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The Quick Update, Lal Chowk, Srinagar (2025)

06/06/2025

Omar Abdullah Hails Modi for Fulfilling Dream of Chenab Rail Bridge

Urges Restoration of J&K’s Statehood

Srinagar, June 7: Marking a moment of immense pride and progress, Jammu and Kashmir witnessed the inauguration of the world’s highest railway arch bridge over the Chenab River. On the occasion, former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for realizing a long-pending dream that has now connected the Kashmir Valley to the rest of the country by rail.

Speaking at the event, Omar Abdullah said, “Many people had this dream. What the British couldn’t do, you got done. Kashmir is now truly linked to India through this remarkable rail network.”

He also recalled the early days of the project, crediting former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee for laying the foundation. “I was in Class 8 when this project began. Today I’m 55 and I finally see it completed. Vajpayee ji not only declared it a national project but ensured it had the necessary funding,” he noted with gratitude.

Reflecting on the shifting political landscape, Omar took a pointed dig at the changes in J&K’s administrative status. “While Manoj Sinha ji has been promoted with the blessings of Mata, I’ve gone from being Chief Minister of a state to that of a Union Territory. But I hope this change will be corrected soon. With your help, Prime Minister Modi, J&K will regain its statehood,” he appealed.

Highlighting his personal connection to J&K’s railway journey, Omar said, “I’ve been fortunate to witness key milestones—from the Anantnag Station and the Banihal Tunnel to the Katra Station in 2014, and now this engineering marvel. This bridge isn’t just steel and stone—it’s the fulfilment of a generational aspiration.”

He also underscored the pace of development under ongoing infrastructure projects including the Jammu and Srinagar Ring Roads, the Delhi-Amritsar-Katra Expressway, four-lane highways, airport upgrades, and sustained railway expansion.

“This bridge represents more than just connectivity—it symbolizes unity, aspiration, and a forward path for our people. We are committed to building a developed Jammu and Kashmir for a developed India,” Omar concluded, extending heartfelt thanks to the Prime Minister on behalf of the people.

The inauguration was hailed as a landmark moment in both engineering and regional integration, solidifying Kashmir’s rail link as a pillar of national cohesion and progress.

05/06/2025

Tourism Federation Jammu Appeals to PM Modi: Shine Spotlight on Jammu’s Tourism Potential

Rajesh Gupta Stresses Jammu’s Peaceful Ambience and Pilgrimage Circuit as Tourism Assets

Jammu, June 5: As Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to inaugurate the landmark Katra-Srinagar rail link, the Tourism Federation of Jammu has made a heartfelt appeal urging the Hon’ble Prime Minister to recognize and promote the tourism potential of the Jammu region during his address.

The region, long celebrated for its patriotic spirit and spiritual richness, is home to renowned pilgrimage sites such as Shri Mata Vaishno Devi in Katra, Kausernag, Machail Mata in Padder Kishtwar, and Buddha Amarnath in Poonch. Its untouched natural beauty, cultural depth, and peaceful environment make it a uniquely attractive destination for both domestic and international travelers.

Despite its strengths, stakeholders believe that Jammu has remained in the shadows of tourism campaigns dominated by the Kashmir Valley. They are now urging the Prime Minister to give Jammu its due recognition on the national stage.

“We humbly request the Hon’ble Prime Minister to kindly highlight the immense tourism potential of the Jammu region in his upcoming address,” said Rajesh Gupta, President of Tourism Federation Jammu. “A mention from his platform would inspire immense pride among the people and open new avenues of economic and cultural development.”

Rajesh Gupta, reinforced the call, emphasizing that a Prime Ministerial endorsement could “transform the region's tourism landscape and attract national and global interest.”

The appeal is supported by several key industry groups, including the Associations of Domestic Tour Operators Jammu, Jammu Association of Tour Operators, Jammu Kashmir Ladakh Tourism Development Cooperative, Association of Religious Tour Operators (Katra), Bhaderwah Patnitop Travel Trade Association, Adventure Tour Operator Association of Jammu, and the Shri Raghunath Ji Corridor Vikas Council.

As the tourism stakeholders unite in their appeal, all eyes are on the Prime Minister’s address, with hopes that Jammu’s vibrant and diverse tourism story will finally take center stage.

05/06/2025

Kashmir Concern and Rotary Club of Kashmir Mark World Environment Day with Massive Chinar Plantation Drive

Srinagar, June 5: In a resounding celebration of World Environment Day, Kashmir Concern in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Kashmir organized a large-scale Chinar plantation drive across Srinagar, reinforcing their commitment to environmental sustainability and cultural heritage.

