Precious Kashmir

Capturing exact metrics

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03/06/2026

Jammu and Kashmir has embraced a new era in governance by seeing over 667,000 Homes use the Residential Dashboard during this self-enumeration stage.

The self-enumeration Process of collecting data about households is leading to the start of the Houselisting Operations and has demonstrated to the People of Jammu & Kashmir that their Government is truly moving towards a Modern-Governance Approach through the use of Digital Access and Technology.

Jammu and Kashmir has achieved a historic feat by ranking first out of the Union Territory categories during this self-enumeration stage where more than 667,000 households contributed their data to this page for Digital Access/E-State Management.

This response rate demonstrates a high level of public confidence in the new method of Governmental Distribution Resources and a high level of confidence in Social Programs offered to clients.

The New Data gathered through the Residential Dashboard will provide local Government Authorities with clear metrics of local Population housing and of the ability to develop and implement plans based on credible data to develop and allocate resources for Healthcare, Infrastructure and Social Service Programs for those Individuals in the area.

The New and More Refined Data obtained through the Residential Dashboard will ensure that all individuals, including rural and nomadic populations, are included in the Government’s distribution of Resources and operate under the Rule of Law.

This outstanding participation from the people of Jammu and Kashmir shows that they are very proactive in creating their respective socio-political and Economic Future.

The rise of the use of electronic portals is indicative of a society that is empowered through technology.

Citizens are reminded to encourage the continued engagement of the enumerators while they are conducting their door-to-door visits as the current Census is working to be a catalyst for inclusive and equitable growth through the continued cooperation provided by each of you.

New water storage projects to boost Sgr’s water supply: Haseeb

City
Jammu & Kashmir

Precious Kashmir

03/06/2026

Reviews progress of AMRUT 2.0 water infrastructure projects

SRINAGAR, JUNE 02: Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), Faz Lul Haseeb Tuesday conducted a comprehensive inspection of key water supply infrastructure projects being executed under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme AMRUT 2.0, reviewing the progress of works aimed at strengthening and modernizing Srinagar’s urban water distribution network.

During the inspection, the Commissioner visited the under-construction Overhead Water Tanks (OHTs) at Jenab Sahib, Soura and Behrar Baghwanpora, Lal Bazar, where he assessed the pace of execution, quality standards, and overall physical progress of the projects. He reviewed the status of ongoing civil works and held detailed discussions with engineers and project officials regarding project timelines and implementation challenges.

Emphasizing the strategic importance of the projects, Haseeb stated that the new water storage infrastructure will substantially improve the city’s water supply system by enhancing storage capacity, strengthening distribution efficiency, and ensuring a more dependable supply of potable water to residents of the beneficiary areas.

The Commissioner directed the executing agencies to accelerate the pace of work and ensure completion of all components within the prescribed timelines without compromising quality. He stressed that timely delivery of public infrastructure projects remains a priority and called for strict adherence to technical specifications and approved project standards.

While interacting with field engineers and officials, Haseeb underscored the need for robust supervision, regular monitoring, and close inter-departmental coordination to ensure smooth execution of works. He instructed the concerned officers to proactively resolve any bottlenecks and maintain sustained momentum to avoid delays in project completion.

Reaffirming SMC’s commitment to strengthening urban infrastructure under AMRUT 2.0, the Commissioner observed that the scheme is contributing significantly to the development of resilient civic infrastructure and the enhancement of essential public services. He noted that the ongoing investments in water supply infrastructure are expected to deliver long-term benefits by improving service delivery, supporting future urban growth, and enhancing the overall quality of life for citizens.

The inspection was attended by the Joint Commissioner (Works), SMC, Executive Engineers of the Public Health Engineering Department, and other senior officials associated with the implementation of AMRUT 2.0 projects.

