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Jammu and Kashmir: PDP MLA welcomes Magisterial Probe ordered by Lt Governor into Ganderbal Encounter

PDP MLA Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi

Jammu, Apr 4 (NVI): Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) MLA Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi on Saturday welcomed the decision of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to order a magisterial inquiry into the recent encounter in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, saying the move would help bring out the truth.

Speaking to reporters outside the Assembly complex here, Mehdi said concerns raised by the family of the deceased youth must be addressed through a fair and transparent investigation.

“The apprehensions expressed by the family need to be looked into. It is important that the probe is conducted in a transparent manner so that the truth comes out,” he said.

The MLA termed the LG’s decision to order a time-bound inquiry, with directions to submit the report within a week, as a “positive and welcome step.”

“We have to wait for the findings, but this is certainly a good development. It is perhaps for the first time that such a probe has been ordered at this level,” Mehdi said.

He also referred to past incidents, alleging that there have been cases where innocent people were wrongly targeted, and expressed hope that the latest move would ensure accountability.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha had on Friday ordered a magisterial probe into the encounter in Ganderbal and directed the district administration to complete the inquiry within seven days.(NVi)

BRO, J&K Police Rescue 38 Vehicles in Overnight Operation on Bandipora–Gurez Road
85-km Artery Shut Amid Adverse Conditions; Traffic Suspended

Srinagar, April 4 (NVI): In a major overnight rescue operation, the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) in coordination with Jammu & Kashmir Police successfully evacuated 38 stranded vehicles on the strategic Bandipora–Gurez road, officials said on Saturday.

The swift action came amid difficult weather and road conditions that left several vehicles stuck along the high-altitude stretch. Rescue teams worked through the night to ensure the safe evacuation of commuters, preventing any casualties.

Meanwhile, authorities have ordered the closure of the 85-km-long Bandipora–Gurez road for vehicular movement as a precautionary measure. Officials said the decision was taken considering safety concerns due to prevailing conditions.

Passengers have been advised to avoid travel on the route until further notice, while restoration work and weather assessment are underway.(NVI)

Jhelum, Tributaries Flow Normal Across Kashmir; No Flood Threat: I&FC

Srinagar, April 4 (NVI): The Irrigation & Flood Control (I&FC) Department on Saturday reported that the water levels in River Jhelum and its tributaries across Kashmir Valley are flowing well within safe limits, with no flood threat at present.

According to the 9:00 AM gauge reading, the River Jhelum recorded 6.63 ft at Sangam, 0.53 metres at Pampore, 7.05 ft at Munshibagh, and 4.83 ft at Asham, all significantly below alarm levels. The level at Wullar Lake stood at 1574.08 metres, also within normal range.

Among tributaries, Vishow Nallah at Khudwani, Rambiyara at Wachi, Lidder at Batkoot, Doodhganga at Barzulla, and Sindh at Doderhama were all recorded below danger marks, indicating stable flow conditions.

Officials said the overall hydrological situation remains calm and under control, with continuous monitoring in place. “There is no cause for concern as all rivers and streams are flowing normally,” the department said.(NVI)

Balochistan: BLA claims killing of 86 personnel of Pakistani forces in 65 coordinated attacks
The simultaneous attacks were carried out in a span of 4 days from March 29 to April 1

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

Quetta, Apr 3: Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) tonight said it has killed over 86 Pakistani soldiers and associated militia personnel and wounded dozens of others in multiple coordinated attacks across Balochistan.

Simultaneous attacks, totalling 65, were launched on the Pakistani military on March 29 and continued till April 1, BLA spokesman Jeeyand Baloch said in a statement.

The operations by BLA fighters were carried out in Panjgur, Shapuk, Basima, Sibi, Mastung, Quetta, Nushki, Zamuran, Dasht, Surab, Jhal Magsi, Dalbandin, Kharan, Washuk, and Kalat districts of Balochistan, he said.

These attacks targeted occupying army camps, an airbase, radar systems, communication towers, railway tracks, bridges, and gas pipelines, while major highways were brought under control for several hours, the spokesman said.

In these actions, more than 86 personnel of the occupying army, death squads, and personnel of intelligence agencies were killed, and dozens were injured, he added.

During clashes with the occupying forces, BLA lost 6 fighters — 5 in Panjgur district and one in Zamuran district.

The spokesman identified them as as Zahid, Saeedullah, Jahanzeb, Aamir, Saddam and Abdust (Abdul Rehman).

Operational Details:

March 29: At midnight on Sunday, Sarmachars attacked “death squad” hideouts formed by the occupying Pakistani army in Panjgur, while direct clashes occurred with the occupying army at five locations. In the Garmakan area, Sarmachars attacked the hideout of death squad operative Shahid and successfully took control after a skirmish. Two death squad members were killed, while Shahid fled with others. Sarmachars set fire to two vehicles belonging to the military operative Shahid and destroyed the hideout using installed IEDs.

