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BJP launches grassroots outreach in J&K

 

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 06(NVI) : In a move aimed at bolstering its public engagement and addressing grievances at the grassroots level, the BJP has deployed its MLAs across assembly constituencies in Jammu and Kashmir in a bid to increase its public outreach.

The initiative, which includes regular public darbars at the party’s Trikuta Nagar headquarters of Jammu and similar sessions in Kashmir, is seen as an effort to strengthen the party’s outreach in the region.

However, observers suggest it could be perceived as an attempt to run a parallel government as 28 legislators of BJP are not happy with the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah led government.

Sources said that during a high-level meeting chaired by BJP President Sat Sharma, attended by General Secretary (Organization) Ashok Koul, Leader of Opposition Sunil Sharma, and senior leaders Dr. Devinder Manyal and Adv. Vibodh Gupta in Jammu, key decisions were finalized:

BJP MLAs have been assigned specific constituencies to ensure regular interaction with the public and party workers.

Each MLA is tasked to visit their designated constituency at least once a month to address local grievances and offer support.

Assignments include:

Shakti Raj Parihar: Banihal

Er. Pawan Gupta: Ramban

Dr. Devinder Manyal & Ch. Vikram Randhawa: Chhamb

Adv. Ranbir Singh Pathania: Nagrota

Dr. Narinder Singh & Dr. Rajiv Bhagat: Poonch

Sham Lal Sharma & Dr. Sunil Bhardwaj: North Kashmir

Balwant Singh Mankotia and Adv. Vijay Sharma: South Kashmir

Starting December 16, senior BJP leaders will hold grievance redressal sessions at the party’s Jammu headquarters. The schedule includes:

Monday: Sham Lal Sharma and Mohan Lal Bhagat

Tuesday: Surjit Singh Salathia, Dr. Devinder Manyal, and Prof. Garu Ram Bhagat

Wednesday: Dr. Narinder Singh, Ch. Vikram Randhawa, and Balwant Singh Mankotia

Thursday: Chander Prakash Ganga, Dr. Devinder Manyal, and Arvind Gupta

Friday: Sunil Sharma, Yudhvir Sethi, and Surinder Bhagat.

Special attention has been given to politically and socially sensitive regions like North, Central, and South Kashmir, as well as remote areas such as Banihal and Poonch. This targeted outreach aims to bridge the gap between the leadership and the people in conflict-prone areas.

While BJP sources describe the initiative as a step toward strengthening grassroots engagement and organizational structure, critics argue it resembles a parallel governance model. Observers view the public darbars and MLA deployments as a strategic move to expand the party’s political footprint in Jammu and Kashmir, especially in light of the region’s unique administrative challenges.

A senior BJP leader stated, “By prioritizing grassroots issues and grievances, the party aims to reinforce its commitment to the people while boosting its presence in J&K.”

This development has sparked debate over its implications, with supporters hailing it as an innovative outreach effort and detractors questioning its alignment with established governance structures. (News Vibes of India)

Army soldier dies of heart attack during Cordon and Search Operation at Srinagar

Representational Pic.

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 06(NVI): An Army soldier died today while on duty during a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) at Faqir Gujree, Dara Harwan, in Srinagar district.

Identified as Jasvinder Singh of 34 Assam Rifles, suffered a fatal heart attack during the operation, which is part of ongoing security measures in the Kashmir. Despite immediate efforts to provide medical assistance, Singh could not be saved.

Singh was stationed at Wusan, Ganderbal and was actively engaged in counter-insurgency operations in the area. His untimely demise highlights the physical and mental toll faced by armed forces personnel operating in high-stress and demanding conditions, particularly in volatile areas like Kashmir.

The Army and Assam Rifles have expressed their condolences to the family of the deceased soldier, recognizing his dedication and service to the nation. Further arrangements are being made to honor his contributions and provide support to his family during this difficult time. (News Vibes of India)

Srinagar Police launches helpline for public grievances related to Police verifications

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 06(NVI): To improve public service delivery and address concerns efficiently, Srinagar Police today unveiled a dedicated helpline for resolving issues related to various police verification services.

The initiative aims to simplify the process for citizens and ensure timely responses.

The helpline will cater to grievances and queries regarding: Passport Verification,Police Clearance Certificates (PCC), verification for Government and private employees, besides tenant verification.

Police said citizens can reach out to the helpline for assistance through calls or WhatsApp messages. The contact numbers are: 9541922441 and 9541922442.

“Working Days: Monday to Friday,                  Timings: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM,” Police said.

This initiative reflects the commitment of Srinagar Police to ensure transparency and enhance public convenience. Citizens are encouraged to use this facility for hassle-free resolution of their verification-related issues. (News Vibes of India)

CRPF jawan dies of suspected cardiac arrest during patrolling duty in Anantnag

REPRESENTATIONAL PIC.

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 06(NVI): A CRPF man died of a cardiac arrest during a patrol duty late last night at Mattan area of South Kashmir’s Anantnag district, official sources said today.

