Assures strict action against accused

BUDGAM, MAY 26: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Tuesday visited the family of the minor girl who was brutally murdered on Sunday morning.

The Chief Minister visited the bereaved family at their residence in Galwanpora village of Budgam district and offered words of comfort and solidarity during this hour of immense grief.

Expressing profound sorrow over the tragic loss of the child, the Chief Minister conveyed his deepest condolences to the family and assured them that the government stands firmly with them in their pursuit of justice.

The Chief Minister said the incident has shaken the conscience of society and asserted that such elements have no place in a civilised society.

He said the government will ensure that the case is taken to its logical conclusion and that the perpetrator of this heinous crime is awarded exemplary punishment in accordance with the law.

The Chief Minister was accompanied by MLA Budgam Agha Muntazir Mehdi and civil and police administration of the district.

The minor girl, who had gone missing on Saturday, was found dead in a nearby field in Galwanpora village of central Kashmir’s Budgam district on Sunday morning. The incident triggered widespread shock and grief across the area. Subsequently, police took cognisance of the matter and arrested the accused within 36 hours of the commission of the crime.

Calls for tougher anti-terror action

New Delhi, May 26: The Quad members on Tuesday condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and called for decisive and sustained efforts to combat it.

During the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in New Delhi on Tuesday, the member states — India, the US, Japan and Australia, stated that Quad remains concerned about the proliferation of online scam centres in Southeast Asia and surrounding regions which are connected to the spread of other transnational crime, including trafficking in persons, drug trafficking, sexual extortion, illicit financing, and other forms of cybercrime.

According to the joint statement released following the meeting, the Ministers announced that the Quad will deepen cooperation, particularly law enforcement and regulatory engagement, including strengthening partners’ ability to combat online scam centres and related transnational organised crime.

“We unequivocally condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, including cross-border terrorism and the horrific terrorist attacks perpetrated at Pahalgam in India on 22 April 2025, and Bondi Beach in Australia on 14 December 2025. We call for decisive and sustained international efforts to combat terrorism in accordance with international law, including action against globally proscribed terrorists and terror entities and their proxies, affiliates, sponsors and financiers,” the statement read.

“We are committed to working together with our international and regional partners in a comprehensive manner to strengthen their capacity to prevent, detect and respond to threats posed by terrorism, violent extremists who engage in violent, criminal, or terrorist acts and by the use of emerging technologies for terrorist purposes,” the ministers further stated.

External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi participated in the Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.

The Foreign Ministers of the Quad nations reiterated their support for a free and open Indo-Pacific and agreed to further enhance cooperation and advance concrete initiatives to deliver tangible benefits to the Indo-Pacific.

The joint statement released following the meeting said, “We remain seriously concerned about the situation in the East China Sea and the South China Sea. We reiterate our strong opposition to any destabilising or unilateral actions, including by force or coercion, that threaten peace and stability in the region.”

“We express our serious concerns regarding dangerous and coercive actions, including interference with offshore resource development, the repeated obstruction of freedom of navigation and overflight, and the dangerous manoeuvres by military aircraft and coast guard and maritime militia vessels, especially the unsafe use of water cannons and flares, and ramming or blocking actions in the South China Sea. We are seriously concerned by the militarisation of disputed features,” it added.

The ministers discussed the situation in West Asia and reaffirmed their support for ongoing diplomatic efforts. They stressed the importance of adhering to international law as mentioned in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) with respect to navigational rights and freedoms, and the safety and uninterrupted flow of global commerce through the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea.

They condemned the attacks on commercial shipping vessels and oppose any measures that are inconsistent with UNCLOS, including the imposition of tolls.

SRINAGAR, MAY 26: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Tuesday met several delegations at his Public Services and Outreach Office (Raabita) here and held discussions on matters relating to banking, youth development, heritage conservation, and the promotion of art and culture in Jammu and Kashmir.

Managing Director and CEO of J&K Bank, Amitava Chatterjee, called on the Chief Minister during a courtesy meeting. Various issues concerning the banking sector, financial outreach and customer services were discussed. The MD & CEO briefed the Chief Minister on efforts to further strengthen the Bank’s operations across Jammu and Kashmir for improved customer experience and service delivery.

Director General of the National Cadet Corps (NCC), Lt. Gen. Virendra Vats, accompanied by Additional Director General, NCC Directorate J&K and Ladakh, Maj. Gen. Anupinder Bevli, also met the Chief Minister. The delegation discussed matters relating to NCC activities, youth engagement and the expansion of cadet initiatives across Jammu and Kashmir.

