PEACEFUL EID WAS OBSERVED IN KASHMIR AFTER A COUPLE OF YEARS

Srinagar, Oct 27 (Only Kashmir): Celebrating the Eid-ul-Azha, Muslims all over the world in general and in Kashmir particular, stood witness to the occasion where thousands of devotees thronged mosques, shrines and Eidgahs (prayer grounds) to offer Eid prayers. Barring a stray incident of stone pelting in old city, Eidul Azha was today celebrated with traditional fervour and gaiety across Kashmir valley. In reports of Stone Pelting were received today as compare to past many years. 

The biggest congregation of Eid Prayer was held at Eidgah Srinagar where nearly 30,000 people offered the prayers, where Hurriyat (M) chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was scheduled to address the occasion, following his house arrest his close aide and the senior member of Hurriyat (M) Hakeem Rashid strongly condemned the house arrest of Mirwaiz at his Nigeen residence, terming it as a direct interference into religious matters of the head priest. Mirwaiz was scheduled to lead Eid prayers at Eidgah, he added. 

According to Only Kashmir sources, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah offered Eid prayers at Dargah Hazratbal amongst thousands of Muslims.

Later, he interacted with people and shared Eid greetings and extended good wishes to them. The Chief Minister also prayed for peace, prosperity and progress of the state and the country.

Meanwhile Hurriyat (G) Chairman, Syed Ali Geelani, Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front Chief Muhammad Yasin Malik; Democratic Freedom Party Chairman, Shabir Ahmad Shah were put under house arrest by state authorities to prevent any public meeting.

Overall Eid was celebrated amid peace and religious fervor as compare to past many years. (OK)

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ATTENTION ALL INTERNET USERS

Only Kashmir, Oct 22 published from Srinagar

By:  Ajmer Alam Wani (Chief Editor: JK Monitor)
Face Book users, beware, you may fall in the trap of international blackmailers network, which is spread from Kashmir to London and Indonesia. It has been established that many youngsters have created fake IDs on Face Book, are trying to lure males all over, talking explicit sex and inviting them for immoral activities.
Earlier it was online lottery notifications and SMS on mobiles to trap people in which many have lost their hard earned money acting accordingly. Though this is still in practice but majority of the people have understood this by now and not getting influenced by such SMS and mails.
Interestingly, they give their number of Indonesia starting with (+62) or London starting with (+44) to those who are from India or Kashmir. And to those who are in London, US or other European countries they give Kashmir numbers starting with (9906 or 9596). It has been established that they are targeting working journalists, writers, police officers, businessmen and others who remain most of the time online.  According to Ajmer Alam’s monitoring they collect the addresses, phone numbers and family details from mutual friends and insists for collecting photographs but do not disclose their own identity. So be cautious and don’t get much excited, when some unknown girls talk to you so open, until you know them or you establish their identity.

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SRINAGAR MUNICIPALITY COMMITTEE FAILS TO REMOVE ILLEGAL STREET VENDORS

Srinagar Oct 22 (Only Kashmir): In a brazen act of official apathy, the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) and police are failing to check the menace of illegal occupation of the roadside venders near Lalchowk especially near Palladium.
All this has created a mess for the masses and offices located in the area it has become terribly inconvenient for staff and clientele to make an entry into the any of shops and offices located in the area which as such is completely chocked by the said vendors.
It is even alleged that SMC Employees and Police take bribe from the vendors for keeping their small beds on roadside and never bother to act against the same menace.
As a matter of fact, the illegal encroachment of footpaths by shopkeepers and street vendors is among the serious problems faced by the pedestrians of the Kashmir valley especially at crowded place like Lal-Chowk .Pedestrians, masses and businessmen hope authorities will now soon act on this serious issue.
It is worth pointing out that the handicraft business community has also protested several times against menace of street vending. Street vendors, who they alleged were defaming Kashmiri handicraft. The dealers held a recent protest demonstration appealing the authorities to take action against streets vendors occupying footpaths and sell “fake Kashmiri handicraft”.
Pertinently, Lal Chowk is one of the most popular shopping spots in Srinagar and the inability of authorities especially SMC to remove street vendors casts a great doubt on their overall efficiency. 

(Outputs: Kashmir Media Watch)

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OMAR OFFERS HELICOPTER TO GEELANI TO WITNESS PAHALGAM-AMARNATH TRACK STATUS

Srinagar, Oct 20 (Only Kashmir):- Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah today said that some people are bent upon disturbing peace and drag people into difficulties and hardships adding that his government is working to provide life comforts to people and they are out to use unfounded issues for trouble.“They try to create fear in the minds of people by using mikes and guns as peaceful situation does not suit to their style of politics”, he said “Syed Ali Shah Geelani is talking of agitation and issues calendar without looking into facts and ascertaining the truth”, he said adding that no road is being built from Pahalgam to Amarnath Cave. “It is all false propaganda. The papers submitted by the State Government in the Supreme Court and the order of the Apex Court itself substantiates and vindicates the fact that no road is being constructed in the said area”, he said adding that those indulging in this propaganda should go through 200 page document provided by the State Government to the Supreme Court in this regard and show us where there has been any talk of building a road. The Chief Minister threw open challenge to Hurriyat leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani in this regard “I will keep two helicopters of the State at your (Syed Ali Shah Geelani) disposal to fly over Pahalgam-Amarnath track. You select any photographer of your own choice and have a complete aerial view of the mountains and the track and show us where macadam is being laid even over a metre of the track”, he told Mr. Geelani and ridiculed the falsehood being circulated in this regard to disturb peace. He said that some people have made it their mission to create law and order problem for their benefit. “While we are working hard to restore peace and tranquillity, provide employment to youth, help trade and tourism activities to flourish and carry forward a comprehensive development programme across the State, they are bent upon disturbing tranquillity for their self interests”, he added and said that they have utilized all means in this regard and are in search of occasion to mislead people. (OK)
Reaction from Hurriyat (G)
“We have shown the evidences and they are proper. He (Omar) will only talk. He is a very cleaver politician because he knows Geelani will never fly in Indian Helicopter it’s just to showcase people that there is no construction going on.”
"If we are wrong they should bring some independent international agencies or team to look into the matter and we will also accompany them to the construction site” said Ayaz Akbar close aide of Syed Ali Geelani

