KASHMIR AND THE POLITICS OF FEAR AND INTIMIDATION

OK may be or may not be agree views expressed in this column

By: Dr Shabir Choudhry

Kashmir is not only known for its natural beauty; but was also famous for culture of tolerance, peace and co existence. All this was shattered when backed by Pakistani secret agencies culture of gun, violence, fear and intimidation was introduced in 1988/89.

As if that was not enough non Kashmiris, totally alien to Kashmiri culture and ethos, were also sent in with gun that they can impose new culture and values on people of Jammu and Kashmir.

This culture of fear and intimidation was first introduced in to the Valley of Kashmir with disastrous consequences. Anyone who opposed this was silenced irrespective of his race or religion.

Under that prevailing culture, 'liberal minded' Yasin Malik, Chairman of JKLF, also proved intolerant when highly respected journalist Tahir Mohiuldin criticised him in 'Weekly 'Chattan', and a group of JKLF members stormed his office, broke his furniture and beat him up.

Later on, this alien culture of hate and intimidation was 'exported' to other parts of Jammu and Kashmir and where ever people of Jammu and Kashmir lived, whether it was London, New York or Toronto.

Attempts were made to silence all voices which criticised those who introduced this monster of hate and advanced it for personal, ideological or material gains. I salute all those who stood their ground and spoke against this culture of violence, hatred, fear and intimidation.

Despite threats to my life, personal abuse and unfounded allegations to malign me, I have been doing my jihad against those who promoted violence, sectarianism, regionalism, tribalism and hate.

For many years I have advanced a non violent struggle, equality for all and rule of law; and how sad that now I am accused of being 'racist' and playing the 'tribal' card. I do not have a shred of racism and tribalism in me, even at that time when I was young and immature in many ways; I opposed regionalism and tribalism and always sided with the weak and poor.

I have criticised those who have harmed our struggle for united and independent Jammu and Kashmir, and continue to harm it under different slogans. And on my part no matter what people call me, I will continue with my jihad of writing against them and exposing them. This sponsored criticism of some misguided people who either don't understand the situation or are touts of those who want us to remain occupied and forcibly divided is not going to intimidate me.

It was not the first time I was under attack by face book warriors; and it won't be the last. What made difference this time was the unfortunate posts of someone using ID of 'paki power', whose agenda was to muddy the water, create confusion among Kashmiris and alienate me from my friends and colleagues.

To a large extent he was successful, as some people thought I was using this ID. Allah Almighty knows best; however, once again I say that it is not my ID and I did not use this ID. There is no need to. I am quite used to these smear campaigns against me; and know how to handle them, hence no need to use any fake ID. Allah has given me enough courage and strength of character to say spade a spade and face the consequences.

Unfortunately some of my colleagues and friends were also swayed by this; and they erroneously assumed that I have attacked their tribe by using this fake ID. Their loyalty to their tribe made them emotional and they forgot that in my articles and speeches I have highly praised contribution made by their tribe for the cause of an independent Jammu and Kashmir.

Some of these colleagues have worked with me since 1977; and despite heated debates and disagreements they know I have never used a 'racist card' or a 'tribal card'.

I set up a face book group called, 'Views on Jammu and Kashmir'. It has 4613 members. Policy of this group is to 'advance the cause of Jammu and Kashmir, and promote peace, tolerance and democratic values. We allow members to express their views as long as they do not spread hate, make personal attacks and insult any religion or abuse people or countries.'

I have been repeatedly attacked and abused by few members with real and fake ID's. They have made unfounded allegations against me and they have not given any evidence to support their allegations; and yet I have not banned them, hoping that common sense will prevail and sensible members will understand what is going on and how politics of fear and intimidation is prevalent on face book as well.

Even at the height of this campaign there were about ten ID's speaking against me and about the same number either speaking in my support or trying to provide alternative view point. My maths is not good, but 10 members out of 4613 is not significant, but their foul language and arrogance turned the tide in my favour, because after making few clarifications, most of time I did not reply and sensible members realised there was some agenda for this campaign.

Support came from those quarters from where it was not expected; and from it was expected they decided to sit on the fence – after all no one wants to come in the firing line, and become a 'bad boy'. However, I have received more than 200 private messages and many telephone calls and they all 'appreciated my work and urged me to continue my struggle against forces of occupation, extremism, communalism, regionalism and hatred. Most of them said you must be doing something right and hitting in the right place to deserve this much attention and opposition. If you were not having any significance then no one has time to waste and write against you.'

Some critics on face book called my articles 'crap', even though my articles are published in many publications and in more than one country; and are widely read and used by those interested in Kashmir dispute and India Pakistan relations. Out of many comments I have received, I am only producing some to show what my readers say.

In reference to my article, 'Kashmiri struggle and politics of Black Day' Dr Nazir Gilani wrote: 'Well written article. K H Khurshid (Jammu Kashmir Liberation League), Khaliq Ansari (Plebiscite Front), Maqbool Bhat (PF) and all other nationalists were branded as Indian agents or anti Pakistan by Muslim Conference in AJK, for self serving political interests………You are right there has been a problem with our nationalists in understanding nationalism. Nationalists want to perform in reference to Pro Pakistan propaganda. Their conviction and ideological basis is shaky. Your article has consolidated a valuable comparison.'

Tahir Sayyed from Srinagar wrote: 'Dr Shabir Choudhry Aslamu Alikum

I have read some of your arguments with great interest. Your articles are informative and have strong and logical arguments. You are doing good work with sincerity, keep it up; and don't get intimidated by your critics.'

Elizabeth Simon del Sol wrote: Shabir Choudhry, a good summary about Pakistan's reality. One should ask why religious extremism and intolerance have increased in Pakistan. It seems clear that the policy of this country is based on strengthening its military power. Perhaps the most immediate needs for this country were not security and defence; if not economic growth, the education, children schooling and exclusion and poverty…'

Syes Sadre Uddin Hussain wrote: This is a good article and worth reading. Religious extremism was promoted by General Zia, the great exploiter of Islam to fool the masses and gain support of the Mullahs to rule Pakistan till death. The solution lies in nationalising all Masajids and Madrassahs and banning all religious groups, Tehriks and parties which are exploiting Islam for their selfish ends and creating divisions in the society and promoting extremism sectarianism, killings, Maslak and Fiqah, differences etc, in the name of Islam instead of promoting unity…..'

On the issue of telling truth and facing pressure, Elizabeth Simon del Sol wrote:

'Shabir Choudhry, you are not the only one who is suffering from abusive language. Anyone who tells the truth by shining words is heavily persecuted. When we are choosing a difficult way, we must be aware and mature enough to deal with its consequences. Truth produces large enemies and hard obstacles. Everything in life has a price. I do not expect anything from anyone from life itself. Just thank God every morning to be alive….'

In another message, Elizabeth Simon del Sol wrote: 'Shabir Choudhry, you are seeing a truth or reality that others do not see or don't want to see. You and your friends are being the witness of a chain of events that are beating you, while all others are mere actors or protagonists of these events. But unfortunately, life is a fight, and even though it seems like you're going to get knocked out, you must keep on fighting. If you are not willing to fight and die for your own life you're never going to be able to fully live. The whole situation so full of obstacles and enemies, reminds me the wise words of King Solomon: "This too shall pass. In life, nothing is certain and nothing is perfect. Just rise above the challenge."

There are many more quotes which I could produce to show what sensible people say about my work; and I don't care what people with myopic view and misplaced loyalty say. I assure all my readers, friends and colleagues that my struggle for independence of Jammu and Kashmir, equality, peace and rule of law will continue; and I will not be intimidated.

