The Kashmir Pulse

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).

SRINAGAR — Two District Development Council (DDC) members associated with the National Conference (NC) on Wednesday resigned from the party and extended their support to former NC leader and an independent candidate from Shopian, Shabir Ahmad Kullay.

As per the reports from the news agency KNO, the two DDC members, who resigned from NC include Abdul Hamid Sheikh (DDC Shopian) and Safiya Riyaz (DDC Ramnagari).

Sheikh said that he has resigned from the party as the leadership has given mandate to a person, who is not able to secure the seat. He said Shabir Ahmad Kullay was promised a mandate before parliamentary elections following which he worked hard and NC managed to get the lead on the seat then.

Sheikh added that the party has failed to keep their promise to Kullay and thus he is parting ways with the party and extending support to him.

Also, Safia Riyaz said that she is resigning from the party as they have duped Shabir Kullay thrice so far. She said that whatever NC has mentioned in its manifesto is fraud and nothing is being implemented on the ground. “I am resigning from the party and thus extend my support to Shabir Kullay,” she said.

SHOPIAN — District President PDP and former MLA Wachi, Aijaz Ahmad Mir on Friday quit the party and is likely to contest the upcoming J&K Assembly elections as an independent candidate.

While talking to the news agency KNO, Mir, who is also a DDC member, said that he was shocked to know about party mandate being given to someone else.

He said that he was campaigning for the party for the last several months and even when he came to know about the mandate, he was interacting with workers in one of the villages of his constituency.

“If party had such intention, they should have at least contacted me and made any decision after taking me into confidence. Snatching mandate in such a way is humiliation and a man can bear anything but not humiliation, so I have decided to quit the party,” he said.

On being asked about his future plans, he said that he would fight elections but once again, he will sit with his workers and decide things after taking them into confidence.

“Mandates aren't decided by parties, but by people and I am hopeful that people give their mandate by voting in my favour,” he added.

It is likely that Aijaz Mir will fight elections as an independent candidate now. Notably, PDP has appointed Ghulam Mohiuddin Wani as the constituency in-charge for Wachi.

NEW DELHI — The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Friday attached the property of an overground worker (OGW) of Hizbul Mujahideen in the case of the targeted killing of a Sarpanch in Kulgam district.

In a statement issued to the news agency KNO, a spokesperson said that the residential house of Nasir Rashid Bhat located in Tengpora village of Shopian has been attached under Section 33 (1) of UA(P) Act, 1947, on orders of the NIA Special Judge, Jammu.

The statement reads that the accused, along with other members of the banned HM organisation, was involved in the killing of a Sarpanch on March 11, 2022 with the aim of spreading fear among the people.

“Investigations by NIA, which took over the case from Kulgam Police, revealed that the targeted killing was part of a larger HM conspiracy to disturb India’s integrity, sovereignty and security through violent attacks and killings,” it reads.

It added the NIA further found that Bhat had provided his Alto car to the militants and was also involved in conducting a recce of the Sarpanch’s house and in informing the Hizb militants about the target’s presence.

“He used his car to take the assailants to the area around the Sarpanch’s house on the day of the attack. NIA has chargesheeted six accused in the case and the trial against them is continuing,” it added.

SRINAGAR — Two teachers lost their lives in a road accident in southern Kashmir's Shopian district on Friday.

An official told the news agency KNO that an accident took place at Largam Shopian when a vehicle hit a motorcyclist.

In the accident, a teacher died on the spot while another was injured. However, the injured was shifted to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

The duo has been identified as Riyaz Ahmad Dar, son of Mohammad Ibrahim Dar of Kundalan Shopian and Sajad Ahmad Shah, son of Ghulam Mohammad Shah of Largam Shopian.

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

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.

SRINAGAR — A trekker slipped to death and two others were injured while taking pictures along the Mughal road in Dubjan area of southern Kashmir's Shopian district on Thursday, officials said.

An official told the news agency KNO that three trekkers were injured after they slipped while taking pictures along the Mughal road.

He said that one among them succumbed to his injuries, while the injured were shifted to District Hospital Shopian for treatment.

Meanwhile, the deceased has been identified as Murtaza Ahmad, a resident of Shopian.

