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Kashmiri Artisans Striving to Keep the Mughal-Era Leather Industry Alive

Editorial Staff
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Kashmiri Artisans Striving to Keep the Mughal-Era Leather Industry Alive

The leather craftsmanship in Kashmir dates back to the Mughal era when the region gained fame for its high-quality leather products.

In an age of modernization, declining demand, and the increasing preference for alternatives, Kashmiri artisans are striving to keep the leather industry alive.

Once a thriving trade, this industry is now in decline. Historically, it provided employment to hundreds of skilled artisans, but today, it faces significant challenges.

Kashmir’s leather craftsmanship began during the Mughal era, a time when the region was renowned for its premium leather products.

From shoes, bags, and belts to traditional items like Gurgabi (Kashmiri leather shoes), every product reflects intricate craftsmanship and cultural pride.

The process involves labor-intensive techniques that are passed down orally or through apprenticeships.

Artisans meticulously prepare raw hides, using natural dyes and shaping the leather into various forms.

A leather craftsman, Ghulam Nabi, told Independent Urdu, “Our market is not doing well this time, and we earn only a small profit, just enough to make a living.”

Ghulam Nabi further explained, “We used to buy leather from Madras, but the Indian government shut down those factories. Some are still operating, but most leather factories have closed.”

He added, “There are around 12,000 leather artisans in Jammu and Kashmir who survive on this limited work, but business is very slow.”

“This work is deteriorating day by day. Market prices are dropping, and the decline in work is destroying our livelihoods,” he lamented.

Despite all the challenges, the hard work and creativity of Kashmiri artisans highlight their unwavering commitment to preserving this heritage.

What is Special About Kashmir’s Famous Folk Dance Rouf? Rouf’s Connection with Eid?

Editorial Staff
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What is Special About Kashmir’s Famous Folk Dance Rouf? Rouf’s Connection with Eid?

Rouf (pronounced ‘Ruf’) is one of the most famous traditional dance forms of Jammu and Kashmir. This folk dance was historically performed to celebrate the beginning of Ramadan and later on Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha. However, in modern times, Rouf has become limited to wedding ceremonies, as the younger generation of Kashmiri women shows little interest in learning or performing it.

Sirjit, a young woman from Srinagar’s central area, recalls stories from her mother about women who once gathered in large numbers to perform Rouf on festive occasions. In the 1990s, dozens of women in Pulwama, South Kashmir, would assemble in their courtyards during Eid celebrations and perform Rouf, marking the festive spirit of the region.

The Unique Charm of Rouf Dance

Many people in Kashmir believe that the movements of Rouf are inspired by the motion of honeybees hovering around flowers. The dance is performed by a group of women standing in two rows facing each other, engaging in synchronized movements.

One of the most distinctive features of Rouf is its intricate footwork, known as Chakri, a complex sequence of steps that adds elegance to the performance. Another remarkable aspect is the singing style accompanying the dance one group poses a question through song lyrics, and the other group responds in the form of a melodic answer.

For example, in a popular Rouf song, one group sings:
🟢 “Eid Aayi Ras” (Eid has come slowly).
To which the other group replies:
“Eidgah Wasay Wi” (Let’s go to Eidgah).

This call-and-response singing style enhances the rhythmic beauty of Rouf and adds to its cultural significance.

The Decline of Rouf

Despite its historical importance, Rouf is gradually fading from Kashmir’s cultural landscape. While it was once an integral part of Eid celebrations, today it is mostly confined to wedding events. The younger generation of Kashmiri women shows less interest in learning or performing it, leading to a decline in its popularity.

However, some cultural organizations and enthusiasts in Kashmir are working towards reviving Rouf by promoting it at festivals, schools, and cultural events, ensuring that this beautiful heritage dance does not disappear.

Rouf remains a symbol of Kashmiri tradition, reflecting the grace, rhythm, and collective spirit of Kashmiri women, and continues to be cherished by those who strive to keep it alive.

Kashmiri Calendar: History, Evolution, and Cultural Significance

Editorial Staff
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Kashmiri Calendar: History, Evolution, and Cultural Significance

The Kashmiri Calendar is an important traditional timekeeping system used in the Kashmir region. It is a blend of the Hindu Solar Calendar (Saptarishi Samvat) and the Islamic Lunar Calendar (Hijri Calendar), making it a unique system that reflects the region’s diverse cultural and religious heritage.

In this article, we will explore the origins, structure, and importance of the Kashmiri Calendar, its historical background, and how it is still relevant today in cultural, religious, and agricultural contexts.

Historical Background of the Kashmiri Calendar

The Kashmiri Calendar has been in use for centuries and is deeply rooted in the history of Kashmir. The primary influence on this calendar comes from Saptarishi Samvat, an ancient Hindu calendar system, which is said to have begun in 3076 BCE. However, over time, the calendar has incorporated aspects of the Islamic Hijri Calendar and the Gregorian Calendar, particularly in the modern era.