(The writer is Director Diplomatic Committee of Kashmir National Party, political analyst and author of many books and booklets. Also he is Director Institute of Kashmir Affairs.Email:drshabirchoudhry@gmail.com View: www.drshabirchoudhry.blogspot.com www.k4kashmir.com)

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KASHMIR LEGISLATOR SEEKS FIR AGAINST EDUCATION MINISTER, SLAMS PDP

Srinagar, Feb 03 (Only Kashmir): Kashmir legislator Abdul Rasheed on Thursday sought an FIR against the state education minister Peerzada Muhammad Sayeed in the exam cheating case.
He also claimed that he is being threatened after he started a campaign against corrupt ministers in the state. "Local media has reported that the education minister has threatened to reveal names of others involved in cheating cases. If it's true then the minister knows many things and should be arrested," Rasheed said at a press conference in Srinagar.
The MLA, who represents Langate constituency in north Kashmir, questioned New Delhi's role and warned against patronising corruption in the state.
"When Reddys, Rajas etc are being detained why now corruption ministers of Jammu and Kashmir. Why would people here have faith in elections if corrupt ministers are patronised," said Rasheed.
Asking opposition Peoples Democratic Party and CPI (M) to come up with a stand on the Congress minister's involvement in misusing official position to pass his son in Class 10 exams in 2009, "The PDP seems to be interested in criticising Omar Abdullah and Farooq Abdullah and none other than these two politicians," he said.
Rasheed said he is being threatened. "I am being told that I will be dealt with. But such threats will not break my conviction," said Rasheed.(OK)

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'YOUTH REJECTED GUN-CULTURE, AZADI’ :OMAR

Jammu, Feb 2 (Only Kashmir): Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today stated that his government was working in the direction towards a political solution to the problem of Jammu and Kashmir as desired by the youth of the state, who had “rejected the gun culture, merger with Pakistan and Azadi.”

Omar was talking to media persons on the sidelines of State Level Education Conference at Jammu University.

The Chief Minister said, “The youths want that there should a political solution to the problem of Jammu and Kashmir and we are also working in this direction.” While referring to a study conducted by Delhi-based Institute for Research on India and International Studies, which said that youngsters in Kashmir did not support the gun, he stated, “This is true that Kashmir youngsters have rejected gun culture, merger with Pakistan and Azadi and have favored good governance and corruption-free state.” Chief Minister, while commenting on Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) supremo Syed Salahudin's boycott call for Municipal elections, said, “It is not a new thing. We will hold elections and those who want to take part in it can take part.” The function was held to facilitate the Chief Minister for regularizing over 8000 Headmasters and 10+2 Lecturers granting them one time exception. It was organized by the J&K State School Teachers Coordination Committee.“Your service delivery in making educational institutions as seats of academic excellence and moral teaching is imperative in this direction,” Omar said and added that the role of teacher was pivotal in bringing about social change and creating disciplined, honest, dedicated, qualified and responsible society. He asked the teachers to nurture and groom students in the best forms.(OK)

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GRAND MUFTI ASKS GEELANI FOR SUGGESTIONS

Srinagar, Feb 1 (Only Kashmir): After sharp criticism by Huriyat Conference (G) Chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani and a section of civil society, Grand Mufti today broke his silence over the controversial verdict banning some Christian Pastors in Valley.
“A statement published under titled ‘Geelani scorns shariet court’ followed by a series of sensational stories in print media compel me to rebut and refute these allegations made by some unknown individuals of the so-called civil society,” reads a statement from the deputy Grand Mufti issued on Wednesday.
“I am not surprised by what is being published by some reporters of the Indian media because of their prejudice and proclivities. What is unfortunate and intriguing is that such statements are coming from some members of the community which professes Islam as their faith,” he said.
The deputy Grand Mufti said that the issue was neither political nor personal, but purely a matter of faith.
“It was agonising to note that some of our boys and girls were being converted to Christianity by unethical allurements and immoral inducements. I personally believe that this is a more important matter than any other public issue related to our community. Everyone has a right to criticise any individual or his actions but one cannot do so if such criticism encourages blasphemy and irreverent references to the holy Prophet (PBUH),” the statement quoting Grand Mufti, said.
It is pertinent to mention here that the persons involved in converting Muslim boys and girls to Christianity by illegal and unethical means were expelled from the state in order to maintain amity and fraternal relations between communities and to avoid bad blood and unwarranted confrontation between them.
“It needs to be made clear that there is no ban on the functioning of missionary schools which have contributed a lot to the spread of education in the state. It is only the wrong doers who have been identified for action. However, we have to guard against the possibility of such mischievous elements succeeding in disturbing communal peace and harmony in the state. The need of hour is to constantly monitor their conduct and activities. It is therefore the duty of the people and the state Government to ensure that such mischievous elements are not allowed to indulge in nefarious activities anywhere in the state,” it said.
“I take this opportunity to urge all those who disagree with the expulsion of wrong doers for their misdeeds to suggest what else could be done in the circumstances of the case, keeping in view the larger interests of the Faith ,peace and order in the state and the requirements of communal harmony,” the Grand Mufti added.(OK)

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SOLAR ENERGY TO LIGHT UP J&K POLICE

New Delhi, Feb 01 (Only Kashmir): Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Dr. Farooq Abdullah has sanctioned over Rs. 30 crores to the Jammu & Kashmir Police to install over 500 solar photovoltaic power plants at training centres, battalion headquarters, SDPOs offices and even police stations and border police posts. This is the fifth major solar energy initiative supported by MNRE in the State in the current year.
The proposal by the J&K Police envisages setting up of 523 solar photovoltaic power plants with an aggregate capacity of 1.4 MW at various establishments of the J&K Police spread throughout the State. The estimated cost of the project is Rs. 38 crores. 90 percent of this would be contributed by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy as Central Finance Assistance (CFA).
The project is expected to be completed in a year’s time. The installations of these power plants will enable uninterrupted power supply to the various police installations. In particular, reliable power supply to far-flung and remote police stations and out posts will ensure regular connectivity and quicker action in both routine law & order and anti-terrorist activities.
Last year, over Rs. 30 crores were sanctioned by the Ministry for setting up of over 65 power plants in the major health centres of the State with an aggregate capacity of over 1 MW. Over 20,000 solar home lights were also sanctioned for distribution in the far-flung areas of the State at a total project cost of Rs. 23 crores.
Earlier this year, the Ministry had sanctioned power plants for various installations including the Islamic University in Srinagar and the Government Polytechnic, Srinagar. It has also given support for bringing mobile connectivity to far-flung areas of Kishtwar district by sanctioning over Rs. 35 lakhs for solarisation of telecom towers in that area. (OK)

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KASHMIR SEMINAR SCHEDULED IN PUNE POSTPONED, AMID PROTEST

Srinagar Jan 31 (Only Kashmir): A university in western India has postponed a seminar on Kashmir after Hindu groups objected to its "anti-nationalist" programme.
The Symbiosis University in the city of Pune also cancelled the screening of a controversial film on the Indian army's role in Kashmir.
University authorities say they will "revisit and rethink" the seminar programme to make it "more balanced".
Kashmir is divided into Pakistani- and Indian-administered areas.
Both nations claiming the region in its entirety. They have fought two of their three wars since 1947 over Kashmir.
The development also comes in the wake of an intensified debate in India over free speech.
A spokesman for the Symbiosis University told the Media that the three-day seminar, Voices of Kashmir, which was scheduled to begin on Friday, was being postponed.
He said the seminar was intended to be an "apolitical and academic event", without hurting anybody's sentiments.
Reports say that representatives of the student wing of the Hindu nationalist BJP, and another Hindu group, met college authorities and protested against the screening of a documentary film by filmmaker Sanjay Kak that is critical of the army's role in Indian-administered Kashmir.
"We submitted a memorandum to the college authorities against offering a platform to anti-national elements at the seminar and they told us that the seminar would be postponed," a spokesman for the student wing told the Media.

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5-DAY STATE YOUNG ARTISTS COMPETITION STARTED

Jammu, Jan 31 (Only Kashmir): Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora today inaugurated 5-day State Young Artists Painting Competition, organized by J&K Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, here at Kalakendera.
Minister of State for Home, Tourism and Culture, Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani, Commissioner Secretary, Tourism and Culture, Mr. Attul Duloo, Additional Secretaries and other senior officers of the Academy were also present on the occasion.
Talking to the media persons, on the sidelines of the function, Mr. Jora said that holding of such events are aimed at to exploit the hidden talent of budding artists of the State. He said Academy has taken several initiatives to promote art of painting in the State, adding more such competitions would be organized at district levels also.
The Minister said that holding of painting camps will provide opportunity to artists, coming from different areas of the State, including Ladakh, to interact with each other and share their experience. He asked artists to hone their skills in order to prove their metal at national level competitions.

