Srinagar, July 3: Apni Party President Syed Mohammad Altaf Bukhari on Friday blamed the government for “further increasing unemployment” by outsourcing jobs and “undermining democracy and democratic institutions by centralising power in the hands of one man at the helm of the government.”

He made these remarks while addressing workers’ conventions at Khanabal and Achabal in south Kashmir today.

During his address at the events, Altaf Bukhari said, “On the one hand, the government promised the youth employment opportunities, but on the other hand, they snatched away those very opportunities through the outsourcing of jobs. Instead of reducing unemployment, they have only made it worse.”

He further alleged that the government had failed to launch any employment-generating projects even after being in power for more than twenty months. “They have not initiated a single project so far to generate employment opportunities for the youth,” he said.

Bukhari also accused the ruling National Conference of undermining democratic institutions by centralising authority after assuming office.

“In a democracy, elections are meant to empower the people. However, after coming to power, the National Conference concentrated authority in the hands of a single individual. This has weakened grassroots democracy and democratic institutions,” he said.

He further alleged that democratic values had been replaced by a culture of flattery. “Today, we have the rule of flatterers rather than the rule of democratic principles. Apni Party will continue its struggle against such undemocratic practices and work to ensure that the benefits of democracy reach the people. We remain committed to strengthening grassroots democratic institutions and restoring power to the people,” Bukhari added.

He strongly criticised  the government over what he described as its failure to provide effective governance and its inability to fulfil the promises it made during the election campaign.

He said, “the government has failed to deliver on the commitments it made to the people, who had given it a massive mandate after believing its assurances and election promises.”

He said, “One of the promises the ruling NC made to the people during the 2024 election campaign was that it would restore the abrogated Article 370. Among its other promises was to provide one lakh jobs for unemployed youth, with an assurance that these jobs would be given soon after it assumes office.”

He added, “Now, more than 20 months later, we hear that the government has outsourced thousands of jobs, which amounts to a grave injustice to unemployed youth. There is a long list of promises that the NC made only to lure voters and secure their votes, but those promises have remained unfulfilled.”

Addressing the Achabal gathering, Bukhari assured party workers that the Apni Party would soon launch a public outreach campaign in the area to strengthen its presence and expand its grassroots base.

At Khanabal, he expressed gratitude to the party’s workers for remaining steadfast and loyal through the party’s ups and downs since its establishment.

Urging people to get themselves rid of the traditional political parties, Bukhari said, “What have these family-run parties given you, other than exploiting your mandate to build political empires for themselves? The people of South Kashmir entrusted all seven seats to the ruling NC–Congress alliance, yet not a single representative from the region was considered worthy of a ministerial portfolio. This is how the leaders of these traditional parties reward the people and honour their mandate once they secure victory.”

He further said, “The NC’s victory in the elections was largely an accidental one, driven by the unique circumstances prevailing at the time. Many people believed the party would genuinely strive to restore the abrogated Article 370. They also trusted its promises of providing 200 units of free electricity, free gas cylinders, an additional ration quota, and several other welfare measures announced by NC leaders during their election campaign.”

“But now this government stands completely exposed for its failure to provide effective governance and fulfill the promises it made to the people,” he added.

The party leaders who also addressed the workers’ conventions held at Khanabal and Achabal included the party’s General Secretary, Rafi Ahmad Mir; Additional General Secretary, Hilal Ahmad Shah; Chief Coordinator and District President of Kulgam, Abdul Majeed Padder; District President of Anantnag, Mufti Sarwar; and others.

Besides these leaders, those who were present at both or either of the events included Provincial Secretary Kashmir, Nazir Ahmad Wani (Dilgami); Constituency In-charge, Anantnag West, Sheikh Muzaffar; Constituency In-charge, Shangus, M.K. Yogi; In-charge, Dooru, Bashir Ahmad Bragami; Hilal Ahmad Lone; Hafiza Jee; and others.

Pahalgam, July 3: Additional Chief Secretary ( ACS), Jal Shakti Department, Shaleen Kabra on Friday reviewed water supply infrastructure and flood protection measures along the Pahalgam axis ahead of the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra, directing officials to ensure uninterrupted drinking water supply and strengthen safety arrangements for pilgrims.

