#jammu_and_kashmir

Hot, Humid Weather to Continue in Jammu and Kashmir; Rain Expected in Many Areas on Aug 31-Sept 1 Hot and humid weather is likely to persist across Jammu and Kashmir for the coming days, with brief spells of rain and thundershowers expected at scattered locations, particularly during early morning and afternoon hours, according to the Meteorological Centre Srinagar. The weather department has issued forecasts detailing the regional climate trends and issued advisories for residents and farmers. From August 27 to 30, the region is expected to remain generally hot and humid, with brief periods of rain or thundershowers occurring at isolated places. The department noted that these weather patterns are likely to continue, with the atmosphere remaining unstable during this period. On August 31 and September 1, light to moderate rain and thundershowers are likely at many places, with brief intense showers possible during the early morning and afternoon hours. The Meteorological Centre warned that these intense showers may trigger flash floods, mudslides, and landslides, particularly in vulnerable areas. From September 2 to 7, the weather is expected to remain largely dry, though brief spells of rain or thundershowers may still occur at scattered locations during early morning and afternoon hours. The Meteorological Centre has advised caution regarding the risk of flash floods, mudslides, and landslides in vulnerable areas during the intense showers on August 31 and September 1. It urged residents, especially those living in or traveling through hilly and vulnerable areas, to remain alert during periods of heavy rainfall. Farmers have been advised to continue harvesting and agricultural operations, as the weather conditions do not currently pose an immediate threat to crop activities.#jammu_and_kashmir #meteorological_centre_srinagar #august_31 #september_1 #flash_floods

Govt. Introduces SIM Card Purchase Regulation Changes Effective August 24 The Indian government has announced significant changes to the rules governing the purchase of SIM cards, effective August 24, 2026. These regulations aim to curb the misuse of mobile numbers by limiting the number of SIM cards an individual can own. Under the new policy, telecom companies will be required to verify existing SIM holdings before issuing new connections, ensuring compliance with set limits. Previously, individuals could purchase multiple SIM cards under a single name, but the updated rules impose a cap. For most regions in India, the maximum number of active mobile connections per person is set at nine. However, in Jammu and Kashmir, Assam, and other Northeastern states, the limit is reduced to six. These restrictions apply across all telecom providers, meaning that even if a person has SIMs from different companies, the total count will be considered. The new policy mandates that telecom companies use the Digital Intelligence Platform (DIP) to verify the number of existing SIMs associated with a person's name. Starting August 24, operators will need to cross-check new SIM applications against this database. If an individual exceeds the allowed limit, the additional connections will be suspended immediately. Telecom companies are also required to strengthen their verification systems by November 30 to ensure real-time checks. The government emphasized that the primary goal of these regulations is to prevent the misuse of mobile numbers for fraudulent activities, such as cybercrime and identity theft. Mobile numbers are often linked to bank accounts, UPI, social media, and government services, making them valuable tools for scams.#assam #jammu_and_kashmir #indian_government #digital_intelligence_platform #telecom_companies

Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah Demands Revocation of Indus Water Treaty Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has strongly demanded the permanent revocation of the Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan, calling it a violation of the region’s rights. He also raised concerns about the safety of Kashmiri Pandits and the delayed restoration of statehood for the region. Abdullah’s remarks came in response to a Pakistani prime minister’s warning that withholding water would lead to bloodshed, to which he countered by asserting that the water dispute has cost the region’s people their blood. Abdullah emphasized that the treaty has historically deprived Kashmiris of their rightful access to the Indus River system, accusing Pakistan of exploiting the agreement to siphon off the region’s water resources. He cited the 2025 Pahalgam attack as a pivotal moment that underscored the need to cancel the treaty, stating that the rivers of Jammu and Kashmir belong to the local people and should not be subject to external control. The CM also criticized the Indian government for failing to fulfill its promise of granting Jammu and Kashmir full statehood, which he referred to as the “Super Promise.” He questioned why Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s pledge to restore statehood had not been realized, framing it as an ongoing struggle rather than a resolved issue. Abdullah warned that the movement for statehood would not be silenced, vowing to continue pushing for its realization. Abdullah highlighted the growing threat to Kashmiri Pandits, noting that security agencies have received reports of targeted attacks and intimidation. He urged authorities to take these threats seriously, citing a history of violence against the community.#jammu_and_kashmir #omar_abdullah #akali_dal #kashmiri_pandits #indus_water_treaty

