In a significant move aimed at promoting women’s welfare and enhancing public transportation, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Chowdhary today launched a free bus service for women across the region.

The initiative includes both electric buses and Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) buses, ensuring safe, accessible, and cost-free travel for women, including working professionals, students, and daily commuters.

The launch event in Jammu was attended by the Commissioner of Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) and senior officials from the concerned departments. The Deputy CM flagged off the service, marking the fulfillment of another key promise by the government.

Government’s Commitment to Women’s Welfare

Speaking at the event, Deputy CM Surinder Chowdhary reaffirmed the government’s dedication to addressing public concerns and improving essential services in Jammu and Kashmir.

“Since the formation of the present government, we have worked tirelessly to fulfill our promises, including restoration of statehood, protection of jobs and land, provision of free electricity, and now this free bus service for women,” he stated.

He further emphasized that the initiative aims to alleviate travel burdens faced by women while fostering their empowerment and security in public spaces.

Simplified Process for Women Passengers

During the flag-off ceremony, the Deputy CM interacted with women passengers, highlighting the government’s continued efforts to resolve longstanding regional concerns.

To avail the free bus service, women are only required to show their Aadhaar card to the bus conductor while boarding any government-operated bus, including e-Buses. Additionally, JKRTC has introduced POS machines, allowing conductors to register passengers by entering their Aadhaar details.

A Step Towards Inclusive Mobility

This pioneering initiative is expected to set a benchmark for women-centric policies in Jammu and Kashmir, promoting greater mobility and independence for women while ensuring safe and efficient public transport services across the region.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha stated today that there is no longer a need for the United Nations office in Srinagar, citing significant improvements in the situation. However, he clarified that the decision falls under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of External Affairs.

In an interview with a national news channel, Sinha responded to a query on whether the UN office should be shut down as the focus has now shifted to Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). “This matter is not within my domain; the External Affairs Ministry is best positioned to address it,” he said, adding, “But there is no need for a UN office in Srinagar anymore.”

Governance, Development, and Investments

The Lieutenant Governor emphasized that his administration has maintained good relations with the government. “Before an elected government is in place, our agenda is peace, development, investment, and job creation. If an elected government aligns with the same objectives, there will be no issues,” he asserted.

Asked to assess Omar Abdullah’s government, Sinha remarked that four months is too short a time to form an opinion. However, he affirmed a positive working relationship with the elected administration. He highlighted that under the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, the powers of the Lieutenant Governor and the elected government are well-defined. “Both have their respective roles. Together, we can drive Jammu and Kashmir further towards progress,” he said.

Over the past five to six years, he noted, Jammu and Kashmir’s economy has shown remarkable improvement. “Since 2017, the region’s economy has doubled, and per capita income has risen. Jammu and Kashmir Bank, which was running at a loss of ₹1,200 crore, is now recording a profit of ₹1,700 crore. There has been a tremendous turnaround,” Sinha stated.

He also highlighted the upcoming inauguration of train services to Kashmir by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which he believes will significantly boost connectivity and economic growth.

Return of Kashmiri Pandits and Peace in the Valley

On the subject of Kashmiri Pandits returning to their homeland, Sinha expressed optimism. “Most of their issues have been addressed. When peace is fully restored, they will return to their homes. Hopefully, that day will come soon,” he said.

Rejecting claims from certain politicians that peace in Kashmir is being “forced,” Sinha pointed out that Bollywood and Hollywood film shoots, Muharram processions, thriving cinema halls, booming tourism, and rising industrial investments are proof of a stable and peaceful Kashmir.

“This is the Government of India’s policy—to establish permanent peace in Jammu and Kashmir. Over the past five years, we have made great strides. Stone pelting is now history, businesses are flourishing, schools and colleges are functioning normally, and the aspirations of the youth are aligned with the rest of the country,” he added.

Security Situation and Neighboring Threats

The Lieutenant Governor acknowledged that whenever peace is established in Jammu and Kashmir, the “neighbor” (a veiled reference to Pakistan) feels uneasy. He noted that both the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections were conducted peacefully and were widely appreciated, both nationally and globally.

“Currently, no top terrorist commanders are left, and local recruitment into terrorist groups is at its lowest,” Sinha said. “People are walking along the banks of the Jhelum River late at night—this is a sign of normalcy. While some politicians may have their own compulsions for making statements, the people of J&K want peace to persist. All this progress is possible due to the leadership of the Prime Minister, the Home Minister, and a unified approach by the entire government.”

Action Against Government Employees with Terror Links

On the termination of government employees linked to anti-national activities, Sinha affirmed that the process will continue. “Identification and dossier preparation against such employees are ongoing, and appropriate action will be taken,” he said.

He concluded by stating that the government has provided 40,000 jobs in a transparent and merit-based manner, ensuring fair opportunities for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir.

Eid-ul-Fitr, marking the end of the holy month of Ramzan, was celebrated with religious devotion and enthusiasm across the Jammu region today. The occasion was marked by grand congregational prayers, heartfelt greetings, and communal harmony.

From early morning, Muslim communities, dressed in traditional white attire, gathered at mosques and Eidgahs to offer special Eid prayers. The largest congregation in Jammu took place at Eidgah Residency Road, where hundreds of people from various parts of the city came together to pray for peace and prosperity.

