Category: Jammu & Kashmir

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India News Jammu & Kashmir Politics

EC Mulls Simultaneous LS, Assembly Polls in J&K

The long wait for Jammu and Kashmir seems to have come to an end as the Election Commission of India (ECI) is considering holding simultaneous assembly and Lok Sabha polls…reports Asian Lite News

Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar on Wednesday said that the poll body will decide on holding Lok Sabha Elections and Assembly Elections together or separately in Jammu and Kashmir after reviewing the security situation.

The long wait for Jammu and Kashmir seems to have come to an end as the Election Commission of India (ECI) is considering holding simultaneous assembly and Lok Sabha polls.

A team from the poll body, led by Chief Election Commissioner Rajiv Kumar, is on a three-day visit to the Union Territory.

“We are concerned about Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in J&K. The majority of political parties we met in Srinagar and Jammu demanded that Assembly and Lok Sabha polls be held simultaneously,” CEC Rajiv Kumar told media persons at Jammu.

“As far as holding Lok Sabha and Assembly polls simultaneously, we will take a final call after a thorough security review and consultations with the political parties. One thing is sure: we want early Lok Sabha and Assembly polls in J&K.”

Kumar said strict vigil will be maintained on online cash transfers through wallets in Jammu and Kashmir. People above 85 years and those with disability will be provided voting at home facility in J-K.

Chief Election Commissioner further said that the Election Commission has received details from the State Bank of India (SBI) related to the electoral bonds and will share all relevant information in time.

The reply came amid the fact that the Chairman of the State Bank of India (SBI) has filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court apprising that, in compliance with the top court’s order, the date of purchase of each electoral bond, the name of the purchaser, and the denomination of the bond purchased have been furnished to the Election Commission of India.

Kumar informed us that there will be a total of 76,876 service voters in 2024, for whom ballot service will be provided. Apart from that, all security agencies are aware, and the district police chiefs, top police officers of the Kashmir region were asked about the on-ground security situation in the state and the requirement of additional security forces.

When asked about Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party not getting allowed to the meeting held by the election commission, he said, “There is a dispute in the party, we meet national parties and regional parties. This party is under dispute; when their dispute is settled, we will meet them.”

Rajiv Kumar also appealed voters of J&K to take part in coming elections in large number. (ANI)

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Modi in Srinagar First Time Since Scrapping Article 370

Kashmiris expect Prime Minister Narendra Modi to bring gifts of peace and progress…reports Asian Lite News

The people of Kashmir Valley are expecting gifts of peace, prosperity and much more from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who is arriving here on Thursday.

People from far and near are reaching Srinagar and the otherwise sleepy winter city has come to life on Thursday with the first light of the day despite the morning cold.

People from Uri border town, Baramulla town, Kupwara, Handwara, Lolab, Tangmarg, Bandipora, Kangan, Ganderbal, Kokernag, Achabal, Pahalgam, Khansahib, Beerwah, Chadoora, Anantnag, Shopian, Pulwama and over two dozen other places are reaching here on buses and private vehicles to get a glimpse of the Prime Minister.

Traffic department and the security wing of J&K Police have issued detailed advisories to ensure smooth passage of the people to and from the Bakshi Stadium, the main venue of Prime Minister Modi’s public address.

Ravinder Raina, President of BJP’s J&K unit, told reporters that he is expecting 2 lakh people to attend the rally.

While the exact number would be known only after the beginning of the programme, the most significant thing is the mood and enthusiasm with which the participants are reaching the city.

Nazir Ahmad, 41, came from the Rafiabad area of Baramulla district. He is eager to see the man who brought an end to uncertainty and chaos in Kashmir.

“My children go to school without any fear of facing stone pelters to send them back home. I am able to work normally in my apple orchard as my wife attends to household chores without fear for me and the children returning home safely… This was made possible by the man (Prime Minister Modi) I am going to see and listen to today,” he said.

Businessmen, academicians, transporters, houseboat owners, Shikarawallahs, farmers, orchardists, government employees, small industrial unit entrepreneurs, and hoteliers, everybody is expecting gifts from the Prime Minister.