The recent surge in threats against Kashmiri Pandits has reignited fears of violence in the region, with a chilling letter circulated among community members warning of potential attacks. This comes amid heightened tensions following two recent incidents in South Kashmir, where a Jammu and Kashmir police constable and two migrant laborers from Chhattisgarh were killed. The letter, attributed to the United Liberation Council (ULC), a banned militant group linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, echoes past patterns of intimidation that have left a legacy of trauma for the community. The ULC’s message, which surfaced just weeks after the attacks, serves as a grim reminder of the 2021-2022 period when the Resistance Front, another banned group, targeted Kashmiri Pandits, migrant laborers, and journalists with similar threats. These warnings culminated in the killing of prominent Pandit Makhon Lal Bindrue, whose pharmacy was renowned for its quality medicines. The current letter, however, has intensified anxiety, with some community members reporting that they have been instructed to vacate their homes or businesses by local police, citing the need to prevent a repeat of past violence. The situation has exposed the fragility of security measures in the region. Despite the government’s claims that the removal of Article 370 in 2019 had eradicated militancy, the recent attacks and threats suggest otherwise. Authorities have deployed central paramilitary forces, including the Border Security Force (BSF), to bolster security ahead of the Republic Day celebrations, but many feel these efforts are insufficient. A senior police official acknowledged that increased patrols and the presence of security forces have provided some reassurance, yet the underlying fear persists.#jammu_and_kashmir #amit_shah #kashmiri_pandits #united_liberation_council #resistance_front

Akib Nabi Should Not Have Been Bumrah's Replacement, Says Wasim Jaffer Akib Nabi, a fast bowler from Jammu and Kashmir, is currently on a tour of Sri Lanka with the Indian team. Former India opener Wasim Jaffer has expressed his views on Akib's inclusion in the squad, stating that he should not have been selected as a replacement for injured pacer Jasprit Bumrah. Bumrah, who is still recovering from a knee injury, is unavailable for the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, which starts on August 15. Akib, who has been performing exceptionally well in the Ranji Trophy, was chosen to fill the gap left by Bumrah. Akib's inclusion in the Indian squad marks a significant milestone for Jammu and Kashmir cricket. He is the third player from the region to enter the senior national team and the first to make it to the Test squad. In the past two Ranji Trophy seasons, Akib has taken 104 wickets, including a record 60 wickets in the 2025-26 season, which helped his team win the championship for the first time. Jaffer, while happy about Akib's selection, believes the bowler should have been given a direct spot in the squad rather than being labeled as a replacement. Jaffer emphasized that Akib's performance in the Ranji Trophy, particularly his ability to consistently take wickets under pressure, warrants a first-choice spot in the national team. He praised Akib's dedication and noted that the young bowler has been a key player for Jammu and Kashmir, contributing significantly to their success. Jaffer also highlighted the importance of giving Akib a chance to prove himself in international cricket, as his performances in domestic cricket have been exceptional. Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan has also weighed in on Akib's strengths.#jasprit_bumrah #irfan_pathan #jammu_and_kashmir #akib_nabi #wasim_jaffer

Jammu and Kashmir's Akib Nabi Selected for India's Test Team Amid Jasprit Bumrah Injury Jammu and Kashmir's cricketer Akib Nabi has been selected for India's senior Test team for the upcoming Sri Lanka tour, replacing injured fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah. The decision follows Bumrah's ongoing recovery from a left knee injury sustained during the England series, which has left him unfit for the two Test matches against Sri Lanka. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed Nabi's inclusion, marking his first appearance in the senior Indian squad. Nabi, a right-handed medium-pacer, has made a name for himself in domestic cricket. In the 2024-25 Ranji Trophy season, he claimed 104 wickets, playing a pivotal role in Jammu and Kashmir's historic Ranji Trophy title win. His performances also earned him a place in the India-A squad for the Sri Lanka tour, where he took six wickets in two first-class matches. If selected for the Test squad, Nabi will become Jammu and Kashmir's first Test cricketer. Nabi's journey to the national team has been marked by perseverance. He made his first-class debut in 2020 and has since taken 162 wickets in 43 matches, with a best of seven wickets for 24 runs. His consistency in domestic cricket, including a hat-trick in the Delhi State Cricket Association tournament, has drawn attention from selectors. Despite a lackluster IPL 2025 campaign with Delhi Capitals—where he failed to take a wicket in five matches—Nabi's economy bowling and disciplined approach have kept him in the spotlight. Nabi's determination is rooted in his upbringing. Born in Bara Muqam, Jammu and Kashmir, he grew up in a family with limited resources.#jasprit_bumrah #jammu_and_kashmir #board_of_control_for_crickey_in_india #srilanka #akib_nabi

