The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — Veteran CPI(M) leader Mohammed Yousuf Tarigami, in a candid interview with The Kashmir Pulse, shared a personal and political revelation that he was the first person in Jammu and Kashmir to be detained under the Public Safety Act (PSA).

The interview, conducted by journalist Showkat Dar at Tarigami’s official residence, sheds light on his early years, his arrest under Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah's government, and the origins of his widely recognized surname, "Tarigami."

Recalling his arrest in 1979, Tarigami said, “I was arrested during Sheikh Abdullah’s tenure as Chief Minister. During a press conference, a PTI journalist, P.N. Jalali, asked Sheikh Abdullah about my arrest. Abdullah responded, 'Woh Jo Tarigam Wala,' referring to my native place. From then on, I became known as Mohammed Yousuf Tarigami in the media.”

Tarigami, who has remained a committed member of the CPI(M), spoke about his unshakable faith to the party's ideology. “I see the CPI(M) as a mission, not just a political party. I've never considered leaving, and no one has had the courage or audacity to ask me to switch sides,” he says.

Since 1996, Tarigami has been a consistent winner in his constituency, securing four consecutive terms as an MLA. However, he now faces a formidable challenge from Jamaat-i-Islami-backed independent candidate Sayyar Ahmad Reshi in the ongoing 2024 Assembly elections, with voting held on September 18.

Tarigami also opened up about his personal life. He revealed that he only has a daughter, Arunima, as his immediate family. His wife tragically passed away during childbirth, leaving him to raise their daughter alone. He spoke fondly of his nephew, Fayaz Ahmad, who lives with him and manages the family's ancestral property, land, and orchards. "Fayaz is like a son to me, perhaps even more," he added.

Reflecting on his early days, Tarigami shared anecdotes about his youth, including the time when he would run behind buses for a lift. “I loved walking, sometimes for miles, rather than relying on vehicles. Those were simpler times,” he said.

He also reminisced about walking on foot to Jammu during the militancy in Kashmir and expressed his confusion over why he was forced to leave the Valley at that time.

The interview also touched on Tarigami’s views on the changing politics of Kashmir, the concentration of wealth in a few hands despite India’s growing GDP, and his experiences during Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah’s era.

As the 2024 Assembly elections continue, Tarigami’s legacy and commitment to the CPI(M) remain steadfast, even as he faces new political challenges. He is, however, confident to emerge victorious to continue his fifth term as an MLA.

PULWAMA — In a considerable initiative aimed at addressing the health challenges faced by construction workers, the Health and Safety Department of NCC Limited, in collaboration with the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) Awantipora, organized a medical camp on Friday at the CPWD facility of AIIMS Awantipora.

The event, which witnessed overwhelming participation from officials, staff, and labourers, focused on screening and addressing the health risks unique to workers engaged in physically demanding jobs.

As someone who has covered health developments for the past decade, it is evident that such camps are essential, especially for labourers in industries like construction, where physical strain often translates into a range of health problems. From muscular disorders to respiratory issues, these workers endure constant exposure to conditions that heighten the risk of illness. This camp, therefore, plays a vital role in offering preventive care.

According to Faisal Alam Bhat, in charge of the Health Department at NCC Limited, the medical camp epitomizes the company's commitment to corporate social responsibility. "Given the nature of the work here, it's imperative to ensure that workers receive timely health check-ups. Our aim is to make these camps a regular occurrence," Bhat said, indicating that similar initiatives, such as annual blood donation drives, are already being conducted.

By midday, over 200 patients had been examined by the medical team, with that number expected to rise to 500 by the end of the day. The patients not only received free diagnostic tests but were also provided with necessary medications on the spot.

The feedback from those attending the camp reflected the value of this initiative. "The doctors were thorough in their examinations, and the entire process was seamless. I feel reassured after today's visit," said KSM Raju, a labourer who was among the first to be treated.

Another worker, Pintu Kumar Yadav, applauded the collaboration between NCC Limited and AIIMS, remarking, "It’s heartening to see such proactive steps being taken for our health."

This effort, Bhat stressed, is not a one-off. "We are duty-bound to making these medical camps a regular feature," he reiterated, stating that the health of workers remains a priority for NCC Limited.