Another unit of Sarmachars attacked the hideout of death squad leader Kalimullah in Garmakan. within fifteen minutes, they seized the location, however, the operative escaped with his associates. Sarmachars destroyed the surveillance cameras and three vehicles before demolishing the hideout with IEDs. In Garmakan, the occupying army attempted to advance via foot and vehicles but was intercepted by Sarmachars, leading to a clash in which four occupying personnel were killed and several injured. During this engagement, BLA Sarmachar Sangat Zahid, alias Nawaz, attained martyrdom.

Another prolonged clash took place between Garmakan and Washbod as the occupying army advanced to besiege the area. At least six occupying personnel were killed, while BLA Sarmachars Sangat Saeedullah, alias Meraj, and Sangat Jahanzeb, alias Qambar Jan, were martyred. In Khudabadan, Sarmachars seized the hideout of death squad leader Farhan, killing four operatives and confiscating eight weapons before destroying the facility with IEDs. Sangat Aamir, alias Khalid, was martyred during this clash. At the same location, further intense fighting resulted in four enemy deaths. Sangat Saddam, alias Shavez, was wounded and safely moved by Sarmachars but succumbed to his injuries the following day.

Sarmachars also took control of Football Chowk and began snap-checking. A Vigo vehicle belonging to a “death squad” was targeted, killing four operatives. Subsequently, the occupying army’s attempt to advance was repelled by Sarmachars equipped with thermal and modern weaponry, resulting in multiple enemy casualties. During these operations, four quadcopters were shot down, and various weapons, including two M4s, five Kalashnikovs, one LMG, one RPG, and a thermal scope, were seized.

March 29: In Shapuk, Kech, Sarmachars targeted the main camp of the occupying Pakistani army with heavy weaponry, killing three personnel during a 30-minute assault. In Rutinko, Basima, an attack on an occupying post left two soldiers dead. In Sibi and Nasirabad, five main electricity transmission towers were destroyed using explosives. Sarmachars also attacked an army convoy in Lamji, Sibi, and established checkpoints for snap-checking in Dhadar and Kat Mundai.

In Kaanak, Mastung, Sarmachars seized a Levies check post, confiscated weapons, and burned the facility and vehicles. In Quetta, the main army camp and Military Intelligence (MI) office at Agriculture Colony were targeted with grenade launchers, killing two personnel and injuring five. A police vehicle was also hit in Akhtarabad. Furthermore, railway bridges and tracks were destroyed at nine different points in the Tirah Mile and Irrigation Colony areas of Quetta.

In Lataar, Basima, an attack using thermal scopes on an army camp resulted in two deaths. In Nushki, railway tracks were blown up at five locations in Battu Landi, Ahmad Wal, and Gomazi. In Sui, Dera Bugti, a gas pipeline was destroyed in Mohammad Colony. In Zamuran, Sarmachars launched a multi-directional attack on the main army camp at Sarkiza Aap-Tunk, killing five personnel in total. Sangat Abdust Aziz, alias Almaan, attained martyrdom during this engagement. In Surab, a convoy was ambushed on the main highway, killing four soldiers and resulting in one quadcopter being shot down.

March 30: In Kotro, Jhal Magsi, Sarmachars seized a police station, killing one officer and injuring two others, including an SHO. While the occupying forces attempted to use civilians as human shields, the Sarmachars successfully completed the operation while avoiding public harm; the detained officer was later released at the request of local elders. Later that afternoon, an eight-vehicle convoy was ambushed on Kotro-Noorani Road, resulting in nine deaths and over ten injuries. Two vehicles were destroyed, and military equipment, including drones and mortar shells was seized from a disabled vehicle before it was set on fire.

In Dalbandin, Sarmachars seized a Levies post and a mining site in Siah Chang. Machinery was destroyed, and 14 weapons were confiscated. In Kharan, mortar and rocket attacks on the army camp in Patkin caused heavy losses. In Washuk, several BM-12 rockets were successfully fired at the Shamshi Airbase. A gas pipeline was also destroyed on Quetta’s Western Bypass.

March 31: A communication tower was destroyed in Sibi. In Dasht Kadan, Kech, Sarmachars took full control of the area, including the Levies station and NADRA office. Attacks on an army camp and an armored vehicle resulted in seven deaths. In Manguchar, Kalat, nine locations, including multiple military camps and posts were targeted simultaneously, killing eight personnel. Notably, the BLA’s aerial and drone warfare unit, QAHR (Qazi Aero Hive Rangers), conducted five drone strikes on the Manguchar College camp, killing three and injuring five.