The event was led by MLA Lal Chowk, Jinab Ahsan Pradesi, who served as Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, Pradesi reflected on the profound bond between Kashmiris and the iconic Chinar tree, often hailed as the "Royal Tree of Kashmir." He called for collective ecological responsibility, urging citizens to “rise above ceremonies and embrace environmental stewardship as a way of life.”

Kashmir Concern Chairman Dr. Touseef Ahmed emphasized that symbolic acts alone are not enough. “Preserving the Chinar means preserving our identity. Let this day be a reminder that our commitment to the environment must translate into consistent action—through awareness, regulation, and direct participation,” he said.

Peer Imtiyaz-ul-Hassan, President of Batamaloo Traders Association (BTA), was also present on the occasion and expressed solidarity with the cause. He lauded the initiative as a model of collaborative activism and stressed the need for sustained youth engagement in ecological preservation efforts.

The drive witnessed active participation from concerned citizens, youth volunteers, and green activists who planted Chinar saplings along key sites in Srinagar. Organizers said the initiative aims not only to replenish green cover but also to revive a deeper appreciation for Kashmir’s environmental and cultural assets.

Both Kashmir Concern and the Rotary Club of Kashmir reiterated their resolve to continue such initiatives year-round, combining grassroots activism with policy advocacy to protect the Valley’s fragile ecosystem.

As the last Chinar was planted under a clear June sky, the message was loud and clear: Kashmir’s green legacy is worth fighting for.

05/06/2025

KCCI Welcomes Katra-Srinagar Rail Link, Calls It a Catalyst for Kashmir’s Economic Growth

Prez. Javid Tenga Calls for Direct Srinagar-Delhi Trains and Dedicated Freight Services

Srinagar, June 5: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has hailed the inauguration of the Katra-Srinagar rail link as a historic and transformative moment for Jammu and Kashmir, with KCCI President Javid Ahmed Tenga calling it a “game-changer” that will redefine connectivity, commerce, and convenience in the region.

Javid, who has long advocated for improved infrastructure to catalyze Kashmir’s economic potential, said the direct rail link — set to be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 6 — marks a major leap forward in the Valley’s developmental journey.

“This is more than just a rail line; it is a lifeline. It opens up a future of possibilities for tourism, trade, and logistics,” he stated.

Highlighting the long-standing challenges faced by commuters and businesses due to the vulnerability of the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway, Javid noted that the new rail link offers a safe, reliable, and all-weather transport alternative.

“This development will ease the hardships of daily travel, reduce supply disruptions, and offer vital support to our fragile logistics chain,” he said.

Commending the efforts of the Prime Minister and the Central Government for completing this vital infrastructure project, Javid emphasized that the rail corridor would bring down travel time, cut operational costs, and serve as a vital engine of growth for Jammu and Kashmir’s key economic sectors.

Looking ahead, Javid expressed strong optimism about the introduction of direct passenger trains from Srinagar to Jammu and Delhi, saying such connectivity would “significantly enhance long-distance travel and strengthen Kashmir’s integration with the rest of the country.”

He also made a strong pitch for the launch of dedicated cargo services, stressing that freight trains are essential to unlocking the Valley’s true economic potential.

“From apples to handicrafts, Kashmir has world-class products — what we need now is world-class logistics. Cargo trains will empower our farmers, artisans, and traders by making nationwide markets more accessible, efficient, and profitable,” Javid asserted.

He added that improved freight connectivity will also enable the timely import of essential goods and raw materials into Kashmir, bolstering local manufacturing and reducing production bottlenecks.

Reaffirming KCCI’s commitment to regional development, Javid Tenga called for continued investment in transportation infrastructure.

“This rail link is not an end — it is a beginning. We urge the government to continue expanding and modernizing our connectivity network to ensure inclusive and sustainable growth across Jammu and Kashmir,” he concluded.

05/06/2025

India Could Reassert Rights Over Chhamb as Pakistan Discards 1972 Pact

Khawaja Asif Calls Shimla Accord a 'Dead Document' Amid Escalating Tensions

Pakistan Discards Shimla Agreement After Indian Strikes; India May Reassert Claim Over Chhamb

Srinagar, June 5: Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has announced that the 1972 Shimla Agreement between India and Pakistan is no longer valid, calling it a "dead document" during a televised interview. This follows India’s recent airstrikes under Operation Sindoor targeting terrorist camps inside Pakistan, launched in response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack.