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INDIA’S FIRST GLASS MOSQUE

Oct 15, Only Kashmir
Madina Masjid, an imposing and resplendent structure of glass dome and glass minarets, will formally open doors to devotees Thursday in Meghalaya's capital. The four-storey building - 120 feet high and 61 feet wide -- stands inside an Idgah Complex in the city's Lahan area and is close to the garrison grounds along the Umshyrpi river. At night, the mosque's glasswork glows and glitters. Madina Masjid has a capacity of around 2,000 people and has separate space for women to offer prayers. Around Rs.2 crore has been spent on the Masjid, with fund from well-wishers. Union Law and Minority Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid is scheduled to inaugurate Madina Masjid, along with Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs Vincent H. Pala, Oct 18. (OK)

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HOME MINISTER SHINDE ON LOCAL ROADS OF KASHMIR

Srinagar Oct 13 (Only Kashmir):- Giving a big setback to the common people of Kashmir Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde today accompanied by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and J&K Minister of State for Home Nasir Aslam Wani Saturday evening visited various areas in Srinagar city. They visited Lal Chowk, Polo View, Hari Singh Street, Jahangir Chowk, Sangermal Shopping Plaza and other places.  

 Earlier, the Union Home Minister made shopping at Polo View and purchased fruits at Jahangir Chowk. He also interacted with shopkeepers and commoners. 
Union Home Minister Mr. Sushil Kumar Shinde who is on 3-day visit to the Jammu and Kashmir today visited Hazratbal and paid obeisance at the shrine. He prayed for the peace, progress and prosperity of the country.
While talking to Media at Dargah Hazratbal the Union Home Minister said “It was my childhood wish to pray at Dargah.”
The Union Home Minister also went round the Dal Lake through Nehru Park basin, Kabutarkhana, Charchinari, Dal interiors and eventually he deboarded at Hazratbal.

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KASHMIR V/S SANGH PARIVAR

By: Tahir Muzter

After four years of   Amaranth Land Row (2008). This year once again right wing Hindu parties in India are going to spew poisonous misinformation campaign against Kashmir. This is not something unusual, but a usual course of dictum they have pronounced. They have in very clear words declared that they   will forcefully counter the propaganda allegedly unleashed by separatists; their supporters and valley based main stream political parties against the facilities being provided to pilgrims of holy Amarnath shrine by the Government. The leaders of various Hindu organizations, social activists and intellectuals who participated in a meeting organized by Baba Amaranth & Buda Amarnath Yatri Niyas (BABAYN) on this September to frame a roadmap to counter the   (alleged) propaganda against the yatra. We will not allow anyone to interfere in the religious affairs of Hindus reports “EARLY TIMES”, Jammu.  This is again politicization of Amaranth by   the right wing Hindu   parties, done in 2008, and   still remembered. by all ,    as a renowned   Jammu  based correspondent,  Bini  Joshi, has  very recently    wrote :  “ The  BJP  was playing politics with the sentiments of the  people, became very clear, when it fuelled  the Amarnath Land Row   in 2008”(GK)

What  Bino  Joshi    confessed now   a few days  back  ,  Kashmir    has  faced it very bitterly in 2008, and  is  going to  face again,  as the right  wing Hindu Parties  have chalked out   the   program  as mentioned   above. –Kashmir  talked  logic then,  when land was allotted  to the  Shrine Board, intriguingly, and  Kashmir is talking logic now , when  new political lovers of Amarnath ,  are pleading for  the construction of road ,or nationalization f the Amaranth Yatra  Route. But the fact is Kashmir was    always trampled, instead of giving Kashmir heed. 

Yes!    It is  Syed  Ali Shah  Geelani , who took  the stand  on  new  development of Amarnath  road  and   its expected  fall back.  But this too is a fact, that this time, Kashmir Civil Society, under the influence of highly enlightened Prof. Naeema Ahmad   who came with a   well-meaning resolution on the new development. 

What Kashmir’s fault is?  

What  wrong   Civil  society  of  Kashmir   did, and  what crime,  Mirwaiz Maulana  Omar Farooq,  Mohammad  Yassin Malik   or    Hurriyat  leader  Syed  Ali  Shah  Geelani    committed  against  Amrnath  Yatra,  or  yatries  or Hindus,   as alleged   by the  right wing Hindu  Parties.   It  is  nothing like that.  It  is   a   statement  issued  by  the  Mirwaiz Maulana Omar  Farooq , expressing   concern  on   big  danger   to   the   environment  ,while  Syed  Ali Shah  Geelani   took  a note   of   the    controversy on  Construction of  road to  Amaranth and   voiced    the people’s  concern   on the  issue. This  is for the first time, after 2008 Land Row on environment, that  Geelani  Sahib   felt the need   of   speaking   on   this issue ------- beyond   the ‘Freedom Movement’.  Certainly his stand on this important, has been welcomed   not by the people in general     but even by   the people    who differ   with    his ideology. This writer is    one among such people. Geelani’s   stand on protection of environment   is not being   appreciated   in Kashmir only but it is being welcomed    outside    Kashmir as well. 

Madhu Purnima Kishwar, a professor at the Centre for the Study of Developing Societies in Delhi and Founder of MANUSHI—an organization committed to protect democratic rights in India,  who is also   a member of   Kashmir Committee (Ram  Jaith  Malani ) has  congratulated Geelani Sahib for having voiced concern for the environmental damage being caused to the eco-sensitive zone due to the massive increase in the number of yatris that have begun visiting the Amarnath Shrine  now. I have personally seen how much garbage and filth, the Yatra generates, and how the extension of the Yatra to two months has caused further damage to the delicate ecology of the area.”

