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OMAR ABDULLAH SLAMS BJP OVER ARTICLE 370, PSA, AND DEVELOPMENT CLAIMS

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OMAR ABDULLAH SLAMS BJP OVER ARTICLE 370, PSA, AND DEVELOPMENT CLAIMS

Jammu: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah launched a scathing attack on the BJP in the Assembly today, questioning the party’s stance on the abrogation of Article 370, the role of the Maharaja, and the use of the Public Safety Act (PSA). He challenged the ruling party, asking whether removing special status had resolved all issues, especially when terrorism has increased in the Jammu region.

BJP’s Development Claims Under Fire

During his 40-minute speech in response to the Motion of Thanks to the Lieutenant Governor’s Address, Abdullah asked Leader of Opposition (LoP) Sunil Sharma to specify which development projects were impossible under Article 370. “AIIMS, IIT, IIM, and Ring Road projects were all initiated before 2019,” he stated, debunking BJP’s claims of improved development post-abrogation.

He further challenged the BJP’s narrative on terrorism, asking: “If Pakistan is responsible for terrorism, why blame Article 370? And if Article 370 was responsible, then why oppose talks with Pakistan?”

Increase in Terrorism Post Abrogation

Abdullah pointed out that during the NC-Congress Government, terrorism in Jammu had been controlled. “Now, terrorist attacks are happening in Reasi, Rajouri, and even against pilgrims. Can BJP deny this?” he questioned.

Article 370: A Fight on Two Fronts

The National Conference (NC) remains hopeful about Article 370’s restoration, both legally and politically. Abdullah reminded the House that the Supreme Court ruling is not the final word, hinting at a potential review. “During Rajiv Gandhi’s time, BJP had only two MPs. Did anyone then think they would be where they are today?”

Corruption and Jal Jeevan Mission Controversy

Targeting BJP’s claims of reduced corruption post-abrogation, Abdullah cited BJP’s own MLAs’ allegations about scams in Jal Jeevan Mission, mining, and land use policies. “If corruption ended, why are BJP leaders calling it ‘Jugadu Jeevan Mission’?” he asked.

The Debate on PoJK and China-Occupied J&K

Taking on External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s statements about reclaiming PoJK, Abdullah challenged, “Who stopped you? Why only talk about PoJK? Why not bring back the part of Jammu and Kashmir occupied by China?”

Legacy of the Maharaja and Changing History

He defended Maharaja Hari Singh’s legacy, stating that NC and Congress never insulted him. “He gave us this State. What did you do? You broke it into two UTs.”

He accused BJP of hypocrisy, saying, “They rename places across India, but in J&K, we never touched institutions named after the Maharaja.”

On the Abolition of July 13 and Sheikh Abdullah’s Birth Anniversary Holidays

Omar dismissed the cancellation of July 13 and December 5 holidays, stating that even if official holidays are scrapped, “their sacrifices cannot be erased.”

Statehood Will Be Restored Soon

Expressing confidence that J&K will regain statehood within a year, he remarked, “Next year’s Legislative Address will be delivered by a Governor, not an LG.” He emphasized that the loss of Statehood had lowered J&K’s political standing, noting that as CM of a full-fledged state, he ranked above a Union Cabinet Minister, but today he ranks below a Union MoS.

Commitment to Fulfilling Election Promises

Abdullah assured that his government will deliver on every promise made in their manifesto, from A to Z. He reiterated NC’s pledge to:

  • Release political prisoners unjustly detained.
  • Seek amnesty for detainees not involved in serious crimes.
  • Address arbitrary termination of government employees.

A Strong Stand Against PSA

He criticized BJP’s defense of the PSA, arguing that using preventive detention laws suggests a weak legal case. “If you had solid evidence, why not use regular legal provisions instead of PSA?”

Business Rules Finalized for Smooth Governance

He revealed that J&K’s new business rules were finalized in a Cabinet meeting and submitted for Lieutenant Governor’s approval to ensure clarity in governance. “Until statehood is restored, we must ensure smooth functioning.”

Final Word: A Call for Justice and Dignity

He concluded by reaffirming NC’s commitment to statehood, dignity, and development, warning BJP that silencing voices will not suppress the demand for justice. “We live with our hope, and you live with yours. Who knows what the future holds?” he said.

