Kashmir.Watch

Category: Union Territory

  • Fuel stations resume operations normally as transporters call off strike

    Srinagar, Jan 03: The fuel stations across Jammu & Kashmir resumed the operations normally after the transporters decided to call off strike following the government’s assurances.

    Earlier on Tuesday, the people were seen queuing up at almost all the fuel stations, waiting to get the fuel in cans, bottles and other things as the transporters had called for a strike in wake of the ‘new penal law’.

    In the late evening hours, the transporters called off their strike after holding a meeting with the government, assuring them that they will be taken on board before implementing the new law.

    However, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), all the fuel stations resumed their operations normally today while a rush of commuters continued to be witnessed there throughout the day.

    “It took me almost half an hour to get the petrol at fuel station near Munawarabad here as the rush of vehicles remained high,” one of the commuters said, adding that unlike yesterday, the fuel was available at all the fuel stations—(KNO)

    January 3, 2024

  • Kashmir’s Umrah tour operators report drastic slump in pilgrimage bookings this season

    ’50 per cent dip in reservations despite slashed rates’

    Srinagar, Jan 01: Umrah tour operators in Kashmir are grappling with subdued response this season with heavy slump in the bookings.

    As per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), this is despite the fact that the rate of Umrah package this year is comparatively Rs 10,000 low compared to the previous year.

    Umrah is an Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca that can be undertaken any time of the year.

    Typically, the Umrah season, i,e from December to March, in Kashmir sees a surge in bookings and enthusiasm as devout Muslims embark on a spiritual journey to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. However, this year has proven to be an exception, with tour operators facing unexpected challenges that have resulted in a substantial decline in the number of pilgrims.

    As per the Umrah tour operators of Kashmir, very few people have turned to book Umrah packages this season.

    “We would often get bookings for Umrah starting in October. It is December and we receive very few people who opt for Umrah. From Srinagar, we receive very few pilgrims compared to the rest of the valley,” president Jammu and Kashmir Association of Hajj Umrah Companies, Sheikh Feroz told KNO.

    He said they witnessed a notable 50% decrease in the flow of pilgrims compared to the previous year.

    “We anticipate the overall flow of pilgrims this season will be almost 50 percent less compared to last year. This year, we have bookings to some extent in January but it is too low in February. We didn’t have enough advance bookings,” Feroz said.

    He said the flow of pilgrims last year was satisfactory as the rush was the highest since Covid-19.

    “Umrah services were affected during the pandemic. Last year, there were no restrictions and the flow of pilgrims was huge. We are still hopeful that booking may improve in February and March,” Feroz said.

    Lateef Ahmad, an Umrah tour operator, said they have slashed the prices of Umrah this year to attract more pilgrims.

    “Still the flow is not up to the mark. Post covid-19 Kashmir saw a good hike in the number of pilgrims performing Umrah. This year, it seems people are financially stressed due to which the flow is very low,” he said.

    Pertinently, a total of 18 lakh Indian Muslims performed Umrah in 2023 — the third highest in the world, Saudi Arabia government officials earlier said—(KNO)

    January 1, 2024

  • Important Weather Prediction: Two Western disturbances are possible

    Two Western disturbances are possible in Jammu and Kashmir during Next 10 days over Jammu and Kashmir.

    As per current analysis Ist Western disturbance are possible around 4th -05th January under its influence only cloudy sky are expected with little bit possibilities of light snow over few higher reaches on 5th January.

    As per today Observation, Another Western disturbance are expected from 08th January ( more updates regarding this will be shared in coming days) .

    Mostly dry weather are forecasted till 07 January with chances of light snow over upper reaches on 05th January.

    Forecast Prepared By: Kashmir Weather Forecast

    January 1, 2024

  • Kashmir welcomes New Year with ‘never seen before’ celebrations

    Srinagar: In a breathtaking spectacle of lights, music, and cultural fervor, the Kashmir Valley welcomed the New Year with unprecedented celebrations that left both locals and tourists mesmerized. The credit for the grand success of the festivities goes to the meticulous arrangements made by the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department, which went above and beyond to ensure a memorable start to 2024.

    The picturesque landscapes of Kashmir provided a stunning backdrop to the festivities, as the region witnessed a surge in tourism during the New Year celebrations.

    From the snow-capped peaks of Gulmarg, Sonmarg, Phalgam to the serene Dal Lake in Srinagar, and clock tower lal chowk, the valley was transformed into a festive haven, drawing in thousands of visitors eager to experience the unique charm of Kashmir.

    The Tourism Department’s efforts were evident in the elaborate decorations that adorned popular tourist spots.

    News agency KNS reported that the iconic clock tower Lalchowk was aglow with vibrant lights, Gulmarg, the winter wonderland, featured dazzling ice sculptures, creating an ethereal atmosphere that captivated the imagination of all who attended.

