The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — The Ministry of External Affairs has responded to concerns raised by the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association (JKSA) regarding the safety of Kashmiri students in Kyrgyzstan.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Nasir Khuehami, the National Convenor of the Association, confirmed that the Ministry assured them of the stability of the situation in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan.

The Association had previously urged External Affairs Minister Dr S. Jaishankar to evacuate Indian students following reports of mob attacks and violence in Bishkek. However, the Ministry's response, conveyed through a letter, stated that there are no restrictions on transportation or movement of people in the area.

According to the Ministry, Manas International Airport in Bishkek remains accessible to Indian students, with operational air connectivity to India. Direct flights are available from Bishkek, as well as through other cities such as Almaty, Dubai, Istanbul, and Tashkent.

Students have been advised to plan their travel for vacations via commercial flights in consultation with their respective university administrations after completing their exams. Already, some students have begun returning to India using commercial flights, as confirmed by Khuehami.

The Indian Embassy in Bishkek is in regular communication with the Association, providing assurance of full support if needed for Kashmiri students.

Expressing gratitude for the Ministry's prompt intervention, the Jammu and Kashmir Students Association acknowledged the relief provided to students and their families. They also appreciated the coordination of Bishkek Embassy officials and the Ambassador, who took the issue seriously with Kyrgyz authorities.

Families of students studying in Bishkek and other cities of Kyrgyzstan have expressed satisfaction with the response and intervention, noting that all students are reported to be safe and secure.

PULWAMA — In a significant electoral moment, Kashmir witnessed its first major polls after the abrogation of Article 370, with hopeful residents expressing their aspirations for robust parliamentary representation.

Speaking to The Kashmir Pulse, citizens voiced optimism about electing deserving candidates who would echo their aspirations in the Parliament. Many first-time voters emphasized the importance of having a voice in the Parliament that resonates with their dreams and concerns.

Moreover, there's a palpable desire among Kashmiris for the conduct of assembly elections by the Election Commission of India, enabling the establishment of a local government for addressing grassroots issues.

The Election Commission reported a voter turnout of approximately 36.58% in Srinagar, one of Kashmir's three parliamentary constituencies, by 8 pm on May 13. This turnout is a notable increase compared to previous elections, marking a potential shift in the region's political engagement.

Srinagar, encompassing volatile areas of the city and surrounding districts, has historically struggled with low voter participation. However, Monday's turnout of 36.58% is the highest recorded since 1996, signalling a significant shift in civic participation.

The Lok Sabha Elections 2024 mark a pivotal moment for Kashmir since the BJP-led government's controversial decision to revoke Article 370 in August 2019, altering the region's constitutional status and dividing it into Union Territories.

In this election, the absence of boycott calls is noteworthy, reflecting a renewed sense of political participation among Kashmiris. Srinagar, a bastion of the Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (JKNC), has witnessed keen competition among candidates, including Aga Ruhullah of NC, Waheed-ur-Rehman Para of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Mohammad Ashraf Mir of the J&K Apni Party (AP) backed by J&K People’s Conference (PC).

The 2024 general election signals a potential turning point in Kashmir's electoral turf, offering residents an opportunity to shape their political future amidst evolving circumstances. With Baramulla and Anantnag-Rajouri set to vote in subsequent rounds, Kashmir's political journey continues to unfold in the post-Article 370 era.

GANDERBAL — Sehran Bhat, a 12-year-old boy from Dangerpora Laar area in Ganderbal district, has achieved a remarkable feat by authoring his first book titled "History of Kashmir".

The young author drew inspiration from the poems he encountered in his school books, sparking a desire to contribute to the literary world.

Grateful for the support he received, Bhat acknowledged the pivotal role played by his family, particularly his father, who suggested the title of the book. Originally titled "The Untold Story of Kashmir," Bhat later opted for "History of Kashmir" to better encapsulate the content.

Highlighting the cognitive benefits of writing, Bhat emphasized its role in overall brain development while also acknowledging the importance of play. "It enhances overall brain development, given the constant exposure to books and the necessity to read extensively. However, I am not discouraging playing, and it is important too," he stated.

Detailing his writing process, Bhat dedicated the first chapter of his book to the transformation of the Valley into a Union Territory and the second chapter to the history of its inception, seeking guidance from teachers along the way.

