The Kashmir Pulse

RAJOURI — In a nocturnal attack by militants on a post, an army soldier suffered injuries in the Rajouri district of Jammu region.

Official sources said that militants attacked a post (Naka) set up near the house of a Shaurya Chakra awardee Parshotam Kumar at the Gunda Khawas village in Rajouri at around 3 am on Monday.

One soldier sustained bullet injuries in the attack while a cow also died, they said, adding that this Naka had been set up after receiving inputs about the movement of militants.

Pertinently, Purshotam Kumar was recently awarded Shaurya Chakra by the President for helping to kill a militant in the Kalakote area.

Official sources added that shortly after the attack, a massive search operation was launched which was under progress till the filing of this report.

RAJOURI — A minor lost her life after being hit by a stone in Dandote area of Rajouri district on Saturday.

An official quoted by a local news agency said that a stone slipped from the hilltop of the sliding area at Dandote and hit a pedestrian who died on the spot.

The victim has been identified as Shazia Akhter (13), daughter of Mohammad Shafi, a resident of Dandote in Tehsil Koteranka and died on the spot.

Meanwhile, police have taken cognizance of the incident and started an investigation into this connection.

SRINAGAR — The Election Commission of India (ECI) announced on Tuesday a significant revision to the election schedule for the Anantnag-Rajouri parliamentary seat, moving the polling day from May 7 to May 25.

The decision came in response to numerous representations from various political parties in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. These representations cited logistical challenges, communication barriers, and natural connectivity hindrances that were impeding fair campaigning opportunities for contesting candidates in the constituency.

According to an official order from the Election Commission of India, cited by a local news agency, the Commission considered reports from the UT administration and assessed the ground situation prevailing in the constituency before making the decision.

"The Commission, after considering the report from UT administration as well as analyzing the ground situation prevailing in the said constituency, has decided under Section 56 of Representation of People Act, 1951, to revise the date of the poll in the said Parliamentary Constituency in respect of ongoing General Election to Lok Sabha, 2024, for Anantnag-Rajouri parliamentary seat from 07 May to 25 May," the order stated.

This move aims to ensure a more equitable electoral process and address the challenges faced by candidates in effectively reaching out to voters in the Anantnag-Rajouri parliamentary constituency.

SRINAGAR — A man succumbed to injuries after he was attacked by militants in Rajouri district of Jammu division on Monday evening.

Reliable sources, quoted by a local news agency, said that the militants fired upon a man, identified as Mohammad Razaq, son of Mohammad Akbar and a resident of Kunda Tope, Shahdhara Sharief, in Rajouri district.

They said that the man was shifted to a local hospital in injured condition where he succumbed to his injuries.

Meanwhile, the area has been cordoned off by security forces to nab the attackers.

SRINAGAR — A man was injured after being attacked by suspected militants in Rajouri district of Jammu division on Monday evening.

Reliable sources, quoted by a local news agency, said that militants fired upon a man, identified as Mohammad Razaq, son of Mohammad Akbar and a resident of Kunda Tope, Shahdhara Sharief, in Rajouri district.

They said that Mohammad Razaq was shifted to a local hospital in injured condition. Meanwhile, the area has been cordoned off to nab the attackers.

RAJOURI — Jammu and Kashmir Police have registered a case regarding an edited video showing people raising objectionable slogans during a procession in Kalakote Rajouri.

"A video has been circulated on social media in which some objectionable slogans are heard during a procession in Kalakote area of Rajouri," reads a statement quoted by a local news agency.

It added, "During initial analysis, it has been found that the video is edited / unoriginal in nature with audio of slogan added to create unrest."

"Police have viewed it seriously and a case FIR No. 21/2024 has been registered at Police Station Kalakote under relevant sections of law," the statement reads.

"People are requested not to fall prey to rumours and to avoid sharing videos' which shall attract strict legal action," the statement further reads.

RAJOURI — A man hanged himself to death in Kandi area of Rajouri district on Thursday afternoon.

An official quoted by a local news agency said that a 40-year-old man from Barsala had hanged himself in a forest near his house.

He said that the reason behind taking the extreme step by the person was not known immediately.

Meanwhile, the local police have taken cognizance of the suicide and started an investigation.

