Friday, June 29, 2012

KHANYAR CHALO MARCH FOLIED, ER HILAL WAR INJURED

Srinagar, June 29 (Only Kashmir) : Police resorted to heavy lathicharge in Maisuma today to disperse the People’s Political Party (PPP) activists who had assembled at the historic Maisuma Chowk to take out a procession to Dastgeer Sahab, Khanyar where they were supposed to offer Friday prayers.
Defying curfew and  a heavy security build up, PPP Chairman Hilal War broke the cordon along with his associates and started marching towards the gutted shrine. However, police swung into action and stopped the procession, resorting to lathicharge and violence which injured dozens of PPP activists and injured Mr. War. Police had to face stiff resistance from a highly charged mob that was unwilling to budge and seemed adamant on making the Khanyar Chalo call successful. Amid violent chaos, people kept yelling pro-freedom and pro-Islam slogans.
 Mr. War was  forcibly taken by the police and paramilitary forces to his residence and put under house The  Maisuma and adjoining areas were converted into a battle ground by the deployment of heavy contingent of Police and paramilitary forces but  caravan of PPP freedom activists led by its chairman, ,Hilal Ahmad War were succeeded in defying the curfew  orders . The Freedom activists of PPP were Chanting slogans …Chalo Chalo Khanyar Chalo…… We want Freedom...... Mujrimoon ko Paish karo  and Islam zindabad.
It is pertinent to mention here that 28th and 29th strike call coupled with Khanyar Chalo call was given jointly by Grand Mufti of Kashmir and PPP Chairman.
The PPP Chairman has strongly condemned the police action terming it barbaric and an act of highhandedness against the followers of Islam. “Today’s police action is barbaric and it was totally uncalled for,” said War adding “It was a peaceful gathering and police had no reason to resort to the kind of violence they did. Police actions like these will force the youths of Kashmir to have a rethink on resorting to peaceful means of showing their dissent.” War said unleashing violence against people can force the youths to shun peaceful means and resort again to militancy and other means of violence. “Youths are being forced to think that peaceful means can’t work in Kashmir,” said War, “If the government thinks it can get away with hurting the sentiments of people and traumatising them, it is living in fool’s paradise.” (OK)

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Thursday, June 28, 2012

KASHMIR REMAINED CALM FOR THE FOUTH CONSECUTIVE DAY, CM ORDERS RESTORATION OF SHRINE

Srinagar June 28 (Only Kashmir): Srinagar Kashmir remained calm on Thursday even as normal life was thrown out of gear for the fourth consecutive day after a mysterious blaze destroyed the revered Dastgeer Sahib shrine in Khanyar Srinagar.
Crying "conspiracy" behind the incident, government-appointed grand mufti or chief cleric of the state, Mufti Bashiruddin Ahmad, and Pro Freedom Leader Hilal Ahmad War Chairman Peoples Political Party has called for a strike and protest march on Friday.
The state government has imposed Section 144, preventing assembly of four or more people in most parts of the old city for the past three days after stone-pelting incidents on Monday in the aftermath of the blaze.
Meanwhile Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Thursday ordered for immediate restoration of gutted Shrine of Peer-e-Dastgeer (RA) at Khanyar strictly as per its heritage characteristic.
“The restoration of the revered Shrine should be strictly based on its heritage characteristic”, he told the Waqaf Board at a high level meeting he chaired here to discuss measures for restoration of Shrine.The Head of the INTACH, J&K Chapter, Mohammad Saleem Beg presented the images, photographs and digital documentation of the heritage structure of Peer-e-Dastgeer Shrine in the meeting preserved by the INTACH.
 The Chief Minister expressed satisfaction over the heritage documentation of the Shrine preserved by the INTACH. He said that this documentation could provide required basis for restorating the Shrine as per its original heritage structure.The Chief Minister also directed the Waqaf Board to immediately notify the measures and put in place befitting mechanism to safeguard the revered Shrines in the State. Meanwhile the Restoration Plan of the revered Peer-e-Dastgeer (RA) Shrine was also discussed with the Sajjad-a-Nisheen of the Shrine Syed Khalid Geelani.The Chief Minister said that the valuable suggestions and view points of Sajjad-a-Nisheen and Management Committee as also of the experts in heritage restoration subject should be factored in the process of restoration of the Shrine to its pristine glory. (OK)

