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Rohit Kansal appointed Rural Development Secretary as ACC clears major IAS reshuffle

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Rohit Kansal appointed Rural Development Secretary as ACC clears major IAS reshuffle

New Delhi, Mar 31: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) on Tuesday approved a series of high-level appointments and transfers of IAS officers across key ministries of the Government of India, as per a release issued by the Secretariat of the ACC.

As per the order issued, Ms. Nivedita Shukla Verma, IAS (UP:91), Secretary, Department of Chemicals and Petro-Chemicals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers as Secretary, Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions with additional charge of the post of Secretary, Department of Pensions and Pensioners Welfare, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.

Shri Chanchal Kumar, IAS (BH:92), Secretary, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region as Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting vice Shri Sanjay Jaju, IAS (TG:92) upon his appointment as Secretary, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region.

Shri Narendra Bhooshan, IAS (UP:92), presently in the Cadre, as Secretary, Department of Land Resources, Ministry of Rural Development.

Shri Chandra Sekhar Kumar, IAS (OR:92), Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs as Chief Executive Office, National Rainfed Area Authority. Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare in the rank and pay of Secretary to the Government of India.

Shri Sanjay Jaju, IAS (TG:92), Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting as Secretary, Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region vice Shri Chanchal Kumar, IAS (BH:92) upon his appointment as Secretary, Ministry of lnformation & Broadcasting.

Shri Srivatsa Krishna, IAS (KN:94), Secretary, Ministry of Tourism as Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs vice Shri Chandra Sekhar Kumar. IAS (OR:92) upon his appointment as Chief Executive Officer, National Rainfed Area Authority, Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.

Shri Tejveer Singh, IAS (PB:94), presently in the Cadre, as Secretary, Department of Chemicals and Petro-Chemicals, Ministry of Chemicals and FertilizerS vice Ms. Nivedita Shukla Verma, IAS (UP:91) upon her appointment as Secretary, Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions with additional charge of the post of Secretary, Department of Pensions and Pensioners Welfare, Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions.

Sanjay Lohiya, IAS (AM:94), Additional Secretary, Ministry of Mines as Special Secretary,  Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance by temporarily upgrading a vacant post of Joint Secretary in the Department. The officer will take over as Secretary, Department of Financial Services. Ministry of Finance vice Shri Nagaraju Maddirala, \AS (TR:93) upon his superannuation on 31.05.2026.

Shri Rohit Kansal, IAS (AGMUT:95), Additional Secretary, Ministry of Textiles as Secretary, Department of Rural Development, Ministry of Rural Development vice Shri Shailesh Kumar Singh, IAS (JH:91) upon his superannuation on 31.03.2026.

Shri Bharat Harbanslal Khera, IAS (HP:96), Additional Secretary, Department of Consumer Affairs, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution as Officer on Special Duty, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises in the rank and pay of Secretary to the Government of India. The officer ill take over as Secretary, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises vice Shri Subhas Chandra Lal Das, IAS (AGMUT:92) upon his Superannuation on 30.04.2026.

Shri Abhishek Singh, IAS (NL:95), Director General, National Informatics Centre, Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology as Director General, National Testing Agency, Ministry of Education in the rank and pay of Secretary to the Government of India by temporarily upgrading the post.

Shri Bhuvnesh Kumar, IAS (UP:95), Chief Executive Oficer, Unique Identification Authority of India, Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology as Secretary, Ministry of Tourism vice Shri Srivatsa Krishna. IAS (KN:94) upon his appointment as Secretary, Ministry of Minority Affairs.

The ACC has also approved in-situ upgradation of the folowing officers to the level of Special Secretary in the rank and pay of Secretary to the Government of India as a measure personal to them by temporarily upgrading the posts held by them:

Shri Sanjay Rastogi, IAS (OR:91), Director General, National Archives of India, Ministry of Culture as Director General, National Archives of India, Ministry of Culture in the rank and pay of Secretary to the Government of India.

Shri Sajjan Singh Yadav, IAS (AGMUT:96), Additional Secretary, Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance as Special Secretary, Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance.

Greater Kashmir

India managed situation effectively, says PM Modi; likens Congress to ‘political vultures’

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India managed situation effectively, says PM Modi; likens Congress to ‘political vultures’

Tharad (Gujarat), Mar 31: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday said while the world is grappling with war, unrest, and rising fuel prices, India has managed the situation effectively due to strong foreign policy and the unity of its people.

He accused the Congress of trying to create panic so that people queue up at fuel stations and gas agencies, likening the party to “political vultures” waiting to exploit the situation (arising out of the West Asia war) and reap political dividends.

