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Will Constitution Not Come To Rescue Of Believer Who Is Not Allowed To Touch Deity: SC

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Will Constitution Not Come To Rescue Of Believer Who Is Not Allowed To Touch Deity: SC
The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the chief priest of the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple if the Constitution will not come to the rescue of a believer who is not allowed to touch the deity.
The remark by the top court came after the chief priest said that when a devotee goes to a temple for worship, it can’t be in antagonism to the characteristics of a deity.
The nine-judge Constitution bench is hearing petitions related to discrimination against women at religious places, including the Sabarimala Temple in Kerala, and on the ambit and scope of the religious freedom practised by multiple faiths.
The bench comprises Chief Justice Surya Kant and justices B V Nagarathna, M M Sundresh, Ahsanuddin Amanullah, Aravind Kumar, Augustine George Masih, Prasanna B Varale, R Mahadevan, and Joymalya Bagchi.
Appearing for the ‘thantri’, senior advocate V Giri submitted that the nature of ceremonies and rituals followed in any temple forms the integral part of the religion and therefore is a religious practice.
He said continuance of such practice, which is an essential religious practice, would be a part of the right to worship that is for every member who believes in the religion or religious denomination.
“When a devotee goes to a temple for worship, it can’t be in antagonism to the characteristics of a deity because its for the purpose of worshipping the deity. The devotee surrenders to the divine spirit contained in the deity. He/she has to accept the essential characteristics of the deity,” Giri said.
Posing a question, Justice Amanullah asked, “When I go to a temple, my fundamental belief is that he is the Lord, he is my creator, he has created me, right? “I go there with one hundred percent belief. I am totally devoted, absolutely nothing impure in my heart. And there, I am told that because of a birth, a lineage, a certain situation, permanently you are not allowed to touch the deity. Now, will the Constitution not come to the rescue? Justice Amanullah remarked, adding that there cannot be a difference between the creator and creation.
Giri replied that if there is a complete ban on anybody becoming a priest, then that will be taken care of either by a Article 25(2)(b) legislation or it will be taken care of by the State itself.
“If priest means the person who is instructed in the ‘Shastras’ as to how to conduct worship and how to worship the deity, if there is a complete ban on any person becoming a priest and then doing the ‘seva’, as we call it, only by reason of birth, that will be taken care of either by a Article 25(2)(b) legislation or it will be taken care of by the State itself,” he said.
The senior lawyer said “Naishtika Brahmachari” (perennial celibate) can be considered as an essential characteristic to the deity and the ceremonies and rituals performed in Sabarimala are in synchronisation with the concept. “I have a right to practice my religion under Article 25 of the Constitution…If the characteristics of the deity are as such that its not possible for me to go there, if I am a woman, it has to be in sync with the characteristics of the religion. The characteristic of the deity in sofar as Sabarimala is concerned contemplates that the deity is a permanent celibate,” Giri said.
He contended there is a total lack of material on the part of the writ petitioners to show that the concept of “Naishtika Brahmachari” pleaded by the petitioner are either ill founded, misconceived, or doesn’t form the essential form of the religion.
The hearing is underway. Observing that denominational practices can be subject matter of judicial scrutiny, the top court on April 17 had said that judges must rise above personal religious beliefs and be guided by freedom of conscience and the broader constitutional framework while adjudicating matters of faith. In September 2018, a five-judge Constitution bench, by a 4:1 majority verdict, lifted the ban that prevented women between the ages of 10 and 50 from entering the Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple and held that the centuries-old Hindu religious practice was illegal and unconstitutional.
Later, on November 14, 2019, another five-judge bench headed by the then CJI Ranjan Gogoi, by a majority of 3:2, referred the issue of discrimination against women at various places of worship to a larger bench. (Agencies)

