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Minor Driving Case: Srinagar Court Awards 3-Year Jail to Guardian, Imposes ₹25,000 Fine; Grants Probation, Cancels Vehicle Registration

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Minor Driving Case: Srinagar Court Awards 3-Year Jail to Guardian, Imposes ₹25,000 Fine; Grants Probation, Cancels Vehicle Registration

Srinagar, Feb 21: A Special Mobile Magistrate (Traffic) Court in Srinagar convicted a Budgam resident after a minor was found driving a vehicle, holding the guardian liable under Section 199-A of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.

The case, titled UT of J&K through Traffic Police, Rural Kashmir, was instituted and decided on February 18, 2026, by the Court of Special Mobile Magistrate (Traffic) Kashmir at Srinagar, presided over by Shabir Ahmad Malik.

According to the judgment, a copy of which lies with news agency Kashmir Dot Com, the challan was produced against Syed Mohammad Hussain Razvi, son of Syed Ibrahim Razvi, a resident of Heewader, Jawalapora, Budgam, who is the guardian and owner of the vehicle driven by a minor at the time of the offence.

The court observed that under Section 199-A of the Motor Vehicles Act, when an offence is committed by a juvenile, the guardian or owner of the motor vehicle is deemed guilty and is liable to be proceeded against and punished accordingly. The provision also presumes that the vehicle was used with the guardian’s consent unless proven otherwise.

During the proceedings, the accused appeared before the court along with his counsel and pleaded guilty. The court recorded his statement in writing and noted that he did not wish to contest the charges despite being given sufficient opportunity.

Upon conviction under Section 199-A of the Motor Vehicles Act, the court sentenced the accused to three years of simple imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 25,000. Additionally, the registration of the vehicle bearing number JK04K-0673 was ordered to be cancelled for a period of twelve months.

However, considering that the offence did not involve moral turpitude and that the accused had no prior convictions, the court extended the benefit of the Probation of Offenders Act. The accused was directed to execute a bond of Rs 2 lakh to maintain peace and good behaviour for a period of two years. In case of violation of the bond conditions, he would undergo the proposed sentence and the bond amount would be forfeited to the government.

The court further ordered that the vehicle and related documents, if any, be released in favour of the registered owner after due process. The challan was accordingly disposed of and consigned to records.

LG Manoj Sinha Administers Oath to Shantmanu as State Election Commissioner

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LG Manoj Sinha Administers Oath to Shantmanu as State Election Commissioner

Jammu, Feb 21 : Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday administered the oath of office to Shantmanu as the State Election Commissioner of Jammu and Kashmir at a ceremony held at Lok Bhavan.

The oath-taking ceremony was attended by senior officials and dignitaries. Shantmanu formally assumed charge as the State Election Commissioner following the administration of oath.

The oath taking ceremony was attended by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary, legislative assembly speaker Abdur Rahim Rather council of ministers and Chief Secretary, and Director General of Police.

PM to participate in groundbreaking ceremony of HCL–Foxconn Joint Venture project on 21 February

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PM to participate in groundbreaking ceremony of HCL–Foxconn Joint Venture project on 21 February

Vinod Bhat

New Delhi: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will participate in the groundbreaking ceremony of the HCL-Foxconn Joint Venture project – India Chip Pvt. Ltd. – in the Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA), Uttar Pradesh, on 21st February, 2026, at around 5 PM via video conferencing. Prime Minister will also address the gathering on the occasion.

The establishment of the HCL-Foxconn semiconductor facility marks a significant milestone in India’s journey towards technological self-reliance and reflects the Prime Minister’s vision of positioning India as a trusted global destination for high-end electronics and semiconductor manufacturing.

This Outsourced Semiconductor Assembly and Test (OSAT) facility at YEIDA will be set up by India Chip Pvt. Ltd. under the Modified Scheme for Semiconductor Assembly, Testing, Marking and Packaging (ATMP), with a total investment of over Rs 3,700 crore. The project is aligned with the Government’s efforts to strengthen domestic manufacturing capabilities, reduce import dependence, and build resilient global supply chains. It is expected to play a crucial role in supporting key sectors such as mobiles phones, tablet, laptop, automotive, consumer electronics and other devices.

Through this initiative, India’s semiconductor ecosystem will receive a major boost, fostering innovation, skill development, and technology transfer. The facility is also expected to create thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities to engineers, technicians, and professionals, while catalysing growth in ancillary industries.