“We are expecting Prime Minister Modi to help us live a better life… Kashmir now expects big from the big man,” said Sajad Ahmad, 47, who runs a retail shop in Srinagar city.

The majority of people attending the Prime Minister’s public rally are hopeful to return home with some good news that touches their lives directly.

Shakeel Lone, 38, from Uri border town is mainly concerned about peace in the areas close to the line of control (LoC) as he lives in one such area. “Peace on the border is my first priority. My family, my home and everything else I own is dependent on peace and normalcy on the LoC. And, Prime Minister Modi is the man who can ensure the safety of my family.”

“I want to see the Prime Minister in person while he speaks of his vision for the people of Kashmir,” he said.

People working in the hospitality sector like hotels, taxi operators, houseboat owners and guest house owners are upbeat after hearing that the Prime Minister is going to announce a package for the tourism industry.

“We had a tourist boom last year. We expect even larger numbers to visit the Valley this year. Tourism needs better and larger infrastructure than we have at present. We need incentives to do that. I am sure he loves to see Kashmir tourism grow and for that to happen, we need his continued patronage,” said Gowhar, 56, a hotel owner.

Imran Fida Bhat, 39, is a daily rated worker in the Jal Shakti Department. He has spent more than 20 years serving for the department. He has been waiting like thousands of others to get their services regularised.

“We are 63,000 families across J&K. We have given the best years of our lives to the department. All previous governments promised to regularise our services, but none have done that so far… I have come to see the Prime Minister do something positive for us. ‘Modi Hai To Mumkin Hai’,” he said.

“We have all our hopes pinned on him,” Imran said as he narrated his story of how difficult it is to send two children to school and keep the wolf away from his door at just Rs 9,000 a month.

Security in and around the Bakshi Stadium has been tightened while ensuring smooth passage of the people.

Police have declared the city a ‘Temporary Red Zone’ today to ensure that no private drone or Quadcopter is seen in the sky during the VVIP visit.

A multi-tier security ring is in place to provide foolproof security to the Prime Minister and the people attending the public rally.

ALSO READ-Modi’s Visit Promises Healing Touch for Naya Kashmir

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Modi’s Visit Promises Healing Touch for Naya Kashmir

Prime Minister Modi’s Kashmir visit appears to be a testing ground going forward. It seems that the government is not yet convinced that it can afford to extend political incentives like the restoration of J&K’s statehood, which is the biggest confidence-building measure in the present circumstances…. Write Nasir Khuehami & Ummar Jamal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Srinagar on March 7th has stirred anticipation, casting a spotlight on the complex dynamics of the region against the backdrop of significant political changes, notably the abrogation of Article 370. While some analysts interpret this visit as a strategic move ahead of impending parliamentary elections, the underlying need for reconciliation and healing in a region cannot be overlooked.

The erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir has been without an elected administration for around the past six years. June 2024 will mark the completion of 6 years since the elected government fell. The erstwhile state has been directly governed by the Union ever since. Even though the Centre government has made repeated promises to hold free and fair assembly elections, as of right now, nothing of the kind has taken place.

The Centre’s Invitation to representatives of political parties from Jammu and Kashmir for a meeting in New Delhi in, 2021, was seen as a significant step towards resolving the political impasse following the abrogation of Article 370 and the bifurcation of the former state into two Union Territories. Leaders across the party lines were invited after facing nearly two years of stonewalling. It was seen that New Delhi leadership recognized the unsustainable nature of the current approach towards Kashmir. Some averred that the way Kashmir is being handled cannot last for long, while others averred the move was a result of growing international pressure and others opined Delhi needed the support of local leaders for the smooth implementation of the ongoing delimitation process. Whatever be the reasons for the meeting one thing is clear the meeting changed nothing for the people of Kashmir till now.

Normal life in Srinagar on the 4th anniversary of the Abrogation of Article 370 & 35A – Umar Ganie

Agree or not; the people of J&K are silent but deeply disappointed. The decision to revoke Article 370, ostensibly aimed at integrating Jammu and Kashmir with the rest of the country, has left many Kashmiris feeling marginalized and disillusioned. Modi’s upcoming visit presents a unique opportunity to address these sentiments, offering a glimmer of hope for a region yearning for stability and inclusion.