Global Day of Parents: Honouring Sacrifice, Unconditional Love and Respect in Islam

Opinion

Precious Kashmir

03/06/2026

Global Day of Parents: Honouring Sacrifice, Unconditional Love and Respect in Islam

By: Shoiab Mohmmad Bhat

Every year on June 1, the world marks Global Day of Parents. Unlike many international observances that focus on institutions, professions, or causes, this day is about the people whose influence begins long before a child understands the world. Parents are among the first individuals a child sees, trusts, and learns from. Their role continues through every stage of life, even when children become adults and start families of their own. In most homes, the contribution of parents is so constant that it is often taken for granted. Meals appear on the table, school fees get paid, and challenges somehow get resolved. Children grow up assuming that such support is a normal part of life. Only with age do many people begin to understand the effort, sacrifice, and concern hidden behind these everyday realities.
A parent’s responsibility does not begin when a child starts school. It starts much earlier. The first lessons about kindness, honesty, respect, and discipline are usually learned at home. Children observe far more than they listen. They watch how their parents speak to others, respond to difficulties, and handle responsibilities. These observations quietly shape attitudes and behaviour.
Many successful people have achieved success due to teaching, mentorship, and professional guidance. However, every person’s success story can be attributed to a parent who has worked day and night for the successful child. Most parents work tirelessly for their children. Others make countless sacrifices that often go unrecognized.
The changing nature of society has made parenting more challenging than ever. Previous generations had problems related to education, employment, and social values. But today’s parents have additional concerns about the role of social media, excessive use of screens, the internet, and even more pressure on their kids’ minds. It is very hard work raising children under these circumstances.
In Kashmir, relations between family members have been an important part of society. The parents play an important role in offering support during the tough times, such as studies, work, money matters, or personal issues. There is hardly anyone who does not remember a time when the parent was there in moments of failure and uncertainty. Such help does not always offer immediate solutions to problems, but gives strength to move ahead.
A mother’s role deserves special recognition. From the earliest days of a child’s life, the roles require great patience and devotion. They are constantly worrying, tired from sleepless nights and devoted to caring. Many mothers continue to place their children above their own needs. Fathers, too, carry responsibilities that often remain less visible. For many families, fathers spend years working to provide stability and security. They worry about education, health, finances, and the future of their children. Much of this concern stays unspoken. Children may only fully understand these sacrifices when they face similar responsibilities themselves.
Parents are highly regarded in Islam. Kindness to one’s parents, as well as respect for them, is greatly valued in the religion of Islam. This is seen from the numerous mentions of it in the Holy Quran. Respecting one’s parents is viewed as a moral responsibility and virtue.
One of the most heart-warming verses is found in Surah Al-Isra, which teaches Muslims to speak to their parents softly and to pray to Allah with mercy and compassion on their behalf. This verse reminds us that we owe our parents dignity and respect, especially when they grow old and cannot do anything on their own.
The position of the mother has special significance in Islam. A well-known Hadith narrates that a man asked Prophet Muhammad (SAW) who deserved the best companionship. The Prophet replied, “Your mother” three times before mentioning, “Your father.”
Islam also honours fathers for their efforts and responsibilities. Providing for a family, protecting its well-being, and guiding children are viewed as important duties. Both parents occupy a position of honour, and serving them is regarded as a source of blessing and reward.
But even after receiving such lessons, the present day might cause people to become detached from each other. The hectic lifestyles of today, coupled with cell phones and computer screens, might not help in promoting genuine conversations among family members, who will be living together but spending less time communicating.
Global Day of Parents offers an opportunity to reflect on these changes. The occasion is not about expensive gifts or grand celebrations. A conversation, a visit, a phone call, or a simple expression of gratitude can mean far more. Many parents seek neither recognition nor praise. They value respect, affection, and the reassurance that their efforts have been appreciated.
The day also reminds younger generations that parents will not always be present. Time moves quickly. The people who once guided us through childhood eventually grow older. Their strength may decline, and their needs may increase. Moments spent with them today often become memories that people cherish for the rest of their lives.
Good families constitute the basis of good societies. Where parents are honoured and respected, the kids live under better circumstances. Families of this sort help in the formation of a stable society based on understanding and common prosperity. As the world observes Global Day of Parents, it is worth taking a moment to acknowledge the people who stood beside us from the very beginning. Their sacrifices may never be fully measured, and their contributions may never receive public recognition. Yet their influence can be seen in every lesson learned, every challenge overcome, and every success achieved. Parents remain among life’s greatest blessings, deserving gratitude not only on one day of the year but throughout our lives.
About the Author: Shoiab Mohmmad Bhat is a writer, social educator and researcher from Baramulla, holds a master’s in Gender Studies and a BED. He writes on social issues, education, and gender perspectives, promoting awareness and positive change.