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CABINET APPROVES J&K HINDU MARRIAGE REGISTRATION RULES


Srinagar, June 28 (Only Kashmir): The State Cabinet which met here today under the Chairmanship of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah approved placing of the Draft of J&K Hindu Marriage Registration Rules, 2012 and the Draft Jammu and Kashmir marriage Laws (Amendment) Bill 2012 on the website of the General Administration Department (GAD) for one month for eliciting public comments. It also accorded administrative approval for construction of residential flats for employees at Pampore. (OK)

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Wednesday, June 27, 2012

HILAL WAR, MOULANA BASHIRUDDIN CALLS FOR KHANYAR CHALO ON JUNE 29

Srinagar, June 26 (Only Kashmir): Grand Mufti of Kashmir Mufti Bashiruddin and People’s Political Party ( PPP) Chairman, Engineer Hilal Ahmad War have addressed a joint press Conference has urged people to observe complete Kashmir Bandh on Friday June 29 and march towards shrine of Peer Dastageer Sahab at Khanyar.
“After assembling at the historic shrine, pro-freedom leaders and ullema will throw light on the facts behind the tragedy, and conspiracies hatched by different groups”, a statement from the party read.
War termed the attack as a part of bigger conspiracy. He further said the conspirators would not be allowed to succeed in their nefarious designs.
War also condemned the attack on Shabir Ahmad Shah and others near the Shrine of Dastageer Sahab, Khanyar.
Grand Mufti and Chariman of Muslim Perosnal Law Board, Moulana Bashiruddin has also appealed people to march towards the Dastgeer Sahab Shrine on June 29. The Grand Mufti held the government and the Muslim Wakf Board equally responsible for negligence which led to gutting of the revered shrine.
Calling upon the probe committee set up by the government to come out with its report within two weeks time, the grand mufti appealed people not to give an ear to rumours spread by certain mischievous people.
Meanwhile chairman of his Hurriyat faction Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has also spported the “Khanyar Chalo” call to be held on June 29. (OK)

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Tuesday, June 26, 2012

CHIEF MINISTER OMAR ABDULLAH VISITS DASTGEER SAHIB (RA) SHRINE

Srinagar, June 26 (Only Kashmir): After cutting short his visit to the United Kingdom, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah arrived here today and straight drove to the gutted Shrine of Peer-e-Dastgeer Sheikh Abdul Qadir Jeelani (RA) at Khanyar for an on the spot inspection and assessment of the quantum of damage.
The Chief Minister who was accompanied by the Minister for Rural Development, Ali Mohammad Sagar, Advisor to the Chief Minister, Mubarak Gul, Minister of State for Home, Nasir Aslam Wani , Political Advisor to Chief Minister, Devender Singh Rana, Principal Secretary Home, B. R. Sharma, Director General Police, K. Rajindra and Vice Chairman, Muslim Waqaf Board,  M. Y. Qadri interacted with locals and the management of the revered Shrine.
Later talking to Only Kashmir, Omar Abdullah said that the Holy Shrine will be restored to its original glory and the best possible expertise engaged in the process of restoration.
The Chief Minister appealed to the people to maintain peace and exercise restraint and exhibit highest degree of tolerance. He said the entire State is anguished and is in a state of mourning. He urged the people of the State to beware of divisive forces whose sole objective is to disrupt peace and harmony.  “All of us who regard and respect the divine and revered Shrine should stand for peace and tolerance”, he asserted. (OK)

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Monday, June 25, 2012

BLACK DAY FOR WHOLE KASHMIRIYAT: FIRE INCIDENT AT SHRINE OF PEER-I-PEERAN GOUSUL-AZAM DASTGEER SAHIB(RA)