“At a time when the world is grappling with war, unrest and rising fuel prices, India has managed the situation effectively due to strong foreign policy and the unity of its people,” Modi said while addressing a gathering at Nani village in Vav Tharad district of Gujarat.

He said certain political parties, mainly Congress, are trying to take advantage of the situation by spreading panic and fear, instead of supporting national unity.

“Today, the Congress party is busy inciting the people. Like political vultures, it (Congress) is waiting for the situation to escalate so that it can exploit and reap political dividends,” Modi added.

The Prime Minister noted that though fuel prices have risen by as much as 10 per cent globally due to the West Asia conflict, the Central government is ensuring that the burden of this impact does not fall upon people.

“The Congress desires to create an atmosphere of panic in the country, hoping that the people will be forced to queue up at petrol pumps and gas agencies,” he added.

Modi asserted that India will emerge as a world leader in the renewable energy sector.

He said the circumstances in West Asia have affected every country, but India managed the situation well.

Continuing his attack on the Opposition, Modi said they want to spread anarchy.

“India is capable of facing any crisis. However, Congress is trying to instigate people to queue up at fuel pumps and spread disorder,” he added.

Greater Kashmir

India stands resolute under PM Modi’s leadership: Lieutenant Governor

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India stands resolute under PM Modi’s leadership: Lieutenant Governor

Jammu, Mar 31: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday attended the Mahavir Janma Kalyanak, a special event organized by S.S Jain Sabha, to celebrate Mahavir Jayanti, at Jammu.

The Lieutenant Governor extended his felicitations and best wishes to all on the auspicious occasion.

In his address, the Lieutenant Governor spoke on Lord Mahavira’s teachings of Ahimsa and Anekantavada, emphasizing right faith, knowledge, and conduct in today’s world, which urgently needs compassion, peace, and brotherhood.

“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji, India stands resolute today. He has laid foundation for a powerful nation which is inspiring the world with its message that true peace is not weakness but unwavering courage and this is a time to build bridges, not battlefields,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor said that amid global conflicts and strife, humanity must draw lessons from Lord Mahavira’s teachings which fosters enduring peace and unbreakable brotherhood.

“True progress stems from responsibility and accountability to one’s actions. To envision a better future, we must bridge divides among people, fostering trust through understanding diverse cultures, ideas, and experiences,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor observed that Lord Mahavira focus on introspection, individual transformation and his teachings of discipline, faith, and awareness can elevate society.

“By internalizing Ahimsa, restraint, austerity, Anekantavada, non-possession, and truth, we can contribute meaningfully to nation-building. Our impact depends on the character we cultivate,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor called upon the young generation to infuse non-violence into its mindset and reform attitudes toward nature, long exploited as mere utility. “True Ahimsa transcends ethics, becoming the sharpest environmental strategy,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor emphasized that Lord Mahavira’s legacy is a refined guidebook for navigating complexity.

“Lord Mahavira declared Ahimsa, restraint, and austerity the supreme auspiciousness. One whose mind dwells therein earns even god’s salutations. This is his bequest and heritage for every generation.

Through Anekantavada, Lord Mahavira taught humility. He affirmed truth’s multifaceted nature, no single viewpoint captures it fully. Today, amid echo chambers, people mistake opinions for absolute truth, eroding balance. On Mahavira Jayanti, embrace intellectual humility, questioning one’s opinion exemplifies supreme wisdom,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor also felicitated the achievers from diverse fields.

Suneel Jain, President, SS Jain Sabha; Devki Nandan, Jain, Vice President, Pavinder Vijay Jain, General Secretary and other members of SS Jain Sabha, Jammu, prominent citizens and people from different walks joined the celebrations.

Justice Rajnesh Oswal; Members of Legislative Assembly, Yudhvir Sethi and Arvind Gupta; Anand Jain, ADGP Armed; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Bhim Sen Tuti, IGP Jammu and other senior officers were also present.

Greater Kashmir

Army rescued 34 individuals trapped in Baramulla school hostel

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Army rescued 34 individuals trapped in Baramulla school hostel

Srinagar, Mar 31: Army rescued 34 persons, including 30 students and four teachers, who were trapped in a school hostel in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday after heavy rainfall caused a sudden rise in water levels, officials said.

“Continuous and intense rainfall caused a sudden rise in water levels in a stream in the Watargam area of Rafiabad (Baramulla), leading to flooding in a local school hostel. As a result, 30 school children and four teachers were trapped inside the premises with no safe exit routes,” the officials said.

The locals approached the army unit stationed there, which responded by launching a prompt humanitarian assistance operation.