Bus Rolls Down Hill In Jammu And Kashmir’s Udhampur; 21 Dead

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Bus Rolls Down Hill In Jammu And Kashmir’s Udhampur; 21 Dead
A passenger bus rolled down a hillside in Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur district on Monday, leaving 21 people dead and 29 others injured, officials said.
The bus crushed an auto-rickshaw before landing upside down on the road below.
Officials said those travelling in the auto-rickshaw sustained injuries but survived.
An Army convoy passing along the hilly stretch led the rescue operation after the driver of the private bus lost control while negotiating a blind curve near the hilltop Kagort village in the Ramnagar area around 10 am.
The bus was carrying 50 passengers, mostly those heading to their daily jobs, from Ramnagar to Udhampur.
The rescue operation proved extremely challenging as the vehicle had been reduced to a mangled heap of iron, with its top portion almost completely torn off.
President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled the loss of lives in the accident.
He also announced an ex gratia of Rs 2 lakh for the families of those killed and Rs 50,000 for those injured in the accident.
J-K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah assured all possible assistance to the families of the deceased and those injured.
They also directed authorities concerned to provide immediate relief and necessary support to those affected.
“A bus en route from Ramnagar to Udhampur lost control while negotiating a hilly stretch, plunged down the slope, and crushed an auto-rickshaw upon landing upside down on the road below. Fifteen passengers were found dead at the scene, while four others later succumbed to their injuries in hospital,” Deputy Inspector General of Police, Udhampur-Reasi Range, Shiv Kumar Sharma told reporters at the site.
Officials said two more critically injured persons succumbed to their injuries at Udhampur District Hospital during treatment, raising the death toll to 21.
Sharma said the local residents extended significant help during the rescue. Police teams, including the Senior Superintendent of Police, SHO Ramnagar, and other officers, reached the spot.
Army personnel also assisted, and a joint rescue operation was carried out. The vehicle was later straightened using a hydraulic crane, the DIG said. He said this is a very tragic incident, and “we stand in solidarity with the families who have lost their loved ones. Jammu and Kashmir Police stand with them in this hour of grief.” Sharma said Director General of Police, Nalin Prabhat and Inspector General of Police, Jammu Zone, Bhim Sen Tuti are monitoring the situation over the phone.
An army soldier, who was leading a convoy from Udhampur to Ramnagar, said they swung into action immediately after noticing the civilian vehicle rolling down the hill.
“I was leading the convoy when the accident occurred on the way. The vehicle fell from a height of nearly 100 metres. We immediately secured the area and launched the rescue operation, thus saving many precious lives including those of men and women with great difficulty,” the soldier said.
In a post on X, the Lt Governor said, “Tragic road accident in Udhampur is heartbreaking. My deepest condolences to bereaved families. May God grant them strength. Praying for a speedy recovery of the injured.” Sinha said he directed the district administration, police, the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and health department to provide every possible assistance to those affected.
The chief minister extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.
In a post on X, chief minister said, “The government stands firmly with the victims and their families in this hour of grief, and that all necessary assistance is being extended.”
Former chief minister and PDP president Mehbooba Mufti also expressed grief over the incident.
“Deeply saddened by the tragic Udhampur-Ramnagar bus accident.
Condolences to the bereaved families and pray for the swift recovery of those injured,” she said in a post on X.
Expressing grief over the incident, J-K Congress chief Tariq Hameed Karra urged authorities to immediately provide all possible relief, proper medical care, and necessary support to the affected families in this hour of immense pain.
Earlier, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said he spoke to Deputy Commissioner, Udhampur, Minga Sherpa following the accident, informing that arrangements are being made to airlift the seriously injured victims.
“Just now spoke to DC Udhampur, Minga Sherpa after learning about a tragic road accident, less than an hour ago, at village Kanote, involving a public transport bus on way from Ramnagar to Udhampur.
“The rescue operation has been immediately undertaken. Heavy casualties are expected. All possible assistance is being provided. The injured will be shifted for medical aid. Arrangements being made to airlift the seriously injured,” the minister said in a post on X.
Singh said he is in constant touch with the local administration as well as the
BJP local workers team involved in the rescue operation.