A delegation from the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH), led by its Convener and Head, Saleem Beg, and Principal Architect, Sameer Hamdani, gave a detailed presentation to the Chief Minister on the preservation and restoration of heritage assets in Kashmir.

The delegation also highlighted concerns regarding water management in the Mughal Gardens of Kashmir in the context of climate change and stressed the need for sustainable conservation measures.

The Chief Minister assured the visiting delegation that the government remains committed to the preservation, protection and promotion of the rich artistic, cultural and architectural heritage of Jammu and Kashmir.

New Delhi, May 26: The Delhi High Court on Tuesday allowed Baramulla MP Abdul Rashid Sheikh, popularly known as Engineer Rashid, to avail a fresh spell of interim bail from June 25 to June 30 to attend the Chehlum (40th-day) rituals and ceremonies following his father’s demise.

A division bench of Justices Prathiba M. Singh and Madhu Jain directed that Rashid, who is currently on interim bail till June 2, shall surrender before the jail authorities upon expiry of the present relief period and would thereafter be released again on interim bail from June 25 to June 30.

The Delhi High Court further said that Rashid would not be required to furnish a fresh personal bond or surety if the same had already been furnished to the satisfaction of the Jail Superintendent pursuant to the previous order.

It added that all conditions imposed in the earlier order dated May 18 would continue to operate during the fresh period of interim bail.

Senior advocate N. Hariharan, appearing for Rashid, submitted before the Justice Singh-led Bench that although Rashid had already attended the last rites, the 40th-day ceremony scheduled for June 27 was an important religious observance for the family.

He further highlighted that travel from custody to Srinagar and back to Tihar Jail would require additional time.

Opposing the plea, counsel for the NIA argued against the grant of further interim bail.

However, the Delhi High Court observed that granting a short period of relief in such circumstances would not be unreasonable.

As per the latest order, Rashid will be released on interim bail from June 25 to June 30, subject to the same stringent conditions imposed earlier.

In its order passed on May 18, the Delhi High Court had granted interim bail to Rashid till June 2 to enable him to attend the funeral and perform the last rites of his father, who passed away at AIIMS-Delhi. It had then directed that Rashid remain under continuous escort of at least two plainclothes police personnel during the entire interim bail period. It had also restricted his stay to his residences in Srinagar and Kupwara districts of Jammu and Kashmir and permitted him to visit only the burial ground or place of worship for performing customary rites.

The order had further directed Rashid to use only one mobile number, remain in contact with the Investigating Officer, and refrain from contacting witnesses or indulging in any unlawful activity.

Rashid, who is facing trial in a terror-funding case being investigated by the NIA, has remained in custody for several years and had earlier been granted custody parole on multiple occasions, including to attend Parliament sessions.

Srinagar, May 26: Jammu and Kashmir DGP Nalin Prabhat said on Tuesday that it was a proud moment for him to stand with the teams of rescuers, who undertook the most challenging task by safely rescuing 320 people from the stranded cable car cabins in Gulmarg.

“Honestly speaking, I didn’t believe we could complete the task before midnight. It is a proud moment for me to stand with you”, the DGP told teams of J&K Police, SDRF, NDRF, Army and the local rescuers.

“Teams from the Gulmarg police station were the first to reach the site, but they were immediately joined by the Army, J&K armed police, NDRF, SDRF and local rescuers. All of them worked in the most coordinated and professional manner to successfully complete the rescue operation and bring down 320 stranded people,” the police chief said.

Special DGP Javaid Mujtaba Gilani, Special DG and Commandant General Home Guards Abdul Ghani Mir, IGP Kashmir V.K.Birdi, and other senior police officers were present with the DGP during the supervision of the rescue operation.

The police chief said rescue on the ground is not as challenging and tough as the one to rescue people stranded in car cabins in difficult, mountainous terrain amid bad weather.

“We in J&K Police have always been given the toughest challenges, and we have always successfully completed them,” he said.

The DGP also congratulated personnel of Gulmarg Police Station, SOG, J&K Armed Police, Mountain Rescue Teams (MRTs), SDRF and other agencies for their extraordinary efforts during the six-hour-long operation.

“You may be tired, hungry and thirsty, but I am sure all of you are happy because you were given a purpose today and you achieved success,” he said.