Aqib Nabi Joins Indian Test Squad as Jasprit Bumrah's Injury Forces Replacement Aqib Nabi has been called up to the Indian Test squad for the upcoming series against Sri Lanka following the injury absence of Jasprit Bumrah. The left-arm pacer, who hails from Jammu and Kashmir, will replace Bumrah in the pace attack, marking his debut in the Test team. This makes Nabi the third player from Jammu and Kashmir to represent India in Test cricket and the first to feature in the squad for a Test series. Bumrah’s inclusion in the squad was initially expected, but he has been ruled out due to a knee injury sustained during the recent Ranji Trophy season. The injury has prevented him from participating in the Test series against Sri Lanka, which is set to begin on August 15 in Galle. Nabi’s selection comes as a strategic move to bolster the pace department, which will also include Mohammed Shami, Prasidh Krishna, and Gurkeerat Singh Brar. Nabi, known for his pace of 130-135 km/h, has been a key player for Jammu and Kashmir in domestic cricket. Over the past few seasons, he has accumulated 104 wickets in the Ranji Trophy, with 60 of those coming in the last season alone. His contributions were instrumental in Jammu and Kashmir’s Ranji Trophy championship win, further solidifying his credentials for the national team. The decision to include Nabi follows the exclusion of several other players due to injuries. Nitish Rana, Harshith Rana, and Washington Sundar were left out of the squad due to fitness concerns. Meanwhile, Suryakumar Yadav’s return to the Test fold remains uncertain after he sustained a foot injury during a recent India A tour in Sri Lanka.#sri_lanka #jasprit_bumrah #jammu_and_kashmir #ranji_trophy #aqib_nabi

Owais Yaqoob: Pulwama's MMA Hero Returns Home After Bulgaria Win Kashmiri mixed martial arts fighter Owais Yaqoob returned to his hometown of Pulwama in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday, greeted as a hero after securing a decisive victory over Bulgarian opponent Delyan Georgiev in a recent match. The win, which drew over 1.6 million live viewers in India, marked a significant milestone in Yaqoob’s career and reignited national pride. The 28-year-old, known for his resilience and determination, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he received from fans across the country. Yaqoob’s triumph in Bulgaria came despite facing multiple health challenges leading up to the fight. He revealed that he had suffered a foot injury, a shoulder injury, and a fever, compounded by a cold, all of which he kept hidden from his team to avoid being perceived as making excuses. “When I left from here, first, I had an injury in the foot, and then my shoulder got injured. After that, we went and travelled for 40 hours, and as soon as I reached the fight week, I got a fever and a cold,” he explained. Yaqoob emphasized that his focus remained on the competition, stating, “Our focus remains on the fact that we are still hungry and we need to do more.” The victory was not only a personal achievement but also a moment of collective celebration for the nation. Yaqoob highlighted the emotional connection he felt with his supporters, noting that their encouragement fueled his training and ambition. “Their emotions are connected to me, and that is a huge achievement. People give me the motivation to train,” he said. He also expressed excitement about his upcoming match in Istanbul, where he will compete in a grappling event featuring major UFC fighters.#jammu_and_kashmir #bulgaria #owais_yaqoob #pulwama #delyan_georgiev

Two Migrant Workers Killed in Terror Attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam District Two migrant workers were killed in a terrorist attack in Kulgam district of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday evening. The incident occurred in Kellam village, where attackers targeted two non-local laborers. According to police sources, the terrorists opened fire on the men, resulting in the immediate death of one victim. The second individual, who was transported to a hospital, succumbed to his injuries later. Both victims, identified as Deepak and Bhupender, were residents of Chhattisgarh. The attack has prompted a major cordon and search operation in the region to locate the perpetrators. This incident marks the second targeted attack by terrorists in the past 10 days. Last week, a policeman was killed in a similar attack in Anantnag district. Following the Kulgam incident, authorities launched a widespread police crackdown across Kashmir, resulting in the detention of over 3,000 suspects. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed concerns about the mass detentions, warning that such measures could exacerbate the situation. He argued that the detentions may fuel further unrest and undermine efforts to restore stability. The attacks have occurred amid the ongoing Amarnath Yatra, a major pilgrimage that draws thousands of devotees to the region. To ensure security during the yatra, the government has deployed an additional 670 companies of paramilitary troops, supplementing the existing security infrastructure in Kashmir. The Amarnath Yatra, which typically sees a surge in tourist activity, has been accompanied by heightened security measures to prevent potential threats. The recent attacks have raised questions about the safety of the region and the effectiveness of counterterrorism strategies.#jammu_and_kashmir #amarnath_yatra #omar_abdullah #kulgam_district #kellam_village