Khawaja Asif said the situation between the two countries now resembles the post-1948 landscape and referred to the Line of Control as merely a "ceasefire line." He also hinted at Pakistan shifting its Kashmir policy from bilateral engagement to raising the issue on international platforms.

The announcement marks a major shift in Pakistan’s stance. Previously, Islamabad had placed the Shimla Agreement in suspension after India paused the Indus Waters Treaty. Asif now claims the agreement is entirely void.

However, this move could have unintended consequences for Pakistan. Under the Shimla Agreement, India had agreed to Pakistan’s control over the Chhamb sector in Jammu and Kashmir, which Pakistan captured during the 1971 war. Prior to that, Chhamb was acknowledged as Indian territory under the 1949 Ceasefire Agreement and was briefly reclaimed by India in the 1965 conflict.

With Pakistan now officially disowning the Shimla Agreement, India may argue that the territorial concession made in 1972 no longer holds. This could reopen the claim to Chhamb, currently under Pakistani control and renamed Iftikharabad, where many displaced families had migrated to retain their Indian identity.

Moreover, India had secured control of the Chorbat Valley and four other villages through the same agreement—territories now part of Ladakh. Pakistan’s unilateral withdrawal from the Shimla framework could thus undermine its position on multiple fronts, weakening its claims on Kashmir while potentially strengthening India’s strategic and legal case.

05/06/2025

Security Tightened Across J&K Ahead of PM Modi’s Landmark Visit to Katra

Development projects worth ₹46,000 crore to be inaugurated, including historic Kashmir rail link

Jammu, June 5 – A high-level multi-tier security apparatus has been activated across Jammu and Kashmir ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit on Friday. This marks his first visit to the Union Territory since the launch of Operation Sindoor — India’s counteroffensive following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in April that claimed 26 lives, including tourists.

PM Modi will inaugurate the long-awaited 272-kilometre Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Railway Line (USBRL), a historic infrastructure project that connects the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India through a seamless, all-weather railway corridor. Among the engineering marvels being unveiled are the iconic Chenab Rail Bridge — the world’s highest railway arch bridge — and India’s first cable-stayed railway bridge, Anji Khad.

At Katra, the spiritual base camp for Vaishno Devi pilgrims, Modi will dedicate multiple developmental and infrastructure projects worth over ₹46,000 crore to the nation. These include two new Vande Bharat Express trains linking Katra to Srinagar, a significant boost to pilgrimage and tourism in the region.

The USBRL project — a feat of engineering with 36 tunnels and 943 bridges — has been executed at a cost of around ₹43,780 crore. It is being hailed as a game-changer for the socio-economic landscape of Jammu and Kashmir.

In addition to the railway projects, the Prime Minister will also lay the foundation stone for key road and health infrastructure including:

Widening of Rafiabad–Kupwara road and the Shopian Bypass (NH-701 & NH-444), collectively worth over ₹1,952 crore.

Two new flyovers at Sangrama (NH-1) and Bemina (NH-44) to ease traffic congestion in Srinagar.

Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Institute of Medical Excellence at Katra, the first medical college in Reasi, with an investment of ₹350 crore.

With the Prime Minister’s visit deemed a high-risk event, a comprehensive security plan has been executed involving the police, army, paramilitary, and intelligence agencies. Surveillance drones, anti-drone systems, and advanced monitoring tools have been deployed. Intelligence-based raids and area domination operations have intensified, especially around suspected Over Ground Workers and border regions.

Traffic diversions and temporary road closures around the Katra rally venue are likely on Friday, with police advising the public to follow updates for alternate routes.

The culmination of the USBRL project and associated developmental works is seen as a significant milestone in India’s infrastructure journey and a strategic leap forward in connecting Kashmir with the heart of the nation.

04/06/2025

Putin Vows Response to Ukrainian Airfield Attacks in Call with Trump

Trump says Iran Must Decide on Nukes Quickly, Putin May Assist

Srinagar, June 05: Former U.S. President Donald J. Trump has revealed details of a recent one hour and fifteen-minute phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which the two leaders discussed escalating tensions involving Ukraine and Iran.

According to Trump, the call focused on the recent Ukrainian strikes on Russian docked aircraft and broader military engagements between the two sides. He described the exchange as constructive, though not one that would result in immediate peace. “President Putin did say, and very strongly, that he will have to respond to the recent attack on the airfields,” Trump said.

