Jammu News

JAMMU: Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha has greeted the people on the joyous occasion of Holi.

In a message, the Lt Governor said that the festival of colours symbolises the spirit of togetherness and harmony.

“Holi inspires us to rejoice in the grandeur of existence and in all its varied colours. May the joy and colour touch the lives of all, strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and usher in peace, prosperity and happiness for all,” the Lt Governor said.

Jammu : Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha Monday said that the government has identified land for the construction of PoJK Bhawan for the displaced PoJK people, who have suffered a lot over the past so many decades while as the colonies they are living in will be “regularized shortly.” He was quick to add that PoJK was an integral part of India and no power can keep it away from the Union.

Talking to reporters on the sidelines of an event titled special governance for PoJK people, in Jammu, the LG, as per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said that the divisional administration Jammu has identified land where PoJK Bhawan will come up for the displaced PoJK refugees. “These people have suffered a lot and their children are the worst sufferers. We will soon have a PoJK Bhawan and the colonies where these people are living at present will be regularized shortly,” he said, adding that the children of displaced PoJK refugees will be given priority in jobs and education.

He said that the government is committed to resolve all issues being faced by the PoJK refugees. “PoJK will come up as per the aspirations of refugees,” the LG said, adding that the divisional administration and the revenue officials will hold deliberations with the displaced PoJK people before setting the ball rolling for the PoJK Bhawan.

He said that PoJK is an integral part of India and no power on earth can keep it away from the Union for long. “I urge all the PoJK people including women and youth to play their part in building a strong India and Vibrant India,” he said.

He said PoJK will benefit from every scheme of the government. “Industrial boom is coming up in J&K. Rs 13000 Cr work related to Industries have already started and more is in the offing. There was a shortage of land bank which is being looked into,” the LG said.

He said that the way a huge list of KP youth have been received the administration for entrepreneurship, similarly, PoJK should follow the suit. “Register your youth in the camps and administration will provide all support for your youth to become entrepreneurs who can provide employment to five other youth,” he said, adding that these camps will be organized in every district.

He said that 50 lakh youth took part in sports related activities as huge investment was made to upgrade the sports infrastructure across the UT. He said large number of people were deprived of their rights and it was for the first time after the historic decision taken by Prime Minister Narendera Modi on August 5, 2019, these people got all their rights. “These people are living a dignified life now,” he said.

He said that the administration has directed all the banks to provide all support to youth who are coming forward to start their own ventures—(KNO)

JAMMU: Money generated from the narcotics trade is returned to Pakistan and subsequently used to fund terror activities in Jammu and Kashmir, Director-General of Police Dilbag Singh on Sunday.

Singh’s comment comes close on the heels of a large stockpile of drugs, cash and weapons being recovered near the Line of Control in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch.

“We are faced with a new challenge where the drugs and weapons are smuggled from Pakistan together. While the weapons are delivered to the terrorists, the major part of the drug proceeds are returned to handlers (across the border) and the rest shared by the peddlers.

“The proceeds (from the drugs trade) are being utilised to keep terrorism alive (in Jammu and Kashmir),” the police chief told reporters here on the sidelines of the Jammu Marathon.

The ‘Run for Fun’ Jammu Marathon was organised by the police here as part of its civic action programme and drew hundreds of participants from all walks of life at Gulshan Ground.

Responding to a question on the seizure of seven kilogramme of heroin, over Rs 2.30 crore in cash and some arms and ammunition from the home of a notorious drug peddler in Mandi sector on March 3, Singh said a dozen major peddling rackets had been busted in the recent past.

“The probes unearthed interstate connections of drug trafficking, especially connected to Punjab, and raids were conducted. We are also roping in the Narcotics Control Bureau and, like in the past, investigated various cases together.

“In this (Poonch) case, the entire module involved in the drug trafficking will be unveiled and stern action taken against those found involved,” he said.

This was the second time such a huge recovery of cash was made near the Line of Control following the earlier seizure of Rs 1.50 crore in Poonch.

“The money generated from the drugs trade is returned to handlers in Pakistan who use the cash to fund terror activities. Some cash is handed over to infiltrating terrorists. Money is also sent to this side by drones,” he said.

Singh said if anyone is assigned the task of triggering a blast, he is given both the improvised explosive device and the prize money in advance by drone.

“This is the same money that is generated by the drugs trade and used by Pakistani agencies and terrorist groups operating from there,” Singh said.