RAJOURI — An unfortunate incident occurred in Budhal area of Rajouri district on Thursday evening, resulting in the loss of a young life as a six-year-old boy was struck by an army vehicle, according to officials.

Reliable sources quoted by a local news agency said that the accident unfolded on Palma road when a vehicle belonging to 60RR, identified as Casper, was en route to Budhal. Suddenly, the vehicle collided with a six-year-old boy, the son of Mohammad Azam, who serves in the CRPF.

Despite immediate efforts to rush him to the hospital, the child succumbed to his injuries, sources confirmed.

In response to the tragic incident, local authorities have initiated an investigation into the matter, with law enforcement agencies taking cognizance of the situation.

SRINAGAR — The Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party has declared its candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, vying for seats in the Anantnag-Rajouri and Srinagar segments.

In a press conference held in Srinagar, Dilawar Mir, Chairman of the Parliamentary Affairs Committee, announced the party's decision.

Mir stated that Zaffar Iqbal Manhas will contest from the Anantnag-Rajouri constituency, while Mohammad Ashraf Mir will represent the party in Srinagar.

This move marks the Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party as the first political entity to announce its candidate for the Srinagar seat.

This announcement comes after the National Conference named Mian Altaf and DPAP declared Ghulam Nabi Azad as their respective candidates for the Anantnag-Rajouri seat.

SRINAGAR — Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and DPAP chairman Ghulam Nabi Azad will contest the Lok Sabha polls from Anantnag-Rajouri constituency.

The announcement was made by party treasurer Taj Mohiuddin during a press conference in Srinagar. He said that the party has decided to field Ghulam Nabi Azad as its Lok Sabha candidate from Anantnag-Rajouri seat.

On Monday, the National Conference announced that former minister and ex-legislator from Kangan, Mian Altaf will be the party candidate from this constituency.

SRINAGAR — In a noteworthy decision, the National Conference (NC) under the leadership of Dr Farooq Abdullah has declared Mian Altaf Ahmad as its candidate for the Anantnag-Rajouri Lok Sabha constituency, covering Anantnag, Kulgam, Rajouri and other areas.

This declaration marks the initiation of the electoral battle in the region, with Mian Altaf Ahmad becoming the first official candidate named by any political party for this pivotal constituency.

Omar Abdullah, the Vice President of the National Conference (NC), asserted that Mian Altaf is the ideal candidate for the Anantnag-Rajouri constituency, emphasizing his commitment to a campaign devoid of religious or other divisive lines.

Abdullah highlighted Mian Altaf's extensive popularity across various societal segments, expressing confidence in his ability to garner substantial support from the electorate.

The announcement took place in the presence of several key party figures including Party General Secretary Ali Mohammad Sagar, State Secretary Chowdhary Ramzan, Provincial President Nasir Aslam Wani, and Chief Spokesperson Tanvir Sadiq.

Mian Altaf Ahmad, a stalwart Gujjar leader and former Minister, brings with him a legacy deeply rooted in Kashmiri politics.

Hailing from the influential Mian family, Ahmad has served as a Minister and Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Kangan, Kashmir, since 1987, initially contesting under the banner of the Indian National Congress (INC) before joining the NC.

The political lineage of the Mian family traces back to Mian Nizamuddin, followed by his son Mian Bashir Ahmad, both of whom held vital positions as MLAs and Ministers.

The family's stronghold over Kangan is evident from their consecutive victories in nine Assembly elections since 1962. Mian Nizamuddin secured the seat in 1962, succeeded by his son Mian Bashir Ahmad, who won three subsequent elections. Mian Altaf Ahmad continued this legacy by triumphing in the Assembly elections of 1987, 1996, 2002, 2008, and 2014 from the same constituency.

The NC's decision to nominate Mian Altaf Ahmad for the Anantnag-Rajouri Parliamentary seat reflects a unified stance within the party.

A spokesperson for the NC expressed confidence in Ahmad's candidacy, emphasizing the party's anticipation of a significant voter turnout and a resounding mandate. The spokesperson further underscored the importance of reclaiming Jammu and Kashmir's identity, “urging voters to thwart any attempts aimed at undermining the region's integrity.”