SRINAGAR — Properties worth crores of rupees belonging to two notorious drug peddlers were seized in southern Kashmir’s Shopian district, police said on Wednesday.

In a statement issued to the local news agency CNS, police stated, “Continuing its unwavering efforts to eradicate the menace of drugs from the society, police attached properties worth crores of two notorious drug peddlers acquired from illicit trafficking of narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances in Shopian.”

Police in Shopian under the supervision of SSP Shopian Tanushree attached illegally acquired properties of two notorious drug peddlers namely Mohammad Yaqoob Shah, son of Mohammad Sultan Shah and Aadil Hussain Shah, son of Mohammad Yaqoob Shah, both residents of Rawalpora Shopian, the statement said.

“The duo was involved in case FIR No. 69/2024 under section 8/21-29 NDPS Act of Police Station Shopian. The attached properties include land measuring two kanals under Survey No. 427 min at Palpora Shopian, land measuring one kanal 18 marlas under Survey No. 133 at village Chowdhrigund Shopian and shop constructed over Aabadi Deh land measuring (240 sq.ft) falling under Survey No. 532 min at village Hergam, district Shopian,” the police further said in the statement.

It went on to state that the action was taken under sections 68-E read with 68-F (1) of NDPS Act of 1985 and is linked with case FIR No. 69/2024 under section 8/21-29 NDPS Act of Police Station Shopian.

The property was identified as illegally acquired property during the course of investigation conducted by Shopian Police. The property was prima facie acquired from illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances by the drug peddler, police said.

“This operation reaffirms the commitment of police to combat the drug menace,” they added.

SRINAGAR — A policeman was injured after he was assaulted by some persons during the execution of a court order in southern Kashmir's Shopian district on Monday, officials said.

An official told the news agency KNO that a police team went to the house of Manzoor Ahmad Khanday, a resident of Khurmpora village, to execute a court warrant. "However, they were attacked by some persons, resulting in injuries to a cop."

He said that the injured cop was shifted to District Hospital Shopian, where from he was referred to SKIMS Soura. The cop has been identified as Aijaz Ahmad.

Police have registered a case in this regard and assailants are being identified, the official said.

SRINAGAR — Two militant associates were held by a joint team of security forces in southern Kashmir's Shopian district on Saturday.

A top police officer quoted by a local news agency said that during a joint Naka checking by Shopian Police along with 44 RR and 14th battalion CRPF at Malik Chak Crossing, two militant associates (overground workers) were arrested.

They have been identified as Suhaib Iqbal Malik son of Mohammad Iqbal Malik and Tufail Yousuf Malik son of Mohammad Yousuf Malik, both of whom are residents of Baba Mohalla in Shopian.

They were held with incriminating material and in this regard, a case FIR No. 14/2024 under relevant sections of UAPA has been registered in Police Station Heerpora and the investigation is underway, according to the officer.

SRINAGAR — A 40-year-old woman was critically injured after falling from a three-storey house in the southern region of Kashmir's Shopian district on Wednesday evening.

An official quoted by a local news agency said that a woman in her forties, identified as Maqsooda Jan, wife of Ghulam Nabi Ganai from Chitragam Kalan, suffered critical injuries after falling from a three-storey house.

She was promptly shifted to a nearby hospital, where doctors referred her to GMC Anantnag for advanced treatment.

Meanwhile, as per the family sources, the condition of the woman is said to be stable.

SRINAGAR — A series of leopard strikes in separate locations within southern Kashmir's Shopian district on Friday evening resulted in injuries to four individuals, including a minor.

According to an official's statement quoted by a local news agency, the incidents occurred in the areas of Daramdora Keegam and Mazhama, where four individuals fell victim to the leopard attacks.

The injured individuals have been identified as Tariq Ahmad Lone, son of Mohammad Ahsan Lone; Saadat Nazir (14), son of Nazir Ahmad Wani; Nazir Ahmad Wani, residents of Daramdora Keegam; and Sahil Hassan Rather, son of Ghulam Hassan Rather, a resident of Mazhama.

Efforts to aid the injured were promptly initiated, with all victims evacuated to District Hospital Pulwama for immediate medical attention. Subsequently, they were referred to SMHS Hospital Srinagar for specialized treatment.