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Bicycle: The Foundation of Healthy Living and a Sustainable Environment

Opinion

Precious Kashmir

03/06/2026

Bicycle: The Foundation of Healthy Living and a Sustainable Environment

By: Lalit Gargg

Every year on 3 June, World Bicycle Day is celebrated not merely as a tribute to a simple mode of transport, but as a global affirmation of human health, environmental stewardship, social equity, and sustainable development. At a time when the world is grappling with challenges such as climate change, pollution, lifestyle diseases, and urban traffic congestion, the bicycle emerges as a remarkably simple yet powerful solution that benefits individuals, communities, and nations alike. The theme of World Bicycle Day 2026, “Cycling for a Greener Future,” is both timely and meaningful. It reminds us that if we wish to leave behind a cleaner, healthier, and safer planet for future generations, we must transform our transportation habits and make cycling an integral part of everyday life.
The bicycle is one of humanity’s most enduring inventions, retaining its relevance and utility for more than two centuries. Even in this age of rapid technological advancement, its importance has not diminished; rather, it has grown in response to contemporary challenges. A bicycle requires neither petrol, diesel, nor electricity. It emits no harmful pollutants and causes no environmental degradation. Recognizing its immense value, the United Nations officially proclaimed 3 June as World Bicycle Day in 2018. Modern lifestyles have undoubtedly brought comfort and convenience, but they have also given rise to numerous health concerns. Long hours of sedentary work, dependence on motorized transport, lack of physical activity, and mounting stress have contributed to rising rates of obesity, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health disorders. In such circumstances, the bicycle serves not only as a mode of transportation but also as a reliable companion for better health.
According to medical and health experts, regular cycling is an excellent cardiovascular exercise. It strengthens the heart, improves blood circulation, enhances lung capacity, and helps burn excess calories. Cycling also builds muscular strength while placing minimal stress on the joints, making it suitable for people of all age groups. Its role in preventing obesity, diabetes, and heart disease is particularly significant. Beyond physical fitness, cycling offers substantial mental health benefits. In an era where stress, anxiety, and depression have become global concerns, riding a bicycle in the open air promotes emotional well-being, reduces stress hormones, and fosters positive energy. It reconnects people with nature and nurtures a sense of balance, freedom, and joy. In essence, cycling is a holistic exercise that revitalizes both body and mind.
From an environmental perspective, the significance of cycling is even greater. Cities around the world are struggling with escalating air pollution and chronic traffic congestion. Emissions from motor vehicles remain one of the leading contributors to environmental degradation and public health risks. The bicycle, by contrast, is a zero-emission vehicle. If people choose bicycles over motorcycles and cars for short-distance travel, carbon emissions can be reduced substantially. It is one of the simplest and most effective individual actions in the fight against climate change.
Socially, the bicycle symbolizes equality, accessibility, and inclusion. It serves people across all economic backgrounds with equal effectiveness. In rural regions, millions continue to rely on bicycles to access education, employment, healthcare, and essential services. For low-income families, it remains one of the most affordable and dependable means of transportation. By improving mobility and access to opportunities, cycling contributes significantly to social empowerment and economic participation. For a developing nation like India, the importance of cycling is particularly profound. On one hand, the country spends vast resources on energy imports; on the other, urban centers face severe challenges related to traffic congestion and pollution. Promoting a cycling culture can help conserve fuel, reduce foreign exchange expenditure, and lower healthcare costs associated with lifestyle-related diseases. Healthy citizens constitute a nation’s greatest asset.
Ironically, cycling was once an inseparable part of everyday life in India, but consumerist aspirations and the growing prestige associated with motor vehicles gradually pushed it to the margins. Today, many perceive the bicycle as a vehicle for the poor, whereas in several developed nations it has become a symbol of health consciousness, environmental responsibility, and modern urban living. Countries such as the Netherlands, Denmark, and Germany have successfully placed cycling at the heart of urban transportation systems through dedicated cycling lanes, safe infrastructure, and supportive public policies. India, too, must pursue a similar path with vision and determination.
The need of the hour is to view the bicycle not merely as a recreational or sporting tool but as an essential component of public transportation. Cities should invest in safe cycling tracks, public bicycle-sharing systems, and incentives that encourage cycling to workplaces and educational institutions. Schools, colleges, and communities should actively cultivate a culture of cycling while raising awareness about its health and environmental benefits. The true purpose of World Bicycle Day is to inspire society to recognize and embrace the multifaceted value of the bicycle. It teaches us that transformative change does not always arise from complex technologies; sometimes, a simple two-wheeled vehicle can guide humanity toward a better future.
Today, we must stop viewing the bicycle as a relic of the past and begin recognizing it as a necessity for the future. As the world strives to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, cycling offers a practical pathway toward healthier lives, cleaner environments, stronger economies, and greater social justice. World Bicycle Day conveys a powerful message: if we aspire to a healthy body, a clean environment, and a balanced way of life, we must once again make cycling a part of our daily routine. The bicycle is far more than a means of transport; it is a philosophy of life—one that embodies simplicity, balance, wellness, and harmony with nature. India’s future will be healthier, greener, and more progressive when bicycles once again become an integral part of its streets, neighborhoods, and collective consciousness. This is the true significance of World Bicycle Day and the shared commitment we must embrace for a greener and more sustainable future.

