JAMMU
After enjoying ruling Jammu and Kashmir since 2019, BJP is facing music. Knowing that the 2024 polls will be very difficult, some of its leaders have deserted the party. There is widespread discontent. Recently, Kashmira Singh and Chander Mohan Sharma resigned in protest. Singh cited his exclusion from ticket consideration after decades with the party, while Sharma, dissatisfied with the choice of candidates, announced his intent to run as an independent from Jammu East. The BJP’s internal strife is exacerbated by recent resignations from key positions, including the district vice-president of Ramban and others in Channapora constituency. The party’s decision to field new or outsider candidates has fuelled frustration among long-time members. Despite BJP national general secretary Tarun Chugh’s and Ram Madhav’s assertion of internal democracy, the party’s handling of ticket distribution and failure to address regional grievances have heightened tensions. Party insiders said reaching a 20-seat figure is a problem. The party is flying almost 100 top leaders to campaign but Jammu seems not impressed this time.
MUMBAI
In anticipation of the release of Tanaav 2, filmmaker Sudhir Mishra and actor Ekta Kaul reflect on their experiences with the series, set in Kashmir. Mishra, renowned for his work on the show, praised Kashmir’s warm and welcoming environment, highlighting how the region’s natural beauty alleviates any production challenges. He emphasised that Tanaav 2 builds on the first season, introducing new dynamics among characters while aiming to balance perspectives on both protagonists and antagonists. Mishra’s focus for the sequel includes a nuanced portrayal of female characters and exploring the complexities within both “good” and “bad” roles. Ekta Kaul, who stars in the series, expressed excitement and nervousness about the sequel, given the high expectations following the first season. She praised her co-stars and director Mishra for their professionalism and clarity, which she found deeply satisfying and educational. Kaul also shared her connection to Kashmir, noting the comfort of working close to her family in Jammu and observing significant regional development. She appreciated the inclusion of local talent in the series, seeing it as a positive step for providing opportunities in the industry. Tanaav is an Indian adaption of Israeli drama that focuses on ‘counter-terrorism’.
LANGATE
Even though the Delhi court has postponed its decision on Lok Sabha MP Engineer Rasheed’s bail plea until September 11, his brother, two sons and others have fielded candidates across Kashmir. Sheikh Khursheed, his brother, was granted voluntary retirement from his teaching position by the Jammu and Kashmir Education Department. Khursheed plans to contest from Langate, Rasheed’s stronghold. This move has raised concerns among locals about the rise of another political family in the Valley. Rasheed, who has been jailed since 2019 on terror-funding charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, was granted custody parole on July 5, to take the oath of office after winning the Baramulla seat in the recent elections. While Rasheed won the election in absentia as his sons sought the sympathy vote, the family is now in the process of cobbling a pan-Kashmir political party.
SRINAGAR
In phase-I of the Jammu and Kashmir elections, six candidates from the Pandit community are contesting across Pulwama and Anantnag districts, diverging from the traditional Habba Kadal seat. Arun Raina, who previously ran unsuccessfully for Baramulla, is now a candidate for the Nationalist Congress Party in Rajpora, Pulwama. Sanjay Saraf of the Rashtriya Lok Janshakti Party is running in Anantnag and Habba Kadal, emphasizing the need for Pandit reintegration and addressing local issues like drug trafficking and unemployment. Other candidates, like Daisy Raina and MK Yogi, also emphasise employment, drug control, and community safety. Despite increased representation, Pandita critiques the lack of concrete plans in party manifestos for Pandit rehabilitation.
HANDWARA
The Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Conference (JKPC)’s Sajjad Lone has announced that he is contesting from two seats. In his manifesto, his party is focussing on governance, security, and socio-economic reforms. Central to it is party’s commitment to reinstating Jammu and Kashmir’s special constitutional status under Articles 370 and 35A. It also highlights the need to investigate the 1987 rigged assembly elections, which are seen as a key driver of the region’s unrest. The document addresses enhancing security, promoting peace through dialogue and socio-economic development, and reforming the electoral process to prevent future manipulation. It outlines plans for economic revival, including job creation, infrastructure development, and support for traditional industries. Additionally, the manifesto advocates for fair treatment in passport issuance, justice for conflict victims, and improvements in education and healthcare.
DOORU
During Rahul Gandhi’s Jammu Kashmir visit, the Congress party unveiled a scathing charge sheet against the BJP, accusing it of severe governance failures over the past decade. Titled Kya Khoya, Kya Paya? Jammu and Kashmir Chargesheet: Sab Kuch Khoya, Kuch Nahi Paya, the document criticises the BJP for failing to restore statehood and treating Jammu and Kashmir as a “land of broken promises.” It highlights dire economic conditions, with J&K having the second-highest unemployment rate in India and severe inflation impacting daily life. The charge sheet notes significant increases in essential prices and electricity shortages while alleging that the BJP’s policies favour outsiders over locals. It also cites rising crime rates, drug abuse, and mental health issues, linking these to the government’s alleged corruption and failure to address systemic problems. Specific corruption cases, including a Rs13,000 crore scam, are mentioned. Rahul’s tour included speeches in Jammu and Kashmir, where he condemned the BJP’s handling of the region and promised statehood restoration if the Congress-led alliance comes to power. He criticised the Lt Governor’s policies, described as autocratic, and pledged to address the issues facing locals, including unemployment and high living costs. Gandhi also highlighted the Congress-NC alliance’s commitment to restoring statehood and combating the BJP’s divisive policies.
