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Congress calls for House panel to push for early statehood restoration in J&K

Kashmir Despatch
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Congress calls for House panel to push for early statehood restoration in J&K

Jammu — Congress chief whip Nizamuddin Bhat on Wednesday strongly advocated for formation of a House panel or an all-party delegation in Jammu and Kashmir to take up the issue of early statehood restoration with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.

Speaking during the discussion on the lieutenant governor’s address in the House, Bhat stressed that the delay in restoring statehood was causing “more harm than good” to the region.

“This House should constitute a panel to follow up with the Government of India as well as national parties. If not, we should take this issue to the people of the country to fulfill the goal of restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood. The sincerity of all will be tested in the formation of this panel,” he said.

Bhat argued that the Reorganisation Act, which downgraded Jammu and Kashmir to a Union Territory, was only a temporary arrangement and there was a clear commitment in Parliament to restore statehood.

“It is a constitutional imperative, as the Constitution is the supreme authority. It is also a moral obligation for the prime minister and others to uphold their commitments made in the House and elsewhere,” he said.

Bhat urged Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to lead the initiative and nominate an all-party delegation to meet Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Shah.

“He has a massive mandate and represents the aspirations of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. I request him not to shy away from this responsibility,” he said.

Bhat asked the chief minister to seek time from Prime Minister Modi and Home Minister Shah and fix a date to talk to them.

“The delegation should put up their case that this is a state which is in limbo. It is a denigrated state. We have not been elevated to any state,” he said.

Describing the current status of Jammu and Kashmir as “a state in limbo”, Bhat said the issue is not just political or emotional but a matter of dignity and honour.

“It is our responsibility, as members of this House, to be assertive and act quickly,” he stated.

Emphasizing the role of Parliament, Bhat reminded that Prime Minister Modi had committed to restoring statehood on the floor of the House.

“This legislature has expressed its desire for restoration with a thumping majority. It is imperative to respect the dignity and honour of this House,” he asserted.

Bhat also highlighted the need for a “singular power system” rather than a “dual system” in Jammu and Kashmir, calling for full legislative authority.

He further stressed the importance of protecting the region’s constitutional culture, identity, ecology and environment, which he said are under threat.

The Congress leader’s remarks come amid the ongoing political discussions on the future governance of Jammu and Kashmir, with various parties calling for the return of full statehood. — (PTI)

‘Not a security threat’: Engineer Rashid tells Delhi court, seeks custody parole

Kashmir Despatch
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‘Not a security threat’: Engineer Rashid tells Delhi court, seeks custody parole

New Delhi — Jailed Jammu and Kashmir MP Engineer Rashid on Wednesday sought custody parole to attend the upcoming Parliament session, claiming he was not a security threat.

Rashid’s counsel made the submission before additional sessions judge Chander Jit Singh, who reserved the verdict for March 7 after hearing arguments on the plea.

The plea seeking Rashid’s interim bail or custody parole was filed by advocate Vikhyat Oberoi on February 27, following which the court sought the National Investigation Agency’s (NIAs) response on March 3.

The counsel previously argued that Rashid was seeking custody parole being a parliamentarian and needed to attend the upcoming session to fulfil his public duty.

Custody parole entails a prisoner being escorted by armed police personnel to the place of visit.

Oberoi said the Delhi High Court had granted custody parole for two days enabling Rashid to attend the parliamentary sessions.

Referring to Rashid’s submission of questions on the functioning of J&K departments in Parliament, the lawyer said, “I have put in questions for all those departments. And I am therefore requesting debates on all those questions. I completely abide by the ruling of the high court (that its order of custody parole will not be treated as a precedent)…I am only trying to argue that in the face of the evidence, I am not a security threat.” He argued Rashid as a parliamentarian represented 45 per cent of Kashmir and so he could be allowed to represent his constituency.

“I am only requesting that he (Rashid) needs to go to Parliament for the people. It is not my condition. It is not my contention that it is the fundamental right of my client to attend Parliament. It is my summation that it is a fundamental duty to attend it,” the counsel said.

The NIA counsel opposed the submission and said being a parliamentarian, did not entitle a person exceptions from the effect of detention.

“Today, he is a person who is an MP (seeking custody parole on grounds of fulfilling his duty). Tomorrow, a doctor may be saying that I am accused of an offence, but I need to conduct surgery to save the lives of people and that my patients are waiting? Can he conduct surgery?… So any person may say that I have to perform my duty, I have to discharge my function…,” the NIAs counsel argued.

