The Typewriter Live, 144-B, Bye pass Kunjwani Road, Opportunity Vishal Mega Mart, Jammu (2026)

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144-B, Bye Pass Kunjwani Road, Opportunity Vishal Mega Mart

01/01/2026

Seven Inspectors transferred to Jammu Zone

01/01/2026

Gold Is Not the Problem, the System Is: Varinderjeet Singh

THE TYPEWRITER || JAMMU, JANUARY 1
Chairman of the National Sikh Front (NSF), S. Varinderjeet Singh, on Thursday raised concerns over what he described as non-transparent practices in the gold jewellery trade, stating that consumers are facing an increasing financial burden not because of gold prices alone but due to the way jewellery pricing is structured.

Addressing a press conference at the Press Club Jammu, Singh said gold in India holds cultural, social and financial significance, especially in the context of marriages, family traditions and long-term financial security. He noted that for many households, particularly women, gold is not a luxury item but an essential asset. However, he expressed concern that this trust is being strained by pricing mechanisms that are difficult for ordinary buyers to understand.

Singh explained that while fluctuations in international gold prices are often cited as the main reason for expensive jewellery, a substantial portion of the cost comes from making charges that lack clear regulation. He pointed out that these charges are frequently calculated as a percentage of the gold price rather than being linked to actual labour, craftsmanship or production costs.

Referring to local markets such as Jammu, Singh said making charges often exceed 15 per cent and tend to rise automatically with gold prices, even though the effort, time and technology involved in manufacturing jewellery do not change proportionately. He said this approach places an additional burden on consumers and raises questions about pricing fairness.

He also highlighted what he termed a market imbalance, noting that despite gold prices reaching high levels in 2025, demand for gold jewellery has declined. According to him, consumers are purchasing smaller quantities, yet the overall cost per purchase remains high due to additional charges. He observed that in a competitive market, reduced demand would normally lead to price moderation, which does not appear to be happening in this case.

Singh rejected the argument that higher making charges benefit artisans, stating that most goldsmiths continue to work on fixed wages or salaries that are not linked to gold price movements. He said this indicates that the additional costs paid by consumers are not reflected in improved earnings or working conditions for craftsmen, many of whom continue to face long working hours and job insecurity.

He further referred to wastage charges, saying that despite advancements in jewellery manufacturing techniques such as precision casting and improved recycling, consumers are still charged wastage ranging from 5 to 12 per cent. He added that in many instances these charges are not clearly explained and are combined with making charges, reducing transparency for buyers.

Cautioning consumers, Singh also spoke about promotional schemes advertising zero making charges, describing them as potentially misleading. He said such offers may recover costs through higher gold rates, increased wastage, lower buy-back values or additional tax implications, which buyers may not immediately notice.

Raising broader regulatory concerns, Singh said a lack of transparency in pricing affects consumer rights and fair market practices. He urged authorities to review existing mechanisms governing the jewellery trade and ensure greater accountability.

Placing his suggestions before the government, Singh called for reasonable limits on making charges for standard jewellery, a shift away from percentage-based calculations, compulsory itemised billing, clearer linkage between making charges and artisan wages, assured minimum wages for goldsmiths with direct payments, and closer scrutiny of promotional claims.

Concluding his address, Singh said the NSF’s position was aimed at reform rather than opposition to the jewellery industry. He stated that while fair profit is necessary for any business, systems should ensure transparency and balance so that consumers are not disproportionately burdened. According to him, when labour costs remain stable, technology improves and demand weakens, yet consumer expenses continue to rise, it becomes evident that the challenge lies in the system rather than in gold itself.

01/01/2026

Government’s Fresh Fencing Tender Revives Concerns Over Raika Forest’s Future in Jammu

THE TYPEWRITER || JAMMU, JANUARY 1
Jammu’s ecological future has once again come under focus following the government’s decision to re-publish a fencing tender for Raika Forest in December 2025. The move has revived a project that had earlier witnessed strong public opposition and was effectively put on hold after sustained protests. The renewed tender follows a Public Interest Litigation filed in November 2025, which referred to delays in the construction of the Jammu High Court building and treated the forest area as a pending project.