Red alert for rain: Major five-day wet spell to lash J&K Jammu and Kashmir is preparing for a prolonged period of intense rainfall, with the Meteorological Department forecasting widespread rain, heavy downpours, and the possibility of cloudburst-like events between July 19 and July 23. Authorities have issued advisories urging residents, pilgrims, and tourists to remain cautious as the weather system is expected to trigger multiple hazards across the Union Territory. The weather advisory, issued by the Meteorological Department in Srinagar, highlights that the extended wet spell is likely due to a rare interaction between moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, combined with the northward shift of the western end of the monsoon trough toward Jammu. This system is projected to bring widespread moderate rain and thundershowers across Jammu and Kashmir, with isolated heavy rainfall in the Kashmir division between July 21 and 23. The Jammu division is expected to face scattered heavy to very heavy rainfall from July 20 to 23, with Reasi and Udhampur districts at the highest risk of extremely heavy downpours. Dr. Mukhtar Ahmad, Director of the Meteorological Centre in Srinagar, emphasized the potential for weather-related hazards. "We expect widespread rainfall activity during the next five days. Some places, particularly in Jammu division, may receive heavy to very heavy rainfall, while isolated heavy showers are also likely in parts of Kashmir. People are advised to follow official advisories and avoid unnecessary travel to vulnerable areas during periods of intense rainfall," he stated. The advisory warns of flash floods, landslides, mudslides, shooting stones, and cloudburst-like events, especially along the Pir Panjal range and other mountainous regions.#meteorological_department #jammu_and_kashmir #dr_mukhtar_ahmad #amarnath_yatra #pir_panjal_range

Floods and Landslides Kill at Least 12 in Jammu and Kashmir's Border Districts Torrential rains unleashed catastrophic landslides and flash floods across the twin border districts of Poonch and Rajouri in Jammu and Kashmir on July 19, 2026, resulting in at least 12 deaths, several missing persons, and widespread destruction of infrastructure. The disaster prompted large-scale rescue operations as officials scrambled to address the crisis. Poonch district, located in the Pir Panjal valley, was the hardest-hit area, with flash floods sweeping away homes in Lower Murrah, Bufliaz, and Surankote tehsil. At least 16 people were feared dead in Poonch, with nine bodies recovered so far, while rescue teams worked to locate four missing civilians. The floods also devastated Rajouri and Kishtwar districts, where heavy rainfall triggered flash floods that damaged public property, washed away vehicles, and disrupted traffic due to landslides. Authorities temporarily suspended the Amarnath Yatra pilgrimage in Kashmir and canceled visits to the Mata Vaishno Devi and Shiv Khori shrines after the India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted prolonged rainfall. The disaster unfolded in the early hours of July 19, 2026, when Mohammad Latief, an elderly resident of Lower Muran in Surankote tehsil, attempted to move his SUV to higher ground. Moments later, a cloudburst unleashed a torrent of mud, rocks, and floodwater, collapsing his three-story house and burying eight family members beneath the rubble. Latief survived by chance, while his elder son, who was away in Jammu, escaped the tragedy.#jammu_and_kashmir #imdad #poonch_district #rajouri_district #amarnath_yatra