Since the abrogation of Article 370, mainstream politics in the region has been rendered ineffective as people have lost faith in the system. The vacuum created by the abrogation of Article 370 remained unfilled because mainstream politicians in Kashmir felt sidelined and were never given a chance to represent their voters. Even after the government attempted to groom a new breed of activists, they were not accepted by the people due to their little influence on the ground. The central government tried to create divisions in the regional political parties, which further created disenchantment among politicians advocating the idea of India, even during the turbulent 1990s in Kashmir.

PM Modi’s Kashmir visit appears to be a testing ground going forward. It seems that the government is not yet convinced that it can afford to extend political incentives like the restoration of J&K’s statehood, which is the biggest confidence-building measure in the present circumstances. There is a reason for it. Post the abrogation of Article 370, there was a conviction in New Delhi that a new political class could be nurtured at the expense of the traditional one and hence the constitution of Development Councils, which, however, as evident, has not resulted in desired dividends. Had that been so, the government would not have waited for the Supreme Court’s direction and instead raced to conduct the local legislative assembly polls at least a year back on its own.

Be that as it may, central to the journey towards reconciliation is the restoration of statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. Beyond its political ramifications, this gesture symbolizes a commitment to healing the emotional wounds inflicted by the abrogation of Article 370. By reinstating statehood, the government can convey a message of reconciliation. However, mere symbolic gestures will not suffice. The urgency lies in conducting Assembly polls before September 30th, as mandated by the Apex court. Transparent and inclusive elections are essential to empowering Kashmiris to shape their political destiny, fostering a sense of ownership and participation in the democratic process.

Yet, addressing the grievances of Kashmiris requires more than just political measures. Modi’s visit must be underpinned by a comprehensive strategy that addresses the deep-seated trust deficit in the region. This entails genuine efforts to understand and redress the aspirations of the local population, transcending the confines of political rhetoric. It is imperative to recognize that political manoeuvres alone cannot resolve the multifaceted challenges facing Kashmir. A holistic approach is needed, one that prioritizes rebuilding trust, restoring normalcy, and empowering the local population. Modi’s visit should catalyze such an approach, fostering a narrative of unity and understanding.

In this endeavour, Modi can draw inspiration from the legacy of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, whose approach towards Kashmir epitomized the power of dialogue and empathy. Vajpayee’s mantra of “insaniyat, jamhooriyat, and Kashmiriyat” underscored a philosophy rooted in inclusivity, democracy, and respect for Kashmir’s cultural identity.

Emulating Vajpayee’s approach, Modi has the opportunity to pave the way for lasting peace and stability in the region. By prioritizing engagement over confrontation, Modi can bridge the trust deficit and address the grievances that have plagued Kashmir for decades. As Modi is set to set foot on the soil of Kashmir, the onus is not solely on political posturing but on fostering a narrative of unity, understanding, and comprehensive engagement. Only through such an approach can we envision a future where the people of Jammu and Kashmir find solace, hope, and a genuine path towards enduring peace.

(Nasir Khuehami is the National Convenor of J&K Students Association. He is Pursuing Masters in Conflict Analysis and Peacebuilding from Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi. Ummar Jamal is the National General Secretary of J&K Students Association. He is Pursuing BA. LLB from the University of Kashmir. )

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J’&K Aimed to be Leading Startup Ecosystem by 2027′

He said the Policy has been meticulously drafted to establish 2,000 startups in J&K by 2027, underscoring the commitment of the UT Administration to foster a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem…reports Asian Lite News

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha today launched the much-awaited ‘New Jammu & Kashmir Start-up Policy- 2024-27’, at the Avinya Startup Summit.

The Lieutenant Governor congratulated the young entrepreneurs and innovators on the historic occasion.

“New Start-up Policy aims to establish J&K as one of the leading start-up ecosystems by 2027. It is a giant leap for startups and innovators of Jammu Kashmir,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

He said the Policy has been meticulously drafted to establish 2,000 startups in J&K by 2027, underscoring the commitment of the UT Administration to foster a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Highlighting the key features of the new J&K Start-Up Policy, the Lt Governor said the policy aims to set up a Rs. 250 Crore Venture Capital Fund, with an initial infusion of Rs. 25 Crores from J&K Administration.