The Mian family's widespread influence extends beyond Kangan, resonating strongly in Jammu's Rajouri and Poonch districts, now integral parts of the south Kashmir Lok Sabha constituency. Their enduring political legacy and grassroots support position Mian Altaf Ahmad as a formidable contender in the upcoming elections, poised to navigate the complex socio-political landscape of south Kashmir.

SRINAGAR — With the Lok Sabha elections scheduled from April 19 to June 1, 2024, district administrations in Kashmir are taking proactive measures to ensure a smooth electoral process. Bandipora and Rajouri districts have issued directives concerning the deposit of weapons and the use of official vehicles during the election period.

In Bandipora, the District Administration has mandated that all civilians and serving or retired forces personnel possessing arms and ammunition on valid licenses must deposit them at the respective police stations within seven days. The move aims to enhance security and prevent potential misuse of weapons during the electoral process.

Additionally, printing presses in the district are required to clearly indicate the names and addresses of the printer and publisher on all election-related material, as directed by District Election Officer Shakeel-ul-Rehman.

Meanwhile, Rajouri District Magistrate Om Parkash Bhagat has issued a similar directive, urging civilians with licensed weapons to deposit them at the nearest police station within a week. This measure is aligned with efforts to maintain law and order and ensure transparent elections.

Additionally, printing presses in Rajouri have been instructed to comply with guidelines set forth by the Election Commission of India, ensuring transparency in election-related communications.

Furthermore, in Bandipora, the District Magistrate has imposed a total ban on the use of official vehicles by political parties, candidates, or any individuals associated with election campaigns. This prohibition, effective immediately, aims to prevent the misuse of government resources for electoral purposes and promote fairness in the electoral process.

Authorities in both districts have emphasized strict adherence to these directives to uphold the integrity of the electoral process. Senior officials have been tasked with overseeing the implementation of these measures to ensure compliance.

RAJOURI — Three individuals sustained critical injuries following a lightning strike in Shahdara Sharief area of Rajouri district on Tuesday afternoon.

According to an official quoted by a local news agency, the victims have been identified as Ghulam Ahmad (48), Naureen Akhtar (42), and Rozia Akhtar (2).

The incident occurred during the afternoon, causing severe injuries to the three individuals. They were immediately transported to the Primary Health Center (PHC) Thanamandi for initial medical assistance.

Subsequently, due to the severity of their injuries, the victims were referred to the Government Medical College (GMC) Rajouri for specialized treatment.

Further details regarding the condition of the injured individuals and the circumstances surrounding the lightning strike were not immediately available.

RAJOURI — An army porter lost his life in a mine blast along the Line of Control (LoC) in Rajouri sector, according to an official statement on Wednesday evening.

The deceased, identified as Rakesh Kumar from Sarya Jhangad, fell victim to the explosion in Nowshera, as confirmed by an official quoted by a local news agency.

The official further informed that the mortal remains of the deceased have been recovered from the scene and are being transported for necessary medico-legal procedures. Subsequently, they will be handed over to the family for final rites.

RAJOURI — A vehicle mishap near the Tarala area of Rajouri district has resulted in injuries to at least seven passengers, according to reports reaching here.

The incident occurred when a vehicle travelling from Kandi to Rajouri veered off the road and collided with a rock near Kanchi Mohre in Tarala. As a result of the collision, seven passengers sustained injuries, and the vehicle suffered partial damage.

Emergency response teams swiftly responded to the scene, and all injured passengers were transported to GMC Rajouri for medical treatment.

Details surrounding the circumstances of the mishap and the extent of injuries sustained by the passengers remain forthcoming as authorities continue their investigation.

NEW DELHI — The National Investigation Agency (NIA) intensified its efforts to dismantle the militancy network in Jammu and Kashmir by charging five individuals, including three fugitive handlers based in Pakistan, in connection with the January 2023 Rajouri attacks.

In a statement issued on Monday, the agency identified the case as RC-01 & 02/2023/NIA/JMU, which revolves around a brutal assault on civilians in village Dhangri on January 1, 2023, followed by an IED blast the next day. The attacks claimed the lives of seven people, including two children, and left numerous others severely injured.

According to the NIA, among the charged individuals are three handlers of the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) outfit: Saifullah alias Sajid Jutt alias Ali alias Habibullah alias Numan alias Langda alias Noumi, Mohd Qasim, and Abu Qatal alias Qatal Sindhi. While Abu Qatal and Sajit Jutt are Pakistani nationals, Qasim had crossed into Pakistan around 2002 and joined LeT's ranks there.

