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Kashmir Dinbhar, Srinagar (2025)

11/08/2025

*Day 11: Kulgam enounter continues, searches intensified in dense Akhal forests*

*‘Brief lull in firing reported since morning’*

KNO Correspondent

Kulgam, Aug 11 (KNO): The prolonged anti-terror operation in the Akhal forest area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district entered its 11th day on Monday, with a brief lull in firing reported since morning.

Security forces remain on high alert as the search operation continues in the thickly forested and mountainous terrain.

Officials told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that a multi-layer security cordon has been in place to prevent the escape of any terrorists believed to be holed up in the area.

The dense vegetation and steep slopes have posed huge challenges. Specialised search teams, including personnel from the Army, CRPF and J&K Police, are combing suspected hideouts.

Sources told KNO that forces have been conducting systematic searches in multiple phases, moving sector by sector to clear the vast forest zone and to plug possible escape routes, particularly towards adjoining villages and higher ridges.

“Given the complexity of the terrain and the possibility of terrorists shifting positions during the night, forces are advancing cautiously to avoid casualties and ensure no area is left unchecked,” they said.

The operation, which was launched on August 1 following specific intelligence inputs, has witnessed multiple intermittent exchanges of fire.

So far, at least one terrorist has been killed, while two soldiers have lost their lives in the line of duty. More than a dozen security personnel have sustained injuries during the intense gunfights.

Officials said the prolonged nature of the encounter indicates the terrorists are well-entrenched, using natural caves, thick foliage and shifting positions to evade the cordon—(KNO)

11/08/2025

Security tightened across J&K ahead of Independence Day

Checking, area domination exercises, tech surveillance in place to ensure peaceful celebrations: Official; IGP Kashmir says all arrangements finalised

Srinagar, Aug 11 (KNO): Security has been heightened across Jammu & Kashmir ahead of the Independence Day celebrations on August 15, with multi-tiered measures, sanitisation and area domination exercises being carried out by security personnel, officials said here on Monday.

This year’s Independence Day will be the first following the formation of an elected government after the abrogation of J&K’s special status in 2019.

A senior security official told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), that security has been increased in 20 districts, particularly in the border areas. "Sensitive areas in Kashmir have seen enhanced security, including road blockades, vehicle checks, security cordons, and search operations," he said.

The official said there is an extensive deployment of police and paramilitary forces along the International Border (IB) and Line of Control (LoC). "Senior officers have reviewed security arrangements in sensitive border areas to ensure effective coordination between various agencies," he added.

Meanwhile, the official said that BSF personnel opened fire on a Pakistani national attempting to cross into Indian territory along the International Border (IB) in Kathua district, injuring him.

"On the evening of 11 Aug 2025, BSF troops observed suspicious movement wherein a Pak National was observed crossing the IB and approaching aggressively towards the border fence in district Kathua, Jammu. He was warned by alert troops but paid no heed. BSF troops, sensing a threat, fired at his legs. Later on, he was taken into BSF custody. Protest being lodged with counterpart," a Jammu-based BSF spokesperson said.

He added that to further bolster security, advanced surveillance technologies, including drones and high-resolution CCTV cameras, have been deployed to monitor event venues and surrounding areas.

Checkpoints have been set up in Srinagar and other district headquarters, particularly at key entry points, the official said, adding that random vehicle checks and frisking operations are being conducted to prevent the movement of subversive elements.

Meanwhile, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, V K Birdi said all necessary security and logistical arrangements have been put in place for the upcoming Independence Day celebrations across the valley.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of a rehearsal parade at Pratap Park, Srinagar, the IGP said rehearsal drills are being carried out as part of the preparations.

He said multiple layers of security will be in place on August 15, with special arrangements at sensitive locations to ensure the event passes off peacefully.

