Washington: As the United States prepares to mark the 250th anniversary of its independence next month, the Trump administration is facing a series of political and legal challenges, from questions over anniversary celebrations in Washington to growing controversy surrounding immigration detention policies and key Senate races ahead of the midterm elections. Speaking on CNN’s “State of the Union” on Sunday, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum defended the administration’s Freedom 250 initiative, which is helping organise events tied to the country’s semiquincentennial celebrations. “Freedom 250 and the celebration of the 250th is a nonpartisan event,” Burgum said, responding to criticism after several musical artists withdrew from planned performances, saying they believed they had signed up for a nonpartisan celebration. Questions have emerged over private funding supporting some celebrations. Asked whether donor information should be disclosed, Burgum said, “I think transparency is always a good thing,” but added that such decisions rested with the organisation itself. The administration has paired the anniversary campaign with an ambitious effort to renovate public spaces and monuments across Washington. Burgum said crews have restored fountains, repaired monuments and removed graffiti from historic sites ahead of the celebrations. “We have removed over 1,000 graffiti sites,” he said. He also defended expedited contracting procedures used for some projects, including work on the Reflecting Pool near the Lincoln Memorial, arguing that accelerated timelines were necessary to complete the work before July festivities. The secretary also criticised a recent court ruling involving the Kennedy Centre, where a judge challenged aspects of the administration’s plans involving the institution. Burgum argued that many federal landmarks and facilities had suffered from years of deferred maintenance and said President Donald Trump was focused on restoring them ahead of the anniversary. While the administration highlighted preparations for national celebrations, immigration issues dominated another major portion of Sunday’s political discussion. Sen. Andy Kim, a New Jersey Democrat, warned that tensions surrounding the Delaney Hall immigration detention facility had reached a dangerous level after days of protests and clashes that prompted local officials to impose a curfew around the site. “We’re seeing just a heightened level of danger,” Kim said. The senator said concerns remained focused on conditions inside the facility, where attorneys representing detainees have alleged unsafe conditions and reported a hunger strike by some detainees. “It’s really about the detainees, about the really unsafe conditions that we’re seeing within Delaney Hall,” Kim said. Kim said families and lawyers had struggled to gain access to detainees and called for greater medical support and independent oversight. When asked about a proposal by Homeland Security officials to reduce customs staffing at airports in sanctuary states, Kim criticised the idea, saying it would create economic disruption and complicate international travel. “It would do so much economic damage,” he said. The political backdrop to both controversies is an increasingly intense battle for control of Congress in next year’s midterm elections. Democrats are seeking to expand the Senate map, including in states such as Maine, where Democratic candidate Graham Platner has come under scrutiny following reports about personal conduct issues that surfaced during his campaign. –IANS int/lkj/uk
Govt creating durable, modern infrastructure: Dy CM
Inaugurates double-lane Bridge at Greater Kailash
JAMMU: Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary Sunday inaugurated the newly constructed double-lane bridge over the Nallah at Greater Kailash in Jammu.
The Deputy Chief Minister said that the government is deeply focused on creating robust surface connectivity across Jammu and Kashmir. He added that the inauguration of the bridge marks a significant step towards strengthening the urban connectivity and improving the public infrastructure in the region.
The newly constructed bridge is expected to provide seamless connectivity, ease traffic movement and enhance convenience for the residents of Greater Kailash and adjoining areas. The project has been executed to improve accessibility and support the growing transportation needs of the locality.
Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Chief Minister said that the government is working under a well-knit system to ensure robust, inclusive and people-centric development across Jammu and Kashmir. He emphasized that strengthening the basic infrastructure remains a key priority for the government, as it plays a crucial role in improving the quality of life of the people and accelerating socio-economic growth.
“The government is creating durable and modern infrastructure that directly benefits the public. Projects like this bridge not only improve the connectivity but also contribute to the overall development of the region,” he asserted.
The Deputy Chief Minister also highlighted the government’s continued efforts towards upgrading the road networks, bridges and other essential public infrastructure to meet the aspirations of the people and facilitate balanced development across the Union Territory.