This fund will provide crucial support for growth, early-stage financial handholding and it will encourage growth of viable business models, he added.

The Lieutenant Governor reiterated the commitment of the UT Administration to establish and empower new incubation centres, seed funding through JKEDI for developing prototype of innovative products and provide additional support to female entrepreneurs, through the new startup policy.

New policy will provide patent-related assistance, financial assistance for mentorship to recognised startups, facilitation for DPIIT registration and additional need-based support to start-ups working in diverse fields, he observed.

Addressing the entrepreneurs and innovators on the occasion, the Lt Governor called for collective action to build dynamic economic environment in the UT where business can thrive, investment can prosper and entrepreneurs can actualise their aspirations.

He also talked about the challenges and growth opportunities in different sectors in Jammu Kashmir.

J&K UT has 722 registered startups, with a notable focus on gender inclusivity, boasting 254 women-led startups. The Jammu & Kashmir startup ecosystem exhibits a diverse landscape, with Construction & Engineering emerges as a key player, constituting 49% of the total startups, followed by Skill Development (12%), Oil & Gas Transportation (12%), IT Consulting (8%), Business Support Services (7%), Food Processing (6%), and Agri-Tech (5%). This showcases the entrepreneurial diversity and the presence of startups across various industries.

The Lieutenant Governor said the policy reflects a comprehensive survey on government support, incubator collaboration, and policy requirements. Notably, 69% of startups seek support for Marketing & Branding, while the collaboration with incubators is at 7.89%, presenting an opportunity for increased engagement.

Jammu & Kashmir is home to 12 incubators, playing a vital role in nurturing and guiding startups during their early stages, the Lieutenant Governor said.

He said the ecosystem benefits from collaborations, with 16 partnerships and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) established with various institutions and organizations to provide additional support and resources.

I invite the potential investors from across the country to explore the unlimited possibilities present in the Union Territory and contribute to the growth journey of Jammu Kashmir, he said.

He further impressed upon the Financial and Academic Institutions to play their vital role in effective on-ground implementation of the new startup policy.

Atal Dulloo, Chief Secretary; Vikramjit Singh, Commissioner Secretary, Industries & Commerce Department; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Baldev Prakash, MD and CEO J&K Bank; Prof BS Sahay, Director IIM Jammu; Arun Manhas, Director, Industries Jammu; Ishan Verma, President JK Startups Association, officials of UT Administration, SIDBI, Startup India and young entrepreneurs were present.

CEOs and representatives of various companies and Startup ventures like Via ENS, Branding Elves, Fast Beetle, Fix and Ease, Pure Mart, MGM, Tramboo Sports were also present.

ALSO READ-J&K L-G Manoj Sinha warns of tough actions against supporters of terrorism

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Protesters brave cold, seek Ladakh statehood

Thousands of men and women marched in the main city of Leh in the bitter cold, raising chants demanding statehood…reports Asian Lite News

Thousands of people braved the cold and took out a march demanding statehood for Ladakh and protection under the 6th Schedule of the Constitution for the Union Territory.

Thousands of men and women marched in the main city of Leh in the bitter cold, raising chants demanding statehood for Ladakh and the implementation of the sixth schedule of the Constitution.

The shutdown in the region was called by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA).

Significantly, the central government has already constituted a high-level committee led by Union Minister of State for Home, Nityanand Rai, to protect the unique culture and language of Ladakh.

The legal Adviser of Leh Apex Body and Kargil Democratic Alliance, Haji Ghulam Mustafa, told ANI that all powers that were people-centric have weakened and the region has no representation in the Assembly.

“Ever since Ladakh became a UT, the apex body and Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA) put forward a four-point agenda. All our powers which were people-centric have weakened. When we were a part of Jammu and Kashmir, we had four members in the Assembly and two in the legislative council. Now we have no representation in the Assembly. It has always been our demand that the people of Ladakh should have representation in the Assembly and that we should get statehood. The reason is that Ladakh is, strategically, a very important place,” he said.