SRINAGAR
With the Assembly elections in Kashmir approaching after a decade, a new generation of political scions is emerging. Notable candidates include Mian Mehar Ali son of veteran NC leader Mian Altaf; Salman Sagar son of Ali Mohammad Sagar, Ahsan Pardesi son Ghulam Qadir Pardesi; Yawar Banday the grandson of Abdul Majeed Banday; Tanvir Sadiq son of Sadiq Ali; Irshad Rasool Kar, son of Ghulam Rasool Kar; Sajad Shafi son of Mohammad Shafi Uri; Hilal Akbar Lone son of Mohammad Akbar Lone; and Iltija Mufti daughter of Mehbooba Mufti. Besides Abrar Rashid, son of jailed MP Engineer Rasheed, is leading his party’s campaign.
MUMBAI
The recent release of the Netflix series IC-814: The Kandahar Hijack has brought renewed attention to the 1999 hijacking of Indian Airlines Flight IC-814. A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking a ban on the series was withdrawn from the Delhi High Court. The petitioner, Surjit Singh Yadav, had challenged the series for allegedly misrepresenting the hijackers’ identities. However, following Netflix’s update of the series’ disclaimer to include the actual names of the hijackers involved in the 1999 hijacking by the Pakistan-based terror group Harkat-ul-Mujahideen, Yadav’s counsel decided not to pursue the plea. The court disposed of the case, suggesting that the series’ creators might consider adding an episode on the court proceedings related to the hijacking for completeness. Yadav’s original grievance was that the series’ portrayal, using names like Bhola and Shankar could mislead viewers and offend the Hindu community. The controversy prompted Netflix to revise its disclaimer after the central government intervened. The series, directed by Anubhav Sinha and released on August 29, is based on real events and adapted from the book Flight Into Fear.
KATRA
A landslide on the new track to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine claimed the lives of two women pilgrims and injured a six-year-old girl. The incident occurred three kilometres from Bhawan when a massive boulder and debris struck an overhead tin shed. The collapse resulted in the immediate death of one woman and severe injuries to another and a minor girl. The deceased were identified as Sapna (30) and Neha Kumari (25). LG Manoj Sinha has announced a Rs 5 lakh ex-gratia for each victim’s family. The landslide was triggered by recent rainfall, and the traditional pilgrimage route remained open despite the incident.
DODA
Despite significant investments, Trauma Hospitals in Jammu and Kashmir remain in critical disrepair due to neglect by the Health Department. Intended to provide prompt and specialised care for severe injuries, these facilities lack essential staff and equipment. The Trauma Hospital at Thathri in Doda district, built years ago, still lacks a General Surgeon and Anesthesiologist, rendering its Operation Theatre mostly unused. Similarly, the Khellani Trauma Hospital, constructed five years ago, remains underutilised as a Sub-Centre due to unfulfilled staffing requirements. The Ramban Trauma Hospital operates within the District Hospital Complex, leading to inefficient use of resources as all accident victims are treated at the District Hospital. Despite numerous review meetings stressing the need for proper staffing and equipment, the situation remains unchanged.
RAJOURI
Gujjar and Bakerwal are returning early from the high-altitude meadows with their flocks to vote in the Jammu and Kashmir assembly elections, which are being held for the first time since the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019. The election will occur in three phases, starting September 18, with the counting set for October 8. Community members are hopeful for a government that will address their specific needs, including during their seasonal migrations.
PARIS
Gunmarhdhar, a remote village in Kishtwar, has gained global recognition thanks to Sheetal Devi, a Paralympic archer who recently won bronze at the Paris Paralympics. Born with Phocomelia, Sheetal overcame significant physical challenges to excel in archery. Her achievements, including two gold medals at the Hangzhou Asian Games and viral media coverage, have put her village on the global map. Sheetal’s success has transformed her family’s life; her father, formerly a daily labourer, is now overseeing the construction of their new home funded by her cash awards. Her accomplishments inspire local youth and are anticipated to prompt infrastructural improvements in her village, including road upgrades, school refurbishments, and a reinstated bus service. Sheetal’s journey from a small village to international stardom underscores her resilience and has instilled hope for positive change in Gunmarhdhar.
JAMMU KASHMIR
The Labour Commissioner of Jammu and Kashmir has mandated that all shops and commercial establishments comply with the Close Day requirement under Section 13 of the Jammu and Kashmir Shops and Establishment Act, 1966. The directive highlights that many establishments are not observing this mandatory day off. It is illegal for employers to require employees to work or deduct wages on the Close Day. All shop owners must adhere to this regulation, and Assistant Labour Commissioners are tasked with enforcing compliance and taking legal action against violators. Compliance reports are to be submitted by the 3rd of every month.
