In a pointed remark directed at Mehbooba Mufti's People's Democratic Party (PDP), former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah declared on Friday (March 8) that he would never have joined the INDIA alliance if he had known it would require compromising his party's strength for another member of the alliance, especially one that secured the third position in the last election.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/philanthropist-author-sudha-murty-gets-nominated-to-rajya-sabha-pm-modi-hails-nari-shakti-698005">Philanthropist, author Sudha Murty gets nominated to Rajya Sabha; PM Modi hails 'Nari Shakti'</a>

Abdullah emphasised that a party standing at number 3 has no legitimate claim to demand a seat, questioning the basis for PDP's requests.

Expressing his dissatisfaction with the ongoing seat-sharing talks within the alliance, Abdullah stated that had he been informed about the necessity of weakening his own party for another alliance member, he would have refrained from joining the INDIA alliance.

This recent revelation adds to the growing discord within the alliance in Jammu and Kashmir.

Earlier, National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah had announced the party's decision to go solo in the elections, although Omar Abdullah had initially clarified the party's commitment to the INDIA bloc without any apparent cracks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-bjd-strike-deal-on-lok-sabha-and-assembly-seats-reports-698009">BJP, BJD strike deal on Lok Sabha and Assembly seats: Reports</a>

However, the current rift between the National Conference and the PDP suggests significant challenges in achieving a unified front.

Referring to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, where the BJP secured victories in Ladakh, Udhampur Jammu, and the National Conference claimed victories in Baramulla, Srinagar and Anantnag, Omar Abdullah highlighted the PDP's third-place finish with less than four percent of the vote share.

He emphasised his reluctance to compromise the Anantnag seat for the PDP and specified that his party would consider relinquishing the seat only if contested by Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, or Priyanka Gandhi—not for Mehbooba Mufti's party.&nbsp;

The unfolding dynamics within the INDIA alliance underscore the challenges and differences among its members, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a pointed remark directed at Mehbooba Mufti's People's Democratic Party (PDP), former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah declared on Friday (March 8) that he would never have joined the INDIA alliance if he had known it would require compromising his party's strength for another member of the alliance, especially one that secured the third position in the last election.

In a pointed remark directed at Mehbooba Mufti's People's Democratic Party (PDP), former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister and National Conference leader Omar Abdullah declared on Friday (March 8) that he would never have joined the INDIA alliance if he had known it would require compromising his party's strength for another member of the alliance, especially one that secured the third position in the last election. Also read: Philanthropist, author Sudha Murty gets nominated to Rajya Sabha; PM Modi hails 'Nari Shakti' Abdullah emphasised that a party standing at number 3 has no legitimate claim to demand a seat, questioning the basis for PDP's requests. Expressing his dissatisfaction with the ongoing seat-sharing talks within the alliance, Abdullah stated that had he been informed about the necessity of weakening his own party for another alliance member, he would have refrained from joining the INDIA alliance. This recent revelation adds to the growing discord within the alliance in Jammu and Kashmir. Earlier, National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah had announced the party's decision to go solo in the elections, although Omar Abdullah had initially clarified the party's commitment to the INDIA bloc without any apparent cracks. Also read: BJP, BJD strike deal on Lok Sabha and Assembly seats: Reports However, the current rift between the National Conference and the PDP suggests significant challenges in achieving a unified front. Referring to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, where the BJP secured victories in Ladakh, Udhampur Jammu, and the National Conference claimed victories in Baramulla, Srinagar and Anantnag, Omar Abdullah highlighted the PDP's third-place finish with less than four percent of the vote share. He emphasised his reluctance to compromise the Anantnag seat for the PDP and specified that his party would consider relinquishing the seat only if contested by Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, or Priyanka Gandhi—not for Mehbooba Mufti's party. The unfolding dynamics within the INDIA alliance underscore the challenges and differences among its members, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir. (With inputs from agencies)

India elections 2024: Omar Abdullah takes swipe at Mehbooba Mufti's PDP amid J&K seat-sharing talks

Vivek Agnihotri's The Kashmir Files won big at the 69th National Film Awards. The film bagged the Nargis Dutt Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration. Soon after the winners were announced, former Chief Minister of Jammu &amp; Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, was quick to react to the film's win.&nbsp;

Mocking Vivek Agnihotri's film that was based on the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits, Omar re-shared a post on X, previously known as Twitter, and wrote, ''National Integration'' along with a laughing emoji.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-national-awards-2023-alia-bhatt-and-kriti-sanon-congratulate-each-other-on-their-joint-win-628850">National Awards 2023: Alia Bhatt and Kriti Sanon congratulate each other on joint win</a>

Reacting to Omar's sarcastic reaction, the director wrote, "This is the biggest award coming from you @OmarAbdullah. If you had commented otherwise, I would have been very disappointed. Thanks again."

The film&nbsp;told the heart-wrenching stories of the attacks on Kashmiri Pandits and their exodus in the 1990s and showed the genocide that took place back then. At the time of its release, the film stirred a huge controversy on social media with politicians and many big personalities calling it a propaganda&nbsp;film and demanding its ban.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
This is the biggest award coming from you <a href="https://twitter.com/OmarAbdullah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OmarAbdullah</a>. If you had commented otherwise, I would have been very disappointed. Thanks again. <a href="https://t.co/ka7SC18lPB">https://t.co/ka7SC18lPB</a>
— Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri (@vivekagnihotri) <a href="https://twitter.com/vivekagnihotri/status/1694727947465232417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Despite multiple controversies around the film, it emerged as the biggest blockbuster of 2022.

Apart from Omar, Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin also reacted to the film getting the award. Congratulating the National Award winners, Stalin questioned the Kashmir Files winning the award.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/emotional-allu-arjun-gives-sukumar-a-tight-hug-after-national-film-award-best-actor-win-watch-628848">Emotional Allu Arjun gives Sukumar a tight hug after National Film Best Actor Award win - Watch</a>&nbsp;

In the post, Stalin wrote on X, ''It is surprising that a film that was ignored by neutral film critics as a controversial film has been awarded the National Integrity #NargisDutt award.''

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/69thNationalFilmAwards?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#69thNationalFilmAwards</a> -இல் தமிழில் சிறந்த படமாகத் தேர்வாகியிருக்கும் <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%AE%95%E0%AE%9F%E0%AF%88%E0%AE%9A%E0%AE%BF%E0%AE%B5%E0%AE%BF%E0%AE%B5%E0%AE%9A%E0%AE%BE%E0%AE%AF%E0%AE%BF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#கடைசிவிவசாயி</a> படக்குழுவினருக்கு என் பாராட்டுகள்! <a href="https://twitter.com/VijaySethuOffl?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VijaySethuOffl</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Manikandan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Manikandan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%AE%A8%E0%AE%B2%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%B2%E0%AE%BE%E0%AE%A3%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%9F%E0%AE%BF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#நல்லாண்டி</a> 
 
மேலும், <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E0%AE%87%E0%AE%B0%E0%AE%B5%E0%AE%BF%E0%AE%A9%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%A8%E0%AE%BF%E0%AE%B4%E0%AE%B2%E0%AF%8D?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#இரவின்நிழல்</a> படத்தில் ‘மாயவா சாயவா’ பாடலுக்காகச் சிறந்த பின்னணிப் பாடகி விருதை வென்றுள்ள <a href="https://twitter.com/shreyaghoshal?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@shreyaghoshal</a>,… <a href="https://t.co/Bc2veRY5gs">pic.twitter.com/Bc2veRY5gs</a>
— M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) <a href="https://twitter.com/mkstalin/status/1694718118860607830?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He wrote, ''The absence of political bias in the literature and film awards makes the awards a timeless honour. The dignity of national awards should not be compromised for cheap politics.''

After the awards were announced, Vivek <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-vivek-agnihotri-wins-national-award-for-the-kashmir-files-dedicates-award-to-victims-of-terrorism-628842">dedicated </a>the awards to "all the victims of terrorism, especially the Kashmiri Hindus”.

“The National Film Award is India’s most prestigious award. I have always said that The Kashmir Files was never my film, it is the people’s film. I am just the medium," said the maker in a statement.

“The terrorism that Kashmiri Hindus, Sikhs, Christians and Muslims have faced, the film is their voice. It has voiced their pain, which the whole world has heard now,'' Agnihotri said.&nbsp;

''We worked day in and day out to take it to the world and now the National Award has validated our hard work. I and my production house dedicate this victory to all the victims of terrorism especially the Kashmiri Hindus, and to every Indian who has been a victim of terrorism,” he said.

Pallavi Joshi also bagged the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress for the same film.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

&nbsp;

Vivek Agnihotri's The Kashmir Files won big at the 69th National Film Awards. The film bagged the Nargis Dutt Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration.

Vivek Agnihotri's The Kashmir Files won big at the 69th National Film Awards. The film bagged the Nargis Dutt Award for Best Feature Film on National Integration. Soon after the winners were announced, former Chief Minister of Jammu & Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, was quick to react to the film's win. Mocking Vivek Agnihotri's film that was based on the exodus of Kashmiri Pandits, Omar re-shared a post on X, previously known as Twitter, and wrote, ''National Integration'' along with a laughing emoji. Also read: National Awards 2023: Alia Bhatt and Kriti Sanon congratulate each other on joint win Reacting to Omar's sarcastic reaction, the director wrote, "This is the biggest award coming from you @OmarAbdullah. If you had commented otherwise, I would have been very disappointed. Thanks again." The film told the heart-wrenching stories of the attacks on Kashmiri Pandits and their exodus in the 1990s and showed the genocide that took place back then. At the time of its release, the film stirred a huge controversy on social media with politicians and many big personalities calling it a propaganda film and demanding its ban. This is the biggest award coming from you @OmarAbdullah. If you had commented otherwise, I would have been very disappointed. Thanks again. https://t.co/ka7SC18lPB — Vivek Ranjan Agnihotri (@vivekagnihotri) August 24, 2023 × Despite multiple controversies around the film, it emerged as the biggest blockbuster of 2022. Apart from Omar, Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin also reacted to the film getting the award. Congratulating the National Award winners, Stalin questioned the Kashmir Files winning the award. Also read: Emotional Allu Arjun gives Sukumar a tight hug after National Film Best Actor Award win - Watch In the post, Stalin wrote on X, ''It is surprising that a film that was ignored by neutral film critics as a controversial film has been awarded the National Integrity #NargisDutt award.'' #69thNationalFilmAwards -இல் தமிழில் சிறந்த படமாகத் தேர்வாகியிருக்கும் #கடைசிவிவசாயி படக்குழுவினருக்கு என் பாராட்டுகள்! @VijaySethuOffl #Manikandan #நல்லாண்டி மேலும், #இரவின்நிழல் படத்தில் ‘மாயவா சாயவா’ பாடலுக்காகச் சிறந்த பின்னணிப் பாடகி விருதை வென்றுள்ள @shreyaghoshal,… pic.twitter.com/Bc2veRY5gs — M.K.Stalin (@mkstalin) August 24, 2023 × He wrote, ''The absence of political bias in the literature and film awards makes the awards a timeless honour. The dignity of national awards should not be compromised for cheap politics.'' After the awards were announced, Vivek dedicated the awards to "all the victims of terrorism, especially the Kashmiri Hindus”. “The National Film Award is India’s most prestigious award. I have always said that The Kashmir Files was never my film, it is the people’s film. I am just the medium," said the maker in a statement. “The terrorism that Kashmiri Hindus, Sikhs, Christians and Muslims have faced, the film is their voice. It has voiced their pain, which the whole world has heard now,'' Agnihotri said. ''We worked day in and day out to take it to the world and now the National Award has validated our hard work. I and my production house dedicate this victory to all the victims of terrorism especially the Kashmiri Hindus, and to every Indian who has been a victim of terrorism,” he said. Pallavi Joshi also bagged the National Film Award for Best Supporting Actress for the same film. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former J&K CM Omar Abdullah pokes fun at The Kashmir Files' National Award, Vivek Agnihotri reacts

Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir and Vice President of National Conference party&nbsp;Omar Abdullah walked from his residence to his party headquarters office 'Nawai Subah' on Thursday. Omar alleged that he was denied the security cover to come out of his house as he was scheduled to pay tribute to the martyrs of July 13.&nbsp;

"I had no intention to walk to the office today, I am not used to doing drama but today they forced me to walk to work. They did not give me the security to leave my place as I was scheduled to pay tribute to the martyrs of July 13. I will have to do such things if they don't allow me," said Abdullah. &nbsp;

He also said that the governments keep on changing. If this government changed the holiday of July 13 Martyrs' Day, then a new government can change it too. "The governments change, the decisions change. I am sure this phase will change too, like the way they cancelled the holiday of 1931 Martyr's Day, I am sure the new government will change this and other holidays too," he said.&nbsp;

While responding to the question about the future of Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah said, "They (BJP) can't ruin our future more, the supreme court has said that political affidavits will not have any impact on the final verdict. The day judges were brought here, this Gupkar Road was closed. If LG's cavalcade has to move, the whole traffic is brought to stand still. Is&nbsp;this what we call normal? Even for the empty cars which go to fetch LG from the airport, they stop the traffic, is that normal?" &nbsp;

Omar alleged&nbsp;that BJP is trying to distort the history of India. "There is an attempt to distort the history of India, why would they not distort the history of J&amp;K, look at the way entire chapters have been deleted from textbooks. The writers want to withdraw their names as history is being changed," he added.&nbsp;

The LG administration put up restrictions at the graveyard in old Srinagar where martyrs of 1931 are buried. The chief ministers of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir used to visit the martyr's graveyard on 13 July to pay tributes to the martyrs.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir and Vice President of National Conference party Omar Abdullah walked from his residence to his party headquarters office 'Nawai Subah' on Thursday.

Former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir and Vice President of National Conference party Omar Abdullah walked from his residence to his party headquarters office 'Nawai Subah' on Thursday. Omar alleged that he was denied the security cover to come out of his house as he was scheduled to pay tribute to the martyrs of July 13. "I had no intention to walk to the office today, I am not used to doing drama but today they forced me to walk to work. They did not give me the security to leave my place as I was scheduled to pay tribute to the martyrs of July 13. I will have to do such things if they don't allow me," said Abdullah. He also said that the governments keep on changing. If this government changed the holiday of July 13 Martyrs' Day, then a new government can change it too. "The governments change, the decisions change. I am sure this phase will change too, like the way they cancelled the holiday of 1931 Martyr's Day, I am sure the new government will change this and other holidays too," he said. While responding to the question about the future of Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah said, "They (BJP) can't ruin our future more, the supreme court has said that political affidavits will not have any impact on the final verdict. The day judges were brought here, this Gupkar Road was closed. If LG's cavalcade has to move, the whole traffic is brought to stand still. Is this what we call normal? Even for the empty cars which go to fetch LG from the airport, they stop the traffic, is that normal?" Omar alleged that BJP is trying to distort the history of India. "There is an attempt to distort the history of India, why would they not distort the history of J&K, look at the way entire chapters have been deleted from textbooks. The writers want to withdraw their names as history is being changed," he added. The LG administration put up restrictions at the graveyard in old Srinagar where martyrs of 1931 are buried. The chief ministers of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir used to visit the martyr's graveyard on 13 July to pay tributes to the martyrs. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Martyrs Day: Omar Abdullah claims not provided security, walks to party office to pay tributes

National Conference vice-president and former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah has said that under BJP rule, there is no expectation of Article 370 being restored in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. He said that the rights of people were taken away on 5 August&nbsp;2019, adding that we should have no hope from the current dispensation.

Omar, while talking to reporters, said that he, along with his supporters, would fight for rights in a very democratic way. He said that Kashmir has been waiting for the day of the hearing of its case. The Supreme Court of India is due to hear the petition on Article 370 on&nbsp;July 11 for the first time after the abrogation of the article.

“We have been always saying that whatever has been taken away from us, there is no expectation that it will be restored by the current government. We want our rights back through legal procedure in a peaceful way and we hope that the hearing in this regard in the Supreme Court will be held frequently,” said Abdullah.

Omar Abdullah was on a visit to central Kashmir's Ganderbal District for a party meeting.

While responding to a question about Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) split he said, "It's very unfortunate, but it has become a common thing now. I don't think there is any state where they did not try to create a split or divide among the parties. They have made opposition parties targets in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Goa, Northeast and Karnataka and even the J&amp;K parties have been split and new parties have been created. It's unfortunate but it's the reality."

Indian bureaucrat Shah Feasel has withdrawn the plea he had filed in the Supreme Court with regard to Article 370.&nbsp;

"He has the right to do whatever he wants, he can take away the plea, as he was not forced to file a plea, and nobody has forced him to withdraw it," said Abdullah.&nbsp;

On elections in Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah alleged that the BJP was scared of elections in the union territory.&nbsp;

"BJP is scared of elections in Jammu and Kashmir, They don't want to hold elections here as they know that if assembly elections are held here, they will not even get 10 seats. Election is our democratic right, but we know we would not get our rights from these people. BJP is not ready to face the elections in JK," he added.

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

National Conference vice-president and former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah has said that under BJP rule, there is no expectation of Article 370 being restored in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

National Conference vice-president and former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah has said that under BJP rule, there is no expectation of Article 370 being restored in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. He said that the rights of people were taken away on 5 August 2019, adding that we should have no hope from the current dispensation. Omar, while talking to reporters, said that he, along with his supporters, would fight for rights in a very democratic way. He said that Kashmir has been waiting for the day of the hearing of its case. The Supreme Court of India is due to hear the petition on Article 370 on July 11 for the first time after the abrogation of the article. “We have been always saying that whatever has been taken away from us, there is no expectation that it will be restored by the current government. We want our rights back through legal procedure in a peaceful way and we hope that the hearing in this regard in the Supreme Court will be held frequently,” said Abdullah. Omar Abdullah was on a visit to central Kashmir's Ganderbal District for a party meeting. While responding to a question about Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) split he said, "It's very unfortunate, but it has become a common thing now. I don't think there is any state where they did not try to create a split or divide among the parties. They have made opposition parties targets in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Goa, Northeast and Karnataka and even the J&K parties have been split and new parties have been created. It's unfortunate but it's the reality." Indian bureaucrat Shah Feasel has withdrawn the plea he had filed in the Supreme Court with regard to Article 370. "He has the right to do whatever he wants, he can take away the plea, as he was not forced to file a plea, and nobody has forced him to withdraw it," said Abdullah. On elections in Jammu and Kashmir, Abdullah alleged that the BJP was scared of elections in the union territory. "BJP is scared of elections in Jammu and Kashmir, They don't want to hold elections here as they know that if assembly elections are held here, they will not even get 10 seats. Election is our democratic right, but we know we would not get our rights from these people. BJP is not ready to face the elections in JK," he added. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

No expectation of Article 370 getting restored under BJP: Omar Abdullah

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah has blamed BJP for the hostile relationship with the neighbouring countries. He said it's unfortunate that India has failed to build good relations with the neighbouring countries. China had just withdrawn the forces from Ladakh and now opened a new front in Arunachal Pradesh where the two forces got into a scuffle, he added.&nbsp;

''We are not able to build good relations with our neighbouring countries. Our relationship with Pakistan is for everyone to see. And with China, it isn't that well either. China which had intruded in Ladakh and withdrew the forces and now opened another standoff in Arunachal Pradesh where the Chinese forces fought with our forces, '' said Omar Abdullah, Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Omar also said that it was BJP Leader Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who had said that neighbours cannot be changed and it's important to build relations with neighbouring countries.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-may-soon-ban-sale-of-loose-cigarettes-542479">India may soon ban sale of loose cigarettes, smoking zones at airports may go</a>

''Vajpayee Sahab had said that friends can be changed, not neighbours.&nbsp;We cannot change our neighbours, but we can build a good relationship with them. Although it happens only when both countries want to build good relations with each other. It is also the responsibility of China to maintain a good relationship with our country,'' said Omar Abdullah, Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/several-indian-soldiers-injured-in-clashes-with-chinese-army-in-arunchal-pradesh-report-542383">Indian soldiers clash with Chinese Army in Arunachal Pradesh, injuries on both sides</a>

Omar Abdullah while talking about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra, said that Farooq Abdullah will be receiving Rahul Gandhi at Lakhanpur, the gateway of Jammu and Kashmir. He confirmed that his party National Conference will take part in Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra in J&amp;K.

Earlier while addressing a party convention, Omar Abdullah said Jammu and Kashmir's natural resources, land and Jobs are being given to outsiders after the abrogation of articles 370 and 35A. He said when they come into power after elections, &nbsp;they will pass laws to protect land, jobs and other natural resources for the people of Jammu and Kashmir only.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah has blamed BJP for the hostile relationship with the neighbouring countries. He said it's unfortunate that India has failed to build good relations with the neighbouring countries.

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah has blamed BJP for the hostile relationship with the neighbouring countries. He said it's unfortunate that India has failed to build good relations with the neighbouring countries. China had just withdrawn the forces from Ladakh and now opened a new front in Arunachal Pradesh where the two forces got into a scuffle, he added. ''We are not able to build good relations with our neighbouring countries. Our relationship with Pakistan is for everyone to see. And with China, it isn't that well either. China which had intruded in Ladakh and withdrew the forces and now opened another standoff in Arunachal Pradesh where the Chinese forces fought with our forces, '' said Omar Abdullah, Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. Omar also said that it was BJP Leader Atal Bihari Vajpayee, who had said that neighbours cannot be changed and it's important to build relations with neighbouring countries. Also read | India may soon ban sale of loose cigarettes, smoking zones at airports may go ''Vajpayee Sahab had said that friends can be changed, not neighbours. We cannot change our neighbours, but we can build a good relationship with them. Although it happens only when both countries want to build good relations with each other. It is also the responsibility of China to maintain a good relationship with our country,'' said Omar Abdullah, Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. Also read | Indian soldiers clash with Chinese Army in Arunachal Pradesh, injuries on both sides Omar Abdullah while talking about Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra, said that Farooq Abdullah will be receiving Rahul Gandhi at Lakhanpur, the gateway of Jammu and Kashmir. He confirmed that his party National Conference will take part in Rahul Gandhi's Bharat Jodo Yatra in J&K. Earlier while addressing a party convention, Omar Abdullah said Jammu and Kashmir's natural resources, land and Jobs are being given to outsiders after the abrogation of articles 370 and 35A. He said when they come into power after elections, they will pass laws to protect land, jobs and other natural resources for the people of Jammu and Kashmir only. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Former JK CM Omar Abdullah criticises BJP government over hostile relationship with neighbouring countries

Two former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir have decided to not contest the&nbsp;assembly elections. NCP leader Omar Abdullah and PDP chief&nbsp;Mehbooba Mufti have decided to not contest the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir which are to be held next year. Both of them have decided that they will not contest the elections until the central government restores statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. &nbsp;

The state of Jammu and Kashmir was converted into a Union Territory on August 4, 2019. Since then, the regional political parties in Jammu and Kashmir have been pushing for the restoration of statehood.&nbsp;

''Omar has said from the beginning&nbsp;that if the statehood is not restored, he won't&nbsp;fight elections," said National Conference patron Farooq Abdullah.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mehbooba-mufti-takes-a-dig-at-the-centre-while-congratulating-rishi-sunak-bjp-hits-back-528233">Mehbooba Mufti takes a dig at the centre while congratulating Rishi Sunak, BJP hits back</a>

PDP president Mehbooba Mufti had also said that she will not contest the assembly elections. Mehbooba had said that the next assembly election&nbsp;is not her priority, neither is attaining power.