Chief Engineer, Roads and Buildings (R&B), along with other senior officers of the department, were present on the occasion. They briefed the Deputy Chief Minister about the technical aspects of the project and other ongoing infrastructure works in the area.
The local residents expressed satisfaction over the completion of the bridge and appreciated the government’s efforts in enhancing the civic infrastructure and public convenience.
Health, education, roads top Govt priorities: Speaker
Inaugurates NTPHC at Challyan
BUDGAM, MAY 31: In a major boost to the local healthcare infrastructure, Speaker Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Abdul Rahim Rather, Sunday formally inaugurated a New Type Primary Health Centre (NTPHC) at Challyan, Chrari-Sharief constituency.
The Speaker underscored that NTPHC is set to significantly augment the medical services in the area, bringing quality healthcare directly to the doorsteps of the local population.
Following the inauguration, the Speaker addressed a large public gathering, where he highlighted the government’s ongoing developmental achievements and welfare initiatives aimed at transforming the socio-economic landscape of the region.
Addressing the gathering, the Speaker emphasized that the primary focus of the administration remains the equitable development of all regions, with a special emphasis on ensuring easy access to essential amenities.
“The government is deeply committed to provide top-tier basic facilities to the public. Our core priority sectors like Health, Roads, Education, Power and Clean Drinking Water are receiving unprecedented focus. The inauguration of this NTPHC is a testament to our resolve to ensure that no citizen has to travel long distances for fundamental medical care,” the Speaker said.
Recalling establishment of this health centre in 1979-80, he said it reflected his commitment to work for the remote, under developed and underprivileged communities of the region.
“Today, I see infrastructure like roads, drinking water, healthcare, electricity, education has reached every nook and corner of this constituency and people are harping on the benefits of these facilities at their doorsteps”, he said.
He further elaborated on various ongoing government schemes and urged the public to actively participate and avail benefit of these initiatives. He assured the community that the government will continue to accelerate infrastructure projects to ensure comprehensive growth and improve the overall quality of life for the common citizens.
The event was attended by CMO Budgam, senior administrative officials, prominent citizens and representatives from the health department.
1684 candidates appear as BOPEE conducts PCET
SRINAGAR, MAY 31: The Jammu and Kashmir Board of Professional Entrance Examinations (J&K BOPEE) Sunday conducted the Common Entrance Test (CET) for B-Pharmacy and D-Pharmacy courses for the academic session 2026-27 at Jammu and Srinagar Centres.
The test was conducted at the University of Kashmir, Srinagar, in the Kashmir division and the Government College for Women, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu, in the Jammu division, with 1684 candidates appearing from across Jammu and Kashmir.
To ensure smooth conduct of the Entrance Test, adequate arrangements were made in collaboration with the respective institution/college administration and law enforcement agencies, under the guidance of Professor Minu Mahajan, Chairperson, J&K BOPEE.
The examination concluded without any untoward incidents or unfair means, under the supervision of staff from the host institutions.
The Chairperson, along with the Members, the Secretary, the Controller of Examinations and officials of the J&K BOPEE actively monitored conduct of the Common Entrance Test at both the Centres in Jammu and Srinagar. They thanked the staff members of the respective institutions and the staff deployed under the overall supervision of Deputy Commissioners in the respective District Headquarters for smooth conduct of the entrance test.
Preserve rich cultural, religious heritage: Dr Bilal
Attends ongoing Holy Adhikmas Kumbh at Mattan
ANANTNAG, MAY 31: Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag, Dr. Bilal Mohiuddin Bhat, Sunday visited Mattan and attended the ongoing Holy Adhikmas Kumbh 2026 alongside the representatives of Shri Martand Tirath Trust (SMTT) and a large congregation of devotees.
The Deputy Commissioner was accompanied by Assistant Commissioner Revenue (ACR) Tariq Ahmad Malik, Tehsildar Mattan, senior officers of line departments and other concerned officials.
Notably, the month-long religious congregation which commenced on May 17, is witnessing participation of devotees from different parts of the country. The pilgrims are visiting the revered place including the Holy Temple as well as the nearby Sacred River with enthusiasm and religious fervor to pay their obeisance and perform traditional rituals and prayers.
