The Kashmir Pulse

SRINAGAR — Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw on Wednesday said Rs 3,694 crore has been allocated this year for the ongoing railway projects in Jammu and Kashmir, while the “dream project” Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) is nearing completion and will be inaugurated soon.

Addressing media in Delhi, the minister, as per the news agency KNO said that new projects are also being taken up and detailed project reports (DPRs) are being prepared.

He said work on the Baramulla-Uri railway line, two other lines, developing four terminals from Budgam to Baramulla section, and four new stations, including Budgam, Jammu Tawi, Mata Vaishno Devi Katra and Udhampur station is underway.

Regarding USBRL, he said the project is almost complete with only a 17 km section (Tunnel T1) between Katra and Reasi under construction. The minister said that the Chenab bridge and railway line up to the Sangaldan section have already been made operational.

"Sangaldan to Reasi section has also been completed, and the commission of the Railway safety certificate has also been received. The project is a dream come true and will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi very soon,” he said.

JAMMU — After 14 days of hectic efforts to trace militants involved in the exchange of firing at Basantgarh area of Udhampur district, Jammu and Kashmir Police have arrested one suspect, who has allegedly provided logistic support to the militants.

The suspect has been identified as Javed, son of Muhammad Hussain of Loha Nathi area of Kathua.

Police have also released sketches of five militants involved in the militant activity.

In a statement issued to the news agency KNO, Police said that the force has gained some credible information on the movement of suspects and has zeroed in on some unscrupulous elements that have marked proclivities towards the act of crime.

"The police, in consequence, arrested Javed who has evidence stacked against him for providing logistic support to the terrorists," police claimed.

Since the encounter on April 27, the police of three districts including Udhampur, Kathua and Doda have laid cordon and search operations to track down militants and the operation is still going on.

During the encounter in Panara village, a VDG member Muhammad Shafi was killed.

UDHAMPUR — The search operation to track down the militants in Udhampur district entered the second day on Monday.

Joint forces including the army and police have cordoned off different parts of Chochru Gala Heights in Basantgarh area of Udhampur district where it is believed that militants responsible for the death of a Village Defense Guard (VDG) have been hiding.

Pertinently, yesterday, a Village Defence Guard of Jammu and Kashmir Police identified as M. Shareef lost his life in the firing incident between police and militants. The area since then has been cordoned off and an intensive search operation is being conducted by the combined forces.

Reliable sources told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that security forces believe that at least three militants are present in the dense forest area.

Six days before this incident, militants gunned down a government employee in Thanamandi Rajouri. Scores of suspects are already in lock-up and are being interrogated.

As per the police, the encounter on Sunday ensued when a team from the police along with VDGs, following an input about the presence of militants, was proceeding towards Chochru Gala Heights. The team came under fire and in the ensuing exchange of gunfire, one of the VDGs, accompanying police personnel, sustained critical injuries and later on, succumbed to his injuries.

SRINAGAR — With Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to address a public gathering in Udhampur on April 12, authorities have enacted measures to enhance security, including a ban on the flying of aviation devices in the district.

In an order quoted by a local news agency, District Magistrate Udhampur, Saloni Rai (IAS), cited the necessity for heightened security measures due to emerging threats involving drones being used as improvised explosive devices by anti-national elements.

The order, issued under Section 144 of the CrPC, prohibits the flying of any aviation devices, including Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), drones, and balloons, in District Udhampur. It comes into effect immediately and will remain in force until 5:00 pm on April 12, 2024.

"Various necessary arrangements are being undertaken by the administration as per SoP, for safe and secure conduct of the rally," the order states.

Senior Superintendent of Police Udhampur has been tasked with ensuring the implementation of the order.

DODA — As the campaigning for the Udhampur-Doda parliamentary constituency is in full swing with political parties trying to get people on their side, the people of Chenab Valley have some reservations towards the polling day which is falling on Friday, April 19.

While speaking to the news agency KNO, the people of Chenab valley expressed that they will be losing time on the polling as it falls on Friday.

“On Friday from 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm, all Muslims head towards Masjids (mosques) for prayers and they even close all of their business establishments. There will be very few people in polling stations during this time which will have an impact on the voting percentage as well,” said Bashir Ahmed, a shopkeeper.

The Udhampur-Doda Lok Sabha constituency comprises five districts of Jammu region including Kathua, Udhampur, Ramban, Kishtwar and Doda and out of these five districts, Doda, Ramban and Kishtwar (part of Chenab valley) are Muslim majority areas. This constituency is going to poll during the first phase on April 19, which falls on Friday.

Even the non-Muslims of the area feel that it will certainly have an impact on the voting percentage as most of the Muslims will not be able to vote during the prayer time.

“Muslims mostly go for prayers on Friday and polling stations are certainly going to give a deserted look. The polling should have been on any other day except Friday. As the date has already been notified, people will have to adjust accordingly,” said Rishi Kumar, a resident of Kishtwar district.