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APSCC WELCOMES SC'S ORDER IN KILLING OF 36 SIKHS IN PATHRIBAL

Srinagar, Jan 31 (Only Kashmir) : Welcoming the Supreme Court (SC) order on killing of five civilians in alleged fake encounter at Pathribal, the All Parties Sikh Coordination Committee (APSCC) today demanded a thorough probe into the killings of 36 members of the Sikh community at Chattisingpora in South Kashmir.
'We welcome the Supreme Court order, condemning the Pathribal incident in which five locals were shot dead and later labelled as foreign militants in March 2000,' APSCC chairman Jagmohan Singh Raina said here.
He said, leaders of various sikh bodies has demanded that all those responsible for the killings should be charge sheeted and brought to book.
At the same time, the APSCC urged the Supreme Court to direct the authorities to conduct a time bound inquiry into the killing of 36 Sikhs at Chattisinghpora few days before the 'fake encounter' of Pathribal.
He said many inquiries ordered by the government and security agencies failed to reveal who was behind the killings of Sikhs. A fresh inquiry under the supervision of Supreme Court will help to bring the culprits to book, he added.
He appealed to Justices B S Chauhan and Swatanter Kumar to order a fresh probe into both these incidents, so that truth can be revealed and actual culprits brought to book.
He further urged if Chattisinghpora case is solved, the other cases related to it will be automatically solved.
He also demanded 'National Victim Status' for the families of 36 Sikhs killed at Chattisinghpora, as they, despite all this, not only stayed back in valley but also strengthened the communal harmony in Valley.
After twelve years, the people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially the Sikhs of the valley are still waiting for the justice and urged the State and Central governments to nab the culprits of Chattisinghpora massacre.
Unidentified gunmen in the dead of night, entered a quiet village of Chattisinghpora in district Anantanag, Kashmir and massacred 36 innocent sikhs.
He said a drama was staged and five civilians were killed and later burnt, who were labelled as foreign militants, to close the case.

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GEELANI OPPOSES FATWA TO EXPEL CHRISTIAN PRIESTS

Srinagar, Jan 31 (Only Kashmir): Senior separatist leader Syed Ali Geelani Tuesday locked horns with the local Sharia board over a fatwa seeking expulsion of four Christian priests from the Kashmir Valley.

Geelani, a Hurriyat leader, said in a statement from New Delhi: “Muslims should protect their religion themselves. Expelling somebody from Kashmir is no solution.

“Kashmiris cannot ignore the contributions of Christian missionary schools towards the educational system in the Valley.

“Unfortunately, Muslims have not been able to build an educational institution like those by the Christian missionary schools despite all available resources."

The local Sharia court had Jan 19 issued a decree seeking the expulsion of four priests from the state who were allegedly involved in converting some local youth to Christianity through financial allurement.

The decree had also demanded that a prayer written by Urdu poet Iqbal should be compulsorily recited at the morning assemblies by all Christian missionary schools in the Valley. (OK)

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GHULAM NABI KHAYAL BAGS BEST BOOK AWARD-2011 FOR LEAVES OF CHINAR

Jammu Jan 30 (Only Kashmir): Renowned poet, writer, researcher, critic and senior journalist of the State, Ghulam Nabi Khayal, is among some literary and cultural personalities of J&K selected for the Best Book Award and other honours by the J&K Academy of Art, Culture and languages for the year 2011.
Mr Khayal was given the award for his English publication Leaves of Chinar, a unique collection of research-based articles pertaining to the culture, literatures, folklore, mythology, history, tradition and heritage of Kashmir. Mr Khayal has already been given the Academy Award (1974), Sahitya Akademi award (1975) and more than one dozen awards for his meritorious contribution in the fields of literature and journalism covering about six decades.
The best book awards are given each year to the selected books recommended by a panel of experts for ten languages recognized in the State Constitution. The languages and dialects are Kashmiri, Urdu, English, Dogri, Punjabi, Ladakhi, Pahari, Gojri, Shina and Balti.
These prestigious awards, each carrying cash of Rs 51,000, a memento, citation and a shawl were given away by Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora, at an impressive function held here Monday, 30 January.
Senior Dogri writer and filmmaker Ved Rahi has been selected for life time achievement award carrying cash of Rs 100.000, citation and a shawl.
Several more awards were given to persons belonging to the fields of music, media, fine arts, media and social services.
Following are some of the awardees:
Om Goswami (Dogri writer), Deepali Wattal (Singer), Ghulam Nabi Bulbul (Singer), Triloke Kaul (artist), Nazir A Mir (craftsman), Manzoor Ahmad ( Naqshgeer), Ashok Jailkhani (media), Bashir Manzar (media), and others. (OK)

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GOVERNMENT TO REVOKE HISTORICAL JAMIA MASJID SRINAGAR

Srinagar Jan 27 (Only Kashmir): Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Dr. Asgar Samoon on Friday in a meeting announced that the work on the Rs.5 crore Beautification project of historical Jamia Masjid Corridor is likely to be started from April,2012.He hoped, by March this year, the project will get approval from Government of India. He said by execution of this project, it will not only restore the past glory of the Historical Jamia Masjid but will also promote more pilgrimage tourism including commercial activities in the area and will strength the economy of the locals .He said the Srinagar city has a tremendous potential of pilgrimage tourism and the government is making all efforts to promote pilgrimage tourism in whole Jammu and Kashmir.

The meeting was attended by, among others, District Development Commissioner Srinagar, Director Tourism, Director SKICC, Chief Engineer of R&B, Chief Engineer PDD, Director Floriculture and the representatives of Jamia Masjid Traders Federation.
On the occasion, the representatives of Jamia Masjid Market Federation gave full assurance to the Divisional Administration for supporting in implementation of the said project in letter and spirit. They said by execution of this project, will add more grace in the historical importance of the Jamia Masjid and the locals particularly the shopkeepers will be benefited.
Dr. Samoon said that the Historical Jamia Masjid is our identity, century old heritage and it is the responsibilities of all the sections of the society and all walks of life to fully support in implementation of the project.(OK)

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DUKHTRAN MILAT LEADER ASIA ANDRABI SLAMS PAKISTAN GOVERNMENT OVER THE ISSUE OF AAFIA SIDDIQUI

Srinagar, Jan 27 (Only Kashmir): Jammu and Kashmir's women separatist outfit, Dukhtran Milat protested on Friday to sought the release of Pakistani neuroscientist Aafia Siddiqui who is jailed in America.
The members of the separatist outfit demonstrated in Srinagar where they shouted slogans against America and expressed solidarity with Siddiqui.
Siddiqui was arrested by American intelligence authorities in 2008 for allegedly being one of the key conspirators in the 9/11 attacks in New York.
She has been kept in various jails in America since then and there were reports of her being physically tortured.
While alleging the charges levelled against her as baseless, the protesting outfit's leader Asiya Andrabi said injustice meted out to her was intolerable.
"Aafia Siddiqui is a symbol of strength and resistance for us. We gathered here today to express solidarity with her. In the American jails, after severe torture, Aafia Siddiqui has contracted cancer. She has also been sexually assaulted and as a result of which Aafia is now pregnant in an American jail. Nobody can bear this kind of injustice," said Andrabi.
Andrabi also slammed the Pakistani government for their failure to take any action in the case.
"Even if they don't release her, she should be put in a Pakistani jail so that she can atleast meet her children. She is a sick woman and she needs to be near her dear ones in such a condition. It is our request to Pakistan's government, clergy and the people should come forward for the rescue of Aafia," she added.
An American court recently pronounced a verdict in which it had sentenced Siddiqui to 86 years of imprisonment and she was also named in the list of the FBI's most wanted militants. (OK)

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I WILL DEDICATE NEXT 3 YEARS TO INCLUSIVE DEVELOPMENT: OMAR ABDULLAH

Jammu Jan 25 (Only Kashmir):– Giving credit to people of the State for their valuable contribution in making 2011 year of peace and development, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah has sought their unabated support to his government in its efforts of realizing prosperous, tranquil and model Jammu and Kashmir.
In his Republic Day address to the people from Doordarshan and Radio Kashmir, the Chief Minister said that considerable headway was achieved on the fronts of – restoration of peace and curbing corruption – identified by him as focal points of target for the year 2011.
“I had asked you to give me a year of peace I will empower you and accelerate the pace of development”, he said and referred to the conduct of free and fair panchayat elections and enactment and implementation of Public Service Guarantee Act (PSGA).
“My government conducted free and fair panchayat elections and transferred financial as well as administrative powers to these democratically elected grass root institutions involving these in process of planning and development”, he said adding that services of about 14 departments have been transferred to the panchayats. He said that the government has also ordered financial support of Rs. One lakh to each panchayat institution for undertaking smaller works in the panchayat halqa. He said that the election to the Urban Local Body institutions would be held in March-April.
The Chief Minister said that one of the biggest achievements of his government is the enactment and implementation of Public Service Guarantee Act (PSGA) making Jammu and Kashmir one among the first few States to have such an vibrant public service delivery guarantee legislation in place. He said the Act has not only made government functionaries in 6 departments of Power, Water Supply, Housing, Transport, Revenue and Consumers Affairs and Pubic Distribution legally bound to provide the identified services to people within the prescribed time frame but also provided for punishing the erring officials for any laxity, delay or failure in providing the service within the period prescribed under the Act.
“My government has constituted State Information Commission and placed its head and members to make all government departments answerable for their every activity before the people. By this initiative my government has given power to the voice of people and made officers and functionaries of government departments answerable before common man. This has helped to make transparency and accountability to rule the roost in government functioning”, he said adding that reconstitution of State Accountability Commission and enactment of Vigilance Act were other important measures to restrict corruption and empower general public to get answers of their queries from the government functionaries.(OK)

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GAWKADAL MASSACRE WAS A WELL THOUGHT PLAN OF INDIA: ER HILAL WAR

Srinagar, Jan 21 (Only Kashmir): Business and other activities were affected in parts of the Civil Lines in Srinagar today.