Asked about the criticism of security agencies by certain political leaders, he said they must refrain from making such comments and added that otherwise, action will be taken if the need arises.

“Politicians will play politics but the police and the forces have to do their own work. It is not good on the part of anyone, whether a politician or otherwise, to do something that will vitiate the peaceful atmosphere. People should desist from such things,” he said.

The police chief said, “We have opposed such type of actions (criticism of police) and when, at times, the things move beyond a limit, action is being taken accordingly.” Speaking on the security arrangements for the upcoming G20 meetings, Singh said necessary measures would be ensured for the events’ success.

“It is a proud moment for all of us that a few G20 events are being organised in Jammu and Kashmir. We are making adequate arrangements to ensure security.

“Such types of events are meant for the betterment of the people who are expected to participate in large numbers,” he said.

JAMMU: The Congress launched a month-long ‘Haath Se Haath Jodo’ campaign from here on Sunday, with its leaders and workers chanting slogans against the imposition of property tax and calling for early restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood.

Led by AICC incharge of ‘Haath Se Haath Jodo’ yatra in Jammu and Kashmir Bharat Singh Solanki and Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) president Vikar Rasool Wani, the yatra began from Janipur and headed to Raipur in Jammu north assembly.

Jammu and Kashmir Congress working president Raman Bhalla, former ministers Mula Ram and Yogesh Sawhney, party chief spokesperson Ravinder Sharma and other senior leaders joined the march which saw participants raise slogans against property tax and anti-encroachment drives.

They also carried placards criticising the BJP-led central government over its alleged failure to check inflation and provide employment to the educated youth.

“The Haath Se Haath Jodo yatra-cum-agitational programme is the second phase of the Bharat Jodo Yatra, which shall culminate at the end of this month after covering various districts and constituencies of Jammu and Kashmir,” AICC incharge of the yatra in Jammu and Kashmir Solanki said.

“The main focus of this programme is to highlight various issues of people like the imposition of property tax, snatching of land from the poor in the name of anti-encroachment drive, unprecedented price hike, record unemployment and other arbitrary orders of government,” he said.

On February 21, the Jammu and Kashmir administration ordered the imposition of property tax in municipal areas from April 1, drawing strong protests from people from almost all walks of life. Political parties are demanding an immediate rollback of the order.

According to a government notification, the tax rates will be five per cent of the taxable annual value for residential properties and six per cent for commercial properties.

Lashing out at the government over its “anti-people” policies, PCC president Wani demanded immediate rollback of the property tax and an end to the anti-encroachment drive.

He also demanded that the government ensure immediate restoration of Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood, early assembly elections and safety of minorities living in the Valley.

The Centre revoked the special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir under Article 370 of the Constitution on August 5, 2019 and divided it into two union territories.

 

JAMMU: Six hand grenades and 127 rounds of general purpose machine gun were recovered during construction of a road in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri district on Sunday, police officials said.

The grenades and ammunition were found buried by workers engaged in construction of a link road in remote Neali village of Manjakote tehsil, the officials said.

Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Zaffer Rather said the grenades and ammunition, which were found buried, are in a rusted condition indicating that these items were kept there a long back.

The SDPO said the material was seized immediately after police were informed about it by the locals.

POONCH: The snow clearance process has been started on the historic Mughal highway connecting Kashmir Valley with Poonch and Rajouri districts of Pir Panchal region, officials said today.

Snow has been removed from the road up to Pushana check post, said an official.

AEE Mechanical wing, Riyaz Ahmad said the snow clearance hasn’t been started from Shopian yet. He said that the snow clearance with begin from Shopian from Monday.

He said that the staff and machinery from Poonch side have reached Pushana and are moving upwards.

However, the process of snow removal up to Peer ki Gali and the complete restoration of the road depends on the weather conditions.

The road was closed for traffic after heavy snowfall in the first week of January.

 

POONCH: In what appears to be a narco-terror module being run with involvement of Punjab smugglers, Poonch police and CRPF today recovered 7 kg of heroin, Rs 2 crore cash, arms and ammunition from the house of a notorious drug peddler in Mandi area of border district of Poonch.

Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Jammu, Mukesh Singh informed that the narco-terror module was active in the area close to the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch. “Huge quantity of heroin and cash was recovered from the house of a drug peddler from Poonch named Rafi Dhana, alias Rafi Lala” said the ADGP.

