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No one in whole world can match sacrifices made by Sikh Gurus for humanity, country: Amit Shah

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No one in whole world can match sacrifices made by Sikh Gurus for humanity, country: Amit Shah

Panchkula, Dec 24: Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Wednesday recalled the sacrifices made by the Sikh Gurus for humanity and asserted that the Narendra Modi government did not leave any stone unturned in highlighting the Sikh Guru tradition before the country and the world.

Shah was addressing a gathering this evening at the ‘Sahibzaadon Ko Naman’ programme ahead of ‘Veer Bal Diwas’ (December 26), the martyrdom day of Guru Gobind Singh’s sons, the Sahibzadas.

He paid tributes to the Sahibzadas, noting their supreme courage and sacrifice at a young age.

The programme included an exhibition on the life and sacrifices of the Sahibzadas, a sand art show and the release of a coffee table book.

During his address, Shah also said had Guru Tegh Bahadur, the ninth Sikh Guru, not sacrificed his life for the protection of faith, neither Hinduism nor Sikhism would have survived today.

For his sacrifice, the nation will always remain indebted, he said, while adding that this sacrifice is unparalleled in world history.

Shah, donning a turban, spoke about the sacrifices made by the Sahibzadas of the tenth Sikh Guru Gobind Singh and said that the Modi government in 2022 announced observation of the martyrdom of two younger sons as ‘Veer Bal Diwas’ on December 26.

For the past three years, the lives of the Sahibzadas have been taught and essay writing competitions are held in schools, he said, adding that all states, irrespective of being ruled by any party, have been observing this day.

Shah said in a way, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was fortunate that during his tenure, the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, the 350th martyrdom of Guru Tegh Bahadur and the 350th birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh fell.

He also said the Modi government did not leave any stone unturned in highlighting the Sikh Guru tradition before the country and the world.

Speaking about the steps taken by the Centre for the Sikh community, Shah said the home ministry granted Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA) registration to the Golden Temple in Amritsar, opened the Kartarpur corridor, reopened the 1984 anti-Sikh riot cases to ensure justice, provided Rs 5 lakh compensation, and gave citizenship to Sikh families who came from Afghanistan, Pakistan and Bangladesh.

He expressed his anguish over the Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara remaining in Pakistan during Partition in 1947.

“Many a time a question arises in my mind that during Partition, it must have been discussed what will be in India and what in Pakistan. Why Kartarpur Sahib Gurdwara was left there? I don’t understand it. May be those who were to decide about the Partition were not aware of this tradition,” he said.

During his address, Shah also spoke in detail about ten Sikh Gurus, starting from Guru Nanak Dev to Guru Gobind Singh, and their teachings and sacrifices for humanity and religion.

The Union home minister said no one in the whole world can match the sacrifices made by the Sikh Gurus for humanity and the country.

Speaking about the Sahibzadas, Shah said they did not bow to injustice and oppression and refused conversion even in the face of extreme cruelty.

He said they sacrificed their lives for religion and the nation at a very young age. Their sacrifice is a symbol of unwavering faith, valour and courage, he noted.

Shah also paid tribute to the sacrifice of Mata Gujri, grandmother of the Sahibzadas, stating that she imbued them with discipline, courage and values.

The supreme sacrifice of nine-year-old Baba Zorawar Singh and seven-year-old Baba Fateh Singh, who chose death for faith and truth rather than bowing before oppression, is not merely history but a symbol of India’s moral strength, he said.

Guru Gobind Singh’s entire family sacrificed their lives for the protection of dharma and justice, the Union home minister said.

Shah urged the people of the country to narrate the saga of sacrifice of the Sahibzadas to their families, especially children.

He said that whenever India faces a crisis, future generations will always be ready to protect the motherland.

He reminded that ‘Veer Bal Diwas’ is not merely a day of remembrance, but an occasion for nation-building and for imparting the message of courage, sacrifice and devotion to faith to coming generations.

About the ninth Sikh Guru Tegh Bahadur, Shah said he was a universal symbol of supreme sacrifice.

The courage and valour with which Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji confronted injustice are a source of inspiration for every Indian.