Madhu Purnima Kishwar ----in an open letter to Geelani Sahib in ‘tahlaka.com’   has said “On behalf of Kashmir Committee, I fully endorse your demand that just as 153 km area from Gomukh to Devprayag has been notified as an eco-sensitive zone by the Government of India, so also the area around the Amarnath shrine needs to be declared as an eco-sensitive zone. All those who value the Amarnath Shrine as a sacred site, should join hands with their Kashmiri brothers in preserving the pristine purity of the area.” She also admitted --------“You are also right in alleging that the creation of the Shrine Board by Faros Abdullah government was an ill conceived political move. However, the Board stayed within its limits till General Sinha as the Governor of J&K did all he could to communalize the Yatra as well as its management.  Your demand that the management of the Yatra be handed over to the Kashmiri Pandits of the Valley and that they along with their Muslim brothers take care of the needs of the yatris is a welcome suggestion, especially considering that Kashmiri Muslims have played a stellar role in ensuring that the yatris feel welcome and safe no matter how disturbed the conditions in the Valley. This well-meaning Indian lady, with a positive and constructive   approach has not hesitated to confess that ----- “While there is no denying that certain vested interests are using the Yatra as “a show of Hindu strength”.

But  she  added  “ it is wrong to attribute the growing numbers of Amarnath Yatris to the political games being played by Government of India or the Sangh Parivar. ‘’     She appealed   to    Geelani Sahib to resist the temptation of “politicizing” this issue to settle other scores with the Government of India.  This is the surest way to lose the environmental battle.’’

This appeal to Geelani Sahib is very positive. She also hoped that Geelani sahib will also extend his concern to the pathetic plight of rivers, lakes and the fast depleting forest cover in Kashmir.  The land that was once celebrated as a virtual paradise on earth has become an ecological disaster. ------ 

But her  interpretation or  clarification  of   Government Of India, and  Sangh  Parvar  on this  issue , is no  doubt  debatable.—which this  limited column   cannot accommodate .But  for a cursory  reference, this  writer   wants to  convey   her , on the basis of  my  4-years research, that  ,  soft ad Hard Hinduvata swooped down  on Kashmir   with  imposing ----economic  Blockade ---  a war crime   against Kashmir, in the  name Land  Row, in 2008. ----Its detail is very long, and dreadful.  The  fact is   that  the restoration of the land to Board, that  too  exclusively   on  the dictation of Jammu Sang rash Semite,--------and that too   after the  revocation of original  land transfer order , by the elected  Government  is  one sided, illegal, immoral, and comparative,  as declared  by  the renowned  constitution  expert A. G Noorani.  This too is  an open secret  and    a  naked  reality  that   800  kanals of   forest  land   was  transferred to the  Shri Amarnath  Shrine   Board , ,  illegally ,  clandestinely, and  in a consparative way------ with   one  mission   of   Shrine  Board  with  communal  minded  S k Sinha  as its  Chairman    to     make  the  yatra  bigger  and bigger with  every year, ignoring law of the land, the Kashmir ethos , environment, and other drawbacks  Because the mission is all political but in   the name   of religious   yatra.   Kashmir   has   enough  to prove   the  bigger  and larger  yatra as  a political  conspiracy------  One  simple  question in this regard is, which  helps  to understand   the   use of  majority  might  ,  and colonial  attitude with Kashmir. Why  the   criminal    double standard  in  Uttrakhand and  Kashmir.   ?

Tahir Muzter is a well known Journo of J&K, He has been the first Editor of the Daily Chinar & Nawa-e-Subah. Tahir Muzter is also known for his poetry, he is the Author of the book "Neelam Ghar" a collection of poetry in Urdu, Tahir Muzter is one of the content contribution to Only Kashmir. He can be reached at:  tahirmuzter.s@gmail.com 

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MOHAMMAD ASHRAF: ONE MAN ARMY

Jammu, Oct 11 (Only Kashmir), Ajmer Alam Wani

Born in an agriculturist family and joined the education department in the year 1986, a man with a mission had to travel 26 years long journey serving the department, to reach his dream chair as Chief Education Officer (CEO) Doda. Now one mission is accomplished and now he is on another mission from the day one after he joined as CEO Doda, he wants to streamline the derailed education system in Doda district by taking care of every need of students, people as well as teachers and other staffers.

In an exclusive interview with Ajmer Alam Wani, the dynamic Chief Education Officer (CEO) Doda, Mohammed Ashraf said that there are numerous problems likewise shortage of teaching / non teaching staff in the schools situated in far-flung areas of Doda and added that shortly “We are going to appoint/engage 189 teachers + 131 RETs already advertised in Socially and Backward areas and expressed hope that these teachers being well qualified will work with dedication and sincerity to uplift the education standard.

He also cautioned to go tough against the officials in CEO and ZEO officers found involved in favouritism and corrupt practices so the students do not suffer.

HERE ARE THE EXCERPTS FROM THE INTERVIEW

Q. The time when you joined the education department initially what was your dream that time and had you thought that one day you will become CEO that too of your home district?

ANS:   I joined the Education Department as lecturer in Physics in the year 1986 at HSS Dachhan with a sole dream to service the society as an effective teacher particularly for the betterment of students and at that time to reach upto this office was one of the dreams in my life. Today by the grace of almighty I have been blessed with the responsibility to serve as CEO Doda.

Q. What hurdles and problems you faced to reach this post and what challenges you think will come in your way ahead?

ANS:  It is natural phenomena to achieve a goal one has to face hurdles and problems but so far myself is concerned, no such hurdles and problems came forward to me to reach this post because of the transparent and good governance of the Govt.  There are number of challenges before me to streamlines the education system in District Doda but I will try to my best to come to the expectation of public with the cooperation of people of District Doda, District administration and the higher authorities.  

Q.  Having vast experience in education department, what you observed so-far about the education scenario in Doda district?