Sheikh Abdul Rashid, known as Engineer Rashid, defeated Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls in Baramulla.

Rashid’s regular bail application is currently pending before the court.

The second part of Parliament’s budget session would begin on March 10 and end on April 4.

The judge on September 10 granted interim bail to Rashid to enable him to campaign for the assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

Rashid surrendered in Tihar Jail on October 27.

He has been lodged in Tihar jail since 2019 after he was arrested by the NIA under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in a 2017 terror funding case.

The Delhi High Court on February 24 directed the sessions judge to expeditiously decide the bail plea of Rashid in the case.

The high court passed the directions in view of a December 24, 2024 order, by which the sessions court requested the district judge to transfer the case to a court designated to try lawmakers.

Rashid’s name cropped up during the investigation of Kashmiri businessman Zahoor Watali, who was arrested by the NIA for allegedly funding terrorist groups and separatists in the Kashmir Valley.

The NIA filed a chargesheet against several persons, including Kashmiri separatist leader Yasin Malik, Lashkar-e-Taiba founder Hafiz Saeed and Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin, in the case.

Malik was sentenced to life imprisonment by a trial court in 2022 after he pleaded guilty to the charges. — (PTI)

Pakistan mourn 18 people killed in a twin suicide bombing at an military base

Kashmir Despatch
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Pakistan mourn 18 people killed in a twin suicide bombing at an military base

Peshawar — A city in northwestern Pakistan observed a day of mourning on Wednesday, a day after a twin suicide bombing targeted a military base and killed 18 people, including five soldiers.

A militant group linked with the Pakistani Taliban claimed responsibility for the bombing in Bannu, which also left 42 wounded, some critically. Militants have targeted the city in the past.

The bombers blew themselves up to breach the base’s surrounding wall. At the time, most residents were breaking their daylong fast during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan or praying at a nearby mosque.

The blasts ripped off roofs and severely damaged the mosque. Other attackers stormed the base and set off a firefight with troops.

An army statement on Wednesday said five soldiers and 16 militants were killed.

Gunshots could be heard early Wednesday as security forces combed through the area, looking for militants. At the scene, a mechanical digger cleared rubble where homes had stood. Debris-covered prayer mats lay crumpled at the mosque.

Joint funeral prayers were held for the victims at a sports complex.

“All education institutions are closed,” Bannu community elder Alam Khan said. “Most shops are also shut. Rescue workers have completed their operation by recovering the bodies of three deceased worshippers who were trapped under the collapsed roof of the mosque.”

Bannu is in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province that borders Afghanistan. Several armed groups are active there. A group affiliated with the Pakistani Taliban, Jaish Al-Fursan, has claimed responsibility for the attack.

Militants have targeted Bannu several times. Last November, a suicide car bomb killed 12 troops and wounded several others at a security post. In July, a suicide bomber detonated his explosives-laden vehicle and other militants opened fire near the outer wall of the military facility.

Also Wednesday, a bomb struck a shop in Nal — in the district of Khuzdar in southwestern Balochistan province — and killed three people and wounded five, according to Deputy Commissioner Iqbal Dashti. People from Sindh and Punjab provinces who have moved to Balochistan often shop there.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility. Suspicion is likely to fall on Baloch separatists seeking independence from the central government in Islamabad. They have previously targeted people from elsewhere in Pakistan in a drive to expel outsiders.

intelligence official Shahid Anwar as he drove to work in the northwestern city of Peshawar’s Uzair Town neighborhood. The attacker, riding a motorcycle, fled the scene, police officer Adnan Khan said. — (AP)

DIG NKR Chairs Security Review Meeting for upcoming 5th Khelo India Winter Games

Kashmir Despatch
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DIG NKR Chairs Security Review Meeting for upcoming 5th Khelo India Winter Games

In view of the upcoming 5th Khelo India Winter Games in Gulmarg, DIG NKR Baramulla, Shri Maqsood-ul Zaman, chaired a high-level security review meeting at PC Kunzer to ensure comprehensive security arrangements for the smooth and secure conduct of the prestigious event.