The Udhampur-Doda Lok Sabha seat is going to witness one of the biggest rivalries between Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) sitting Member of Parliament (MP) Dr Jitendra Singh (MoS in PMO) and former MP and Congress leader Choudhary Lal Singh.

Both the leaders will be eyeing to get maximum Muslim votes from Chenab valley and secure the win but apprehensions of less voting percentage due to polling day falling on Friday will have a negative impact.

SRINAGAR — Bhartiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from Udhampur Lok Sabha constituency, Dr Jitendra Singh, on Thursday filed his nomination papers.

The nomination ceremony, held at the District Deputy Commissioner's office in Kathua, witnessed the presence of prominent BJP leaders, including the State President, Ravinder Raina, and the renowned wrestler, “The Great Khali" alias Dalip Singh.

Dr Jitendra Singh, contesting for the third time from the Udhampur seat, received overwhelming support from party members and supporters as he embarked on a roadshow through Kalibari, Kathua, leading up to the nomination venue. The atmosphere was charged with excitement as BJP enthusiasts danced to the rhythmic beats of drums.

As per the news agency KNO, after completing the formalities of filing his nomination, Dr Jitendra Singh proceeded to address a spirited rally at Ramlila Maidan in Kathua city.

Dr Singh, who previously served as the Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office, has previously secured victory in the 2014 and 2019 Lok Sabha elections from the same constituency. Prior to filing his nomination, Dr Singh commenced the day with a morning puja, seeking divine blessings for a successful campaign ahead.

As the deadline for nominations approaches on March 27, political fervour intensifies in the region. The scrutiny of nomination papers is slated for March 28, followed by the withdrawal of candidature by March 30. The Lok Sabha elections for the Udhampur seat are scheduled for April 19.

Meanwhile, in a significant development, former BJP-PDP government minister Chaudhary Lal Singh, a two-time MP, has returned to the Congress fold after nearly a decade. Lal Singh has expressed his intent to contest from the Udhampur seat.

KATHUA — Dr Rakesh Minhas, the Returning Officer for Udhampur Parliamentary Constituency, announced the issuance of an election notification on Wednesday for the upcoming Parliamentary elections in the region.

Scheduled to occur during the initial phase of the electoral process, the elections in this constituency hold significant importance. The election notification delineates the timeline and procedures for potential candidates vying to contest in the parliamentary elections.

According to the notification, nomination papers can be submitted by candidates or their proposers at the Returning Officer’s office or Assistant Returning Officer 67-Kathua AC (ACR Kathua) at Deputy Commissioner’s office, Kathua, between 11:00 am to 03:00 pm on any day (excluding public holidays) not later than March 27, 2024.

Nomination forms are available at the office of the Returning Officer situated in the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Kathua.

Scrutiny of the nomination papers is slated for March 28, 2024 at 01:00 pm at Deputy Commissioner’s Office Kathua. Candidates hold the option to retract their candidature until March 30, 2024, until 03:00 pm.

The polling day for the constituency is marked for April 19, 2024, with polling set to transpire from 07:00 am to 06:00 pm.

Subsequently, during a Press Conference convened on the matter, Dr Minhas informed that no nomination process will occur on March 23rd, 24th, and 25th, 2024, owing to public holidays on these dates under the Negotiable Instrument Act, 1881.

Dr. Minhas emphasized the imperative for all eligible candidates and stakeholders to adhere meticulously to the election schedule and procedures as delineated in the election notification. He further urged for active participation and cooperation from all concerned parties to ensure the conduction of a fair and transparent election.

SRINAGAR — The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) unveiled its candidates for the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls on Saturday, naming Dr Jitendra Singh and Jugal Kishor Sharma to represent the Udhampur and Jammu constituencies respectively.

The announcement came as part of the party's first list of high-profile candidates for the upcoming general elections, finalized by the Central Election Committee late Thursday night and unveiled at a press conference in New Delhi.

This initial list, comprising 195 candidates, includes prominent figures such as Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, among others.

In Jammu and Kashmir, the BJP has endorsed Dr Jitendra Singh, the incumbent Member of Parliament from Udhampur, and Jugal Kishor Sharma, who currently represents the Jammu constituency. Both candidates secured victories in the 2019 elections.

PULWAMA — The people of Pulwama district came together today to express their strong condemnation of the senseless killing of a labourer named Deepu in Anantnag by suspected militants.

A peaceful rally was organized, with individuals from all walks of life, including members of the civil society, traders federation, and youth groups, expressing their solidarity with the victim's next of kin and denouncing the cowardly act.

The rally commenced with a candlelight march, where participants held placards condemning the tragic killing of Deepu. The march traversed through the main market of Pulwama town, attracting hundreds of concerned individuals who united in demanding justice for the innocent victim.

