National
Mehbooba Cautions CM Omar Against Supporting the Abrogation of Article 370
She questioned the silence of the Omar Abdullah-led government regarding unjustified dismissals, the Waqf Bill, and the “systematic erosion” of people’s rights. In her statement, Mufti noted that despite the Supreme Court’s ruling favoring the Centre’s decision, many legal experts argue that Article 370 cannot be revoked by any authority, including Parliament. “While the BJP may not restore these rights, it is likely that the nation will do so eventually. Any endorsement from the J&K government would undermine this claim and weaken the state’s position. We must keep the argument and narrative alive,” she asserted.
Mufti also reminded the BJP-led Central government of the understanding shown during times of unrest in Jammu and Kashmir, citing instances when thousands of FIRs against stone pelters were dropped and a ceasefire was declared during Ramadan. A high-powered delegation was sent to engage with the people of J&K, including separatists, though they declined the offer.
She remarked that during that period, separatists believed that tactics like stone-pelting and attacking army camps would resolve the Kashmir issue, but the situation only deteriorated further.
The PDP president called on the BJP to step down from its “high horse” and recognize that the reality in Jammu and Kashmir is far from normal. “The illusion of normalcy has been maintained by force and the enforcement of harsh laws like the Public Safety Act and the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act,” she added. “However, this façade will not endure indefinitely. The government needs to reevaluate its approach, engage with the populace, and build on the confidence measures I initiated during my time in office.”
She also emphasized the importance of reopening vital trade routes, such as Uri-Muzaffarabad and Poonch-Rawalakot, to revitalize the region’s economy. “As Jammu faces increasing neglect, the Jammu-Sialkot route should also be revitalized to create a market for Jammu’s products,” she suggested, encouraging the government to look to her vision document and the Agenda of Alliance, which prioritize dialogue and economic growth.
Mufti claimed that very little has improved since Jammu and Kashmir elected a government last October. “What distinguishes LG rule from the NC government? The same crackdowns, property seizures, and persecutions of the Jamaat-e-Islami persist. Employees continue to face job terminations, youth are arrested under UAPA, and the misuse of PSA remains unchecked. Kashmiri youth are still imprisoned outside J&K with no relief,” she stated.
“Unemployment has surged, leaving youth in despair. Bureaucratic obstacles have made daily life unbearable. The Reorganization Act is being solidified, further diminishing J&K’s autonomy,” she concluded.
National
MoD Issues Warning About Fake WhatsApp Messages Requesting Donations for Indian Army Modernization
The fraudulent message claims that during a cabinet meeting, the Modi government decided to open a bank account for contributions towards the modernization of the Indian Army and for soldiers injured or martyred in conflict zones. It states, “Another great decision by the Modi government on superstar Akshay Kumar’s suggestion—just Rs 1 per day to support the Indian Army. Yesterday, the Modi government opened a bank account during a cabinet meeting for the Army and soldiers in war zones. Every Indian can donate any amount starting from Rs 1 to an unlimited sum. These funds will also be used to purchase weapons for the Army and paramilitary forces.”
Additionally, the message suggests that if 70% of India’s 1.3 billion population donates even one rupee daily, it would accumulate significant funds—transforming into 100 crores in a day, 3,000 crores in a month, and 36,000 crores in a year. It emphasizes that Pakistan’s annual defense budget doesn’t even reach Rs 36,000 crore and encourages citizens to contribute for the country’s ambition to become a superpower.
In response, the Ministry of Defence has clarified that the account details provided in the message are incorrect, resulting in failed online donations. “Individuals should be vigilant and avoid falling victim to such scams. The government has launched numerous welfare schemes for soldiers who are killed or disabled in active duty,” the statement asserted.
The Ministry highlighted the establishment of the ‘Armed Forces Battle Casualty Welfare Fund (AFBCWF)’ in 2020, which provides immediate financial assistance to the families of soldiers who lose their lives or suffer severe injuries during military operations. The Indian Army, under the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare, manages the fund’s accounts. Contributions can be made directly to the Armed Forces Battle Casualties Welfare Fund, with correct bank account details provided in the official announcement.
The individual, a 40-year-old man from Jaipur, Rajasthan, was flagged by customs officers based on profiling measures. Following his arrival from Dubai on Friday, the necessary legal actions are being taken in accordance with Customs regulations.
The authorities intercepted him at the green channel exit.
Upon conducting an X-ray examination of his luggage, customs officials noticed suspicious images. Although the Door Frame Metal Detector (DFMD) did not signal any alerts for the passenger, a thorough inspection of his baggage led to the discovery of the gold bars.
In a recent reshuffle, several IAS officers were transferred, including Smitha Sabharwal, who served as the Secretary for Youth Advancement, Tourism, and Culture. She has been assigned to the Finance Commission just as the Miss World beauty pageant approaches, marking its first occurrence in the state.
Sabharwal reportedly faced backlash from the Chief Minister due to a Ghibli-style AI-generated image of bulldozers connected to the Kancha Gachibowli issue she shared on her ‘X’ account, leading to police summons. Jayesh Ranjan, formerly the industry secretary, has now taken over her position in the tourism department.
Jayesh Ranjan also steps into the Chief Minister’s office as CEO of the Industry and Investment Cell. Additionally, R V Karnan has been appointed as the GHMC Commissioner, previously known for conducting rigorous inspections and imposing fines on food establishments for hygiene violations.
M Dana Kishore, who was overseeing the Municipal Administration and Urban Development Department, has been transferred to the Labour Department.
MoD Issues Warning About Fake WhatsApp Messages Requesting Donations for Indian Army Modernization
Customs Officials Detain Passenger with 2 kg of Gold Bars at Delhi Airport
Telangana Appoints K. Ramakrishna Rao as New Chief Secretary
“Hidden Love” Spin-Off “The First Frost” Now Streaming on Netflix
UP Government Unveils Landmark ₹8.08 Lakh Crore Budget for 2025-26
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