The strike call was given by PPP Chairman Er Hilal Ahmad War and was supported by Syed Ali Shah Geelani & Shabir Shah to remember 52 people who were killed allegedly after security forces opened fire to disperse separatist procession at Gaw Kadal near here on January 21, 1990.

Shops and business establishments in Maisuma, Gaw Kadal, Madina Chowk, Red Cross Road, Exchange Road and Haji Masjid remained closed.

PPP Chief Er Hilal War took out a procession in which hundreds of PPP supports took part in historical Maisuma Bazar. They were protesting against massacre and were Carrying banners reading as, “Punish the Killers of Gawkadal Massacre”, “Give Me Liberty or Give Me Death”. The youngsters were Chanting slogans in favour of (Azaadi) Freedom of Kashmir and against military occupation of India.

However, life was normal in nearby historic Lal Chowk, the nerve centre of the city, Badshah Chowk and Moulana Azad road with all shops functioning and traffic plying.

While paying the homage to Gawkadal Martyrs in the rally, Mr. War said, “The Gawkadal Massacre was a well thought plan of the then Home Ministry of India which was aimed at to pave the way for Kashmiri Pandit’s exodus from Kashmir”. It is pertinent to mention here that the conspiracy of Kashmiri Pandits exodus was hatched by the then Governor of J & K, Mr. Jagmohan in collaboration with Home Ministry of India. The Home Ministry of India was then headed by PDP Chief Patron, Mufti Muhammad Sayed who claims to be the well wisher of oppressed Kashmiris.

Additional security forces and state police personnel had been deployed in the area to prevent any law and order problem. However, some people made attempt to take out a procession from Maisuma, which was foiled by the police. (OK)

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PAKISTAN PM APPEARS IN COURT

Islamabad Jan 19 (Only Kashmir): The Pakistani Supreme Court on Thursday adjourned until next month its hearing over the contempt notice that it issued to Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani for not reopening lingering corruption cases against President Asif Ali Zardari and other officials.

The move came after Gilani's lawyer asked for more time to look through records pertaining to the case.

Gilani, who will not have to appear at the next hearing on February 1, left the packed court room following the adjournment. Members of the cabinet and the leaders of allied political parties had joined him in court.

His appearance at the hearing comes after weeks of political turbulence in Pakistan that has strained relations between the country's civilian and military leaders.

The corruption cases stem from money-laundering charges against Zardari and his late wife and former prime minister, Benazir Bhutto. A Swiss court convicted them in absentia in 2003 of laundering millions of dollars.

After a controversial amnesty was granted in 2007 by then-President Pervez Musharraf to Zardari, Bhutto and thousands of other politicians and bureaucrats, the Pakistani government asked Swiss authorities to drop the case.

In 2009, the Pakistani Supreme Court ruled the amnesty was unconstitutional and called on the government to take steps to have the cases reopened, including Zardari's. The government has not done so, and the court has apparently lost patience.

Since Gilani is the head of the government, the court justices view him as responsible and want him to explain why the government has not followed the court's order. Hence the contempt notice and summons that it issued to Gilani this week.

On Thursday, Gilani told the court that he considered Zardari to be exempt from prosecution.

"We have the height of respect for the judiciary, but there is full immunity for the president -- not only in Pakistan but in the entire world, too," he said.

That stance did not appear to satisfy the judges, and the likely outcome of the process remains unclear.

If Gilani apologizes and convinces the court that the government will follow its orders, the court could withdraw the contempt of court notice.

Reasons why Pakistan won't see a coup

If the court is not satisfied with Gilani's answer, it will formulate contempt charges against him and present them at a later date.

"If the court concludes that he's in contempt, then they can take action against him," said Saeed-uz-Zaman Siddiqui, a former chief justice of Pakistan. "The maximum sentence is six months in prison."

Gilani could go to prison, if convicted, but would not necessarily lose his premiership.

Pakistani law says that after a contempt of court conviction, the court sends a notice to the speaker of the National Assembly, the lower house of Parliament. The speaker has 30 days to forward the notice to the Election Board, which has 90 days to decide if Gilani is disqualified as a member of Parliament and therefore disqualified as prime minister.

Aitzaz Ahsan, Gilani's lawyer, has expressed confidence his client will be cleared.

"The prime minister will survive," Ahsan said Wednesday night on GEO-TV, a Pakistani news channel. "There will be no storm."

Ahsan is one of the most prominent and widely respected lawyers in Pakistan. He led the so-called "lawyer's movement," an uprising in 2008 that helped bring about the reinstatement of the current Pakistani chief justice, Iftikhar Muahmmad Chaudhry, and dozens of other judges who were sacked by Musharraf in 2007.

Analysts said they believe Ahsan carries considerable influence in the Supreme Court because of his efforts to restore Pakistan's judiciary.

Ahsan said Gilani would appeal if convicted.

The court hearing comes after a weeks of public speculation and political intrigue about the possibility of a military coup in Pakistan.

Military and civilian leaders held meetings over the weekend in an effort to defuse tensions. And the National Assembly passed a resolution Monday supporting the country's democratic system.

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LIFE REMAINS CRIPPLED IN KASHMIR DUE TO SNOW, COLD CONDITIONS

Srinagar, Jan 17 (Only Kashmir): Life remained affected in the Kashmir valley, including Srinagar, the summer capital of the state, where people are facing acute shortage of water, because of frozen taps, and cooking gas, with slippery road conditions adding to their woes.
Life was thrown out of gear after the first heavy snowfall on January 7 which snapped electricity for about a 4 days after all transmission lines, importing power to Kashmir, were damaged at several places in Pirpanchal and Ramban areas.
However, after three days the power supply was partially restored to main towns while the far-flung areas continued to face darkness.
The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway is also blocked, resulting in shortage of essentials, particularly LPG gas cylinders. Internet service is also effected.

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‘WE APPRECIATE POSITIVE CRITICISM BY MIRWAIZ’ : SAGAR

Srinagar, Jan 14 (Only Kashmir): A day after Hurriyat Conference (M) chairman, Mirwaiz Umar Fariooq, accused Omar Abdullah government of failing to provide basic amenities to people in harsh winter, Rural Development Minister Ali Mohammad Sagar, Saturday said government would welcome any criticism which would for benefit of people.

Sagar said, “His (Mirwaiz’s) criticism is in positive direction and we welcome positive criticism. There can be some administrative problems but if someone can point it out, we will appreciate him. Whether it is Mirwaiz or some one else if it is in the interests of people we will welcome it.”

He said that immediately after Mirwaiz’s statement, Minister for CAPD took stock of the situation.

“There is no shortage of essential commodities in the Valley. If there is any complaint of shortage people should bring it into the notice of concerned authorities and there grievances would be solved immediately,” Sagar told Media

The Minister said that Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, has given strict instructions that problems of the people should be solved on priority basis.

Meanwhile, Sagar suspended BDO Pampore, Junior Engineer and two VLWs on complaints of embezzlement.

He also sought an explanation from Director Rural Development for failing to monitor the situation in Pampore.(OK)

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WOMEN EMPOWERMENT RECEIVING EQUAL FOCUS: OMAR INAUGURATES JK CSWB OFFICE

Only Kashmir Jan 14 (Only Kashmir) Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Saturday inaugurated the new Office Complex of J&K State Social Welfare Board at Pragati Bhawan here. He also inaugurated electronic- APPLICATION FOR WOMEN EMPOWERMENT AND DEVELOPMENT ACTION by NGOs (e-AWEDAN).

