Srinagar, Mar 08: The Director School Education Kashmir, Naseer Ahmad Wani, today clarified that all schools across the Kashmir division will reopen tomorrow as per the already notified schedule, dismissing rumours circulating on social media regarding any delay in reopening.

The Director urged parents and the general public not to pay heed to unverified information being shared online, stating that no change has been made to the reopening schedule after the winter vacation.

He further extended a warm welcome to students from Classes 1st to 8th, who will be attending school tomorrow on the first day after the winter break. Emphasizing the importance of a positive start to the academic session, the Director directed all Heads of Institutions (HOIs) and teaching staff to receive students warmly and ensure that the reopening day is conducted in accordance with the previously issued guidelines and instructions.

The School Education Department reaffirmed its commitment to providing a supportive and welcoming environment for students as they return to their schools after the winter vacation.

Srinagar, Mar 08: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Sunday seized six vehicles and three JCBs involved in illegal extraction & transportation of minerals in Anantnag and Ganderbal districts of Kashmir.

Acting on reliable information regarding illegal mining activities in Sandren Nala, a police team from Police Post Janglatmandi conducted a raid near the Shivpora area. During the operation, the team seized 03 JCB machines and 04 tractors involved in the illegal mining activity on the spot, police in a statement said.

Meanwhile in Ganderbal, Police seized two tippers carrying illegally extracted construction material in the Watalbagh area in the jurisdiction of PS Lar. The vehicles were intercepted by a police team during routine patrolling and checking. Upon inspection, the tippers were found transporting mining material without valid authorization, in violation of the prescribed norms. Accordingly, both vehicles were seized on the spot and the matter was taken up with the concerned Geology & Mining Department, which subsequently imposed the requisite fine under the relevant provisions of law.

In this regard, cases under relevant sections of law have been registered and investigations have been taken up.

J&K Police reiterates its commitment to take strict action against illegal mining and other unlawful activities that harm the environment and public resources, the statement added.

Budgam, Mar 08: Budgam Police on Sunday registered an FIR against an individual for circulating provocative and unverified videos on Instagram in the Chadoora area of the district, police officials said.

They said the videos were allegedly aimed at provoking youth and the general public, thereby posing a potential threat to public order.

In a statement, a police spokesperson said, “Police Station Chadoora received information that one Suhail Ahmad Bhat, S/o Nazir Ahmad Bhat, resident of Kuthipora Chadoora, had uploaded videos on his Instagram account titled “Master Electrician” related to a recent protest concerning the ongoing situation in the Middle East.”

The circulation of such content has the potential to create unnecessary panic, disturb public order, and adversely affect communal harmony, the statement said.

Accordingly, FIR No. 23/2026 under relevant sections of law has been registered at Police Station Chadoora, and investigation into the matter has been initiated, it said.

Budgam Police urge citizens to refrain from sharing unverified or provocative content on social media and to cooperate with authorities in maintaining peace, order, and harmony in the district.

Shopian, Mar 08: Renowned religious scholar and former president of Jamiat Ahl-e-Hadith Jammu and Kashmir, Maulana Muhammad Abdullah Tari, passed away at his native village Kachdoor in south Kashmir’s Shopian district on Sunday, leaving behind a legacy of scholarship, teaching and religious reform.

His death has triggered widespread grief across religious, academic and social circles, with many describing his passing as the end of an era for the region’s intellectual and religious landscape.

Family members and associates said Tari devoted his entire life to the promotion of knowledge, religious outreach and the moral and intellectual development of society.

Thousands of people from different parts of Kashmir participated in his funeral procession held at his native village, reflecting the respect and admiration he commanded among followers and admirers.

The Namaz-e-Janaza was led by prominent cleric Maulana Muhammad Maqbool Akhooni.

Religious scholars, students and members of various organizations gathered to pay their last respects to the late scholar.

Maulana Tari was widely regarded as a respected religious figure, author and thinker who wrote numerous books on religious and social issues.

Through his writings, lectures and teachings, he played a notable role in shaping religious discourse and guiding younger generations.

Scholars said his contribution to religious scholarship and education will continue to influence students and followers for years to come.

Jamiat Ahl-e-Hadith Jammu and Kashmir expressed profound grief over his demise and described his death as an irreparable loss to the religious and academic community.

In condolence messages, several religious and social personalities prayed for his forgiveness and the elevation of his ranks in the hereafter.

They also expressed solidarity with the bereaved family and followers of the late scholar.

Maulana Tari’s students and admirers said his dedication to scholarship, preaching and social reform will always be remembered. [KNT]

Shopian, Mar 08: An elderly man died after being hit by an unknown vehicle near a petrol pump at Memander area of south Kashmir’s Shopian district, officials said.

The deceased has been identified as Abdul Gani Bhat, son of Ali Mohammad Bhat, aged about 68 years and a resident of Shahlatoo Shopian.

Officials said the vehicle struck the pedestrian on the roadside, resulting in his death on the spot.

The body was later shifted to District Hospital Shopian for medico-legal formalities.

Police said the driver of the vehicle, identified as Fayaz Ahmad Ganie, son of Ghulam Mohammad Ganie and a resident of Kharwara, has been arrested.

Authorities said a case has been registered and further investigation into the accident is underway. [KNT]