"Every effort is being made to ensure smooth and incident-free celebrations," the IGP added—(KNO)

11/08/2025

2 J&K Police officers killed, another injured in Srinagar accident

Srinagar, Aug 11 (KNO): Two Jammu and Kashmir Police Sub-Inspectors were killed, while another was injured in a road accident in Nowgam area of Srinagar during the intervening night of August 10-11, officials told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) on Monday.

They said a speeding KIA vehicle bearing No. JK21H-1919 hit a road divider at Tengen Bypass, near Nowgam and went out of control and met with the accident.

They said three Sub-Inspectors of J&K Police sustained injuries in the accident. “The injured were shifted to a hospital, where doctors declared two of them as brought dead, while the third is undergoing treatment,” the officials said.

The deceased were identified as Sachin Verma of 23 Bn IRP, presently posted at Pantha Chowk, and Shubam Sait of 21 Bn IRP posted at Awantipora. The injured has been identified as Mastan Singh of 23 Bn IRP.

Meanwhile, police have taken cognisance of the incident—(KNO)

09/08/2025

Adulterated, rotten meat pose grave health risks in Kashmir, experts warn

Says unsafe food can lead to cancer, call for greater awareness on food hygiene

Srinagar, Aug 09 (KNO): In the wake of large quantities of adulterated and rotten meat being seized from different parts of Kashmir in recent days, health experts have issued strong warnings about the serious risks such food poses to public health.

Speaking to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), they said improper handling, unhygienic storage, and the use of harmful chemicals to mask spoilage could be silently fueling a health crisis in the valley.

Dr Mohammad Salim Khan, Head of the Department of Community Medicine at GMC Srinagar, told KNO that improper handling of meat and poultry can have devastating consequences.

“Unsanitary practices during slaughtering, dressing, packaging, transportation, storage, and distribution can contaminate meat with harmful bacteria, leading to foodborne illnesses such as food poisoning, diarrhoea, dysentery, and typhoid fever,” he said.

He added, “Meat, especially poultry, spoils quickly when exposed to environmental conditions without proper handling and storage. Unfortunately, in many cases, meat is transported in unhygienic thermocol boxes or kept in the open, rather than in refrigerated vehicles and deep freezers.”

Dr Khan stressed that the safe disposal of spoiled meat is equally important. “Improperly discarded meat can contaminate water bodies and the environment. It must be destroyed scientifically, either through incineration or deep burial with disinfectants,” he said.

Adding to the alarm, Dr Owvass H. Dar, a consultant radiologist at GMC Anantnag, said the link between unsafe food and chronic diseases, including cancer, cannot be ignored.

“The incidence of cancer in Kashmir has reached alarming levels—there is hardly a village, locality, or mohalla left untouched. In the Radiology Department, we diagnose at least one or two new cancer patients every day on ultrasound or CT scans,” he said.

While lifestyle changes and environmental factors play a role, the consumption of rotten meat treated with carcinogenic chemicals to disguise spoilage is a preventable risk, Dr Owais said. "This is not just about food hygiene—it could be silently contributing to the cancer epidemic in our valley," he said.

Dr Dar called for urgent, large-scale research into the causes of the cancer surge in Kashmir, backed by strong logistics and government support.

“Each of us can protect our families by avoiding unsafe, pre-processed foods and choosing fresh, hygienic options. Food safety is not simply about avoiding a bad meal—it’s about saving lives and preventing a public health disaster,” he added.

Authorities have stepped up inspections, seizing thousands of kilograms of unsafe meat and other food items. However, experts say enforcement must be coupled with public awareness campaigns to ensure that the valley’s residents understand the dangers of consuming adulterated and unhygienic food—(KNO)

09/08/2025

‘Freight operations commence in Kashmir’

First logistics goods train from Punjab arrives at Anantnag station

PM Modi terms it 'great day'; to virtually flag off Vande Bharat Express from Amritsar to Katra today

Will boost economy, accessibility, say valley’s fruit growers

Anantnag, Aug 09 (KNO): To strengthen freight operations through railway connectivity in south Kashmir, the first-ever logistics goods train from Rupnagar, Punjab, arrived at Anantnag railway station on Saturday, carrying a consignment of cement, officials said.