The meeting was attended by SSP Baramulla, SSP Traffic Rural, CEO GDA, CO 176 CRPF, CO 2nd RR, CO 6 Dogra, CO 9 Rajrif, SDM Gulmarg, Assistant Director Tourism Gulmarg, Assistant Director Sports Council, DSP Security, AEE R&B, AEE PHE, BMO Tangmarg, EO Municipality, and AEE Mechanical.

Under the supervision of the chairing officer, a multi-layered security plan has been formulated, covering key venues, accommodation facilities, and transit routes. Special deployments of Jammu and Kashmir Police, CRPF, and other security agencies have been made to ensure a safe and peaceful environment for participants, officials, and spectators.

To facilitate smooth movement, strict access control measures, anti-sabotage checks, and CCTV surveillance have been put in place. Security teams will also conduct regular area domination and patrolling to prevent any untoward incidents.

Baramulla Police urges all attendees to cooperate with security personnel, adhere to guidelines, and report any suspicious activity to help ensure a successful and incident-free event.“`

WAVES: The Broad Contours

Kashmir Despatch
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WAVES: The Broad Contours

Vinod Bhat

WAVES is a premier global event that brings together the entire Media and Entertainment (M&E) sector. It aims to connect India’s M&E industry with the global market and the global M&E industry with the Indian market, fostering growth, collaboration, and innovation. WAVES aspires to become a global convergence summit for the media and entertainment industry.

Key Objectives

  • Drive Industry Growth: Catalyze the growth of the Global M&E sector.
  • Nurture Innovation: Encourage the adoption of cutting-edge technologies like AI, VR/AR, and immersive experiences within the M&E sector.
  • Empower Young Talent: Nurture young talent through initiatives like the “Create in India Challenge,” providing them with opportunities to showcase their skills on a global stage.
  • Promote Cultural Exchange: Facilitate the exchange of ideas, stories, and best practices between Indian and global M&E professionals.

Major Components of WAVES

  • Industry Leaders’ Round Table: Roundtable discussions featuring global top CEOs and industry leaders.
  • Global Media Dialogue: High-level ministerial dialogues with key global policymakers to address critical industry trends and challenges, culminating in the ‘WAVES Declaration 2025’.
  • Thought Leaders Track: Engagements with global and Indian industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators, including plenary sessions covering the entire M&E industry by global experts, followed by conferences with pillar-specific discussions and breakout sessions for in-depth, industry-specific deliberations.
  • Bharat Pavilion: The Bharat Pavilion at WAVES 2025 will offer a captivating journey through storytelling heritage. Showcasing the evolution of print, audio, and visual narratives, it will celebrate the achievements of past and present creators while inspiring the next generation of storytellers to shape the future of the M&E landscape.
  • Exhibition: A showcase of cutting-edge technologies and innovative solutions across the M&E landscape through large pavilions hosted by leading global and Indian companies.
  • WAVES Bazaar: A dedicated marketplace for M&E business partnerships and content acquisition. This includes an e-bazaar, which will serve as the first-ever year-round global content marketplace for the entire M&E sector.
  • WaveXcelerator: The WaveXcelerator will be a dynamic platform connecting promising M&E startups with investors and mentors. Through live pitching sessions, startups will have the opportunity to showcase their innovative ideas and secure funding.
  • CreatoSphere: Industry-led immersive and interactive zones, a gaming arena, masterclasses and workshops, and the Grand Finale of the Create in India Challenge, culminating in the WAVES CIC Awards.
  • WAVES Cultural: Comprises WAVES Live Concerts, WAVES Classicals, National & International Fusion, along with a colocation of cultural events and live events.

Purpose of WAVES

  • To promote collaboration, innovation, and discussion in the media and entertainment industry.
  • To highlight India’s advancements in the industry.
  • To position India as a global leader in the industry.
  • To encourage investments in the industry.
  • To build a skilled workforce for the industry.

What Will WAVES Focus On?

  • Content creation
  • Financing
  • Gaming
  • Animation
  • Music
  • Intellectual property (IP) creation
  • Technology integration
  • Creative industry growth

How Will WAVES Help India?

  • WAVES will help India attract investments.
  • WAVES will help India position itself as a global leader in entertainment.
  • WAVES will help India strengthen its contribution to the global creative economy.
  • WAVES will help India develop a skilled workforce for the future.

Conclusion

WAVES 2025 will be a catalyst for a global Media and Entertainment (M&E) ecosystem that fosters collaboration, innovation, and talent development. By bringing together diverse stakeholders from around the world, we can unlock the collective potential of the global M&E industry, drive economic growth, and create new opportunities for creative expression and employment. For more information, please visit WAVES India.