''Election is not my priority personally. Elections will happen, and my party will participate but my priority is to fight the prevailing situation in the valley. People are suffocated, there is monitoring everywhere, they have caged our thoughts as well. There is so much suppression and so many arrests, poor boys are being taken to jails outside&nbsp;J&amp;K, unemployment&nbsp;issues. Our existence&nbsp;is under threat, the BJP is trying to finish our existence,'' said Mehbooba.&nbsp;

While both the former chief ministers have decided to not contest the upcoming assembly elections, their&nbsp;parties--National Conference and&nbsp;PDP--will be contesting the assembly polls. PDP has been pushing for a coalition between all People's&nbsp;Alliance for Gupkar Declaration&nbsp;(PAGD) parties&nbsp;with an agenda to keep BJP away from power.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Two former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir have decided to not contest the assembly elections. NCP leader Omar Abdullah and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti have decided to not contest the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir which are to be held next year.

Two former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir have decided to not contest the assembly elections. NCP leader Omar Abdullah and PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti have decided to not contest the assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir which are to be held next year. Both of them have decided that they will not contest the elections until the central government restores statehood to Jammu and Kashmir. The state of Jammu and Kashmir was converted into a Union Territory on August 4, 2019. Since then, the regional political parties in Jammu and Kashmir have been pushing for the restoration of statehood. ''Omar has said from the beginning that if the statehood is not restored, he won't fight elections," said National Conference patron Farooq Abdullah. Also Read | Mehbooba Mufti takes a dig at the centre while congratulating Rishi Sunak, BJP hits back PDP president Mehbooba Mufti had also said that she will not contest the assembly elections. Mehbooba had said that the next assembly election is not her priority, neither is attaining power. ''Election is not my priority personally. Elections will happen, and my party will participate but my priority is to fight the prevailing situation in the valley. People are suffocated, there is monitoring everywhere, they have caged our thoughts as well. There is so much suppression and so many arrests, poor boys are being taken to jails outside J&K, unemployment issues. Our existence is under threat, the BJP is trying to finish our existence,'' said Mehbooba. While both the former chief ministers have decided to not contest the upcoming assembly elections, their parties--National Conference and PDP--will be contesting the assembly polls. PDP has been pushing for a coalition between all People's Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD) parties with an agenda to keep BJP away from power.

Former Jammu and Kashmir CMs Omar and Mehbooba decide not to contest assembly elections

A schoolteacher has been shot dead by terrorists in the Gopalpora area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. The teacher has been identified as Rajni Bala. She was shot dead right outside a government high school in Gopalpora.&nbsp;

Rajni Bala was a migrant Hindu schedule cast and a teacher by profession. She was working in Kulgam since 2017. She along with her husband have been posted in this area and were living in a rented accommodation in Chawalgaam area of Kulgam.&nbsp;

According to reports, Rajni’s husband dropped her on the main road of the school and as she entered the lane, two terrorists shot her from a close range with a pistol. The locals rushed to the spot and took her to the hospital, but she succumbed on her arrival at the hospital.

“Terrorists fired upon a one-woman teacher at High School Gopalpora area of Kulgam. In this terror incident, she received critical gunshot injuries. Later she succumbed to her injuries. The lady teacher who died was a Hindu ( SC) &amp; resident of Samba (Jammu division). Terrorists involved in this gruesome terror crime will be soon identified and&nbsp;neutralised,” said IGP Kashmir Vijay Kumar.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-narendra-modi-launches-infra-projects-in-jammu-kashmir-473408/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Jammu and Kashmir Police along with the other security agencies have cordoned off the area to nab the attackers. The teachers in the school were completely heartbroken and in tears.&nbsp;

“She was about to reach the school premises and was attacked. We took her to the hospital, &nbsp;but she had died on the way, she was here for the last 8 years. She was one of the best teachers and loved by all. We recently went on a picnic together. Never expected anything like this to happen. “ said Shahida Bano, a female teacher at the same school.&nbsp;

The students at the school fainted when the incident took place. According to teachers, they were very close to Rajni Bala who used to teach social science to the 9th and 10 standard students.&nbsp;

“It was the arrival time and 5 teachers had reached the school. We are in total 8 teachers. We were getting ready for morning assembly. We heard a sound like a firecracker. The kids started shouting and when we reached the spot, she was lying there injured. She was posted here since 2017. She never wanted to get transferred from the school. It was extremely horrific. This is very unfortunate and inhumane to kill a teacher,” Fayaz Ahmad, a teacher in the same school.&nbsp;

The political parties in the valley have condemned the killing and said these civilian killings are a cause of concern. “ Rajni was from Samba District of Jammu province. A government teacher working in the Kulgam area of South Kashmir, she lost her life in a despicable targeted attack. My heart goes out to her husband Raj Kumar &amp; the rest of her family. Another home irreparably damaged by violence." said Omar Abdullah, Former Cheif Minister of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The PDP present Mehbooba Mufti questioned the government's claim of normalcy "Despite GOIs fake claims about Kashmir being normal it's obvious that targeted civilian killings are on the rise &amp; a deep cause of concern. Condemn this act of cowardice which sadly plays into the vicious anti muslim narrative spun by BJP." She tweeted.&nbsp;

According to the Jammu and Kashmir Police, 15 civilians have been killed in Kashmir Valley this year. This includes non-locals, Kashmiri pandits and locals The security agencies have intensified the anti-terror operation in the valley, so far 55 north encounters have happened so far this year and 88 terrorists are killed.&nbsp;

Watch WION's live TV here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1">&amp;times;</iframe></div>

&nbsp;
</div>

A schoolteacher has been shot dead by terrorists in the Gopalpora area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. The teacher has been identified as Rajni Bala. She was shot dead right outside a government high school in Gopalpora.

A schoolteacher has been shot dead by terrorists in the Gopalpora area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district. The teacher has been identified as Rajni Bala. She was shot dead right outside a government high school in Gopalpora. Rajni Bala was a migrant Hindu schedule cast and a teacher by profession. She was working in Kulgam since 2017. She along with her husband have been posted in this area and were living in a rented accommodation in Chawalgaam area of Kulgam. According to reports, Rajni’s husband dropped her on the main road of the school and as she entered the lane, two terrorists shot her from a close range with a pistol. The locals rushed to the spot and took her to the hospital, but she succumbed on her arrival at the hospital. “Terrorists fired upon a one-woman teacher at High School Gopalpora area of Kulgam. In this terror incident, she received critical gunshot injuries. Later she succumbed to her injuries. The lady teacher who died was a Hindu ( SC) & resident of Samba (Jammu division). Terrorists involved in this gruesome terror crime will be soon identified and neutralised,” said IGP Kashmir Vijay Kumar. The Jammu and Kashmir Police along with the other security agencies have cordoned off the area to nab the attackers. The teachers in the school were completely heartbroken and in tears. “She was about to reach the school premises and was attacked. We took her to the hospital, but she had died on the way, she was here for the last 8 years. She was one of the best teachers and loved by all. We recently went on a picnic together. Never expected anything like this to happen. “ said Shahida Bano, a female teacher at the same school. The students at the school fainted when the incident took place. According to teachers, they were very close to Rajni Bala who used to teach social science to the 9th and 10 standard students. “It was the arrival time and 5 teachers had reached the school. We are in total 8 teachers. We were getting ready for morning assembly. We heard a sound like a firecracker. The kids started shouting and when we reached the spot, she was lying there injured. She was posted here since 2017. She never wanted to get transferred from the school. It was extremely horrific. This is very unfortunate and inhumane to kill a teacher,” Fayaz Ahmad, a teacher in the same school. The political parties in the valley have condemned the killing and said these civilian killings are a cause of concern. “ Rajni was from Samba District of Jammu province. A government teacher working in the Kulgam area of South Kashmir, she lost her life in a despicable targeted attack. My heart goes out to her husband Raj Kumar & the rest of her family. Another home irreparably damaged by violence." said Omar Abdullah, Former Cheif Minister of Jammu and Kashmir. The PDP present Mehbooba Mufti questioned the government's claim of normalcy "Despite GOIs fake claims about Kashmir being normal it's obvious that targeted civilian killings are on the rise & a deep cause of concern. Condemn this act of cowardice which sadly plays into the vicious anti muslim narrative spun by BJP." She tweeted. According to the Jammu and Kashmir Police, 15 civilians have been killed in Kashmir Valley this year. This includes non-locals, Kashmiri pandits and locals The security agencies have intensified the anti-terror operation in the valley, so far 55 north encounters have happened so far this year and 88 terrorists are killed. Watch WION's live TV here:

Hindu teacher shot dead outside government school in Kashmir

In India, the political parties in the Kashmir Valley have blamed the central government for the current security situation in the Valley. Two former Chief Ministers of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, today visited the family of Kashmir actress Ambreen Bhat, who was killed by terrorists outside her house.&nbsp;

The political party leaders have said that the claim of normalcy in Kashmir Valley is far from reality. "Those who claim that the situation in the valley is normal need to be questioned. We have been saying for a long time that this situation is not normal. And those areas which were cleared of Militancy during our time, the militancy has propped up again. Areas around Srinagar as well as the whole of Srinagar had hardly any militant attacks," said Omar Abdullah.&nbsp;

Omar also said that the cycle of target killings is not stopping, and something needs to be done by the government to stop this.&nbsp;

PDP President Mehbooba Mufti also visited Ambreen's house and met with the family members. Mehbooba also blamed the central government for its "muscular policy" on Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

"The central government is not taking note of the situation and its muscular policy is worsening the situation on the ground. The central government is claiming that everything is alright in Jammu and Kashmir, which is far from the truth. Innocent People are being killed on a daily basis here. Unfortunately, central government and BJP are seeing J&amp;K through the prism of security and Muslim majority state," said Mehbooba Mufti.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir police earlier said that they killed both the terrorists involved in the killing of actress Ambreen Bhat.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

In India, the political parties in the Kashmir Valley have blamed the central government for the current security situation in the Valley. Two former Chief Ministers of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, today visited the family of Kashmir actress Ambreen Bhat, who was killed by terrorists outside her house.

In India, the political parties in the Kashmir Valley have blamed the central government for the current security situation in the Valley. Two former Chief Ministers of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti, today visited the family of Kashmir actress Ambreen Bhat, who was killed by terrorists outside her house. The political party leaders have said that the claim of normalcy in Kashmir Valley is far from reality. "Those who claim that the situation in the valley is normal need to be questioned. We have been saying for a long time that this situation is not normal. And those areas which were cleared of Militancy during our time, the militancy has propped up again. Areas around Srinagar as well as the whole of Srinagar had hardly any militant attacks," said Omar Abdullah. Omar also said that the cycle of target killings is not stopping, and something needs to be done by the government to stop this. PDP President Mehbooba Mufti also visited Ambreen's house and met with the family members. Mehbooba also blamed the central government for its "muscular policy" on Jammu and Kashmir. "The central government is not taking note of the situation and its muscular policy is worsening the situation on the ground. The central government is claiming that everything is alright in Jammu and Kashmir, which is far from the truth. Innocent People are being killed on a daily basis here. Unfortunately, central government and BJP are seeing J&K through the prism of security and Muslim majority state," said Mehbooba Mufti. Jammu and Kashmir police earlier said that they killed both the terrorists involved in the killing of actress Ambreen Bhat. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Politicians Omar Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti blame central govt for security situation in Kashmir Valley

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah said that the PAGD (Peoples Alliance for Gupkar Declaration) should fight elections jointly to keep Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) away.