Monsoon In Bursts: Why Several States Are Flooded In 'Below-Normal' Year The first eight days of July brought a sharp increase in rainfall across several parts of the country, triggering floods, landslides, and cloudbursts despite an overall southwest monsoon rainfall deficit of 15.2% for the season. According to the India Meteorological Department, cumulative rainfall from June 1 to July 8, 2026, totaled 195.5 mm, falling short of the 1971-2020 normal of 230.4 mm. This deficit has raised concerns about the distribution of rainfall, as intense but short-lived downpours have caused widespread damage even in regions with below-normal totals. The uneven pattern of rainfall has led to extreme weather events in multiple states. In Kerala, Wayanad district experienced a 56% rainfall deficit since the monsoon began, yet heavy rain over two days in early July triggered landslides that killed five people. Despite the district remaining 26% below normal for the season, the concentrated rainfall on July 7 and 8—41% and 27% above normal, respectively—highlighted the risk of flooding and landslides in deficit areas. Similarly, Jammu and Kashmir faced cloudbursts, including in Doda district, where intense rainfall of 100 mm or more within an hour damaged homes, roads, and infrastructure. While most districts in the region remained in the normal or deficit category, areas like Samba and Udhampur recorded 83% and 79% excess rainfall, respectively. Maharashtra also saw severe impacts, with heavy rain causing flooding, waterlogging, and landslides in several districts. Mumbai and surrounding areas faced widespread disruption, including traffic gridlock and stranded vehicles. In Gurugram, major roads became severely waterlogged, halting normal activities.#maharashtra #climate_change #india_meteorological_department #jammu_and_kashmir #kerala_wayanad

A 12-Year-Old Kashmiri Student Criticizes Education Minister Over Summer Holidays; FIR Filed A video of a 12-year-old Kashmiri student criticizing education minister Sakina Itto for not declaring summer holidays despite soaring temperatures has gone viral on social media, sparking a public debate and prompting authorities to file a FIR. The incident unfolded in Jammu and Kashmir, where temperatures reached 35 degrees Celsius, and the child’s remarks have drawn both support and condemnation. The video, which has been widely shared online, shows the boy accusing the minister of hypocrisy. He questions whether she would allow children to attend school during the heat, stating, “I don’t think the minister has such children who go to school. She herself would be sitting in an AC room.” The child also mocks her statement about the necessity of summer holidays, saying, “What is the point of declaring summer holidays?” Typically, schools in the Kashmir Valley announce two-week summer breaks in July and August, but this year’s announcement came later, with holidays declared from July 6 to July 19. The controversy escalated after the video’s release, with social media users divided. Some praised the child’s honesty, calling it a reflection of the public’s frustration with bureaucratic inaction. Others condemned the remarks, arguing they undermine societal values and the child’s upbringing. The situation gained further traction when the Mirwaiz, a prominent religious leader, expressed concern, warning that exposing children to public scrutiny without their consent could harm their well-being. The Child Welfare Committee (CWC) intervened, ordering the removal of the video and filing an FIR against the news portal that first uploaded it.#jammu_and_kashmir #child_welfare_committee #kashmiri_student #sakina_itto #mirwaiz

Monsoon Intensifies Across India, Bringing Relief from Heat and Heavy Rainfall in 22 States The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued updated forecasts indicating a significant acceleration in the monsoon's activity across the country. From July 4 to July 10, 2026, widespread to extremely heavy rainfall is expected in nearly all regions of India, accompanied by strong winds, thunderstorms, and lightning. The weather patterns are anticipated to shift the monsoon's intensity, providing much-needed relief from the ongoing heatwave. In the northern and western regions, including Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, and Rajasthan, heavy downpours with gusty winds of 40-50 km/h are likely. The IMD has issued alerts for these areas, warning of potential disruptions due to the severe weather. Similarly, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are expected to experience heavy to very heavy rainfall from July 4 to 10. In the plains, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, and Punjab are forecasted to see continuous rainfall from July 6 to 8. Uttar Pradesh will also face active monsoon activity, with heavy rainfall expected in western Uttar Pradesh from July 8 to 10 and eastern Uttar Pradesh from July 7 to 10. Eastern Rajasthan will remain under the influence of the monsoon until July 10. The eastern states, including West Bengal, Sikkim, Jharkhand, and Odisha, will witness heightened monsoon activity from July 4 to 8. Odisha, in particular, is expected to face intense rainfall on July 4, with localized heavy downpours. Jharkhand will also experience lightning strikes at moderate to high speeds during this period. Bihar is projected to see scattered to widespread rainfall from July 4 to 10, with heavy rainfall likely between July 5 and 7.#india_meteorological_department #haryana #jammu_and_kashmir #punjab #ladakh #ladakh