The HCL–Foxconn joint venture underscores India’s growing stature in the global semiconductor landscape and represents a major step forward in building a robust and self-reliant electronics manufacturing ecosystem.

Major IAS Reshuffle in J&K: 22 Officers Transferred in Sweeping Administrative Overhaul

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Major IAS Reshuffle in J&K: 22 Officers Transferred in Sweeping Administrative Overhaul
TAUSEEF AHMAD
SRINAGAR, Feb 20: In a significant bureaucratic reshuffle aimed at strengthening governance and streamlining administrative functioning, the Government of Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday ordered the transfer and posting of 22 senior IAS and JKAS officers with immediate effect.
The transfers were formalised through Government Order No. 230-JK(GAD) of 2026, issued by the General Administration Department (All India Services Section), Civil Secretariat, J&K, in the interest of administration.
Key Appointments at the Top
Among the major changes, Ashwani Kumar (IAS, 1992 batch), who was awaiting adjustment in the General Administration Department, has been posted as Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary), Power Development Department. He will also hold the additional charge of Administrative Secretary, Mining Department, until further orders.
Dr. Ashish Chandra Verma (IAS, 1994 batch), Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary), Tourism Department, will now additionally hold the charge of Administrative Secretary, Agriculture Production Department.
In another important move, Shailendra Kumar (IAS, 1995 batch), Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary), Agriculture Production Department, has been transferred and posted as Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary), Finance Department — a crucial assignment given the UT’s fiscal priorities and developmental commitments.
M. Raju (IAS, 2005 batch), Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, General Administration Department, will hold the additional charge of Administrative Secretary, Health and Medical Education Department, further consolidating administrative oversight in the vital health sector.
Ms. R. Alice Vaz (IAS, 2005 batch), who was awaiting orders of adjustment, has been appointed Commissioner/Secretary to the Government, Planning, Development and Monitoring Department. She will also hold additional charge of Administrative Secretary, Information Department.
Youth, Technology and Cooperative Sectors See Changes
Ms. Yasha Mudgal (IAS, 2007 batch), Commissioner/Secretary, Youth Services and Sports Department, has been transferred to head the Cooperatives Department.
Dr. Shahid Iqbal Choudhary (IAS, 2009 batch), Commissioner/Secretary, Science and Technology Department, has been posted as Commissioner/Secretary, Youth Services and Sports Department.
Dr. Piyush Singla (IAS, 2012 batch), Secretary, Information Technology Department, will additionally hold charge of Administrative Secretary, Public Grievances Department, relieving Naveen S. L. (IAS, 2012 batch) of the additional responsibility.
Ms. Babila Rakwal (JKAS), Commissioner/Secretary, Cooperatives Department, has been transferred and posted as Commissioner/Secretary, Science and Technology Department.
Changes in Mission and Registration Departments
Ms. Anjali Sehrawat (IAS, 2013 batch) has been appointed as Mission Director, Jal Jeevan Mission, replacing Khurshid Ahmad Shah (JKAS), who will await further posting orders.
Ms. Nidhi Malik (IAS, 2013 batch), Deputy Commissioner, Reasi, has been transferred and posted as Inspector General, Registration, J&K. Bashir Ahmad Bhat (IRS, 2014 batch), who was holding the post, has been directed to await further orders.
Dr. Sagar D. Dattatray (IAS, 2014 batch), awaiting orders in the GAD, has been posted as Director, Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Kashmir.
Owais Ahmed (IAS, 2014 batch) has been posted as Director, Skill Development, J&K, while continuing to hold additional charge as Special Secretary, Planning, Development and Monitoring Department.
Deputy Commissioners Reshuffled
The reshuffle also witnessed significant changes at the district level:
Ather Aamir Ul Shafi Khan (IAS, 2016 batch) has been transferred from Kulgam and posted as Deputy Commissioner, Budgam.
Kumar Abhishek (IAS, 2016 batch) has been posted as Deputy Commissioner, Reasi.
Ankita Sagar (IAS, 2016 batch) has been appointed Managing Director, National Health Mission, J&K, and will also hold additional charge as Special Secretary, Health and Medical Education Department.
Bilal Mohi-ud-Din Bhat (IAS, 2017 batch) has been transferred from Budgam and posted as Deputy Commissioner, Anantnag.
Minga Sherpa (IAS, 2017 batch) has been shifted from Baramulla to Udhampur as Deputy Commissioner.
Syed Fakhrudin Hamid (IAS, 2017 batch) has been transferred from Anantnag to Baramulla as Deputy Commissioner.
Harvinder Singh (IAS, 2019 batch) has been posted as Director, Employment, J&K, and will also hold additional charge as Chief Executive Officer, Mission Youth and Mission Director, Mission YUVA.
Shahzad Alam (IAS, 2019 batch) has been appointed Deputy Commissioner, Kulgam.
Krishan Lal (JKAS), Special Secretary in the Lieutenant Governor’s Secretariat, has been posted as Deputy Commissioner, Doda.

