In a major step that could pave the way for the deportation of illegal Rohingya and Bangladeshi immigrants residing in Jammu and Kashmir, the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed all States and Union Territories to verify documents of illegal immigrants within their jurisdiction within a month.

As per official sources, those identified as staying illegally will be lodged in district-level detention centres, pending their deportation. The directive has triggered fresh action in Jammu and Kashmir, where thousands of illegal immigrants have settled over the years.

A Holding Centre was set up at Hiranagar Jail in Kathua district in 2021, where nearly 200 Rohingyas are currently lodged. However, no deportation has taken place from the facility so far.

Authorities have now begun fresh verification drives as per the MHA’s recent instructions. Estimates suggest there are around 10,000 Rohingyas residing across areas including Sunjuwan, Bhatindi, Trikuta Nagar, Narwal, Bhagwati Nagar, Janipura, and various industrial zones. Many among them have intermarried with locals and integrated into the population, complicating identification and deportation efforts.

This renewed push follows the recent deportation of Pakistani nationals living illegally in India. Several such individuals were deported via the Attari-Wagah border in Punjab, following the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, prompting a nationwide crackdown on undocumented foreign nationals.

Sources confirmed that a major drive was launched in Jammu in late 2023, resulting in FIRs against individuals who had rented out properties to Rohingyas. Most of these immigrants have been found to have entered India illegally from Myanmar, and many possess UNHCR cards.

Though no illegal Bangladeshi nationals were detected during the last verification campaign, intelligence reports suggest that around 1,000 Bangladeshis could be residing across the UT. These individuals are difficult to trace and are usually identified only through random checks, with arrests made under illegal border crossing charges.

Officials stated that Myanmarese nationals can be detained in Holding Centres before their deportation. The government is also considering deactivating documents such as Aadhaar cards, voter IDs, and ration cards illegally obtained by these individuals to curb misuse of public services.

As per police and intelligence figures, around 7,000 Rohingyas live in Jammu district alone, while unverified estimates place the total illegal immigrant population at nearly 13,700. Their numbers have reportedly surged between 2008 and 2014, owing to continued infiltration, local marriages, and natural population growth.

Authorities have also identified groups and individuals allegedly patronizing these settlements, and action is being initiated against those facilitating the integration of illegal immigrants.

While most Rohingyas are concentrated on the outskirts of Jammu city and in Samba, some families have reportedly moved to Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Rajouri, and Poonch, allegedly with help from sympathizing networks.

Over the years, many Rohingyas managed to open bank accounts, secure utility connections, and obtain Aadhaar, ration cards, and other official documents, embedding themselves into the local system.

The MHA directive is seen as part of a broader national strategy to address security and demographic concerns associated with the illegal settlement of foreign nationals in sensitive regions.

A man and his young daughter lost their lives in a tragic incident today as fierce winds swept across the Kashmir Valley, causing widespread damage and plunging several areas into darkness.

The fatal incident occurred in the Gadarchowgan Keller area of south Kashmir’s Shopian district, where Reyaz Ahmed and his daughter Sabia were collecting household items outside their home. A large tree, uprooted by sudden gusts of wind, collapsed on them, fatally injuring both. Locals said the tree fell without warning, highlighting the force and unpredictability of the storm.

The Valley experienced its strongest winds late Sunday, with gusts recorded in nearly every district. The Meteorological Department had earlier issued an advisory predicting wind speeds of 40–60 kmph along with thundershowers.
“The strong winds and temperature rise are due to a western disturbance,” said Pritam Singh, a MeT official. He warned that winds could persist through Monday evening, urging residents to avoid outdoor activities, especially near tin rooftops or trees.

Singh further cautioned about a potential heatwave from May 21 to 27, advising the public to stay updated through official bulletins and take necessary precautions.

Widespread Destruction Across the Valley

The storm wreaked havoc across multiple districts:

• Electric poles, tin roofs, hoardings, and trees were brought down in several towns, including Srinagar.
• In Soura, a communication tower collapsed onto a road, and the minaret of Jamia Masjid in Batpora, Chadoora, was damaged.
• At least five people were injured in Srinagar and Anantnag due to flying debris.
• In Pampore, a centuries-old Chinar tree was uprooted.
• Apple orchards in Budgam, Tangmarg, and Baramulla suffered significant damage.
• Several vehicles and structures were crushed by falling trees.
• Power and water supply were disrupted due to damaged transmission lines and pumping stations.

Despite the extensive damage, officials say restoration efforts are well underway. According to the Kashmir Power Development Corporation Limited (KPDCL), about 98% of the 33KV transmission network has been restored.
“Out of 1,295 feeders, over 1,150 are currently operational,” a senior official confirmed.

Disaster response teams have been deployed across affected regions to clear debris and restore essential services. The Divisional Commissioner noted that the restoration work is being conducted “on a war footing.”

Fire Safety Advisory Issued Amid Rising Temperatures

In light of the expected heatwave, the Fire and Emergency Services Department (Srinagar Command) has issued a fire safety advisory. Station in-charges have been directed to increase preparedness and raise public awareness.