The 10-chapter book delves into Kashmir’s history, spanning Sikh rule, Muslim rule, and post-1947 events. Bhat revealed that the book was published by Nitya Publication, with whom he connected through social media, with his father facilitating the publication process.

Motivated by his curiosity about the differences between current times and the past, Bhat expressed his future plans. "I will continue writing, exploring poetry and other subjects. However, I have decided not to delve further into history," he affirmed.

Sehran Bhat's achievement serves as a testament to the potential of the young minds of Kashmir and their ability to contribute meaningfully to various fields including the literary landscape.

Experience the soul-stirring magic of Kashmiri culture as Ishfaq Kawa takes centre stage in Lassipora Pulwama, weaving a tapestry of emotions with his live rendition of a timeless classic 'Ha Gulo Tohi Ma Sa Wuchwan Yaar Meon'. Set against the backdrop of majestic mountains and blooming valleys, Ishfaq Kawa breathes life into the poignant verses penned by the legendary Ghulam Ahmad Mahjooor.

As Ishfaq's mellifluous voice fills the air, transporting listeners to a realm where love and longing intertwine, the lyrics resonate with every heart present. "Ha Gulo Tohi Ma Sa Wuchwan Yaar Meon," he sings, invoking the imagery of flowers whispering secrets of love. Each word, each note, is infused with the essence of Kashmiri ethos, carrying the weight of centuries-old traditions and sentiments.

With every verse, Ishfaq delves deeper into the yearning for a beloved lost in the labyrinth of time. "Wini Diwan Poshan Prichomm Yambar Zalan," he croons, his voice echoing the ache of separation, seeking solace in the whispers of nature. The audience is spellbound, enraptured by the raw emotion pouring forth from the stage.

As the melody flows like a gentle stream through the gathering, Ishfaq's rendition transcends mere performance, becoming a heartfelt ode to love's enduring power. "Chani Yin Phali Dilbaro Gulzar Miyun," he sings, igniting hope in the hearts of all who listen, promising a garden of blossoms where pain once reigned supreme.

In the poignant climax of the song, Ishfaq channels the anguish and resignation of Mahjooor's verses, delivering a powerful message of resilience in the face of unrequited love. "Ulfatuq Sodha Kunum Gum Meyl Hytum," he laments, his voice heavy with sorrow yet buoyed by an unwavering spirit.

As the final notes fade into the night, Ishfaq Kawa leaves an indelible mark on the souls of his audience, a testament to the enduring legacy of Kashmiri poetry and music. In his performance, he not only honours the words of Ghulam Ahmad Mahjooor but also reaffirms the timeless beauty of Kashmiri culture for generations to come.

Dive into the rich, emotive sounds of Kashmir as Ishfaq Kawa delivers a captivating live rendition of the heartfelt Kashmiri tune, "Mya Mashook Havi Na Paan".

Experience the magic as Ishfaq Kawa graces the stage, transporting listeners with soulful melodies and stirring vocals that resonate with the beauty and depth of Kashmiri culture.

Join us on a musical journey filled with passion and emotion, as we celebrate the timeless allure of "Mya Mashook Havi Na Paan" in this unforgettable performance.

SRINAGAR — In a display of unity and resilience, hundreds of individuals from diverse backgrounds took to the streets of Kashmir on Thursday to condemn the killing of two young workers from Punjab.

According to reports received here, candlelight vigils were held across various districts of Kashmir, spanning north, south, and central regions, as a poignant protest against the recent killings. Demonstrators passionately voiced their plea for an end to violence, advocating for a future characterized by peace and fairness.

During these gatherings, participants resounded with chants denouncing the senseless loss of innocent lives and stood in solidarity with the bereaved families of the victims. They lamented these tragic events as sombre chapters in Kashmir's history, evoking widespread sorrow and anguish among the populace.

Echoing a collective desire for tranquillity, the demonstrators underscored the imperative of moving beyond the spectre of violence and embracing a life of harmony alongside their loved ones. They emphasized the inherent value and sanctity of human existence, urging against its wanton squandering.

Furthermore, the protesters vehemently condemned these acts of aggression as deliberate endeavours to disrupt peace and impede the region's developmental progress.