Environmental groups and citizen collectives have expressed concern, stating that the re-publication does not represent a new development initiative but a revival of a proposal that had previously faced widespread resistance. In August and September 2024, the earlier fencing tender led to nearly a month of peaceful protests across Jammu. The continuous public response resulted in a halt to construction-related activity until 2025, highlighting the role of civic participation in decisions affecting the region.

Opposition to the Raika Forest–High Court project dates back to February 14, 2021, when climate-conscious citizens and organisations began raising objections through awareness campaigns, public discussions and peaceful demonstrations. The project was originally sanctioned in 2019 and processed in 2020, even though Raika Forest forms part of a conservation reserve and an eco-sensitive zone, a factor that continues to raise legal and environmental concerns among activists.

Environmental experts caution that Jammu may face long-term consequences if large green spaces around the city continue to shrink. They draw comparisons with other urban regions where the loss of natural buffers has contributed to deteriorating air quality and rising temperatures. In recent years, Jammu has experienced hotter summers and increasing pollution levels, while Raika Forest continues to serve as a major green cover and carbon sink close to the city.

According to environmental groups, the proposed project would impact around 38,006 trees across approximately 813 kanals of forest land. Raika Forest supports a wide variety of plant species and provides habitat for diverse wildlife, including birds, mammals and reptiles. Experts warn that large-scale forest clearance could lead to increased pollution, soil erosion, higher flood risks, loss of biodiversity and greater instances of human–animal interaction. There are also concerns that once construction begins, further urban expansion in the area may follow.

Beyond its ecological importance, Raika Forest is closely linked to Jammu’s cultural and natural heritage. The Sidra–Raika region is regarded by many residents as one of the last green stretches reflecting the city’s Himalayan landscape. Activists argue that its loss would not only affect the environment but also diminish a shared natural legacy for future generations.

The project has also raised social concerns, particularly regarding the impact on Gujjar families residing in the area. Several households face the possibility of displacement, with their land, livelihoods and community spaces at risk. These families are reported to have long-standing land records and cultural ties to the region, which, according to activists, must be taken into account while planning any development.

Commenting on the issue, representatives of various environmental organisations stated that Raika Forest should be viewed as a living ecosystem rather than vacant land. They stressed that development decisions need to balance infrastructure needs with environmental protection and social equity.

Environmental groups and citizen collectives have urged the authorities to reassess the project and explore development approaches that preserve natural ecosystems while meeting institutional requirements. They maintain that safeguarding Raika Forest is essential for protecting Jammu’s climate resilience, biodiversity and cultural heritage.

31/12/2025

Sandhya Gupta, President of Women Club Meri Pehchan, met Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and discussed the vision and objectives of the upcoming Maharaja Hari Singh Dogra Samman Award 2026. CEN News Bureau Chief Sunny was also present during the meeting.

31/12/2025

Pargwal Tehsil Again in Focus Over Reports of Illegal Sand Mining

THE TYPEWRITER || PARGWAL, DECEMBER 31
Pargwal Tehsil has once again drawn attention following reports of illegal sand mining activities in the area. According to local sources, unauthorised extraction of sand was allegedly carried out late on Monday night and again on Tuesday night in the Sajwal area of Pargwal, with those involved reportedly taking advantage of dense fog conditions.

Sources said the activity took place around 11 pm, when poor visibility due to heavy fog made monitoring difficult. It was reported that sand was extracted using heavy machinery and subsequently transported towards the Rajouri–Poonch side. Owing to the weather conditions, local teams present in the area were unable to document the activity.