Axar Patel’s Evolution: From ‘Poor Man’s Jadeja’ to India’s Middle-Order Mainstay

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Axar Patel’s Evolution: From ‘Poor Man’s Jadeja’ to India’s Middle-Order Mainstay

Kane Williamson’s composed 81 kept New Zealand’s chase of 250 alive in the Champions Trophy group stage, but Axar Patel’s precision put an end to his fight. In a moment of pure craft, Axar outfoxed Williamson with a slanted delivery, leading to a swift stumping by KL Rahul.

It was the final ball of Axar’s spell—a masterful 10-0-32-1—marked by pinpoint accuracy and strategic cunning. However, his efforts remained overshadowed by Varun Chakravarthy’s five-wicket haul, a scenario all too familiar for the left-arm spinner.

For years, Axar was unfairly labeled as a “poor man’s Jadeja” due to his similar skillset—left-arm spin and left-handed batting. Yet, breaking out of Jadeja’s shadow was no easy task. The breakthrough came in 2022 when he began sharpening his batting prowess, an effort that bore fruit with a match-winning unbeaten 64 against the West Indies in Barbados.

The Shift to No. 5

A bold move by the Indian team management saw Axar promoted to No. 5, ahead of the experienced KL Rahul, who boasts an average of over 50 in that slot. The decision, met with skepticism, was rooted in a strategic need—India required a left-hander in the middle order, especially after Rahul was designated as the primary wicketkeeper-batter over Rishabh Pant.

Since his shift to No. 5, Axar has registered scores of 52, 41*, 8, 3*, 42, and 27—not staggering numbers but invaluable in match contexts. His 42 against New Zealand at the DICS was a prime example, helping India reach 249 with a crucial 98-run stand alongside Shreyas Iyer while countering the spin duo of Mitchell Santner and Michael Bracewell.

Backing from the Team Management

Head coach Gautam Gambhir has firmly stood by Axar’s elevation in the batting order.

“We know his quality and ability, and we will continue giving him that opportunity at No. 5. It’s not about individuals; it’s about what works for the team,” said Gambhir.

Skipper Rohit Sharma echoed similar sentiments, revealing that Axar was given clarity about his role at the start of the home ODI series against England.

“The message was clear—no matter the situation, you will bat at No. 5. His batting improvement over the past year has been superb to watch, and we believe he can be an asset in the middle order,” Rohit stated.

The Road Ahead

Axar now has another opportunity to cement his status as an all-rounder in the Champions Trophy final against New Zealand on Sunday. While comparisons with Ravindra Jadeja are premature—given Jadeja’s stellar ODI record—Axar provides India with a seamless transition option once the veteran all-rounder steps away from the game.

For now, Axar Patel is no longer just a backup; he is carving his own identit

Tendulkar’s Fighting 64 Not Enough as Australia Masters Crush India by 95 Runs

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Tendulkar’s Fighting 64 Not Enough as Australia Masters Crush India by 95 Runs

Sachin Tendulkar’s valiant 64-run knock went in vain as Australia Masters outclassed India Masters by a massive 95-run margin in their International Masters League clash.

Chasing a daunting 270-run target, India faltered under pressure, managing only 174 in their 20 overs. Tendulkar’s blistering 33-ball innings, featuring seven boundaries and four towering sixes, was the lone bright spot for the team. Yusuf Pathan added a quickfire 25 off 15 balls, striking three fours and a six, but the rest of the batting lineup failed to fire.

Australia’s dominance began with the bat as skipper Shane Watson (110*) and Ben Dunk (132*) produced a record-breaking unbeaten 236-run stand for the second wicket, powering their side to a mammoth 269/1 in 20 overs. Dunk was particularly destructive, hammering 10 sixes and 12 fours in his 53-ball carnage, while Watson’s 52-ball knock was laced with 12 boundaries and seven maximums.

Despite Tendulkar’s lone resistance, India lost wickets at regular intervals, losing momentum after reaching 100/3 at the halfway mark. Australia’s spin wizard Xavier Doherty wreaked havoc with figures of 5/25 in four overs, while Ben Hilfenhaus, Ben Laughlin, Bryce McGain, Dan Christian, and Nathan Reardon chipped in with a wicket each.

Though this was India Masters’ first defeat in four matches, it did not affect their tournament progress, as they had already secured a semifinal berth.

Brief Scores:

Australia Masters: 269/1 in 20 overs (Ben Dunk 132*, Shane Watson 110*)
India Masters: 174 all out in 20 overs (Sachin Tendulkar 64, Yusuf Pathan 25; Xavier Doherty 5/25)

Result: Australia Masters won by 95 runs.

