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Jammu Faces Daily Gridlock Due to Non-Functional Traffic Signals

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Jammu city is grappling with severe traffic congestion due to non-functional traffic signals, leading to daily gridlock for commuters. This predicament raises serious concerns about urban traffic management.

Traffic signals, part of the Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS), remain non-functional for extended periods, creating choke points at major intersections. Key locations such as the Civil Secretariat, Women College Parade, and Kachi Chawni Chowk exemplify this issue, with officials acknowledging inadequate functionality since their installation.

The ongoing construction works at Satwari Chowk, Kunjwani Chowk, and along Narwal Road have further exacerbated the situation, reducing road capacity and contributing to the chaos. A surge of vehicles due to the Darbar Move, winter migration from Kashmir and Ladakh, alongside the wedding season, has compounded the already strained traffic conditions.

Without operational traffic signals, intersections often descend into disorder, compelling traffic police personnel to manually manage movement. Daily delays affect office-goers, students, and patients, while pedestrians navigate crowded carriageways due to encroached footpaths.

Officials confirmed that encroachments by street vendors and illegal constructions have narrowed road access, intensifying the congestion. Additionally, unregulated reharis create critical bottlenecks throughout markets and residential areas, aggravating the issue.

Commuters express growing frustration over increased fuel consumption and rising pollution, as vehicles sit idle in lengthy traffic jams. Motorsits feel further aggravated as operational challan cameras continue to issue fines despite these challenging circumstances.

Officials from the traffic department indicated that they are assessing the situation and preparing to deploy additional personnel at busy intersections. However, no definitive timeline has been provided for restoring the traffic signal system.

In light of these escalating concerns, residents are calling on the district administration, Jammu Municipal Corporation, Jammu Smart City Limited, and the Traffic Police for swift action. They urge restoration of traffic signals, removal of encroachments, and effective measures to streamline traffic flow across the city.

Satish Sharma Inaugurates Indoor Sports Hall in Khour

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Minister for Youth Services and Sports, Satish Sharma, inaugurated a state-of-the-art multipurpose indoor sports hall in the Khour area on Monday, marking a significant milestone in enhancing sports infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir’s border regions.

This initiative aims to empower local youth by providing them with modern, accessible, and inclusive sports facilities. Sharma emphasized the government’s commitment to develop sports infrastructure with a particular focus on rural and border areas, which often lack necessary resources.

“Quality sports infrastructure at the grassroots level plays a crucial role in identifying, nurturing, and grooming sporting talent,” Sharma stated during the inauguration. He highlighted the government’s goal of ensuring that no talented youth is deprived of opportunity due to lack of facilities.

The newly inaugurated sports hall features three badminton courts, six table tennis courts, a volleyball court, as well as two judo courts and two wrestling and kabaddi courts. This comprehensive setup is designed to accommodate multiple sports disciplines, creating a conducive environment for athletes to train.

Sharma also engaged with local youth and sportspersons, urging them to maximize their use of the new facility. He reassured the community that the government will prioritize further development of sports infrastructure and talent promotion in Jammu and Kashmir.

The inauguration of this indoor sports hall is set to significantly enhance sporting activities in the Khour area and neighboring regions, allowing young athletes to access modern, world-class facilities within reach of their homes. This development not only provides a platform for nurturing talent but also promotes a healthy lifestyle and sports culture among the youth.

Supreme Court Declines to Entertain PIL on IndiGo Flight Cancellations, Asks Petitioner to Approach Delhi HC

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The Supreme Court on Monday declined to entertain a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking judicial intervention into the cancellation of hundreds of flights by IndiGo and asked the petitioner to approach the Delhi High Court, which is already hearing a similar matter.

A Bench comprising Chief Justice Surya Kant and Justices Joymalya Bagchi and Vipul M. Pamcholi observed that the Delhi High Court was seized of a PIL concerning the crisis triggered by mass flight cancellations and related passenger grievances.

The Bench was hearing a plea filed by Narendra Mishra, who urged the apex court to take up the matter, citing widespread hardship caused to passengers. However, the court noted that judicial propriety required the issue to be addressed first by the High Court.

High Court Already Examining the Issue

Referring to proceedings before the Delhi High Court, the Bench noted that on December 10, the High Court had questioned the Centre for not taking timely steps to prevent the crisis and asked why the situation was allowed to escalate, leaving lakhs of passengers stranded while other airlines charged exorbitant fares.

The High Court is hearing a PIL seeking directions to the Union government to ensure refunds and provide support to passengers affected by IndiGo’s large-scale flight cancellations.