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah said that the PAGD (Peoples Alliance for Gupkar Declaration) should fight elections jointly to keep Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) away. PAGD is an amalgamation of six political parties including the National Conference and PDP. While talking to the media in Srinagar, Omar said that in the upcoming Assembly polls in Jammu and Kashmir, PAGD should fight jointly to keep away BJP and its teams. ALSO READ | Hijab row reaches Kashmir: Politicians react to school order asking teachers to remove hijab "It is my personal opinion. And if you ask me, I suggest PAGD should go together in the polls ahead to keep BJP and its A & B teams away, However, the final decision lies with the PAGD," he said. While lashing out at BJP, he said Muslims are being targeted. He claimed that they are being told not to use loudspeakers in mosques, they are not allowed to sell halal meat, they are not allowed to wear hijab and so on. He said if Muslims are not objecting to the religion or lifestyles of other people why are only they being targeted. ALSO READ | As guns go silent on borders, areas close to LoC promoted as tourist destinations Omar also spoke about the long power cuts Kashmir is witnessing for the last three weeks. "It seems that we are deliberately being irritated. I wonder why power remains on during the rest of the hours during day and night but not at the time of Sehri and Iftar." "You wake to have Sehri, there is no electricity and the same is the case when you have Iftar. There is no electricity during Taraweeh prayers and when prayers are over, electricity is restored, it seems to be a deliberate attempt to disturb the people of Kashmir," he claimed. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Former Jammu and Kashmir CM Omar Abdullah says PAGD should fight elections jointly against BJP

The hijab controversy has reached the Kashmir valley in India as the former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir have reacted to an order copy of a private school, which has asked the teachers not to wear hijab on school premises.&nbsp;

A private school 'Dagger Parivar' which was developed jointly by Indrani Balan Foundation, a Pune-based NGO and the Chinar Corps Indian Army, has asked all the female teachers to not wear the hijab in the school.&nbsp;

The private school for specially-abled students in its order states to remove hijab during school hours in order to allow students to have safe communication with the teachers and the staff.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/as-guns-go-silent-on-borders-areas-close-to-loc-promoted-as-tourist-destinations-474313">As guns go silent on borders, areas close to LoC promoted as tourist destinations</a>

However, it appears it has not been received well by the politicians.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir's former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti took to the microblogging site Twitter and said: "I condemn this letter issuing diktats on hijab. J&amp;K may be ruled by BJP but it's certainly not like any other state where they bulldoze the houses of minorities &amp; not allow them the freedom to dress as they want. Our girls will not give up their right to choose."&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I condemn this letter issuing diktats on hijab. J&amp;K may be ruled by BJP but its certainly not like any other state where they bulldoze the houses of minorities &amp; not allow them the freedom to dress as they want. Our girls will not give up their right to choose. <a href="https://t.co/GpqX8UWv5k">pic.twitter.com/GpqX8UWv5k</a>
— Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) <a href="https://twitter.com/MehboobaMufti/status/1519185256217473024?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

ALSO READ&nbsp;|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-modi-says-covid-jabs-for-kids-a-priority-urges-caution-at-meet-with-cms-474290">Indian PM Modi says COVID jabs for kids a priority, urges caution at meet with CMs</a>

The circular is doing rounds on social media and has garnered a lot of criticism. Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has also said that nobody should interfere in someone's religion.&nbsp;

"In this country, everyone is free to follow the religion of their choice. It's in our constitution that we are a secular country. No government should interfere in these things," said Omar Abdullah, Former Chief Minister.&nbsp;

"Everyone should have the free will to dress or follow religion. We don't want the same thing to be repeated here as it was in Karnataka. They have been interacting with teachers so far and why now," he added.&nbsp;

The local leaders said it's being done intentionally to create a rift between people.&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

The hijab controversy has reached the Kashmir valley in India as the former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir have reacted to an order copy of a private school, which has asked the teachers not to wear hijab on school premises.

The hijab controversy has reached the Kashmir valley in India as the former chief ministers of Jammu and Kashmir have reacted to an order copy of a private school, which has asked the teachers not to wear hijab on school premises. A private school 'Dagger Parivar' which was developed jointly by Indrani Balan Foundation, a Pune-based NGO and the Chinar Corps Indian Army, has asked all the female teachers to not wear the hijab in the school. The private school for specially-abled students in its order states to remove hijab during school hours in order to allow students to have safe communication with the teachers and the staff. ALSO READ | As guns go silent on borders, areas close to LoC promoted as tourist destinations However, it appears it has not been received well by the politicians. Jammu and Kashmir's former Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti took to the microblogging site Twitter and said: "I condemn this letter issuing diktats on hijab. J&K may be ruled by BJP but it's certainly not like any other state where they bulldoze the houses of minorities & not allow them the freedom to dress as they want. Our girls will not give up their right to choose." I condemn this letter issuing diktats on hijab. J&K may be ruled by BJP but its certainly not like any other state where they bulldoze the houses of minorities & not allow them the freedom to dress as they want. Our girls will not give up their right to choose. pic.twitter.com/GpqX8UWv5k — Mehbooba Mufti (@MehboobaMufti) April 27, 2022 × ALSO READ | Indian PM Modi says COVID jabs for kids a priority, urges caution at meet with CMs The circular is doing rounds on social media and has garnered a lot of criticism. Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has also said that nobody should interfere in someone's religion. "In this country, everyone is free to follow the religion of their choice. It's in our constitution that we are a secular country. No government should interfere in these things," said Omar Abdullah, Former Chief Minister. "Everyone should have the free will to dress or follow religion. We don't want the same thing to be repeated here as it was in Karnataka. They have been interacting with teachers so far and why now," he added. The local leaders said it's being done intentionally to create a rift between people. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Hijab row reaches Kashmir: Politicians react to school order asking teachers to remove hijab

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and Vice President of National Conference Omar Abdullah has been questioned by Enforcement Directorate (ED) in New Delhi on Thursday. According to a source in the ED, the questioning was done in a case related to Jammu and Kashmir Bank. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The National Conference has called it ‘vicious vilification campaign’. NC has said that central government has made a habit of misusing investigative agencies. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Abdullah appeared before the investigators of the agency at around 11 am at its headquarters. The leader was earlier summoned by the agency. He was asked to visit its office on Thursday. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-companies-to-give-an-average-pay-hike-of-8-12-per-cent-in-2022-says-report-469103" hreflang="en">Indian companies to give an average pay hike of 8-12 per cent in 2022, says report</a>

“The central government has made a habit of misusing investigative agencies, and this is another step in the same direction. No political party that puts up meaningful opposition to the BJP has been spared, whether it is the ED, CBI, NIA, NCB - all have been used for political purposes,” said National conference in a statement. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The National conference said that Omar Abdullah despite Ramzan and Delhi not being his place of residence, didn’t postpone the date of questioning and went ahead with it. They have said that elections might take place in Jammu Kashmir this year, and due to this, BJP is using agencies to target other party leaders. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“There was a time when elections were announced by the EC but now it seems that elections are announced by the ED. Over recent years, we have seen that wherever state elections are due, agencies like the ED move in and target those parties who pose a challenge to the BJP. This summons to our Vice President is in the same vein. We have no doubt that this fishing expedition will yield no concrete results to the BJP and the people will give a ringing endorsement to the national conference as and when required,” said National Conference. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The ED hasn’t given out any further details about the case Omar was questioned for. &nbsp;

Watch | Gravitas: Petrol, Diesel prices soar in India

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-petrol-diesel-prices-soar-in-india-468944/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The officials seem to be taking statement of Abdullah, who has been accused of opening several accounts in the Jammu and Kashmir Bank, through close aides, like Ahsan Mirza, who was authorised to sign cheques, an ANI report said. &nbsp;

Mirza, was also appointed "treasurer" of JK Cricket Association (JKCA) by Abdullah when he was president even when Mirza was not an elected office-bearer. &nbsp;

Parallel accounts of the association were also opened in connivance with a senior executive of the bank, sources claimed. &nbsp;

In July 2019, the ED had also questioned Abdullah on the statements of Mirza and other associates, who were earlier questioned by the agency.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and Vice President of National Conference Omar Abdullah has been questioned by Enforcement Directorate (ED) in New Delhi on Thursday.

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and Vice President of National Conference Omar Abdullah has been questioned by Enforcement Directorate (ED) in New Delhi on Thursday. According to a source in the ED, the questioning was done in a case related to Jammu and Kashmir Bank. The National Conference has called it ‘vicious vilification campaign’. NC has said that central government has made a habit of misusing investigative agencies. Abdullah appeared before the investigators of the agency at around 11 am at its headquarters. The leader was earlier summoned by the agency. He was asked to visit its office on Thursday. Also Read: Indian companies to give an average pay hike of 8-12 per cent in 2022, says report “The central government has made a habit of misusing investigative agencies, and this is another step in the same direction. No political party that puts up meaningful opposition to the BJP has been spared, whether it is the ED, CBI, NIA, NCB - all have been used for political purposes,” said National conference in a statement. The National conference said that Omar Abdullah despite Ramzan and Delhi not being his place of residence, didn’t postpone the date of questioning and went ahead with it. They have said that elections might take place in Jammu Kashmir this year, and due to this, BJP is using agencies to target other party leaders. “There was a time when elections were announced by the EC but now it seems that elections are announced by the ED. Over recent years, we have seen that wherever state elections are due, agencies like the ED move in and target those parties who pose a challenge to the BJP. This summons to our Vice President is in the same vein. We have no doubt that this fishing expedition will yield no concrete results to the BJP and the people will give a ringing endorsement to the national conference as and when required,” said National Conference. The ED hasn’t given out any further details about the case Omar was questioned for. Watch | Gravitas: Petrol, Diesel prices soar in India × The officials seem to be taking statement of Abdullah, who has been accused of opening several accounts in the Jammu and Kashmir Bank, through close aides, like Ahsan Mirza, who was authorised to sign cheques, an ANI report said. Mirza, was also appointed "treasurer" of JK Cricket Association (JKCA) by Abdullah when he was president even when Mirza was not an elected office-bearer. Parallel accounts of the association were also opened in connivance with a senior executive of the bank, sources claimed. In July 2019, the ED had also questioned Abdullah on the statements of Mirza and other associates, who were earlier questioned by the agency. (With inputs from agencies)

ED quizzes Omar Abdullah; NC calls it Centre's ‘vicious vilification campaign’  

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah has hit out at the filmmakers of Kashmir Files and told lies have been projected in the movie. It wasn't the NC government in 1990 but a governor’s rule under VP Singh’s regime.&nbsp;

Omar was addressing a rally today in South Kashmir's Kulgam district, where he spoke about the film. He also asked the director whether it was a documentary or a Bollywood film.&nbsp;

<a href="Mehbooba Mufti hits out at Indian government for aggressively promoting 'Kashmir Files' movie">Also read |&nbsp;Mehbooba Mufti hits out at Indian government for aggressively promoting 'Kashmir Files' movie</a>

''Many lies are projected in The Kashmir Files movie.&nbsp;&nbsp;It wasn't the NC government in 1990 but a governor’s rule under VP Singh’s regime and the Governor was Jagmohan. BJP was ruling at the centre,''&nbsp;said Omar Abdullah.&nbsp;

''Why haven't&nbsp;you shown that in the movie.&nbsp;You have shown Farooq Abdullah and not the reality. If Kashmiri pandits have died, we all are sad about it. But Muslims have died too. There are Muslims also who left and didn't&nbsp;return. Sikhs also left. We need to create an atmosphere to bring them back,'' he added.

Omar also said that the National Conference has always worked for the return of Kashmiri Pandits safely to the valley. But if movies&nbsp;like these are made, the makers want to make sure that these people should not return. &nbsp;

“But Kashmir Files movie film makers don't seem to be wanting the return of Kashmiri Pandits,” said Abdullah.&nbsp;

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah has hit out at the filmmakers of Kashmir Files and told lies have been projected in the movie. It wasn't the NC government in 1990 but a governor’s rule under VP Singh’s regime.