Author, Journalist & Columnist

War on drugs also war on terror: LG Sinha

Front

Precious Kashmir

02/06/2026

War on drugs also war on terror: LG Sinha

Says every rupee spent on drugs funds violence

Leads drug-free J&K padyatra in Kulgam

SRINAGAR: The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha Monday led ‘Drug-Free J&K Padyatra’ in Kulgam and addressed a public meeting. The Lieutenant Governor said that this people’s movement has connected every heart across Jammu Kashmir with a shared purpose to make their village, their town drug-free.

“This campaign belongs to the people. Parents, teachers, religious leaders and young volunteers have stood shoulder to shoulder with the administration. The road ahead is long. The fight against drugs will take sustained effort, constant alertness and unity. We must remain steadfast. We must encourage our young people, protect our families and strengthen our communities,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

The Lieutenant Governor observed that 51-days ago people of Jammu Kashmir kindled a spark of change and with massive participation of the people that spark in Jammu Kashmir has become a fierce flame of hope, courage and resolve.

“This campaign is striking directly at the financial backbone of terrorism. Every rupee spent on drugs fuels extremist violence, and narco-terrorists survive on that blood money. By halting the drug trade, we cut off the lifeline that sustains terror networks.

I want people of Jammu Kashmir to remember that this is not only a public-health struggle, but also a fight for national security. When we choke off drug smuggling, we weaken those who seek to destabilize our nation, spill the blood of innocent people of J&K, and divert our youth from the path of progress,” he said.

The Lieutenant Governor in his address highlighted that for many years Jammu Kashmir endured attacks on the society by narco-terrorists. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the guidance of Home Minister Amit Shah, Nasha-Mukt Bharat Initiative launched in 2020 marked the turning point.

“I stand before you not only as your Lieutenant Governor but as a member of your family who shares your pain, your struggles, and your dream of a safe, empowered and drug-free Jammu Kashmir. In 2021, I pledged a fear-free and drug-free Jammu Kashmir so that the shadows of drugs and terror that once loomed over our youth can be banished entirely. I can say with confidence today that the chains that once trapped our youth in the dark web of drugs are breaking apart, link by link, day by day.

Over the past 51 days we have carried out extensive, coordinated operations against narco-terrorists and drug traffickers. With a whole-of-government approach we are dismantling networks that had become entrenched. Raids have targeted drug smugglers and drug peddlers in villages and towns, supply chains have been broken, and narco-terrorists have been exposed,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

It is pertinent to mention that 923 FIRs have been registered against drug traffickers in the last 51 days. More than 1,000 drug smugglers and peddlers have been arrested, over 55 traffickers have been detained under PIT-NDPS provisions, 668 driving licenses have been cancelled, and recommendations have been made to revoke 124 passports. The Lieutenant Governor said that the fight against drugs is not limited to raids and arrests but the administration is also working on breaking the supply chain, generating public awareness and working towards the dignified rehabilitation for those suffering from addiction.