Amit Shah Thanks Telangana Voters for BJP’s Victory in MLC Elections

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Amit Shah Thanks Telangana Voters for BJP’s Victory in MLC Elections

Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Thursday extended his gratitude to the people of Telangana for their overwhelming support, as BJP-backed candidates secured a significant victory in the state’s legislative council elections.

The BJP-supported candidates clinched two out of the three MLC seats contested in the elections held on February 27, marking a major political success for the party in the state.

Taking to social media platform ‘X’, Shah expressed his appreciation, stating, “Gratitude to the people of Telangana for blessing the BJP with a thumping victory in the MLC election. Your trust inspires us to serve even harder.”

He further attributed the victory to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unwavering commitment to Telangana’s development.

“This is a triumph of PM Modi’s tireless efforts for the progress of Telangana,” Shah remarked.

Congratulating party members, he added, “Heartiest congratulations to Telangana BJP President Shri @kishanreddybjp Ji along with the Karyakartas of the party for their hard work.”

The BJP’s success in the MLC elections is seen as a significant boost for the party’s presence in Telangana, setting the stage for future electoral battles.

Supreme Court Criticizes Delay in Liberty-Related Cases

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Supreme Court Criticizes Delay in Liberty-Related Cases

The Supreme Court on Thursday emphasized that courts should not delay matters concerning individual liberty for long periods. The observation came as a bench of Justices B R Gavai and Augustine George Masih expressed concern over a Punjab and Haryana High Court decision to schedule a hearing for temporary bail after two months.

The matter before the apex court involved a plea for temporary bail on medical grounds. The petitioner’s counsel argued that his client sought bail to facilitate urgent surgery for his two-year-old daughter. However, the high court, in an order dated February 21, scheduled the hearing for April 22.

“In matters of liberty, the courts are not expected to keep the matter at such a long date,” the Supreme Court bench remarked, allowing the petitioner to request an earlier hearing before the high court.

The top court also directed the high court to expedite the matter and hear the petitioner’s plea for temporary bail at the earliest, given the urgent medical condition of the child.

The petitioner’s counsel informed the court that a request for advancing the hearing had already been submitted to the high court, but it was dismissed. In response, Justice Gavai remarked, “Now, with this observation, do you think that the high court will reject it?”

The bench further noted that issuing a notice in the matter might lead to further delays, as the respondent would then seek time to respond. Instead, it urged the high court to prioritize the case and take it up expeditiously.

“We expect the high courts to at least give some weightage to our request,” Justice Gavai added, emphasizing the need for a swift resolution in cases related to personal liberty.

The petitioner initially sought interim bail before the high court, but the case was linked with the main petition and scheduled for hearing in April. The Supreme Court’s intervention now paves the way for a potential advancement of the hearing date, ensuring urgent matters related to personal liberty are addressed promptly.

Pro-Khalistan Protester Attempts Security Breach During Jaishankar’s London Visit

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Pro-Khalistan Protester Attempts Security Breach During Jaishankar’s London Visit

March 2025: A man from a small group of protesters chanting pro-Khalistan slogans outside Chatham House attempted to breach the security perimeter as External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar exited the think tank in London. The incident has drawn strong condemnation from India, calling out the “provocative activities” of what it described as a “small group of separatists and extremists.”

The demonstrators, waving separatist flags, were confined behind barricades and monitored by a significant police presence outside the venue. The situation escalated when one protester suddenly rushed past the barricades in an attempt to block the minister’s vehicle while pulling at an Indian flag attached to it. Metropolitan Police officers acted swiftly to restrain the individual, preventing further escalation. No arrests have been reported so far.

India’s Strong Condemnation

Community organization INSIGHT UK condemned the incident, stating, “It is shameful that this attack comes when Dr. S. Jaishankar is on a UK tour and had just completed a successful meeting with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, where they discussed bilateral ties.” The organization also shared footage of the incident on social media, highlighting the breach.

In response, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in New Delhi issued a strong statement condemning the security lapse and urging the UK government to uphold its diplomatic responsibilities. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “We have seen the footage of a breach of security during the visit of the External Affairs Minister to the UK. We condemn the provocative activities of this small group of separatists and extremists. We deplore the misuse of democratic freedoms by such elements. We expect the host government in such cases to fully live up to their diplomatic obligations.”