Liberty Granted to Re-Approach Supreme Court

The Supreme Court permitted Mishra to join the proceedings before the Delhi High Court and raise all his concerns there.

“If all grievances are not redressed, then nothing stops him or any other public-spirited individual from approaching this Court,” the Bench observed.

Senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for IndiGo, informed the court that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had constituted an expert committee on December 5 to examine the flight cancellations and the difficulties faced by passengers.

Taking note of this submission, the Bench observed that all issues raised in the PIL were already under consideration before the Delhi High Court.

Passengers Facing Severe Hardship

During the hearing, Mishra highlighted the severe distress faced by passengers due to repeated cancellations. Responding to this, the Chief Justice remarked that the concern was genuine but reiterated that the High Court, being a constitutional court, was already addressing the issue.

Earlier, the Supreme Court had refused to grant urgent hearing to the plea, noting that the Centre had taken cognisance of the matter and initiated steps to resolve it.

IndiGo has been facing criticism from both the government and passengers after cancelling hundreds of flights, citing regulatory changes in pilots’ flight duty time limitations and safety norms. The disruptions have left lakhs of travellers stranded at airports across the country.

Dense Fog Disrupts Air Traffic at Delhi Airport; Over 60 Flights Cancelled, 250 Delayed

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Air traffic operations at the Indira Gandhi International Airport were severely disrupted on Monday due to dense fog and poor visibility, leading to the cancellation of over 60 flights and diversion of at least five others, officials said.

According to airport authorities, as many as 61 flights were cancelled and five diverted, while more than 250 flights faced delays owing to low visibility conditions that dipped below operational minima.

In a post on X shortly after 10 am, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) said flight operations continued to be impacted by dense fog.

“Our on-ground officials are working closely with all stakeholders to assist passengers and provide necessary support across terminals,” DIAL said.

Airlines Adjust Operations

India’s largest carrier IndiGo said that dense fog had severely affected flight operations not only at Delhi airport but also at several other airports across northern India.

“Low visibility (below minima), due to dense fog, has severely impacted operations at Delhi and other airports across northern India, which is unfortunately beyond our control,” the airline said in a statement.

IndiGo added that as operations are adjusted to prevailing weather conditions, some flights may experience delays while a few may be proactively cancelled to ensure passenger safety and minimise prolonged waiting at airports. However, the airline did not specify the number of its cancelled or delayed flights.

The airline said its teams were closely monitoring the situation in coordination with airport authorities and that advisories were being issued to passengers to minimise inconvenience.

Busiest Airport Hit

Delhi airport, the country’s busiest aviation hub, handles around 1,300 flight movements daily. Fog-related disruptions are common during winter months, often impacting schedules across north India.

Passengers have been advised to check flight status with their respective airlines before heading to the airport.

Kashmir Issue Turned Controversial Due to Nehru’s Decisions: UP CM Yogi Adityanath

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Monday blamed India’s first Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru for the extremism and separatism “emanating from Kashmir”, alleging that decisions taken during the early years of Independence made the issue so controversial that it continues to trouble the nation even today.

Addressing a programme held on the 75th death anniversary of India’s first Home Minister, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Adityanath highlighted Patel’s role in integrating more than 560 princely states into the Indian Union and contrasted it with the handling of the Jammu and Kashmir issue.

Referring to the integration of Junagadh and Hyderabad, Adityanath said both princely states had initially refused to accede to India. “All Hindu princely states agreed to become part of the Republic of India, but the Nawab of Junagadh and the Nizam of Hyderabad refused. These states were integrated through a bloodless revolution, solely due to the wisdom and leadership of Sardar Patel,” he said.

The Chief Minister claimed that uncertainty surrounded the fate of Jammu and Kashmir after Independence. “Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru took the matter into his own hands and made Jammu and Kashmir so controversial that it continues to sting India even today. The country inherited extremism and separatism from Kashmir because of Pandit Nehru,” he alleged.

Praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Adityanath said the abrogation of Article 370 fulfilled the vision of Sardar Patel and Bharatiya Jana Sangh founder Syama Prasad Mookerjee. “By abolishing Article 370, Kashmir has been fully integrated with India, advancing the resolve of one nation, one constitution and one flag,” he said.

Tribute to Sardar Patel

Born in Nadiad, Gujarat, in 1875, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was a central figure in India’s freedom struggle. As independent India’s first Home Minister, he played a decisive role in integrating over 560 princely states into the Indian Union. Patel passed away in 1950, leaving behind a legacy of national unity and administrative firmness.