PULWAMA — The Friday following Eid-e-Milad-un-Nabi was observed across the Union Territory with religious fervour. In this connection, hundreds of devotees participated in Eid-e-Milad procession in southern Kashmir's Pulwama town.

The procession was taken out from multiple areas of Pulwama town and later culminated near Jamia Masjid Pulwama.

While raising slogans of the highness of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), people in large numbers thronged the Pulwama market. Holding green flags, people from various areas participated in the Milad procession.

Mohammad Akram, Mirwaiz for Pulwama district, was leading the procession. Speaking on the occasion, Mirwaiz said that they are grateful for the occasion as it provided them with the opportunity to observe the Friday following Eid-e-Milad Nabi with a large number of devotees.

"We have the chance to demonstrate our unity as Muslims on this day, which serves as a reminder that all Muslims are the same throughout the world," he continued.

SRINAGAR — National Conference (NC) leader Bashir Ahmad Nengroo on Sunday criticized the BJP-led Central government, accusing it of undermining secular principles with the Waqf Amendment Bill 2024.

Nengroo, speaking exclusively with The Kashmir Pulse from Pulwama district in southern Kashmir, said the bill is a direct attack on the Constitutional rights of Muslims and threatens to strip Waqf properties from the community. “The BJP is using this bill to grab Muslim properties and marginalize the community in India’s democratic setup,” he said.

He further accused the government of consistently targeting minority groups, particularly Muslims, through divisive and hateful politics. "They advocate Ram Rajya, but their actions are harmful to minorities," Nengroo added.

He urged parliamentarians to reflect on the historical contributions of Muslims, particularly during India's freedom struggle. Nengroo reaffirmed the NC’s commitment to equal rights for all, regardless of religion, region, or caste, and emphasized the party's dedication to restoring statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, including Ladakh, and working towards the reinstatement of Article 370.

Nengroo also questioned the BJP's claims of improved security in Kashmir, pointing to ongoing attacks that continue to claim the lives of security forces. "The BJP cherry-picks what to highlight, ignoring the ongoing violence in the region," he said.

The Waqf Amendment Bill 2024 has drawn criticism from several opposition leaders who see it as an effort to dilute the rights of Muslims in India.

It is in place to state here that the Waqf (Amendment) Bill 2024 was introduced in the Lok Sabha on August 8, 2024. It seeks to repeal Mussalman Wakf Act, 1923 and amend the Waqf Act, 1995. The Act regulates Waqf property in India and defines Waqf as an endowment of movable or immovable property for purposes considered pious, religious, or charitable under Muslim law. The Bill renames the Act to ‘United Waqf Management, Empowerment, Efficiency and Development Act, 1995’.

SRINAGAR — Sugra Barkati, daughter of jailed Sarjan Ahmad Wagay (Barkati), said on Sunday that she is being subjected to “psychological tactics” by her opponents, especially the National Conference (NC).

Addressing a press conference, Sugra, who emphasized that she is not a politician and only wants her parents released from jail, explained that she has been forced into the public eye “due to compulsion,” with the unusual circumstances placing a heavy burden on her shoulders.

“I have been subjected to psychological tactics, with Omar Abdullah leading the charge when he mentioned my father, saying that people in jail are filing papers against him. Filing the papers was my decision,” she said.

“During the Lok Sabha elections, Omar told Engineer Rashid’s son that if he had known they were running, he wouldn’t have filed his papers,” Sugra explained and added that Omar’s statement was the reason she decided to file papers on behalf of her father, hoping that, if he won, her father might be released from jail.

“One of the NC spokespersons, Ifra Jan, openly called my father a thief; it was like a stab to my chest,” she said. “We are helpless, and we leave it in the hands of people and the Almighty.”

Regarding AIP’s chief, Engineer Sheikh Rashid, Sugra said she had expected AIP to voluntarily give the mandate to her father in Langate. “We were in contact with them since my father’s papers were rejected in Zainapora. We wanted Engineer Rashid to support us because we hardly know anyone from Beerwah and Ganderbal. We thought Langate would make a difference.”

She added that she had been in touch with Engineer Rashid’s brother, Sheikh Khurseed, as well as Inam-un-Nabi, AIP’s spokesperson. “We were assured the matter would be considered, but we never received a response.”