Residents have expressed concern over the continued movement of sand-laden vehicles during night hours. They have pointed out that if such activities remain unchecked, they could pose a serious threat to the Chenab river ecosystem in the Pargwal region.

Environmental observers have warned that repeated and unregulated extraction of sand weakens the riverbed, increasing the risk of erosion. They cautioned that during the upcoming monsoon season, this could potentially lead to flooding and other environmental challenges for nearby settlements.

Local residents have urged the authorities concerned to enhance monitoring, especially during night hours, and to take effective measures to prevent unauthorised mining in order to protect the river and ensure long-term environmental safety in the region.

31/12/2025

Jammu Police Recover and Return 200 Lost Smartphones to Owners Under Operation Re-CONNECT

THE TYPEWRITER || JAMMU, DECEMBER 31

In a notable public service initiative, Jammu and Kashmir Police in District Jammu successfully recovered and returned 200 lost and stolen smartphones, collectively valued at around Rs 50 lakh, to their rightful owners. The recoveries were made under Operation Re-CONNECT, an initiative launched by Jammu Police to trace and retrieve missing mobile devices.

The recovery drive, carried out over the past month, was undertaken by specialised technical teams of Jammu Police from the South Zone, Headquarters Zone and Cyber Police Station Jammu. Through sustained technical tracking and coordination, the teams traced and recovered the smartphones from different parts of Jammu and Kashmir as well as from outside states. All the devices had been reported missing at various police stations across District Jammu.

The recovered smartphones were handed over to their owners during a simple ceremony held at the District Police Lines, Jammu. The function was presided over by Senior Superintendent of Police Jammu, Joginder Singh, JKPS. Senior officers, including the Superintendent of Police Headquarters Jammu, SP Operations Jammu, SP Rural Jammu, SP South Jammu, DySP DAR Jammu and other district police officers, were also present on the occasion.

The event witnessed emotional moments as citizens were reunited with their lost devices, many of which contained valuable personal data, memories and essential communication records. The recipients expressed gratitude to Jammu and Kashmir Police for their sustained efforts and citizen-centric approach.

Police officials said that each smartphone was returned only after proper verification of ownership, including scrutiny of identity documents and mobile purchase records, to ensure lawful handover. Many of the recovered devices had been missing for extended periods, making their recovery particularly meaningful for the owners.

On the occasion, SP Headquarters Jammu also interacted with the public and shared important guidance on securing personal communication devices. He advised citizens to use strong passwords, keep software updated, enable remote tracking features and adopt two-factor authentication to safeguard personal data and reduce the risk of future losses.

District Police Jammu reiterated its commitment to leveraging technology-driven policing for public welfare and encouraged citizens to promptly report loss of mobile phones and cooperate with police for effective recovery.

30/12/2025

Cyber Advisory For Public

30/12/2025

DIG Udhampur–Reasi Range Reviews Security Arrangements at Katra Ahead of New Year

THE TYPEWRITER || REASI, DECEMBER 30

Deputy Inspector General of Police, Udhampur–Reasi Range, Sarah Rizvi, IPS, on Monday visited Katra to review security and traffic management arrangements in view of the anticipated rush of pilgrims ahead of New Year celebrations.

The DIG was accompanied by SSP Reasi Paramvir Singh, JKPS, Additional SP Katra Vipan Chandran, JKPS, SDPO Katra Dr Bhishm Dubey, JKPS, Deputy Superintendent of Police Traffic and the Station House Officer of Police Station Katra, Insp Ranjeet Rao. Senior officers briefed her about the deployment plan and measures put in place to ensure the safety and smooth movement of pilgrims.

During the visit, the DIG reviewed various checking and monitoring points in and around Katra and interacted with police personnel deployed on the ground. She stressed the importance of strict checking, heightened alertness and a visitor-friendly approach to facilitate safe and orderly movement during the peak period.