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah has hit out at the filmmakers of Kashmir Files and told lies have been projected in the movie. It wasn't the NC government in 1990 but a governor’s rule under VP Singh’s regime. Omar was addressing a rally today in South Kashmir's Kulgam district, where he spoke about the film. He also asked the director whether it was a documentary or a Bollywood film. Also read | Mehbooba Mufti hits out at Indian government for aggressively promoting 'Kashmir Files' movie ''Many lies are projected in The Kashmir Files movie. It wasn't the NC government in 1990 but a governor’s rule under VP Singh’s regime and the Governor was Jagmohan. BJP was ruling at the centre,'' said Omar Abdullah. ''Why haven't you shown that in the movie. You have shown Farooq Abdullah and not the reality. If Kashmiri pandits have died, we all are sad about it. But Muslims have died too. There are Muslims also who left and didn't return. Sikhs also left. We need to create an atmosphere to bring them back,'' he added. Omar also said that the National Conference has always worked for the return of Kashmiri Pandits safely to the valley. But if movies like these are made, the makers want to make sure that these people should not return. “But Kashmir Files movie film makers don't seem to be wanting the return of Kashmiri Pandits,” said Abdullah.

Omar Abdullah hits out at filmmakers of Kashmir Files, says lies projected in the movie

The main political parties of Indian union territory Jammu and Kashmir have rejected the proposal given by the delimitation commission in New Delhi. The Commission proposes six additional seats for the Jammu region and one for Kashmir Valley.

This would make total seats in Jammu 43 and in Kashmir Valley, 47 and nine seats are proposed for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs).

Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, in a tweet said, that the proposal is "unacceptable". He tweeted, "The draft recommendation of the J&amp;K delimitation commission is unacceptable. The distribution of newly created assembly constituencies with 6 going to Jammu &amp; only 1 to Kashmir is not justified by the data of the 2011 census."

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/santa-arrives-early-in-kashmir-a-125-year-old-church-restored-to-original-glory-438468">Santa arrives early in Kashmir, a 125-year-old church restored to original glory</a>

"It is deeply disappointing that the commission appears to have allowed the political agenda of the BJP to dictate its recommendations rather than the data which should have been it's only consideration. Contrary to the promised "scientific approach" it’s a political approach," he added.&nbsp;

The People Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti also rejected the proposal and said, "My apprehensions about the Delimitation Commission weren't misplaced. They want to pitch people against each other by ignoring the population census &amp; preposing 6 seats for one region &amp; only one for Kashmir."

The PDP spokesperson while speaking to the media said "our apprehensions have come true".&nbsp;

"We have heard about the proposals that Delimitation Commission has put forward for Jammu Kashmir. This simply reflects what we have been saying for long. It's been done by BJP and how ththe eir party could gain out of it," PDP spokesperson Said Suhail Bukhari said. &nbsp;&nbsp;

IN PICS | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-northern-india-in-grip-of-cold-wave-more-snowfall-predicted-437990">Northern India in grip of cold wave, more snowfall predicted</a>

"That is why commission has proposed 6 seats for Jammu and 1 seat for Kashmir, which is no way is justified. The agenda of BJP and today’s government is to divide the people in Jammu Kashmir on a regional and religions basis. The Commision has proven our party President Mehbooba Mufti right and we are rejecting this proposal," he added.&nbsp;

The newly formed J&amp;K Apni Party also in a tweet said that they reject the proposal of the delimitation commission. The tweet said, "This is outrightly unacceptable to us. Apni Party demands a fair delimitation exercise without any bias, taking population and districts as the base. We strongly demand the GoI to intervene."

The main political parties of Indian union territory Jammu and Kashmir have rejected the proposal given by the delimitation commission in New Delhi. The Commission proposes six additional seats for the Jammu region and one for Kashmir Valley.

The main political parties of Indian union territory Jammu and Kashmir have rejected the proposal given by the delimitation commission in New Delhi. The Commission proposes six additional seats for the Jammu region and one for Kashmir Valley. This would make total seats in Jammu 43 and in Kashmir Valley, 47 and nine seats are proposed for Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs). Former Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, in a tweet said, that the proposal is "unacceptable". He tweeted, "The draft recommendation of the J&K delimitation commission is unacceptable. The distribution of newly created assembly constituencies with 6 going to Jammu & only 1 to Kashmir is not justified by the data of the 2011 census." ALSO READ | Santa arrives early in Kashmir, a 125-year-old church restored to original glory "It is deeply disappointing that the commission appears to have allowed the political agenda of the BJP to dictate its recommendations rather than the data which should have been it's only consideration. Contrary to the promised "scientific approach" it’s a political approach," he added. The People Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti also rejected the proposal and said, "My apprehensions about the Delimitation Commission weren't misplaced. They want to pitch people against each other by ignoring the population census & preposing 6 seats for one region & only one for Kashmir." The PDP spokesperson while speaking to the media said "our apprehensions have come true". "We have heard about the proposals that Delimitation Commission has put forward for Jammu Kashmir. This simply reflects what we have been saying for long. It's been done by BJP and how ththe eir party could gain out of it," PDP spokesperson Said Suhail Bukhari said. IN PICS | Northern India in grip of cold wave, more snowfall predicted "That is why commission has proposed 6 seats for Jammu and 1 seat for Kashmir, which is no way is justified. The agenda of BJP and today’s government is to divide the people in Jammu Kashmir on a regional and religions basis. The Commision has proven our party President Mehbooba Mufti right and we are rejecting this proposal," he added. The newly formed J&K Apni Party also in a tweet said that they reject the proposal of the delimitation commission. The tweet said, "This is outrightly unacceptable to us. Apni Party demands a fair delimitation exercise without any bias, taking population and districts as the base. We strongly demand the GoI to intervene."

Political parties in Jammu and Kashmir react to delimitation proposal

COVID-19 vaccines do not belong to any political party, but humanity, National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said on Saturday, hours after Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav termed coronavirus vaccines to be rolled out in the country as "vaccine of the BJP".

Taking to Twitter, the former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister said, "I don't know about anyone else but when my turn comes I'll happily roll up my sleeve &amp; get a COVID vaccine."

The more people get vaccinated, the better it will be for the country and the economy, the National Conference (NC) vice president said.

"No vaccine belongs to any political party, they belong to humanity &amp; the sooner we get vulnerable people vaccinated the better," he tweeted.

While talking to reporters in Lucknow, Yadav, said, "How can I trust the vaccine, which will be used for vaccination by the BJP? We cannot get vaccinated by the BJP's vaccine.

" On Saturday, an expert panel of India's central drug authority recommended granting permission for restricted emergency use of the indigenously developed COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin with certain conditions, a day after giving similar directions for the Oxford COVID-19 vaccine.

The Subject Expert Committee (SEC) on COVID-19 of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) had on Friday recommended granting permission for restricted emergency use of Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine Covishield, being manufactured by the Serum Institute of India.

The NC leader also tweeted that this "virus has been far too disruptive &amp; if a vaccine helps bring about a semblance of normalcy after all the chaos then sign me up."

COVID-19 vaccines do not belong to any political party, but humanity, National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said on Saturday, hours after Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav termed coronavirus vaccines to be rolled out in the country as "vaccine of the BJP".

COVID-19 vaccines do not belong to any political party, but humanity, National Conference leader Omar Abdullah said on Saturday, hours after Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav termed coronavirus vaccines to be rolled out in the country as "vaccine of the BJP". Taking to Twitter, the former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister said, "I don't know about anyone else but when my turn comes I'll happily roll up my sleeve & get a COVID vaccine." The more people get vaccinated, the better it will be for the country and the economy, the National Conference (NC) vice president said. "No vaccine belongs to any political party, they belong to humanity & the sooner we get vulnerable people vaccinated the better," he tweeted. While talking to reporters in Lucknow, Yadav, said, "How can I trust the vaccine, which will be used for vaccination by the BJP? We cannot get vaccinated by the BJP's vaccine. " On Saturday, an expert panel of India's central drug authority recommended granting permission for restricted emergency use of the indigenously developed COVID-19 vaccine Covaxin with certain conditions, a day after giving similar directions for the Oxford COVID-19 vaccine. The Subject Expert Committee (SEC) on COVID-19 of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) had on Friday recommended granting permission for restricted emergency use of Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine Covishield, being manufactured by the Serum Institute of India. The NC leader also tweeted that this "virus has been far too disruptive & if a vaccine helps bring about a semblance of normalcy after all the chaos then sign me up."

Covid vaccines don't belong to any political party, but humanity: Omar Abdullah on Akhilesh's remark

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, who is presently detained under Public Safety Act, will be shifted to her official residence at Fairview Gupkar Road here on Tuesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-rahul-gandhi-takes-a-subtle-jibe-at-hcq-export-modi-trump-friendship-291099" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: Rahul Gandhi takes a subtle jibe at HCQ export, Modi-Trump duo</a>

The order terms her official residence as a 'subsidiary jail'. However, she will continue to remain under detention.Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah, who was released from detention last month, had expressed hope that Mufti and others will be released from detention as well.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-american-journo-brahm-kanchibotla-dies-of-covid-19-in-new-york-291044" hreflang="en">Indian-American journo Brahm Kanchibotla dies of COVID-19 in New York</a>

National Conference (NC) leader and former union minister Farooq Abdullah was also released last month.

The Jammu and Kashmir administration had in February invoked PSA against Mufti and Omar Abdullah.Mufti and many other leaders of Kashmir including Farooq Abdullah were put in detention when the government decided to revoke Article 370 of the Indian Constitution that accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, who is presently detained under Public Safety Act, will be shifted to her official residence at Fairview Gupkar Road here on Tuesday.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti, who is presently detained under Public Safety Act, will be shifted to her official residence at Fairview Gupkar Road here on Tuesday. Also read: Coronavirus: Rahul Gandhi takes a subtle jibe at HCQ export, Modi-Trump duo The order terms her official residence as a 'subsidiary jail'. However, she will continue to remain under detention.Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah, who was released from detention last month, had expressed hope that Mufti and others will be released from detention as well. Also read: Indian-American journo Brahm Kanchibotla dies of COVID-19 in New York National Conference (NC) leader and former union minister Farooq Abdullah was also released last month. The Jammu and Kashmir administration had in February invoked PSA against Mufti and Omar Abdullah.Mufti and many other leaders of Kashmir including Farooq Abdullah were put in detention when the government decided to revoke Article 370 of the Indian Constitution that accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Mehbooba Mufti to be shifted to her official residence today, to remain under detention

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah was on Tuesday freed after eight months in detention after the administration revoked the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA) against him.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farooq-abdullah-meets-son-omar-abdullah-in-jail-a-day-after-his-release-286320">Farooq Abdullah meets son Omar Abdullah in jail a day after his release</a>

A swarm of media personnel and supporters, many of them in masks, waited for him outside his residence after he was released.

The National Conference leader, who turned 50 on March 10, has been under detention since August 5, when the Centre announced the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir's special status under Article 370 and its bifurcation into the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ex-jk-cm-omar-abdullah-to-be-released-after-7-months-of-detention-288188/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

The order revoking the PSA against him was issued by Home Secretary Shaleen Kabra. Abdullah was booked under the stringent act on February 5, hours before his six-month custody under preventive detention was to end. 
The government has revoked his detention with ?immediate effect?, the order stated.

Abdullah's mother was the first to arrive at the makeshift detention centre after news came in that her son was about to be released. He was kept at the state guesthouse Hari Nivas, just a few hundred metres from his official residence.

His father, former chief minister Farooq Abdullah, was also charged under the PSA and released on March 13 after 221 days in detention. PDP leader and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti continues to be under detention.

On February 5, Omar Abdullah, who was junior foreign minister and commerce minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led Cabinet in 2000, was served with a three-page dossier that was challenged in the Supreme Court by his sister Sara Abdullah Pilot.