She concluded by questioning, “If it was ‘jail ka badla vote se’ during the Lok Sabha elections, which Engineer Rashid won, then why not now?”

PULWAMA — The death of a young woman from Arihal village of southern Kashmir's Pulwama district due to alleged medical negligence on Saturday has sent shockwaves through the area and also prompted the local administration to launch an immediate investigation.

Saboora Arshid, daughter of Arshid Ahmad, died after she was admitted to Mohammadia Nursing Home in Gangoo area of Pulwama district. According to the family, Saboora’s condition unexpectedly worsened after she was taken to the operation theatre for surgery on her nose.

"She was taken to SMHS Hospital Srinagar without informing the family as the surgery by ENT specialist Dr Showkat Tak started at around 3 pm and there was no update for hours together. This surgery was supposed to take about 15 minutes to an hour as the maximum time. They used a backdoor to take her to SMHS Hospital Srinagar while the family was waiting outside the operation theatre," Furkan Hamid, the cousin of Saboora said while speaking to The Kashmir Pulse.

He added that the body of the deceased was denied even when the family reached SMHS Hospital Srinagar and it was only after chasing their vehicle that the family managed to get the body at around 11 pm.

Saboora’s family, devastated by the loss, is calling for a time-bound and thorough probe into the incident. "We know this is a case of medical negligence and a similar incident happened earlier at District Hospital Pulwama but no strict action followed. However, we hope that the district administration and the local police will thoroughly investigate the case and deliver justice in a timebound manner," Furkan Hamid said.

He lamented, “Saboora went to the hospital seeking a cure for her nose bleeding problem as she was recommended to undergo the surgery but we did not expect that the minor surgery would lead her to death. At least, the doctors should have informed the family if her condition deteriorated. We deserve to know what happened and we expect an investigation based on facts.”

The untimely death of the young woman stirred sharp reactions from the netizens and prompted the local administration to order an enquiry. Deputy Commissioner of Pulwama, Dr Basharat Qayoom (IAS) ordered an inquiry to determine the circumstances surrounding her death.

Dr Qayoom also directed the Tehsildar, along with the Chief Medical Officer and the Station House Officer (SHO) to seal the operation theatre where Saboora had undergone surgery, ensuring all documentation remains intact.

The district administration also ensured that the sealing process would be videographed to maintain transparency. “This was done to preserve evidence and ensure the investigation is conducted fairly,” an official said.

The district administration has assured the public that the inquiry will be conducted with the highest level of scrutiny to address the family's concerns and restore public confidence.

PULWAMA — As the political turf of Jammu and Kashmir intensifies ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections, Waheed-ur-Rehman Para, the Youth Wing President of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the party’s candidate for the Pulwama constituency, spoke in an exclusive video interview on Saturday, offering insights into his political journey, the PDP’s future, and the issues closest to his heart.

Para, who will be contesting in the Assembly elections scheduled for September 18, detailed his motivations for joining the PDP. In conversation with Showkat Dar of The Kashmir Pulse, he explained how witnessing Mehbooba Mufti’s campaigning during a time of deep unrest in the Valley profoundly influenced his decision to align with the party.

“The Valley was gripped by an atmosphere of fear and arrests by the SOG wing of J&K Police, and it was Mehbooba Mufti's campaigns and her commitment to youth empowerment that drew me toward PDP,” Para recalled. He formally joined the party in 2013, recognizing the need to engage young people in a democratic process.

A Youth-Centered Political Vision

Para, who has become a prominent voice for the youth in Kashmir, emphasized that his political involvement stems from a desire to shift perceptions of young Kashmiris. "At a time when youth were often seen as stone-pelters or engaged in violence, I wanted to change that narrative and encourage democratic engagement," Para said.

He believes that while challenges remain, positive changes are beginning to take root. “I am convinced that we are witnessing a shift, and my work will focus on ensuring that this momentum benefits the youth of Kashmir.”

Para is confident that his work with the youth will remain a central part of his political career. "The welfare of the youth will continue to be my priority, as I feel we need to explore better democratic avenues to address the aspirations and frustrations they face."