CM Omar Reviews Progress Of 2.7-Km-Long Sungal Tunnel On Jammu-Poonch Highway

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CM Omar Reviews Progress Of 2.7-Km-Long Sungal Tunnel On Jammu-Poonch Highway
 Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday reviewed the ongoing work on the 2.79-kilometre-long Sungal tunnel project on the Jammu–Poonch Highway, which is scheduled to be completed later this year.
“On his way to Nowshera, the chief minister today inspected the ongoing work on the Sungal Tunnel project and reviewed the progress on site,” the Chief Minister’s Office said in a post on X.
During the visit, officials briefed him on the current status of construction, including excavation, structural work and associated road development, it said.
The Sungal tunnel, connecting Akhnoor and Poonch, is the second of the four tunnels on the strategic national highway, popularly known as the “golden arc road,” to achieve a major construction milestone.
The 2.79-kilometre-long tunnel is a key infrastructure project aimed at improving connectivity between Akhnoor and Poonch in Jammu and Kashmir. Officials said the project is nearing completion and is being executed by the Border Roads Organisation.
The “golden arc road,” a nearly 200-kilometre-long strategic stretch, connects south Kashmir with the western districts and links key border areas, including Akhnoor, Rajouri and Poonch.
Officials said the highway includes four major tunnels—Kandi, Sungal, Naushera and Bhimber Gali—being developed to enhance connectivity and ensure all-weather access in the region.
Earlier, the 700-metre-long Naushera tunnel had been completed, while work on the 260-metre-long Kandi tunnel and the 1.1-kilometre-long Bhimber Gali tunnel is currently in progress.Maps

“Security Of Strait Of Hormuz Is Not Free,” Says Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref Amid Rising US-Iran Tensions

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“Security Of Strait Of Hormuz Is Not Free,” Says Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref Amid Rising US-Iran Tensions
Iran’s First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref on Sunday (local time) warned that stability in the Strait of Hormuz comes at a cost, stating that the country cannot be expected to ensure maritime security while facing restrictions on its own oil exports, amid escalating tensions with the United States over the seizure of an Iranian vessel.
In a post on X, Aref said, “The security of the Strait of Hormuz is not free. One cannot restrict Iran’s oil exports while expecting free security for others.”
He added that the consequences of continued pressure would be global in scale, particularly for energy markets.
“The choice is clear: either a free oil market for all, or the risk of significant costs for everyone,” he said.
Aref further stressed that long-term stability in fuel prices would require an end to external pressure on Iran.
“Stability in global fuel prices depends on a guaranteed and lasting end to the economic and military pressure against Iran and its allies,” he added.
The security of the Strait of Hormuz is not free. One cannot restrict Iran’s oil exports while expecting free security for others. The choice is clear: either a free oil market for all, or the risk of significant costs for everyone. Stability in global fuel prices depends on a…
— Aref| First VP Iran (@fvpresidentiran) April 19, 2026
The remarks come amid escalating tensions in the region following Iran’s confirmation that a US operation targeted an Iranian commercial vessel in the Sea of Oman.
Iran’s Hazrat Khatam al-Anbiya military headquarters, in a statement carried by Iranian state media, accused the United States of “violating the ceasefire and committing maritime piracy” and said the ship had been seized.
“We warn that the Armed Forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran will soon respond to and retaliate against this armed piracy by the US military,” it said.
The statement followed claims by the US Central Command (CENTCOM) that American forces intercepted and disabled the Iranian-flagged vessel TOUSKA in the Arabian Sea after it violated a US naval blockade.
“TAMPA, Fla. – U.S. forces operating in the Arabian Sea enforced naval blockade measures against an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel attempting to sail toward an Iranian port, April 19,” CENTCOM said.
It added that the guided-missile destroyer USS Spruance fired several rounds into the vessel’s engine room after repeated warnings were ignored.
“Spruance disabled Touska’s propulsion by firing several rounds from the destroyer’s 5-inch MK 45 Gun into Touska’s engine room,” CENTCOM said, adding that US Marines later boarded the vessel, which remains in American custody.
US President Donald Trump also claimed that American forces had taken “full custody” of the ship, saying it was intercepted after attempting to breach the blockade in the Gulf of Oman.
The developments come amid rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and ongoing diplomatic uncertainty, with Iran rejecting US claims as “false” about renewed negotiations while accusing Washington of escalating pressure through military and economic measures. (Agencies)