She also visited the Integrated Command and Control Centre in Katra, where she reviewed the functioning of the surveillance and monitoring system. Officials informed her that a network of 564 CCTV cameras is providing live coverage of Katra town, the track leading to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine and other sensitive locations. Directions were issued for optimal use of the facility for real-time monitoring, quick response and effective crowd and traffic management.

The DIG further reviewed the directions issued during an earlier meeting chaired by the Director General of Police at the Spiritual Growth Centre in Katra, with special focus on strengthening security measures for the safety of pilgrims.

As part of her on-ground assessment, she conducted a foot patrol at key locations including the bus stand, ticket counters and major junctions to assess traffic flow and crowd movement. She interacted with pilgrims arriving from different parts of the country and sought feedback on the arrangements in place.

During the visit, the DIG also interacted with Central Reserve Police Force personnel deployed at various points and appreciated their efforts in maintaining security and assisting pilgrims.

The review highlighted the preparedness of the police and security agencies to ensure effective security, smooth traffic regulation and efficient crowd management during the New Year period.

30/12/2025

Something big is coming tomorrow 7:30— the conspiracy will be expos*ed

30/12/2025

High Court Closes 46-Year-Old Culp●able Ho●micide Case, Releases Elderly Woman
THE TYPEWRITER | SRINAGAR, DECEMBER 30
The High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has brought to a close a crim●inal case that remained pending for nearly 46 years, granting relief to a woman now aged 70 who had been con●victed in connection with a cu●lpable ho●micide case.

The case pertained to Shameema Begum, a resident of Uri in Baramulla district, who was arre●sted in 1979 following an altercation within her family that resulted in serious in●juries to her husband’s grandmother. The inju●red woman passed away four days later, after which crim●inal proceedings were initiated against Begum.

Following a prolonged trial that continued for about three decades, the trial court in 2009 co●nvicted her under Section 304-II of the Indian Penal Code, relating to cul●pable ho●micide not amounting to m●urder, and sentenced her to five years of rigo●rous impriso●nment. The same year, Begum challenged the sent●ence before the High Court, seeking relief in the quantum of puni●shment.

While disposing of the appeal, Justice Sanjay Parihar took note of the extraordinary delay in the conclusion of the case and referred to several judgments of the Supreme Court on sentencing principles. The court observed that at the time of admission of the appe●al, the appellant had not challenged her conviction and had sought consideration for release on probation. Although the State had indicated its intention to file an appeal, the same was never pursued.

The court observed that the incident had occurred in a sudden moment without prior planning. Taking into account the prolonged duration of the proceedings, the period of incarceration already undergone and the present age and health condition of the appellant, the court held that continuing the substantive sentence would serve no meaningful purpose.

Justice Parihar noted that since no minimum s●entence is prescribed under the relevant provision of law, the ends of justice would be met by treating the sentence as already undergone, subject to payment of a fine of Rs 5,000. In default of payment, the court ordered a simple imprisonment of three months.

The judgment also highlighted concerns over systemic delays in the disposal of cri●minal cases. The court emphasised that sente●ncing should balance deterrence, accountability and rehabilitation, and that prolonged pendency of cases often results in accused persons remaining entangled in the cri●minal justice system for decades.

Applying these principles, the court noted that the incident took place in July 1979, the conviction was recorded in July 2009 and the appeal remained pending for another 16 years. While such delays cannot automatically result in relief for a convict, the court said the realities of prolonged proceedings cannot be ignored.

The court concluded that, in the present circumstances, the focus of sent●encing should be on reform and rehabilitation, allowing the offender an opportunity to reflect upon and move beyond the events of the past.

30/12/2025

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India has appointed Sarvesh Rai, an Indian Forest Service officer of the AGMUT cadre (1991 batch), as the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Head of Forest Force for the Jammu and Kashmir segment of the AGMUT cadre.
He is presently posted as PCCF in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

30/12/2025

Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University Rajouri (J&K) Announced 10-Days Winter Vocations.

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