“This is a tribal majority area and has all the features that states in the Northeast have. Further, along the lines of Northeast states, we demand that the provisions of the 6th schedule be implemented in Ladakh to protect its culture. Ever since Ladakh became a UT, there have been no gazetted job openings in the region while in J-K, two batches have already been commissioned and the third batch will be commissioned soon. Ladakh urgently needs a Public Service Commission of its own. People here are observing a total shutdown today. This is to send a message to the power corridors in Delhi that the people of Ladakh demand empowerment of the region,” he added.

After the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, Jammu and Kashmir was split into two Union Territories–Jammu-Kashmir and Ladakh. (ANI)

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Jammu & Kashmir PAKISTAN UK News

KASHMIR PANDIT GENOCIDE REMEMBRANCE EVENT: A Moment of Reflection and Solidarity

Bob Blackman MP

MP Bob Blackman, who tabled the Early Day Motion (EDM) in Parliament, spoke passionately about his long-standing support for the Kashmiri Pandit cause, dating back to his time in the 90’s in Brent Council

Kashmiri Pandit (KP) diaspora in the UK gathered for an impactful online Genocide Remembrance event, joined by Members of Parliament and special guest Aditya Raj Kaul from India. The event provided a platform for reflection, support, and a renewed commitment to justice.

The KP Genocide Remembrance Event is an annual gathering of the Kashmiri Pandit diaspora to reflect on the tragic events of the past, seek justice, and garner support from MPs and allies. This year’s event, held online, brought together community members and distinguished guests to discuss the way forward in their quest for justice and recognition.

Aditya Raj Kaul

MP Bob Blackman, who tabled the Early Day Motion (EDM) in Parliament, spoke passionately about his long-standing support for the KP cause, dating back to his time in the 90’s in Brent Council. Sharing insights from his visit to the valley, he highlighted the positive impact of the abrogation of Article 370. He reaffirmed his dedication, stating, “I will always be an ally to the KP & Dogra community.”

Virendra Sharma, MP for Ealing Southall, also extended unwavering support and added his signature to the EDM tabled by Bob Blackman, demonstrating a collective commitment to justice.

MP Jonathan Lord of Woking applauded Bob Blackman for his steadfast support, emphasizing the importance of not forgetting past injustices despite the challenges faced by the world today.

Vinod Tikoo

Renowned Kashmiri journalist and Executive editor of TV9, Aditya Raj Kaul, praised the KP diaspora for ensuring their voices are heard globally. He acknowledged a significant shift, stating, “Only after 34 years, courts and politicians are listening,” and spoke optimistically about a glimmer of hope in Kashmir.

Sonal Sher, Kashmiri Pandit activist, read the EDM and reaffirmed the KP community’s commitment to keeping their voices and stories alive.

The event concluded with heartfelt spoken words from members of the diaspora, Shafalica Bhan, Anu Handoo, Anupam Fotedar, Vinod Tikoo contemplating the way forward and thanking allies. The question remains: where do we go from here? The KP community stands united, strengthened by the support of MPs and allies, ready to navigate the path toward justice and a safe place they can call home.

KASHMIR PANDIT GENOCIDE REMEMBRANCE EVENT
Aditya Raj Kaul
Bob Blackman MP
KASHMIR PANDIT GENOCIDE REMEMBRANCE EVENT
Vinod Tikoo
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Historic Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link Nearing Completion

In 2001, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it finally assumed the status of a national project…reports Asian Lite News

The upcoming Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) is one of the most challenging and ambitious railway links in the world.

India has undertaken one of its most formidable railway projects to date in its bid to establish a rail link between Udhampur in Jammu division and the Valley, which passes through the Himalayan foothills.

The railway link to Kashmir will provide alternative and reliable connectivity between Jammu & Kashmir (J&K) and the rest of the country.

USBRL is the only railway link in India’s high mountain ranges that has been laid out in broad gauge. The 345-km extension of the Indian Railway network will allow a 900-km direct train journey from Delhi to Srinagar.

USBRL crosses earthquake-prone zones and areas beset with extreme cold and hot temperatures, combined with the most challenging topography.

Till now, the idea of connecting Kashmir Valley with the rest of India had only remained a dream.

The project is said to have been mooted in 1898 by the British to the Maharaja of J&K. It was floated again in 1902 and 1904, but never took off.