Addressing the Competition

Regarding the competition he faces from Khalil Bhand, the National Conference (NC) candidate from the same constituency, Para admitted that the battle would be close.

“PDP has a strong base in south Kashmir, and we acknowledge that the competition is tough. However, we are confident that the work done by Mufti Sayeed and Mehbooba Mufti during their tenures will be remembered by the people,” Para stated, noting that the party’s past governance has left a lasting impression.

In addition to discussing the Pulwama constituency, Para also addressed the recent split in Shopian, where several PDP leaders left the party, some joining other political parties and others opting to contest as independents.

“We have to take feedback from the ground, and sometimes, mistakes do happen,” Para said, acknowledging the party's internal challenges. “It is not always possible to keep every member equally satisfied when decisions are made. However, the PDP still has a strong base in Shopian, and efforts are underway to strengthen and unify the cadre.”

Impact of Independent Candidates and Small Parties

With the number of independent candidates and smaller parties, like the Awami Ittehad Party (AIP), contesting in this election, Para admitted there could be an impact on vote shares. “It will certainly split the votes to some degree,” he said. “But it is also the right of every citizen in a democracy to contest, and we respect that right.”

A Vision for Pulwama

Para’s vision for Pulwama extends beyond just the electoral contest. He outlined his plans if elected, focusing on several key areas: addressing the cases of youth imprisoned for political reasons, improving the district’s health sector, ensuring that local residents benefit from the district’s mining contracts, and resolving longstanding drinking water issues.

“The cases of jailed youth (for political reasons) will be my top priority,” Para stated. “We need to work toward resolving these issues so that these young people can lead productive lives.”

Additionally, he stressed the need to develop Pulwama’s healthcare infrastructure, calling it a pressing concern for residents. “There are significant gaps in the health sector, and I will work to bridge those.”

In his vision for the district’s economic future, Para pledged to prioritize local involvement in the allocation of mining contracts, which he sees as a crucial avenue for economic empowerment. “Our people should be the beneficiaries of Pulwama’s natural resources,” he said.

Personal Reflections

The interview also veered briefly into Para’s personal life, touching on his marriage plans. “I have many cases filed against me and have only recently been released from jail,” Para said, alluding to the legal battles he has faced. “Once things normalize, I will be in a better position to make personal decisions in a calmer state of mind.”

Looking Ahead

Given that Waheed-ur-Rehman Para is preparing for the electoral contest in Pulwama, his message remains centered on the youth, their future, and the need for political and economic reforms. His journey from a young observer of Mehbooba Mufti’s campaigns to a key figure in PDP is an indication of the values he champions. Focussed on tackling the pressing challenges, Para is hoping to carry forward the legacy of the PDP, while also forging a path for a new generation of Kashmiri leaders.

PULWAMA — National Conference President Farooq Abdullah on Friday launched a scathing attack on Engineer Rashid, calling him an "agent" of the Centre. Abdullah said this while interacting with reporters in Shopian during an election rally.

When asked about Engineer Rashid's release from jail, Abdullah said, "You know this yourself. Everyone knows this. We are not afraid. No matter how many engineers are released, no one can destroy the National Conference."

The National Conference leader expressed his commitment to the people of Kashmir, saying, "I only have faith in Allah and I have faith in these people."

Dr Abdullah criticized PM Modi for his remarks on Muslim population growth, saying, "Muslims never steal anyone's Mangalsutra; they are committed and law-abiding people."

He emphasized that Muslims are not against India but against the forced imposition of religion and discrimination.

The National Conference leader condemned the "fake propaganda" spread by the BJP, alleging that they have "looted all of India."

He expressed concern over the aim of India being distorted to fuel fighting among communities. Dr Abdullah rejected the idea of an India where religion is used to discriminate and bulldozers are used to destroy Islamic schools.

Meanwhile, the NC patron also visited the residence of Bashir Ahmad Nengroo in Pulwama where a brief ceremony was held during which Bashir Nengroo announced his rejoining the National Conference.

While speaking to the media, Farooq Abdullah said the BJP is trying to divide people in the upcoming Assembly elections. He said the Centre is responsible for shattering the trust of people by taking decisions like August 5, 2019 (scrapping of Article 370).