“We will ensure our youth are freed from the grip of addiction, return to the mainstream of society, and become the strength that will lead Jammu Kashmir toward a brighter tomorrow,” the Lieutenant Governor said.

India backs peace process in Myanmar: PM Modi

Front

Indo Asian News Service

02/06/2026

Both sides agree to expand cooperation

New Delhi, June 1: India and Myanmar on Monday decided to advance bilateral ties and collaborate further in areas of trade, investment, connectivity, development partnership, capacity building, security and border management. In the extensive discussions held at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Myanmar President U Min Aung Hlaing agreed to further deepen the bilateral ties between both neighbouring nations.

During the meeting, PM Modi reiterated India’s readiness to support peace and dialogue in Myanmar, including by sharing federal governance and economic growth experiences.

“PM Narendra held wide-ranging discussions with President U Min Aung Hlaing of Myanmar on further deepening India-Myanmar bilateral ties. Anchored in the enduring historic and people-to-people relationship, both sides agreed to advance India-Myanmar partnership for peace, progress and prosperity and to further collaborate in areas of trade, investment, connectivity, development partnership, capacity building, security and border management,” the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal posted on X.

“PM conveyed that India remains Myanmar’s trusted neighbour, a reliable partner and steadfast first responder in times of crisis, in line with India’s Neighbourhood First, Act East and MAHASAGAR policies. PM reaffirmed India’s readiness to support peace and dialogue in Myanmar, including by sharing federal governance and economic growth experiences,” he added.

Later in the day, President U Min Aung Hlaing will meet President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. He is also scheduled to visit ‘The Light and the Lotus: Relics of the Awakened One’ cultural exposition at Raipithora cultural complex in the capital.

This is President U Min Aung Hlaing’s first visit to India after assuming office. He is also scheduled to travel to Mumbai for business interactions and site visits. For his visit, he is accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising several cabinet ministers, senior officials and business leaders.

On Sunday, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval called on President Hlaing in New Delhi. On May 30, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar had also called on U Min Aung Hlaing and expressed appreciation for his positive sentiment towards deepening bilateral cooperation.

President U Min Aung Hlaing began his five-day visit to India by offering prayers at the Mahabodhi Temple in Bihar’s Bodh Gaya on Saturday.

“Myanmar lies at the confluence of India’s Neighbourhood First, Act East and MAHASAGAR policies. The official visit of President U Min Aung Hlaing to India is expected to further strengthen and deepen the multi-faceted relations between the two countries,” the MEA stated.

CJI Kant to swear in 5 new SC judges today

Front

Indo Asian News Service

02/06/2026

New Delhi, June 1: Chief Justice of India (CJI) Surya Kant is set to administer the oath of office to five new judges of the Supreme Court on June 2, following the Centre’s approval of their elevation to the apex court.

According to a circular issued by the Supreme Court Registry, the swearing-in ceremony of Justices Sheel Nagu, Shree Chandrashekhar, Sanjeev Sachdeva, and Arun Palli, along with senior advocate V. Mohana, will be held at 10.30 a.m. on June 2 in the Auditorium on the third floor of the Administrative Buildings Complex (ABC) of the Supreme Court.

The Registry has made special arrangements for the ceremony and notified officers, staff members, and coordinating agencies, including the Supreme Court Security and the CPWD. In view of the event, parking of vehicles — except those of Registrars — will not be permitted in the Administrative Buildings Complex on the day of the ceremony.

Acting on the Supreme Court Collegium’s recommendations, the Centre cleared the appointments of the four High Court Chief Justices and senior advocate Mohana as judges of the top court. Earlier in the day, Union Minister for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal, in a post on X, said that the President, after consultation with the Chief Justice of India (CJI), had appointed Justices Sheel Nagu, Shree Chandrashekhar, Sanjeev Sachdeva, and Arun Palli, along with senior advocate V. Mohana, as judges of the Supreme Court.