An official informed the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that Northern Railway, under its Jammu Division, has officially commenced freight operations at the station, allowing both inward and outward movement of goods.

He said the inaugural freight train was loaded with 21 BCN wagons of cement.

"The journey, spanning approximately 600 kilometres, ended at the newly commissioned Anantnag Goods Shed on Saturday. The cement transported on this train will be used for crucial projects, including the construction of roads, bridges, public infrastructure, and residential housing in the Kashmir Valley," the official said.

This development is part of the Baramulla–Srinagar–Banihal railway corridor, which falls under the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.

Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw posted a video of the freight train on X, saying that the launch of freight operations to the Valley will significantly reduce transportation costs, providing economic relief to citizens and businesses in the region.

“First freight train to the Kashmir Valley: – Today (9.8.2025), the first freight train reached the newly commissioned Anantnag Goods Shed in the Kashmir Valley from Punjab, marking a significant milestone in connecting the Kashmir region to the national freight network. – Transportation by the railway network will reduce the cost for our citizens living in the Kashmir Valley," Vaishnaw posted on X.

Ghulam Ahmad, an apple grower from Shopian, told KNO that the freight service will be a “game changer” for fruit growers. “Every year, we struggle to send our apples outside during peak season, especially when roads are blocked. With rail cargo now available in Anantnag, we can deliver fresh produce faster and at lower cost,” he said.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually flag off the Vande Bharat Express train service between Amritsar and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra on August 10.

‘Great day for commerce and connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir! It will enhance both progress and prosperity,” the Prime Minister posted on X.

Senior Divisional Commercial Manager, Jammu Division, Uchit Singhal, said this will be the fifth Vande Bharat train connected to Jammu and Kashmir.

He said currently, two Vande Bharat trains are already running to Delhi, and two more were flagged off by the Prime Minister himself in June, connecting Srinagar to Katra.

This new train will further connect Jammu and Kashmir with other states, running from Amritsar to Katra, he said—(KNO)

09/08/2025

Akhal Encounter Day 09: Two Armymen Succumbs, 2 Others Injured As Exchange of Fire Continued Throughout Night

Army Pays Tribute To The Deceased Soldiers

Srinagar, August 9(GNS): Two army soldiers succumbed and two others injured as the exchange of fire between terrorists and security forces continued throughout last night, as the gunfight entered its ninth day in the Akhal forest area of South Kashmir's Kulgam district.

Official sources told GNS that four army soldiers were injured in an intense exchange of fire between terrorists and security forces late last night. However, two among the four injured armymen succumbed. The deceased soldiers have been identified as constable Harminder Singh and Lance Naik Preetpal Singh both from 19 RR.

Meanwhile, Taking on to micro-blogging platform X, the army's Chinar Corps while paying tribute to the deceased soldiers wrote, "Chinar Corps honours the supreme sacrifice of the Bravehearts, L/Nk Pritpal Singh and Sep Harminder Singh, in line of duty for the Nation. Their courage and dedication will forever inspire us.

Indian Army expresses deepest condolences and stand in solidarity with the bereaved families,".

Notably, this operation is the longest ongoing operation in Valley, entering its ninth day. On the first night of the gunfight, one terrorist was killed and four army soldiers were injured.

Offcials said that since this is a vast, dense forest area, the operation may be prolonged.(GNS)

08/08/2025

J&K govt refuses to disclose cabinet panel report on reservation

Says report under examination, cites provisions under RTI Act

Srinagar Aug 08 (KNO): The Jammu and Kashmir Government has refused to disclose the cabinet sub-committee report on the rationalisation of existing reservation policy in the Union Territory, citing provisions under the Right to Information (RTI) Act.