In 1994, then Railway Minister in the Narasimha Rao-led Government, Jaffer Sharief, spoke of laying a rail link connecting the Valley.

In 2001, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it finally assumed the status of a national project.

The configuration for the Kashmir Railway represents one of the most significant railway engineering challenges ever encountered with the only competition coming from the China-Tibet rail route, which crosses permanently frozen ground and climbs to more than 5,000 metres above sea level.

While the temperatures in the Kashmir Valley are not as severe as in Tibet, the Valley experiences extreme winters with heavy snowfalls.

USBRL is built as per the Indian standard gauge of 1,676 mm, laid on concrete sleepers with continuous welded rail and a minimum curve radius of 676m. The maximum line speed is 100 kmph.

It is little wonder that to realise this dream, the world’s highest railway bridge, taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris, had to be constructed at a whopping cost of Rs 28,000 crore.

The bridge, known as the Chenab Bridge is 359 metres tall and since it is constructed in seismic zone IV, it is designed to withstand an earthquake of the magnitude of 8 on the Richter scale.

The total estimated cost of the USBRL is over Rs 37,000 crore and the length of the railway link is 272 kms. The rail link has 38 tunnels whose combined length is 119 kms.

The longest of these tunnels called T-49 has a length of 12.75 kms and is India’s longest transportation tunnel.

There are a total of 927 bridges with a combined length of 13 kms. The project has generated more than 553 lakh man-days of indirect employment so far.

Another crucial facet of the USBRL project’s socio-economic development efforts has been the construction of over 215 kms of approach roads.

The first train will chug out from Udhampur to Srinagar and then on to Baramulla in March this year. The availability of rail transport to and from the Valley to the rest of India will change the face of Kashmir’s economy.

From horticulture, agriculture, handicrafts, tourism, industries, education and healthcare, every sector of J&K’s economy would get the boost it has been waiting for since the country’s Independence in 1947.

ALSO READ-Kashmir Gripped by Harsh Winter Chill

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Gulmarg Gondola: 1M Visitors, Rs. 108 Cr!


This marks a notable improvement from the previous year’s statistics, with revenue reaching Rs. 91 crore and 8.50 lakh tourist rides in 2022….reports Asian Lite News


The Gulmarg Gondola, a standout feature in Kashmir tourism, is thriving in terms of both revenue and the volume of transported tourists.

“In 2023, more than a million tourists enjoyed the rides of the gondolas enabling the J&K Cable Car Corporation to earn revenue of more than Rs. 108 crore during the last calendar year,” an official statement said.

“This is encouragingly higher than the figure of the previous year (2022) which stood at Rs. 91 crore as revenue and 8.50 lakh tourist rides. What is more, tourists describe the experience as surreal and alluring,” the statement by the J&K Cable Car Corporation which runs and manages the Gulmarg Gondola, said.

“Besides the enhanced revenue and visitor trips, the corporation, during the last year, improved and enhanced the service delivery by improving the ticket issuing mechanism, undertaking several safety tests and overhauled the second phase of the Gondola with latest technology,” the statement added.

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India Bans Faction of Muslim League Jammu Kashmir

The MHA issued a notification declaring that the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction), referred to as the MLJK-MA, chaired by Masarat Alam Bhat, is known for its anti-India and pro-Pakistan propaganda…reports Asian Lite News

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on Wednesday declared the ‘Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction)’ MLJK-M as an ‘Unlawful Association’ under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act with immediate effect for the next five years, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah saying that “anyone acting against the unity, sovereignty, and integrity of our nation will not be spared and face the full wrath of the law”.

The MHA issued a notification declaring that the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction), referred to as the MLJK-MA, chaired by Masarat Alam Bhat, is known for its anti-India and pro-Pakistan propaganda.

The Ministry’s action against the group followed input that “the objectives of MLJK-MA are to get freedom of Jammu and Kashmir from India so as to realise the merger of Jammu and Kashmir with Pakistan and establish Islamic rule in Jammu and Kashmir.”

“In exercise of the powers conferred by sub-section (1) of Section 3 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (37 of 1967), the Central Government hereby declares the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) as an unlawful association with immediate effect for a period of five years,” reads the notification.