During the inspection, Kabra visited Chandanwari, Pissu Top, Zojibal, Sheshnag, Mahagunas Top, Poshpathri, Panjtarni, the Holy Cave and Baltal to assess the operational readiness of Jal Shakti installations and review the progress of ongoing works.

Officials informed him that the department has completed nine service reservoirs, including a one lakh-gallon reservoir at the Holy Cave, a 0.10 lakh-gallon reservoir at Mahagunas Top and seven 0.30 lakh-gallon reservoirs at other locations.

Five store sheds-cum-staff accommodations and a lift station at Mahagunas Top have also been completed to strengthen water supply infrastructure along the route.

The ACC also reviewed ongoing projects, including construction of safety storage tanks for fire and emergency use, a service reservoir at Panjtarni, a dedicated water supply main for Nunwan Base Camp and store sheds-cum-operator quarters at Panjtarni and Chandanwari.

He expressed satisfaction over the installation of reverse osmosis (RO) plants and provision of water supply connections to all toilet units along the yatra route.

Kabra directed the engineering wing to ensure that pipelines, pumping stations and distribution networks remain fully operational and resilient to adverse weather conditions to maintain uninterrupted drinking water supply throughout the pilgrimage.

Reviewing flood protection works near the Holy Cave, he stressed timely completion and strengthening of the flood channel to minimise the risk of flash floods and enhance pilgrim safety.
Emphasising public health, the Additional Chief Secretary instructed officials to regularly monitor drinking water quality using field testing kits at langar sites, holding areas and base camps. He also directed field staff to maintain round-the-clock vigilance, adequate backup machinery and contingency plans for immediate restoration of services in the event of any disruption.

Interacting with officers and field functionaries, Kabra underscored the importance of proactive maintenance, continuous monitoring and close coordination to ensure seamless delivery of essential services during the annual pilgrimage.

Srinagar, July 03: Mirwaiz-e-Kashmir Dr. Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq, while addressing the Friday congregation at the historic Central Jama Masjid Srinagar, today urged individuals, society and especially the media to uphold responsibility, restraint and moral accountability in public conduct.

Referring to the Hadith of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, “Beware, every one of you is a guardian/shepherd, and every one of you will be questioned about those under his care,” Mirwaiz said that every individual carries a responsibility for which they will be answerable. He said this applies to parents, teachers, traders, leaders, public figures and also to the media, which plays a major role in shaping public opinion.

Mirwaiz said that media is an important pillar of society, and social media today has assumed great significance. When used with wisdom and responsibility, it informs and strengthens society. However, when used only to gain followers, viewership or TRP, without considering its impact, it can cause serious harm.

Referring to a recent viral video in which a minor child was asked about heat and school holidays, and whose impolite response was aired and widely shared, Mirwaiz expressed concern over such content. He said society must ask whether minor children should be exposed to social media in this manner and used for public reactions without understanding the consequences.

Mirwaiz said children are the future, and the questions asked of them and the content they are exposed to shape their thinking. He said children cannot be treated as tools for entertainment, publicity or social media engagement.

He stressed that responsible media and social media require sensitivity and accountability. Those who hold cameras and microphones must remember that they carry a responsibility before society and before Allah.

Mirwaiz appealed to media persons, content creators and social media users to act with care, restraint and responsibility. He said that in today’s overwhelming social media environment, the kind of society we become will depend greatly on what we watch, like and share. He urged people to share content with wisdom and discretion, and said public discourse, even in disagreement, should reflect maturity, respect and moral responsibility, so that children have a good example before them.

Srinagar, July 03: Bharti Airtel today announced the expansion of its mobile network along the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage, further strengthening connectivity for pilgrims, security personnel and local authorities in the region.

By deploying network sites at Chandanwari, Pissu Top, and Betaab Valley, Airtel has established network coverage along the crucial Pahalgam route, in addition to its existing presence at Baltal, thus providing uninterrupted connectivity leading up to the holy Amarnath cave shrine.

The deployment was carried out in close coordination with the relevant government authorities and local administration to strengthen communications infrastructure during the Yatra. The enhanced coverage will provide reliable voice and data connectivity, support emergency communication, and improve digital access for the millions of pilgrims. 