Bus Rolls Down Hill In Jammu And Kashmir’s Udhampur, 12 Killed

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Bus Rolls Down Hill In Jammu And Kashmir’s Udhampur, 12 Killed
Twelve people were killed and several others injured when a passenger bus rolled down a hill in Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur district on Monday, officials said.
The bus met with the accident on the hilly road while negotiating a blind curve near Kagort village in Ram Nagar area around 10 am, the officials said.
They said a major rescue operation is underway. Several persons were shifted to hospital from the scene and their condition is stated to be critical.
The bus was on way to Udhampur from a remote village when the accident took place, the officials said.
Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh tweets, “Just now spoke to DC Udhampur, Minga Sherpa, after learning about a tragic road accident, less than an hour ago, at village Kanote, involving a public transport bus on its way from Ramnagar to Udhampur. The rescue operation has been immediately undertaken. Heavy casualties are expected. All possible assistance is being provided. The injured will be shifted for medical aid. Arrangements being made to airlift the seriously injured. I am in constant touch with the local administration as well as our local workers team led by Rajinder Sharma.” (KNC)City & Local Guides

Time to Unite Against Drug Menace: Dr. Rufayee Supports LG’s Initiative

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Time to Unite Against Drug Menace: Dr. Rufayee Supports LG’s Initiative

Jammu, April 20:

Dr. Tahir Rufayee, National Chairman of the National Foundation for Journalism and Media, has appreciated the strong and determined stance taken by the Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Sh.Manoj Sinha in launching an intensified campaign against the growing drug menace in Jammu & Kashmir.

He lauded the administration’s commitment under the “Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir” initiative and termed it a timely and much-needed step to safeguard the future of the youth and restore the social fabric of the region. Dr. Rufayee stated that drug abuse is not merely a law-and-order issue but a serious societal challenge that demands collective responsibility.

“Such a decisive approach sends a strong message that the government is committed to eradicating this menace from its roots. However, the success of this campaign depends largely on active public participation,” he said.

Dr. Rufayee urged parents, teachers, community leaders, and especially the youth to come forward and support the initiative. He emphasized the crucial role of families and civil society in identifying early signs of substance abuse and guiding affected individuals toward rehabilitation.

He also called upon social organizations, educational institutions, and media bodies to actively contribute by spreading awareness and building a strong public movement against drugs.

“Every citizen must act as a stakeholder in this fight. Only through collective efforts can we ensure a safe, healthy, and drug-free Jammu & Kashmir,” he added.

Dr. Rufayee reaffirmed his organization’s full support to the campaign and expressed willingness to collaborate in awareness drives and outreach programs across the region.

Brune & Bareskin opens its newest luxury leather store at Wave Mall, Jammu

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Brune & Bareskin opens its newest luxury leather store at Wave Mall, Jammu

Jammu, 18th April 2026: Brune & Bareskin by Voganow has opened its newest retail store at Wave Mall, Jammu, marking a continued push into high-potential luxury markets across North India.

The launch signals the brand’s growing focus on physical retail, as demand for premium, experience-led shopping extends beyond metro cities. With existing stores in Jalandhar, Delhi, Ludhiana, and Bathinda, Jammu becomes a strategic addition to its expanding footprint.