In its reply to an RTI application filed by Taffazul Bilal, per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) the Department of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs has disclosed that the information sought is under examination and cannot be disclosed.

It has invoked Section 8(1)(i) of RTI Act to prohibit disclosure of the information. The provision exempts disclosure of cabinet papers, including records of deliberations by the Council of Ministers, secretaries, and other officials.

It further reasoned that the report qualifies as third-party information under section 11 of the RTI Act, the provision which makes it mandatory for the Public Information Officer (PIO) to consult that third party before disclosure. The third party can object, and their views must be considered before a final decision is made.

The PIO of Law department has also stated that disclosure of such information may undermine public interest.

“It is also informed that the disclosure of such preliminary or unfinished information may lead to confusion, misinterpretation and misinformation, thereby undermining larger public information,” the PIO said.

The department has also refused to disclose information about whether legal vetting and if pending, tentative timeline for its completion.

The PIO has again invoked Section 8(1)(i) of the RTI Act to decline information about legal vetting of the panel report.

In December last year, the J&K government formed a three-member cabinet sub- committee headed by Minister Sakina Ittoo for rationalisation of existing reservation policy.

The CSC finalised its report on June 10 this year. Later, the cabinet referred the report to the Law department for legal vetting—(KNO)

08/08/2025

CRACKDOWN AGAINST ROTTEN MEAT, CHICKENS

Samples will be taken from 5-star hotels to road side eateries, culprits won’t be spared: Satish Sharma

Says foul smelling rice seized from FCI warehouse in Sumbal, it has no reached PDS, inquiry on

Srinagar, Aug 08 (KNO): Reassuring people that no one will be allowed to sell adulterated, rotten meat and dressed chickens in Jammu and Kashmir, Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Satish Sharma on Friday said that a massive crackdown has been launched to identify and nail the culprits running this racket in the region.

Sharma, while talking to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said, “Samples will be taken from every food outlet from five star hotels to a roadside eatery and the people involved in flooding markets with adulterated items won’t be spared.”

He said, “What we have seen in the past one or two days is that there are some people—whether they are suppliers or hoteliers, strict action will be taken against them. And whether they are manufacturers, they will face the consequences of their actions.”

Sharma said that a high-level team is being formed to devise a comprehensive strategy aimed at ensuring there is no compromise in tackling the (rotten meat) issue.

Sharma said, “Just yesterday, we had a meeting with the Health Minister and the Agriculture Minister; we took feedback from some people in the poultry sector and from the food department as well. Let me tell you, whoever is found to be involved, wherever they are, they will not be spared."

Pertinently, over the past week, Food Safety Department officials have raided various locations across Kashmir, recovering huge quantities of harmful and unfit-for-consumption meat.

Just two days ago in Srinagar, officials seized similar unfit chicken meat. Traders from whom the meat was recovered claimed that the spoilage was due to inadequate cold storage, not the quality of the product itself.

However, authorities have questioned how such meat could possibly remain safe without proper refrigeration, emphasizing the health risks associated with consuming improperly stored meat.

ROTTEN RICE SEIZED FROM FCI WAREHOUSE

Meanwhile, in a related development, a large quantity of foul-smelling and rotten rice was seized from a Food Corporation of India (FCI) warehouse in the Sumbal area of Bandipora district.

Reports indicate that the rice had been transported from Punjab to the Kashmir Valley.

Food and Supplies Minister Satish Sharma said that some items had reached Food Corporation of India (FCI) warehouses, but had not yet entered the Public Distribution System (PDS). “Secondly, a team checks at least three times, and if something is found to be spoiled, it is returned. Right now, it has been spoiled in transit, and there is an investigation into how this happened. But so far, it has not been distributed further, and strict action is being taken in this case as well, with full severity. Wherever anything is found. Whether it is coming from Punjab or elsewhere this is our staple diet, and we want quality.”—(KNO)

07/08/2025

Culprits involved in smuggling rotten meat into Kashmir won’t be spared, says Food and Supplies Minister

Blanket ban will be imposed on entry of illegal packed food items into Valley; high level meeting tomorrow

Srinagar, Aug 07 (KNO): Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Satish Sharma on Thursday said that culprits involved in smuggling rotten meat into Kashmir won’t be spared, and blanket ban would be imposed on the entry of illegal packed food items entering the valley.