The recent violence unfolded on Wednesday evening when Amritpal Singh, a 31-year-old hailing from Amritsar, Punjab, fell victim to a fatal shooting by militants in the Shaheed Gunj area of Srinagar. His companion, Rohit, aged 25, sustained grave injuries and tragically succumbed to them at a tertiary care hospital in Srinagar on Thursday morning.

Immerse yourself in the soul-stirring melodies of Kashmir as Ishfaq Kawa takes the stage with a mesmerizing live performance of the poignant Kashmiri song, "Poshmati Janan."

This heartfelt composition beautifully captures the emotions of separation from a loved one and the profound yearning that follows.

Ishfaq Kawa's soulful rendition, accompanied by musical instruments, will transport you to the serene valleys of Kashmir, where love and longing find a voice in the enchanting notes of "Poshmati Janan."

Listen to the unforgettable song that transcends boundaries and resonates with the universal theme of love's enduring power.

KOLKATTA — A young student from central Kashmir’s Budgam district was found dead at a college hostel in the West Bengal capital city of Kolkatta. The student is a resident of Yarikhah Khansahab village of Budgam.

Family sources told the news agency KNT that they received a call from college authorities that their ward was found dead at the college hostel.

The victim student Muhammad Umar Ganai son of Bashir Ahmed was studying engineering at the Budge Budge Institute of Technology, popularly known as BBIT College.

The cause of death is not known yet. “We have left for Kolkatta to ascertain the cause of death of our beloved,” one of the family members said.

SRINAGAR — A soul-stirring Kashmiri song titled "Kya Karie Korimol" from Coke Studio Bharat has taken the internet by storm, capturing the hearts of netizens, especially those in Kashmir. The music video, which focuses on Kashmir's traditional Wazwan feast and the financial struggles faced by the bride's father, has garnered widespread acclaim for its emotional portrayal of the father-daughter bond on a wedding day.

The Emotional Journey: Unveiling the father-daughter bond in 'Kya Karie Korimol'

The song, performed by Alif band, Aashima Mahajan, and Noor Mohammad, has resonated deeply with listeners. It highlights the immense compassion, protection, and love shared between a father and daughter, showcasing their unique connection that grows stronger with time.

Preserving Tradition: Exploring Kashmir's Wazwan feast and its significance in the song

With poignant and melancholic lyrics penned by Alif, the song delves into the emotional journey of a bride and her father as they prepare for the wedding feast. The narrative beautifully portrays the financial hardships that the bride's father endures to arrange the elaborate Wazwan feast, a traditional and cherished aspect of Kashmiri weddings.

Accompanied by Aashima Mahajan's soulful vocals and Noor Mohammad's mesmerizing Sufi music, the song captures the essence of Kashmir's cultural heritage. It celebrates the beautiful bond between a father and his daughter, offering a glimpse into their shared love and unbreakable connection.

Impact and Reflection: How 'Kya Karie Korimol' sparks discussions on family, love, and cultural heritage

The music video has sparked a wave of appreciation and nostalgia among listeners, who have praised its relatable theme, heartfelt lyrics, and enchanting melody. Many viewers have shared personal stories and sentiments, reminiscing about their own father-daughter relationships and the emotions evoked during weddings.

The viral success of "Kya Karie Korimol" underscores the power of music to unite communities and evoke strong emotions. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural traditions and cherishing family bonds in a rapidly changing world.

As the song continues to captivate audiences, it has become a symbol of the enduring love and sacrifices made by parents, particularly fathers, in ensuring the happiness of their children during significant life events. It has also generated discussions about the need for greater support and understanding of the financial burdens faced by families during weddings.

With its heartfelt lyrics, captivating melodies, and celebration of the father-daughter bond, "Kya Karie Korimol" stands as a testament to the beauty and depth of Kashmiri culture, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of listeners worldwide.

SRINAGAR — Hundreds of Kashmiri students this year are likely to skip Common University Entrance Test (CUET) as a major hurdle for these students is to appear for this test at different examination centres outside Jammu and Kashmir.

If the National Testing Agency doesn’t designate examination centres in Kashmir Valley, these students are likely to skip the test.

The Common University Entrance Test, earlier known as Central Universities Common Entrance Test, is an all-India test being organized by the National Testing Agency for admission to various Undergraduate, Integrated, Postgraduate, Diploma, Certification courses and Research Programmes in 45 Central Universities of India.

