Srinagar, July 24: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today presided over the curtain raiser for the Ist International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK) at the Royal Springs Golf Course here, describing the forthcoming festival as a landmark initiative to revive Jammu and Kashmir’s historic association with cinema and establish J&K as a preferred destination for filmmaking.

The launch event was attended by Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo, Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta, eminent filmmaker and Padma Shri awardee Muzaffar Ali, renowned filmmaker and writer Imtiaz Ali, filmmaker Sajid Ali, Director Information Shreya Singhal, Secretary in Information Department, Munir ul Islam, Secretary Royal Springs Golf Course Haris Ahmad Handoo, Joint Director Information Shahnawaz Bukhari, senior government officers and members of the film fraternity.

Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister said the festival marks the beginning of a renewed partnership between Jammu and Kashmir and the film industry, recalling a time when Kashmir was an integral part of Indian cinema.

“There was a time when filmmaking in Bollywood and Kashmir was synonymous. No film was considered complete unless it had at least one sequence shot in the Valley. Even if an entire film was not shot here, at least one memorable song was,” he said.

Highlighting the vision behind IFFJK, Omar Abdullah said the festival seeks to rebuild that historic bond while creating new opportunities for local talent, strengthening the creative economy and showcasing Jammu and Kashmir to audiences across the world. “Our loss has been many other countries’ gain. Had Kashmir remained consistently open for filmmaking, many productions that went elsewhere would have continued to come here. Today, we stand at the cusp of rebuilding that relationship,” he said.

The Chief Minister stressed that the Government is working to create a filmmaker-friendly ecosystem by simplifying procedures, reducing production costs and developing a skilled local workforce to support film production.

“We need to make it easier for filmmakers to come here, cheaper for them to shoot here, and ensure that our young people are equipped with the skills required to support filmmaking activities,” he said, adding that the necessary groundwork has already begun.

Referring to filmmaker Muzaffar Ali’s long-awaited project Zooni, Omar Abdullah expressed happiness that the unfinished work had now been completed by Muzaffar Ali’s son. Originally conceived in the late 1980s with Vinod Khanna and Dimple Kapadia in lead roles, he said the film would present Kashmir in a way not seen over the past four decades.

“If what has been completed carries even a fraction of the vision with which it was originally conceived, it will showcase Kashmir in a way it has not been presented for decades. Screening it at a Film Festival in Kashmir would elevate the festival to an entirely different level,” he said.

Expressing confidence that IFFJK would become a permanent fixture on the global film calendar, the Chief Minister said the Government envisions it evolving into an internationally recognised film festival with parallel screening in Jammu and Gulmarg.

“This is the first, but certainly not the last. Great film festivals acquire an identity and brand of their own. We hope that, in the years ahead, the International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir will stand alongside the finest festivals in the country and eventually earn recognition among the best in the world,” he said.

The Chief Minister also welcomed the decision to keep Srinagar Airport operational during the festival period, saying it had removed a major logistical concern and would ensure smooth participation by filmmakers, artists and guests from across the country and abroad.

He thanked Muzaffar Ali, Imtiaz Ali and Sajid Ali for supporting the initiative and for their longstanding association with Jammu and Kashmir.

“Your presence here is encouraging not merely because of your words but because your actions over the years have demonstrated your deep association with Jammu and Kashmir. Your support gives this initiative tremendous strength, and we look forward to welcoming you all back for the festival in September,” he said.

Addressing the gathering, Chief Secretary, Atal Dulloo said that this curtain raiser ceremony is a historic occasion which reminds the great partnership of J&K with Bollywood. He added that this platform is a great occasion to establish the bond with Bollywood.

The Chief Secretary also said that J&K has a goldmine of talent and potential and we need to give platform like this to our budding filmmakers to showcase their talent.

Padma Shri awardee and noted film maker, Muzaffar Ali, while speaking on the occasion highlighted that Kashmir has special place in the Bollywood from the very beginning. He also remembered his association with the Kashmir while shooting for various remarkable films here.
In his address, renowned filmmaker and writer Imtiaz Ali said that Kashmiri youth are brightest as far as talent is concerned. He also remembered his association with Kashmir while shooting for various Bollywood blockbusters in the valley.

Earlier, in her welcome address, Director Information, Shreya Singhal said that this curtain raiser ceremony will set the centre stage for homecoming of cinema to Jammu and Kashmir.

The Director Information highlighted that this film festival aims to establish J&K as a prime film shooting destination in the country. She added that till date around 400 entries from over 25 countries in different formats have been received for screening during the festival and the entry for film submissions will close on 30th July, 2026.

During the event, the Chief Minister also unveiled the merchandise of the Film Festival.