IGP Kashmir Chairs Security Review Meeting Ahead of VVIP Visit at PCR Kashmir

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IGP Kashmir Chairs Security Review Meeting Ahead of VVIP Visit at PCR Kashmir

Srinagar, February 20, : V.K. Birdi, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, chaired a high-level security review meeting today at PCR Kashmir in preparation for the forthcoming VVIP visit to Jammu & Kashmir.

The meeting was attended by senior officers from various security and intelligence agencies, including Police, Army, CRPF, ITBP, BSF, SSB, CID, Traffic, Railways, and other allied units. Among those present were Additional Commissioner SB Srinagar; DIsG of CRPF (South/North Srinagar) and CRPF Srinagar Sector; DIG Armed Kashmir; DIsG BSF and SSB Srinagar; DIsG IRP/Traffic Kashmir and CID Kashmir; all Range DIsG of Kashmir Zone; all District SSsP of Kashmir Zone; SSP Traffic City Srinagar; Assistant Director SIB Srinagar; Colonel GS 15 Corps; SSsP of PCR Kashmir, Traffic Rural Kashmir, Railways Kashmir, CID SB Kashmir, Security Kashmir, APCR, and other senior officers.

During the meeting, detailed security plans were presented and reviewed to ensure comprehensive arrangements for the VVIP visit. IGP Kashmir stressed the need for heightened alertness to effectively counter potential terrorist threats. He underscored the importance of strengthening intelligence gathering mechanisms, reinforcing security at vulnerable locations, and ensuring effective area and night domination. Special emphasis was laid on securing critical infrastructure and safeguarding vital installations. The strategic deployment of CI/QRTs was also discussed to ensure swift response to any emerging situation.

V.K. Birdi directed officers to enhance security measures across both urban and rural areas of the Valley, with intensified round-the-clock patrolling and strengthened surveillance at key entry and exit points. He further instructed that personnel be thoroughly briefed on Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and that vulnerable areas be closely monitored to enable prompt action against any suspicious activity.

The participating officers reaffirmed their commitment to implementing the security arrangements with utmost coordination and precision. Concluding the meeting, IGP Kashmir reiterated the collective responsibility of all forces to maintain a secure environment and ensure the safety of the VVIP, residents, and visitors alike.

J&K Govt Suspends SMC Executive Engineer Over ‘Substandard’ Macadamization, Development Works

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J&K Govt Suspends SMC Executive Engineer Over ‘Substandard’ Macadamization, Development Works

Srinagar, Feb 20: The Jammu and Kashmir Government on Friday suspended Er. Imtiaz Ahmad, In-charge Executive Engineer (Civil) of the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), following complaints regarding the quality of macadamization and other developmental works in the city.

According to an official order, the suspension was ordered on the directions of the Deputy Chief Minister’s Office amid mounting concerns over substandard road construction works in Srinagar.

The order, issued by Financial Commissioner (Additional Chief Secretary) Anil Kumar Singh, places the officer under suspension under Rule 31 of the J&K Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1956.

During the suspension period, Er. Imtiaz Ahmad has been attached to the office of the Chief Engineer, Public Works (R&B), Zone North, Kashmir.

The government has also ordered a departmental inquiry to probe allegations against the officer, particularly relating to the quality of macadamization and projects executed by the City Roads Division over the past two years, along with all other developmental works carried out under his supervision.

Er. Sushil Kumar, In-charge Chief Engineer of PWD (R&B) Zone North, has been appointed as the Inquiry Officer and has been directed to submit his report within 30 days. The inquiry will examine the quality of works and materials used in road construction projects undertaken by the SMC’s City Roads Division.

In a separate arrangement, Er. Fareed Ahmad Khan, In-charge Executive Engineer of PWD Dalgate Division, has been given additional charge of the City Roads (SMC) Division. He will also act as the Presenting Officer in the departmental proceedings against the suspended engineer.

The government has clarified that any subsequent modification in the posting of either the Inquiry Officer or the Presenting Officer will not affect their assigned responsibilities in connection with the inquiry.