Srinagar June 25 (Only Kashmir): The Sufi shrine of Hazrat Sheikh Syed Abdul Qadir Jeelani (RA), populary known as Peer Dastgeer Sahib, in Khanyar in downtown Srinagar, was gutted in a fire this morning. The fire started from the roof top of the shrine at 6:30 am soon after people completed morning prayers. They are still trying to determine the cause. 
The Sufi shrine was made of wood, has been completely damaged however the holy relics and other sacred valuables were retrieved safely. 
“The holy relic was kept in a fire/burglary proof vault inside the shrine. The holy relic is safe and has been retrieved," a senior official of the state government” told Only Kashmir
The four hundred year old shrine of the 11th century saint is the nerve centre of spirituality in Kashmir. The shrine is equally revered by all faiths and its damage in the fire has caused deep anguish and shock amongst people. This was evident after women were seen on streets wailing and beating their chests, as they saw fire engulfing the shrine. 
Tension, however, continued in Srinagar city in the wake of the devastating fire that destroyed the over 300-year-old wooden shrine in the Khanyar area. At least 20 people many of them policemen were injured in the clashes. Six fire tenders and one ambulance were also damaged by angry mobs who blamed fire service officials for reaching late. 
The four hundred year old shrine of the 11th century saint is the nerve centre of spirituality in Kashmir. Interestingly, the saint never visited Kashmir and the holy relic was brought here by an Afghan governor, Abdullah Khan, 337 years ago. (OK)

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Saturday, June 23, 2012

RAJA PERVEZ ASHRAF IS THE NEW PRIME MINISTER OF PAKISTAN


Chief Minister Omar Abdullah welcomed the appointment of Raja Pervez Ashraf
Islamabad June 22 (Only Kashmir): After disqualification of two persons Raza Gilani & Makhdoom Shahabuddin PPP nominated candidate for Prime Ministership of Pakistan the national assembly of Pakistan rubber stamped Raja Parvaiz Ashraf's appointment by 211 votes in the 342-member lower house of parliament. Raja Pervez Ashraf is declared to be elected as prime minister of the Islamic republic of Pakistan," speaker Fehmida Mirza announced. 
President Asif Ali Zardari will now hope that Ashraf can form a cabinet able to see through the government's five-year term in office, due to expire in February 2013, without the need for early elections.
But Ashraf is a controversial choice. Currently fighting a corruption case from his tenure as water and power minister, he has also been blamed for much of the government's inability to resolve a disastrous energy crisis.
The change in premier is likely to ease little of Pakistan's myriad problems, not least appalling power cuts that enrage millions or a stalemate in US relations that have led to a seven-month blockade on NATO supplies into Afghanistan.
Ashraf will also come under immediate pressure from the Supreme Court to write to Swiss authorities, asking them to reopen investigations into Zardari.
Meanwhile National Conference President and Union Minister for renewable energy Dr. Farooq Abdullah, Party working president and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today welcomed the appointment of Raja Pervez Ashraf as the new Prime Minister of Pakistan. (OK)

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Tuesday, June 19, 2012

PAKISTAN PRIME MINISTER YOUSUF RAZA GILANI 'DISQUALIFIED'


Islamabad, June 19 Only Kashmir
Pakistan Supreme Court today declared Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani ineligible to hold office and said he stood disqualified since April 26 when he was convicted and sentenced for contempt. 
The apex court also asked President Asif Ali Zardari to play constitutional role for continuation of democracy. 
TV channels here reported the court has also ordered Zardari to select a new prime minister. 
The verdict also states that the Election Commission of Pakistan (EC) should issue a notification regarding Gilani's ineligibility. 
The verdict is a huge setback for Gilani, 60 who will no longer be a member of parliament. 
A three-member bench, comprising Chief Justice Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry, Justice Jawwad S Khawaja and Justice Khilji Arif Hussain heard a set of constitutional petitions challenging National Assembly Speaker Fehmida Mirza's ruling over the reference against Prime Minister Gilani. 
The bench had been hearing a set of petitions filed by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), the Pakistan Tehrik-i-Insaf (PTI), Azhar Chaudhry advocate and others challenging the speaker's ruling of May 24 over the qualification issue. 
Gilani's lawyer, Fawad Chaudhry said only Parliament could dismiss the prime minister. (OK)