Minister for Social Welfare, Sakina Itoo, Chairperson Centre Social Welfare Board (CSWB), Prema Caraippa, Advisor to the Chief Minister Mubarak Gul, Chairperson Social Welfare Board, Khem Lata Vakloo, Vice Chairman Kissan Board, Rachpal Singh, Vice Chairman OBC, Kuldeep Verma, Vice Chairman Pehari Welfare Board, Mustaq Ahmed Bukhari were present on the occasion among others.

Omar Abdullah had online interaction with the functionaries of Centre Social Welfare Board New Delhi. He was given brief about the functioning of e-AWEDAN by the officials of CSWB through video conferencing.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that State government has initiated an ambitious strategy of public empowerment adding that the empowerment of women constitutes its important part. He said that government is committed to ameliorate the lot of women and weaker sections of the society.

The Chief Minister said that state sponsored and centrally assisted schemes are under implementation in the state in social welfare sector to provide various assistances and financial help to poor, needy and economically backward sections of the society.

Omar laid stress on putting missionary zeal in implementing welfare schemes aimed at all-round socio economic development and rehabilitation of destitute, orphans, needy and weaker sections of the society. He said added efforts are required to pull these sections above poverty and bring them at par with others.

The Chairperson CSWB presented resume of the functioning and programmes of CSWB in the state. She also spoke in detailed about e-AWEDAN.

The matters pertaining to the development of women and children in the state were discussed by the J&K State Social Welfare Board Chairperson Khem Lata Vakloo, who also talked about the special package announced by the UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi for the state.

The Minister for Social Welfare said that the matter of special package has been taken up with the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development and it will be further persuaded for sanction.

The Chief Minister also interacted with various beneficiaries, VOs and NGOs on the occasion.

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KASHMIRI KOLAVARI

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JK CABINET PASSES DRUG POLICY

Jammu, Jan 12 (Only Kashmir): The State Cabinet which met here today under the Chairmanship of Chief Minister Mr. Omar Abdullah approved the J&K State Drug Policy.
Explaining the salient features of the policy, Health Minister Mr. Sham Lal Sharma said that the Drug Policy would help to ensure balanced growth of health sector in the State. It would also rationalize the use of drugs. He said that the features of drug policy include selection of essential drug list by expert committee to be known as State Drug Committee.
The Committee will comprise clinicians, Micro-biologists, qualified Pharmacists and independent experts besides senior functionaries of the departments. He said for Indian System of Medicines (ISM) there will be a separate committee.
Health Minister said that the policy has been formulated under the directions of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah who is keen to upgrade the health care status of Jammu and Kashmir and universalize the quality health session across the State.
Sham Lal Sharma said that drug policy also envisages rationalizing number of drug licenses only drug listed in EDL shall be procured and the qualification of drugs would be done, taking into consideration the parameters of demand, lead time, transportation and emergency needs. He said an appropriate inventory control system to prevent excessive stocking of items and also present stock outlets has also been taken care of in the Drug Policy which also takes care of proper recall and disposal procedures followed as per standard guidelines. He said that the policy also envisages strengthening of Drug and Food Control Organization and Drug Testing Laboratories. It also provides for promoting rational use of drugs in the State so that patients receive the medicines appropriately. It also provides for drugs and therapeutic committees in all the hospitals. He said the concept of essential drugs, rational drug use and generic prescribing shall be integral part of basic and in-service training of health professionals under the policy.
He said Drug Information Centre would be established in the State to provide appropriate drug information. (OK)

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NHPC WAS NEVER GIVEN OWNERSHIP OF ANY POWER PROJECT IN JK: TAJ MOHI UD DIN

Jammu Jan 10 (Only Kashmir): “The NHPC in J&K was never given ownership of power projects as per the provisions of law except their execution, operation and maintenance. Even the agency status given to the corporation expired in 1987. Therefore, these projects actually belong to the State. However, a cabinet subcommittee has recommended for payment to the corporation for taking over Uri and Salal projects which will enable J&K to become not only self sufficient in power but also export it to other States and strengthen our economy to stand on our own legs,” said Minister for PHE, Irrigation & Flood Control, Mr. Taj Mohi ud Din today.
Delivering the key note address at a national seminar, ‘Management of Water Resources in North India’, at Jammu University this morning, the Minister said the agreements J&K government signed with the centre from time to time gave the corporation rights to the extent of execution, operation and maintenance of power projects in the State but not the ownership rights.
The Minister said the government has constituted a cabinet subcommittee which is examining the issue. He said the Government intends to buy back Uri and Salal hydel projects on the depreciated value which can make J&K a surplus in power generation.
Giving a resume of activities undertaken by his Departments to consolidate water resources in J&K, Mr. Taj enumerated several steps taken on this count. He said for the first time in 60 years a legislation (J&K Water Resources Act-2010) was passed aimed at consolidating water resources in J&K. He said more than Rs. 900 crore would be realized as water usage charges this year which forms 30% of State’s total revenue.
The Minister said the Government has initiated the process to construct the remaining portion of Ravi canal in Kathua district which would irrigate more than 1.33 lakh acres in three districts and help add 2.66 lakh metric tons to the existing food grain production.
Director, Information & Public Relations, Khawaja Farooq Renzushah, in his speech said that the Jammu and Kashmir has huge water resources and these are needed to be utilized fully for the benefit of the people of the State. He hoped that J&K would soon become a power rich state from the present power deficit State. He said the present debate over water resources of the State has received tremendous response from the people of the State.
Later, a brain storming question answer session was held in which Tejwant Singh Reen and other eminent persons participated.
Minister for PHE Mr. Taj Mohi-ud-Din replied to the queries.

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GOVERNOR FOR INVOLVING STUDENTS, NGOS IN ENHANCING AWARENESS ABOUT CLIMATE CHANGE

Jammu, Jan 4 (Only Kashmir): Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, today emphasized the importance of involving students and NGOs to organize painting and essay writing competitions and other relevant programmes in educational institutions to generate greater awareness about the impact of Climate Change.

The Governor said this after interacting with Miss Shreya Bharti, 11th class student of Heritage School, Sainik Colony, Jammu, who called on him after participating at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change held at Durban in South Africa from 28th November to 9th December, 2011. She was among the four Eco-Club students selected to represent the country at this Conference as part of the official Indian delegation. Shreya was accompanied by Dr. C. M. Seth, Chairperson, World Wide Fund for Nature, India (J&K Chapter) and Ms. Subeena Dogra, her Eco-Teacher.
The Governor observed that Climate Change shall affect all forms of life, fauna and flora and cause wide-ranging adverse consequences on varied fronts. Off season rains and snows shall impact on the traditional cropping patterns. We should commence preparation to meet all arising challenges, he said.
Describing students as future leaders, he said that their involvement in awareness generation campaigns can make a significant difference on the way we look at various issues. He said that essays, articles and other write-ups of students, in different languages, could be published in journals and newspapers to disseminate awareness about Climate Change. He said that the Universities of the State would do well to think of launching some pilot projects on issues relating to Climatic Change, particularly in view of J&K having three distinct agro-climatic zones.
The Governor said that the participation of students from Jammu and Kashmir in such international conferences can inspire children in other States to also take part in such activities. He presented a gift to Shreya and wished her a bright future ahead.
Sharing her experiences with the Governor about her participation in the Durban Conference, Shreya said that she participated in group discussions, youth meets and several other events associated with the Conference.(OK)

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ESTABLISHMENT OF KASHMIR PRESS CLUB

Srinagar Jan 03 (Only Kashmir): An initiative and a step forward in the fourth estate of democracy. It is for the first time in the history of Kashmir that some people from journalist fraternity made certain efforts for the establishment of press club in Kashmir province under the name of Kashmir Press Club which was the long pending demand of the whole fraternity and is registered with the Government of Jammu and Kashmir. The founders of the said club succeeded to get the club affiliated with Indraprastha press club of India after convincing them regarding the importance of establishment of a press club which is the need of an hour. The proposed club aims to work for the welfare of journalist fraternity in co-ordination with Indraprastha press club of India which is recognized by the Government of India and works for the all-round development and welfare of media persons throughout the country. Mr. Rasheed Rahi from the Kashmir province has been given the responsibility to head the Kashmir Press Club who shall be assisted by some co- convenors namely Mr. Nazir Ahmad Wani, Mr.Rashid Rahil, Mr. Basharat Nazir Zargar, Mr. Arshid Rasool, Mr. Nazir Makhdoomi, Dr. Rafi Ahmad and Feroz Ali till election for the office bearer is coducted. It is to be noted that the governing body of the club shall be elected purely on the basis of election by the members of the club. In the first instance the location of Kashmir press Club shall be at A.P.I. House Gojwara Srinagar. The press club has initiated the membership drive and hope for a positive respond from the media fraternity. (OK)

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WHEN KASHMIR WAS SLAPPED

(Note: Only Kashmir may be or may not be agree views expressed in this post. The views expressed in the post are the writer’s own.)