Pertinently, the first International Film Festival of Jammu & Kashmir (IFFJK), scheduled to be held from 7th to 10th September 2026, is envisioned as a premier platform celebrating cinema, culture and creativity while showcasing the region’s breathtaking landscapes, artistic heritage and emerging filmmaking ecosystem. The festival is expected to bring together filmmakers, artists, industry leaders and cinema enthusiasts from India and around the world, reaffirming Jammu and Kashmir’s place on the global cinematic map.

Srinagar, July 24: Director General of Police (DGP) J&K Nalin Prabhat today chaired a security review meeting at PCR Kashmir to assess the prevailing security scenario and other emerging challenges across the Union Territory.

At the outset of the meeting, the participating officers presented a comprehensive assessment of the prevailing security scenario across the Union Territory, including the current operational environment, threat perception and preparedness of field formations.

DGP Prabhat directed the officers to intensify area domination and night domination, particularly in vulnerable and urban areas, to deter anti-national elements and maintain a strong police presence. The DGP emphasized strengthening the security grid around critical infrastructure while reinforcing intelligence collection and coordination among all security and intelligence agencies.

Reviewing the counter-terrorism framework, the DGP instructed officers to intensify intelligence-led operations to identify, track and neutralize residual terror networks. He stressed the importance of close coordination among all stakeholders to facilitate swift operational responses and effectively counter any attempt to disturb public order or undermine the security environment.

Highlighting the critical role of reliable communication in policing, DGP Prabhat stressed the need to ensure uninterrupted telecommunication connectivity and resilient communication networks across all police formations.

Furthermore, the DGP called for heightened situational awareness across all formations and directed officers to maintain continuous oversight of weather-related preparedness. The DGP also emphasized that communication networks and field-level coordination must remain fully operational to address any emergencies arising out of inclement weather.

The meeting concluded with the DGP urging all officers to remain mission-focused, vigilant and responsive, emphasizing that coordinated action and sustained preparedness are essential to safeguarding peace and public confidence across the Union Territory.

The meeting was attended by Special DG Coord J&K, ADGP HQ J&K, ADGP CID J&K, IGP POS, IGP Kashmir Zone, IGP Jammu Zone, IGP Security J&K, IGP Railways J&K, IGP Traffic J&K, IGP CID J&K, IGP Crime J&K, DPT J&K, DIG CID Kashmir, all Range DIGs of J&K, DIGs Traffic Kashmir/Jammu, DIG Pers PHQ, DIG Hqr PHQ, DIG Crime J&K, DIG IR Jammu, DIG Security J&K, DIG Railways J&K, SSP PCR Kashmir, all District SSPs of J&K, all Commandants of JKAP/IRP Bns of J&K, AIG (CT. & Int.) PHQ J&K, SSPs APCR Jammu/Kashmir, SSPs Telecom Jammu/Kashmir, SSP Cargo Srinagar/Jammu and other officers.

Srinagar, July 24: Leader of Opposition in the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Sunil Sharma, on Friday visited the family of Head Constable Ashiq Hussain, who was killed in a militant attack while on duty at Lal Chowk in Anantnag, and said the country would remain indebted to the family that has lost two generations in the service of the nation.

Leading a BJP delegation to the slain policeman’s home in Lalpora, Verinag, Sharma expressed condolences to the bereaved family and said he had also facilitated a phone conversation between Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the martyr’s son.

“Head Constable Ashiq Hussain was martyred two days ago while protecting this country and performing his duty at Lal Chowk, Anantnag. The whole of Jammu and Kashmir is mourning his loss,” Sharma said.

Recalling the family’s history of sacrifice, he said Ashiq Hussain’s father had also laid down his life in 1995.

“Thirty-one years ago, in February 1995, Ashiq Hussain’s father from the same family was martyred. Today, the son has also sacrificed his life while protecting the nation. Not just we, but the entire country is indebted to this family, and I do not think we can ever repay that debt.”

Sharma said Amit Shah had conveyed his condolences directly to the family.

“The Home Minister had asked me that when I visit here, I should connect him with the family. He also said that when he comes to Kashmir, he will definitely visit them,” Sharma said.

Assuring the family of continued support, he added: “On behalf of my party and the Government of India, I have assured them that a family which has given two martyrs to the nation will never be left alone. This will not remain only in words; they will practically feel that the nation and the Government of India stand with them.”

Responding to a demand from villagers that Lalpora be developed as a model village in recognition of its sacrifices, Sharma said efforts would be made to create a lasting memorial.

“This is a family of two martyrs. To keep their name alive and to give Lalpora its identity, we will make every effort to ensure there is some memorial — a statue, a ground, a school or some other mark of remembrance in this village,” he said.

Asked about the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir, Sharma said terrorism had declined significantly over the past few years but had not yet been completely eliminated.

“You have to go back 36 years. This is not a fight between two families; it is a conflict in which another country has been involved. It has been targeting our people. But if you look at the last four or five years, there has been a major decline in such incidents. This attack came after almost one to one-and-a-half years. Earlier, we used to see ten bodies in a day. Entire buses of passengers were taken off and shot. We have seen brides and grooms being killed. Today’s incident reminds us that terrorism has not yet been completely rooted out.”