Citizens have been advised to:

• Remove dry leaves from rooftops and premises
• Avoid overloading electric sockets
• Switch off electrical appliances when not in use
• Take extreme caution while cooking or using flammable materials

Farmers have also been urged to monitor stubble burning and avoid unsafe disposal practices.
“The department will conduct awareness drives to help prevent fire incidents during the intense summer months,” the advisory stated.

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan today visited the strategically significant military installations at Suratgarh in Rajasthan and Naliya in Gujarat. During his visit, he commended the armed forces personnel for their high level of operational preparedness and unwavering commitment to national security.

According to the Ministry of Defence, Gen Chauhan’s visit aimed at boosting the morale of the troops stationed in these critical regions, especially in the wake of recent military tensions. Notably, both bases were reportedly targeted by the Pakistani military during the recent confrontation between the two nations.

During his interaction with the soldiers, Gen Chauhan praised the synergy and coordination displayed by the Army, Air Force, and Border Security Force (BSF) during Operation Sindoor. He highlighted the need for the forces to remain ever-prepared to respond to emerging security challenges with “decisive force.”

The CDS was accompanied by Lt Gen Manjinder Singh, Army Commander of the South Western Command, and Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of South Western Air Command.

Gen Chauhan was briefed on the robust air defence systems and surveillance measures deployed in the region. Applauding the troops’ “exceptional valour and professionalism,” he appreciated their selfless dedication, resolute courage, and steadfast commitment in neutralising multiple threats from the western adversary.

Army Chief Visits Longewala, Applauds Troops for Operational Excellence

Meanwhile, Chief of Army Staff Gen Upendra Dwivedi visited the forward post of Longewala in Rajasthan today, where he interacted with troops of the Konark Corps and reviewed recent joint operations.

Officials said that the Army Chief congratulated the personnel for their “exemplary role” in the successful execution of Operation Sindoor. The operation involved coordinated action between the Indian Army, the Indian Air Force, and the BSF in response to enemy provocations following the May 7 retaliatory strike by India, which came after the terror attack in Pahalgam.

Gen Dwivedi reviewed the swift deployment of air defence systems and surveillance assets, which played a crucial role in blunting enemy drone incursions and maintaining dominance across the western front, stretching from Jaisalmer to Kutch.

“This calibrated and coordinated action has not only blunted enemy intent but also established a new normal in operational readiness and area domination,” a senior official stated.

The Army Chief also recognised the unwavering commitment of the troops deployed in the harsh desert terrain amid peak summer conditions, reaffirming the Indian Army’s resolve to defend the nation’s sovereignty with honour and resilience.

In a scathing attack on the BJP, Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) chief Tariq Hameed Karra today accused the ruling party of exploiting the bravery of the armed forces for political gain, claiming that Operation Sindoor is a matter of national security, not a political gimmick.

Addressing a press conference at the PCC office in Jammu, Karra condemned statements made by BJP leaders, including Madhya Pradesh Minister Vijay Shah and Deputy CM Jagdish Devda, as “insulting” to the valor and sacrifice of the Indian armed forces.

Karra emphasized that the armed forces serve the nation, not a political party, and should be respected beyond party lines. “The BJP’s attempt to hijack the glory of Operation Sindoor for electoral mileage is a dishonor to our jawans,” he said.

Congress Conducts Ground Visit to Border Districts

Flanked by Working President Raman Bhalla, Chief Spokesperson Ravinder Sharma, AICC Secretary Neeraj Kundan, and other leaders, Karra recounted his extensive tour of affected areas in Poonch, Rajouri, Jammu, Samba, and Kathua. He said the team visited Temples, Gurudwaras, and Mosques damaged by Pakistan shelling and met several victim families.

“Poonch is the worst hit,” Karra noted, adding that the civilian population was deliberately targeted by Pakistan, reflecting an “inhuman face.”

Demands for Martyr Status & Special Relief Package

Karra demanded martyr status for all who lost their lives in the Pahalgam terror attack and the recent cross-border shelling, including civilians. He criticized the government for denying the status even to Agniveers killed in action.

He also called for a comprehensive special package for border residents, which should include:

• Construction of bunkers and community shelters in populated areas
• Audit and upgrade of existing infrastructure
• Immediate interim relief for damaged homes
• Special recruitment drives for border youth
• Permission for self-defense weapons to border villagers

Karra reminded the media that the UPA Government had provided a ₹60 crore package for Chhamb border victims, suggesting that a similar initiative be extended to zero-line LoC areas.

Jai Hind Yatra on May 20

To honor the valor of Indian forces and unite people in national solidarity, Karra announced a ‘Jai Hind Sabha’ followed by ‘Jai Hind Yatra’ on May 20, starting 10:30 AM from Shaheedi Chowk to Indira Chowk, Jammu.

Karra Defends BJP Legislator Against False Accusations

He also defended a former BJP legislator from Poonch who was reportedly labeled a terrorist by a media outlet while helping the injured during a religious teacher’s killing. “Such journalism is shameful and dishonors a true martyr,” Karra said.

Nation United Against Terrorism

Karra hailed the spirit of Hindu-Muslim unity and the strong national support for the government’s action against terrorism. He urged Pakistan to stop targeting civilians and called Pahalgam carnage a “crime against humanity.”