“At Airtel, we remain committed to connecting people, communities, and essential services, even in some of the most challenging terrains,” said Vikram RS, COO – Jammu and Kashmir, Bharti Airtel.

“The expansion of our network across both the Pahalgam and Baltal routes for the Amarnath Yatra reflects our continued investment in Jammu & Kashmir and our commitment to ensuring that pilgrims, security personnel, and authorities remain reliably connected throughout this important annual pilgrimage.” he added.

Airtel’s ongoing expansion in such challenging environments reflects its dedication to bridging the connectivity gap and powering India’s digital transformation.

Srinagar, July 3: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged devotees undertaking the annual Amarnath Yatra to support the local economy by spending at least 10 per cent of their travel expenses on products made in Jammu and Kashmir, saying the move would strengthen the livelihoods of local families and youth.

In a message addressed to Amarnath pilgrims, Modi appealed to devotees to embrace the spirit of “Vocal for Local” while undertaking the pilgrimage. “Let us spend at least 10 percent of our travel expenses on purchasing local products. This will strengthen the livelihoods of families and youth in Jammu and Kashmir,” the Prime Minister wrote.

The Prime Minister also praised the hospitality of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, saying the pilgrimage reflected the warmth and service-mindedness of local residents. “This pilgrimage to Baba Barfani’s shrine also reflects the hospitality of Jammu and Kashmir and the dedication of the local people towards visiting devotees.”

He noted that residents along the pilgrimage route played an important role in welcoming and assisting pilgrims. “At every stage of the Yatra, thousands of local residents warmly welcome the pilgrims. Pony operators, pithoo (porters), shopkeepers, and other people associated with the pilgrimage route selflessly serve the pilgrims who come from different parts of the country. This spirit of service is a living expression of our Sanatan culture and the ideal of ‘Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah’ (May all be happy).”

Calling participation in the Amarnath Yatra “a great blessing,” Modi said the annual pilgrimage was one of the enduring traditions of India’s spiritual heritage. “Participating in the sacred Amarnath Yatra in Jammu and Kashmir is, in itself, a great blessing.”

He added that devotees from across India and the world undertook the pilgrimage each year with a shared sense of faith.”Every year, lakhs of devotees who follow Sanatan culture from across the world come to Jammu and Kashmir to undertake this pilgrimage. People from different states, speaking different languages and following diverse traditions, complete this journey with the shared resolve of having the darshan of Lord Mahadev.”

The Prime Minister said the pilgrimage demonstrated “the remarkable unity in India’s diversity” and expressed confidence that this year’s Yatra would become “a grand celebration of faith in Sanatan Dharma, India’s cultural unity, and the tradition of selfless service.”

Along with his appeal to support local businesses, Modi asked pilgrims to observe five pledges during the Yatra. He urged them to maintain cleanliness along the pilgrimage route, strictly follow administrative and security advisories, spend on local products, gift a sapling to siblings on the concluding day of the Yatra coinciding with Raksha Bandhan as part of the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign, and remain committed to the spirit of “Nation First” throughout the year.

The Prime Minister also commended the efforts of the agencies involved in organising the pilgrimage. “For many decades, the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board and the Jammu and Kashmir Government have managed this Yatra with great efficiency and a spirit of service.”

He expressed appreciation for the personnel ensuring the smooth conduct of the pilgrimage. “I express my heartfelt appreciation to every member of the Indian Army, CRPF, Jammu and Kashmir Police, ITBP, BSF, NDRF, healthcare workers, doctors, sanitation workers, administrative officials, and volunteers engaged in serving the pilgrims.”

Modi prayed for the safety and well-being of all devotees. “May your pilgrimage be safe, auspicious, and filled with renewed energy, fresh inspiration, and spiritual strength.”

Srinagar, Jul 03: Six CRPF personnel were injured after a vehicle they were travelling in met with an accident near the Sonamarg tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ganderbal district on Friday, officials said.

A CRPF vehicle skidded off the road near the Sonamarg tunnel on the Srinagar-Leh National Highway in the central Kashmir district, the officials said, adding that six CRPF personnel were injured in the accident.

The injured personnel were provided first aid on the spot and later shifted to a nearby CRPF camp at Gund for further treatment, the officials added.