The conversation also centered around Iran’s nuclear ambitions. Trump emphasized his firm stance that Iran must not be allowed to possess a nuclear weapon, a position he claims Putin agreed with. He added that time is running out for Iran to make a clear decision, accusing the country of “slowwalking” its response on the matter.

Trump noted that President Putin expressed willingness to engage in talks with Iran and potentially assist in reaching a swift resolution. “It is my opinion that Iran has been slowwalking their decision… and we will need a definitive answer in a very short period of time,” Trump said.

The former president’s statement adds a new dimension to ongoing geopolitical tensions and suggests back-channel diplomacy remains active despite current global divides.

04/06/2025

Sajad Lone accuses NC of 'Only Going After Kashmiris,' Promises evidence of corruption

Supports KP Reservation but questions PDP's 'Convenient' timing

Srinagar, June 4: J&K Peoples Conference President and MLA Handwara Sajad Gani Lone on Wednesday lashed out at National Conference and its current administration, accusing them of targeting Kashmiris and running a system steeped in “lies, inaction, and brazen corruption.”

Addressing a press conference, Lone said the National Conference has no power to impact anyone except the common Kashmiri. “They are going after the very people who voted for them. And those who didn’t, they are being treated with callousness. This is exactly what we expected from them,” Lone remarked.

He went on to cite rampant corruption and inefficiency in the current setup. “We will begin collecting evidence, Insha’Allah. They have done no work till date—just lie after lie. Where is the government? What have they delivered to the people?” he questioned.

Taking a swipe at the frequent official review meetings, he said, “They’ve been holding these meetings for eons here—only to sip tea and eat kebabs. In our time, too, these review meetings meant nothing. Do you think Germany, Japan, UK or US became first-world nations through review meetings? It takes hard work, day and night, to build a nation.”

He also raised concerns about over-centralisation of power in the Chief Minister’s office. “The CM is handling 28 to 30 departments alone. Is he even human? If ministers can’t be appointed out of fear or indecision, what is the point of being in power?” He criticised the system still being run by commissioner-secretaries as it was decades ago, asking, “Why did people even vote if nothing was meant to change and ministers were only meant to stay busy with transfers?”

On the recent demand by PDP for Kashmiri Pandit reservation in the Assembly, Lone supported the idea but questioned the timing and intent. “Yes, Kashmiri Pandits must get political reservation. They are part of Kashmir and must not feel alienated. But why didn’t PDP or Congress act when they were in power for 30-40 years? This selective remembrance of KP issues when out of power is hypocrisy. The same applies to human rights. Those who violated them now pretend to be their defenders—it’s a cruel joke.”

Lone also expressed concern over the ongoing termination of government employees, calling it a damaging and repetitive tactic. “This has been happening for 30 years under every regime. It creates unrest. Targeting Kashmiris must stop. Until Kashmiris are at peace, peace in South Asia will remain a distant dream.”

Highlighting the economic downturn, he said, “Economic activity in Kashmir has come to a halt. There’s a dire need to rebuild market confidence and revive the economy.”

Commenting on the escalating conflict rhetoric in the region, Lone concluded, “This war-like situation taught us one lesson: If Kashmiris are kept happy, only then can peace in South Asia be a reality.”

04/06/2025

MP Ruhullah claims RSS-BJP ecosystem responsible for fueling hate against Kashmiris

Says people of Kargil want reunion with J&K, Not Union Territory status

Srinagar, June 4: Member of Parliament Aga Syed Ruhullah has come down heavily on what he termed a “systematic campaign” by right-wing forces aimed at vilifying and isolating the people of Kashmir. Speaking out against recent incidents across various Indian cities, Ruhullah accused organizations like the RSS and BJP of engineering an "ecosystem of hostility" designed to paint Kashmiris as the perpetual other.

“In places like Dehradun, Delhi, and Chandigarh, Kashmiris have faced assault and harassment—not by coincidence, but as part of a coordinated effort,” he said. “Being a real Kashmiri is now treated as a threat. Our identity, our rights—everything is under siege.”

Ruhullah also questioned the opaque dismissal of several government employees in recent months. “The government owes the public an explanation. Who authorized these terminations? On what legal basis?” he asked, urging greater transparency and accountability.

He further expressed frustration over the delay in releasing Constituency Development Funds (CDF) to MLAs, warning that the freeze is stalling crucial developmental projects across the region.

Turning his attention to Ladakh, the Srinagar MP said the concerns of Kargil continue to be ignored in the national discourse. “From Kargil to Leh, there is a growing demand to be reconnected with the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. People want their pre-2019 rights and status restored,” he stated.