He said that Rafi Dhana was detained under Public Safety Act (PSA) as he is a notorious drug smuggler. “After receiving an input, Poonch police team led by Inspector Sunil and CRPF today searched the house of Rafi. During search, 7 kg heroin, around Rs 2 crore in cash and a pistol with 1 magazine , 10 rounds along with seven rounds of SLR was recovered,” the ADGP informed.

He said security forces have launched searches in the area with police checking every house. The searches continued till Friday late evening in presence of magistrate and prominent citizens.

“The nexus of this module with Punjab-based narcotics smugglers is being investigated. A case has been registered at police station Mandi and investigation set into motion,” the ADGP informed.

The integrity, dedication and professionalism of J&K Police are pivotal in the fight against terrorism. We all take pride in the excellence & professionalism displayed by J&K Police in handling narco-terrorism and enforcing the rule of law: LG

These are challenging times for our police forces as the world today is facing conventional & non-conventional threats. We need to be vigilant & determined to neutralise the ecosystem providing ideological and financial support to terrorists: LG

We are committed to dealing with challenges of narco terror in a comprehensive manner. J&K UT is on the march and is being transformed. It is our sacred duty to provide safe, secure & right environment to fulfill the aspirations of common man: LG Sinha

KATHUA, MARCH 03: Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha today attended the Attestation cum Passing out Parade of Recruit Constables of 29th BRTC Batch at S.Prithinandan Singh Police Training School, Kathua.

The Lt Governor congratulated and welcomed the new recruits to one of the finest police forces in the country.

I am confident that you will discharge your responsibility towards the nation with utmost sensitivity, commitment and dedication, added the Lt Governor.

“The integrity, dedication and professionalism of J&K Police are pivotal in the fight against terrorism. We all take pride in the excellence & professionalism displayed by J&K Police in handling narco-terrorism and enforcing the rule of law,” said the Lt Governor.

The Lt Governor stressed upon the future-ready policing strategies to tackle the new forms of internal security challenges.

“These are challenging times for our police forces as the world today is facing conventional & non-conventional threats. We need to be vigilant & determined to neutralise the ecosystem providing ideological and financial support to terrorists,” the Lt Governor said.

“We believe in ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ and peaceful coexistence. There is no place for subversive elements in a civilized society,” observed the Lt Governor.

Today, Narco-Terrorism has become one of the biggest threats to the society. The UT Administration, J&K Police and our Security Forces are committed to dealing with challenges of narco terror in a comprehensive manner.  J&K UT is on the march and is being transformed. It is our sacred duty to provide a safe, secure and right environment to fulfill the aspirations of the common man, he said.

Noting that the top positions in the batch has been secured by women constables, the Lt Governor said that these achievements show that our women are no less than anyone.

The Lt Governor further asked the DGP, Sh Dilbag Singh to consider increasing the quota of reservation for women in the police force.

Speaking on property tax and anti-encroachment drives, the Lt Governor said that the administration is committed to protect the interests of common man.

The property tax in J&K will be one of the lowest in the country. It is being ensured that no poor will be affected during the anti-encroachment drive, he added.

The Lt Governor further shared the unprecedented progress registered in sectors like agriculture, industries & tourism.

Sh. Dilbag Singh, DGP extended his best wishes to the new recruits. The skills, knowledge, values that you have acquired during your training will serve as the foundation for your career in this noble profession, he added.

The DGP expressed gratitude to the UT Administration for its continuous support in police modernization.

Sh Roop Raj, Principal, SPS PTS Kathua informed about the training program on various specialized modules and other activities conducted during the training course.

An oath was administered to the passing out cadets for performing their duties with dedication and honesty.

The Lt Governor took the Rashtriya Salute and witnessed the spectacular parade and martial art demonstration. He also felicitated the cadets who excelled during their training course.

R/Ct. Sunali Bhagat emerged as the best all-rounder. Recruit Constables Ms Sarleen Kour, Ms Sapna Saini, Ms Heena Choudhary and Ms Nitika Rajput were also felicitated by the Lt Governor for their excellent performances.

A total of 480 new recruits, including 49 women recruit Constables have completed their rigorous training today at the PTS Kathua. Out of 480, as many as 330 constables have already served as SPOs, 32 as followers, and 85 have been appointed under SRO.

Senior serving and retired police & army personnel, PRI representatives, and family members of the passing out cadets were present on the occasion.

 

JAMMU: Northern Command chief Lt Gen Upendra Dwivedi has said that situation in Jammu and Kashmir has been slowly moving towards normalcy and counter-terror operations have nullified and limited the kinetic threat.