PULWAMA — Waheed-ur-Rehman Para, People's Democratic Party (PDP) leader and candidate for the upcoming Assembly elections in the Pulwama constituency, drew thousands of supporters to a campaign rally in Arihal village on Thursday.

The event saw a lively display of support, with chants of encouragement and women singing traditional folk songs, showering Waheed Para with candies as a token of their affection.

In his address, Para positioned himself as the "lone voice" advocating for the real issues faced by the people of Pulwama. He pledged to highlight the plight of political prisoners, particularly the youth, and to address the rampant unemployment and other challenges hindering a better quality of life for the current generation.

“If elected as an MLA, I will continue to listen to the people's issues by visiting village after village," Para said, pointing to his commitment to remaining accessible and responsive to the public's concerns.

The overwhelming turnout and spirited atmosphere at the rally signalled significant local support for Para, as he vowed to prioritize speaking of the people's issues and needs in his campaign.

PULWAMA — An air-conditioned reading hall, Bait-ul-Ilm, aimed at providing free study space for students preparing for competitive exams, was inaugurated on Saturday in Pulwama in the presence of prominent figures and local citizens.

Located opposite the old District Court Complex in Pulwama, the facility offers a range of amenities, including separate rest-rooms for male and female students, Wi-Fi, and a collection of books for various competitive exams such as NEET UG, NEET PG, JEE, NTA NET, JKSSB, and NDA. The reading hall is open 24/7 and welcomes students from the 10th standard onwards.

Omar Farooq, a resident of Pathan village in Pulwama and the philanthropist behind the initiative, said he was inspired to provide such a space for students and job-seekers in his hometown after witnessing similar facilities outside Jammu and Kashmir.

“There are no charges at all for using the facility. I wanted to create a conducive environment for the youth in my hometown to prepare for competitive exams,” Omar said.

The reading hall offers individual study stations, which can be reserved on a first-come, first-served basis. The initiative has been widely praised by local residents and students alike, who see it as a much-needed resource in the area.

PULWAMA — The village of Inder in southern Kashmir's Pulwama district came alive with traditional fervour on Wednesday as thousands of devotees gathered to honour the memory of revered Sufi poet and saint Soch Kral. The annual festival, held at the poet's shrine, drew men and women, young and old, who travelled from across southern Kashmir to pay tribute to the saint.

The day was marked by deep reverence and an outpouring of love for the poet, whose verses continue to resonate with the people of Kashmir. Devotees were seen reciting Soch Kral's poetry and recounting stories of his life, a testament to the enduring legacy of the Sufi saint.

On a stage set up in a nearby park, artists performed Soch Kral’s poetry, accompanied by traditional Kashmiri musical instruments. The performances, infused with the mystical spirit of Sufi traditions, moved many in the crowd, bringing them closer to the spiritual essence of the poet’s work.

"The words of Soch Kral are not just poetry; they are a guide to living a meaningful life," said Ghulam Hassan, a resident of Ugergund village. "His teachings on love, peace, and devotion have touched the hearts of generations."

For many, the annual visit to the shrine is an opportunity to connect with the Sufi traditions that are a cornerstone of Kashmiri culture. Visitors shared their personal reflections on the poet's impact on their lives.

"Coming here every year is a reminder of our roots and our rich cultural heritage," said Farooq Ahmad, a visitor from Shopian. "Soch Kral's poetry has a way of speaking to the soul, and being here, surrounded by his words and the melodies of our traditional music, is a deeply spiritual experience."

The festival also served as a moment of togetherness, as people from different walks of life mingled and shared their admiration for the poet.

"Today, we celebrate not just a poet, but a philosophy of life that has shaped our collective identity," said Mohammad Yasin, a scholar who attended the event. "Soch Kral's message of universal love and compassion is more relevant today than ever.

SRINAGAR — A Tiranga rally was on Wednesday organized in Jammu and Kashmir's Baramulla district during which a 2.5-kilometre-long national flag was hoisted, which is a first-of-its-kind event.

The 'Tiranga Rally', part of the government's 'Har Ghar Tiranga' campaign, is encouraging people to bring the flag home and hoist it as a symbol of India's independence.