ANS:  In view of topography of District Doda being hilly district, there are numerous problems likewise shortage of teaching / non teaching staff in the schools situated in far flung areas. But shortly we are going to appoint/engage 189 teachers + 131 RETs already advertised in socially and backward areas and I hope my teachers being well qualified will work with dedication and sincerity / dedication to uplift the education standard.

Q. Do you agree that present education system in Doda district has been influenced by politics and corruption?

ANS: No. There is neither any illegal influence of politics in the education system in District Doda nor is any question of corruption in the education system.

Q.  What you suggest, and will act upon as CEO Doda to streamline the system and how you will ensure quality education in schools, particularly in far flung areas?

ANS: I as Chief Education Officer Doda suggest to the general public, political parties, panchayats, to cooperate with education department in positive manner to streamline the system. Moreover,   I will take the help of district administration, and my predecessors in this regard.

Q.  There are reports that clerical staff in CEO and ZEO offices, is involved in favouritism and corrupt practices due to which students are suffering badly and education system is derailed, will you be able to crack this deep rooted nexus or will ultimately surrender ?

ANS: I cannot speak on this question at this time because it is my first day as CEO Doda. But I assure if such reports found factual, this system cannot be tolerated at any cost and action in this regard shall be taken.

Q. The first major challenge for you will be posting of newly recruited teachers,  may be you face political pressure, influence and the as usual personnel relations also , how will you do justice to you chair while making new postings and what will be your priorities and criteria will you adopt while posting ?

ANS: Yet, the posting of newly recruited teachers is a hectic job for the office, because most of the selected candidates are female and vacancies/shortage of staff is in far flung areas , but this will be done after threadbare discussion with the Principals/ZEOs/ Headmasters keeping in view the need of staff/subject teachers in the needy schools.

Q. There are reports that before making new postings rationalisation will be done and old staff will be adjusted in cities, while the new will be sent to villages and other far off areas, but while releasing the list of teachers, it was clearly mentioned that these teachers will be posted against the clear vacancies and to fill those vacancies no transfer will be made, don’t you think rationalisation will be against the directions and contradictory ?

ANS: Rationalization process will be done in accordance with the norms set up by the higher authorities through a committee already constituted for the purpose. 

Q: There are many cases of attachments of RRTs, which earlier CEO was unable to check, will you take any stern action against such practices? 

ANS: So far as this question is concerned this will be checked only after having a meeting with the field functionaries and the action in accordance with the rules shall be taken. 

Q. What action will you take against the Pvt Educational institutions, not fulfilling the norms?

ANS:  Private educational institutions if found functioning in violation of the rules set up by the department, the stern action shall be taken against the defaulters. 

Q: At last what clear message you wish for teachers and students and parents? 

ANS: I being the son of soil as a Chief Education Officer Doda want to give a message through the medium of media to teachers to work with dedication, sincerity and honestly in the schools and do justice with the poor students. Moreover, they are also advised to maintain regularly, punctuality and discipline in the schools. At the same time I appeal to the parents to the students to cooperate to the teachers with a positive attitude .Because hard work is the key of success for the students to achieve the goal in life. 

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EX-MILITANTS ASSOCIATION CALLS ON GOVERNOR

Srinagar, Oct 10 (Only Kashmir): A deputation of the J&K Human Welfare Association, Centre for Peace, Development of Humanity and Rehabilitation of ex-Militants, Srinagar, called on Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, at Raj Bhavan here today.

The Governor gave a sympathetic hearing to the deputation comprising Mr. Mohammad Farooq Khan, Chairman, Human Welfare Association, Mr. Nazir Ahmad Wani and Mr. Mohammad Sidiq Khan, Executive Members of the Association which urged, interalia, for various measures being taken to rehabilitate the ex-militants. The Governor agreed to take up the problems of this Association with the Chief Minister. (OK)

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OMAR ABDULLAH LAUNCHES FM CHANNEL-2 OF RADIO KASHMIR

Srinagar, Oct 06 (Only Kashmir):  – Giving full credit to Radio Kashmir and Doordarshan Kendra, Srinagar for braving challenging circumstances and keeping the duo broadcasting and telecasting stations functional during bad times, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Saturday said that the staff and officers had to pay heavy price for the same.

            Speaking at a function after he launched 10 MW FM Channel-2 of Radio Kashmir, Srinagar here this morning, the Chief Minister referred to the difficulties faced by the two stations to run their programmes and kept people abreast with the facts during the militancy.

            “You became the voice of people and worked for showing light to them in dark days”, he said and mentioned the stupendous work rendered by Radio Kashmir and Doordarshan for restoration of normalcy and peace.

            Describing launch of FM Channel-2, yet another step of Radio Kashmir to enhance its reach and provide good entertainment to the people, the Chief Minister said that there is greater potential for encouraging private FM stations in the State. He expressed the hope that Radio Kashmir and Doordarshan would focus on producing more informative, educative and attractive programmes for the general public benefit. He mentioned Shahrbeen programme of Radio Kashmir and appreciated its production.

            Omar Abdullah said that Jammu and Kashmir is abode of different cultures and languages, as such, Radio Kashmir and Doordarshan has to reach to every area and formulate programmes in different languages. “I am happy to note that the programmes presently broadcasted and telecasted take care of this requirement”, he said emphasizing the need for its further upgrading and improvement.

            The Chief Minister said that the reach of Radio Kashmir is quite enormous. “I have been told that people across the border also like listening programmes of Radio Kashmir which is of significant importance. You can touch the hearts of people across the border by providing balanced and fact full programmes to them”, he maintained.

            Legislator, Jahangir Mir, CEO Prasar Bharti, Jawahir Sarkar, Director General Doordarshan, Tripurari Sharan, Director General All India Radio, L. D. Mandloi, All India Youth Congress President, Rajiv Sadhav, officers and staff of Radio Kashmir and Doordarshan were present on the occasion among others. (OK)

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FACEBOOK TENSION GRIPS YOUTH OF VALLEY

By: Bilal Bashir Bhat

  After the release of recent anti-Islamic video by a western scoundrel which sparked violent protests throughout the Muslim world that resulted the deaths of dozens including the U.S. ambassador to Libya, Christopher Stevens. Even the railways minister of Pakistan, Ghulam Ahmad Balor, said he would pay the reward of £60,000 out of his own pocket to one who will kill the filmmaker. 