    The celebrations kicked off with a cultural extravaganza that showcased the rich heritage of Kashmir.

    Local artists and performers took center stage, presenting traditional music, dance, and drama that resonated with the audience. The event served as a platform for local talent to shine, promoting the cultural diversity that defines the valley.

    To ensure the safety and comfort of the visitors, the police implemented robust security measures and efficient crowd management.

    Additional personnel were deployed to monitor the festivities.

    The success of the event is a testament to the meticulous planning and execution by the department.

    Tourists expressed their delight at the unique and vibrant celebrations. Many were quick to praise the warm hospitality extended by the locals and the efforts of the Tourism Department in showcasing the region’s cultural wealth.

    “I never expected such a grand celebration in Kashmir. The beauty of the place is already mesmerizing, and the New Year celebrations have made it even more special,” Neha Sharma, a tourist from New Delhi told KNS.

    Tourism officials are optimistic that the successful New Year celebrations will contribute to boosting the tourism sector in the region. The department plans to build on this momentum by organizing more events throughout the year to showcase the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Kashmir.

    As the clock struck midnight and fireworks illuminated the night sky, the people of Kashmir and their guests collectively ushered in the New Year with hope and positivity. The resounding success of the celebrations has set a high bar for future events and has positioned Kashmir as a top destination for those seeking unique and unforgettable experiences.(KNS)

    January 1, 2024

  • Home Minister Amit Shah announces banning of Kashmiri Separatist outfit of Syed Ali Shah Geelani

    New Delhi : India’s Home Minister @AmitShah announces banning of Kashmiri Separatist outfit of Syed Ali Shah Geelani – Tehreek e Hurriyat. The ‘Tehreek-e-Hurriyat, J&K (TeH) has been declared an ‘Unlawful Association’ under UAPA.The outfit is involved in forbidden activities to separate J&K from India and establish Islamic rule. The group is found spreading anti-India propaganda and continuing terror activities to fuel secessionism in J&K.

    December 31, 2023

  • Alleged illegal route selling by transport unions: RTO Kashmir assures action

    Srinagar, Dec 30: Taking serious note of allegations levelled against registered transport unions for illegal route selling within the transportation industry, Regional Transport Office (RTO) Kashmir has assured to take strict action against those involved.

    RTO Kashmir, known for its regulatory oversight and enforcement capabilities, has taken a serious note of these allegations. The office shall initiate an immediate investigation into the matter, utilizing its resources and expertise to uncover any illegal practices and identify those responsible sources told Asian News Hub (ANH).

    Sources said registered transport unions are selling routes for Rs 50,000, which has raised serious concern among commuters and stakeholders within the transportation sector.

    An official in RTO Kashmir told ANH, “we are committed to uphold ethical standards and promoting a safe and reliable transportation system for the public.”

    “We assure public, commuters, and stakeholders that a thorough investigation will be carried out to uncover the truth behind these allegations. If any wrongdoing is found, strict actions will be taken against those involved.”

    December 30, 2023

  • People Of Kashmir Free For First Time: PM Modi

    Srinagar- Prime Minister Narendra Modi has said that people of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are free for the first time with the abrogation of Article 370 and they can now shape their destinies with their own hands.

    In an interview with India Today, PM also said that the Constitution of India, which protects the rights of socially vulnerable groups, is fully applicable to the people of Jammu and Kashmir.

    He also spoke about the Supreme Court upholding Parliament’s decision to abrogate Article 370, elections in the Valley and ensuring sustained peace in Jammu and Kashmir.

    “The issue in front of the country is not the Supreme Court bringing legal closure. The people have an issue with the delay in terminating a temporary provision,” Modi said.

    He said despite India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru statement in Parliament on Article-370 that “Ghiste ghiste ghis jayega (it would erode and disappear one day)”, for seven decades, the people of Jammu and Kashmir were deprived of their rights, especially women and those from underprivileged communities.

    “With Article 370 gone forever, the people of J&K and Ladakh, for the first time, are free to shape their destinies with their own hands,” he said.

    The provisions of Article 370 were abrogated by the Centre on August 5, 2019, and the erstwhile state was bifurcated into the Union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. On December 11 this year, the Supreme Court five-judge Constitution Bench said the President’s 2019 order to scrap Article 370 was valid.

    Speaking of the changes that have taken in the Union Territory post Article-370 abrogation, the PM said that the women of Jammu and Kashmir are today emerging in various fields, from sports to entrepreneurship, while new industries are opening up.

    “Terrorism has hit record lows while tourism is hitting record highs. International events, such as G20 meetings, have taken place, and the world has witnessed the hospitality and pristine beauty of the region,” he said.