Law enforcement authorities have acknowledged the incidents and have initiated an investigation into the matter.

SRINAGAR — After giving a slip to the police for many years, two absconders were arrested in southern Kashmir’s Shopian district.

As per the news agency CNS, Shopian Police said that they arrested two absconders — Mohammad Yousuf Chohan son of Mohammad Sie Chohan, a resident of Reshnagri Arda Shopian and Tariq Ahmed Malik son of Nazir Ahmed Malik, a resident of Balpora Shopian.

“Warrant of arrest was issued by the Hon’ble Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate Shopian and Judicial Magistrate 1st Class Shopian against them respectively,” police said.

They said Chohan and Malik had evaded their arrests since 2014 and 2003 and were involved in case FIR No. 222/2014 under Section 379 RPC and in case FIR No. 55/2003 under sections 452, 354, 427, 323 of RPC, respectively.

“The duo was produced before the Hon’ble Court of Chief Judicial Magistrate Shopian and Judicial Magistrate 1st Class Shopian on 01.04.2024,” police said.

Police are implementing rigorous measures to ensure that all individuals, who evade their arrests, are apprehended and held accountable for their criminal actions. "This dedication to combating crime will remain steadfast," they added.

SRINAGAR — Two individuals have been apprehended by Jammu and Kashmir Police on charges of defrauding the general public in Shopian district.

According to a statement from a police spokesperson issued in this connection, authorities at Police Post Keegam received a complaint alleging that certain individuals within their jurisdiction were deceiving the public. These individuals purportedly posed as close associates of the police, soliciting money from families in exchange for securing the release of their relatives held under legal preventive detentions.

Acting on the complaint, authorities arrested two suspects identified as Abdul Majeed Lone, son of Ghulam Mohammad Lone from Kanipora Balapora, and Mohammad Iqbal Paul, son of Ali Mohammad Paul from Shirmal Keegam.

A case, FIR No. 43/2024 under sections 420, 506, and 170 IPC, was registered at Police Station Shopian, with investigations initiated.

The statement also includes an appeal to the general public, urging them to remain vigilant and not to fall victim to such fraudulent schemes.

SRINAGAR — A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel allegedly committed suicide by shooting himself with his service rifle in Reshipora area of southern Kashmir's Shopian district on Wednesday, officials said.

The officials, quoted by a local news agency, said that the CRPF jawan posted in 178BN CRPF in Reshipora Shopain shot himself dead with his service rifle this morning.

They said that the body has been shifted to the hospital for autopsy, while police have taken cognisance of the matter.

SRINAGAR — The Jammu and Kashmir People's Democratic Party (JKPDP) president and former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti has written a letter to Ashwini Vaishnaw, the Union Railways Minister, addressing a crucial matter concerning land acquisition for a railway project in the Reshi Pora, Zainpora area of Shopian district in Jammu & Kashmir.

In her letter, Mufti highlighted the significant impact of the proposed land acquisition on the livelihoods of individuals in the affected area. The land in question is primarily used for apple cultivation, which serves as the main source of income and survival for the residents.

Mufti expressed concern over the potential adverse effects of the land acquisition, emphasizing that displacement from their ancestral lands would cause immense hardship to the affected families, who rely on horticulture, agriculture, and allied activities for their livelihoods.

She urged the Indian Railways to consider altering the alignment of the railway line to minimize the impact on the affected communities. Mufti suggested that a slight change in the route could mitigate the adverse effects on the livelihoods of these individuals significantly.

In the event that altering the alignment is not feasible, Mufti stressed the importance of providing suitable and adequate compensation to those affected by the land acquisition. She emphasized the need for fair compensation packages to ensure that the affected families can sustain themselves and rebuild their lives elsewhere.

Acknowledging the significance of infrastructure development projects like railways in enhancing connectivity and promoting economic growth, Mufti underscored the importance of prioritizing the welfare and rights of the communities directly impacted by such projects.

She requested urgent attention and intervention from Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw to address the concerns raised by the affected people, seeking a mutually beneficial solution.

SRINAGAR — A series of road accidents in southern Kashmir's Shopian, Anantnag, and Kulgam districts resulted in the loss of lives on Friday, adding to the region's sombre toll of road mishaps.