Labeling this not just a regional grievance but a shared sentiment across the Union Territories, Ruhullah urged the central government to end the politics of alienation. “The time has come to restore trust, dignity, and rights. New Delhi must listen to the people of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh.”

04/06/2025

J&K Government Hikes DA to 55% for Employees, Arrears to Be Disbursed in June

Srinagar, June 4: Jammu and Kashmir government has announced a revision in the Dearness Allowance (DA) for its employees, increasing it from 53% to 55% of the basic pay. This enhancement is effective from January 1, 2025.

As per the official order, the revised DA is applicable to all government employees drawing salaries under the 7th Pay Commission structure. The term 'Basic Pay' refers to the salary drawn in the designated pay matrix level and excludes any other additional pay such as special allowances.

The arrears accrued from January to May 2025 due to this increase will be disbursed in cash along with the salary for June 2025. From June onwards, the revised DA will be reflected as part of the monthly salary.

Additionally, the order specifies that DA payments involving fractions of 50 paise or more will be rounded up to the next rupee, while amounts less than 50 paise will be ignored.

This step is expected to bring financial relief to thousands of government employees across Jammu and Kashmir.

04/06/2025

Srinagar Youth Dies Under Suspicious Circumstances in Delhi, Family Alleges Foul Play

Srinagar, June 4: In a deeply unsettling incident, 30-year-old Zubair Ahmed Bhat, a resident of Sehyar Ali Kadal in Srinagar, died under mysterious circumstances in New Delhi, prompting his grieving family to demand a thorough investigation.

Zubair’s body arrived in Srinagar this morning, a day after Delhi Police reportedly received a call from locals about a man found injured in a public park. “He had suffered a severe head injury and was rushed to the hospital, where he later passed away,” said an official familiar with the case. A postmortem has been conducted, and inquest proceedings are underway.

The family, however, contests the version being floated. According to them, Zubair was perfectly healthy and had recovered from past migraine issues. He had been traveling frequently to Delhi for work-related assignments. On Thursday afternoon, around 4 PM, they lost all contact with him. Hours later, they were informed of his sudden death.

“We have access to screenshots and messages that suggest he was assaulted in the locality where he was staying,” said a close relative. “This wasn’t just a random incident—something happened to him, and we want answers.”

Local police in Srinagar have assured the family of full cooperation. “We’ve told them to approach us if they have any doubts or need support. We’ll do whatever is needed to assist them in seeking justice,” said a police official.

The shocking demise has sent ripples across the local community, with growing calls for a fair and transparent investigation. The family insists that justice must prevail and the truth behind Zubair’s untimely death must come to light.

04/06/2025

Roots in Kashmir's Rahul Mahanoori Questions Legitimacy of Interfaith Event That 'Ignored Kashmiri Pandits'

Amit Raina Warns of 'Deliberate Erasure' of Pandit Identity & Inclusion of Separatist Voices

Srinagar, June 04: Roots in Kashmir, a prominent Kashmiri Pandit advocacy group, has raised serious concerns over the recently held Interfaith Dialogue organized by the Anjuman Interfaith Dialogue Chapter. The organization has criticized what it calls a "deeply flawed and exclusionary exercise" that, according to them, reinforces the continued marginalization of Kashmiri Pandits and the broader Hindu and Buddhist communities of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.

Rahul Mahanoori, a senior activist with Roots in Kashmir, questioned the very foundation of the event.
“An interfaith dialogue in Kashmir that excludes its aboriginal community—the Kashmiri Pandits—and offers no representation to Hindus and Buddhists, the two other major religious groups in the region, undermines its legitimacy,” Mahanoori said. “It raises fundamental questions about the intent behind such gatherings.”

Echoing similar concerns, Amit Raina, spokesperson for the group, pointed to the presence of political figures with separatist leanings.
“The participation of leaders like Mirwaiz and Waheed Parra, known for their ideological stance, only confirms our apprehensions,” Raina stated. “This was never about interfaith harmony. It was about consolidating Islamic narratives while systematically erasing the Kashmiri Pandit identity.”

Roots in Kashmir described the event as a facade, suggesting that its true purpose was to strengthen internal cohesion among select Muslim factions rather than promote broader communal understanding.

“The ethnic cleansing of our community is not just a chapter of the past,” Raina emphasized. “It remains a lived reality, and such selective events only deepen that wound.”

The organization has called for genuine, inclusive dialogue—one that respects the historical and cultural contributions of all communities in Jammu & Kashmir and seeks real reconciliation, not political theatrics.

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