By: Tahir Muzter

It was in 1963--- Consequent upon Kamraj Plan of Indian National congress, in August 1963, Late Bakhshi Gulam Mohammad resigned as Prime Minister of Jammu &Kashmir and Kh, Shamus-Din took over as his successor. There was some topsy-turvy in the corridors o f power in Kashmir. Late Bakhshi Gulam Mohammad had promised to the Prime Minister late Pandit Jawaharlal Lal Nehru that he would see to it that G.M.Sadiq was elected the chief Minister , but in Kashmir the strongest contender against Sadiq becoming the Chief Minister was Bashki Abdul Rashid, the then General Secretary of the National Conference---

A move started to persuade Bakhshi to withdraw his resignation. That was the time that late Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah was still in Jail, and there was a strong demand emerging in rational political circles of the country for his release. However it is along and separate story Here it isjust a cursory mention of the then situation prevailing in Kashmir, though kh. Shamas-din- took over as the Prime Minister of the state in that situation. As a researcher on the subject, my opinion is that the mysterious disappearance of the Holy Relic and consequent upon sea change of Kashmir politics is not possible to understand without going through deep in the situation prevailing then.

It was in this background that the Moi-i-Muqaddas (Holy Relic of Prophet Mohammad (SAW) was mysteriously found missing on the morning of 27th December, 1963 from Hujrah Sharif of Aasari—Sharief Hazratbal(old building),obviously being politically motivated. But it was the biggest torture of the extreme love and regard Muslim have with the Prophet Muhammad (saw) and within no time of this shivring news, lakhs of people came on roads throughout length and breadths of Kashmir, mourning and weeping. This continued till 4th January , when recovery of Moi-i- Muqadas was claimed officially.

Mysteriously disappearance shook not only Kashmir but it proved a trembling news for Delhi also. With this the politics and history of Kashmir turned a new leaf. It is only to recall here that the Centre opted to remain criminally silent with regard to the conspiracy that worked behind the removal of the Holy Relic, and the culprit from whom the investigating agency recovered the Holy Relic.

It happened despite the fact that the then Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Lal Nehru broadcasted to the people of Kashmir, that he was sending his senior Intelligence Officer B. N. Mullick to Srinagar to take charge of the case and to recover the Holy Relic and also promised to punish the culprits.

It was a unique occasion after 1953, when the people of Kashmir trusted the Government of India and demanded the exposure of the wicked culprit and the vicious conspiracy, as it had hurt gravely the sentiments of lacks of Muslims throughout the state of Jammu & Kashmir. Indeed the movement for recovery of the Holy Relic was joined by the non-Muslims including the Hindus at Jammu. Instead of exposing the conspiracy and punishing the culprits as promised by the Prime Minister Nehru publicly the then Chief of the Intelligence Bureau of India, Mr. B.N. Mullik, , who on the directive of Pt. Jawaharlal investigated the mysterious episode, delivered a blow on the face of Kashmir is when he recorded---“Recovery of Moi-Muqaddas (Holy Relic) was an intelligence operation never to be disclosed. I cannot describe the process which led to its replacement at the place from which it had been removed on December 27. (My years with Nehru by B.N. Mullick -1972, Page142).

o give here the details of the “Tahreek Baazyabi Moi-Muqadas (SAW) (Agitation for the recovery of Moi-i-Muqadas) and its gravity is not within the scope of this brief write up but Mullik himself has confessed saying that---------- “What I saw in the town was something which I had never seen before thirty-five years of executive service dealing with law and order. Every thing was closed: offices, schools, shops, cinemas, restaurants. Langers (eating places) had been set up at various places in the town. Large crowds were coming from villages, carrying food, bedding and even fuel for warming their bodies. There was no end to the stream of people and the smallest procession was at least a mile long covering the entire width of the road including the footpaths” There is much more to tell about the Tahreek –i- Moi Muqadas (SAW) and the demand of exposing the conspiracy and punishing the culprits. But ignoring all that and against their commitment to the people of Kashmir. The Govt. of India slapped down the lakhs of people belonging to Kashmir and B.N.Mullik’s above mentioned book is a documentary proof of it. Probably it would expose some pro –India Kashmir leaders, and their political game of power struggle. Anyway, the Holy Relic episode wholly decided, directed and administered by the Central Home Ministry did not prove a hard nut for Kashmir to crack as they soon realized that the drama was enacted to hoodwink them and bring about a political change in the State that would not be as abhorrent to the people of the ill-fated State as the 1953 episode had proved.

( In this picture Late A . Ahead Lone then a sectary, J &K Mahaz-Rai-Shumari is pointing out on the door of “Hujrah Khas of Old Hazratbal , which was broken’”)

The wtiiter can be reached at: tahirmuzter.s@rediffmail.com

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MATRIC RESULTS DECLARED 5 CANDIDATES SECURE 100 PERCENT MARKS

Srinagar, Dec 28 (Only Kashmir): The Board of School Education declared results of matric on Wednesday. Out of 50685 candidates who had appeared in the exams held in October this year 29280 were declared successful.
Five candidates secured 100 percent marks while nine secured 499 out of 500 marks. 14 candidates have secured 498 out of 500 marks.
First time five students have secured 100 percent marks. They are Naseer Ahmad Rather from Sidarth Education Institute Anantnag, Khair-ul-Nisa from SAMIE Beerwah, Amir Mustafa Tyndale Biscoe, Hafsa Haroon from Presentation Convent and Khoban Jamsheed from Mallinson School.
Interestingly all of the nine students who secured 498 marks are girls.
Abid Abdullah from Higher Secondary School Vilgam has secured 497 marks and is one among fourth toppers. Syed Zeeshan Nisar from Boys High School Lajoora Pulwama has secured 495 marks and is fifth one among fifth toppers.
The overall pass percentage this year has reached 66.13 percent from 65.98 percent last year. 4238 candidates who have passed the exam have been kept in qualified but to improve which is a new category this year.
1731 candidates have secured A1 category which is above 90 percent. Last year only 872 candidates had secured A1 category. This year 3273 candidates have secured A2 grade which is above 80 percent and below 90 percent.
Meanwhile, the BOSE had kept the results available on its website www.jkbose.co.in, www.indiaresults.com.

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MIRWAIZ WEBSITE LAUNCES WEBSITE AGAINST RISING SOCIAL EVILS IN KASHMIR

Srinagar, Dec 27 (Only Kashmir): Mirwaiz-i-Kashmir (The owner of the highest religious seat in Kashmir) Umar Farooq today at Mirwaiz Manzil (the ancestor home of Mirwaiz) Rajouri Kadal Tuesday inaugurates the first of its kind Islamic Website in presence of a Galaxy of Ulamas & high dignitary persons.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq who is also president of Mutahida Majlis Amal today inaugurated a website here for the protection of faith. Addressing a meeting of Ulema he called for strengthening of religious institutions and Islamic banking and to help poor and destitute people of the valley.
Mirwaiz also expressed concern over the activities of Christian missionaries. “We should strive for creating Baitul Maal, to help needy people,” he said.
The Mirwaiz said that there was a need for the formation of committee consisting financial experts who would strengthen the Islamic Banking concept in the Valley. “Jammu and Kashmir is a Muslim majority region and we should take some concrete steps to implement Islamic Banking,” he said.
Mirwaiz expressed serious concern about the conspiracies to spread sale of liquor in the valley and demanded to take back the issued licenses from the liquor shops.
He also appealed to religious scholars and preachers to play part in imparting religious teachings and principals of Islam. The Mirwaiz also inaugurated a website ‘www. tahfuzeiman.org’ to curb the conversion menace in the valley.
He reiterated his stand and said that the movement for the protection of faith is not against any religious minority community.
Rehmatullah Mir, chairman Darul Uloom Reheemia, Mufti Nazir Ahmad Qasmi, Advocate Zahid Ali, Abdul Rehman Bhat, General Secretary Jami’at Ahalhadees, Moulana Abass Ansari, Chairman Itehadul Muslileem and Moulana Ghulam Rasool Hami, Chairman Karwane Islami were present in the meeting.
Editor-in-Chief Only Kashmir was also present on the occasion.(OK)

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AFGHAN MILITANTS CAN SNEAK INTO VALLEY: LT GEN HASNAIN

Srinagar Dec 16 (Only Kashmir): General Officer Commanding of Army’s 15 Corps, Lt General Syed Atta Hasnain on Wednesday said the withdrawal of American forces from Afghanistan can have impact on the security situation in J&K as the leftover militants can sneak into Kashmir. He said that in the past also when Russian forces withdrew from Afghanistan, some of the militants who were fighting against Russia had sneaked to this side and were involved in the militancy related activities in the state.