Amarnath Yatra to begin on July 3

Kashmir Despatch
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Amarnath Yatra to begin on July 3

Srinagar, Mar 05 : The annual Amarnath Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir is set to begin from July 3 this year, officials said on Wednesday.

An official told news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that this year the yatra will be of 38 days instead of 40 days.

He said that the yatra will conclude on August 9. The decision was taken during a meeting today afternoon—(KNO)

US-India Relations: The Legacy of Modi-Trump Diplomacy & Its Future

Kashmir Despatch
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US-India Relations: The Legacy of Modi-Trump Diplomacy & Its Future

Syed Jashanzeeb

The relationship between the United States and India has undergone a significant transformation over the decades, evolving from a period of cautious engagement to a deep strategic partnership. One of the defining moments in this journey was the close rapport between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former U.S. President Donald Trump, which played a crucial role in strengthening bilateral ties in multiple domains. When Narendra Modi first took office as India’s Prime Minister in 2014, U.S.-India relations were already on an upward trajectory. However, it was during Trump’s presidency from 2017 to 2021 that the relationship reached new heights, particularly in defense cooperation, trade, and diplomatic collaboration. The two leaders, both known for their strong leadership styles, found common ground on several issues, which helped to cement the foundation for a robust bilateral partnership.

One of the most remarkable moments in U.S.-India relations under Modi and Trump was the “Howdy, Modi!” event held in Houston, Texas, in September 2019. It was an unprecedented gathering where over 50,000 Indian-Americans attended to celebrate the friendship between the two nations. Modi, in his address, spoke about the deepening ties between India and the U.S., emphasizing shared democratic values and economic opportunities. Trump’s presence at the event was a significant diplomatic gesture, signaling the growing importance of India in U.S. foreign policy. In response, India hosted the “Namaste Trump” event in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, in February 2020. The grand welcome was attended by thousands of people, and Trump, in his speech, praised India’s rise as a global power. This visit further strengthened defense ties, as India agreed to purchase military equipment worth $3 billion from the United States, including MH-60 Romeo and Apache helicopters. This marked another milestone in India’s defense modernization efforts, highlighting its increasing reliance on American defense technology.

During their time in office, Modi and Trump worked closely on trade negotiations, though not without challenges. Trump was vocal about the U.S. trade deficit with India and sought greater market access for American goods. He revoked India’s preferential trade status under the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) in 2019, arguing that India was not providing fair market access. Despite this setback, bilateral trade between the two nations continued to grow, with both sides recognizing the importance of economic collaboration.

The defense relationship also saw significant progress. In 2018, the U.S. granted India the status of a “Major Defense Partner,” allowing for greater technology-sharing and defense cooperation. Under the Modi-Trump era, key agreements such as the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) were signed, facilitating secure communication between the armed forces of both countries. The U.S. also supported India in counterterrorism efforts, particularly after the Pulwama attack in 2019, when Trump backed India’s stance against Pakistan-based terrorist groups. One of the major geopolitical shifts during this period was the growing focus on the Indo-Pacific region. Both leaders were keen on strengthening security ties to counter China’s expanding influence. This resulted in India’s increased participation in the Quad alliance alongside the U.S., Japan, and Australia. The Quad gained renewed momentum, with greater emphasis on maritime security and strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific.

The COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 added another dimension to U.S.-India relations. Both Modi and Trump worked together to ensure medical cooperation, with India supplying hydroxychloroquine to the U.S. when it was considered a potential treatment for the virus. The pandemic also highlighted the importance of strengthening global supply chains, leading to discussions on reducing dependency on China and enhancing U.S.-India trade ties in pharmaceuticals and technology.

As Trump’s presidency came to an end in 2021, the foundation laid during his tenure continued to influence U.S.-India relations. President Joe Biden’s administration built upon many of the policies established under Trump, ensuring continuity in defense cooperation, trade discussions, and strategic alliances. The Modi-Trump era was marked by a unique personal camaraderie that played a significant role in elevating the bilateral relationship to new heights. Looking ahead, the U.S.-India partnership remains strong, with both nations recognizing each other as critical allies in the evolving global order. The legacy of Modi-Trump relations continues to shape diplomatic engagements, reinforcing the idea that a robust U.S.-India partnership is essential for regional and global stability.