“Despite challenging conditions and dangerously high water levels, the teams managed to reach the stranded individuals and safely evacuate all 34 persons to secure locations,” the officials said.

Following the evacuation, the army provided the rescued children and staff with necessary assistance, including medical care and refreshments.

The army was assisted in the operation by the police, district administration and local youngsters, they added.

A snow avalanche was reported in the Tulail area of the Gurez sector in Bandipora district. However, officials said it caused no damage as it remained confined to the mountainous region.

The valley received moderate rainfall in the plains and snowfall in some higher reaches over the past 48 hours.

Baramulla received over 70 mm of rainfall in the past 24 hours, the highest in the valley. Nowgam in the Handwara area received 58.2 mm during the corresponding period, followed by Qazigund (48.6 mm) and Kulgam (42.2 mm). Srinagar city also received a fair amount of rain, recording 31.6 mm of precipitation in the past 24 hours.

The weather in Kashmir is expected to remain cloudy on Wednesday before another wet spell over the weekend, they said.

Greater Kashmir

Five Kashmir glacial lakes identified to have ‘very high’ flood risk: J-K CM Omar Abdullah

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Five Kashmir glacial lakes identified to have ‘very high’ flood risk: J-K CM Omar Abdullah

Jammu, March 31: At least five glacial lakes in the Kashmir Himalaya have “very high susceptibility” to glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), even though they are not immediately unstable, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said on Tuesday.

Speaking in the assembly, Abdullah said a preliminary geospatial analysis was conducted to map downstream exposure of glacial lakes, identifying habitations and critical infrastructure along potential flood paths in districts like Ganderbal, Shopian and Kulgam.

The study was recently conducted by the University of Kashmir, published in the Journal of Glaciology, assessed 155 glacial lakes using hydro-geomorphic indicators such as lake expansion rate, dam stability and surrounding conditions.

According to the study, around 2,704 buildings, nearly 15 major bridges, road segments and at least one hydropower project could be affected in the event of a glacial lake outburst flood — a high-maginitude catastrophic flood caused by the failure of a dam containing a glacial lake.

“The study identified Bramsar, Chirsar, Nundkol, Gangabal and Bhagsar lakes as falling under the ‘very high susceptibility’ category,” he said, replying to a question of National Conference MLA Tanvir Sadiq.

However, the government stressed that such classification does not mean an imminent threat, but indicates a higher likelihood of outburst only under specific triggering conditions”, Abdullah said.

The chief minister said the assessment provides a baseline for understanding vulnerability and prioritising future detailed studies.

Highlighting gaps in accurate risk estimation, the study said that precise assessment of GLOFs requires reliable data on glacial lake volumes, which can only be obtained through field-based bathymetric measurements— finding out depth and topography of water bodies—currently unavailable for most Himalayan lakes. It added that work in this direction has already been initiated by researchers.

To strengthen scientific assessment, the Department of Geo-informatics, University of Kashmir has procured a high-precision RTK-enabled robotic echo-sounding boat with support from the Ministry of Earth Sciences, it added.

“Bathymetric surveys of at-risk glacial lakes in the western Himalaya are planned for 2026, aimed at improving hydrodynamic modelling and downstream risk evaluation”.

The study pointed out that these high-susceptibility lakes pose potential risks to downstream infrastructure.

Outlining mitigation measures, Abdullah said that continuous monitoring of vulnerable lakes through remote sensing and field assessments is being prioritised.

He added that early-warning systems, ecozonation plans for downstream areas and integration of GLOF risk scenarios into district-level disaster preparedness frameworks are part of the future strategy.

Researchers are also working on developing tailored GLOF early-warning systems for mountainous regions, integrating satellite monitoring, field observations, sensor-based hydro-meteorological inputs and near real-time communication systems to ensure timely detection and dissemination of hazard information, it said.

Greater Kashmir

India strengthening its role as reliable semiconductor supplier in global market: Modi

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India managed situation effectively, says PM Modi; likens Congress to ‘political vultures’

Gujarat, Mar 31: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Kaynes Semicon’s outsourced semiconductor assembly and test facility at Sanand on Tuesday and said India is strengthening its role as a reliable semiconductor supplier in the global market.

He said the inauguration of the facility strengthens India’s push towards self-reliance, which marks a landmark step in building a robust semiconductor ecosystem.

Modi said India’s decision to join the Pax Silica initiative aims to strengthen the supply of critical minerals.

Calling the development a moment of pride as an Indian company has joined the global semiconductor supply chain, Modi said this is not just the time of economic competition but a time to shape the future tech landscape.