J&K Govt Suspends CEO Bandipora Pending Inquiry

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J&K Govt Suspends CEO Bandipora Pending Inquiry

Jammu, Feb 20: The Jammu and Kashmir Government has placed Balbir Kumar, Chief Education Officer (CEO) Bandipora, under suspension pending an inquiry into his conduct.

According to Government Order No. 79-JK (Edu) of 2026 dated February 20, issued by the School Education Department, Balbir Kumar has been suspended with immediate effect under Rule 31 of the Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Classification, Control and Appeal) Rules, 1956.

The order states that pending enquiry into his conduct, the officer will remain attached to the office of the Directorate of School Education, Kashmir, during the period of suspension. 

Chinar Open Winter Games 2026: Building, Legacy of Winter Sports by The Indian Army

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Chinar Open Winter Games 2026: Building, Legacy of Winter Sports by The Indian Army

Srinagar: Amid the snow-clad slopes of Gulmarg in Jammu & Kashmir, the Chinar Open Winter Games 2026 stand as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of sport in conflict-affected and high-altitude regions. Hosted by the Indian Army on 19 and 20 February 2026, this two-day sporting festival is far more than a competition it is a celebration of community, resilience, youth empowerment and the enduring spirit of winter athletics.

 

Over the years, the Chinar Open Winter Games has evolved from a modest sporting initiative into one of the most eagerly anticipated annual events in Kashmir’s winter calendar. Born out of a vision to provide structured opportunities for youth engagement, the Games have helped fill a vital gap in a region where recreational and competitive sports options are limited. The Indian Army, through its longstanding outreach programmes such as “Operation Sadbhavana”, uses the Games as a vehicle to channel youthful energy toward constructive competition and positive societal goals.

At its heart, the Chinar Open is rooted in the belief that sport can serve as a unifying force — one that transcends social barriers, builds self-confidence and fosters healthy lifestyles. The terrain of Gulmarg, one of India’s premier winter sports destinations, offers an ideal natural playground. Snow-covered slopes that challenge even seasoned athletes create a dramatic backdrop for events ranging from skiing and snowboarding to skating competitions. Beyond the traditional sporting disciplines, the Games often include community-oriented activities like snow cricket, snowshoe races, and snow Kho Kho, designed to make winter athletics accessible and exciting for all participants.

A key objective of the 2026 edition has been to deepen this engagement and promote a holistic sporting culture. With participation steadily increasing year-on-year, organizers are witnessing a surge in interest from young athletes across Kashmir. The Army’s efforts to bring girls into the fold of winter sports have been especially noteworthy, as female athletes continue to break new ground and challenge stereotypes in a traditionally male-dominated sporting domain.

This year’s Games come at a time when winter sports in India are gaining unprecedented momentum. On the national stage, platforms like the Khelo India Winter Games 2026 held in Leh and Gulmarg are amplifying interest in sports such as ice hockey, alpine skiing, skate sports and snowboarding. The Khelo India events involve athletes from across the country and are designed to integrate regional talent into India’s broader competitive sports ecosystem.

In this larger context, the Chinar Open serves as a vital grassroots complement identifying, nurturing and showcasing local talent that might otherwise remain unnoticed. The Games have already produced athletes who are competing at distinguished levels. A notable example is Arif Khan, India’s leading alpine skier from Tangmarg, whose journey from the Gulmarg slopes to the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina 2026 has inspired a generation of young winter sport enthusiasts. His rise underscores the immense potential that exists in Jammu & Kashmir and the importance of sustained competitive platforms like the Chinar Games.

Beyond athletic success, one of the most profound impacts of the Chinar Open lies in its role as a social intervention. Jammu & Kashmir has faced persistent challenges related to youth idleness, drug abuse and socio-economic instability. According to recent health reports, substance misuse has affected large segments of the youth population, exacerbating mental health issues and diminishing opportunities for personal and communal growth.

In response, the Indian Army has positioned the Games as more than a sporting festival as a counterbalance to negative influences and a catalyst for positive change. By providing structured, supervised activities that build teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness, the Chinar Open not only nurtures athletes but also fosters valuable life skills. The message is clear: sport offers a healthy outlet for ambition and a source of pride for participants, families and communities alike.

The ripple effects extend to local economic and cultural life as well. Tourism in Gulmarg receives a seasonal boost as athletes, families and spectators converge on the town, invigorating hotels, restaurants and small businesses. At the same time, cultural programmes held alongside the sporting events showcase the rich heritage of Jammu & Kashmir, further bridging the gap between visitors and locals. This synergy between sport, culture and community reinforces the region’s identity as an emerging hub for winter athletics in India.