Gujarat-MP: Jaish-e-Mohammad Terrorists Nabbed; Network Building Exposed The Gujarat Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) has arrested eight individuals linked to the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorist organization, which is based in Pakistan. The suspects were apprehended from various districts in Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh, with two of them being minors aged 18 and 19 years. These individuals were part of an active network in Gujarat aimed at facilitating terrorist activities. The ATS has initiated investigations into their activities, which included establishing a network to support extremist operations. JeM, founded by Maulana Masood Azhar in 2000, is a Pakistan-based militant group accused of orchestrating attacks across multiple countries, including India. The organization operates training camps and networks in Pakistan’s Punjab province, where its headquarters is located. Masood Azhar was arrested in Jammu and Kashmir in 1994 but was released in December 1999 as part of a deal following the hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC-814. In a separate operation, the Gujarat ATS also detained two individuals suspected of planning a "gazwa-e-hind" (jihad in India) through social media platforms. These suspects were allegedly using apps that automatically delete content to spread extremist ideologies. Both were placed under 11-day police remand. Additionally, the ATS arrested four members of Al-Qaeda, including two from Gujarat, one from Delhi, and one from Noida. These individuals were involved in counterfeit currency operations and efforts to connect with extremist groups. The arrests highlight the ongoing efforts by Indian authorities to dismantle terrorist networks operating within the country.#jammu_and_kashmir #jaishemohammad #gujarat_anti_terrorism_squad #masood_azhar #al_qaeda

Shia Muslims in Srinagar Participate in Peaceful Muharram Procession Hundreds of Shia Muslim mourners gathered in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, on Wednesday to participate in a traditional Muharram procession, marking the third consecutive year the event has been permitted under strict security measures. The procession, which moved peacefully from Guru Bazar to Dalgate, highlighted the community’s cultural and religious practices while emphasizing the authorities’ commitment to ensuring public safety. The event began with black flags adorning the streets as volunteers set up refreshment stalls to provide water and cold drinks to participants. Mourners, dressed in black, gathered in large numbers to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad. They beat their chests in solemn remembrance of the historical tragedy at Karbala, a pivotal moment in Islamic history. Security arrangements were extensive, with traffic officials implementing special route regulations to grant the procession a traffic-free passage. An alternative route was also established for those arriving from outside the city, and parking was organized for participants in areas like Batmaloo. Medical teams were stationed along the route to address any health concerns, reflecting the authorities’ proactive approach to managing the event. The procession followed a disciplined path through key locations, including Budshah Chowk and Maulana Azad Road, before concluding at Dalgate. Senior civil and police officials remained present throughout to monitor the event and prevent any disruptions. No incidents were reported, underscoring the success of the security measures.#srinagar #jammu_and_kashmir #shia_muslims #imam_hussain #karbala

PDP Accuses NC Government of Institutionalised Corruption in Pacemaker Scandal Opposition leader Iltija Mufti of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) accused the National Conference (NC) government of Jammu and Kashmir of institutionalised corruption after an alleged “pacemaker scam” emerged at the Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag. Mufti claimed the scandal exposed systemic mismanagement, with cardiologists at the hospital performing unnecessary advanced cardiac surgeries on patients who did not require them. The inquiry into procedural irregularities at the institution revealed that nearly 50% of patients who underwent such procedures did not need them, raising concerns about fraudulent practices. The investigation by the Jammu and Kashmir Health and Medical Education Department uncovered evidence of manipulated medical records, fraudulent insurance claims, and patient exploitation. Dr. Syed Maqbool, a cardiologist at GMC Anantnag, was specifically named in the inquiry for alleged large-scale procedural irregularities. Mufti accused the NC government of prioritizing financial misconduct over healthcare, stating that instead of addressing the state’s collapsing healthcare system, officials had shifted blame to the PDP. Mufti also criticized the NC government for allegedly misusing public funds, citing allegations of charging excessive fees for transferring doctors and government officers. She accused Health Minister Sakina Itoo of fostering an “unprofessional and uneducated work culture” and claimed her leadership had worsened healthcare services, putting lives at risk. The PDP further demanded accountability, questioning how the government could address such issues while facing serious allegations of financial misconduct.#jammu_and_kashmir #pdp #nc_government #gmc_anantnag #dr_syed_maqbool