Jaishankar’s Address at Chatham House

Earlier in the day, during his session at Chatham House, Jaishankar was questioned about human rights concerns in India. Responding to the inquiry, he remarked, “A lot of this is political. We have been, for political reasons, at the receiving end of various expressions and campaigns on human rights. We listen to it. We are not perfect, nobody is perfect. There can be situations which require redressal and remedy.”

Jaishankar further defended India’s human rights record, stating, “I would argue that, if one looks around the world, we have a very strong human rights record. As a credible democracy, where people have growing faith in our institutions and representation has broadened in every conceivable way over the last many decades, where the state has been fair in the treatment of its citizens, I think any sweeping concern on human rights is misplaced. I don’t see any justification for it at all.”

The UK authorities have yet to release an official statement on the security incident. However, given the diplomatic tensions surrounding pro-Khalistan activities, the matter is expected to remain under close scrutiny.

 

Omar Abdullah Government Approves Business Rules for J&K Cabinet Decision Awaits LG Manoj Sinha’s Nod

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Omar Abdullah Government Approves Business Rules for J&K Cabinet Decision Awaits LG Manoj Sinha’s Nod

Nearly four and a half months after the formation of the Omar Abdullah-led Government, the Cabinet has given its approval to the Business Rules for Jammu and Kashmir. These rules will now be sent to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for final approval.

The amendments, which were formulated by a high-level government committee, were approved during a Cabinet meeting held at Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s residence at 8 PM. The meeting, lasting about an hour, marked a significant step in streamlining governance under the new political dispensation in the Union Territory.

Background and Necessity for Amendments

Omar Abdullah took oath as the Chief Minister on October 16, 2024, alongside five Cabinet Ministers. Since then, the administration had been awaiting an update to the Business Rules to define the powers and responsibilities of key officials.

The changes were necessitated after Jammu and Kashmir transitioned from a State to a Union Territory on August 5, 2019. This is the first time a political government has been formed in J&K after the Assembly elections held in September-October 2024.

Key Features of the New Business Rules

The newly approved Business Rules clearly define the powers of the Chief Minister, the Cabinet, Ministers, and Administrative Secretaries. The powers of the Lieutenant Governor remain unchanged, as he continues to oversee law and order, public order, and All India Services.

A senior government official stated, “These amendments will now be sent to the Lieutenant Governor, who has the authority to notify them.”

Legal Framework and Governance Structure

As per the Jammu & Kashmir Reorganization Act, 2019, the Lieutenant Governor is empowered to frame rules based on the advice of the Council of Ministers. This includes the allocation of responsibilities to Ministers and procedures for resolving any differences between the LG and the Cabinet.

Following the reorganization of Jammu & Kashmir, the Union Home Ministry had initially notified the Business Rules for the Union Territory on August 27, 2020. The rules were issued under Section 55 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, 2019, in conjunction with the Proclamation dated October 31, 2019.

With the Cabinet’s approval, the final notification of the amended Business Rules now rests with the Lieutenant Governor, paving the way for a more structured and efficient governance system in Jammu and Kashmir.

LG Manoj Sinha Chairs 48th Board Meeting of Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board

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LG Manoj Sinha Chairs 48th Board Meeting of Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha chaired the 48th Board Meeting of Shri Amarnath Ji Shrine Board (SASB) at Raj Bhawan today, finalizing the arrangements for the much-awaited Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025. The annual pilgrimage will commence simultaneously from the Pahalgam route (Anantnag district) and Baltal route (Ganderbal district) on July 3, concluding on August 9, coinciding with Raksha Bandhan.

Key Discussions & Proposals:

The Board discussed various measures to enhance facilities and services for the pilgrims, focusing on:

  • Lodgement Expansion: Increasing the lodging capacity at centers in Jammu, Srinagar, and other locations to accommodate the growing influx of pilgrims.
  • Pilgrim Facilitation: Setting up Yatri facilitation centers for e-KYC, RFID issuance, and on-spot registration at Nowgam and Katra Railway Stations.
  • Facility Enhancement: Upgrading facilities at Baltal, Pahalgam, Nunwan, Pantha Chowk Srinagar, and other transit points.
  • Security & Surveillance: Implementing a digital pre-paid system for hiring services, ensuring enhanced security measures at the holy cave.
  • Infrastructure Development: Improvements in Yatri Niwas, Pantha Chowk, Srinagar; widening of yatra tracks; decongestion of holy cave areas.
  • Disaster Preparedness: Strengthening medical care facilities, deploying heli services, and enhancing weather forecasting systems.