The Supreme Court last week asked the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir administration to inform by this week if it was releasing him.

A bench of Justices Arun Mishra and M R Shah told the counsel appearing for the Centre that Abdullah's sister's plea against his detention would be heard on merit if he was not released soon.

The petition, which may now become infructuous, could have come up for hearing on Wednesday or later this week.&nbsp;

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah was on Tuesday freed after eight months in detention after the administration revoked the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA) against him.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah was on Tuesday freed after eight months in detention after the administration revoked the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA) against him. Also read: Farooq Abdullah meets son Omar Abdullah in jail a day after his release A swarm of media personnel and supporters, many of them in masks, waited for him outside his residence after he was released. The National Conference leader, who turned 50 on March 10, has been under detention since August 5, when the Centre announced the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir's special status under Article 370 and its bifurcation into the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. × The order revoking the PSA against him was issued by Home Secretary Shaleen Kabra. Abdullah was booked under the stringent act on February 5, hours before his six-month custody under preventive detention was to end. The government has revoked his detention with ?immediate effect?, the order stated. Abdullah's mother was the first to arrive at the makeshift detention centre after news came in that her son was about to be released. He was kept at the state guesthouse Hari Nivas, just a few hundred metres from his official residence. His father, former chief minister Farooq Abdullah, was also charged under the PSA and released on March 13 after 221 days in detention. PDP leader and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti continues to be under detention. On February 5, Omar Abdullah, who was junior foreign minister and commerce minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led Cabinet in 2000, was served with a three-page dossier that was challenged in the Supreme Court by his sister Sara Abdullah Pilot. The Supreme Court last week asked the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir administration to inform by this week if it was releasing him. A bench of Justices Arun Mishra and M R Shah told the counsel appearing for the Centre that Abdullah's sister's plea against his detention would be heard on merit if he was not released soon. The petition, which may now become infructuous, could have come up for hearing on Wednesday or later this week.

Omar Abdullah freed after eight-month detention, PSA revoked

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah’s eight-month detention ended on Tuesday after the administration revoked the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA) against him.

The National Conference leader, who turned 50 on March 10, has been under detention since August 5, when the Centre announced the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status under Article 370 and its bifurcation into the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

The order revoking the PSA against him was issued by Home Secretary Shaleen Kabra. Abdullah was booked under the stringent act on February 5, hours before his six-month custody under preventive detention was to end.

The government has revoked his detention with immediate effect, the order stated.

Abdullah’s mother was the first to arrive at the makeshift detention centre after news came in that her son was about to be released. He was kept at the state guesthouse Hari Nivas, just a few hundred metres from his official residence.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Had lunch with my mum &amp; dad for the first time in almost 8 months. I can’t remember a better meal even though I’ve been in a bit of a daze &amp; don’t remember what I ate ☺️ <a href="https://t.co/W4duuhCVjI">pic.twitter.com/W4duuhCVjI</a>
— Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) <a href="https://twitter.com/OmarAbdullah/status/1242372950692528129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

His father, former chief minister Farooq Abdullah, was also charged under the PSA and released on March 13 after 221 days in detention. PDP leader and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti continues to be under detention.

On February 5, Omar Abdullah, who was junior foreign minister and commerce minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led Cabinet in 2000, was served with a three-page dossier that was challenged in the Supreme Court by his sister Sara Abdullah Pilot.

The Supreme Court last week asked the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir administration to inform by this week if it was releasing him.

A bench of Justices Arun Mishra and M R Shah told the counsel appearing for the Centre that Abdullah’s sister’s plea against his detention would be heard on merit if he was not released soon.

The petition, which may now become infructuous, could have come up for hearing on Wednesday or later this week.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah’s eight-month detention ended on Tuesday after the administration revoked the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA) against him.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah’s eight-month detention ended on Tuesday after the administration revoked the stringent Public Safety Act (PSA) against him. The National Conference leader, who turned 50 on March 10, has been under detention since August 5, when the Centre announced the revocation of Jammu and Kashmir’s special status under Article 370 and its bifurcation into the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The order revoking the PSA against him was issued by Home Secretary Shaleen Kabra. Abdullah was booked under the stringent act on February 5, hours before his six-month custody under preventive detention was to end. The government has revoked his detention with immediate effect, the order stated. Abdullah’s mother was the first to arrive at the makeshift detention centre after news came in that her son was about to be released. He was kept at the state guesthouse Hari Nivas, just a few hundred metres from his official residence. Had lunch with my mum & dad for the first time in almost 8 months. I can’t remember a better meal even though I’ve been in a bit of a daze & don’t remember what I ate ☺️ pic.twitter.com/W4duuhCVjI — Omar Abdullah (@OmarAbdullah) March 24, 2020 × His father, former chief minister Farooq Abdullah, was also charged under the PSA and released on March 13 after 221 days in detention. PDP leader and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti continues to be under detention. On February 5, Omar Abdullah, who was junior foreign minister and commerce minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led Cabinet in 2000, was served with a three-page dossier that was challenged in the Supreme Court by his sister Sara Abdullah Pilot. The Supreme Court last week asked the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir administration to inform by this week if it was releasing him. A bench of Justices Arun Mishra and M R Shah told the counsel appearing for the Centre that Abdullah’s sister’s plea against his detention would be heard on merit if he was not released soon. The petition, which may now become infructuous, could have come up for hearing on Wednesday or later this week.

Omar Abdullah released after 8 months in detention, PSA charges revoked

<div>Senior Congress leader and leader of opposition in Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad today reached Srinagar where he met Farooq Abdullah, the former J&amp;K chief minister at his residence, a day after his detention under public safety act was revoked.</div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div>Before meeting Azad, Farooq drove to Hari Niwas Palace, a designated sub-jail, with his family where he met Omar Abdullah who is still under detention after PSA was slapped on him.</div>

<div>
Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farooq-abdullah-meets-son-omar-abdullah-in-jail-a-day-after-his-release-286320"> Farooq Abdullah meets son Omar Abdullah in jail a day after his release</a>

Addressing media, after a two-hour-long meeting, Farooq thanked Azad for coming to see him. Azad while questioning the detention of Farooq for seven months expressed concern over the current democratic situation in India.
</div>

<div>Also read:<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/national-conference-leader-farooq-abdullah-released-from-detention-286190"> National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah released from detention</a></div>

<div>
He said two former chief ministers of erstwhile state, Omar Abdullah &amp; Mehbooba Mufti should be released without any delay. "If we need to bring happiness to Kashmir, all political leaders should be released &amp; political process should start again," Azad said.
</div>

<div>On being asked if Congress will restore on Article 370 ––– which was nullified by BJP led NDA government in August last year ––– he said that, “it is important to restore democracy in Kashmir first.” He also batted for the immediate restoration of statehood. The Jammu and Kashmir was reduced and bifurcated from a state to two union territories in August with Ladakh as one and Jammu and Kashmir as another.</div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div>Azad said that he informed the leader about the voice raised by the members of the lower and upper house against his detention. "I am happy to meet him. I have come here on behalf of all leaders who raised their voice," he told media.</div>

<div>&nbsp;</div>

<div>The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Friday revoked the Public Safety Act slapped on Farooq Abdullah, the former chief minister of the erstwhile state and an incumbent parliamentarian, seven months after he was detained.&nbsp;</div>

Senior Congress leader and leader of opposition in Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad today reached Srinagar where he met Farooq Abdullah, the former J&K chief minister at his residence, a day after his detention under public safety act was revoked.

Senior Congress leader and leader of opposition in Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad today reached Srinagar where he met Farooq Abdullah, the former J&K chief minister at his residence, a day after his detention under public safety act was revoked. Before meeting Azad, Farooq drove to Hari Niwas Palace, a designated sub-jail, with his family where he met Omar Abdullah who is still under detention after PSA was slapped on him. Also read: Farooq Abdullah meets son Omar Abdullah in jail a day after his release Addressing media, after a two-hour-long meeting, Farooq thanked Azad for coming to see him. Azad while questioning the detention of Farooq for seven months expressed concern over the current democratic situation in India. Also read: National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah released from detention He said two former chief ministers of erstwhile state, Omar Abdullah & Mehbooba Mufti should be released without any delay. "If we need to bring happiness to Kashmir, all political leaders should be released & political process should start again," Azad said. On being asked if Congress will restore on Article 370 ––– which was nullified by BJP led NDA government in August last year ––– he said that, “it is important to restore democracy in Kashmir first.” He also batted for the immediate restoration of statehood. The Jammu and Kashmir was reduced and bifurcated from a state to two union territories in August with Ladakh as one and Jammu and Kashmir as another. Azad said that he informed the leader about the voice raised by the members of the lower and upper house against his detention. "I am happy to meet him. I have come here on behalf of all leaders who raised their voice," he told media. The Jammu and Kashmir administration on Friday revoked the Public Safety Act slapped on Farooq Abdullah, the former chief minister of the erstwhile state and an incumbent parliamentarian, seven months after he was detained.

After meeting Farooq Abdullah, senior Congress leader pitches for restarting political process in J&K

National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah, who was released from detention yesterday, met his son and&nbsp;party leader Omar Abdullah in Srinagar on Saturday.

Farooq Abdullah, who was detained under Public Safety Act following the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, was freed yesterday.

Also read: <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/national-conference-leader-farooq-abdullah-released-from-detention-286190">National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah released from detention</a>

I&nbsp;will receive a further fillip when party Vice President Omar Abdullah and other political detainees are set free, Farooq Abdullah said after meeting his son.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-revokes-public-safety-act-on-farooq-abdullah-a-month-after-he-met-former-raw-chief-286139">Government revokes public safety act on Farooq Abdullah, a month after he met former RAW chief</a>

"We urge the government to do so at the earliest," said JKNC."As the pre-eminent political party of Jammu and Kashmir, the National Conference has played a key role in strengthening the voice of the people through democracy and will continue to do so", he added.

National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah, who was released from detention yesterday, met his son and party leader Omar Abdullah in Srinagar on Saturday. Farooq Abdullah, who was detained under Public Safety Act following the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, was freed yesterday.

National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah, who was released from detention yesterday, met his son and party leader Omar Abdullah in Srinagar on Saturday. Farooq Abdullah, who was detained under Public Safety Act following the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, was freed yesterday. Also read: National Conference leader Farooq Abdullah released from detention I will receive a further fillip when party Vice President Omar Abdullah and other political detainees are set free, Farooq Abdullah said after meeting his son. Also read: Government revokes public safety act on Farooq Abdullah, a month after he met former RAW chief "We urge the government to do so at the earliest," said JKNC."As the pre-eminent political party of Jammu and Kashmir, the National Conference has played a key role in strengthening the voice of the people through democracy and will continue to do so", he added.

Farooq Abdullah meets son Omar Abdullah in jail a day after his release

Supreme Court on Monday posted for hearing on March 5 the petition of Sara Abdullah Pilot, Omar Abdullah's sister, challenging the detention of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah under the Jammu and Kashmir Public Safety Act, 1978.

A bench of Justice Arun Mishra posted the matter for hearing on Thursday after Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the court that J&amp;K administration has filed an affidavit in the matter.

Pilot has challenged his detention under Public Safety Act (PSA) in the supreme court saying her <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omar-abdullahs-sister-sara-abdullah-pilot-challenges-his-detention-under-psa-in-supreme-court-279796">brother's detention</a> was a grave violation of his constitutional rights, including freedom of speech.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti have been under preventive detention since August 5 last year following abrogation of Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Under the law, his detention was to end six months later on February 5, 2020

The plea filed Pilot said the order of detention is manifestly illegal and there is no question of him being a "threat to the maintenance of public order".

Sara, filing the habeas corpus petition challenging the detention of Omar Abdullah under the PSA, said that exercise of powers by authorities under the CrPC to detain individuals, including political leaders, was "clearly mala fide" to ensure that the opposition to the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution is "silenced".