He further announced that every person engaged in the rescue operation would receive the DG Commendation medal in recognition of their bravery and dedication.

He said those of the rescuers who already have DG’s commendation certificates would be rewarded through other means, like promotions, etc.

New Delhi, May 26: The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) has introduced a series of user-friendly reforms under the PM-WANI (Prime Minister’s Wi-Fi Access Network Interface) framework aimed at expanding affordable and easier public Wi-Fi access across the country, the government said on Tuesday.

According to the Ministry of Communications, the new measures include QR-based authentication for secondary devices such as laptops, flexible short-duration Wi-Fi plans of 15, 30 and 60 minutes, and standardisation of PM-WANI hotspot names (SSIDs) to improve identification and reliability. The reforms have been notified by the DoT.

According to the government, all stakeholders have been directed to implement the revised guidelines within eight weeks, with full rollout expected by July 2026.

Under the updated framework, users will be able to connect laptops and other devices by scanning a QR code via an authenticated smartphone app, reducing login friction and improving ease of access, it said.

In addition, the DoT has advised hotspot operators to introduce sachet-style short-duration plans of 15, 30 and 60 minutes, aimed at commuters, students and users requiring brief internet access at public locations such as transit hubs and malls.

PM-WANI hotspot naming has also been standardised under a unified PM-WANI branding system to help users easily identify authentic networks and reduce confusion.

The reforms are part of the government’s continuing efforts to translate the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi into accessible and affordable digital connectivity for every citizen.

Under the leadership of Union Minister for Communications and Development of North Eastern Region Jyotiraditya Scindia, the PM-WANI ecosystem is witnessing a comprehensive transformation focused on improving accessibility, interoperability, ease of use and citizen adoption.

Minister of State for Communications and Rural Development Dr. Chandra Sekhar Pemmasani said PM-WANI is being positioned as a platform for universal public Wi-Fi access, with a focus on improving ease of use and adoption.

“QR-based login now lets you connect your laptop simply by scanning a code on your phone. We have also advised hotspot operators to offer short-duration plans of 15, 30 and 60 minutes,” he said.

The PM-WANI ecosystem, which operates through a distributed network of Public Data Offices (PDOs), PDO aggregators and app providers, is expected to see wider adoption with the rollout of the new reforms.

New Delhi, May 26: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday marked the completion of 12 years since the NDA government first assumed office at the Centre in 2014, describing the period as a journey of good governance, development and national transformation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

As the BJP-led NDA government completed 12 years in office, the Centre also planned a nationwide outreach campaign under which Union ministers, BJP leaders, chief ministers and Members of Parliament will connect with people across the country to highlight what the government has described as its “22 major achievements” across sectors.

The campaign will focus on welfare schemes, infrastructure expansion, economic reforms, digital governance, foreign policy achievements and social sector initiatives undertaken during the tenure of the Modi government.

BJP National President Nitin Nabin extended greetings to Prime Minister Modi on the completion of 12 years in office, describing the journey as one from “resolve to achievement”.

“This era, which began on May 26, 2014, is not merely a change in governance but a historic moment of the nation’s reclaimed self-confidence and cultural renaissance under the illustrious leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Nabin said in a post on X.

He said that guided by the principles of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas and Sabka Prayas’ along with the vision of ‘Antyodaya’, the government had transformed policies into instruments of change for ordinary citizens.

Nabin also highlighted initiatives such as Jan Dhan, Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), Digital India and the government’s emphasis on balancing “Vikas Bhi, Virasat Bhi”.

“Today’s secure and capable India stands fully prepared to safeguard its sovereignty, backed by resolute strikes against terrorism and the rising valour of its armed forces. This 12-year journey of good governance and nation-first ethos now forms the strongest foundation for the grand resolve of Viksit Bharat at 2047,” he said.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said that May 26, 2014, marked the beginning of a new chapter in India’s developmental and civilisational journey as Narendra Modi took oath as Prime Minister and the country witnessed a decisive transformation in governance and leadership.

“From economic development and social welfare to a strong push for Aatmanirbhar Bharat and digital transformation, from infrastructure growth and decisive global leadership to a stronger national security framework, under his leadership, India has marched ahead with unprecedented speed and scale,” Singh said in a post on X.

He further said that India’s growth story had become broader, deeper and more inclusive over the past 12 years.

“Most importantly, under the leadership of PM Modi, the vision of Antyodaya has been realised in its truest sense. Millions who had remained unseen and unheard for decades became active participants in India’s growth story,” the Defence Minister stated.