    On what his government is doing to ensure this peace is sustained in Jammu and Kashmir, the PM said the Centre has adopted a multi-pronged approach with focus on security, development, investment in infrastructure and human capital and a complete re-engineering of government processes through reforms.

    “We are absolutely on the path of ensuring sustainable peace, stability and prosperity for the people of the region by improving their living standards, promoting economic growth and generating employment opportunities,” the PM added

    On holding elections in J&K, PM Modi said, “Jammu and Kashmir is already represented in our Parliament at the national level. At the local level, for the first time, we have been able to take democracy to the grassroots. A three-tier panchayati raj system has been established in the state and 35,000 leaders elected at the grassroots. Why do we underestimate the importance of these elections?”

    “Be it democracy, development or dynamism, today the people of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are seeing all-round progress in every aspect,” he added.

    December 30, 2023

  • Jammu reports fresh Covid-19 case

    No need to panic, take precautions, measures put in place to meet any challenge: Officials

    Srinagar, Dec 29: After a long hiatus, a fresh case of Covid-19 has been reported in Jammu and Kashmir even as officials said that there is no need to panic but advised people to take precautions.

    An official from GMC Jammu told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that a patient who had come in contact with the person who had returned from abroad has been tested positive for Covid.

    He said that this was the first case of now endemic Covid-19, however, his sample has been sent to the genome sequencing laboratory to find the sub-variant behind the case.

    He added that the patient who is recovering now had mild symptoms and has been kept under observation at home.

    He added that there is no need to panic but people need to take precautions like they were taking earlier.

    An official said that normal precautions are enough to combat Covid-19 and its strains and there is no need to panic.

    They said that young people going outside need to take more precautions as they may contract a virus and then it may spread to elderly ones and people having underlying problems.

    They added that people having underlying problems need to take more precautions and contracting any virus for these people may prove fatal .

    Officials from the Kashmir division said that no fresh Covid-19 has been reported in the Kashmir division.

    Spokesperson DHSK Dr Mir Mushtaq told KNO that people shouldn’t think about variants rather they need to focus on precautions so as to keep the disease away.

    “They need to understand whether Covid-19 or its variant is a one disease and the same precautions are required to keep Covid-19 and its strains or variants away,” he said—(KNO)

    December 29, 2023

  • Mirwaiz Umar Farooq strongly denounced his repeated house detention on Fridays to prevent him from delivering Friday Sermon at Jama Masjid

    File Photo

    Those in charge of decision-making should revisit this policy, considering historical precedents and adopting a long-term perspective.

    Mirwaiz Umar Farooq today strongly denounced his repeated house detention, especially on Fridays, aimed at preventing him from delivering the Friday sermon at central Jamia Masjid Srinagar and participating in obligatory Friday prayers. Mirwaiz mentioned that after his release from four years of continued house detention since August 2019, on September 22nd he was only permitted to go to Jamia Masjid on three Fridays. Since then, every Friday, he has been put under house arrest without any reason provided by the authorities.

    Since October 13, Jamia Masjid itself was locked to people for ten consecutive Fridays, and it was only last week that people were allowed to offer Friday prayers there. However, the duration of this permission remains uncertain while the ban on me continues. The authorities whimsically open or close the central Jamia Masjid to Muslims for prayers without accountability, and no one can inquire why.

    This arbitrariness, disregard for religious rights and sentiments of Muslims, and strong-arm tactics of the authorities, even on the basic human principle of allowing the practice of religion uninterrupted, are telling signs of the time and situation we are living in. It also mocks the authorities’ own statements claiming “Things are great in Jammu & Kashmir, and I am a free man who can go anywhere.”

    Mirwaiz reiterated his belief that repression of any kind, including on religious rights, cannot bring or maintain “peace.” He urged those in charge of decision-making to revisit this policy, considering historical precedents and adopting a long-term perspective.

    December 29, 2023

  • Centre bans Masarat Alam led J&K Muslim League for 5 years





    Srinagar, Dec 27: The Centre on Wednesday declared Muslim League Jammu and Kashmir, led by incarcerated separatist leader Masarat Alam Bhat, as ‘unlawful association’ and banned it for 5 years under UAPA.

    In a post on X, Home Minister Amit Shah, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that this organisation and its members are involved in anti-national and secessionist activities supporting terrorist activities and inciting people to establish Islamic rule in J&K.

    “The ‘Muslim League Jammu Kashmir (Masarat Alam faction)’/MLJK-MA is declared as an ‘Unlawful Association’ under UAPA,” he said.

    He said that PM Modi led government’s message is loud and clear that anyone acting against the unity, sovereignty, and integrity of the nation will not be spared and face the full wrath of the law—(KNO)