The plea has sought quashing of the February 5 order detaining Omar Abdullah under the PSA and also sought his production before the court.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Supreme Court on Monday posted for hearing on March 5 the petition of Sara Abdullah Pilot, Omar Abdullah's sister, challenging the detention of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah under the Jammu and Kashmir Public Safety Act, 1978.

Supreme Court on Monday posted for hearing on March 5 the petition of Sara Abdullah Pilot, Omar Abdullah's sister, challenging the detention of former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah under the Jammu and Kashmir Public Safety Act, 1978. A bench of Justice Arun Mishra posted the matter for hearing on Thursday after Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told the court that J&K administration has filed an affidavit in the matter. Pilot has challenged his detention under Public Safety Act (PSA) in the supreme court saying her brother's detention was a grave violation of his constitutional rights, including freedom of speech. Former Jammu and Kashmir chief ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti have been under preventive detention since August 5 last year following abrogation of Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Under the law, his detention was to end six months later on February 5, 2020 The plea filed Pilot said the order of detention is manifestly illegal and there is no question of him being a "threat to the maintenance of public order". Sara, filing the habeas corpus petition challenging the detention of Omar Abdullah under the PSA, said that exercise of powers by authorities under the CrPC to detain individuals, including political leaders, was "clearly mala fide" to ensure that the opposition to the abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution is "silenced". The plea has sought quashing of the February 5 order detaining Omar Abdullah under the PSA and also sought his production before the court. (With inputs from ANI)

SC to hear plea challenging ex-JK CM Omar Abdullah's detention on March 5

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti were booked under the Public Safety Act (PSA) last week on February 6.

Abdullah's sister Sara Abdullah Pilot has challenged his detention under Public Safety Act (PSA) in the supreme court saying her brother's detention was a grave violation of his constitutional rights, including freedom of speech.

So what exactly is the PSA?

The administrative detention law allows an individual to be detained for up to two years without any charge, trial or a warrant.&nbsp;

The PSA has two sections -- 'public order' and 'threat to the security of the state'. The former allows detention without trial for six months and the latter for two years.

The Act applies to the whole of Jammu and Kashmir and has provisions in special cases to let the detainee be informed about the reason for the custody. In special cases, the detainee may also get the chance to make a case against their detention before the government.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/omar-abdullahs-sister-sara-abdullah-pilot-challenges-his-detention-under-psa-in-supreme-court-279796">Omar Abdullah's sister Sara Abdullah Pilot challenges his detention under PSA in Supreme Court</a>&nbsp;

Under the PSA, the detaining authority may refrain from making public or revealing any fact with respect to the detention that may stand against the public interest.&nbsp;

The Divisional Commissioner or the District Magistrate usually issue out the detention order under the PSA.&nbsp;

Abdullah and Mufti were booked under the PSA last week just hours before their six-month-long "preventive detention" was to come to an end.&nbsp;

Omar, who has been junior foreign minister and commerce minister in Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led Cabinet in 2000, was served with a three-page dossier in which he was alleged to have made statements in the past which were "subversive" in nature.

Omar's father, Farooq Abdullah, was booked under the PSA in September last year which was reviewed again in December for three months.

Similarly, the magistrate and a police officer visited Mehbooba Mufti at the government accommodation, which had been converted into a subsidiary jail, and was handed over the dossier in which her statements from 2010 were cited as reasons for keeping her in detention.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti were booked under the Public Safety Act (PSA) last week on February 6. Abdullah's sister Sara Abdullah Pilot has challenged his detention under Public Safety Act (PSA) in the supreme court saying her brother's detention was a grave violation of his constitutional rights, including freedom of speech.

Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti were booked under the Public Safety Act (PSA) last week on February 6. Abdullah's sister Sara Abdullah Pilot has challenged his detention under Public Safety Act (PSA) in the supreme court saying her brother's detention was a grave violation of his constitutional rights, including freedom of speech. So what exactly is the PSA? The administrative detention law allows an individual to be detained for up to two years without any charge, trial or a warrant. The PSA has two sections -- 'public order' and 'threat to the security of the state'. The former allows detention without trial for six months and the latter for two years. The Act applies to the whole of Jammu and Kashmir and has provisions in special cases to let the detainee be informed about the reason for the custody. In special cases, the detainee may also get the chance to make a case against their detention before the government. Also read: Omar Abdullah's sister Sara Abdullah Pilot challenges his detention under PSA in Supreme Court Under the PSA, the detaining authority may refrain from making public or revealing any fact with respect to the detention that may stand against the public interest. The Divisional Commissioner or the District Magistrate usually issue out the detention order under the PSA. Abdullah and Mufti were booked under the PSA last week just hours before their six-month-long "preventive detention" was to come to an end. Omar, who has been junior foreign minister and commerce minister in Atal Bihari Vajpayee-led Cabinet in 2000, was served with a three-page dossier in which he was alleged to have made statements in the past which were "subversive" in nature. Omar's father, Farooq Abdullah, was booked under the PSA in September last year which was reviewed again in December for three months. Similarly, the magistrate and a police officer visited Mehbooba Mufti at the government accommodation, which had been converted into a subsidiary jail, and was handed over the dossier in which her statements from 2010 were cited as reasons for keeping her in detention.

What is Public Safety Act (PSA) under which former J&K chief ministers Omar Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti are booked

Two Ex chief Ministers of Jammu and Kashmir booked under PSA. Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah accused of acts against state and influence people against bjp govt. This detention can be extended 3 months to one year under PSA

PSA dossier on detention of J&K leaders

Omar Abdullah's sister Sara Abdullah Pilot has challenged his detention under Public Safety Act (PSA) in the supreme court saying her brother's detention was a grave violation of his constitutional rights, including freedom of speech.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti have been under preventive detention since August 5 last year following abrogation of Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Under the law, his detention was to end six months later on February 5, 2020&nbsp;

Now, the PSA allows the J&amp;K administration to keep the two leaders under detention for another 3 months to a year without trial.

The reasons cited by the Jammu and Kashmir administration for invoking PSA&nbsp;against the two former chief ministers has surprised many.

The dossier has accused both the leaders of planning activities against the Union government under the guise of politics.

The dossier, prepared by the J&amp;K police, says 'Omar Abdullah can influence people for any cause, citing his "capacity to convince his electorate to come out and vote in huge numbers even during the peak of militancy and poll boycotts".

The dossier accused Abdullah of instigating people on Twitter against the unity and integrity of the nation.

Just before detention, Omar Abdullah had reached out to the people on Twitter, urging them not to take the law into their own hand and to stay calm.

Meanwhile, Mehbooba Mufti has been accused of "dangerous and insidious machinations" against the Union government.

The dossier lists Mufti's refusal to sign a bond, stating that she will not talk about the scrapping of article 370, as one of the reasons for invoking PSA against her.

Omar Abdullah's sister Sara Abdullah Pilot has challenged his detention under Public Safety Act (PSA) in the supreme court saying her brother's detention was a grave violation of his constitutional rights, including freedom of speech.

Omar Abdullah's sister Sara Abdullah Pilot has challenged his detention under Public Safety Act (PSA) in the supreme court saying her brother's detention was a grave violation of his constitutional rights, including freedom of speech. Former Jammu and Kashmir chief ministers Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti have been under preventive detention since August 5 last year following abrogation of Article 370, which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Under the law, his detention was to end six months later on February 5, 2020 Now, the PSA allows the J&K administration to keep the two leaders under detention for another 3 months to a year without trial. The reasons cited by the Jammu and Kashmir administration for invoking PSA against the two former chief ministers has surprised many. The dossier has accused both the leaders of planning activities against the Union government under the guise of politics. The dossier, prepared by the J&K police, says 'Omar Abdullah can influence people for any cause, citing his "capacity to convince his electorate to come out and vote in huge numbers even during the peak of militancy and poll boycotts". The dossier accused Abdullah of instigating people on Twitter against the unity and integrity of the nation. Just before detention, Omar Abdullah had reached out to the people on Twitter, urging them not to take the law into their own hand and to stay calm. Meanwhile, Mehbooba Mufti has been accused of "dangerous and insidious machinations" against the Union government. The dossier lists Mufti's refusal to sign a bond, stating that she will not talk about the scrapping of article 370, as one of the reasons for invoking PSA against her.

Omar Abdullah's sister Sara Abdullah Pilot challenges his detention under PSA in Supreme Court 

Mainstream leaders of Jammu and Kashmir will remain in detention. The decision to slap Public Safety Act on Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti has triggered a massive debate. WION's Palki Sharma tells you why keeping the leaders in detention might be a bad idea.

Gravitas: Top Kashmir politicians to stay in detention

The government has decided to move former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti out of Chashmeshahi guest house, a designated sub-jail, to a different location, due to harsh winter conditions, sources said on Saturday.&nbsp;

Apart from Mehbooba, the government has also decided to relocate the important leaders who have been detained following the abrogation of Article 370.&nbsp;

According to a report, Mehbooba has been shifted to a government-owned house at MA Road, Srinagar.&nbsp;

The PDP president was detained from her residence and was shifted to a guest house, located in the foothills of the Zabarwan mountain range in Srinagar. But, due to the early snowfall, the cold conditions have created problems for the former chief minister, her daughter wrote a letter to deputy commissioner of Srinagar requesting to shift her to another location better equipped with heating.

&nbsp;"The accommodation she is currently lodged in is not equipped for Kashmir's harsh winter...... I would like to request you to shift her to another location more suitable." wrote Iltija Mufti, the daughter of Mehbooba.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Omar Abdullah, also the former chief minister of the erstwhile state, has not complained about the cold or other conditions at the Hari Niwas, a government-owned guest house, turned into a sub-jail, sources said.

Keeping in view the weather condition, all the important mainstream leaders who are under detention since August 5, will be relocated to MLAs hostel at MA Road in Srinagar.

They have been detained at SKICC near Dal lake.&nbsp;

The government has detained several mainstream leaders to avoid mass mobilisation by these leaders to protest against the abrogation of Article 370 and dividing the Jammu and Kashmir into two union territories.&nbsp;

The government has decided to move former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti out of Chashmeshahi guest house, a designated sub-jail, to a different location, due to harsh winter conditions, sources said on Saturday.

The government has decided to move former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti out of Chashmeshahi guest house, a designated sub-jail, to a different location, due to harsh winter conditions, sources said on Saturday. Apart from Mehbooba, the government has also decided to relocate the important leaders who have been detained following the abrogation of Article 370. According to a report, Mehbooba has been shifted to a government-owned house at MA Road, Srinagar. The PDP president was detained from her residence and was shifted to a guest house, located in the foothills of the Zabarwan mountain range in Srinagar. But, due to the early snowfall, the cold conditions have created problems for the former chief minister, her daughter wrote a letter to deputy commissioner of Srinagar requesting to shift her to another location better equipped with heating. "The accommodation she is currently lodged in is not equipped for Kashmir's harsh winter...... I would like to request you to shift her to another location more suitable." wrote Iltija Mufti, the daughter of Mehbooba. Meanwhile, Omar Abdullah, also the former chief minister of the erstwhile state, has not complained about the cold or other conditions at the Hari Niwas, a government-owned guest house, turned into a sub-jail, sources said. Keeping in view the weather condition, all the important mainstream leaders who are under detention since August 5, will be relocated to MLAs hostel at MA Road in Srinagar. They have been detained at SKICC near Dal lake. The government has detained several mainstream leaders to avoid mass mobilisation by these leaders to protest against the abrogation of Article 370 and dividing the Jammu and Kashmir into two union territories.