“With the commencement of production in this project, India is further strengthening its role as a reliable semiconductor supplier in the global market. In a sense, a new bridge has emerged today between Sanand and Silicon Valley; the plant in Sanand is now supplying Intelligent Power Modules to a company based in California,” the prime minister added.

Modi said India launched the Semiconductor Mission in 2021, which is not just an industrial policy but a declaration of India’s confidence.

“India launched Semiconductor Mission 2 in the last budget to make the country self-reliant in every sector of production”, he added.

Greater Kashmir

J&K govt clearing liabilities regularly, over Rs 18,000 cr paid in 2025-26: CM

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J&K govt clearing liabilities regularly, over Rs 18,000 cr paid in 2025-26: CM

Jammu, Mar 31: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday said the government is regularly clearing its financial liabilities, including dues to contractors and retired employees, with over Rs 18,000 crore paid during financial year 2025–26.

Replying to a question of BJP MLA Sham Lal Sharma in the Legislative Assembly, he said “the financial liabilities of the government in the shape of bills presented at treasuries are cleared on regular basis. Bills pertaining to contractors and retired employees are also cleared at regular intervals”.

He said liabilities in the form of bills presented at treasuries are being cleared on a regular basis and at periodic intervals.

A total of Rs 18,382.26 crore have been paid so far by the department of finance, he said.

Abdullah said during 2025–26 financial year ending March 31 , payments have been made across multiple heads, including Rs 7,800.58 crore towards contractor bills, Rs 5,821.43 crore under General Provident Fund (GPF), Rs 2,864.14 crore as gratuity, Rs 1,123.22 crore for commutation and Rs 773.47 crore towards leave salary.

He added that most of the bills under these categories have been cleared up to March 27, 2026, while GPF claims have been settled up to December 31, 2025.

Addressing concerns regarding pending liabilities, he said dues are being systematically cleared and there is a structured mechanism in place to ensure timely payments. On the issue of division-wise allocation, the chief minister clarified that funds are allocated and accounted for based on “Heads of Expenditure” rather than on a divisional basis, and payments in treasuries are recorded accordingly.

Greater Kashmir

Benefits, When to Start & Mistakes to Avoid

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Benefits, When to Start & Mistakes to Avoid

For the first few weeks, it’s all quiet. You’re navigating the haze of sleepless nights, and everyone is tiptoeing around the “delicate” phase. But the moment that umbilical cord stump falls off and your baby starts filling out their onesies, the suggestions start pouring in.

“Ab toh malish shuru kar do” (Start the massage now) says your mother-in-law. “Haddiyan mazboot hongi,” (The bones will get strong) adds the neighbour.

In India, baby massage isn’t just a chore; it’s a high-stakes ritual. But for a modern parent in 2026, it can feel like a tug-of-war between “Dadi’s Nuske” and scientific safety. Brands like Mother Sparsh have stepped in to bridge that gap, taking those legendary Indian ingredients and putting them through the “Is this actually gentle for sensitive skin?” test.

Let’s break it down: the real benefits of baby massage, when to begin, and the mistakes you’ll want to avoid.

Why Baby Massage Is More Than Just a Tradition

Baby massage isn’t about oil. It’s about touch.

When you gently massage your baby, you’re doing more than moisturizing their skin. You’re helping improve blood circulation, supporting muscle and bone development, and even aiding digestion. Many parents notice their babies sleep better after a massage, and let’s be honest, better baby sleep feels like winning the lottery.

There’s also science behind it. Gentle massage stimulates the nervous system, reduces stress hormones, and promotes relaxation. For babies struggling with gas or colic, slow clockwise tummy strokes can bring visible relief.

And then there’s the bonding. That uninterrupted 15-20 minutes of eye contact, giggles, and tiny fingers gripping yours? That’s a connection being built in real time.

When Should You Start Baby Massage?

Most paediatricians recommend starting massage after the umbilical cord stump falls off. This usually happens within the first couple of weeks after birth.

Timing matters too. Choose a moment when your baby is alert but calm, not overly hungry, and definitely not right after a full feed (unless you enjoy surprise spit-ups). Traditionally, many Indian families prefer a massage before bath time, as it helps relax the baby and prepare them for sleep.

If your baby was born premature or has sensitive skin, it’s always wise to consult your paediatrician before starting a massage routine.

Choosing the Right Oil: The Great Indian Debate

With so many traditional favourites in every household, choosing the right oil can feel confusing.

This is why many parents are opting for Mother Sparsh Nourishing Massage Oil. It’s a thoughtful blend that hits all the traditional high notes without the irritation:

  1. Lall-Tail (Sesame Oil): The ancient secret for muscle strength.
  2. Almond Oil: To keep that delicate skin soft.
  3. Olive Oil: For the perfect “glide” that supports easy movement.