Additional attacks in Surab, Mastung (Lakpass, Kambela, Marrow), and Spilinji resulted in over 12 casualties. A radar system was destroyed in Kambela, and the Quetta-Taftan highway was held for four hours. In Turbat, the MI office was targeted, and in Quetta, an MI agent named Ehtisham Gujjar was neutralized.

April 1: In Zamuran, a vehicle carrying rations for the occupying army was intercepted and disabled. Later, motorcycle-borne personnel were targeted with an IED during an attempted advance. In Nushki, an empty military post used for convoy security was demolished with explosives.

The Martyrs:

Shaheed Sangat Zahid, alias Nawaz (son of Sher Mohammad): A resident of Gichk, Panjgur, he joined the armed struggle in 2016 and became part of the BLA in 2023. He was a fearless warrior and an experienced Sarmachar who served on the fronts of Gichk, Kilkor, Ornach, Rakhshan, and Panjgur. Shaheed Sangat Saeedullah, alias Meraj (son of Adil Jan): Originally from Raghay, Washuk, he joined in April 2025 and proved his bravery as a frontline soldier in Guargo and Panjgur. Shaheed Sangat Jahanzeb, alias Qambar (son of Bahram): A resident of Nokabad, Tasp, he joined in January 2025. His ideological commitment and military dedication dealt severe blows to the enemy in Nagahu and Panjgur.

Shaheed Sangat Aamir, alias Khalid (son of Dr. Abdul Wahid): From Khudabadan, Panjgur, he served as an urban guerrilla from 2022 before moving to the mountain front in 2024. He performed valuable services in the Kilkor, Guargo, Parom, and Panjgur sectors. Shaheed Sangat Saddam, alias Shavez (son of Altaf): From Kalag, Kech, he joined the BLA in 2025 and was a hardworking Sarmachar who completed several successful missions in Paroom and Kilkor. Shaheed Sangat Abdust Aziz (Abdul Rehman), alias Almaan (son of Mulla Asghar): From Kochaad, Tump, he joined the struggle in 2018 and the BLA in 2019. As a member of the elite “Fatah Squad,” his combat skills were exemplary.

Sangat Abdust was a living example of continuous struggle. Despite the occupying forces martyring his uncle Musadiq and subjecting his family to collective punishment, he never wavered. He was raised by his mother, Bibi Umaira, a woman of revolutionary thought who not only nurtured his ideological growth but always stood as a supporter and helper of the Baloch resistance.

Strong Earthquake Tremors Felt Across Kashmir

earthquke
(File/Representational image)

Srinagar, Apr 3 (NVI): Strong earthquake tremors were felt across several parts of Kashmir on Friday evening, triggering panic among residents who rushed out of their homes and offices.

Officials said the tremors were experienced in Srinagar and other districts, though there were no immediate reports of any loss of life or damage to property.

The intensity and epicentre of the quake are yet to be ascertained, they said.

Authorities are monitoring the situation, while people have been advised to remain calm and follow safety protocols. Further details are awaited.

Next 24 Hours Critical for J&K as Heavy Rain, Snow Likely; Flood, Landslide Alerts Issued

Rainfall
Representational image

Srinagar, Apr 03 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir is bracing for an intense spell of weather over the next 24 hours, with forecasts warning of very heavy rainfall across most parts of the Union Territory, raising concerns of flash floods, landslides and disruption to normal life.

Weather agencies have predicted widespread rain accompanied by gusty winds, thunderstorms and hailstorms in several areas, while higher reaches and mountain passes are likely to receive heavy snowfall.

Authorities have sounded an alert over possible flash floods and waterlogging in low-lying areas, particularly in vulnerable zones. The prevailing conditions may also trigger landslides, especially along the sensitive Banihal–Ramban stretch.

Officials warned that the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway (NH-44) could face temporary closure on Saturday morning if landslides or heavy snowfall intensify.

Residents have been advised to remain cautious, avoid unnecessary travel and follow official advisories, as the situation remains dynamic and potentially hazardous.(NVI)

Schools to Remain Closed in Rajouri Tomorrow amid Adverse Weather

Rajouri, Apr 3 (NVI): Amid Intermittent rains continued across Jammu and Kashmir on Friday District Admin Rajouri ordered closure of schools across district on Saturday.

All Government and Private Schools across District Rajouri will remain closed tomorrow as per the directions issued by the Chief Education Officer (CEO) Rajouri, ensuring the safety and well-being of students and staff.”