Two days back, National Testing Agency issued an exam city intimation slip that shocked the Kashmir-based students whose examination centres have been designated outside the erstwhile state. The entrance test will take place on May 25, 26, 27 and 28 and if students are to be believed, they won’t appear if NTA doesn’t change its decision.

“I am not financially sound. The examination centre for my daughter has been designated at Bhatinda Punjab. Naturally, she will miss it as I can’t afford the airfare,” Inayat Ahmed, a resident of Hajin Bandipora told the news agency KNT.

The ‘diktat’ from NTA triggered a protest in Valley. Distressed students have been appealing to authorities to impress upon the NTA to set up examination centres in Kashmir for Kashmiri students.

“This is ridiculous, tantamount to harassment. Students have gone into depression. Don’t know why this happens to Kashmiri students only,” said an agitated parent, adding that he can’t send his daughter outside Jammu and Kashmir.

Parents as well as students said that domestic flight fares are at par with international rates. Students from poor backgrounds can’t afford to travel outside Jammu and Kashmir. They called upon Lieutenant Governor of J&K Manoj Sinha to promptly intervene and address the issue by establishing examination centres within Kashmir itself.

Meanwhile, several political leaders including Ghulam Nabi Azad, Syed Altaf Bukhari, GM Shaheen and others have made a fervent appeal to LG Manoj Sinha to intervene in the matter and save the future of the students.

UTTAR PRADESH — Students from Jammu and Kashmir have come under sharp criticism for offering ‘Namaz’ at the University campus in Mathura district of Uttar Pradesh.

Right-wing organization All India Hindu Mahasabha has demanded action against the students and even threatened to perform Shuddhikaran (purification process) on the campus with Gangajal and recite Hanuman Chalisa if the university fails to take any action against the Kashmiri students.

Sanskriti University, however, has clarified that the matter is being exaggerated and the video circulated on social media is a month old. The University has asked Kashmiri students to offer prayers in their hostel and not in the open.

All India Hindu Mahasabha submitted a memorandum to the district administration seeking action against the students as well as the university authorities.

“Eighty-two Muslim students are studying under government scholarship. Many of them hail from Jammu and Kashmir. It has been noted that for many days, these students are offering Namaz on the university campus,” the memorandum claimed.

PAHALGAM — Days after the famous Bollywood duo Ranveer Singh and Alia Bhat landed in the world-famous ski resort of Gulmarg to shoot one of the songs for 'Rocky Aur Rani Ki Prem Kahani', filmmakers of Tamil industry – Kollywood, reached south Kashmir's Pahalgam to shoot for their upcoming action movie.

People with the knowhow of things told the news agency GNS that two famous superstars of the Tamil film industry, Vijay Chandrasekhar and Trisha Krishnan are shooting in the health resort Pahalgam for their upcoming movie "Leo" – a gangster action film directed by Lokesh Kanagaraj.

One of the crew members talking exclusively to GNS confirmed the shooting of the movie and praised the people of Kashmir, terming them hard-working, hospitable, loveable and helpful.

He said that they struggled a bit while shooting in minus 13-14 degrees, but it was people of this area who cooperated with them in making their shoot smooth and now it is working all fine for them. “Each early morning, they join us,” he said, adding they are really hard workers and are happy to work with them.

Terming Kashmir as the best location for shooting, he said that filmmakers across India should switch to this beautiful place to shoot their movies, songs and other work as this place has all the potential one needs in the industry.

In a message to filmmakers, he said, “The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir with its breathtaking beauty and an incredible landscape dotted with meadows, valleys, high altitude passes, dense forests, lakes, apple orchards and snow-capped peaks provides just the picture-perfect setting for shooting a film.”

We are living in a modern world where everything is easily available. Everyday discoveries come into existence and scientists and inventors produce useful things which make our hard work easier than they were. We are capable to do everything in less time like washing clothes in five minutes used to take us hours.

Modern technology has led to an easy and beautiful life. Its effect can be seen clearly in the present generation as they are living an easier life than their parents. They are also very much educated and mature at an early age. They seem to have intelligence compared to their parents. But it is also true that if anything has a bright side, it also possesses a dark side and it matters in our present generation.