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JKYJA CONDEMNS PCI DELEGATES’ DISCRIMINATORY ATTITUDE


Srinagar 19 June (Only Kashmir): The Jammu & Kashmir Young Journalists Association (JKYJA) in an emergency meeting presided over by Ajaz Ahmad War (President, JKYJA), today expressed a strong displeasure over Press council of India’s discriminatory attitude in meeting just a selective bunch of journalists in Kashmir. A PCI team that is on a four day visit to the valley met a handful of journalists only while ignoring many scribes and media organizations of the state. PCI did not even bother to call upon the JKYJA, the single largest journalist body representing young journalists of Kashmir.
Pertinently, the Young journalists of Kashmir are currently facing tough times on account of lack of financial stability and safety concerns. The young journalists have been since the beginning of the ongoing turmoil facing multi faceted problems in the shape of meager financial resources and state wrath especially whenever they desired to express their constitutional right of ‘freedom of expression’.
As a matter of fact, on one hand the Press Council of India had stated its motive to look into the problems faced by journalists especially their safety concerns and on the other hand has created a paradox by ignoring the young journalists body (JKYJA) which happens to be the organization of the real foot soldiers of journalism.
Ironically, the meeting between some selected journalists and PCI was limited to interaction on non- serious issues like advertisements, whereas journalism happens to be much more than advertisement especially in a turmoil zone.
The Jammu & Kashmir Young Journalists Association (JKYJA) has strongly condemned the manner in which the reputed organization like Press Council of India has conducted its visit to Kashmir which is completely lopsided and prejudiced so far.
All the members including President JKYJA have expressed their dissatisfaction with Press Council of India (PCI) in this regard especially considering the fact that organization is bestowed with duty of drawing out ethics for journalists.

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Wednesday, June 13, 2012

RESISTANCE LEADERSHIP OF KASHMIR ALMOST A PERFECT PICTURE OF HYPOCRISY


Srinagar 13 June 2012 Only Kashmir
Dubious standards are marring the activism & pro-freedom leadership in the conflict ridden Kashmir. The pro-freedom leaders and activists drawing honorariums and occupying government positions is a known reality in our part of the world. Pertinently, a large number of examples are there in Kashmir wherein after retirement and serving government interests the individuals join the pro-freedom politics and activism.
According to some quarters, these double standards prevalent in the civil society, activism, and pro-freedom leadership are adversely impacting the basic fundamentals of resistance movement.
On the other hand of the spectrum, during the Swadeshi movement, part of the Indian independence movement and the developing Indian nationalism, was an economic strategy aimed at removing the British Empire from power and improving economic conditions in India by following the principles of swadeshi (self-sufficiency), which had some success. Strategies of the Swadeshi movement involved boycotting British products and the revival of domestic products and production processes.
While in Kashmir a number of those who claim to be associated with resistance politics or activism are through their deeds a picture perfect portrayal of hypocrisy. Drawing all the monetary benefits and other incentives from the authorities and state machinery a large number of so called leaders and self styled intellectuals boast of high moral standards and day in and day out brag of enlightened concepts like freedom and liberty. (Source: KMW)