LG Manoj Sinha Chairs 84th University Council Meeting of Kashmir University, Pushes NEP-Aligned Reforms

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Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday chaired the 84th meeting of the University Council of the University of Kashmir (KU) at Lok Bhavan here, emphasizing the need for contemporary, interdisciplinary and skill-oriented academic programmes in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The Lieutenant Governor, who is also the Chancellor of the University of Kashmir, underlined that higher education institutions must focus on innovation, employability and entrepreneurship, while ensuring that academic initiatives are aligned with local and regional developmental requirements. He advised the University to strengthen integrated and professional programmes to meet emerging academic and industry demands.

Key Academic Approvals

The University Council accorded in-principle approval to several significant academic and administrative proposals. These included adoption of a revised policy mechanism for admission of foreign (international) students, change of nomenclature of the Department of Earth Sciences to the Department of Geology, and introduction of Five-Year Integrated Master’s Programmes (FYIMP) in Applied Geology, Tourism and Travel Management, Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, and Home Science.

The Council also approved the Programme Project Report (PPR) for M.A. History to be offered through the Centre for Distance and Online Education (CDOE). Approval was further granted for extension of Merit and Merit-cum-Means Scholarship schemes to students enrolled in Five-Year Integrated Programmes.

Regulations governing five-year integrated programmes, including FYIMP in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, were approved, while recommendations of the Deans’ Committee on adoption of statutes governing the Ph.D. programme were discussed.

New Diplomas, Institutes and Language Programmes

The Council approved modifications in statutes governing Undergraduate Programmes (UGP-2022) in accordance with NEP-2020, including changes in degree nomenclature and adoption of standardized formats for certificates, diplomas and degrees.

Approval was also accorded for the introduction of a two-year Diploma in Calligraphy as a joint academic programme between the Institute of Music and Fine Arts, KU and the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages, Srinagar.

In-principle approval was granted for the establishment of an Institute of Nursing and Paramedical Sciences at the University’s Kupwara Campus, introduction of a Diploma Programme in Criminal Justice through CDOE, and a Five-Year Integrated Master’s Programme at the Media Education Research Centre (MERC).

Additionally, FYIMP programmes in Hindi, Linguistics and English Language Teaching, Persian, Sanskrit and Kashmiri were approved, aimed at promoting multilingual education, cultural preservation and advanced studies in classical and regional languages.

MoU for Academic Collaboration

On the occasion, the University of Kashmir signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Siddharth University, Uttar Pradesh, to promote academic collaboration in research and education.

VC Presents Achievements

Earlier, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Kashmir, Prof. Nilofer Khan, presented the agenda items before the Council and briefed members on the academic, research and institutional achievements of the University.

Dignitaries Present

The meeting was attended by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah; Vice-Chancellor, University of Jammu, Prof. Umesh Rai; Vice-Chancellor, Cluster University Srinagar, Prof. Mohammad Mobin; Vice-Chancellor, Cluster University of Jammu, Prof. K.S. Chandrasekar; Additional Chief Secretary, Higher Education Department, Shantmanu; Principal Secretary, Finance Department, Santosh D. Vaidya; Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor, Dr. Mandeep K. Bhandari; Administrative Secretary, Planning Development & Monitoring Department, Dr. Ashish Chander; Vice-Chancellor, Siddharth University, Prof. Kavita Shah; Prof. A.S.K. Sinha; Registrar KU Prof. Naseer Iqbal; Dean School of Business Studies Prof. Mushtaq Ahmad Darzi, besides other Council members and senior officials, both in person and virtually.

Teen from Reasi Allegedly Radicalised for Suicide Attack; Major Terror Plot Foiled in Jammu

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A 19-year-old youth from Reasi district, recently arrested from the Bathindi area of Jammu for suspected links with terrorists, was allegedly being radicalised by Pakistan-based handlers to carry out a suicide attack in the Jammu region, official sources have revealed.

The accused has been identified as Mohammad Sajid, a resident of Reasi who was currently living in Bathindi and preparing for the NEET examination. According to sources, Sajid was in regular contact with several youths based in Kashmir, Kishtwar, Nepal and other parts of the Union Territory. These individuals were reportedly part of a wider terror network operating under instructions from handlers across the border in Pakistan.

Sources said Sajid was directed through this network to collect explosive material from Kashmir with the intention of executing a suicide bombing in Jammu. However, before the plan could advance further, a joint team of the Jammu and Kashmir Police and Police Component Jammu arrested him on the evening of November 26, thereby foiling what is being described as a major terror plot.