In Shopian's Keegam area, tragedy struck as an unknown Tata Mobile collided with a motorcycle bearing registration number JK22B-5234.

The collision claimed the life of the motorcyclist, identified as Peerzada Feroz Ahmad, son of Ghulam Mustafa Shah, a resident of Babnad Tukroo in Shopian. The impact proved fatal, leading to Ahmad's immediate demise at the scene of the accident.

Meanwhile, in Pahalgam, a youth met a tragic end while two others sustained injuries following an Alto car's veering off the road near Ganeshpora bridge in Yanner Pahalgam.

The deceased was identified as Mudasir Ahmad Malik, son of Abdul Aziz Malik, a resident of Batkoot. The injured, Tariq Ahmad Malik and Mudasir Ahmad Rather, both residents of Batkoot, received medical attention for their injuries.

Adding to the grim tally, a young girl lost her life in a separate incident in Qazigund area of Kulgam district.

Struck by an unknown vehicle, the girl, identified as Mehak Jan, daughter of Abdul Rashid Khan, a resident of Kelam Devsar, tragically succumbed to her injuries at the scene.

Authorities have initiated investigations into each incident, seeking to unravel the circumstances leading to these tragic accidents.

KELLER — Acting on the directives of Deputy Commissioner Shopian, a market checking team led by Tehsildar Keller, Mr. Latafat, alongside Assistant Commissioner from the Food Safety Department, Mrs. Nighat, and Food Safety Officer Keller, Shafiq Ur Rehman, conducted rigorous inspections across various parts of the Keller area of southern Kashmir's Shopian district on Friday.

The initiative aimed to verify the adherence of essential commodities to government-approved rates and quality standards, ensuring an ample supply of consumables in the market.

Throughout the day, the market checking team, consisting of officials from the Police, FCS&CA, and Food Safety Department, meticulously examined establishments in different markets of Keller, including the bus stand market, focusing on businesses such as bakeries, confectioneries, groceries, vegetable and fruit vendors, and meat shops.

Inspectors scrutinized the hygiene conditions and assessed factors such as the Date of Manufacture and Use-by Date of products.

All traders, particularly those dealing in meat, vegetables, and fruits, were cautioned to maintain product quality. Shopkeepers were also reminded to avoid hoarding and overcharging customers.

In the course of the inspections, fines totalling Rs. 3500 were levied on non-compliant traders, and a significant quantity of spoiled vegetables and fruits were promptly discarded.

Tehsildar Keller emphasized the continuation of such drives to ensure fair pricing and availability of essential goods, discouraging black marketing practices. He instructed officials to clear footpaths and main roads of any encroachments to facilitate smooth movement.

Engaging with shopkeepers, Food Safety Officer Keller stressed the importance of prominently displaying rate lists and adhering to approved rates and quality standards. Non-compliance, he warned, would result in strict legal action.

SHOPIAN — District Magistrate of Shopian, Faz Lul Haseeb on Wednesday assured that the people’s voices will be heard and considered before any final decision is made regarding the proposed railway line in the district.

Speaking with the news agency KNO, the DM, who is also the Deputy Commissioner Shopian, said railway authorities had taken the marking process of the railway line in Zainapora area of the district where some locals have objected to it. He said people have various apprehensions and misconceptions in this regard which are being looked into.

“Before granting approval for the railway line, the administration will engage with residents to ensure their concerns are taken into account,” Haseeb said, adding that the revenue authorities have been instructed to prepare a detailed report in this regard.

The government's recent green signal for the final survey of five rail lines in Kashmir, including the Awantipora-Shopian route via Kulgam, has sparked protests among residents of Reshipora and Pahnoo areas in southern Kashmir's Shopian district. The locals fear that the construction of the railway line will lead to the displacement of hundreds of families, depriving them of their land and livelihoods.

The residents said many families rely on their orchards for livelihood, and the proposed railway project threatens their way of life. They urged authorities to either relocate the railway line or reconsider its construction, fearing the project would leave hundreds of families landless.

The locals appealed to higher authorities to address their grievances and ensure a fair resolution to the ongoing dispute over the proposed railway line.