He said when the Kashmiri Pandits approached Guru Tegh Bahadur, he challenged the tyrannical Mughals and sacrificed everything for the sake of faith.

During the programme, Shah released a coffee table book based on the saga of sacrifice of the Sahibzadas and the Vision Document 2047 prepared by the Haryana government.

In addition, he also distributed appointment letters to family members of those killed in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots.

Shah praised Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini and said that providing justice, compensation and employment to the Sikh families affected by the 1984 riots and ensuring dignified employment to them after decades reflects the firm commitment of the state government.

The Union home minister said the Sikh community has always stood at the forefront in defending the nation, serving humanity and making sacrifices in times of crisis.

Shah and Saini also visited an exhibition dedicated to the sacrifice of the Sahibzadas.

Greater Kashmir

President Murmu, PM Modi extend greetings, best wishes on Christmas

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President Murmu, PM Modi extend greetings, best wishes on Christmas

New Delhi, Dec 25: President Droupadi Murmu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended warm greetings and best wishes to the nation on the occasion of Christmas, highlighting the festival’s message of love, compassion, peace and harmony.

President Murmu took to social media ‘X’ and said, “MERRY CHRISTMAS. On this auspicious occasion of Christmas, I extend my heartiest greetings and best wishes to all citizens, especially brothers and sisters of the Christian community.”

“Christmas, the festival of joy enthusiasm, conveys the message of love and compassion. It reminds us of the sacrifice made by Lord Jesus Christ for the welfare of humanity. This sacred occasion inspires us to further strengthen the values of peace, harmony, equality, and service in the society,” the President added.

She also urged people to resolve to follow the path shown by Jesus Christ and work towards building a society that promotes kindness and mutual harmony.

“Let us resolve to follow the path shown by Jesus Christ and work towards building a society that promotes kindness and mutual harmony,” the President said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his wishes through the social media platform X.

Extending greetings to citizens, especially members of the Christian community, the Prime Minister said, “Wishing everyone a joyous Christmas filled with peace, compassion and hope. May the teachings of Jesus Christ strengthen harmony in our society.”

Christmas is one of the most cherished festivals across the world and is celebrated with love, joy and togetherness. The festival brings families closer, inspires acts of kindness and generosity, and reminds people of the true spirit of giving. From sharing Christmas greetings and decorating trees to participating in community gatherings, the celebrations reflect a spirit of unity that transcends cultural and religious boundaries.

Observed every year on December 25, Christmas marks the birth anniversary of Jesus Christ and is associated with themes of hope, peace, forgiveness and love. While it is primarily a Christian religious festival, its universal message has made it a global celebration embraced by people from diverse backgrounds.

Christmas reflects a blend of Christian beliefs and ancient winter traditions. Although the Bible does not specify the exact date of Jesus’ birth, early Christians chose December 25 to align with existing winter festivals. In ancient Rome, celebrations such as Saturnalia were held around the winter solstice, featuring feasting, gift-giving and joyful gatherings.

By the 4th century, Christmas was formally recognised as a Christian festival. As it spread across Europe and later to other parts of the world, local customs merged with religious practices. Traditions like decorating evergreen trees, exchanging gifts, singing carols and celebrating with family gradually became integral to Christmas festivities.

Today, Christmas is celebrated not only as a religious occasion but also as a cultural festival that promotes values of love, peace, generosity and togetherness across communities worldwide.

Greater Kashmir

Crude bomb explosion kills one in Bangladesh amid deepening crisis

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Crude bomb explosion kills one in Bangladesh amid deepening crisis

Dhaka, Dec 25: A man was killed after a crude explosive was hurled from a flyover in the Mogbazar area of the Bangladeshi capital, police officials said, triggering panic in the busy locality, according to local media reports.

The explosion took place on Wednesday evening beneath the flyover in front of the Moghbazar Freedom Fighters’ Memorial, an area that usually witnesses heavy public movement.

According to eyewitnesses, an explosive device was thrown from the top of the flyover and detonated on the road below, critically injuring the victim. He was later identified by his relatives as a man named Siam, who succumbed to his injuries shortly after the blast.