They said constable Azad Ahmad Najar of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) B/96 Battalion passed away while on camp patrolling duty in the Mattan area of Anantnag district.

The incident occurred during his night shift, between 11:00 PM and 1:00 AM, when he suddenly collapsed due to what is suspected to be a cardiac arrest.

As per reports, at approximately 12:35 AM, Najar developed sudden syncope (loss of consciousness). His fellow personnel on duty responded promptly and rushed him to the Primary Health Centre (PHC) in Mattan for immediate medical attention. However, upon arrival, the attending doctors declared him dead.

The initial medical examination conducted by the attending doctor suggests cardiac arrest as the likely cause of death. However, the exact cause will only be confirmed following the post-mortem examination, which is expected to shed more light on the incident.

Najar’s sudden demise has left his battalion and colleagues in shock, as he was reportedly healthy and showed no prior signs of medical distress. The CRPF authorities have extended their condolences to his family, who are being informed and supported in this difficult time.
(News Vibes of India)

Temp drop further in Kashmir, Weather to remain dry till Dec 16 : MeT

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 06 (NVI): Temperatures plummeted across Kashmir once again painting a vivid picture of nature’s frosty majesty with Srinagar recording the coldest night of the season at minus 4.1 degrees Celsius.

Shopian emerged as the coldest place, shivering at a bone-chilling -6.6°C. Even Srinagar, the heart of Kashmir, woke up to a frosty -4.1°C.

Jammu’s hilly terrains weren’t spared either. Padder stood out with an unforgiving -8.4°C, making it colder than most of Kashmir’s renowned destinations. Yet, warmer spots like Jammu city basked at 8.6°C, offering a stark contrast to the surrounding chill. The pilgrimage town of Katra, a gateway to Vaishno Devi, remained relatively moderate at 4.3°C, while Banihal and Bhaderwah saw frost-laden mornings at -2.6°C and 0.3°C, respectively.

Further north, Ladakh proved its reputation as the coldest region. Leh, a dream destination for adventurers, endured a biting -10.4°C, making it one of the iciest places in the area. Kargil, shrouded in mystery under its snow-blanketed mountains, awaited its turn to reveal the season’s freezing extremes.

The weather man in Kashmir has predicted dry weather till December 16 signalling further drop in night temperatures. (News Vibes of India)

Chief Engg (Disb) KPDCL inspects electric infra works under RDSS

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Nov 05(NVI) : The Chief Engineer, Distribution, Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL), Er. Aaquib Waheed Deva today, inspected electric infrastructure works under the Centre’s Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS), here today.

She was accompanied by SE, O&M Circle II, Srinagar, Er. Shurjeel Ghani Lala, Executive Engineer, ED III (Shireenbagh), Srinagar, Er. Firdous Ahmad and PMU Head of the concerned TKC.

During the visit, the Chief Engineer inspected ongoing works related to the installation of steel tubular poles, aerial bunched cable and creation of new substations in Electric Subdivisions Watalkadal, Pather Masjid and MR Gunj of ED III, Srinagar.

She stressed upon the installation of AB cable as a critical component of bringing down AT&C losses, along with smart metering project under RDSS.

Er. Aaquib Waheed Deva called upon the executing agency to increase manpower and deploy at least 10-15 persons on a particular DT for LT-AB cabling involving 2-3 km length so that the works on that particular section are accelerated.

She also emphasised upon the KPDCL staff to liaise with executing agencies for joint monitoring so that the electric infrastructure works are completed within the stipulated timeline.—(News Vibes of India)

Winter Vacations in Kashmir soon after students join new classes: Sakina Itoo

File Photo : Health and Education Minister Sakina Itoo

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 05(NVI):: Jammu and Kashmir’s Education Minister Sakina Itoos today said that the winter vacations will be announced soon after students will join new classes despite the recent changes in the academic calendar.

With annual examinations now being conducted in October and November instead of March, the decision to start winter vacations earlier aims to provide much-needed relief to students struggling with the extreme winter conditions in the Valley

The Education Minister acknowledged the challenges faced by students due to the severe cold and stressed on the need for an early winter break to ease their difficulties. “We want to ensure students’ welfare and this step will help them cope better with the harsh winter,” she said.

Itoo also responded to ongoing concerns regarding private schools, particularly complaints about excessive fees and other unfair practices. The Minister firmly stated that any private institution found violating the laws, including charging unauthorized fees, would be dealt with strictly. She encouraged parents who believe they are being exploited by private schools to come forward and file formal complaints with her office or the education department. (News Vibes of India)

Mass protests in Pakistan-occupied J&K against new Pakistani law

Protests in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (POJK).

Rawalakot (PoJK), Dec 5 (NVI) Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) today saw a total shutdown and mass protests amidst resonating demands of ‘azadi’ in protest against a newly-imposed law by Pakistan.

Thousands of people took to the streets in acute cold weather to register their opposition and resistance to the new law which prohibits gathering of people and holding of protests.