Meanwhile Kashmir also witnessed the strong protests against the filmmakers, US and Israel, a daylong complete strike was observed throughout Jammu and Kashmir, Demonstrators burned U.S. flags and demanded filmmakers be punished, Authorities imposed curfew in some parts of Srinagar, a Government vehicle was torched, however fortunately no loss of life was reported during the protests.  

Every Muslim of Kashmir was demanding the ban on Youtube, where the blasphemous video was available for every user who may wish to watch or download.  Later the video was blocked in various countries including India, after the White House denounced the film. 

Here in Kashmir, the most popular social media sites Facebook and Twiiter were found full of Anti America & Israel content which was uploaded by Lakhs of people to register their protest against the same. Every user was demanding the ban on Youtube. Even the Cabinet led by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah also denounced the video. 

Finally the attention was diverted following the ongoing T-20 world cup in Sri Lanka, now the same Facebook walls of same users was full of content supporting favorite cricket team mostly Pakistan. 

But hours after the President Pranab Mukherjee’s arrival here in Kashmir on 26th September, Government by some unknown reasons ordered Internet-service providers to block social networking websites such as YouTube and Facebook. However some people can access Facebook as well as YouTube on their mobile phones, while Facebook can sometimes be opened on laptops and computers via broadband, but this access comes and goes. 

Reacting to media reports, Minister for Information and Technology Aga Ruhullah, however, denied any attempt to crack down on free speech in Kashmir. “We are liberal as before,” he said. “But it is the right of every government to control a bad situation.”

“It is due to the ban imposed on Facebook and YouTube…We are sorry, but the sites are barred till further orders by Government,” a Tata Docomo customer care executive told this writer during a conversation on phone.

In the present modern times, Facebook is an inexpensive form of communication with friends and relatives throughout the world. But after the blockage of Facebook, frustration among youth including this writer can be identified easily. 

Every youth of Kashmir addicted to Facebook seems helpless against the uncertain orders of blockage of Media Networks by state Government, where SMS service is already blocked for the last two years. 

Finally, being a Journo I would like to request State Assembly members for a discussion in Assembly regarding the blockage of Facebook as this matter is same related to almost every household like the Gas subsidy.

(The writer can be reached at: bilalbashirbhat@gmail.com)

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LASHKAR-I-TOIBA INVOLVED IN BURNING OF SHRINES IN KASHMIR: POLICE

Srinagar Oct 02 (Only Kashmir): According to Police sources Only Kashmir received here the Lashkar Toiba (LeT) has been found involved in the burning of Baba Haniefu din Zairat at Ratsuna in Beeru and a mosque in Narbal Magam. Police has busted a LeT module by arresting six militants which has been found involved in the burning of two religious places in district Budgam.
The module was comprising of the militants, Zahoor Ahmad  Khan @Zubair, Barkat Ahmad Malik @Abu Talha, Assadullah Dar@Assad, Aijaz Ahmad Dar@Imran, Rouf Ahmad Dar@Rafeeq and Farooq Ahmad.
Among them one has recorded before the judicial magistrate that he was directed by the Lashker militants in Pakistan to burn the religious places to ignite an agitation like that of 2010.
According to police, the investigation is going on in the Dastgeer Sahib fire at Khanyar. (OK)

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HURRIYAT (M) CHAIRMAN MIRWAIZ UMAR MEETS ZARDARI

Srinagar Sep 29 (Only Kashmir): Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Chairman of All Parties Hurriyat Conference met with Pakistan president Asif Ali Zardari here on the sidelines of UNGA session on Friday evening. Foreign Minister Pakistan Ms. Hina Rabbani Khar, Pakistan’s Ambassador to the US, Sherry Rehman were also present during the meeting.
Zardari during the meeting with the Mirwaiz reiterated Pakistan's principled stance to continue extending all political, moral and diplomatic support to the Kashmiri brethren, who have rendered countless sacrifices for upholding their dignity and freedom, pleading for equity and justice and the fulfillment of the promise for the effective exercise of their right to self-determination, as envisaged in the relevant UN resolutions.
The President of Pakistan reiterated his call to the international community to focus its attention towards the plight of Kashmiri people, who have been waging a legitimate struggle for their right to self-determination over six decades, despite sufferings huge losses and human rights violations. He fully endorsed the view that without the participation of the Kashmiri leadership in the dialogue process, India and Pakistan cannot address the Kashmir problem.
Chairman APHC Mirwaiz Umar Farooq thanked the President of Pakistan for his for the support extended to the people of Jammu and Kashmir in their struggle for self-determination. (OK)

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18TH CONVOCATION OF KASHMIR UNIVERSITY: LET A NEW DAWN EMERGE, SAYS PRESIDENTS, MIRWAIZ REMAIN ABSENT, VALLEY SHUTS