On the demand for a risk allowance for Jammu and Kashmir Police personnel, Sharma said he fully supported the proposal.

“There is no doubt that the Jammu and Kashmir Police have made immense sacrifices in protecting the nation. I completely accept that they should get a risk allowance. I had raised this earlier in Kupwara as well. Work is underway, and the Jammu and Kashmir Police truly deserve it. They are a unique police force that has fought terrorism and continues to do so.”

Addressing the long-pending demands of Special Police Officers (SPOs), Sharma said their salaries had improved since the BJP came to power and hinted that another enhancement could be announced soon.

“Earlier, SPOs used to receive only ₹3,000, and even that was not paid regularly. After the Modi government came to power, a mechanism was created under which their salaries increased in phases. Recruitment into the police also gives them special weightage. Their present demand is for salary enhancement, and it is under consideration by the Central Government. I am confident you will hear good news on this very soon.”

Sharma also commented on the recent collapse of a commercial complex in Verinag, saying the Jammu and Kashmir government should first assess the losses and seek Central assistance.

“The state government should first evaluate the damage and send a proposal to the Centre. The Centre is ready to help. The Chief Minister himself has said that Delhi is providing funds generously. Let the proposal come, and we will also extend all possible assistance.”

Srinagar, Jul 24: Senior CPI(M) leader and MLA Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami on Friday condemned the killing of a police personnel at Lal Chowk in Anantnag, calling it a “deeply unfortunate and highly condemnable” incident, while cautioning the authorities against resorting to arbitrary action in its aftermath.

Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, Tarigami expressed condolences to the bereaved family and said the Jammu and Kashmir Police have been performing their duties under extremely challenging circumstances.

“The real culprits must be identified through a fair and professional investigation and brought to justice in accordance with the law. Indiscriminate and unabated arrests are avoidable as they have repeatedly proved to be counterproductive,” he said.

Referring to reports of large-scale arrests in parts of South Kashmir following the killing, Tarigami said while acts of violence deserve unequivocal condemnation, the response of law-enforcing agencies must remain within the framework of the Constitution and the rule of law.

He said investigations supported by evidence were the only effective means of apprehending those responsible, adding that past experience had shown indiscriminate arrests neither strengthened security nor advanced the cause of peace. Instead, such actions created resentment and inadvertently served the interests of anti-social elements.

Tarigami said the people of Jammu and Kashmir had suffered the consequences of violence for more than three decades and that the experience underscored the need for restraint, sensitivity and adherence to the law.

“Violence cannot be defeated by violating the rights of innocent people. Unabated harassment only breeds anger and alienation, making the task of isolating anti-social and anti-people elements even more difficult,” he said.

The CPI(M) leader said there was now a broad consensus among the people of Jammu and Kashmir that violence was against the interests of ordinary citizens, as it disrupted livelihoods, education and normal life.

He stressed that restoring public confidence required law-enforcement agencies to act professionally, fairly and transparently instead of relying on indiscriminate action. Tarigami also criticised what he described as the recurring practice of re-arresting individuals who had previously been detained and released whenever such incidents occurred, terming the approach arbitrary and inappropriate.

Expressing concern over what he called the growing “bulldozer trend”, Tarigami alleged that demolishing residential houses of families remotely connected with accused persons amounted to collective punishment.

He said the Supreme Court had laid down clear guidelines prohibiting demolition of residential properties without due process, including proper notice and an opportunity to be heard, and urged the authorities to respect those safeguards.

“The responsibility of the government is to provide shelter to its citizens, not to deprive them of their homes without due legal process. Upholding the rule of law is the hallmark of a constitutional democracy,” he said.

Tarigami also sought the release of political detainees lodged in prisons outside Jammu and Kashmir, or alternatively their transfer to jails within the Union Territory to enable family members to meet them without undue hardship.

Commenting on the ongoing student protests in Delhi over the alleged NEET examination irregularities, Tarigami expressed solidarity with the agitating youth, saying they were demanding a thorough investigation, accountability for those responsible and the resignation of Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

He described the reported suicides of students linked to the alleged examination irregularities as tragic and said the nationwide student movement reflected growing public concern over repeated failures to safeguard students’ interests.

Tarigami also referred to the hunger strike of Ladakh-based environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk, saying his peaceful protest symbolised commitment to justice, democratic rights and the rule of law.

He criticised attempts to weaken scientific temper or distort history by deleting chapters from academic syllabi, saying such measures deprived future generations of critical knowledge.

The CPI(M) leader also criticised the police response to student protests in Delhi, alleging that the use of force against demonstrators had sparked widespread concern and calling for dialogue instead of repression.

Concluding, Tarigami said the ongoing youth mobilisation offered hope for strengthening democracy, accountability and the rule of law in the country.