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Tuesday, June 12, 2012

URDU TRANSLATION OF KALAM-I-SHEIKH-UL-ALAM (RA) RELEASED IN CENTRAL UNIVERSITY KASHMIR


Srinagar, June  12 (Only Kashmir):- Urdu Translation of Kalam Sheikh-ul-Alam (RA) authored by Prof. Ghulam Mohammad Shad was released at a simple but impressive function at Central University Kashmir auditorium here today.Vice Chancellor Central University Prof. Abdul Wahid Qureshi presided over the function whilppe as Prof. Ghulam Rasool Malik was the guest of honour on the occasion.Several scholars presented their papers on the book, which include Dr. Nazir Azad, Ghulam Nabi Atash and Prof. G.R. Malik.Earlier, in his welcome address Registrar, Central University, Kashmir Dr. Abdul Gani appreciated the work of Prof. Shad in translating the ‘Shrukh’ of Sheikh-ul-Alam (RA).He said that the efforts put in by Prof. Shad shall be remembered for generations to come and the readers of this book especially people from other languages will be blessed by the teachings of Islam through Kalam-i-Sheikh-ul-Alam (RA).Dr. Abdul Gani said that by organizing the function, Central University as a whole feels blessed as the work done by Prof. Shad on Sheikh-ul-Alam (RA) is commendable and appreciable.Prof. Bashr Bashir, Prof. Aziz Hajni, Prof. F.A. Nika, Prof. Riyaz Rufai and several poets, researchers, academicians, scholars and students attended the function.Vice Chancellor Central University, Kashmir Prof.  Abdul Wahid Qureshi in his address lauded the work of translation of Kalam-i-Sheikh-ul-Alam (RA) by Prof. G.M.Shad and said that Prof. Shad is master of several languages which include Urdu, Kashmiri, Persian, Arabic and English. He said Shad Sahib devoted his whole life for preaching truth through his commendable works and authored several books which became popular in literally circles of State. He said that Kashmiris owe a lot to Sheikh-ul-Alam for his untiring efforts to popularize ‘Tawheed’ and ‘Risalat’ in nook and corner of the state. He thanked Almighty who grifted us such a great saint who was born in ‘Qoumo’ village of Kashmir Valley blessed Kashmiris with all his bounties.Prof. Abdul Wahid in his address stressed upon the scholars of various universities, Cultural Academy and other institutions who promots literally works to popularize the teachings of Sheikh-ul-Alam so that the new generations would be acquainted with such great saints and their preaching’s. (OK)

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Saturday, June 9, 2012

PROPHET MUHAMMAD (SAW) BLESSING FOR ENTIRE HUMANITY : PROF TALAT AHMAD


Srinagar, June 09 (Only Kashmir): A one –day national level Sirah symposium on the theme “Prophet Muhammad (SAW) the educator par excellence” organised by Shah-I-Hamdan Institute of Islamic Studies was held at University of Kashmir here on Saturday in which scholars within and outside the state presented their scholarly views.
While presiding over the inaugural session of the national symposium Vice Chancellor University of Kashmir Prof Talat said that the teachings and revelations of Qu`ran and the discoveries of science are in agreement with each other and both can be interrelated in order to have a better and clear understanding of the worldly phenomenon and other cosmic realities .
As a geologist and from what has been proved by research I know that deep down inside the big mountain there are certain structures which create some sort of pressure and hold the mountains together which in geology is referred as isostasy. And this is something very similar to what has been mentioned in Quran about the structure of mountains.”
Stressing on the need to refer to the guidance of Quran and teachings of Prophet (SAW) Prof Talat said that Prophet (SAW) was sent as a blessing for the entire humanity who made education obligatory for both men and women so that they understand the real meaning of life by seeking knowledge and education so as to enlighten their lives and the lives of others.
While observing that the Shah-I-Hamadan institute of Islamic studies should have some sort of mandate to work and research in collaboration with science departments of the University on various themes where both science and Quran are interrelated Prof Talat said “This is one of the few universities across India which has the unique distinction of being blessed with one of the best Islamic studies department and an equally efficient science faculties. Therefore I suggest that the two should come together and have a detailed research and discourses in future on the various interlinks between science and teachings of Quran.”
Professor Talat assured the department of full support and reiterated that the Institute of Islamic studies will soon get a new 3-storied building once the campus at Zakura comes up.
In his remarks Vice Chancellor Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST) Prof AR Trag who was chief guest on the occasion while maintaining that as Muslims we should always be aware of the rich contribution made by our beloved Prophet (SAW) towards education said “Prophet (SAW) was indeed a teacher par excellence who taught the entire humanity the principles of humility and kindness. God asked Prophet (SAW) to read and Prophet (SAW) conveyed the same message to us that we all must read and learn from cradle to the grave.(OK)