Soon after the notification was issued, the Home Minister took to ‘X’, formerly Twitter, mentioning that “the ‘Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction)’/MLJK-MA is declared as an ‘Unlawful Association’ under UAPA.”

“This organization and its members are involved in anti-national and secessionist activities in J&K supporting terrorist activities and inciting people to establish Islamic rule in J&K. The PM @narendramodi government’s message is loud and clear that anyone acting against the unity, sovereignty, and integrity of our nation will not be spared and face the full wrath of the law,” Amit Shah posted on ‘X’.

As per the MHA notification, the members of the MLJK-MA have been indulging in the secessionist activities in the Jammu and Kashmir, and the leaders and members of the group have been involved in raising funds through various sources including Pakistan and its proxy organisations for perpetrating unlawful activities, including supporting terrorist activities, sustained stone-pelting on Security Forces in Jammu and Kashmir.

The notification points that the MLJK-MA and its members by their activities show sheer disrespect towards the constitutional authority and constitutional set up of the country; and its leaders and members, particularly its Chairman Masarat Alam Bhat, have been indulging in unlawful activities, which are prejudicial to the integrity, sovereignty, security and communal harmony of the country.

The MHA said there had been a number of inputs showing linkages of the MLJK-MA with banned terrorist organisations; as well as the MLJK-MA and its members have been involved in supporting terrorist activities with an intent to create a reign of terror in the country, thereby endangering the security and public order of the state, and its anti-national activities also show disrespect and disregard to the constitutional authority and sovereignty of the state, hence an immediate and prompt action is required against the organisation.

“The Central government is of the opinion that if there is no immediate curb or control of unlawful activities of the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction), it will use this opportunity to continue with the anti-national activities which are detrimental to the territorial integrity, security and sovereignty of the country; continue advocating the secession of Jammu and Kashmir from the Union of India while disputing its accession to the Union of India; and

continue propagating false narratives and anti-national sentiments among the people of Jammu and Kashmir with the intention to cause disaffection against India and disrupt public order,” mentions the notification.

Noting these reasons, the notification says, the Central government is firmly of the opinion that having regard to the activities of the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction), it is necessary to declare the Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction) as an ‘unlawful association’ with immediate effect. (ANI)

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J&K Risks Gaza Fate Without Dialogue: Farooq Abdullah

Dr Farooq Abdullah addressing press conferences after all-party meeting in Srinagar.(photo: Umar Qadir)

Farooq Abdullah urged the leaders of both India and Pakistan to find a solution to their bilateral issues through dialogue….reports Asian Lite News

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Farooq Abdullah, cautioned that the Union Territory could face a fate similar to Gaza, currently embroiled in conflict with Israel, if a political dialogue is not initiated.

He also urged the leaders of both India and Pakistan to find a solution to their bilateral issues through dialogue.

india, pakistan(twitter)

Invoking former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the National Conference President said while speaking to ANI, “Atal Bihari Vajpayee had said that we can change our friends but not our neighbours. If we remain friendly with our neighbours, both will progress.”

The NC leader mentioned that PM Modi also said that ‘war is not an option now’ and ‘the matter should be resolved through dialogue”.

Farooq asked both the nuclear power countries, India and Pakistan, “Where is the dialogue?”

“Where is the dialogue? Nawaz Sharif is about to become the Prime Minister of Pakistan, and they are saying that we are ready to talk (with India), but what is the reason why we are not ready to talk?”

“If we do not find a solution through dialogue, we (Kashmir) will meet the same fate as Gaza and Palestine, which are being bombed by Israel…”, he warned.

In 1999, former Indian PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee visited Pakistan just a few months before the Kargil War began. In the year 2015, PM Narendra Modi held a meeting with Nawaz in Pakistan during a surprise visit to the country. Pakistan’s continuous attempts to infiltrate Indian territory with terrorists have been the reason for unfriendly relations.

The 26/11 Mumbai attacks left an unending outrage and pain amongst Indians. India-Pakistan ties nosedived after the abrogation of Article 370 in the year 2019.

 Farooq Abdullah’s latest comments come just days after four soldiers were killed in a terror attack on an Army Convoy in Poonch sector.   (ANI)

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