“The geopolitics of this region especially that of Afghanistan has impact not only on Pakistan but also in Kashmir. In this context, next two years will be influenced by the overall situation in Afghanistan,” Hasnain said on the sidelines of an ‘Awami Sunwai’ in Uri.
He said that army is ready to foil any infiltration bid and apprehensions of infiltration during the winter season from Uri sector are high as most of the areas of Machil, Karnah and Gurez witness high snowfall.

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GROWING US-PAKISTAN TENSION WORRIES KASHMIRIS

Srinagar, Dec 5 (Only Kashmir): In the wake of the NATO attacks in Pakistan that killed 28 soldiers, the common man in the Kashmir Valley is worried about the region's instability and its fallout here.
Kashmiris have always reacted with concern to political upheavals in Pakistan. What has increased the common Kashmiri's worries about Pakistan is the latest statement by its army chief, General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, authorizing ground soldiers "to retaliate with full force without fear of cost and consequences" if such an attack is repeated.
Worsening ties between the US and Pakistan and a statement by Pakistani Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani that there was no apprehension of an army coup in the country are being discussed by the locals these days with concern.
"If the US war against terror loses its support from Pakistan the region faces a grave situation. Believe it or not, the instability in Pakistan could have a serious fallout in Kashmir", said Javaid Shah, a local newspaper editor here.
The common man is keenly watching the developments and hoping things do not come to a showdown between the US and Pakistan.
"It is like an earthquake that has its epicentre somewhere in Pakistan. If Pakistan is jolted by political or security turmoil, we cannot escape the consequences.
"The entire prospect of peace in Kashmir depends upon the stability in the region and better relations between India and Pakistan. Unless the government there is in full control how can it engage in peace talks with New Delhi," a Nizam-ud-Din, 59, a retired school teacher here, told IANS.
When Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was hanged on April 4, 1979, there were violent protests in the Valley during which five persons were killed in police firing. Even the death of the Pakistan dictator, Gen. Ziaul Haq, in an air crash on August 17, 1988, caused law and order problems in Kashmir with protesters blaming the US for engineering the crash of the plane carrying him and the American ambassador.
"Emotions have always run high in Kashmir with the unfolding of events in Pakistan. Today, when that country is placed precariously vis-a-vis its relations with the US, the growing concern in the Valley is understandable. Nobody would benefit if Pakistan comes to harm," said Professor Muzaffar Ahmad, a college teacher here.
"The undermining of the political authority in Pakistan would definitely affect the future of the peace process between the two countries whose inevitable fallout could be the continuation of turmoil in the Valley," Ahmad told IANS.
As cable television networks beam commentaries and news about the strain in relations between the US and Pakistan, for a change Kashmiris remain glued to these programmes during the chilly winter evenings.(Inputs: IANS)

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ER. HILAL WAR SLAMS MIRWAIZ OVER THE MEETING WITH ER. RASHID

Srinagar Nov 22 (Only Kashmir): Questioning the mandate of the secret meeting recently held between Hurriyat (M) Chairman Mirwaiz Dr. Umar Farooq and Pro-India politician and member of assembly (Langate constituency) Er. Sheikh Rashid, Chairman People’s Political Party (PPP) Er. Hilal Ahmad War has asked that when Mirwaiz Umar Farooq maintained to stay away from the interlocutors appointed by the Government of India (GOI) in April 2011 and suspended former Chairman of APHC Moulana Abbas Ansari and even derecognized his party as a unit of Hurriyat (M) faction on the same grounds then, on what basis and grounds he held a secret meeting with Er. Rashid who also has accepted the constitution of India and is moreover a Pro-India politician. Er. War asked Mirwaiz that he ought to forward a justification and detailed explanation before the entire nation for this act and appealed the entire separatist leadership in general and Syed Ali Shah Geelani in particular to demand a detailed explanation from Mirwaiz.
In his press statement, Er.Hilal War revealed that a few days back Mirwaiz held an hour long closed door meeting with Er.Rashid. Expressing deep sorrow, agony and annoyance over this episode Er. War said that holding secret and back channel parleys with a pro-India politician was against the principles of separatist leadership and had even no room within the domain of Hurriyat Constitution. PPP Chairman further said that the regional Pro-India leaders and politicians were on their task of very craftily and cunningly vindicating the forceful and illegitimate occupation of Kashmir by India and were trying to the hilt and the edge to dilute the pious struggle of freedom in Kashmir, which was quite evident to everyone. He said Er.Rashid is a part and parcel of this vicious and evil conspiracy who masqueraded as pro-people just to dilute the impact of resistance leadership.
Taking note of sacking of Moulana Abbas Ansari and his Party from the membership of Hurriyat for meeting the GOI appointed Interlocutors by Mirwaiz, Mr. War said that Er. Rasheed adorned the constitution of India by contesting the elections and was doing his political tasks assigned to him by the GOI. War said, Why did not pro-freedom leadership including Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Shabeer Shah and others demand explanation from Mirwaiz and Company for the closed door secret meeting with Er. Rasheed which was organised and directed by Indian Intelligence Agencies. Questioning Mirwaiz, PPP Chief enquired as to why did he hold closed door parleys with Er.Rashid and what all discussions took place therein and said that Mirwaiz should clarify his stand; if a planning to field in proxy candidates in the elections was going on and had Er. Rahsid come to receive the blessings in that regard only. PPP Chairman further said that Hurriyat Chairman must aware the nation of all those issues and dialogues. Meanwhile Er.War asked Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Shabir Shah and other separatist leaders to enquire all these issues from Mirwaiz and endeavour to bring the reality on the forefront.
PPP Chairman further said that Er. Rahsid’s issuance of statements and slogans against the human rights violations of Kashmiris at the hands of armed forces merited no rationale as he himself stood up in the assembly elections conducted by the Election Commission of India further strengthening Indian Occupation of J&K and accepted the constitution of India by taking the oath to abide by the same and after doing all that he was doing a melodrama to gather sympathies of innocent Kashmiri masses and pretended to be a noble, pro-people and pro-Kashmir leader
Mr. War said if at all Er. Rashid felt sorry for projecting Indian hegemony over the territory of J&K including its people, he should openly tender an unconditional apology before the people of J&K and relinquish all his monetary and other benefits. He said in case he (Er .Rashid) really wanted to do something for the Kashmir cause and become the well wisher and sympathiser of the people in real sense he should quit the assembly and start his work as a foot soldier in the pro-freedom camp.
Er. War said if Mirwaiz has any plans of fielding proxy candidates, he shouldn’t ditch the nation and should come out in the open rather than patronising stooges like Er. Rashid.
Er. War asked Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Shabir Shah and other senior pro-freedom leaders to take a strong note of this incident and form a commission of enquiry to look into it.

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THE WEDDING KASHMIR STYLE

Harmonious Communal Harmony

Srinagar: It was the most pleasant when a crowd of Kahmiri Muslim women came out in streets in old Srinagar to receive a Pandit bride with their traditional wanvun, the Wedding songs.

The marriage took place early this week in Sheikh Mohalla in Maharaj Ganj area of Srinagar.

The bridegroom Bharat Bhushan expressed great pleasure over this unique gesture of Hindu-Muslim harmony. His bride Priti was also seen knowing nom bounds of her joy when Muslim women welcomed her with open heat and local folk songs.

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WHY KASHMIR HAS NO PRESS CLUB?