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Friday, June 8, 2012

CHILDREN ARE OUR FUTURE: OMAR ABDULLAH


Srinagar June 07 (Only Kashmir): – Welcoming the children from 33 States and Union Territories of the Country participating in the National Camp here, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Friday told them to carry the message of love and affection from this place to the boys and girls of their States.
“Tell them about the hospitality, natural beauty and cultural richness of Jammu and Kashmir and make them visit this place alongwith you again and again”, he told the young boys and girls while interacting with them at the camp at Tagore Hall here this morning.
The camp has been organized by the Indian Council of Children Welfare, New Delhi with the collaboration of State Government Departments. More than 250 boys and girls from 33 States and Union Territories are participating in the National Camp.
Terming children future of the Country, the Chief Minister said that their proper grooming, inculcating the spirit of public service, self-help and confidence along with academic excellence is imperative to cultivate capable human resource to lead the Country ably. He said that holding of such camps provide young boys and girls opportunity to know about the cultural diversity, educational status, geography, historical background, economic activities, occupation of people and other related subjects.
Omar Abdullah welcomed the organizing of National Camp at Srinagar and said that holding of such camps here be made a regular feature. He also appreciated the participation of J&K boys and girls in the camp and the interaction of participants with the students of various institutions of the State.
On the request of children for Gandola ride at Gulmarg, the Chief Minister said that Jammu and Kashmir is known for its hospitality world over. “You are not only our guests but our children, as such my office will arrange and bear the expenditure on your Gulmarg visit and Gandola ride”, he told the children amid thunderous applause.(OK)

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Tuesday, June 5, 2012

CHIEF MINISTER OMAR ABDULLAH APPROVES REVITALIZATION OF SHAHR-E-KHAS


Srinagar, June 05 (Only Kashmir): Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Tuesday approved the holistic project of revitalization of Shahr-e-Khas (Old Srinagar City) focusing on its natural, cultural, craft and built heritage. He also gave nod to the starter of the project involving Rs. 24 crore for constructing a 2 kilometre pedestrian Tourist Trail from Nawakadal to Cement Kadal (Chattabal) to develop craft bazaars, retail outlets, refreshment kiosks, production centres and other facilities. The main street will be pedestrian and if found feasible battery operated vehicles can be allowed along the street.
Taking presentation of the roadmap prepared under his directions for the holistic development of Shahr--e-Khas including promotion of craft clusters in 10 identified locations, at a high level meeting here, the Chief Minister also directed for working out a strategy for developing housing colonies for people living in congested areas of old Srinagar city.
Omar Abdullah said that the main objective of the new development concept translated into a holistic project for revitalization of Shahr-e-Khas is aimed at providing necessary succour to a large population of artisans by developing craft clusters, generating economic activities, encouraging tourist flow, developing palatable lung places and upgrading basic amenities alongwith beautification of the historic Srinagar city.
The Chief Minister said that involvement of Tourism and Housing and Urban Development Departments should be factored in the overall roadmap aimed at comprehensive development of Shahr-e-Khas and the artisans here. He stressed on dovetailing the efforts to obtain effective and meaningful results within the fixed time frame.
 The new concept for construction of Heritage Craft Tourist Trail from Nawakadal to Cement Kadal (Chattabal) and construction of River Front Craft Plaza has been derived from the existing similar heritage sites established in Muscat (Oman), New York, China (Chengdu) and Sabermati (India). The project also involves upgradation of the street pavement, covring of drains, laying of sewer lines, underground electric cabling, development of litterbins at every 200 meters, solar street lights at every 200 meters, street furniture and signages, refreshment kiosks, public conveniences, diagnostic clinics and about half dozen ghats and access points to river Jhelum.
The Chief Minister also received presentation pertaining to development of craft clusters in Jamia Masjid, Safakadal-Qamarwari, Idgah, Noorbagh, Chattabal, Soura, Zadibal, Boatpora,-Suhama and Kanchan Peerpora and directed for working out area and craft specific projects in these wards factoring in beautification, economic activities generation, heritage preservation and tourist attraction aspects adding that more areas of the old Srinagar city need to be incorporated in the overall development programme.
Speaking in the meeting, Minister for Rural Development, Ali Mohammad Sagar while lauding the Chief Minister’s keenness for revitalization and beautification of old Srinagar city alongwith generating economic activities and tourist flow in this part, said that there is need to bring Habba Kadal, Chinkral Mohalla, Fateh Kadal, Khankhahi Mohalla, Bohri Kadal, Zaina Kadal, Maharaj Gunj, Hawal, Zadibal and other core areas of Shahr-e-Khas in the overall roadmap being prepared for the development of Shahr-e-Khas.
The Chief Minister directed for incorporating all these areas in the main project adding that details for operationalizing various components of the project should be discussed with Housing and Tourism Departments to dovetail efforts. He also directed for factoring in Jammu and Kashmir Bank’s schemes for artisan development. (OK)