The heinous act committed against the Udhampur resident has deeply impacted the community, leading to a collective call for accountability and an end to such acts of violence. The peaceful rally served as a strong message of solidarity, highlighting the resilience and determination of the people of Pulwama in the face of such tragic incidents.

The participants voiced their grief and expressed their condolences to the family of the deceased. They emphasized the need for a swift and thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice, ensuring that such incidents do not recur in the future.

The unity demonstrated during the candlelight march showcased the unwavering spirit of the community, standing strong and advocating for peace and harmony.

The local authorities have taken note of the peaceful rally and assured the community of their commitment to delivering justice in the case. The collective voice of the people of Pulwama serves as a reminder that the region stands united against any form of violence and remains dedicated to maintaining peace and security.

As the investigation progresses, the hope for justice and the prevention of further innocent lives being lost remains at the forefront of the community's aspirations.

SRINAGAR — Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has approved an ex-gratia of Rs 5 lakh to the next of kin of a Udhampur man who was shot dead by suspected militants in Janglat Mandi area of south Kashmir's Anantnag district yesterday.

In a statement, issued to the news agency KNO, a spokesperson said that the LG also approved Rs 5 lakh each to the next of kin of those who lost their lives in a bus accident in Jammu.

The statement added that Rs 50,000 each have also been announced for those seriously injured.

"He has directed the district administration to take care of the treatment and provide all assistance to the bereaved families," it reads.

SRINAGAR — In a tragic incident, a resident of Udhampur was shot dead by suspected militants on Monday evening near Janglat Mandi, located in the southern region of Anantnag district in Kashmir.

The victim, identified as Deepu, was working at a private circus mela in an amusement park near Janglat Mandi when militants opened fire, inflicting fatal injuries upon him. Swift action was taken to rush him to a nearby hospital, but despite medical efforts, he succumbed to his wounds.

The Kashmir Zone Police took to Twitter to provide the initial details of the incident, stating that a case has been registered, and investigations are currently underway.

The incident has sent shockwaves through the region, highlighting the persistent security challenges faced by the authorities.

UDHAMPUR — At least 27 passengers sustained injuries after a bus overturned in the Udhampur district of Jammu on Tuesday. The mishap occurred near Dak Bungalow Ramnagar area of the district.

Official sources told the news agency KNT that 27 passengers on board were injured and shifted to Sub-District Hospital, Ramnagar for treatment. Police said that the bus was on its way to Surni from Ramnagar.

Meanwhile, the condition of the injured is stated to be stable.

JAMMU — In a show of unity by Jammu & Kashmir’s opposition parties, National Conference President Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Congress Working President Raman Bhalla on Thursday turned up at a rally organized by the Panthers Party on its foundation day in its stronghold of Udhampur.

Reports reaching the news agency KNO said that National Conference president and former chief minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah and Congress Working President Raman Bhalla have arrived at the function organized by the Panthers Party to observe its 41st Foundation Day.

It was not known whether any Peoples Democratic Party leader was invited by the Panthers Party.

Pertinently, the Panthers Party was founded on March 23, 1982 by Prof. Bhim Singh.

UDHAMPUR — The collision between a truck and a CRPF vehicle on Wednesday left five paramilitary personnel including four officers injured on the Jammu-Udhampur highway.

Official sources told the news agency KNT that there was a head-on collision between a speeding private truck (PB06B-7355) and a CRPF vehicle (JK02BN-6560) near Mand Takri area of Udhampur district of Jammu region in which four CRPF Sub-Inspectors and a trooper sustained injuries.

The injured were shifted to a nearby hospital for treatment. Official sources identified the four injured as Assistant Sub Inspectors including Brij Lal, Raj Kumar, Ramesh Kumar and Govind Raj and Selection Grade Constable Ashok Kumar.

Both the vehicles suffered damages, however, the truck driver was unhurt. Police seized the truck and arrested the driver for alleged rash driving.

SRINAGAR — Major General Mohit Seth on Tuesday took over as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Indian Army’s Kilo Force in the Kashmir Valley.

According to a statement, issued to the news agency KNO, Major General Sanjiv Singh Slaria on relinquishing the command moved to Headquarters of Northern Command, Udhampur.

The statement reads Major General Sanjiv Singh Slaria’s tenure saw the Kilo Force take distinctive steps toward peace and stability in north Kashmir.

“Major General Mohit Seth took over as General Officer Commanding today. He was commissioned into the 3 Madras Regiment in December 1991. An alumnus of National Defence Academy, he has attended the prestigious NDC at New Delhi,” it reads.

It further reads in his distinguished military career spanning over three decades, he has held various prestigious staff and command appointments in J&K, North East, and at Army Headquarters. “He has also served as Indian Army Liaison Officer, High Commission of India, United Kingdom,” it reads.