Singh added that the vision of “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas” had not remained just a slogan but had been reflected consistently in governance and policymaking.

“Today, India stands stronger, prouder and more self-confident than ever before. A ‘Pradhan-Sevak’, in the truest sense, Modi Ji has dedicated every moment of his life to the service of Maa Bharati and her people. His tireless commitment, unwavering resolve and selfless devotion towards the nation continue to inspire millions,” he added.

Union Agriculture Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan described the last 12 years as a journey dedicated to service, good governance and the welfare of the poor.

“Today, these 12 glorious years of this illustrious journey are being completed, during which the entire country is imbued with enthusiasm and national pride,” Chouhan said in a post on X.

He said that over the past 12 years, India had moved away from what he described as the era of “policy paralysis” and embraced the mantra of “Reform, Perform, Transform”.

According to Chouhan, the 12-year period represented a “golden era” of India’s reconstruction, public welfare and the vision of a developed India.

“These 12 years have borne witness to the empowerment of the person at the farthest end and the realisation of the resolve of ‘Antyodaya’,” he stated.

He further said that the Modi government, guided by the principle of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas’, had transformed the lives of villagers, farmers, women, poor families and youth across the country.

“The Prime Minister has scripted a new saga of development and public welfare, from Jan Dhan accounts to Ayushman Bharat, and from PM Awas Yojana to the Digital India revolution. Today, under the Prime Minister’s leadership, the country is rapidly advancing toward the goal of a Viksit Bharat,” Chouhan added.

Srinagar, May 26: Continuing its sustained crackdown against narcotics trafficking under the ongoing Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan, Srinagar Police has attached an immovable property belonging to a notorious drug peddler in Anantnag district in connection with a narcotics case registered in Srinagar.

The attached property is a residential house belonging to Aamir Hassan Mir son of Ghulam Hassan Mir resident of Bonpora Dupatyar, Bijbehara, constructed over land bearing Khasra No. 134 situated at Bonpora Dupatyar, Bijbehara, Anantnag. The property has an estimated market value of approximately ₹1 Crore.

The action was carried out under Section 68(F) of the NDPS Act in connection with FIR No. 17/2026 U/S 8/20 NDPS Act registered at Police Station Shergari, Srinagar.

The attachment proceedings were executed in the presence of the Executive Magistrate 1st Class, Bijbehara, after completion of all due legal formalities. The said property shall neither be sold, transferred nor otherwise dealt with without prior permission of the competent authority.

J&K Police reiterates its firm commitment towards dismantling narcotics networks and taking stringent legal action against individuals involved in drug trafficking and related activities. Police also appeals to the general public to cooperate and share any information related to drug peddling or narcotics networks so as to help build a drug-free society.

Srinagar, May 26: Continuing its sustained drive against narcotics and illegal cultivation under the ongoing anti-drug campaign, police have destroyed illegal poppy cultivation in Baramulla and Shopian.

In Baramulla, Police acted on reliable information regarding the illegal cultivation of Poppy crop at village Braripora falling within the jurisdiction of Police Station Bijhama. Accordingly, case FIR No. 04/2026 under relevant section of law was registered at Police Station Bijhama.

Subsequently, all necessary legal formalities were completed in coordination with the concerned Executive Magistrate and officers of the Agriculture Department. Thereafter, a joint operation was conducted in the presence of the Executive Magistrate, during which the illegally cultivated Poppy crop was seized and sealed in the presence of the Magistrate 1st Class Boniyar, while the remaining crop was destroyed on the spot as per the provisions of law. Further investigation in the case is underway and legal action under the relevant provisions of the NDPS Act has been initiated.

In Shopian, Police continued its crackdown on illegal narcotics cultivation by acting on specific intelligence regarding poppy cultivation in the Saidpora Bala area of the district. Acting promptly, a police team from Police Station Heerpora along with officials from Revenue Department reached the spot and detected illegal poppy cultivation on land belonging to Manzoor Ahmad Ganie son of Ali Mohd Ganie resident of Saidpora Bala. The illicit crop was immediately destroyed on the spot. In this regard, Case FIR No. 41/2026 under relevant sections of law has been registered at Police Station Heerpora and further investigation has been taken up.

Police remains committed towards eradicating the menace of drugs and appeals to the general public to cooperate with Police in curbing drug-related activities in the valley.