During the visit, the DC attended the celebrations and ceremoniously participated in the rituals alongside the devotees. Interacting with them, the DC stated that the place has long stood as a great symbol of brotherhood and communal harmony, defining the region’s shared heritage. He appreciated the spirit of unity among the people and urged everyone to continue preserving the rich cultural and religious heritage of the area.
On the occasion, the DC reviewed the arrangements and impressed upon the concerned departments to ensure all necessary facilities are provided to the devotees in a smooth and uninterrupted manner. He instructed that all efforts be made to facilitate devotees enabling them to undertake a safe and comfortable pilgrimage.
The DC observed that the Holy Adhikmas Kumbh is not only a significant religious occasion but also presents an apt opportunity to showcase the district’s hospitality so the pilgrims leave with pleasant and lasting memories. He stressed upon the officers to ensure that all arrangements remain functional and effective on the ground.
Reiterating district administration’s commitment for smooth conduct of the event, Dr. Bilal directed all departments to make sustained efforts, remain vigilant, address the grievances promptly and provide best possible facilities to the devotees during their stay. He urged officers to work in close coordination with the Shri Martand Tirath Trust and other stakeholders for the successful culmination of the Holy Adhikmas Kumbh.
The devotees expressed gratitude to the district administration for extending proper support during the holy days.
Ramesh Hangloo, others call on LG
SRINAGAR, MAY 31: Ramesh Hangloo, Founder and Managing Director, Radio Sharda called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, Sunday. He was accompanied by Avtar Jotshi and Bharat Raina.
Subsequently, various delegations including Gujjar Bakarwal Employees Association J&K-UT, led by Choudhary Imtiyaz Kataria; Mohammad Faheem Reshi, Chairman, Greater Shahr-e-Khaas, a social organisation, and representatives of We The Helping Hand Foundation, led by its Chairman Umer Wani, also called on the Lieutenant Governor.
Ensure foolproof security arrangements: IGP Jammu
Reviews SANJY-2026 preparedness in Kathua, Samba
KATHUA/SAMBA, MAY 31: To review security and facilitation arrangements for the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra (SANJY)-2026, IGP Jammu Zone Bhim Sen Tuti, accompanied by DIG JSK Range Shridhar Patil; DC Kathua Rajesh Sharma; SSP Kathua Mohita Sharma; SO to IGP Jammu SSP Rajinder Singh and other senior officers, conducted an extensive review of preparations in Kathua and Samba districts.
The IGP first visited Lakhanpur and inspected the Base Camp, Langar Points, Lodgement Centres and Reception Centres. Security deployment, CCTV coverage, access control measures, frisking arrangements, traffic management and pilgrim facilities were reviewed on the ground.
A comprehensive security review meeting on SANJY-2026 was later held at DPL Kathua. The meeting was attended by supervisory officers, including SP SOG Jammu, Addl. SP Kathua, SP Operations Upper Kathua, SP Ops Border Kandi Kathua, all SDPOs and SHOs of NHW Kathua. SSP Kathua Ms. Mohita Sharma, IPS gave a detailed presentation on security arrangements, surveillance measures, convoy management, QRT deployment and emergency response plans.
Addressing the officers, the IGP stressed maximum alertness, strict adherence to security protocols and professional conduct with pilgrims. The DIG JSK Range directed officers to regularly inspect Langars and lodgement centres and maintain close surveillance on suspicious elements.
The IGP subsequently reviewed arrangements in District Samba, where SSP Samba Anuj Kumar briefed him on the district’s preparedness for SANJY-2026. A security review meeting was also held, which was attended by DIG JSK Range, senior officers, all supervisory officers and SHOs of the district. The IGP emphasized close coordination among J&K Police, CAPFs, intelligence agencies and Punjab Police to ensure a safe, secure and smooth Yatra for all pilgrims.
During the review meetings in both districts, officers were directed to intensify drone surveillance for real-time monitoring and deploy Dog Squads for anti-sabotage checks at vital installations, Langars and lodgement centres. Emphasis was laid on strengthening surveillance and ensuring swift response capabilities.