In February 2025, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House to discuss key issues, primarily focusing on trade and defense. Despite Trump’s threats to impose tariffs, both leaders signaled openness to negotiations, aiming to resolve trade concerns and potentially complete a deal later in the year. In defense, Trump announced plans to increase military sales to India.

Writers can be reached at [email protected].

PDP Legislator Waheed ur Parra Demands Restoration of July 13, December 5 Holidays

Kashmir Despatch
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PDP Legislator Waheed ur Parra Demands Restoration of July 13, December 5 Holidays

Srinagar, Mar 05 : Peoples’ Democratic Party legislator, from Pulwama, Waheed ur Rehman Parra on Wednesday moved a proposal in Jammu and Kashmir legislative assembly to seek restoration of holidays on July 13 and December 5.

Highlighting the deep cultural and historical value of July 13 and December 5 holidays, Parra sought from the incumbent government to restore both the holidays.

Parra, as per news agency Kashmir Bulletin, also took the occasion to seek transfer of Kashmiri youth lodged in jails outside back to Valley, citing different challenges faced by families of detainees.

Parra stressed the vitality of return of the youths detained outside, while drawing from his own experience of facing charges under UAPA.

While Parra garnered support from fellow legislator and JKPC Chief Sajad Lone, the proposal vis-a-vis holidays on July 13 and December 5, saw objection from LoP and BJP leader Sunil Sharma.

Sharma went on to call July 13 martyrs as ‘traitors’, which was retorted to by treasury benches with the charge led by Sajad Lone and Congress leader Nizamuddin Bhat, forcing the Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather to expunge the remarks of Sunil Sharma.

The BJP soon after staged a walkout from the House. (KB)

Army jawan dies after sustaining firearm injuries in Baramulla

Kashmir Despatch
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Army jawan dies after sustaining firearm injuries in Baramulla

Srinagar — An army jawan died of firearm injuries sustained from his service rifle at a forward location in Kamalkote sector of Jammu and Kashmir’s Baramulla district, officials said on Wednesday.

Naik B T Rao (25), hailing from Andhra Pradesh, died on Tuesday.

The bullet was fired from the service rifle of the deceased jawan, they said adding the exact circumstances of his death were being ascertained.

The officials said prima facie it appeared to be a case of death by suicide.

However, Srinagar-based defence spokesman did not comment on the incident. — (PTI)

No proposal for construction of maternity hospital at Sirnoo, Pulwama: H&ME Minister in Assembly

Kashmir Despatch
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No proposal for construction of maternity hospital at Sirnoo, Pulwama: H&ME Minister in Assembly

Pulwama, Mar 05 : Health and Medical Education (H&ME) Minister, Sakina Itoo on Wednesday informed that there was no proposal before the government for the construction of a 100-bed maternity hospital in Sirnoo, Pulwama.

While replying to questions of MLA Pulwama Waheed Ur Rehman Para, Itoo said that there is no such proposal before the government and existing health facilities are being strengthened.

“At present, there is no such proposal for construction of 100 Bedded Maternity Hospital at Sirnoo Pulwama as the maternal healthcare facilities to the people of District Pulwama including Sirnoo area are available at District Hospital, Pulwama.” Sakina said.

“As of now, J&K is working on consolidation of existing health facilities as around 4000 health institutes at various levels (Primary, Secondary and Tertiary) exists. J&K is among the top runners amongst large States/UTs (with population more than 1 crore) in health institution density in the country. The calculations worked as per the Report published in 2023 by MoHFW, GoI indicates that J&K has health institution on every 3500 souls against an average 6000 souls at national level,” she said.

“No future creations/upgradations are planned as of now. The upgradation of health institutions mainly depend upon multiple parameters viz; population, infrastructure, distance from nearby Health institutions, work load and fulfillment of conditionality of IPHS norms-2022 and circular instructions of the Government issued from time to time (latest vide 10-F of 2025 dated: 11/01/2025 by FD that no new posts shall be created, refer point 7(1) of Govt,” Sakina added.

“However, to improve the Health services further, among other things, the department has conceptualized to strengthen the existing health facilities through rationalization of Manpower and Resource Sharing and developing a robust e-sanjeevani/tele-medicine facilities through a well designed hub & spoke model under digital initiatives,” she said—(KNO)

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