Case Taken Over by SOG, UAPA Invoked

The investigation in FIR No. 331/2025, initially registered at Police Station Bahu Fort under Section 113(3) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), has now been taken over by a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP)-led panel of the Special Operation Group (SOG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police.

To facilitate a deeper and wider probe, provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) have also been invoked, sources confirmed.

Encrypted Communication with Handlers

Investigators have learnt that Sajid had been in frequent contact with his handlers for nearly three months through encrypted platforms such as the Session app, besides WhatsApp and Instagram. Though no specific target had reportedly been assigned to him initially, he was allegedly asked to conduct surveillance of certain locations and was gradually indoctrinated to carry out the attack.

During interrogation, the accused reportedly confessed that he was unaware of the grave legal and personal consequences of his actions.

Probe to Uncover Wider Network

The DySP-led SOG panel is currently probing multiple dimensions of the case, including identifying other individuals involved, tracing financial and logistical links, and uncovering the larger objectives and operational structure of the terror network behind the conspiracy.

Security agencies said further arrests and disclosures are expected as the investigation progresses.

Sanjay Raut Critiques Ruling Parties Over Lack of LoP

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut on Saturday attacked the ruling parties in Maharashtra, claiming their failure to appoint Leaders of the Opposition (LoP) highlights a fear of democratic scrutiny that undermines constitutional processes. Raut stated that it is shameful for Maharashtra to lack a Leader of the Opposition in either House of the state legislature.

Raut expressed concern, emphasizing that having a Leader of the Opposition in municipal corporations, state assemblies, and Parliament is a democratic necessity and a constitutional requirement. He highlighted the need for this position to promote transparency and accountability within the democratic framework.

Over the past decade, Raut alleged, systematic efforts have aimed to obstruct the appointment of Leaders of Opposition through electoral manipulation and political pressure. According to Raut, “The BJP has consistently tried to weaken and insult the institution of the Leader of Opposition. Legislative business is conducted without an LoP, indicating that ruling parties are afraid of the post.”

He reminded journalists that Maharashtra has a rich democratic tradition of appointing Leaders of the Opposition, even when opposition parties held fewer seats. Raut pointed out, “Even when the BJP lacked numerical strength in Parliament, it was granted LoP status. This vital tradition is now being intentionally dismantled.”

The call for appointing Leaders of Opposition in both Houses gained traction as Shiv Sena (UBT) nominated Bhaskar Jadhav for the Legislative Assembly and Congress suggested Satej Patil for the Legislative Council.

Opposition to Division of Maharashtra

In addition, Raut condemned Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule for his recent comments regarding the potential creation of a separate Vidarbha state. Raut suggested that this proposal enjoys the backing of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

“Shiv Sena (UBT) will strongly oppose any attempt to divide Maharashtra. The state’s unity is non-negotiable,” Raut stated firmly, reiterating the party’s commitment to maintaining the state’s integrity.

Parliament Debate Reinforces Democratic Spirit

Raut also referenced the recent Vande Mataram debate in Parliament, asserting that the ruling BJP appeared anxious regarding the presence and performance of Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. He highlighted that their participation injected enthusiasm into the debate, suggesting it reinforced the vitality of democracy.

“The debate revealed the strengths of our opposition, showing that democracy is alive and well. It also exposed the BJP and its affiliated groups in a way that no one can ignore,” Raut commented.

Furthermore, Raut urged a discussion on the Maharashtra Geet in the state legislature. He believes that doing so would ignite important conversations about the contributions of various leaders and movements in shaping Maharashtra and Mumbai.

Veteran Congress Leader Shivraj Patil Laid to Rest in Latur

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The last rites of veteran Congress leader Shivraj Patil were performed with full state honours on Saturday in his home district Latur, as the nation bid farewell to one of its most experienced parliamentarians and statesmen. Patil, who passed away on Friday at the age of 90, left behind a significant legacy in Indian politics.

Several senior leaders across party lines attended the funeral, including Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Union Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth, former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, and Karnataka Minister Eshwar Khandre. Their presence underscored Patil’s impact on political discourse in India.

A prominent leader of the Lingayat community, Patil was buried at his farm in Varvanti village, approximately six kilometres from Latur, following traditional Lingayat rites. He was laid to rest in a seated, meditative posture, a reflection of the community’s belief that the soul merges directly with Lord Shiva after death, eliminating the need for cremation.

Before his burial, a ceremonial gun salute honoured Patil’s contributions to Indian democracy. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla laid a wreath, while Maharashtra Congress President Harshwardhan Sapkal and Latur Lok Sabha MP Shivaji Kolge were also present at the ceremony, paying their respects to a man whose political journey left a mark on many.