Our modern environment has good effects as well as bad effects on our generation. That's why there is no doubt that our generation is suffering from depression, madness for fame and money, and concern for physical fitness and appearance. These are only because of maturity at an early age. There is no doubt that youth is depressed—fostering previous events in their mind and compacting in future thoughts.

Their madness for fame is such that they want to become famous at an early age. They don't want to be known by their father's name. They want their new identity, which makes their salient personality. It is right but an early age, it turns dangerous because of their vagueness and crudeness and due to this, they can be attracted to drugs. Their trance and imagination for luxury life result in failure in their careers.

Because everyone has fallen into their own greed, so today nothing is right and real just like the food is not pure. For better production, simple farmers use chemicals that give high production but no nutrients. Due to this, our generation has a deficiency of nutrients which gives them diseases like myopia, hypermetropia, hair fall, anemia, weak bones, etc. Low energy turns them lazy and that's why they don't take interest in the study, sports, tours, etc.

Similarly, they are very much worried about their appearance, since they are living in the modern world where new fashions and trends come into existence every day. This generation wants to follow these trends and in order to do so, they need money but not everyone can afford the same. It put them into another problem. They don't sustain living with the old ones as it makes them feel uncomfortable. They want to show off to their friends, relatives, neighbours so that their rank would be high.

The previous generation was not as bad as we think. They were also very happy in other ways. They might be suffering from many difficulties but those difficulties were beneficial for them. Though they know the reality of people clearly, these things matter to them. Our old generation was not as unlucky as we think in view of the modern world because they were free from these things. Their life was also easy in their view. Hard life didn't matter and our generation is suffering from many things which make them forget their luckiness.

How can they get out of these things? What should be done? First, depression and anxiety are bad results of feelings and emotions. These are the result of extraordinary pain. But to overcome these, it should be fixed in the minds of the present generation that the past has gone and the future is coming but the present is in their hands.

At the present, there are many opportunities and ways to correct the mistakes of the past as well as to make the future better and satisfied. They should remove the thoughts which make them feel sad. During these times, they should not be alone. They should stay where they can find happiness and enjoy themselves. If parents want to get their children out of this situation, they should ask them about their problems and reassure them that nothing is so wrong that can't be corrected.

Secondly, their intense feelings for fame need to be practical. It depends upon their condition and what type of fame they want. If they want to become famous in their career, put positive thoughts in their minds and encourage them but if they want to become famous with a bad attitude, action should be taken to desist them.

Similarly for money, these people should be told that money is not everything. If they have enough money for their needs, then they are happy and if they can make more money along with their happiness, that's fine. But it should not be necessarily acquired with trouble and killing happiness. If they are unemployed, tell them that in modern society, they can do their own business easily. To do so, they can get the initial investment by taking loans.

Thirdly, as far as health problems are concerned, they should be aware that apart from money and fame, health should be taken care of because money and fame can be owned by a person when he is healthy but health cannot be made by money or fame so they should eat healthily and breathe fresh air. Since today's food is not healthy, so they can get nutrition by taking nutritional pills according to their need.

SRINAGAR — Senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar on Sunday hit out at the Lieutenant Governor-led Jammu and Kashmir UT administration, saying the authorities tried to prevent the people from joining the Bharat Jodo Yatra but people defied all hurdles to take part in the Yatra.

In an exclusive chat with The Kashmir Pulse, the Congress leader said that it is a historic moment that Rahul Gandhi unfurled the tricolour at Lal Chowk as it was the location where Jawaharlal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, unfurled the Indian national flag in 1948, shortly after the country gained independence from the British Empire.

"The leadership of Rahul Gandhi is now established with the historic Bharat Jodo Yatra, which no one can question and all those people who spoke ill about him stand isolated. This Yatra was not about politics but to unite the country," he said when asked about the impact of the Yatra.

He went on to state, "I acknowledge the courage of Kashmiri people who participated in the Yatra in large numbers."

SRINAGAR — Donning the Kashmiri traditional gown (Pheran), Congress leader and Member of Parliament (MP) Rahul Gandhi on Monday said he was warned that he might be attacked in Kashmir but people here did not give him hand grenades but hearts full of love.

Amid snowfall in Srinagar, according to Srinagar-based news agency KDC, opposition party leaders joined Rahul Gandhi to mark the culmination of the Bharat Jodo Yatra. Leaders of DMK, NC, PDP, CPI, RSP, and IUML were present for the event.