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Saturday, June 2, 2012

2.50 LAKH PILGRIMS REGISTER FOR AMARNATH YATRA

Srinagar June 2 (Only Kashmir): More than 2.50 lakh pilgrims have registered themselves for the forthcomingAmarnath yatra to the holy cave shrine in Jammu & Kashmir.
The number of pilgrims registered till last evening was 2.55 lakh. The quota for registration through online service as well as at 47 branches of J&K Bank has been exhausted, chief executive officer of the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) N K Chaudhury said.
Chaudhury was briefing a meeting yesterday chaired by governor N N Vohra, who is also chairman of the SASB, for reviewing arrangements for the annual pilgrimage scheduled to begin from June 25.
The board decided to release additional quota for registration through those J&K Bank branches where the earlier allotted quota has been exhausted, a spokesman of the SASB said.
"Additional quota for online registration through the website of Jammu and Kashmir Bank has also been made available," he said.
Meanwhile, fresh snowfall in upper reaches and rains in the plains have hampered the track clearance work.
Expressing concern over the inclement weather forecast for the next week, the governor directed the CEO to ensure that additional manpower is deployed to complete all tasks on a war-footing.(OK)

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Friday, June 1, 2012

MUJAHID MANZIL WILL AGAIN HUSTLE BUSTLE WITH POLITICAL ACTIVITY: OMAR ABDULLAH

Srinagar, June 1 (Only Kashmir): National Conference Working President Omar Abdullah on Friday said that Mujahid Manzil in the downtown Srinagar will be made functional, continuing the tradition of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah to conduct the weekly Friday party meetings there.
 “I will be happy the day we have such meetings at the Mujahid Manzil where Sheikh Sahib had initiated this culture into our party” working President Omar Abdullah said while addressing party workers of Srinagar district. He added that that he will personally monitor these meetings and ensure that he attends them to get feedbacks from partymen to improve the relations between the government and the party.
He said that he would direct all the party Ministers and MLA’s to participate in the Friday meeting so that better co-ordination is achieved between the grass root workers and the party high command.
The party’s working president in his Maiden speech after becoming the working president said that the party has the aim and the agenda of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah and we have to ensure its implementation
“I am a loyal soldier of the party which has the teachings of Sher-e-kashmir, he has shown us the path and I am trying to follow his footsteps” said Omar adding that “I will be successful only if you all work together in realizing the dreams of Sheikh Mohd Abdullah”
Talking about the recent cabinet meeting which was organized in one of the remotest areas of the state Omar said “Shiekh Sahib used to organize public Darbar in the remotest areas of state but it’s his teachings that I went a step further by ensuring that we take not only the cabinet but the whole government paraphernalia to the doorstep of the people”.
Accepting the demand of party workers the NC working president said that he will ensure that the party elections are conducted immediately after consultations with the senior party colleagues
“We will have the party elections very soon, I will discuss it with Nazir Sahib and people among you will be office bearers who will and should ensure that the party reaches out to the masses and highlight the party polices” said Omar
Stressing upon party leaders to highlight the policies, programmes and achievements of the NC, Omar Abdullah said that the amount of work we are or have been doing are not being projected the way it should have been with the result the opposition parties even after doing nothing take the credit of works that we have or had initiated.
“My government has taken historical steps in terms of developmental and I will ensure that we keep the momentum on, Traffic system has improved, roads are being widened, Tourist infrastructure has been improved, bridges, hospitals and almost everything is being developed on modern lines” said Omar “I am hopeful, Jammu and Kashmir will be again be a peaceful, prosperous and progressive state,” he added
 “Our adversaries are harping on false propaganda about developmental works in Srinagar city but their lies and slur have been exposed time and again” said Omar adding “after the Local Bodies election the developmental works in the cities will get a major fillip”(OK)

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