The Supreme Court Collegium, in its meetings held on May 22 and May 27, had recommended the elevation of Justice Sheel Nagu, Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court; Justice Shree Chandrashekhar, Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court; Justice Sanjeev Sachdeva, Chief Justice of the Madhya Pradesh High Court; Justice Arun Palli, Chief Justice of the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court; and senior advocate V. Mohana.

Justice Nagu was appointed as a judge of the Madhya Pradesh High Court in May 2011 and became Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court in July 2024.

Justice Chandrashekhar was elevated to the Jharkhand High Court in January 2013 and took over as Chief Justice of the Bombay High Court in January 2025.

Justice Sachdeva was appointed an Additional Judge of the Delhi High Court in April 2013, became a permanent judge in March 2015, and assumed office as Chief Justice of the Madhya Pradesh High Court in July 2025.

Justice Palli was elevated to the Punjab and Haryana High Court in December 2013 and appointed Chief Justice of the Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh High Court in April 2025. Senior advocate Mohana has been practising before the Supreme Court and has appeared in several constitutional, civil, and service law matters.

As per the existing Memorandum of Procedure (MoP), the CJI, along with the four senior-most Supreme Court judges, commonly known as the Collegium, forwards its recommendations to the Centre to fill vacancies in the apex court.

The swearing-in will further strengthen the apex court following the promulgation of the Supreme Court (Number of Judges) Amendment Ordinance, 2026, which increased the sanctioned strength of judges from 33 to 37, excluding the Chief Justice of India.

Justice Sanjeev Kumar appointed acting CJ

Front

Indo Asian News Service

02/06/2026

New Delhi, June 1: The Centre on Monday issued a notification appointing Justice Sanjeev Kumar as the Acting Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh, shortly after the elevation of incumbent Chief Justice Arun Palli to the Supreme Court was cleared.

“In exercise of the powers conferred by Article 223 of the Constitution of India, the President is pleased to appoint Shri Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Judge of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, to perform the duties of the office of the Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh consequent upon appointment of Shri Justice Arun Palli, Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh as a Judge of the Supreme Court of India,” said a notification issued by the Union Ministry of Law and Justice.

Article 223 of the Constitution empowers the President to appoint any puisne judge as Acting Chief Justice when the office of the Chief Justice of a High Court falls vacant or when the Chief Justice is unable to discharge functions.

Earlier in the day, the Centre cleared the elevation of Justice Arun Palli, along with three other High Court Chief Justices and senior advocate V. Mohana, as judges of the Supreme Court, acting on the recommendation of the Supreme Court Collegium.

In a post on X, Union Minister for Law and Justice Arjun Ram Meghwal announced that the President, after consultation with the Chief Justice of India (CJI), had appointed Justices Sheel Nagu, Shree Chandrashekhar, Sanjeev Sachdeva and Arun Palli, along with senior advocate V. Mohana, as judges of the Supreme Court.

Justice Arun Palli, whose parent High Court is the Punjab and Haryana High Court, had taken oath as the Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh in April 2025.

The Supreme Court Collegium had recommended his elevation to the apex court at its meetings held on May 22 and May 27.

Notably, Justice Sanjeev Kumar had earlier served as the Acting Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh in April 2025 before Justice Arun Palli assumed charge as the Chief Justice.