Directions were also issued to strengthen security along the National Highway and border areas through round-the-clock domination, naka checking and area patrols. Officers were instructed to expedite tenant verification and census drives and enhance CCTV coverage at all important Yatra locations with 24×7 monitoring.
Nasha-Mukt J&K Abhiyaan: Drug awareness prog conducted in Pulwama
Enforcement activities carried out in Sopore
Srinagar: Continuing its sustained efforts under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan, J&K Police in Pulwama organised a drug awareness programme to educate participants about the harmful effects of substance abuse and the importance of building a drug-free society.
During the programme, participants were sensitized about the social, health, and legal consequences of drug addiction and were encouraged to play an active role in preventing drug abuse within their communities. The importance of community participation and timely sharing of information related to drug-related activities was also highlighted.
Police reiterates its commitment towards creating a drug-free society through sustained awareness initiatives and public outreach programmes under the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan.
Meanwhile, as part of the ongoing 100-Day Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan, J&K Police in Sopore carried out a series of enforcement and community outreach activities today to strengthen the fight against drug abuse and promote drug-free communities.
J&K Police conducted thorough inspections of chemist and druggist shops in Chankhan and Naseem Bagh areas falling within the jurisdiction of Police Station Tarzoo. The drive aimed to ensure strict compliance with the provisions of the Drugs & Cosmetics Act and prevent the illegal sale or diversion of psychotropic and habit-forming drugs. Sale records, prescriptions, and other relevant documents were scrutinized, while shop owners were sensitized about their legal responsibilities and the consequences of violations.
In continuation of the campaign, a village-level awareness programme was organized at Aalibagh, Hygam under the banner of the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan. The programme witnessed active participation from Numberdars, Chowkidars, Panchayat members, and other respected citizens of the area. During the programme, participants were sensitized about the social, health, and economic consequences of drug abuse. Community members were encouraged to remain vigilant, report suspicious activities, and support efforts aimed at counseling, rehabilitation, and reintegration of affected youth. The importance of keeping villages and local communities free from the menace of drugs was also emphasized.
Police remains committed to a two-pronged strategy under the 100-Day Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan—strict enforcement against drug peddlers and traffickers, coupled with sustained public awareness and community participation. The public has been urged to actively cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the collective effort to build a safer, healthier, and drug-free society.
Patnitop Marathon 2026 attracts over 800 runners across India
RAMBAN, MAY 31: 6th Edition of the Patnitop Marathon, attracting over 800 runners from more than 30 cities and 15 states across India commenced successfully at Patnitop.
The event was organized by IKA Sports & Events Pvt. Ltd, a company promoted by Ironman athlete and endurance sports entrepreneur Kapil Arora in collaboration with Patnitop Development Authority (PDA), Directorate of Tourism Jammu, District Administration Udhampur and Ramban.
The event has now established itself as Jammu & Kashmir’s largest multi category hill race, bringing together elite athletes, amateur runners, fitness enthusiasts, armed forces personnel, tourists and local participants amidst the breathtaking Himalayan landscape of Patnitop.
The marathon was organized in support of the Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, promoting a healthy, active and drug free lifestyle. Participants from across the country united to support the cause while experiencing one of India’s most scenic and challenging race routes.
The event was attended by the Deputy Commissioner Ramban Mohammad Alyas Khan, Chief Executive Officer, Patnitop Development Authority, Virender Kumar Manyal, SDM, Chenani, Ranjeet Singh, Deputy Director, Tourism Jammu, Pankaj Sasan, Assistant Director, Tourism, Mohd. Arif Lone, SDPO, Chenani Sukhvir Singh along with senior officials from the Health, Fire & Emergency, Police, Traffic and other line departments.
The marathon featured four race categories i.e. 50 KM Ultra Marathon, 21.1 KM Half Marathon, 10 KM Race and 5 KM Race. In addition, participants competed across five age-group categories i.e. 18–35 Years, 35–45 Years, 45–55 Years, 55–65 Years, 65 Years & above.