Board Members & Officials Present:

The meeting was attended by Swami Avdheshanand Giri Ji Maharaj, D C Raina, Kailash Mehra Sadhu, KN Rai, Pitambar Lal Gupta, Dr. Shailesh Raina, and Prof. Vishwamurti Shastri, along with key government officials.

LG Sinha’s Address:

Expressing gratitude towards the Board members, LG Sinha emphasized ensuring smooth arrangements for the pilgrims. He instructed departments to accelerate ongoing projects and ensure timely completion of facilities.

CEO’s Presentation on Yatra Arrangements:

Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari, Chief Executive Officer, SASB, gave a detailed presentation on the Yatra arrangements, covering insurance provisions, service providers, ponies, online services, and communication strategies.

Prominent Attendees:

The meeting was attended by:

  • Atal Dulloo (Chief Secretary)
  • Shaleen Kabra (Additional Chief Secretary, Jal Shakti Department)
  • Nalin Prabhat (DGP)
  • Chandraker Bharti (Principal Secretary Home)
  • Divisional Commissioners of Jammu & Kashmir
  • Deputy Commissioners of Ganderbal & Anantnag
  • Senior Officers from UT Administration & Shrine Board

The high-level discussions aimed to make Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra 2025 a seamless and spiritually enriching experience for thousands of devotees.

Fresh Snowfall in Kishtwar Brings Winter Charm

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Fresh Snowfall in Kishtwar Brings Winter Charm

The district of Kishtwar experienced fresh snowfall today, beginning after 11 AM, transforming the region into a winter wonderland. The snowfall added to the scenic beauty of the area, covering the mountains and valleys in a pristine white layer.

Residents and tourists enjoyed the mesmerizing sight, capturing the snow-covered landscapes. The drop in temperature has brought a crisp winter chill, and people have been advised to take necessary precautions to stay warm and safe.

With winter still in effect, the snowfall has added to the region’s seasonal charm, bringing joy to locals and visitors alike. Authorities have urged residents to stay updated on weather conditions while embracing the beauty of nature.

Mayawati Removes Nephew Akash Anand from All BSP Posts, Names New Coordinators

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Mayawati Removes Nephew Akash Anand from All BSP Posts, Names New Coordinators

Lucknow: Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Sunday removed her nephew Akash Anand from all party positions, appointing his father Anand Kumar and Rajya Sabha MP Ramji Gautam as national coordinators in his place. She also declared that she would not name a successor in her lifetime.

Mayawati, the former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister, asserted that the party’s interests come before family ties, emphasizing that the BSP and its movement are supreme.

This decision comes after she had earlier sacked Akash Anand last year, only to reinstate him later and name him as her political heir. However, citing internal conflicts, she has once again stripped him of his responsibilities.

In a strong rebuke, Mayawati blamed Akash Anand’s father-in-law, Ashok Siddharth, for dividing the party and weakening its foundation. “He also ruined the political career of Akash Anand,” she said.

Last month, Siddharth was expelled from the BSP over charges of factionalism and anti-party activities.

New Leadership and Party Strategy

Mayawati has entrusted Anand Kumar and Ramji Gautam with the responsibility of strengthening the BSP’s organizational structure across India.

She praised her brother Anand Kumar, who also serves as the BSP’s national vice-president, for his dedication to the party. “Be it paperwork, Income Tax matters, or legal battles, he has always handled them with commitment,” she noted, adding that he had also cared for BSP founder Kanshi Ram during his illness.

To prevent further political disruptions, Anand Kumar deliberately married his children into non-political families, she revealed, ensuring that no one could harm the party like Ashok Siddharth did.

Political Roadmap and Criticism of Governments

During the meeting, Mayawati emphasized the importance of expanding the BSP’s reach to all sections of society and resolving organizational shortcomings.

She strongly criticized both the central and Uttar Pradesh governments, calling their budgets “unrealistic and disconnected from ground realities.”

Accusing the government of neglecting key issues, she said, “Rising inflation, poverty, unemployment, and backwardness continue to worsen, yet the government remains indifferent.”

She further argued that “India continues to be a country of the poor despite being called a rich nation.”

Reaffirming the BSP’s commitment to B.R. Ambedkar’s ideals, Mayawati vowed that the party would continue working for the upliftment of marginalized communities.

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