The Congress rally was held at the Sher-e-Kashmir Cricket Stadium. Congress President Mallikarjun Karge and the party's General Secretary Priyanka Gandhi Vadra were also present at the rally.

At the event, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge said, “Bharat Jodo Yatra was not for winning elections but against hate.”

Rahul Gandhi said he was warned about an alleged attack on him during the final rally marking the conclusion of the Bharat Jodo Yatra in Srinagar. “Several people advised me to traverse the Yatra in a vehicle. My security team, KC Venugopal, and those organizing it advised me to do so. The administration, maybe to scare me, said that grenades would be thrown at me. Why shouldn’t I give those who hate me a chance to turn the colour of my white shirt to red?" he asked.

He added, "My family and Gandhi ji have taught me that if I have to live my life, I must live it fearlessly. But as I thought, instead of tossing grenades, the people of Jammu and Kashmir opened their hearts and embraced me.”

Speaking at the rally, Rahul Gandhi lashed out at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and said that the rally was not organized for him or Congress but was against the ideology that was destroying the foundation of the country. "People of J&K didn’t give me hand grenades but love," he said.

Rahul said, “What is Kashmiryat? It’s the thought of Shiv ji… on the other hand, in Islam, it’s called Fanaa. Thinking is the same, the thought of Lord Shiva is Kashmiriyat, you can call it 'Shunyata' and I have attacked my own thoughts and my pride.”

"Like phone calls would’ve gone to Pulwama martyrs, I also received a similar call when I was in America about my father’s assassination. People die in Kashmir, I understand what it feels when you get such phone calls," Rahul said, adding that the aim of this Yatra is to stop such phone calls to any son, father or mother. Be it a soldier or common man.

Speaking at a public rally in Srinagar, Rahul Gandhi said, "I did not do the Yatra for myself or Congress, the aim is to stand against an ideology that wants to destroy the foundation of the country."

"I went from down (Kanyakumari) to up (Kashmir). I was thinking that earlier my ancestors came from up to down (Allahabad). When I was coming here (Jammu and Kashmir), I felt I was coming home," he said.

Gandhi, while narrating a story of four children whom he met during the Bharat Jodo Yatra, said that they were beggars who did not wear sweaters, and shivered in winter, which inspired him not to do the same during the Yatra.

"…Four children came to me. They were beggars and had no clothes on…I hugged them…They were cold and shivering. Maybe they didn't have food. I thought that if they're not wearing jackets or sweaters, I too shouldn't wear the same…," Gandhi said.

While signing off from the stage at SK Stadium here, Rahu said, “I have not done this work for myself or the party. But this work was done for the people of India. It is our endeavour that we stand unitedly against the ideology that is trying to break this country. I know once we stand unitedly against it, we can beat them and remove that ideology from their hearts. We are opening a shop of love in the marketplace of hatred.”

Speaking at the finale of the Bharat Jodo Yatra, CPI leader D Raja said, "All secular parties must come together to liberate the country from BJP."

Speaking on the occasion, Rahul’s sister, Priyanka Gandhi said that the main message of BJY was to spread love and call for the end of hatred by bringing the hearts together. “Finally, we have succeeded,” she said.

Jammu and Kashmir ex-chief minister of erstwhile state and National Conference vice president Omar Abdulla at the culmination of Bharat Jodo Yatra said, "I request Rahul Gandhi to undertake Yatra from west to east, would like to walk with him."

While as PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti said, "Whole country is seeing a ray of hope in Rahul Gandhi."

SRINAGAR — A self-styled ‘guide’ has duped at least 10 Kashmiri pilgrims, after taking money from them to show sacred shrines and places in Iran, Iraq and other countries, leaving them mid-way in Beirut, the capital city of Lebanon.

At least 10 pilgrims are stuck in Delhi this time, requesting Jammu and Kashmir administration to help them return home as they are without money.

One of the pilgrims, Ghulam Hasan Wani of Devara Yetalampora village of Singhpora Pattan, told the news agency KNT over the phone from Delhi that a guide Syed Nasir from Harennarah Pattan took Rs one lakh per person to help them on pilgrimage to Karbala and other sacred sites.