A question raised by Tahir Muzter

• IS KASHMIR JOURNALISTS A SELF-CENTERED LOT?
• ARE NOT THEY CONSCIOUS OF ITS IMPORTANCE IN RELATION WITH A NEED AND THEIR DIGNITY?
• IS THERE ANY RECORD WHEN THEY EXERTED THEIR POWER AND INFLUENCE JOINTLY TO GET A PRESS CLUB ESTABLISHED IN SRINAGAR?
• ARE THEY HAVE BEEN ALWAYS STRIVING FOR FLOW OF ADVERTISEMENTS.

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GOOGLE TEAM STARTED SEARCHING KASHMIR FROM UNIVERSITY OF KASHMIR

Srinagar Nov 02 (Only Kashmir): A top level team of senior executives from Google, USA visited the Business School, University of Kashmir and interacted with students and the faculty.

The team included, Ms. Mary Himinkool: Head of Global Entrepreneurship Outreach, Ms. Sonia Wadhawan: Senior manager, New Business Development, Mr. Divon Lan: Product Manager, Ms. Olivia Ma: Global Entrepreneurship Manager, Mr. Debu Pukayastha: Principal, New Business Development from Google, USA. The team was also accompanied by Mr. Andy Dwonch and Mr. Usman Ahmad from Mercy Corps.The team was received by the Director, the Business School and senior faculty members. The Director, Business School, Prof. Shabir A. Bhat in his welcome address termed the visit of senior executives from Google, USA a historic moment for the Business School as it provided an opportunity to the students and the faculty to interact with some of the best brains in the world, who are playing a significant role in shaping the future of global information communication technology.
The welcome address by the Director was followed by the interaction of the executives from Google team with the students and the faculty. Mr. Divon Lan: Product Manager, Google, USA, introduced his team and spoke extensively about Google and the world of information and communication technology Mr. Divon said that the information communication technology has greatly eliminated the physical and geographical barriers and made it possible for us to think of a world without any barriers. He further added that the future of the world is greatly dependent on web connectivity. Other members of the team shared their view with the audience about the future cutting edge technologies being developed by the Google. They also extensively talked about the operating systems developed by Google, such as android and other applications like Google Chrome and Google Plus. The members also shared their experiences about the work culture in Google, they said that the competence and capability is the only criteria at Google and persons from any background ethnic, cultural or national are welcome to work at Google. The team members also gave their perspective on processes initiated by Google to keep the client information secure and safe and to keep hackers at bay. The members also encouraged the students to think innovatively and creatively in order to be the business leaders of tomorrow. They stressed on the need to identify gaps in business and to develop successful and sustainable business models. The team members also threw light on how businesses could be promoted on social networking sites. The session was also followed up by question answers from the audience. Students enthusiastically participated in this session and asked some insightful and thought provoking questions.
The team members answered these questions with great expertise knowledge and patience. In their interaction with the students, the team members from Google greatly appreciated the talent and capability of the students.
In his concluding remarks Prof. Shabir stressed the need to strengthen the linkages between the academic institutions and world renowned corporate houses to groom the competent, capable and professional managers of tomorrow. He further added that interaction with distinguished team from Google, USA will ignite the spark among the capable and competent youth of our valley to dream bigger and to strive to achieve these dreams. Prof. Shabir also emphasized that in today’s world of communication and technology, Google has emerged as an organization that is shaping tomorrow’s world and is playing a pivotal role of empowering the people by providing information at the click of a button. Prof. Shabir also thanked Mr. Usman Ahmad, Head Mercy Corps, India for his support and his role in promoting entrepreneurship among the youth of the state and also appreciated the role of Mr. M. Ayub Shah, Placement Officer in coordinating these interaction programs.
Bilal Bashir Bhat, Editor-in-Chief Only Kashmir was also present on the occasion.

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HIZBUL MUJAHIDEEN ALMOST WIPED OUT IN KASHMIR

Courtesy: Times of India

New Delhi Oct 19 (Only Kashmir): Once the most formidable face of Kashmir militancy, Hizbul Mujahideen is slowly fading away as its remaining commanders and cadres are being taken out on a regular interval by security forces.

According to estimates available here, there is hardly over two dozen active militants left in HM, the biggest indigen ous militant group ever in Kashmir. Even the remaining militants have not resorted to any major action in months now. "They are

basically reduced to throwing occasional grenades or random firing, even those are very rare," a senior official said on the plight of HM.

Over the last few weeks, security forces eliminated or arrested many of the remaining HM operatives in the Valley. On October 13, Kashmir Valley's longest serving militant and one of the senior-most HM members, Mushtaq Killer alias Mustaq Janghi, was killed. In the same operation, another militant was killed while a third one was arrested.

A few days prior to the operation, security forces had arrested Mohammad Shafi, also known as Dr Dawood, believed to be the head of operations of HM in the troubled state. He, along with former operational chief Abdul Majid Dar who was killed in 2003, and HM's Pakistan-based chief Syed Salahuddin, were among the early members of HM who played a critical role in shaping the militancy that has raged for the past quarter century.

Started by Jamaat-e-Islami members who revolted against the 1987 rigged elections and other oppressive policies, HM grew into the dominant militancy group by the early 1990s, with almost full membership comprising of local Kashmiris. Though they had foreign hands, HM's dominant presence as a militant group of locals gave the Kashmir insurgency a completely local flavour and some amount of global justification.

In 2000, the group took the bold initiative of entering into a ceasefire with the security forces, but within weeks it was scuttled by powers that be in Pakistan. The ceasefire and subsequent talks with New Delhi's representatives catapulted Abdul Majid Dar, the then chief commander of HM in the state, into the limelight. Dar had by then resigned to the need for a peaceful settlement but his immediate superior Salahuddin, who has been based in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir for the past two decades, withdrew his endorsement of the ceasefire within days. Dar was later suspended from HM, and was shot dead in 2003.

Around the same period, ideological differences between other groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba, which now dominates Kashmir insurgency, also emerged. LeT had started launching suicide bombers (fidayeen) in 1999 but HM disagreed with the tactics. The Kashmiri group believed it was un-Islamic to give up life.

Long-time observers of Kashmir within the establishment point out that the slow death of HM is a sign of the disenchantment of the local population towards violence. But if New Delhi fails to seize the political space available to make lasting peace, a new kind of violence, more deadly and foreign cannot be ruled out, they warn.

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KASHMIR IS A PART OF INDIA, BHUSHAN IS WRONG: ANNA HAZARE

New Delhi 14 Oct (Only Kashmir): Anti-corruption crusader Anna Hazare on Friday distanced himself from Prashant Bhushan's remarks on Kashmir and said that the entire state was an integral part of India. Bhushan had earlier said that plebiscite should be carried out in Kashmir to determine its future.

Anna displayed his displeasure at Bhushan's comment and said, "Prashant Bhushan's views on Kashmir are wrong. We do not endorse Prashan Bhushan's statement on Kashmir. I will tell Prashant Bhushan that if he is giving an opinion on a subject, he can give it in his personal capacity. If he is giving the team's view, he should speak to the team before."

Anna also cleared his stand on the Kashmir issue and said, "My personal view is that Kashmir is an integral part of India."

Bhushan, an integral part of Team Anna, was brutally attacked on Wednesday for his remarks by three people - Tejinder Singh Bagga, Inder Verma and Vishnu Gupta.

Anna also added that future of the senior lawyer as a member of his team is in doubt following the controversial comments. "We will decide if Bhushan would be part of Team Anna," said Anna.

The 74-year-old also clarified that the Team Anna will only fight against corruption and for a strong Lokpal. "Team Anna will work to bring Jan Lokpal Bill and corruption free India," he said.

Bhushan's comments for plebiscite in Kashmir has also been criticised by Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray. Thackeray supported the Bhagat Singh Kranti Sena members who attacked Bhushan.

In an editorial in the Sena mouthpiece 'Saamna', Thakerey wrote that Bhushan's attackers were not rogues or thieves but were genuinely angered by Bhushan's comment on Kashmir and if their actions are widely criticised, so must be Bhushan's statement.

Thackeray also attacked Anna for criticising the violence but not commenting on Bhushan's statements on Kashmir. He said such people should get a dose of nationalism and supporters of Hindutva must show them how the torch of a revolution is lit.

Bhushan has, however, stood by his comments on Kashmir and claimed that merely expressing a view that is not liked by some sections of the society does not mean that the statements are seditious.

He said that fascist mindset was now increasingly being seen in several people and several organisations and added that if someone does not agree with any viewpoint then that person has every right to express his opposition, but that should not become a license to indulge in violence.

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