J&K: Mehbooba, other leaders to be moved out of sub-jails due to cold wave in Srinagar

A day after the Jammu and Kashmir government allowed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/national-conference-delegation-meets-farooq-abdullah-in-srinagar-clarifies-stand-on-article-370-254060">National Conference delegation</a> to meet party leaders Farook Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, a 10 member delegation of PDP leaders was also permitted to meet party chief Mahbooba Mufti.

The PDP leaders are scheduled to meet Mehbooba Mufti&nbsp;in Srinagar on Monday.

Speaking to ANI, PDP leader Firdous Tak said, "In the morning, we had requested the Governor to allow us to meet our party chief. Our request has been accepted. We will discuss the current situation and every other issue related to Jammu and Kashmir with Mufti. It has been two months since she and various other party leaders were put under detention."

Political leaders from Kashmir have been put under preventive detention following the abrogation of Article 370 which provided special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference leader Farooq and Omar Abdullah were prominent leaders who were placed under preventive detention by the Jammu and Kashmir administration.

The government had on August 5 scrapped the provision of the article, which took away the special rights enjoyed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The UTs will come into being on October 31.

A 15 member delegation of the National Conference on Sunday met with their party president Farooq Abdullah at his residence in Srinagar where he is currently under house arrest since the abrogation of Article 370. The delegation will meet his son, Omar Abdullah, separately, later in the day.

(With inputs from ANI)

A day after the Jammu and Kashmir government allowed National Conference delegation to meet party leaders Farook Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, a 10 member delegation of PDP leaders was also permitted to meet party chief Mahbooba Mufti.

A day after the Jammu and Kashmir government allowed National Conference delegation to meet party leaders Farook Abdullah and Omar Abdullah, a 10 member delegation of PDP leaders was also permitted to meet party chief Mahbooba Mufti. The PDP leaders are scheduled to meet Mehbooba Mufti in Srinagar on Monday. Speaking to ANI, PDP leader Firdous Tak said, "In the morning, we had requested the Governor to allow us to meet our party chief. Our request has been accepted. We will discuss the current situation and every other issue related to Jammu and Kashmir with Mufti. It has been two months since she and various other party leaders were put under detention." Political leaders from Kashmir have been put under preventive detention following the abrogation of Article 370 which provided special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference leader Farooq and Omar Abdullah were prominent leaders who were placed under preventive detention by the Jammu and Kashmir administration. The government had on August 5 scrapped the provision of the article, which took away the special rights enjoyed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The UTs will come into being on October 31. A 15 member delegation of the National Conference on Sunday met with their party president Farooq Abdullah at his residence in Srinagar where he is currently under house arrest since the abrogation of Article 370. The delegation will meet his son, Omar Abdullah, separately, later in the day. (With inputs from ANI)

After NC delegation meets Farooq Abdullah, PDP leaders also allowed to meet Mehbooba Mufti

Two months after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/political-leaders-from-kashmir-under-preventive-detention-to-be-released-soon-jk-administration-253517">government detained political leaders</a> from Jammu and Kashmir, a delegation of National Conference leaders on Saturday was allowed to meet the father-son duo Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah.

The meeting is scheduled for Sunday and will take place in Srinagar.

"Today, we've got the confirmation that a delegation will be allowed to meet Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah. A 15-member delegation of NC leaders, all of them former legislators, is going to Srinagar tomorrow morning, " National Conference leader Devender Rana said in Jammu.

"The delegation led by provincial president Devender Singh Rana and comprising of former party legislators will leave by Indigo flight from Jammu on October 6 in the morning," party spokesperson&nbsp;Madan Mantoo&nbsp;said.

The spokesperson informed that the government gave permission after a request was made by Rana to Governor Satya Pal Malik on Thursday.

Political leaders from Kashmir have been put under preventive detention following the abrogation of Article 370 which provided special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference leader Farooq and Omar Abdullah were prominent leaders who were placed under preventive detention by the Jammu and Kashmir administration.

The government had on August 5 scrapped the provision of the article, which took away the special rights enjoyed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The UTs will come into being on October 31.

(With inputs from ANI)

Two months after the government detained political leaders from Jammu and Kashmir, a delegation of National Conference leaders on Saturday was allowed to meet the father-son duo Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah.

Two months after the government detained political leaders from Jammu and Kashmir, a delegation of National Conference leaders on Saturday was allowed to meet the father-son duo Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah. The meeting is scheduled for Sunday and will take place in Srinagar. "Today, we've got the confirmation that a delegation will be allowed to meet Farooq Abdullah and Omar Abdullah. A 15-member delegation of NC leaders, all of them former legislators, is going to Srinagar tomorrow morning, " National Conference leader Devender Rana said in Jammu. "The delegation led by provincial president Devender Singh Rana and comprising of former party legislators will leave by Indigo flight from Jammu on October 6 in the morning," party spokesperson Madan Mantoo said. The spokesperson informed that the government gave permission after a request was made by Rana to Governor Satya Pal Malik on Thursday. Political leaders from Kashmir have been put under preventive detention following the abrogation of Article 370 which provided special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. People's Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference leader Farooq and Omar Abdullah were prominent leaders who were placed under preventive detention by the Jammu and Kashmir administration. The government had on August 5 scrapped the provision of the article, which took away the special rights enjoyed by the people of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated the state into two Union Territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. The UTs will come into being on October 31. (With inputs from ANI)

National Conference delegation allowed to meet Farooq Abdullah, Omar Abdullah

Scrapping of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revoked-from-jammu-and-kashmir-all-you-need-to-know-240772">Article 370 </a>in Jammu and Kashmir, instead of bringing two former chief ministers together on one platform, led to more bitterness between the two.

According to reports, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-omar-abdullah-mehbooba-mufti-detained-after-special-status-to-jammu-and-kashmir-is-revoked-240931">Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah</a> had an argument over the present state of Jammu and Kashmir at Hari Niwas Palace in Srinagar, where the two former chief ministers have been put under preventive custody after the abolishment of Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Reports said that Omar and Mehbooba blamed each other for bringing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to the valley. 
 
Omar hit out at her for forming government in J&amp;K between 2015-2018 with BJP as the alliance partner whereas Mehbooba slammed Omar, saying that his father Farooq Abdullah had an alliance with Atal Bihari Vajpayee government.

Following the nasty argument, Omar was shifted out to a hut, managed by the forest department, in Chesmashahi.

Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference deputy chief Omar Abdullah were taken under preventive arrest last week abolished Article 370 and moved a separate bill to bifurcate the state into two separate union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. 
 
The Centre has deployed a huge contingent of central forces in the Valley anticipating violence after scrapping Article 370. 
 
Meanwhile, NSA Ajit Doval is also present in Jammu and Kashmir to take a review of the situation on the ground. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Scrapping of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, instead of bringing two former chief ministers together on one platform, led to more bitterness between the two. According to reports, Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah had an argument over the present state of Jammu and Kashmir at Hari Niwas Palace in Srinagar, where the two former chief ministers have been put under preventive custody after the abolishment of Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Scrapping of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir, instead of bringing two former chief ministers together on one platform, led to more bitterness between the two. According to reports, Mehbooba Mufti and Omar Abdullah had an argument over the present state of Jammu and Kashmir at Hari Niwas Palace in Srinagar, where the two former chief ministers have been put under preventive custody after the abolishment of Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Reports said that Omar and Mehbooba blamed each other for bringing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to the valley. Omar hit out at her for forming government in J&K between 2015-2018 with BJP as the alliance partner whereas Mehbooba slammed Omar, saying that his father Farooq Abdullah had an alliance with Atal Bihari Vajpayee government. Following the nasty argument, Omar was shifted out to a hut, managed by the forest department, in Chesmashahi. Mehbooba Mufti and National Conference deputy chief Omar Abdullah were taken under preventive arrest last week abolished Article 370 and moved a separate bill to bifurcate the state into two separate union territories of Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. The Centre has deployed a huge contingent of central forces in the Valley anticipating violence after scrapping Article 370. Meanwhile, NSA Ajit Doval is also present in Jammu and Kashmir to take a review of the situation on the ground. (With inputs from agencies)

Jammu and Kashmir: Omar Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti 'fight it out' at Srinagar's Hari Niwas Palace

Here's How Things Are Changing On The Ground In J&K After The Abrogation Of Article 370. Indian government is likely to introduce sweeping reforms to end the misuse of public funds in Jammu and Kashmir. For instance, the privileges of former CMs are all set to go, they may lose their bungalows. Wion's Ieshan Wani filed this report.

WION Gravitas: Jammu & Kashmir: Former CMs privileges all set to go

So, how are things changing on the ground in Jammu and Kashmir after the government's decision to change the state's status. Take a look at WION's report on the luxuries Kashmir's powerful have enjoyed so far.

Former Jammu and Kashmir chief ministers may lose their official bungalows

After UAE and Sri Lanka, now the Maldives has backed India government's move to scrap Article 370, Article 35A and bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories (UTs).

The Maldivian government released a statement on Tuesday backing Indian move that aims integrate Kashmir more closely with the rest of the country.

"The Maldives considers the decision taken by the Government of India regarding Article 370 of the Indian Constitution as an internal matter," an official statement by the Maldives government said.

"We believe that it is the right of every sovereign nation to amend their laws as required," it added.

On Tuesday, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe backed the creation of a new Union Territory of Ladakh, noting it would be the first Indian state with a Buddhist majority.

Wickremesinghe, in a tweet, also said that the creation of Ladakh and the restructuring of Jammu and Kashmir were India's internal matters.

The UAE Ambassador Ahmad Al Banna said his country has taken note of the Indian government`s decision to abrogate Article 370 that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and added that it was India`s internal matter aimed at improving efficiency.

"We also took note of the introduction of Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill in the Indian Parliament aimed at replacing Article 370 with the creation of Ladakh region and the state of Jammu and Kashmir as India`s two new Union Territories," he said.

India abrogated Article 370 which accorded a special status to Jammu and Kashmir after a resolution regarding the same was passed in both houses of the Parliament.

The Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill 2019 was also passed. It strips Jammu and Kashmir's status of a state, converting it into two Union Territories — namely Jammu and Kashmir (with a legislature) and Ladakh (without legislature). 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

After UAE and Sri Lanka, now the Maldives has backed India government's move to scrap Article 370, Article 35A and bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories (UTs).

After UAE and Sri Lanka, now the Maldives has backed India government's move to scrap Article 370, Article 35A and bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories (UTs). The Maldivian government released a statement on Tuesday backing Indian move that aims integrate Kashmir more closely with the rest of the country. "The Maldives considers the decision taken by the Government of India regarding Article 370 of the Indian Constitution as an internal matter," an official statement by the Maldives government said. "We believe that it is the right of every sovereign nation to amend their laws as required," it added. On Tuesday, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe backed the creation of a new Union Territory of Ladakh, noting it would be the first Indian state with a Buddhist majority. Wickremesinghe, in a tweet, also said that the creation of Ladakh and the restructuring of Jammu and Kashmir were India's internal matters. The UAE Ambassador Ahmad Al Banna said his country has taken note of the Indian government`s decision to abrogate Article 370 that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and added that it was India`s internal matter aimed at improving efficiency. "We also took note of the introduction of Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill in the Indian Parliament aimed at replacing Article 370 with the creation of Ladakh region and the state of Jammu and Kashmir as India`s two new Union Territories," he said. India abrogated Article 370 which accorded a special status to Jammu and Kashmir after a resolution regarding the same was passed in both houses of the Parliament. The Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill 2019 was also passed. It strips Jammu and Kashmir's status of a state, converting it into two Union Territories — namely Jammu and Kashmir (with a legislature) and Ladakh (without legislature). (With inputs from agencies)

Article 370: After UAE and Sri Lanka, now Maldives back  Indian government's move

omar-abdullah

Omar Abdullah, News on Omar Abdullah, stories on Omar Abdullah, articles on Omar Abdullah, Omar Abdullah stories at Wion, Omar Abdullah news, Omar Abdullah latest news

omar abdullah