The structured age group categories encouraged wider participation and ensured fair competition among runners across different stages of life. One of the unique features of the Patnitop Marathon is its ability to cater to runners of all fitness levels through multiple race distances while simultaneously offering one of India’s most challenging hill ultra-marathons. This combination has helped establish the event as a premier destination race in North India.
The highlight of the event was the 50 KM Ultra Marathon, regarded as one of the most demanding and picturesque road ultra-marathons in India. The route commenced from outside the Youth Hostel at Patnitop and passed through the scenic mountain stretches of Kud, Nathatop and Sanasar Lake before returning to Patnitop, offering participants a grueling endurance challenge against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas.
The races commenced in the early hours of the morning, with the 50 KM Ultra Marathon flagging off at 4:30 AM from Patnitop. Runners navigated the challenging mountain terrain through Kud, Nathatop and Sanasar before returning to Patnitop. The Half Marathon, 10 KM Race and 5 KM Race followed at scheduled intervals, creating a vibrant sporting atmosphere throughout the day.
The event witnessed tremendous enthusiasm from runners and spectators alike, with participants travelling from over 30 cities and 15 states to experience the unique charm of running in the Himalayan hills. The marathon also generated significant tourism activity for the region, benefiting local hotels, restaurants, transport operators and small businesses.
The success of the 2026 edition was further strengthened through strategic partnerships with 10 running clubs from across India, helping expand the event’s national reach and participation. The marathon received strong support from several prominent running communities, including Jammu’s rapidly growing running groups MOBE Club and C9 Club, whose members actively participated in and promoted the event. These collaborations played an important role in attracting runners from different parts of the country and building a vibrant running community around the event.
Correct historical errors, take truth global: LG Sinha
Inaugurates third edition of Kashmir Lit Festival
SRINAGAR, MAY 30: Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha Saturday inaugurated the third edition of Kashmir Literature Festival in Srinagar. On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor urged writers on shaping positive discourse through fiction, non-fiction and other creative forms and inspire people because writer’s craft lives not only in words, but in the pulse of people.
Addressing a gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said that we must erase every trace of the colonial mindset and ensure that people abroad do not distort our history and present to serve their own narratives. He said it is the responsibility of writers to correct such errors and take the truth to global readers.
“We must repeatedly remind the world that when the Vedas were composed some 6,000 years ago, India was the center of the world’s economy, education, culture, and philosophy. For centuries, India was the engine of global civilization and culture. It laid the foundations for socio economic advancement across the world through its gift in science, mathematics, astronomy, and medicine,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He stated that there is an urgent need to restore history and convey its true form to every section of society so that India’s narrative is properly shaped. The Lieutenant Governor observed that our ancestors, since the Vedic age, recorded facts and transmitted knowledge with great accuracy, but for various reasons modern times saw India lose the habit of writing its own history.
“We failed to communicate our priceless traditions, culture, knowledge, and sciences and that’s why many people to claim that certain things came from other places or introduced by the invaders. These assertions are baseless,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor said that foreign historians have, sometimes deliberately, omitted India’s ancient discoveries and achievements in science, literature, art, and architecture.
“When India stood at the peak of scientific achievement, many countries showed almost no mention of science. The earliest references to science, mathematics, and astronomy in Persia and other places appear only in the eighth century, and even those owe much to India. Europe’s first Renaissance in the 12th century drew on India’s treasury of knowledge, science, culture, and art. Centuries before any other countries discovered invention and innovations, India had already established itself as a scientific civilization,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor said that India’s modernity has often led the world, with scientific contributions unmatched in history. He also said that writers should present creation of our nation’s great talents in simple, accessible language.
“India’s story is not only of the past but of the present. Despite centuries of subjugation and plunder, we have risen to become the world’s fourth largest economy, the fastest growing major economy for years, and by 2047 we aim for a fully developed nation. Today, pride and ownership of this heritage are awakening across society. The task is not self praise, but for respected writers and thinkers to build India’s new narrative on this strong foundation. They must remember that writers have the power to change civilizations,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