“We gather that someone threw the cocktail bomb from the flyover, which fell on the victim’s head and burst. It blew up his head. We are investigating who did this,” a police official said, adding that efforts are underway to identify and trace those involved in the attack.

Family members of the deceased said Siam worked at a private factory and happened to be in the area at the time of the explosion. His identity was not immediately confirmed after the incident and was later established by relatives who arrived at the spot.

Soon after the blast, police cordoned off the area as fear and confusion spread among locals. The attackers fled the scene immediately after throwing the explosive, officials said.

Masud Alam, Deputy Commissioner of the Ramna Division of the Dhaka Metropolitan Police, said initial findings indicate that the bomb was thrown from the flyover. “The motive has not yet been confirmed,” he said, adding that a detailed investigation has been initiated to determine the circumstances behind the attack.

So far, no group has claimed responsibility for the incident.

Bangladesh has been witnessing a series of violent incidents following the killing of radical Islamist leader Sharif Osman Hadi, who was shot by unidentified assailants on December 12 and later died on December 18. His death sparked widespread unrest across the country.

Following Hadi’s killing, several violent episodes were reported nationwide, with attacks targeting media houses, political and cultural establishments, as well as diplomatic missions, further destabilising the security situation.

Amid the escalating political volatility, Sharif Omar Hadi, the brother of the slain leader, has accused a vested group within the Muhammad Yunus-led interim government of orchestrating his brother’s killing in an attempt to derail the national elections scheduled for February 2026.

Addressing a programme organised by Inqilab Moncho outside the National Museum in Dhaka on Tuesday, Omar Hadi openly blamed the interim government.

“It is you who had Osman Hadi killed, and now you are trying to foil the election by using this as an issue,” he said while slamming the authorities.

He further said that his brother had supported holding the national elections by February and urged the Bangladeshi authorities not to disrupt the electoral atmosphere.

According to the country’s leading daily, The Daily Star, Omar Hadi called for swift justice in the case.

“Ensure a speedy trial of the killers so the election environment is not harmed. The government has failed to show us any visible progress. If justice for Osman Hadi is not delivered, you too will be compelled to flee Bangladesh one day,” he warned.

Meanwhile, Inqilab Moncho Member Secretary Abdullah Al Jaber, speaking at the same rally, reiterated the group’s 30-working-day ultimatum to the interim government to identify and arrest those responsible for Sharif Osman Hadi’s killing. The ultimatum was first announced in a press statement earlier this week.

Greater Kashmir

Over 3,000 solar rooftops installed in Srinagar under PM Surya Ghar scheme

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Over 3,000 solar rooftops installed in Srinagar under PM Surya Ghar scheme

Srinagar, Dec 24: More than 3,000 solar rooftop systems have been installed across Srinagar district under the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, officials said.

The progress of the centrally sponsored scheme was reviewed by Deputy Commissioner Srinagar Akshay Labroo, who is also the Chairman of the Monitoring and Management Committee of the scheme, during a meeting held at the DC Office Complex here.

The meeting was attended by Chief Planning Officer Fayaz Ahmad Dar, Executive Engineers of Kashmir Power Distribution Corporation Limited (KPDCL), the Lead District Manager (Banks), KPDCL engineers and empanelled vendors implementing the scheme. Vendors presented team-wise appraisals of ongoing installation work and the current status of implementation.

During the review, the Deputy Commissioner took a detailed assessment of division-wise and team-wise performance across all four electric divisions of Srinagar, focusing on targets achieved, applications received, and installations completed.

Emphasising timely implementation, the DC directed all stakeholders to reach eligible households within fixed timelines so that consumers can fully benefit from the scheme. He stressed the need for enhanced public awareness, faster banking facilitation and timely installation of rooftop systems to avoid delays in the delivery of benefits.

Labroo appreciated teams showing good performance while taking note of slow progress in some areas, directing underperforming teams to improve efficiency and pace to meet prescribed targets.

Officials informed the meeting that installations under the scheme are steadily increasing, reflecting growing public response to rooftop solar adoption in the district.