Jammu and Kashmir Suspends Doctor Over Alleged Misrepresentation Under PMJAY-SEHAT Scheme The Jammu and Kashmir government suspended Dr. Syed Maqbool Ahmad Shah, an associate professor of cardiology at Government Medical College (GMC), Anantnag, on June 20, 2026, following allegations of misrepresenting 103 cardiac procedures under the PMJAY-SEHAT scheme. The suspension was ordered after an inquiry was initiated following a complaint about the doctor’s alleged misconduct. Health Minister Sakina Itoo emphasized that the investigation revealed serious discrepancies, and the doctor would be given an opportunity to present his case before a final determination was made. Dr. Maqbool, who was affiliated with GMC Anantnag in south Kashmir, faced accusations of falsifying medical records. According to the preliminary investigation report, he allegedly performed Left Bundle Branch Area Pacing (LBBAP) procedures but claimed reimbursement for Dual Chamber Pacemaker packages. The State Health Agency (SHA) flagged the discrepancy after noticing an unusual spike in LBBAP cases, prompting an expert review by the Head of Department (HoD) of Cardiology at SKIMS, Soura. The expert panel concluded that LBBAP is a highly specialized procedure with strict clinical guidelines. They found that 27 out of 55 patients (49%) had normal left ventricular (LV) function and wide QRS morphology, which made the LBBAP procedure medically unnecessary for those individuals. The investigation further alleged that Dr. Maqbool engaged in “flagrant procedural misrepresentation.#jammu_and_kashmir #dr_syed_maqbool_ahmad_shah #government_medical_college_gmc_anantnag #pmjaysehat_scheme #state_health_agency_sha

MeT forecasts rain, storms across J&K; flash flood, mudslide risk looms The Meteorological Centre Srinagar issued warnings of rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds across Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting the risk of flash floods and mudslides in vulnerable regions. The forecast spans multiple days, with the weather department advising caution due to the potential for lightning, hailstorms, and strong winds. Temperatures in the region remained above normal, with Srinagar recording 31.5°C and Jammu hitting 41.8°C, both significantly higher than seasonal averages. The Valley and Jammu areas have experienced intermittent rainfall in recent days, prompting authorities to urge residents to avoid outdoor activities and stay clear of unstable structures during adverse weather. On Friday, the Meteorological Centre Srinagar predicted light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, and gusty winds for the coming days, with isolated areas facing flash floods and mudslides. The department emphasized that weather conditions on June 12 would remain partly to generally cloudy, with light to moderate rain and brief intense showers expected at several locations. Thunderstorms, lightning, and winds reaching 40-50 kmph, with gusts up to 60 kmph, were also flagged as possible. For the period from June 13 to June 17, the forecast maintained partly cloudy skies with light rain, thunderstorms, and gusty winds at scattered spots. Similar conditions were expected on June 18 and 19. The advisory stressed the need for vigilance, as thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms, and strong winds could occur during the day. The department warned that brief intense showers in isolated areas of both Kashmir and Jammu divisions could trigger flash floods and mudslides.#srinagar #jammu_and_kashmir #kashmir #jammu #meteorological_centre_srinagar

Jammu and Kashmir Braces for Rain and Storms Amid Heatwave The Meteorological Department in Srinagar has issued forecasts indicating that the region will experience a dramatic shift in weather patterns as a heatwave grips Jammu and Kashmir. While hot and dry conditions are expected to persist on Thursday, the department warned that rainfall accompanied by thunderstorms, lightning, hailstorms, and gusty winds will sweep across the area starting from Friday. This transition comes as temperatures have surged to unprecedented levels over the past several days, with heatwave-like conditions anticipated to intensify around mid-June. According to the latest weather outlook, June 12 is projected to bring some relief, with generally cloudy skies and intermittent light to moderate rain, brief intense showers, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds. Wind speeds are expected to reach 40-50 kmph, with gusts potentially exceeding 60 kmph in parts of both south and north Kashmir. The advisory highlights the potential for severe weather events, including hailstorms and lightning, which could pose risks to infrastructure and public safety. From June 13 to June 17, the weather is likely to remain partly to generally cloudy, with scattered locations experiencing light rain, brief intense showers, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds. The Meteorological Centre has also issued a warning about the possibility of thundershowers, lightning, and hailstorms occurring in isolated to scattered areas during the evenings of June 11 and 12. These conditions are expected to create challenges for residents, particularly in the wake of prolonged dry spells. Authorities have raised concerns about the potential for flash floods and mudslides, especially in isolated areas of both the Kashmir and Jammu divisions, between June 11 and 14.#srinagar #jammu_and_kashmir #kashmir #jammu #metropolitan_department