As a mark of protest, black flags were hoisted atop rooftops of houses and shops in Rawalakot and other major towns of PoJK.

Shopkeepers of Rawalakot have also painted shutters of their shops in black as a mark of protest.

The protest was organised by the J&K Joint Awami Action Committee, a conglomeration of social, political, religious, trade, student and labour organizations of PoJK.

At the end of the day-long ‘hartal’, the Committee issued an ultimatum to the Pakistani regime to withdraw the ‘black law’ by tomorrow noon, failing which a long-term agitation would be launched.

It said the new agitation may include a long march to Islamabad.

The Committee also demanded immediate release of the leaders and others who have been arrested for protesting against the new law over the past few weeks.

The Committee has vowed to resist the illegal occupation of Pakistan tooth and nail in the wake of the new law which has been promulgated by the President of Pakistan, ironically despite the country describing the illegally-held territories of J&K as ‘Azad Kashmir’.

The Ordinance effectively curtails civilian liberties of the people of PoJK as it prohibits gathering for protests and freedom of speech. (NVI)

Police Attach Property of Terrorist Associate in Sopore Under UAPA

NVI Correspondent

Srinagar, Dec 05(NVI): In a significant action against unlawful activities, Sopore police have attached a single-storied residential house along with 16 Marlas of land (Survey No. 354) in the Nowpora Kalan estate.

The property, Statement issued here, belongs to Mohd Subhan Khan, son of Ab Satar Khan, a resident of Nowpora Kalan, identified as a terrorist associate.

The attachment, carried out under Section 25 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA), is linked to case FIR No. 105/2024 of Police Station Sopore. The operation was executed in the presence of a police team and the Executive Magistrate, ensuring legal protocols were strictly followed.

This step is part of ongoing investigations into subversive activities in the region and reflects the police’s commitment to countering threats to national security and maintaining peace in the area.—(News Vibes of India)

India at advantage when it comes to Trump’s 2nd term: Jaishankar

EAM S Jaishankar
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar (File Pic)

New Delhi, Dec 5 (NVI) : India is in “a much more advantageous position” than many other countries to translate Donald Trump’s second tenure as the US President into a deeper relationship, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said today.

Jaishankar said the way important economies look at India has undergone a tremendous change in the last 10 years.

The third back-to-back term of the Narendra Modi Government has impressed most nations and political leaders of the world, he said at an event of business chamber ASSOCHAM.

Jaishankar, a career-diplomat who has earlier served as Indian Ambassador to the US, was asked about the prospects of India-US relations under Trump 2.0.

“There are countries which are looking at Trump 2.0 as a political challenge; we are not. That separates us from a very large number of countries; So we are in a much more advantageous position to translate 2.0 into a deeper relationship,” he said.

The External Affairs Minister said India would also have to work out a political equation with America under Trump.

”That is one area where we score because we have always had positive political relations with Trump and Trump always had a positive view of India. However, it would not automatically translate into every transaction,” he said, adding, “Like everybody else we may also have some issues; we will deal with those issues.”

Jaishankar said the US would need India in many areas where they would like to take technology leads.

The two countries would have to build an understanding of mutual benefits and relationships in several areas like emerging and critical technologies as trusted partners.

When the ASSOCHAM President Sanjay Nayar asked him about the evolving relations with China, Jaishankar said, with that country accounting for 32-33 per cent of global manufacturing, it is logical that several supply chains will have to go through China.

“We have to factor (that) into our calculations but it is also a fact that if you become excessively dependent on a single supply chain or in the name of supply chain you open up your market that is no longer a supply chain, but your sectors are getting hollowed out , you have to be careful,” he said.

The External Affairs Minister said, India would not want to end up as a market for another economy and not being   able to compete with their products which are dumped in our country.

”We have to find the right balance here. For the last four and half years, our political relations have not been good . but things have improved a little bit ; we have managed to make some progress there. we have to sit down with the Chinese what we do further,” he said.

Jaishankar also touched upon relations with Russia and the geo-political situation in the Middle East.

He said in  the last two years ”people generally know that we have been importing more oil from Russia; what people do not know we have been importing from Russia other natural resources coking coal is a very good example , fertiliser, it is shift, which I hope is long term because it is in interest of India”.

He shared concerns with ASSOCHAM Secretary General Deepak Sood about the challenging geo-political situation , especially in the Middle East.

He particularly talked about the shipping challenges in the Red Sea and how the situation there is of direct consequences to India’s economic interest.

Talking about the MSMEs and their role in manufacturing , the External Affairs Minister said  It is one of the top priorities of the Modi Government that we have to push manufacturing in this country. ”We have to create more manufacturing zones, improve logistics and  make ourselves more competitive. I think we have made progress but there is a lot we will have to do”

MSMEs have to deal with unfair competition and the government has to be protecting their interest, especially when negotiating free trade agreements.

He said the Modi Government has been careful in this regard and has even sought review of FTA with ASEAN as the existing agreement has been leaving a negative impact on India’s agriculture and MSMEs.

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