Greater Kashmir

Army JCO killed in Samba firing incident

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Army JCO killed in Samba firing incident

Jammu, Dec 24: A Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) of the Indian Army Wednesday succumbed to gunshot injuries sustained during a firing incident, while on duty, inside Bari Brahmana military camp in Samba district.

An army spokesperson, while ruling out any terror angle, said that the incident occurred late Tuesday night wherein the JCO Subedar Surjeet Singh sustained a gunshot wound while he was on operational duty.

“Unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries in the line of duty. Investigation was underway in the incident,” the spokesperson said.

Later, the Rising Star Corps of the Army, on its official ‘X’ handle, paid a solemn tribute, while extending solidarity with the bereaved family in the hour of grief and assuring unwavering support.

“Rising Star Corps pays solemn tribute to braveheart Subedar Surjeet Singh, who made the supreme sacrifice while on operational duty in Jammu. The Indian Army stands firmly with the bereaved family in this hour of grief and assures unwavering support,” Rising Star Corps posted.

 

 

Greater Kashmir

Kashmir’s lone Chest Diseases Hospital gasps for breath

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Kashmir’s lone Chest Diseases Hospital gasps for breath

Srinagar, Dec 24: Patients from across Kashmir, solely dependent on the Government Chest Diseases (CD) Hospital for treatment of their ailments, endure severe hardships due to crumbling infrastructure reminiscent of early 20th-century sanatoriums and a critical shortage of functional medical equipment.

The pathetic condition of CD Hospital, an associated hospital of Government Medical College Srinagar and the sole specialised facility of its kind in Kashmir, is, however, a more urgent one. Known as Drugjan Hospital among locals, it was established in 1850 AD, during British rule, as a sanatorium for tuberculosis patients by Christian medical missionaries. The hospital, located in Dalgate and affiliated with the Government Medical College Srinagar, has long been criticised for its antiquated facilities that fail to meet modern healthcare standards. It was built in an era when tuberculosis sanatoriums emphasised isolation and fresh air over technological integration.

The current structure lacks essential accessibility features such as ramps, spacious wards, and adequate outpatient areas. Patients with respiratory issues, many of whom rely on wheelchairs, or are sick and need stretchers, or have other mobility challenges have to be lifted by a group of attendants to move up the steep stairs or navigate uneven pathways.

Adding the proverbial insult to the injury, there is a dire equipment crisis at the hospital. A recent internal communication at GMC Srinagar reveals that nearly all bronchoscopes and specialised scopes in the operating theatre are non-functional. Only two models remain, limiting the scope of procedures currently available. The limited tools are insufficient for the hospital’s caseload, reveals the communiqué. Critically, both Endobronchial Ultrasound (EBUS) scopes, models BF-UC180F, have been lying defunct for nearly two years, causing a complete halt in EBUS procedures that are critical for diagnosing and treating lung conditions like cancer and infections.

In addition, the overcrowded waiting areas, insufficient parking, and crammed wards create an urgent need for a revamp.

J&K Health and Medical Education Minister Sakina Itoo said a “long-term and sustainable solution” to the deficiencies at this facility was being looked into. The Health Minister said that many options were being explored for addressing “the issue of CD Hospital,” but none had yet been finalised due to constraints at all possible relocation areas.

“We have to ensure that what we decide for this hospital makes it fit to stand the needs of expansion for another century. It must have a possibility for state-of-the-art equipment installation and for other needs of a tertiary-care hospital,” she said. She added that the equipment needs of the institutes were being decided after examining the requisitions and records. “We are ready to augment equipment, wherever there is a need,” she said.

Greater Kashmir

Three killed, including two police officers, in Moscow blast

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Three killed, including two police officers, in Moscow blast

New Delhi, Dec 24: Three people, including two police officers, were killed in an explosion in Moscow, Russian authorities said, reports BBC. According to Russia’s Investigative Committee, two traffic police officers noticed a “suspicious individual” near a police vehicle on Yeletskaya Street.

When the officers approached the person to detain him, an explosive device was detonated.

The two officers later died from their injuries, along with another person who was standing nearby, officials said. The explosion occurred close to the area where a senior Russian military officer, Lt Gen Fanil Sarvarov, was killed in a car bombing earlier this week. He died after an explosive device planted under a vehicle was detonated in the capital on Monday.