Srinagar Sep 27 (Only Kashmir): On his first visit to Kashmir as President, Pranab Mukherjee on Thursday said no problems are ever resolved by violence and the healing process must be nurtured with love, compassion and patience while important issues need speedy resolution.
 Touching on the urgent need for greater tolerance in society, he said there are grievances and many important issues need deft handling and speedy resolution.
"The government of India and the state government of J and K are determined to ensure that every Kashmiri lives with dignity having equal rights and equal opportunities," he said in his address at the 18th convocation of University of Kashmir.
Addressing the students, Mukherjee said he would like to take this opportunity while being among the "bright, young" people to highlight the relevance and urgent need for greater tolerance "in our society".
"No problems are ever resolved by violence. It only aggravates the pain and the hurt on every side. The healing process must be nurtured with love, compassion and patience," he said.
Jammu and Kashmir Governor N N Vohra, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Vice Chancellor Talat Ahmed were among the host of dignitaries present on the occasion.
"I am aware that there are grievances. Many important issues need deft handling and speedy resolution," the President said.
He said India of tomorrow, achieved through inclusive growth, offers enormous opportunities for the youth of Kashmir if they only seize them.
"Do not lose any more time. The whole world is rapidly transforming itself. We in India should not be left behind.
The contributions of young Kashmiris are critical for India's advancement to progress.
"Let the dark days of violence and conflict be left behind. Let a new dawn emerge. It is the time to move ahead with faith in our collective future and confidence in the largest democracy in the world, where rule of law prevails, robust institutions function and the Constitution serves as the Supreme Law," Mukherjee said.
He said let Jammu and Kashmir lead the way in the building of a new future for India. Let it set an example to the rest of India and the world by showing how the entire region can be transformed into a zone of peace, stability and prosperity.
"Let Jammu and Kashmir regain its historical role as a center of learning, a place frequented by saints and religious scholars, a land known for its diversity and harmony, a fulcrum of trade and commerce with our neighbours," he said.
The President said institutions of higher education, with their emphasis on sound value systems and character building can play an effective role in developing a greater sense of responsibility and a rational approach to all issues.
"In this context, the duty of teachers is to inculcate in their students a balance -- of knowledge and skills with the moral and aesthetic values," he said.
Mukherjee also called upon the youth of Kashmir to take the lead in forging the future of our nation. In every field of activity -- be it business, industry, trade, education or culture, India is a nation on the move.
"A billion people marching forward led by the ideas, enterprise and energy of its predominantly young population," he said.
"I am confident that the young people of India will build a strong and powerful nation -- a nation that is politically mature and economically strong, a nation whose people enjoy both a high quality of life as well as justice, fundamental rights and equality," he said.
'I CONDEMN THE ANTI-ISLAM OFFENSIVE VIDEO'
President Mukherjee also condemned the offensive video on Islam made in the US and its dissemination through social media.
"I condemn in the strongest of terms the making of the offensive video and its dissemination through social media. India can never condone any act which disparages religious sentiments or hurts religious feelings," he said.
The President was reacting to a media query and to local sentiments which also found expression through advertisements in local newspapers in which he was urged to denounce the film.
"The Ministry of External Affairs is in touch with the US officials who share our concerns on the matter. Google India has in compliance with Indian law, blocked access to the offensive material," he said.
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq remain Absent.
Meanwhile Mirwaiz Umar Farooq remain absent as some media reports had earlier speculated that Mirwaiz might receive his PhD degree from President, Pranab Mukherjee during the convocation, in October 2010, Mirwaiz was conferred the PhD degree for his thesis on a book on political thought in Islam by famous saint Mir Syed Ali Hamdani, popularly known as Amir-e-Kabir in Kashmir.
STRIKE HITS NORMAL LIFE
Meanwhile normal life in Kashmir was today disrupted due to a strike called by separatist groups to protest President Pranab Mukherjee's visit even as an independent MLA held a sit-in to draw his attention towards the mercy plea of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru. Shops, schools and business establishments remained closed due to the strike called by hard line Hurriyat Conference leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani and supported by several other separatist groups. (Only Kashmir)
With some inputs from PTI, Rediff

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KASHMIR, THE SYMBOL OF UNO FAILURE: ZARDARI

New York, Sep 26 (Only Kashmir): Kashmir remains a symbol of the failures of the U.N. system, says Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari. He made this remark on the disputed region bordering India while addressing the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Tuesday.
Zardari affirmed Pakistan's resolve to support the rights of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, which remains to be the bone of contention between the two countries since their partition in 1947.
"Kashmir remains a symbol of the failures, rather than strengths of the U.N. system. We feel that resolution of these issues can only be arrived in an environment of cooperation," he told the 67th session of the General Assembly on the first day of its annual General Debate.
Zardari linked Pakistan's strides towards democracy and peace to its role at the United Nations which, he said, necessitated reform to better reflect democratic principles.
"The U.N. represents our common aspirations for peace and development," he said. "However, it needs reform. The U.N. system must become more democratic and more accountable. Reform should be based on consensus and democratic principles,"  according to the Pak leader. (OK)

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AN OPEN LETTER TO MUFTI MOHAMMAD SAYEED BY TAHIR MUZTER

Srinagar Only Kashmir 22 Sep 2012
My Dear Mufti Sahib 

I think, I need not introduce myself   to you. Yes, the only difference ‘’Tahir Muzter”, then and now is--- I have now grown old.  My age now demands rest, but my political   consciousness     instigates me to   continue with writing. What I write now-   it is more as a son of Kashmir than as a   journalists. It is not without a reason.    2008, when  soft   and hard  Hindutva, swooped   down on  Kashmir, with  a  war  crime  “ECONOMIC BLOCKED”, I  came to know,  that  Kashmir  has virtually became  a  colony, that  too under he  cover of  democracy, and  it is at the verge  of becoming   a  new  Palestine , when  we study the  situation  with serious thought, 

Today I am addressing you, ,  as    I  said as a son of Kashmir , knowing   that  you   are the leader   of   the big, only   large opposition party in Kashmir –PDP,   undoubtedly with good public following. -------YES!  Mufti Sahib,    You are    well aware   that Amarnath is again in news.  Road or no   road.  But the    controversy is afresh.  Alarming apprehensions   of destruction of ecological situation. and  also  un-bridled  powers  to  the  Shrine  Board    are   under discussion  in  Kashmir  To  express their concern, the  people  0f   Kashmir observed  Hartal  on  4th instant  on the  Call of  Syed  Ali   Shah  Geelani, though   he did not take  notice of  this  dangerous situation    during  Amarnath  Land Row in  2008,  when he and   Mirwaiz   dominated    the scene.  But now, he too   see   situation alarming ------But why not you and your Party.