"The trio orchestrated the recruitment and dispatch of LeT terrorists from Pakistan to target innocent civilians, particularly from the minority community in Jammu & Kashmir, as well as security personnel. The attacks were carried out under their directives," the statement affirmed.

It further detailed that Saifullah, currently a senior LeT commander, masterminded the conspiracy from Pakistan, with Qasim serving as his right-hand man. Abu Qatal, who had been active in the Poonch-Rajouri range since 2002-03, collaborated with other militants.

Additionally, the NIA charged Nisar Ahmed alias Haji Nisar and Mushtaq Hussain alias Chacha, both overground workers (OGWs) of LeT and residents of Mohra, Gursai, Tehsil Mendhar, District Poonch. The duo was apprehended during the investigation for providing logistical support to the militants, including food, shelter, and destroying evidence.

"Nisar had also received arms, ammunition, and cash from the Pakistan-based handlers for the terrorists. He had been in contact with Abu Qatal even after the latter's return to Pakistan," the statement revealed.

The two adult accused and the Pakistan-based handlers face charges under the UA(P) Act and various sections of the IPC. The case against the apprehended juvenile will be presented to the Juvenile Justice Board in Rajouri.

JAMMU — A 51-year-old man, identified as Sunil Kumar and hailing from Siot in Rajouri, was found deceased inside a bus at the Jammu bus stand on Wednesday evening.

According to an official quoted by a local news agency, Kumar was found lifeless upon arrival at the Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu casualty ward.

The deceased was reportedly found in a bus that had travelled from Rajouri to Jammu.

Authorities have transferred the body to the mortuary room for postmortem examination, as investigations into the circumstances surrounding Kumar's death have been initiated.

Further details regarding the incident are anticipated as authorities delve deeper into the matter.

SRINAGAR — Two separate incidents have rocked the Kashmir region, with a man succumbing to suffocation from a gas heater in Kulgam's Pahloo area and a woman found dead in Magam, Budgam district.

In Kulgam, Karamat Hussain Choudary, hailing from Nowshera Rajouri, was found deceased in his accommodation in Pahloo. According to officials, it is believed that Choudary's death was caused by suffocation resulting from a malfunctioning gas heater in his room.

A police team has been dispatched to the scene to ascertain the facts surrounding the tragedy.

Meanwhile, in Budgam's Magam area, locals made a grim discovery of a deceased woman. Upon receiving the report, local authorities were alerted, and a police team promptly arrived at the scene to recover the body.

The identity of the woman has not yet been disclosed, and police have initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding her untimely demise.

SRINAGAR — Former Chief Minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah on Wednesday alleged that he was denied permission to visit Rajouri for a party function.

Authorities suspended internet service and imposed restrictions on the assembly of people after tension between Gujjar and Paharis.

Gujjars are up in arms after the Parliament gave nod to the grant of Scheduled Tribe status to the Pahari community in Jammu and Kashmir. The Government claimed that the action won’t affect the reservation status of Gujjars.

Omar Abdullah said it is the responsibility of the government to take the Gujjar community into confidence. He said he was intending to visit Rajouri but was denied permission.

He added that the gates of his house were locked by the police and he was escorted to his office like a “criminal” to stop him from visiting the Sunderbani area of Rajouri district.

“And as the elections draw closer, I am sure such curbs will witness a spurt,” he told reporters at the party headquarters here.

He said only those people are allowed to carry out political activities who praise BJP and speak their language.

SRINAGAR — Tragedy struck Rajouri district in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday evening when an unknown driver lost control of their vehicle and struck two pedestrians, killing one and critically injuring another.

The incident occurred on the road between Nowshera and Sunderbani, when the unidentified vehicle swerved off course and hit the two individuals.

According to an official source, the deceased was identified as Raj Kumari, wife of Ghan Sham, resident of Tala Dhambri, Nowshera. The injured person, Vaishno Devi, wife of the late Kamal Das, resident of Bhakar Siot, is currently undergoing treatment at a local hospital.

Confirming the incident, a police spokesperson stated that a thorough investigation is underway. The authorities are working to identify the driver and understand the cause of the accident.