He was speaking at the Northern Command Investiture Ceremony organized at the Mathura Military Station. His address was released by the Defence spokesperson of Northern Command.

“The situation in Jammu and Kashmir has been slowly moving towards normalcy. Efficient persistence in operational planning has resulted in real time tracking and neutralizing of 186 terrorists in high-risk operations in the year 2022. The highest standards of professionalism and jointness displayed by the troops in all dimensions of counter-terror operations has nullified/ limited the kinetic threat” Lt Gen Dwivedi said.

Referring to the situation along the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan, the Army Commander said LoC remained stable and the ceasefire understanding continues to sustain.

However, he added, a very strict vigil and a robust technology enabled multi-tiered counter infiltration grid is being maintained, to thwart any attempts aimed at infiltration of militants.

“Ceasefire violations, infiltration bids or any other misadventure attempted by the adversary will be dealt with firmly,” he declared.

Regarding situation along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China in Eastern Ladakh, Lt Gen Dwivedi said: “We are ever-ready to respond to any attempt to unilaterally change the status quo. Progressive initiatives for tri-services and inter-agency cooperation to include ITBP and BSF and other CAPFs have borne desired results. Coordinated training, exercises and operational tasks are being undertaken by all stakeholders to streamline procedures and enhance our ability to robustly defend our borders”. At the same time, he said, the measures to resolve the LAC situation at diplomatic and operational levels are also simultaneously underway.

However, he warned, any adverse aggressive designs or attempts will definitely be met with appropriate posturing of troops and a strong intent.

“The areas of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh under Northern Command, are very important for India from the geographical and strategic point of view. The unique operational situation of Northern Command along our borders warrants undivided attention to operational preparedness in order to guard the LC/LAC/AGPL, while keeping the hinterland safe and thus Northern Command is always in combat,” the Army Commander said as he commended the brave men of Northern Command for their excellent performance in different operations.

“Our brave officers, JCOs and soldiers have displayed conspicuous gallantry, raw courage, indomitable gallantry and outstanding leadership,” he said.

He added that the Government has been extremely supportive in ensuring the availability of new generation weapon systems, equipment and special clothing to the troops, who are braving extreme weather and hostile conditions.
The Chief of Army Staff driven ‘Transformation’ is being taken forward by Northern Command in the right earnest and we have accelerated the achievement of goal of a “Self-Reliant India”, he said.

“More than 800 kilometres of new roads have been constructed by BRO in Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh in line with the Gatishakti initiative at the national level. There will be a huge impetus to our combating power through the construction of Ladakh Eastern Highway, Shinkula Tunnel & Zojila Tunnel,” Lt Gen Dwivedi said.

Meanwhile, 66 awardees received Gallantry and Distinguished Service awards at the Investiture Ceremony.

This included 49 Sena Medals (Gallantry), one Bar to Sena Medal (Gallantry), one Yudh Seva Medal, four Sena Medals for Distinguished Service, 10 Vishisht Seva Medals and one Bar to Vishisht Seva Medal, the statement said.

The Army said a total of 33 officers, three junior commissioned officers and 29 other ranks were awarded and recognised for various acts of valour and distinguished services.

One Sena Medal (Gallantry) was received on behalf of rifleman Hussain Khan, who is in coma after being injured in an operation, by his father.

Lt Gen Dwivedi congratulated all awardees for their conspicuous bravery and dedication to duty, and urged all those present to emulate their achievements.

JAMMU: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Thursday reviewed the scope of works for widening of the twin tracks leading to the 3,880-metre-high holy cave shrine of Amarnath.

Sinha was chairing a meeting of the officers from the administration and the Border Roads Organization (BRO) at Raj Bhavan in Jammu, an official spokesman said.

Among others, the meeting was attended by member of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board K.N. Rai, principal secretary, Public works (Roads and Buildings) department, Shailendra Kumar and Chief Engineer BRO Brig Saket Singh.

During the meeting, the spokesman said, the Lt Governor sought the details of the scope of work to be undertaken for the widening, restoration and maintenance of both the stretch of the yatra track that has been handed over to the BRO.

The Lt Governor was apprised of the scope of work, surveyed via drone, he said, adding Mr. Sinha impressed upon the BRO to complete the works within the specified time frame.

Both the tracks – 48-km Nunwan-Pahalgam in Anantnag district and 14-km shorter Baltal in Ganderbal district – are presently covered under snow and are likely to be cleared by mid-April, depending on the weather conditions. The annual yatra usually starts in the month of June or early July.