After Amaranth Land Row in 2008,     this time too as usual ‘’ Kashmir’s logical voice’   has again irked, right wing   Hindu Parties. They have warned not only the   separatist leaders only but    the regional mainstream parties too.           This is not   a mere   assumption something but they have declared in clear terms. —--------------“The Hindu bodies will forcefully counter the propaganda unleashed by separatists, their supporters and valley based main stream political parties against the facilities being provided to pilgrims of holy Amaranth shrine by the Government’’(Early Times, Jammu). 

The leaders of various Hindu organizations, social activists and intellectuals who participated in a meeting organized by Baba Amaranth & Buda Amaranth Yatri Niyas (BABAYN) on Saturday to frame a roadmap to counter the propaganda and misinformation campaign launched by the separatists of Kashmir valley, as they   put it. --- “We will not allow any one to interfere in the religious affairs of Hindus.”  (Early Times, Jammu)

All this clearly means that   KashmirisOr their leadership    will   not be allowed, to raise their voice   to protect   their interests of the people. They are talking again in terms of their mussel power   and their   majority-might.  In this situation, 2008 situation cannot be ruled out ---- In this situation   another blockade against Kashmir     can not be ruled   out.      If  the people  of  Kashmir  will go ahead   to raise  their voice , they  will , be as usual, dubbed  as   IslamisT5S, as separatists , as  militants and    Pakistanis----  This  is what happened in 2008.  

In   this situation Kashmiries   have the right to ask    you and your party ----as to why you and you party is mysteriously silent   on   the new development. YES! Kashmir’s eyes   are on you----because  they don’t  expect  even a Paper- statement    from  National  Conference  or Congress.----Whereas the  National  Conference  Government is factually  founder of this  serious trouble the Congress   has  been  a  collaborator  Congress  in  this  big conspiracy---And  you are  the  eye  witness to  al this----    but  still    mysteriously  silent-------------Why. Kashmir Want to know.

You are  the   first  man in  Kashmir,  who  had  understood the gravity  of the  issue  You  only  can  well understand,  the gravity ,of the issue,  when you were asked to keep mum , with  regard   to the the    extension of  yatra   duration   even as the elected  Chief Minster of the State ---- What  you desired   at that time  was mainly an administrative   viewpoint    or requirement.  But you   were made to surrender by Delhi, and Sangh lobby there.   You were   also heading the unified headquarters and the security agencies at that time. And even then you are mysteriously   silent. 

You  are the  first   chief Minister---who   has faced  the wrath  of   the  Chairman  of he  Shrine Board---And   out of  power , your political  expediency should not have barred you  from opening  you min  on he issue.

I   only   want to remind you   when finally   you bowed against, congress or Delhi pressure.   The then Governor –Chairman of the Shrine Board   S.K. Sinha prolonged Yatra and made it bigger and bigger with every passing year. Sinha challenged your writ and authority, but    you failed to resist in time and gave vent to your feelings publicly only when the people came on the streets. Had you resisted   the   Sinha’s dictatorial approach and his attempts to trample the rights of the State  under his foot  and taken the people into confidence on  this delicate issue,   no  transfer  of land would  have  been there    and              certainly  no land row would  have  followed   It would   have demoralized the  overambitious  Governor Lt. Gen. (Ret )S  K SINHA.   It was too easy for you at that juncture of the time. —but it needed guts or at the worst   sacrifice, which is unknown to all Kashmir rulers and leaders.

RE-LOOK AT THE   LEGISLTON OF SHRINE BOARD 

However that is past.     I know it is all in vain to discuss   it now. I mentioned it here, just to link   the events with the situation, prevailing today.  But Kashmir remembers   your promise,   made in view of the mass upsurge against the land transfer.  You      stressed the need for having a re-look at the legislation that led to the creation of SASB  under  the shadow  of   seriously flawed  Shrine Act of 2000  , but latter  did not  opt to  utter a word in this regard even not outside the Assembly after the elections were   over.    your    Dy. Chief Minister(PDP) in the   the  Azad  Government  Muzaffar Hussain  Beigh  in a big    crowded   press conference also promised that   in the next assembly session he would bring an amendment bill  in this   regard   But opted not talk about the issue   even casually thereafter.

Today ,  when a  new situation   has  emerged   ad  re-awakened     the people of  Kashmir ,    about    the    role  of tee  Shrine  Board , as the new   “EASD INDIA COMPANY- why    your   good self   and your party   is mysteriously      and  conspicuously silent. ------ With no opinion, with no   view point 

AFTER ALL WHY--????? WILL YOU    KINDLY     COME OUT WITH A STATEMENT----- WHAT   WILL BE YOUR LINE OF ACTION TO SAVE KASHMIR? –WHY CRIMNAL   DOUBLE STANDARD IN KASHMIR   AND   UTTRAKAND-----DONT YOU FEEL NEED TO RAISE VOICE AGAINST THIS CRIMNAL    DOUBLE STANDARD ----?     

Tahir Muzter is a well known Journo of J&K, He has been the first Editor of the Daily Chinar & Nawa-e-Subah. Tahir Muzter is also known for his poetry, he is the Author of the book "Neelam Ghar" a collection of poetry in Urdu, Tahir Muzter is one of the content contribution to Only Kashmir. He can be reached at:  tahirmuzter.s@gmail.com