It’s light enough to absorb without turning your baby into a chip-chip (sticky), but rich enough to actually nourish the skin.

How to Massage Your Baby (Without Feeling Nervous About It)

First things first, you don’t need professional-level skills.

Set the room comfortably warm. Lay your baby on a soft surface. Warm a small amount of oil between your palms before applying it.

Start with the legs, using gentle strokes from thigh to ankle. Move to the arms, chest, and tummy. For the tummy, use slow clockwise circular motions; this supports digestion. Finish with the back using soft, downward strokes.

Remember: you’re not kneading dough. Gentle, loving pressure is enough. Watch your baby’s cues. If they smile, stretch, or coo, you’re doing great. If they stiffen or cry, pause and try again later.

Common Baby Massage Mistakes to Avoid

Even well-meaning parents can make a few mistakes:

  • Applying too much pressure
  • Using oil that feels cold on the skin
  • Massaging immediately after feeding
  • Ignoring signs of discomfort
  • Massaging during fever or skin infections

More pressure doesn’t mean stronger bones. Babies respond best to warmth, gentleness, and consistency.

Also, avoid blindly following outdated practices. For example, forcefully stretching limbs or shaping the nose (yes, it’s still suggested sometimes!) isn’t recommended.

Final Thoughts

Baby massage in India is a tradition rooted in love, care, and instinct. When combined with safe, thoughtfully formulated products like those from Mother Sparsh, it becomes a beautiful blend of heritage and modern parenting awareness.

At the end of the day, it isn’t about perfection. It’s about connection.

And sometimes, all your baby really needs is your warm hands and a few quiet minutes of undivided attention.

Greater Kashmir

LG Sinha condoles loss of lives in drowning incident in Jammu’s Tawi river

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LG Sinha condoles loss of lives in drowning incident in Jammu’s Tawi river

Jammu, Mar 31: Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Tuesday expressed grief over the loss of lives in a drowning incident in the Tawi river at Nagrota.

While the bodies of two boys who drowned in the river on Sunday have been recovered, the search for the third boy is underway.

Sinha also spoke to senior officials and took stock of the search and rescue operations, a Lok Bhawan spokesman said

“The loss of young lives is heart-wrenching. My deepest condolences and heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families. We stand in solidarity with them during this difficult time,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The three boys — Bavish Koul (15), Sonam Dutt (16) and Aditya Pandit (15) — were swept away by a strong current near the Nagrota Sainik School on the outskirts of Jammu on Sunday evening.

Teams from the police and other agencies have managed to retrieve the bodies of Koul and Pandit so far.

Greater Kashmir

EOW exposes Srinagar property fraud worth over 55 lakh rupees; chargesheet filed

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EOW exposes Srinagar property fraud worth over 55 lakh rupees; chargesheet filed

Srinagar, Mar 31: The Economic Offences Wing, Srinagar of Crime Branch J&K said that it has filed a chargesheet before the Court of City Judge Srinagar, unraveling a major property fraud worth more the fifty-five lakh rupees in Srinagar, officials said.

In a statement, an EOW Kashmir spokesperson stated, “The Economic Offences Wing, Srinagar of Crime Branch J&K has filed a chargesheet in case FIR No. 10/2026 under Section 420 IPC against Mehraj-Ud-Din Dar S/o Abdul Ahad Dar, a resident of Alamdar Colony Rawalpora, A/P Tengpora Batamaloo Srinagar, before the Hon’ble Court of City Judge Srinagar.”

He said the case originated from a written complaint alleging that the accused is a habitual offender who employed a calculated modus operandi to defraud innocent individuals. It was reported that after receiving payments, the accused deliberately failed to honour commitments and, in an attempt to evade legal action and recovery proceedings, transferred or registered acquired properties in the name of his wife.

“Upon receipt of the complaint, the Economic Offences Wing initiated a detailed probe. During the course of investigation, it was prima facie established that the accused had cheated the complainant of Rs. 55.11 lakhs under the pretext of selling a residential house. Despite receiving the payment, the accused sold the same property to another individual,” the spokesperson said.

Further investigation revealed that the said property had already been mortgaged with J&K Bank, Branch Office Bhagat, Srinagar. Notably, the complainant had also liquidated the outstanding housing loan associated with the property, he said.

The spokesperson further said that the investigation concluded that the actions of the accused constitute a cognizable offence under Section 420 IPC. Accordingly, the chargesheet has been filed before the competent court for judicial determination.

Greater Kashmir

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