“After performing the pilgrimage, the guide left us mid-way in Beirut without informing us. He is still absconding. We suffered heavily as we were not having money with us. We sold our valuables including the earrings and gold chains of women pilgrims accompanying us. Somehow, we have managed to reach New Delhi,” he said.

The pilgrims said that they have no money to return back to Valley as they have no money and are starving.

They appealed to LG Manoj Sinha-led administration to help them in returning home and direct police to take action against the guide. “We can’t narrate our sufferings in words. We are illiterates and yet he (guide) left us in the lurch,” said a woman pilgrim.

SRINAGAR — With the surge in COVID-19 cases in various countries, Doctors' Association Kashmir (DAK) on Thursday said there is no need to panic as most people in Kashmir have hybrid immunity because of a combination of widespread natural infection and vaccination.

“Hybrid immunity offers robust and long-lasting protection against COVID-19,” said DAK President and Influenza expert Dr. Nisar ul Hassan in a statement issued to the news agency GNS.

Dr. Hassan said that according to a new study, people with hybrid immunity developed by both vaccination and previous infections have significant protection against future Covid infections. “The research has found that a major and durable immune response occurs if a person has been both vaccinated and got infected with the virus,” he said.

The DAK President said more than 90 percent population in Kashmir is vaccinated and people have contracted the virus more than once during three COVID-19 waves that were witnessed since the beginning of the pandemic.

“The third wave was caused by omicron and its subvariants which are responsible for COVID-19 cases globally even now. We have been exposed to almost all of them over the last few months without there being any sign of a surge in cases or hospitalization. And, we don’t see this trend changing soon,” he said.

“So there is no need to panic over Covid rise in China and other countries as Kashmiris have excellent protection against currently circulating variants,” said Dr. Nisar. He added, “However, we need to enhance genome sequencing of COVID-19 to look for newer variants.”

“There is an urgent need to set up a genetic testing lab in Kashmir to detect and track COVID-19 variants,” he added.

SRINAGAR — Three Kashmiri students were released on Monday following their arrest from Agra engineering college on alleged cheering for Pakistan for their win over India.

The national spokesperson of the Jammu and Kashmir students association, Nasir Khuehami told the news agency Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the three Kashmiri students who were arrested for allegedly celebrating Pakistan’s cricket team's victory have been released.

Allahabad High Court had granted bail to the trio Showkat Ahmad Ghani, Arshad Yousuf Paul and Inayat Altaf Sheikh nearly a month back.

The students were beneficiaries of the Prime Minister’s Special Scholarship Scheme for the economically weaker sections of Jammu and Kashmir.

They were arrested last year in October. On April 01, the court had asked the students to furnish a personal bond and two sureties each before they are released from jail.

SRINAGAR — For the first time, a young girl in Kashmir memorised 30 chapters of the Holy Quran in just 38 days.

She is part of nine girls from Kashmir who have completed memorising 30 chapters of the Holy Quran within a year. Hailing from Srinagar, Bandipora and Kupwara, these girls are aged between 11 to 18 years.

One girl memorised the Holy Quran in 38 days, others took two months and the rest completed the same within four months.

“I wanted to learn all the Aloom and translation of the Holy Quran in the future,” said a girl while talking to the news agency Kashmir News Observer (KNO). “I want to become Alima in the future and want to fulfil the dream of my parents.”

A teacher of the girls said, “I am thankful to Allah. It is like a dream come true after these girls completed memorising the Holy Quran within a year and this record has been created from here.”

“I suggest parents give Quranic education with other education like English, Urdu, Science etc,” he said.

SRINAGAR — The Allahabad court on Wednesday ordered the release of three Kashmiri students, studying engineering in an Agra college, who were arrested on sedition and cyber-terrorism charges.

As per the news agency Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the three students Arsheed Yusuf, Inayat Altaf Sheikh and Showkat Ahmed Ganai - students of an engineering college in Agra - were arrested on October 27 last year by the Agra Police, for cheering for Pakistan team’s victory against India in a T20 World Cup match.

J&K Students Union President Nasir Khuehami tweeted: “The Allahabad High Court today passed an order to release on bail three Kashmiri students, who were detained in Agra jail on charges of sedition for cheering on the victory of Pakistani team in T20.”

Family members of the trio confirmed the development to KNO, stating that the legal formalities are underway to secure the release of the three students.