 

Greater Kashmir

Govt hikes passenger fare by 18%, transporters welcome decision

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Govt hikes passenger fare by 18%, transporters welcome decision

Jammu, Dec 24: Jammu and Kashmir government, while conceding to the demands of transporters, has approved 18 percent fare hike across all categories of passenger vehicles operating in the Union Territory.

The revised fares will come into effect from January 1, 2026.

The decision has been widely welcomed by the transporters as the hike has been announced after the hectic deliberations with their (transporters’) representatives in a high-level meeting of the Fare Revision Committee (FRC), chaired by Principal Secretary Finance, Santosh D Vaidya at Civil Secretariat on December 23.

The meeting, aimed at deliberating upon the issue of revision of passenger transport fares across the Union Territory, was attended by Secretary Transport, Avny Lavasa; Acting Transport Commissioner, J&K, Anju Gupta; Managing Director JKRTC Abdul Rashid War; representative of Headquarters Northern Command (C/o 56 APO);  Regional Transport Officer, Kashmir; Regional Transport Officer, Jammu, Additional Secretary GAD; members of the Committee, including representatives of various transporters’ associations of the Union Territory.

During the meeting, the representatives of the transporters submitted a proposal seeking a hike of 40 percent in passenger fares, citing a substantial increase in operational costs.

The Committee held a detailed and threadbare discussion on the matter, taking into account multiple factors such as the sharp rise in the cost of spare parts, fuel-related expenses, taxes, maintenance costs, and other operational inputs.

A comprehensive cost analysis exercise was also examined during the deliberations.

While acknowledging the genuine concerns raised by the transporters, the Committee also carefully considered the socio-economic impact of fare revision on the general public, with particular emphasis on ensuring that the common man was not subjected to an undue financial burden.

After extensive deliberations and consensus among all stakeholders, it was unanimously decided that an 18 percent increase in passenger fares would be implemented across all categories of passenger vehicles operating in the Union Territory.

“The decision reflects a balanced approach aimed at safeguarding the sustainability of the transport sector while simultaneously protecting the interests of commuters,” it was stated by the government representatives, following the meeting.

From the transporters’ representatives, prominent persons present during the meeting included All J&K Transport Welfare Association chairman Karan Wazir, Vijay Singh Chib, Mohd Yousuf, Bharat Bhushan Sharma, Mohd Latif, Ghulam Rasool, Sanjeev Choudhary, Vijay Dogra, Parvinder Singh, Pankaj Verma, Kuldeep Singh, Gurdeep Singh and Labh Singh.

On Wednesday, in a press conference, J&K Transport Welfare Association president Devinder Chowdhary extended gratitude to the government, particularly the Principal Secretary Finance, Santosh D Vaidya and Secretary Transport, Avny Lavasa for approving an increase in passenger fare.

“We had asked for a 35 percent hike as fares were not hiked during the past five years and our cost of operation also amounted to 35 percent. However, the government convinced us for an 18 percent hike while pleading the case of the general public. We have been promised that a proposal for yearly hike in passenger fare too will be moved,” Chowdhary said.

 

 

Greater Kashmir

Downtown Heroes FC leaves to Delhi for Reliance Foundation Development League

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Downtown Heroes FC leaves to Delhi for Reliance Foundation Development League

Srinagar, Dec 24: Downtown Heroes FC’s Development Team departed for Delhi to participate in the Reliance Foundation Development League, marking the club’s maiden appearance in the prestigious national youth competition aimed at identifying and nurturing emerging football talent.

As per a statement isused on Wednesday, this landmark participation marks a proud moment for the club and for football in the region, as young talents from Downtown Heroes FC prepare to test themselves against the best emerging players from across the country. The Development League serves as a vital platform for nurturing elite youth talent and bridging the gap between grassroots football and professional football.

Extending his best wishes, Club Chairman Irfan Shahmiri said,

“Best of luck to our Development Team for this important tour. This is just the beginning. Many more such exposure tours and opportunities will come in the future as we remain committed to the growth and development of young footballers.”