Talking to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) Sharma said, “Health Minister Sakina Itoo and Agriculture Minister Javed Dar took separate meetings with stakeholders today. A high-level meeting will be held on Friday to devise a strategy to prevent the rotten meat from entering into Kashmir.”

Sharma said that law enforcing agencies, including J&K Police, will be involved, to act against the accused involved in this illegal trade. “We are going to act tough and no one will be spared. It’s a big Mafia and it will be dealt with an iron fist.”

Pertinently, officials on Thursday said that during the past few days the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) seized and destroyed over 35 quintals (3,500 kg) of decomposed and unlabelled meat across Kashmir.
The seized consignments, as per officials, were either being transported or stored without proper labelling or cold-chain logistics.

“The meat was in a decomposed condition, packed without any identification or temperature control. In many cases, we could not even open the packages due to the foul smell,” Smiti Sethi, Commissioner, FDA Kashmir told KNO.

“The crackdown has sparked panic among those involved in the trade. The illegal suppliers are now dumping meat consignments in open areas and even water bodies to evade detection, Sethi added.

“This is just the beginning. We are committed to ensuring that only safe and legal food reaches the public,” she said—(KNO)

07/08/2025

Kulgam: Longest encounter in decades enters 7th day

Kulgam, Aug 07 (KNO): The longest encounter in decades between security forces and terrorists hiding in the deep Akhal forests of South Kashmir's Kulgam district entered its seventh day on Thursday.

Officials told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that the intermittent firing continued throughout the night, resulting in injuries to three more army personnel.

"Half dozen security personnel have been injured so far in the encounter. The injured soldiers were shifted to a military hospital for treatment," they added.

“During the exchange of fire, three soldiers sustained injuries on Thursday,” an official said, adding that the search operation is ongoing with reinforcements deployed.

The encounter began last Friday after security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the Akhal forest area following specific intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists.

After the initial exchange of fire on Friday evening, the operation was paused for the night, but the cordon was tightened and additional reinforcements were sent in. One terrorist has also been killed in the ongoing operation.

"The operation entered its seventh day today and is ongoing. This is the longest encounter in decades in Kashmir," the officials said.

They added that drones, UAVs, and attack helicopters are being used to track down the terrorists in the difficult forest terrain.

“Security forces are exercising extreme caution to avoid collateral damage and ensure safety,” they said.

J&K DGP Nalin Prabhat arrived at the Kulgam encounter site to review the ongoing operation for the third time in seven days. He was accompanied by IGP Kashmir and other senior officials.

Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Northern Command reviewed the counter-terrorism grid in South Kashmir and was briefed on the prevailing security situation in the region.

In a post shared on X, the Northern Command of the Indian Army stated, “Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, Army Commander Northern Command, reviewed the counter-terrorism grid in South Kashmir, where he was briefed on the security situation, operational readiness and ongoing operations.”

“He complimented all ranks for their steadfastness and resilience, enabling the Indian Army’s resolute commitment to ensuring peace and security in the region,” the X post read—(KNO)

07/08/2025

Rotten meat floods markets: FDA destroys over 3500 kg in Kashmir

Unlabelled meat dumped near roads, water bodies in panic, cold storages under scanner: Commissioner FDA

People turn whistleblowers, help authorities to identify storage points

Srinagar, Aug 07 (KNO): In an ongoing crackdown on the supply of ‘unsafe’ meat and dressed chicken in Kashmir, the Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has seized and destroyed over 35 quintals (3,500 kg) of decomposed and unlabelled meat in recent days. The action is part of an intensified enforcement drive by the FDA to ensure food safety and public health.