Full Court Reference for CJ Arun Palli

Front

Precious Kashmir

02/06/2026

SRINAGAR, JUNE 01: In a solemn and dignified ceremony, a Full Court Reference was held in the Court Room of the Chief Justice at the Srinagar Wing of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh to honour Chief Justice, Arun Palli, on his elevation as a Judge of the Supreme Court of India.
The Full Court Reference was convened in accordance with the long-standing conventions and cherished institutional traditions of the High Court.
The Reference was attended by Justice Sanjeev Kumar, Justice Sindhu Sharma, Justice Rajnesh Oswal, Justice Sanjay Dhar, Justice Mohd. Akram
Chowdhary, Justice Rahul Bharti, Justice Moksha Khajuria Kazmi, Justice Wasim Sadiq Nargal, Justice Rajesh Sekhri, Justice Mohd. Yousuf Wani, Justice Sanjay Parihar and Justice Shahzad Azeem along with the spouses of the Judges of the High Court.
The proceedings were also attended by former Chief Justices, former Judges of the High Court of J&K and Ladakh, Chief Secretary, UT of J&K;
Director General of Police of UT of J&K; Judicial Member of Central Administrative Tribunal, Srinagar Bench; other senior officers of the civil administration of UT of J&K, including the Commissioner/Secretary Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs; Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar; Senior Additional Advocate General, Jammu as well as Srinagar; Deputy Solicitors
General of India at Jammu and Srinagar; the President, Kashmir Advocates Association, Srinagar; Senior Advocates; Principal District and Sessions Judge, Srinagar; Judicial Officers and officers of the Registry of the High Court. Besides, the officers and officials and Advocates of the High Court from Jammu Wing joined the proceedings through virtual mode.
The farewell address was delivered by the Mohsin Qadri, Senior Additional Advocate General, Srinagar, who highlighted the distinguished judicial career, scholarship, administrative acumen and commitment of Justice Arun Palli to the cause of justice. The Senior Additional Advocate General observed that the tenure of Chief Justice of the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh was marked by vision, integrity, accessibility and a steadfast commitment towards strengthening the justice delivery system, promoting institutional efficiency and upholding the highest traditions of the judiciary.
The President, Kashmir Advocates Association, Srinagar, in his address, expressed deep appreciation for the humility, judicial wisdom, accessibility and unwavering dedication of Justice Arun Palli to the rule of law. He conveyed best wishes of the legal fraternity on elevation of Justice Arun Palli to the Supreme Court of India.
Justice Sanjeev Kumar delivered the farewell address and reflected upon the illustrious judicial career, exceptional leadership and invaluable
contribution of the Chief Justice to the institution. He recalled the profound impact of Justice Arun Palli’s stewardship on the administration of justice and the functioning of the High Court. He lauded his dedication, humility, clarity of thought and commitment to judicial excellence.
Responding to the farewell addresses, Chief Justice Arun Palli, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the companion Judges, members of the Bar, Judicial Officers, officers and officials of the Registry and all stakeholders for their cooperation, affection and support during his tenure. He fondly reflected upon his association with the High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh and emphasized the importance of preserving the cherished traditions, values and independence of the institution. He also placed on record his appreciation for the contribution of the Bar and the dedication of the officers and staff of the High Court in ensuring effective administration of justice.
The proceedings of the Full Court Reference were conducted by M. K. Sharma, Registrar General, High Court of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
Lastly, Justice Arun Palli was accorded a ceremonial Guard of Honour by the security personnel as a mark of profound respect.

CM writes to Naidu on Haj baggage delays

Front

Precious Kashmir

02/06/2026

SRINAGAR, JUNE 1: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has written to Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, seeking urgent intervention to facilitate the timely and concurrent transportation of baggage belonging to Haj pilgrims returning to Jammu and Kashmir from Saudi Arabia.

In his communication, the Chief Minister highlighted the difficulties being faced by returning Haj pilgrims due to delays in the transportation of their checked-in baggage. He noted that owing to ongoing maintenance works and operational constraints at Srinagar Airport, the baggage of pilgrims is reportedly being routed separately and transported by road from Ahmedabad, resulting in considerable delays in its delivery.

The Chief Minister observed that many of the pilgrims are elderly and have undertaken the sacred pilgrimage after years of devotion, preparation and aspiration. He said the delay in receiving their baggage has caused inconvenience and disappointment to the pilgrims and their families.

Emphasizing the religious and social significance attached to the contents of the baggage, Omar Abdullah pointed out that pilgrims traditionally distribute Zamzam water, dates and other offerings among relatives, neighbours and well-wishers immediately upon their return. The delay, he said, has adversely affected these cherished customs and traditions associated with the Haj pilgrimage.

Seeking the Union Minister’s intervention, the Chief Minister urged that arrangements be made to ensure the safe and simultaneous transportation of pilgrims’ baggage along with them on the same flights to Jammu and Kashmir.

He expressed hope that an early and favourable consideration of the matter would help alleviate the hardships being faced by returning pilgrims and preserve the sanctity of items carrying deep religious and sentimental significance.

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