Carrying dreams on their shoulders and the club badge on their chests, the Heroes head into the competition with determination, discipline, and belief. For these young players, this journey is more than a tournament—it is a stepping stone toward bigger opportunities in Indian football.

“This is where young dreams meet big football.”

Greater Kashmir

Critic turns admirer of former education minister for ‘reformative decisions’

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Critic turns admirer of former education minister for ‘reformative decisions’

Srinagar, Dec 24: In a rare reversal of political judgment, a critic of former education minister of J&K, Naeem Akhtar has now turned as his admirer while acknowledging his reformative decisions in the education sector of Jammu and Kashmir.

The former education minister Naeem Akhtar in the PDP led government was criticised for his “rigid” and “controversial” decisions in the education department from 2015 to 2017. He faced opposition from the trade union leaders in the education department as well.

However, one of his critics, Mir Rafqat (Rafqat Sonawari) who is a young Political activist from Sonawari area of Bandipora and has served a Sarpanch in the past has now acknowledged that the decisions taken by the former education minister were based on principles.

He said the decisions were rooted in long-term institutional reform rather than political convenience while the pressure ultimately derailed measures aimed at accountability, quality education, and equitable opportunities for students in government-run schools. “For a long time, I counted myself among the harshest critics of former Education Minister Naeem Akhtar. I wrote not dozens but hundreds, perhaps thousands of tweets and Facebook posts against him,” Rafqat said.

He said during that time, the minister’s decisions appeared rigid, uncompromising, and disconnected from popular expectations. “Today, with the passage of time and on the basis of personal experience, I feel compelled to revisit and reassess that judgment. Naeem Akhtar firmly believed that J&K’s education system required structural reforms rather than cosmetic measures, particularly in government schools,” he said. He said his reassessment was not merely as a political observer, but as a parent of two children with a modest income, and as a former Sarpanch who has closely observed the functioning of government schools at the grassroots level. “Seen from this vantage point, many of the decisions taken by Naeem Akhtar during his short tenure now appear principled, reform-oriented, and far-sighted,” he said. He said the former education minister was focused on accountability, quality, and institutional discipline. “Such an approach invited resistance in a system long accustomed to convenience, patronage, and political interference,” he said.

Notably, the concept of rationalisation of teaching staff, de-walling of schools and introduction of Super-50 and winter tutorials were started and remained a success story of the government during that time. “In Bandipora district a school functioned for years with four teachers for just six students. Despite sustained political and local pressure, Naeem Akhtar decided to amalgamate the school with a nearby institution to ensure better utilization of resources and improved academic standards,” Rafqat recalled.

“Equally significant was his firm stand against politically motivated transfers in the education department. Despite pressure from within his own party, he refused to allow the education sector to become a transfer mafia and chose institutional integrity over political convenience,” he said. During the tenure of Naeem Akhtar, around 2400 schools were clubbed for meager or zero enrollment which resulted in surplus staff whose services were utilised in schools on a requirement basis. It was during his tenure that “ghost schools”- the educational institutions which had students enrolled only on papers but were physically taking classes in private schools.

“On a personal note, I once approached him seeking a transfer for my sister from Ganderbal to Bandipora district. He categorically refused. At the time, the decision felt disappointing. Today, I see it as a clear reflection of his commitment to principles and institutional fairness,” Rafqat recalls. Rafqat said that for personal benefits and short-term interests, some people, party workers, legislators, and leaders alike rose in opposition to Naeem Akhtar. “Today, as an individual and as a parent of two children, I have reached the conclusion that every major decision taken by him was aimed at safeguarding the interests of the middle and economically weaker sections of society, especially those dependent on government schools,” Rafqat said. “As a former Sarpanch, I acknowledge that government schools suffer from numerous loopholes ranging from lack of accountability to inefficient deployment of resources. Having witnessed these shortcomings firsthand, it is fair to say that Naeem Akhtar was uniquely positioned to address them,” he said. He said that Naeem Akhtar considered education as a sector where compromise causes irreversible damage. “He chose principles over pressure, reform over convenience, and institutions over individuals,” he said.

 

Greater Kashmir

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