Officials told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) the seized consignments were either being transported or stored without proper labelling or cold-chain logistics, raising serious concerns over public health and food safety.

“The meat was in a decomposed condition, packed without any identification or temperature control. In many cases, we could not even open the packages due to the foul smell,” Smiti Sethi, Commissioner, FDA Kashmir told KNO.

The crackdown has sparked panic among those involved in the trade. Sethi said that illegal suppliers are now dumping meat consignments in open areas and even water bodies to evade detection.

“This is a panic response. They know we are closing in. So, before the material reaches markets or checkpoints, they are dumping it on roadsides or in water bodies,” Sethi said.

According to the officials, during the past 72 hours, raids have been conducted in several locations across Kashmir, including Srinagar, Pulwama, and Central Kashmir, where large stocks of suspected rotten poultry and mutton were seized. A single raid in Lasjan led to the seizure of over five quintals, where the owner of the stock is claiming the supply is for commercial distribution to restaurants and hotels.

The FDA says that public complaints were crucial in triggering the enforcement. Residents reported foul smells and suspicious movements, helping authorities identify storage points.

“People have turned into whistleblowers. We are grateful for their cooperation. With our limited staff, we can’t reach every corner unless people help us,” Sethi said.

The crackdown is being supported by local police units, who have accompanied FDA officials during field operations. Officials say the coordination is crucial for ensuring safety and law enforcement during seizures.

As per the officials, cold storage units and meat supply hubs were now under the FDA’s scanner. While the department has not yet named any specific facilities, officials confirmed that an investigation is underway.

“Yes, we are monitoring them closely. I won’t reveal names right now due to the sensitivity of the probe,” Sethi said.

Samples from the seized stock have been sent for laboratory testing, and further legal action under the Food Safety and Standards Act is expected once reports arrive.

“This is just the beginning. We are committed to ensuring that only safe and legal food reaches the public,” Sethi added.

As per the officials, during the past two days, the department conducted a series of surprise inspections and raids in multiple locations. Notably, in the Safakadal and Parimpora areas of district Srinagar, enforcement teams seized 2,500 kababs found to be processed using frozen meat containing unpermitted food colour. These adulterated kebabs were destroyed on the spot and safely disposed-off to prevent any risk to public health.

Additionally, 150 kilograms of meatballs (Gushtaba) were also seized during the operations. Legal food samples of the seized products were collected by Food Safety Officers for detailed analysis and further legal action.

In a separate incident in the Nagbal area of district Ganderbal, approximately 250 kilograms of locally procured meat were destroyed due to visible signs of deterioration caused by improper handling and storage conditions—(KNO)

06/08/2025

PM to virtually flag off Vaishno Devi Katra-Amritsar Vande Bharat train on Aug 10

Jammu, Aug 06 (KNO): The Jammu Rail Division said on Wednesday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will virtually flag off a Vande Bharat Express train service between Amritsar in Punjab and Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra in J&K on August 10.

A senior officer of the Jammu rail division, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said, “The Vande Bharat train will provide a comfortable and faster travel experience to the passengers going to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra,”

“Vande Bharat train No. 26406 will run from Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra to Amritsar while train No. 26405 will run from Amritsar to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Katra six days a week except Tuesday,” he added.

A statement said that train No. 26406 will depart from Katra at 6:40 am and reach Amritsar at 12:20 pm, with stops at Jammu, Pathankot Cantt, Jalandhar City, Vyas etc.

The same train numbered 26405 will depart from Amritsar at 4:25 pm and reach Katra at 10 pm.

“The train will benefit passengers who plan to visit the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. It will take less time to cover the distance due to its advanced features,” it added—(KNO)

Kashmir Dinbhar

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