RAMBAN — A father-son duo was among four people killed in a road accident that took place near Chenani area of Udhampur district on Monday morning.

As per official reports, a Maruti vehicle bearing registration number JK19-1449, on its way from Gool Sangaldan towards Udhampur, skidded off the road and fell into a deep gorge near Prem Mandir Chenani, resulting in on-spot death of two persons and injuries to several others.

The deceased were identified as chief cleric Jamia Masjid Sangaldan Abdul Hamid (32) and his father, a top Islamic scholar, Mohammad Jamal Din (65).

Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Ramban in a tweet said, “Just in - Accident at Sarmoli. Reportedly, Mufti Abdul Hamid Saheb, Imam, Jamia Masjid Sangladan and his father, Mufti Jamal Din Saheb died on spot.”

In another tweet, the DC said, “All four passengers traveling in an Alto vehicle, which met with an accident near Samroli Udhampur, have died. The family belonged to Sangaldan, Gool. More updates will follow.”

The injured identified as Hajira Begum wife of Abdul Hamid and another youth Aadil Ahmad son of Gulzar Ahmad Malik (16) also succumbed at a hospital.

RAMBAN — A father-son duo was among four people killed in a road accident that took place near Chenani area of Udhampur district on Monday morning.

As per official reports, a Maruti vehicle bearing registration number JK19-1449, on its way from Gool Sangaldan towards Udhampur, skidded off the road and fell into a deep gorge near Prem Mandir Chenani, resulting in on-spot death of two persons and injuries to several others.

The deceased were identified as chief cleric Jamia Masjid Sangaldan Abdul Hamid (32) and his father, a top Islamic scholar, Mohammad Jamal Din (65).

Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner Ramban in a tweet said, “Just in - Accident at Sarmoli. Reportedly, Mufti Abdul Hamid Saheb, Imam, Jamia Masjid Sangladan and his father, Mufti Jamal Din Saheb died on spot.”

In another tweet, the DC said, “All four passengers traveling in an Alto vehicle, which met with an accident near Samroli Udhampur, have died. The family belonged to Sangaldan, Gool. More updates will follow.”

The injured identified as Hajira Begum wife of Abdul Hamid and another youth Aadil Ahmad son of Gulzar Ahmad Malik (16) also succumbed at a hospital.

SRINAGAR — Jammu & Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) Dilbagh Singh on Sunday said that an accused involved in the twin Udhampur bus blasts has been arrested.

Addressing a press conference here at Jammu, he said that the police had formed multiple teams including the personnel of other agencies and were investigating the matter through various angles and it came to fore that one accused Mohammad Amin Bhat is involved in these blasts.

"Bhat is involved in these blasts. He is settled in Pakistan. He contacted a militant named Aslam Sheikh through social media apps and provided him three sticky bombs and four new IEDs through a drone," ADGP Jammu Mukesh Singh said.

"On September 27, Mohammad Amin Bhat ordered him to plant bombs at suitable locations before a high-profile ministerial visit," the ADGP said, adding that he activated two IEDs and placed them in two buses.

"In one bus, he set a timer of 7 hours and in the other, he set a timer of 14 hours," he said and added, "Five IEDs including three sticky bombs have been recovered. With this module, a Jaish module was also linked and a person Zakir Hussian has been arrested and one sticky bomb has been recovered."

He also said that former militants are being recycled into militancy by their mentors from Pakistan to carry out sticky bomb attacks.

Recently, two back-to-back mysterious blasts took place in a bus that was parked at the bus stand in Udhampur. The first blast took place in an empty bus on Wednesday night and after eight hours, another blast occurred on Thursday morning. Two people have been injured in the incident and vehicles parked nearby have also suffered damage.

SRINAGAR — Four persons including children drowned to death on Friday after they had gone for grazing and fetching water for their cattle in a Nallah at Chattrari area of Ramnagar in Udhampur district.

An official told the Kashmir News Service (KNS), that at about 1430 hrs they received information four people including children who were grazing cattle drowned in a nallah at Chattrari Tehsil Ramnagar.

All the dead bodies were recovered and have been identified as Nishu Devi daughter of Firangu Ram, Anju Devi daughter of Firangu Ram, Meenakshi daughter of Fangu Ram of Chattrari Tehsil Ramnagar and Yash Pal son of som raj.

The official added their bodies have been shifted to SDH Ramnagar for medico-legal formalities.

JAMMU — The dead body of a civilian was recovered under mysterious circumstances in Chenani town of Udhampur district on Thursday.

Identified as Vanshu Bangotra of Roundmail Udhampur, the deceased was very active on social media against politicians, more so the leaders of a particular party.

SSP Udhampur Dr Vinod Kumar confirmed, as per the news agency GNS, the recovery of the body on the roadside and said that proceeding under section 174 CrPC has been launched to ascertain the cause of Bangotra’s death.