Crucially, the Chinar Open Winter Games have fostered a sense of unity and pride among participants. Local youth leaders and residents regularly commend the event for bringing people together, encouraging peer support, and creating an inclusive space where talent can be celebrated without prejudice. Whether a first-time competitor trying skis for the first time or a seasoned athlete competing at high speeds, every participant experiences the camaraderie that the Games are built upon.

Looking ahead, organizers and stakeholders are eager to expand the scope of the Games. Plans include enhanced coaching clinics, junior leagues and collaborations with national and international winter sports bodies to raise the level of competition further. Workshops on sports safety, conditioning and nutrition are also envisioned to complement the competitive experience, ensuring that athletes receive holistic development and preparation for future challenges.

The Chinar Open Winter Games 2026 exemplify how thoughtfully designed sporting events can transcend the boundaries of competition and emerge as instruments of social transformation. With each passing year, the Games reinforce their reputation as a nurturing ground for athletes, a beacon of community engagement and a testament to what vision and commitment can achieve in even the most challenging environments. The legacy being built on the snow-covered slopes of Gulmarg is not only about medals and records it is about resilience, opportunity and the transformative power of sport in shaping a brighter future for the youth of Jammu & Kashmir.

DC Budgam Chairs Review Meeting on Operational and Safety-Related Infrastructure Issues at NIFT Budgam Campus

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DC Budgam Chairs Review Meeting on Operational and Safety-Related Infrastructure Issues at NIFT Budgam Campus

Directs Time-Bound Completion of Pending Works; Stresses Strict Safety Compliance.

Budgam;20 FEB: Deputy Commissioner Budgam, Dr. Bilal Mohi-ud-din Bhat, IAS, today chaired a detailed review meeting to assess the operational and safety-related infrastructure issues of NIFT Budgam at DC office complex budgam to ensure time-bound completion of all pending works.

The DC took stock of the overall physical progress of the campus, which is spread over 132 kanals of land provided by the Government, and comprises 22 planned buildings, of which 19 buildings are substantially complete.

He observed that despite significant progress, several critical components remain pending, hindering the full operationalization of the campus.

The DC reviewed agenda-wise issues in detail and issued the following directions:
Regarding HVAC Systems, the chair was informed that HVAC systems are malfunctioning in the Administrative Block, Academic Block, Girls’ Hostel, Guest House, Director’s Residence, and Residential Quarters, while installation and commissioning in the Boys’ Hostel remain pending.
The DC directed immediate technical inspection of all HVAC installations, rectification of faults, and time-bound commissioning to ensure proper heating and ventilation facilities across all buildings.
He emphasized that given the prevailing climatic conditions, functional HVAC systems are essential for academic functioning and residential comfort.
Regarding the Electrical Sub-Station, the dc was apprised that substation works, including panels, DG sets, and transformers under Packages 2 and 3, are incomplete.
The DC directed JK SIDCO and the concerned executing agency to expedite completion of all substation components and ensure reliable and uninterrupted power supply to the campus.
He instructed that necessary measures, including utilization of the contractor’s security deposits where required, be taken to avoid further delay.
Regarding the Sewage Treatment Plant (STP), the meeting was informed that key components such as the main control panel, sludge drying beds, pumps, and recycled water pipelines are yet to be installed and commissioned.
The DC stressed the environmental significance of a fully functional STP and directed immediate installation and commissioning of all pending components to ensure proper wastewater treatment and compliance with environmental norms.
He stated that sustainable infrastructure management is a priority and must not be compromised.
Regarding Accessibility (Divyang/PWD Facilities), it was noted that essential washroom accessories for Divyang facilities are missing in hostel buildings under Package-2.
The DC directed that all required accessibility provisions be installed without delay to ensure inclusivity and compliance with statutory norms for persons with disabilities.
He emphasized that public institutions must be fully accessible and barrier-free.
Regarding Elevators, it was informed that lift installation is in progress in five Staff Quarter buildings, while commissioning under Package-3 is pending.
The DC directed early completion and commissioning after proper safety inspections and certification to make residential quarters fully operational.
Regarding Fire Safety Systems, it was observed that fire-fighting and fire alarm systems remain incomplete, posing serious safety concerns.
The DC directed that no building shall be declared fully functional without complete fire safety compliance.
He ordered immediate completion, testing, and certification of fire safety installations to safeguard life and property.
Regarding UPS Installation, it was reported that installation of UPS systems in both hostels and the Guest House remains pending with no significant progress.
The DC directed the concerned agency to initiate immediate installation to ensure uninterrupted power backup for essential services and academic operations.
Regarding Finishing Works, it was informed that finishing works are pending in Associate Professor Quarters, Staff Quarter Type-2A, and the Community Centre.
The DC directed completion of all remaining works with strict quality control and adherence to approved standards.
During the meeting, the DC emphasised strict monitoring, enhanced coordination among executing agencies, and adherence to timelines.
He reiterated that the target completion date of 31st March 2026 for all pending works must be achieved without fail.
The DC directed submission of weekly progress reports to his office and warned that accountability will be fixed in case of undue delay or non-compliance.