Located within one of the city’s key retail hubs, the new store is designed to translate the brand’s digital-first identity into a tactile, in-person experience. The space brings together its full leather portfolio, including footwear, jackets, bags, and accessories, alongside limited offerings in exotic materials such as ostrich and stingray leather. Interiors follow a restrained contemporary aesthetic with vintage cues, placing emphasis on materiality and craftsmanship over visual excess.

Founded in 2015 by Tabby Bhatia under Voganow Fashions Pvt. Ltd., Brune & Bareskin has positioned itself within the premium leather segment through a combination of small-batch manufacturing and customization. Its products are developed at its Jalandhar facility, using imported leather that is vegetable-tanned to enhance durability and finish over time.

The brand’s growth has been driven by a mix of direct-to-consumer scale and high-visibility clientele. Over the years, it has produced bespoke pieces for public figures across sport and entertainment, while also executing institutional orders for organizations such as the BCCI and the Indian cricket team.

“Jammu represents a market where appreciation for craftsmanship already exists,” said Tabby Bhatia, Founder and CEO. “Our focus is to build a brand that is rooted in Indian manufacturing but capable of competing at a global luxury level. Physical retail plays a critical role in that journey.”

The Jammu store will offer both ready collections and made-to-order services, allowing customers to personalise materials, finishes, and design details. The move reflects a broader shift within the brand toward deepening engagement through customization rather than scale alone.

Brune & Bareskin is currently pursuing an aggressive expansion roadmap, with plans to scale its retail network to over 100 stores nationwide. The Jammu opening underscores its intent to build a distributed luxury presence, anchored not just in metros but in fast-evolving regional markets.

Imagine Tresor North India’s Largest Apple Partner Launches “Summer Fest” in Jammu with Exciting Tech Deals and In-Store Experiences

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Imagine Tresor North India’s Largest Apple Partner Launches “Summer Fest” in Jammu with Exciting Tech Deals and In-Store Experiences

Jammu, India — 18 April — Imagine, a leading Apple Premium Partner, has announced the launch of its much-anticipated “Summer Fest” in Jammu. The limited-time retail event is designed to bring exclusive seasonal offers, hands-on product experiences, and attractive upgrade opportunities to customers across the region.

The Summer Fest campaign will run for a short duration across Imagine stores in Jammu at Residency road and Wave Mall outlets, offering customers access to special pricing on a wide range of Apple products and compatible accessories. The initiative aims to make premium technology more accessible while enhancing the in-store shopping experience.

The fest was inaugurated by Dr. Arvind Karwani (JKAS) Relief & Rehabilitation Commissioner and senior leadership members from the Tresor family.

Dr. Arvind Karwani said, “We are delighted to see initiatives like the Imagine Summer Fest being brought to Jammu, as they reflect the growing demand for technology-driven lifestyles in our region. Such platforms not only make premium innovations from Apple more accessible to people, but also encourage digital adoption among youth, professionals, and entrepreneurs.

I appreciate the efforts of Imagine in creating an engaging and customer-focused experience through this Summer Fest. Events like these contribute positively to the local economy while empowering individuals to stay connected with the latest advancements in technology. I wish the team great success for this initiative and look forward to more such opportunities for our community.”

Mr. Shaurya Seth, Director, Tresor Systems Pvt. Ltd., stated “We are pleased to introduce the Imagine Summer Fest in Jammu, a region that continues to demonstrate a growing appetite for premium technology and elevated retail experiences. This initiative underscores our commitment to strengthening customer engagement and making innovative products more widely accessible.

Through the Summer Fest, we aim to deliver not only attractive value but also a superior in-store experience. Jammu remains a significant market in our expansion strategy, and we will continue to focus on enhancing our presence while providing exceptional service to our customers.”

