areas. Preliminary investigations are underway, with medical teams deployed to identify the cause of the outbreak.

In Badhal, local residents have been urged to stay indoors and comply with the authorities’ instructions. Medical teams are reportedly conducting door-to-door surveys to identify symptomatic individuals and provide immediate care.

A senior official stated, “Our priority is to contain the situation and ensure the safety of residents. These measures are temporary but essential. We appeal to the public to cooperate fully with the administration.”

Security has also been tightened in and around the containment zone to prevent any unauthorized movement. Meanwhile, health experts are racing against time to determine the cause of the illness and implement remedial measures.

The administration has assured that all necessary resources, including medical supplies and rations, are being provided to affected families. Further updates are expected as the situation unfolds. (News Vibes of India)

Srinagar Police crack down on Drug Trafficking, seize Major Consignment from courier service

Representational Image

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Jan 21(NVI): In a decisive move against the growing menace of drug trafficking, Srinagar Police today successfully intercepted a large consignment of illegal drugs that was being smuggled through a courier service in the Karan Nagar area of Srinagar

The operation, which was based on credible intelligence, was carried out at the premises of Shree Maruti Courier Service located in the Chota Bazar area of Srinagar.

The police conducted a thorough search of the courier office after obtaining the necessary legal approvals. This led to the discovery and seizure of a significant quantity of illegal drugs, including:

Mavrix-T Codeine Syrup: 220 bottles, known for its abuse as an intoxicating substance.

Spasmoproxyvon Capsules: 15 boxes, with 7 strips per box, commonly misused as a painkiller with addictive properties.

Pregabalin Tablets: 60 strips, often exploited for its psychoactive effects.

A case has been registered under FIR No. 01/2025 at Police Station Karan Nagar, and an extensive investigation is underway. The police are working to uncover both the forward and backward linkages of this trafficking network, aiming to identify and dismantle the entire supply chain.

In addition to the investigation, a manhunt has been launched to apprehend the individuals responsible for orchestrating this illegal trade. Authorities believe that the seizure is part of a larger trafficking operation, and efforts are being made to trace and capture all those involved.

Speaking about the operation, a senior police official highlighted the alarming trend of drug abuse in the region and reiterated the commitment of Srinagar Police to eradicate the drug menace. “This seizure is a significant step in our ongoing fight against narcotics trafficking. We urge citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. Combating the drug problem requires collective effort from both the police and the community,” the official said.

This operation underscores the increasing sophistication of drug traffickers, who are now exploiting courier services to transport illegal substances. The police have intensified surveillance and are implementing stricter measures to prevent such incidents in the future.

The crackdown has been widely appreciated by the local community, which has long expressed concerns about the rising drug problem in the region. Srinagar Police have reassured the public of their continued efforts to build a safer, drug-free society. (News Vibes of India)

Mystery deepens over 17 deaths in Rajouri’s Budhal village : CM Omar Abdullah

File Photo : CM Omar Abdullah

NVI Correspondent

Jammu Jan 21(NVI): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today revealed that the cause behind the 17 unexplained deaths in Budhal village, Rajouri district, is still unknown, with authorities intensifying efforts to uncover the reason.

Speaking after visiting the village, Abdullah stressed the government’s immediate focus on preventing further fatalities. “Our priority is to ensure this cycle of deaths stops here and does not go beyond 17,” he said.

He stated that health officials have conducted extensive tests, ruling out any bacterial or viral infections as the cause. “All the deaths have occurred within three families, but so far, we have not been able to pinpoint the reason,” he noted.

In light of the uncertainty, police have launched an investigation, forming a special team to probe the case. Additionally, a central government team is collaborating with local authorities to determine the underlying cause of these tragic deaths.

The incident has sparked widespread concern, with the government promising a thorough investigation to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected community.(News Vibes of India)

Youth shot dead in broad daylight at Jammu’s Jewel Chowk

Representational Image

NVI Correspondent

Jammu, Jan 21(NVI): In a shocking incident of alleged gang violence, a 37-year-old man, identified as Sumit Jandyal, son of Om Parkash from Vijaypur’s Ward 9, was shot dead in broad daylight at the busy Jewel Chowk area of Jammu district today.

According to sources, unidentified assailants fired multiple rounds at Jandyal’s red Thar (registration number JK21-G-0770), critically injuring him. The attackers fled the scene before police could intervene. The victim was rushed to GMC Jammu Hospital, where doctors pronounced him dead on arrival.

Senior police officials, including ADGP Jammu Zone Anand Jain, DIG Shiv Kumar Sharma, and SSP Jammu, visited the site. Speaking to the media, ADGP Jain attributed the incident to an inter-gang rivalry involving the Gataru Gang of Vijaypur-Samba, ruling out any terror link.

A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been constituted to probe the case, and a massive manhunt is underway in Jammu and Samba to nab the perpetrators. The vehicle has been seized, and further investigations are ongoing.

This brazen act of violence has raised concerns about the escalating gang-related tensions in the region, prompting calls for stronger preventive measures.(News Vibes of India)

MUST READ