The meeting was attended by JD planning budgam Javaid Ahmad Najar , JD NIFT, officials from JK SIDCO, engineers of executing agencies, and district officers concerned.

725 Kg Unlabelled Honey Seized in Abanshah; DFCO Enforces FSS Act with Zero Tolerance

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725 Kg Unlabelled Honey Seized in Abanshah; DFCO Enforces FSS Act with Zero Tolerance

TAUSEEF AHMAD

SRINAGAR, Feb 20: In a decisive enforcement action aimed at curbing the circulation of unsafe and non-compliant food products, the Food Safety Enforcement Wing of the Drug and Food Control Organisation (DFCO) on Thursday seized approximately 725 kilograms of honey during a targeted inspection conducted in the Abanshah area of HMT on the outskirts of Srinagar.

The operation was carried out following specific intelligence inputs regarding the storage of food items in violation of statutory provisions. Acting swiftly on the information, a team of food safety officers conducted a focused inspection in the area. During the course of the inspection, officials discovered a substantial quantity of honey—amounting to nearly three-quarters of a metric tonne—stored without any of the mandatory labeling requirements prescribed under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 (FSS Act).

Authorities revealed that the entire consignment was found in complete violation of labeling norms. The honey containers did not display the product name, nor did they mention the net quantity of the contents. There was no indication of the date of packing or manufacturing, and no best-before or expiry date was provided to establish the product’s shelf life. Additionally, the name and full address of the manufacturer or packer were missing, making it impossible to trace the source of the product. The mandatory FSSAI license number, which certifies that a food business operator is authorized to manufacture or distribute food items under regulatory oversight, was also absent. Storage instructions, where applicable, were not mentioned either.

Officials emphasized that such a complete absence of statutory declarations is a serious breach of the FSS Act and associated regulations. Labelling requirements are designed not only to ensure transparency but also to safeguard consumer health by enabling traceability, accountability, and informed decision-making. Without these critical details, consumers remain unaware of the origin, composition, and safety of the product they may purchase and consume.

In view of the gravity of the violation, the enforcement team immediately seized the entire stock of approximately 725 kilograms to prevent its distribution in the market. The seized honey has been taken into official custody in accordance with legal procedures. Samples were collected from the consignment on the spot and sent for analytical examination to determine the quality, purity, and compliance of the product with established food safety standards. The laboratory analysis will help ascertain whether the honey meets prescribed norms or poses any potential health risk.

Officials stated that further action will be initiated against the concerned Food Business Operator (FBO) under relevant provisions of the FSS Act based on the outcome of the laboratory report and the findings of the ongoing investigation. Violations of labeling and food safety norms may attract penalties, prosecution, and other legal consequences as stipulated under the Act.

Issuing a strict warning, the DFCO reiterated that unlabelled food products are illegal and pose serious risks to public health. The department underscored that every packaged food item must carry complete and accurate information, including the name of the product, net quantity, date of packing or manufacturing, use-by or expiry date, name and address of the manufacturer or packer, FSSAI license number, and relevant storage instructions. Failure to comply with these statutory requirements will invite stringent action.

The department also appealed to consumers to remain vigilant while purchasing packaged food items. Consumers were advised to carefully check for mandatory labeling details before buying any product and to avoid purchasing items that lack proper declarations. The public has been urged to immediately report any suspicious or unlabelled food products by calling the Food Safety Helpline at 104.

The seizure in the Abanshah area of HMT highlights the DFCO’s zero-tolerance policy toward unsafe and non-compliant food products circulating in Kashmir’s markets. Officials reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying inspections and enforcement drives to ensure that only safe, properly labeled, and legally compliant food items reach consumers across the region.

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