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KASHMIR SHUTS TO PROTEST ANTI-ISLAM VIDEO, VEHICLE TORCHED

Srinagar Sep 18 (Only Kashmir): Complete Shutdown was today observed in almost every nook and corner of Kashmir against the Anti-Islamic film. Attendance in government offices, colleges Universities was low because of the non-availability of public transport in the city and other major towns of the Valley.
The Strike was called by MUAS following the support of both faction of Hurriyat, J&K High Court Bar Association, World Islamic Students League (WISL) led by Jameel Ahmad War, Karwani Islamiya led by Ghulam Rasool Hami and many other political and Islamic organizations of Kashmir.
 According to reports Only Kashmir received here peaceful Marches were taken out at many places across the Valley against the blasphemous movie clips. Groups of people staged peaceful marches at Pampore, Nunar Gandarbal, Kangan, Langate Handwara, Chadoora, Sheeri, Uri, Mir Gund, Pattan, Lal Chowk Anantnag, Pulwama, Nowpora, Khanyar , Ziyarat Dastgeer Sahib, Habba Kadal, Kawdara, Noor Bagh, Kral Khud, Safa Kadal in Srinagar city. Meanwhile, members of Muttahida Ulema Ahli Sunnat wal Jamaat headed by Abdul Hamid Haqani staged a peaceful protest near Sonawar. 
Meanwhile a large group of Journalists marched from Press Enclave Srinagar to Ghanta Ghar at Lal Chowk to register their protest and resentment over the video.
The journalist fraternity has strongly condemned the act and demanded immediate removal of video from internet and arrest of the culprits.
However, a mob near Sangarmal Shopping Complex, Srinagar set ablaze a Gypsy bearing registration number JK18/0070 of Kulgam Municipality. Reports of Stone Pelting were also received from Saraf Kadal, Maisuma, Habak Tengpora Bypass. (OK)

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KASHMIR REACTS OVER ANTI ISLAMIC VIDEO

Srinagar Sep 14 (Only Kashmir): Despite being detained all Pro-Freedom leaders by state authorities the Valley today witnessed the peaceful protests from every nook and corner. Following the Protest Call by Hurriyat (G) Chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani and Islamic Students League Chairman Jameel War’s after Friday congregation prayers. The valley today joined the almost 54 Muslims countries to register protest against the video containing disrespect to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) sponsored by some western countries.
Kashmiris in large numbers protested against the blasphemous film in Masjids, Khanqahs, Imam Barahs. Imams and Khatibs also delivered speeches castigating the film makers and denouncing the film. Facebook and Twiiter are among the social media network sites here in Kashmir were full of protesting content was found against the said video.  According to Only Kashmir sources the highest gathering of people registering protest was found here in Kashmir’s Historical Jamia Masjid where agitated protestors gathered outside the Masjid and shouted anti-US slogans as they burnt U.S. flags in protest against the anti Islam film. The chief clerk of Jamia Masjid Mirwaiz Umar Farooq remained out of protest as the state authorities put him house arrest this morning.  Policemen were deployed in and around downtown to prevent any untoward incident from reoccurring. 
According to our reports received here protests were also held in Maisuma led by PPP activists, Hazratbal, Alamgiri Bazaar, Abi Guzar, Sarai Bala, Hyderpora, Shopian town, Jamia Masjid Pulwama, Baramulla Wakoora, Budgam, Beerwah, Charar-i- Sharief and Bandipora and some many other places in Srinagar and District head quarters, in Anantnag Kashmir a protest rally was carried out led by Hurriyat (M) Executive Member Mukhtar Ahmad Waza followed by his condemnable address towards a large gathering present there.
Earlier, dozens of local lawyers boycotted the courts in the city and carried out a protest march in the Civil Lines area here, followed by Kashmir University students started marching in the campus shouting slogans of ,”Amrika ke aiwano ko aag lagado lagado”,”super power one Allah la ilaha illalah”,”yanha kya chlega nizame Mustafa”,
According to Police statement a few incidents of stone pelting were reported from Maisuma, Nowhatta and old town Baramulla after the Friday prayers. However No one was wounded.
Meanwhile the state government has asked the union telecommunication ministry to block the blasphemous video on YouTube, stating that its carriage is likely to create law and order problems in Jammu and Kashmir. (OK)

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HILAL WAR ARRESTED TO PREVENT FRIDAY PROTESTS

Srinagar, Sep 14 (Only Kashmir): In a late night raid on War House, Maisuma, a police contingent led by SHO Maisuma, arrested People’s Political Party (PPP) Chairman, Engineer Hilal Ahmed War. According to the party spokesman, War had finished his late night prayers and was preparing for some usual daily reading. The arrest is seen as a pre-emptive measure to thwart any possible protests on Friday by the activists of PPP against the controversial American film that has offended the Muslims worldwide. Social websites are full of angry responses from Muslims all over the world who are not only demanding an apology by the producers but also a complete ban on the screening of the movie. The film - Innocence of Muslims - that is alleged to be carrying blasphemous content has hurt the Muslim sentiments, attracting huge criticism, mostly by Islamic groups and individuals. Nigeria and many other countries have issued a nationwide security alert to forestall incidents of violence. The controversy has already turned bloody and led to an attack on two American embassies by mob which has resulted in the death of one American ambassador. Jammu and Kashmir being a Muslim majority state and highly sensitive towards matters like these is always prone to violent clashes and demonstrations. In the past too, such incidents have sparked widespread violence in Kashmir and led to the deaths of many people. (KMW)

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MIRWAIZ UMAR FAROOQ LIKELY TO RECEIVE AN AWARD FROM PRESIDENT PRANAB MUKHERJEE

Srinagar, Sept 12 (Only Kashmir): Chairman of the moderate faction of the Hurriyat Conference Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has not yet made up his mind about receiving his PhD degree from President Pranab Mukherjee. The President is likely to be the chief guest at the annual convocation of the University of Kashmir on September 27.

Keeping in view the political fallout of accepting an award from the President, there is every likelihood that the Mirwaiz may not attend the function at all.

The Mirwaiz was conferred a doctorate in 2010 by the University of Kashmir for doing research on political thought in Islam under the guidance of Prof Naseem Ahmad Shah of the Department of Islamic Studies.

The Mirwaiz, who has registered himself for the university convocation, figures among the list of PhD scholars nominated by the university for receiving the awards (preferably a gold medal and a citation) from the chief guest.

“Yes, he has registered for the convocation. There are chances that he might participate in the event,” said a Hurriyat source. “He has not yet made up his mind yet,” the source said.

Despite repeated attempts, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq was not available for comment. Officials of the university said the Mirwaiz has registered himself for the convocation. 

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