Both plains and higher reaches witnessed rainfall, with some areas in the upper regions also receiving light snowfall. The persistent wet weather has led to slippery roads, waterlogging in low-lying areas, and slow movement of traffic in parts of Kashmir.(NVI)

Ayodhya a ‘Civilisational Beacon’, Guide for Global Future: LG Sinha at 8th Ayodhya Parv

New Delhi/Jammu, Apr 3 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Friday described Ayodhya as a “civilisational cradle and eternal fountainhead of consciousness”, asserting that its ideals offer a guiding framework for both national identity and the global future.

Addressing the 8th Ayodhya Parv at Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, Sinha said Ayodhya must be understood not merely as a geographical entity but as a living idea that reflects humanity’s inner consciousness and moral compass rooted in the teachings of Lord Ram.

“Ayodhya is not just a city; it is our root and a dynamic inspiration for the nation. It represents a continuity of consciousness that has shaped civilisation for millennia and continues to illuminate future generations,” he said.

Emphasising the relevance of cultural roots in a rapidly changing world, Sinha said Ayodhya symbolises the balance between tradition and progress. “Progress does not mean abandoning our roots. Ayodhya teaches that life is not about speed alone, but about the right direction,” he added.

Highlighting the global significance of Ayodhya, the Lieutenant Governor said the ideals of truth, dharma, duty and sacrifice embodied in Lord Ram’s life remain universally relevant. “Those who walk the path of righteousness ultimately prevail. The world must learn from these timeless values,” he said.

Sinha further underlined that Ayodhya represents a synthesis of strength and sensitivity, where leadership is defined by service as much as governance. He said the city stands as a living example of values such as dignity, compassion and balance being practiced, not merely preached.

Calling Ayodhya a pillar of India’s cultural continuity and emerging economic strength, he credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for revitalising its global civilisational stature.

“The true strength of nations lies in their identity and cultural depth. Ayodhya’s significance transcends India and resonates globally as a centre where humanity first viewed nature as a living force,” he said.

The event was attended by several prominent figures, including Diya Kumari and senior representatives from cultural and social organisations.(NVI)

Rana Launches Major Flood Protection Works on River Tawi, Calls It ‘Jammu’s Lifeline’

Jammu, Apr 3 (NVI): Jammu and Kashmir Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs, Javed Ahmad Rana, on Friday laid the foundation stone for key embankment and flood protection projects along the River Tawi, aimed at strengthening riverbanks and mitigating flood risks in vulnerable areas.

The projects include restoration of an earthen embankment on the left bank at Bikram Chowk upstream, sanctioned at a cost of Rs 3.05 crore and targeted for completion within six to nine months. Additionally, damaged flood protection works on the right bank near Hari Singh Park will be rebuilt at a cost of Rs 82 lakh, with completion expected within two years.

MLA Jammu East Yudhvir Sethi, senior engineers, officials from the Irrigation and Flood Control and Jal Shakti departments, and local residents were present on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, Rana said the projects would significantly enhance flood resilience and safeguard critical infrastructure and residential areas. Describing the Tawi as the “pride of Jammu,” he reiterated the government’s commitment under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to protect and rejuvenate the river.

“The initiative reflects our unwavering commitment to flood mitigation and the protection of lives and livelihoods. No effort will be spared to ensure the safety and well-being of the people,” he said.

Officials said the works will include crate revetments, strengthening of existing embankments with concrete panels, and backfilling to stabilise eroded stretches, addressing long-standing vulnerabilities in flood management infrastructure.

Rana added that the projects are part of a broader strategy to modernise flood control systems across the Union Territory, and assured that all damages caused by recent floods would be taken up on priority to ensure timely restoration and long-term resilience.

Water Supply to Be Hit in Parts of Srinagar Due to Canal Repairs on April 6

JJM
Representative image

Srinagar, Apr 3 (NVI): Water supply will remain disrupted in several parts of Srinagar for 24 hours beginning April 6 due to urgent repair works on the Sindh Power Canal in Ganderbal, officials said on Friday.

The Executive Engineer, Water Supply Master Plan Division Srinagar, said the repair work, to be carried out by the Civil Investigation and Design Wing of JKPDC, Kashmir, will affect the raw water supply to treatment plants at Alusteng and Rangil.

As a result, potable water supply to large parts of the city and adjoining areas will remain affected from 6:00 AM on Monday (April 6) to 6:00 AM on Tuesday (April 7).

Areas likely to face disruption include Zakoora, Habak, Naseem Bagh, Soura, Anchar, Zadibal, Hawal, Nowhatta, Lal Bazar, Hazratbal, Bemina, Batmaloo (parts), Qamarwari, Parimpora, Shalteng, HMT and adjoining localities, among others.

Authorities have advised residents to store adequate water in advance to meet their requirements during the shutdown period.

For grievances, the PHE Provincial Control Room will remain operational round-the-clock, and people can contact helpline numbers including 0194-2477207 and 0194-2452047, officials added.(NVI)

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