A Political Journey Spanning Five Decades

Shivraj Patil’s political career spanned over five decades, during which he held several key positions in the Union government, including Speaker of the Lok Sabha and Union Home Minister. He began his public life as a member of the Latur Municipal Corporation in 1967 and later served two terms as a member of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly between 1972 and 1980.

From 1980 onwards, he represented the Latur Lok Sabha constituency for seven consecutive terms, winning elections in 1980, 1984, 1989, 1991, 1996, 1998, and 1999. Patil’s enduring electoral success highlighted his connection with the electorate in Latur.

He first joined the Indira Gandhi-led government as Minister of State for Defence (1980–82) before taking charge of various ministries, including Commerce, Science and Technology, Atomic Energy, Electronics, and Space. During the Rajiv Gandhi government, he also served as Minister for Personnel, Defence Production, Civil Aviation, and Tourism. His tenure culminated in 2004 when he took charge as the Union Home Minister, a role he held until resigning in moral accountability for security lapses during the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.

In recognition of his administrative acumen, Patil served as Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh from 2010 to 2015, further solidifying his legacy in public service.

A Speaker Known for Integrity

Patil was widely respected for his commitment to parliamentary ethics. A notable incident from March 1979 is often referenced; he demonstrated his integrity when unverified reports circulated regarding the death of Gandhian leader Jayaprakash Narayan. While many leaders, including Prime Minister Morarji Desai, offered condolences in Parliament, Patil insisted on official confirmation. He promptly contacted the doctors treating Narayan, confirming he was alive. The Assembly later passed a resolution wishing Narayan continued health, showcasing Patil’s deep commitment to factual integrity.

Shivraj Patil’s death marks the end of an era defined by parliamentary decorum, administrative experience, and political integrity. His contributions will be remembered by many in the political arena, making his legacy enduring in the hearts of those he served.

AJK Transporters Call Off ‘Chakka-Jam’ After Talks with Minister Satish Sharma

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The All Jammu & Kashmir Transport Welfare Association (AJKTWA) on Friday suspended its proposed ‘Chakka-Jam’ strike scheduled for December 15, following a high-level meeting with Transport Minister Satish Sharma at the Civil Secretariat.

The decision came after the Transport Minister intervened and convened an urgent meeting to address the long-pending issues faced by the transport community. The meeting, which lasted for over two hours, was attended by senior administrative and police officials, along with office-bearers of the Association.

Chairman of the J&K Transporters Association, Karan Singh Wazir, said the strike had been announced to draw attention to unresolved concerns of transporters, but the Minister’s assurance of time-bound solutions prompted the Association to defer the agitation.

Key Assurances Given

During the meeting, the Transport Minister gave a patient hearing to the transporters and assured resolution of several key issues:

  • E-Bus Routes & Scheduling: The Minister assured that issues related to e-bus routes and schedules would be resolved within two weeks.
  • Fare Revision: The department was directed to expedite the fare revision process, noting that the proposal has already been forwarded to the Finance Department for approval.
  • E-Challans: The IGP Traffic informed that nearly 27,000 challans are under scrutiny and clarified that casual challans will not result in blacklisting; only serious violations will be considered. E-challaning will be strictly enforced through authorized devices only.
  • Fitness Fee Hike: The Association was assured that the fitness fee hike would be reviewed and rationalised as per policy provisions.
  • Automated Testing Stations (ATS): On the request for additional time to comply with ATS norms, the Minister assured that an extension of up to four months would be taken up with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), considering the genuine difficulties faced by transporters.
  • Pending Payments: On long-pending dues related to PM rallies, Operation Sindoor, Khelo India events and the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, the Government assured that payments would be released in a time-bound manner.

Strike Deferred, Review After Two Weeks

Following these assurances, AJKTWA decided to suspend the December 15 strike. The Association will wait for two weeks, as assured by the Minister, and will then convene a General Body Meeting to assess progress and decide the future course of action.

Officials & Representatives Present

The meeting was attended by Transport Secretary Avny Lavasa, Additional Secretary Transport, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, IGP Traffic J&K, Managing Director JKSRTC, Joint Transport Commissioner, two Regional Transport Officers (RTOs) and several senior officers.

Association representatives present included Vijay Singh Chib, Mohd Shabir, Parvinder Singh, Bharat Bhushan, Anan Sharma, Ranjit Singh, Mohd Yousuf, Abdul Majid, Showkat Ali, Sanjeev Choudhary, Vijay Dogra, Gurdeep Singh, Irshad, Mudasir and others.