Amit Malhotra, Cluster Head Jammu said, “During the event, customers can explore the latest offers on products like iPhone, Mac, iPad, Apple Watch, AirPods and Protect+ with AppleCare Services. Customers also get personalized assistance from trained experts, and can take advantage of bundled offers and exchange programs. The festival also highlights accessories and complementary tech products, catering to students, professionals, and everyday users looking to upgrade their devices this summer.”

Speaking on the product portfolio, Dr. Shravan Kokroo, Group Head – Marketing, Tresor, said: “Imagine brings together Apple’s complete portfolio, including Mac, iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, AirPods, and Beats, complemented by a carefully curated range of branded accessories. Designed to address productivity, creativity, and lifestyle needs, the store enables customers to experience the Apple ecosystem in its entirety and make informed choices. The campaign is also being promoted through local outreach and digital platforms, ensuring that customers stay informed about ongoing deals and limited-time offers.”

Customers are encouraged to visit their nearest Imagine store in Jammu to experience the Summer Fest first hand and take advantage of exclusive in-store benefits.

 

About Imagine – Apple Premium Partner

Imagine Apple Authorised Reseller lives and breathes Apple. The brand offers expert guidance, the complete Apple product line-up, software, and accessories under one roof, along with hands-on demonstrations, workshops, and events. Imagine caters to individual consumers as well as business and professional users looking to maximize their Apple experience.

Apple products are also available online at myimaginestore.com.

Sanjay Manhas Welcomes “Nasha Mukta” Campaign Launched by Hon’ble LG Manoj Sinha

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Sanjay Manhas Welcomes “Nasha Mukta” Campaign Launched by Hon’ble LG Manoj Sinha

Jammu, April 18, 2026: Sanjay Manhas, National President of the Anti Terrorism and Peace Front, has wholeheartedly welcomed the “Nasha Mukta” campaign initiated by Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.

In a statement issued today, Manhas lauded the visionary leadership and proactive approach of the Hon’ble LG in addressing the growing menace of drug abuse, particularly among the youth. He stated that the campaign is a timely and much-needed initiative aimed at safeguarding the future of society and ensuring a healthier, drug-free environment.

Manhas emphasized that drug addiction poses a serious threat not only to individuals but also to families and the social fabric at large. He expressed confidence that under the leadership of the Hon’ble LG, the “Nasha Mukta” campaign will bring significant positive change and encourage collective responsibility among citizens.

He further assured that the Anti Terrorism and Peace Front will extend full support to this initiative by actively participating in awareness drives, community outreach programs, and youth engagement activities across the region.

Manhas also appealed to civil society, educational institutions, parents, and youth organizations to come forward and contribute towards making the campaign a success. He stressed that a united effort is essential to eradicate the menace of drugs and build a secure and progressive society.

The Anti Terrorism and Peace Front reiterated its commitment to work alongside the administration in promoting peace, awareness, and social responsibility.

CMO Doda Conducts Surprise Inspection of Trauma Hospital Khellani

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CMO Doda Conducts Surprise Inspection of Trauma Hospital Khellani
CMO Doda Conducts Surprise Inspection of Trauma Hospital Khellani
Doda, April 17, 2026:
To review the functioning of healthcare facilities and ensure quality service delivery, Chief Medical Officer Doda, Dr. Tanveer Ahmed Rather, conducted a surprise inspection of Trauma Hospital Khellani, falling under Medical Block Assar, on 17-04-2026.
During the visit, the CMO inspected various sections of the hospital and reviewed staff attendance, patient care services, and overall functioning of the facility. He assessed the availability of essential medicines, equipment, and cleanliness of the hospital premises.
Dr. Rather also interacted with patients and attendants to obtain feedback regarding healthcare services being provided at the facility. He emphasized the importance of punctuality, discipline, and dedication among staff members to ensure efficient and patient friendly healthcare services.
While interacting with the staff, the CMO impressed upon them to work with greater commitment and professionalism to strengthen healthcare delivery and ensure quality services to the public. He further directed the staff to maintain proper records and ensure smooth functioning of all services for the benefit of the people.
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