Thousands of people took part in this massive rally, which created a record by waving a 2.5-kilometre-long flag in Rafiabad area of ​​Baramulla.

People from all walks of life, including students, enthusiastically participated in this massive Tiranga rally.

A local official said this new enthusiasm is especially evident among school-going students, who proudly sing the national anthem during these rallies. He said the change is amazing, as the national flag now adorns every market, rooftop, school, college and office in Jammu and Kashmir. It is a symbol of national pride and a collective embrace of unity.

Speaking on the occasion, DC Baramulla Minga Sherpa said that this change is a sign of coming out of the atmosphere of fear and hesitation in the past, as the people of Kashmir are now openly expressing their patriotism through national symbols. He said that hoisting the national flag and singing the national anthem is now done with love and respect in Kashmir.

He said that though this was something that people were not accepting initially, now everyone is wholeheartedly accepting this change and appreciates the playing of the national anthem.

One of the locals said that hoisting flags or carrying the national flag and playing the national anthem has now become a common practice everywhere in the Union Territory, be it schools, colleges or private functions.

SHOPIAN — District Police Shopian, in collaboration with The Kashmir Pulse news portal, organized a programme on cyber awareness at Government Degree College Shopian on Saturday. The program held in the college auditorium aimed at empowering individuals against cyber threats.

Among the key resource persons included chief guest SSP Shopian Ms Tanushree, IPS; ASP Shopian Showkat Rafiq Wani; DSP Headquarter Shopian; DSP DR; SHO Shopian; and State Taxation Officer Sarfaraz Ahmad. Sakeena Jabeen, the host and anchor, conducted the program proceedings.

The event drew a large audience, including school students, teacher faculties, and respected citizens. A cultural program presented by students entertained the audience and kept them engaged.

SSP Shopian Ms Tanushree reaffirmed the police's commitment to tackling emerging cybercrime threats, urging people, especially women, to approach the police with their concerns without any hesitation. She also said that people should not fall for lucrative offers online as these turn out to be scammers' tactics to victimize vulnerable netizens.

Showkat Rafiq Wani shared his experiences in dealing with cybercrime, recounting many cases and the tedious task of tracing cyber criminals to face the law. In a case of sextortion in Pulwama, he said, a victim lost over 55 lakh rupees, which the police managed to recover under his charge but he rued the poor knowledge people have about cyber criminals.

Sarfaraz Ahmad delivered an engaging and humorous presentation on emerging cyber threats and preventive measures, captivating the audience. His immersive style of addressing the audience captured their attention and was applauded for his efforts.

The program concluded with the presentation of mementoes and certificates to guests and participants, followed by a vote of thanks from Sakeena Jabeen.

It is pertinent to mention here that The Kashmir Pulse, known for organizing literary and awareness programs, has collaborated with government departments, including J&K Police and District Administration Pulwama, to educate the public on various issues.

Recently, it published an anthology titled "Perplexed Thoughts - Tales from Kashmir," featuring contributions from local writers and poets.

PULWAMA — The District Police in Pulwama on Thursday inaugurated a Cyber Crime Cell Unit at the District Police Lines, addressing a growing wave of cyber crimes in the area. Senior Superintendent of Police Pulwama, P.D. Nitya, led the media briefing, revealing that over 30 cases have been reported to the newly established unit within its first days of operation.

Pertinently, the Cyber Crime Cell Unit was officially inaugurated by the Director General of Police (DGP) on June 8, during a public grievance meeting.

During the interaction, SSP Nitya highlighted the range of cyber crimes affecting the area, including online fraud, impersonation, cyberbullying, and hate crimes on social media. She emphasized the importance of reporting such incidents, urging people to come forward without hesitation.

"People should not feel shy or fearful to report cyber crimes. There has been an increasing trend in these offences, and we have a resourceful team dedicated to solving these cases," Nitya said. She also noted the unit’s success in recovering thousands of rupees for victims of online fraud in just one week.

In addition to tackling cyber crimes, the unit also addresses complaints regarding lost mobile phones, further expanding its utility to the public. SSP Nitya assured that the team is well-equipped and committed to providing assistance and resolution to all reported cases.

People can report cyber crimes via email at cybercrime-pulwama@jkpolice.gov.in or by calling 9541943103.