Security and Administrative Arrangements

The administration and the Waqf Board made elaborate arrangements at Eidgah for the smooth conduct of prayers, with tight security measures in place to prevent any untoward incidents.

Special Eid prayers were also offered at prominent mosques, including Jamia Masjid Khatika Talab, Jamia Masjid Ustad Mohalla, Jamia Masjid near Tawi Bridge, and Jamia Masjids in Bhatindi, Sidhra, and Sunjwan, among other locations.

Festive Spirit and Community Harmony

The streets and marketplaces were abuzz with festive cheer as members of the Muslim community embraced and exchanged greetings. Members of other communities also joined in the celebrations, extending their best wishes to their Muslim brethren. Children, dressed in colorful attire, eagerly spent their Eidy on sweets, toys, and festive treats, adding to the jubilant atmosphere.

Celebrations Across the Region

In Kathua, hundreds of Muslims gathered at Eidgah to offer prayers, with similar scenes witnessed in Bani, Billawar, and Basohli. In Udhampur, the Jamia Masjid at Adarsh Colony saw a large turnout of worshippers.

In Ramban, prayers were held at Jamia Masjid Qadim and Jamia Masjid Jadeed, while in Banihal and Batote, special prayers were offered in their respective mosques. In Reasi, the Eidgah at Gran Morh on Jotipuram Road was the center of festivities.

Doda and Bhaderwah witnessed prayers in their respective Eidgahs, while in Rajouri, thousands of worshippers assembled at Eidgah to offer their Namaz. Senior civil and police officers, including the Deputy Commissioner of Rajouri, DIG Rajouri-Poonch range, and SSP Rajouri, extended greetings and distributed sweets among children.

Message of Love and Brotherhood

Imams delivering sermons across different mosques emphasized the significance of Ramzan and the values of Eid-ul-Fitr, highlighting the festival’s message of love, brotherhood, and humanity.

In Kishtwar, thousands gathered at Eidgah Chowgan for prayers, with heightened security ensuring a peaceful celebration. Similarly, Poonch, Mendhar, Surankote, and Mandi witnessed grand Eid congregations. At the Markazi Eidgah in Poonch, a large number of worshippers offered prayers, with the administration ensuring smooth arrangements.

Eid-ul-Fitr once again reinforced the spirit of unity and festivity across Jammu and Kashmir, bringing communities together in a celebration of faith, compassion, and joy.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to visit Jammu and Kashmir on April 7 and 8 to conduct a high-level review of the security situation in the region. During his visit, Shah is expected to assess the security framework, visit the International Border (IB), and meet the families of police personnel who recently attained martyrdom.

According to official sources, the final itinerary of the Home Minister’s visit is being worked out and is expected to be announced within the next couple of days.

Security Review and High-Level Meetings Shah will hold meetings with Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, senior officers of paramilitary forces, Intelligence agencies, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the civil administration. The discussions will primarily focus on the recent terror incidents, cross-border infiltration attempts, and counter-terrorism operations.

Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) officers overseeing Jammu and Kashmir, and senior Army officers in the Union Territory are also expected to participate in the meeting. In addition, heads of paramilitary forces, including the Border Security Force (BSF) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), will accompany Shah from New Delhi.

This visit follows the recent fierce gun battle at Safiyan Jakhole in Rajbagh, Kathua district, where four police personnel were martyred, and two terrorists were killed. The Home Minister’s visit aims to strengthen security mechanisms and review counter-terrorism measures to prevent further infiltration attempts.

Visit to International Border and Martyrs’ Families A significant part of Shah’s visit will include an on-ground assessment of the International Border (IB), where multiple infiltration attempts have been reported from Pakistan. Security measures will be evaluated to ensure zero infiltration and the neutralization of terrorists who have managed to enter Indian territory.

Additionally, the Home Minister is expected to visit the families of some of the police personnel who lost their lives in the recent encounters, paying tribute to their sacrifices and reassuring them of the government’s commitment to national security.

Government’s Strategy Post-Article 370 Abrogation Since the abrogation of Article 370 in August 2019, the Government has reinforced its counter-terrorism operations while also focusing on infrastructure development in Jammu and Kashmir. Shah’s visit is viewed as a continuation of these efforts, ensuring that security forces remain vigilant and well-equipped to handle emerging threats.

This will be the Home Minister’s first visit to the region after the Assembly elections and the formation of the new government under Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. Shah previously reviewed the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir through five meetings in New Delhi between December 2024 and February 2025.

Railway Security Measures in Focus With Prime Minister Narendra Modi scheduled to flag off the train to Kashmir Valley from Katra on April 19, security agencies will also focus on securing railway tracks and stations. Ensuring the safety of railway infrastructure will be an essential part of the upcoming security discussions.

Union Home Secretary Govind Mohan had recently visited Jammu to review security preparedness, indicating a coordinated effort by the central government to maintain law and order in the region.

Conclusion Amit Shah’s visit to Jammu and Kashmir underscores the government’s proactive approach in dealing with security challenges in the region. The discussions and on-ground assessments during his tour will play a crucial role in shaping future strategies to curb terrorism, enhance security, and support the people affected by insurgent activities.