Saptarishi Samvat Influence

The Saptarishi Samvat is an ancient calendar system that has played a significant role in shaping the traditional Kashmiri Calendar. This era is believed to have begun in 3076 BCE, making it one of the oldest continuously used calendar systems in the world. The name Saptarishi (meaning “Seven Sages”) refers to a group of revered sages in Hindu mythology who are believed to guide humanity through different ages (Yugas). It is said that this calendar was started when the Saptarishi constellation (Ursa Major) was in a particular position in the sky, which marked the beginning of a new time cycle.

  • The Saptarishi Era, which dates back to 3076 BCE, is believed to be the basis of the traditional Kashmiri Calendar.
  • This calendar follows the solar system, where the movement of the sun determines the months.
  • It is still used by Kashmiri Pandits for religious festivals and traditional agricultural practices.

Islamic Hijri Calendar Influence

The Islamic Hijri Calendar has played a crucial role in shaping the cultural and religious life of Kashmir, influencing the way time is recorded and festivals are observed. Introduced with the spread of Islam in the region, the Hijri calendar continues to be significant, especially among the Muslim population. It was introduced in 622 CE when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) migrated from Makkah to Madinah, an event known as the Hijrah, marking the beginning of the Islamic calendar.

With the arrival of Islam in Kashmir, particularly during the 14th century, the Hijri Calendar became widely adopted for religious and administrative purposes. Important events such as Ramadan (fasting month), Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha, Muharram, and Shab-e-Barat are all determined using the Hijri calendar. Many Kashmiri Muslims follow both the Hijri and Gregorian Calendars for religious and official purposes.

Gregorian Calendar Integration

During British rule and post-independence, the Gregorian Calendar became the official system for administration and business. However, Kashmiri cultural and religious traditions still rely on the traditional Kashmiri Calendar for various ceremonies and agricultural practices.

Months of the Kashmiri Calendar

The Kashmiri Calendar consists of 12 months, similar to the Hindu and Gregorian calendars. The names of the months are derived from Sanskrit and Persian influences.

Kashmiri MonthEquivalent Gregorian Months
Chet (چیت)March – April
Vaisakh (وۍساکھ)April – May
Jeth (جیتھ)May – June
Har (ہار)June – July
Sawan (ساوُن)July – August
Bhadoon (بهاڏوں)August – September
Asuj (اسوج)September – October
Kartik (کارتيک)October – November
Mangir (منگھر)November – December
Poh (پوھ)December – January
Magh (ماغھ)January – February
Phagun (پھَگُن)February – March

Kashmiri Festivals Based on This Calendar

  1. Navreh (New Year in Kashmiri Calendar – March/April)
  2. Herath (Shivratri – February/March)
  3. Mela Kheer Bhawani (June)
  4. Urs of Sufi Saints (Throughout the Year)
  5. Islamic Festivals (Eid, Shab-e-Barat, Muharram, etc.)

Cultural Importance of the Kashmiri Calendar

The Kashmiri Calendar holds immense cultural significance, deeply rooted in the traditions, festivals, and daily lives of the people of Kashmir. It serves as a guide for religious, agricultural, and social events, reflecting the unique blend of Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic influences in Kashmiri history.

1. Role in Kashmiri Festivals and Traditions

  • The Kashmiri Calendar determines the dates for major festivals and celebrations that have been observed for centuries.
  • For Hindus: The calendar sets the timing for Navreh (Kashmiri New Year), Herath (Kashmiri Shivratri), Zyeth Atham, and other religious ceremonies.
  • For Muslims: The Hijri calendar, which coexists with the traditional Kashmiri calendar, determines Ramadan, Eid, and Urs festivals of Sufi saints, which are widely celebrated in Kashmir.
  • Many seasonal fairs, such as Mela Kheer Bhawani and Shivratri celebrations, are planned according to the lunar and solar calendars.

2. Agricultural and Seasonal Significance

  • The rhythms of the Kashmiri calendar align with seasonal changes, guiding farmers in sowing and harvesting crops.
  • Traditional Kashmiri farmers follow the Bikrami (Vikram Samvat) calendar to determine the best time for planting rice, saffron, apples, and walnuts.
  • Even today, many rural Kashmiri families consult Panchangs (Hindu almanacs) to track weather cycles, solstices, and eclipses before making major farming decisions.

3. Influence on Kashmiri Folk Traditions and Rituals

  • Kashmiri folklore, poetry, and Sufi traditions are closely tied to the Kashmiri calendar.
  • Traditional Kashmiri weddings follow specific auspicious dates (Saath) set by local astrologers using the Kashmiri calendar.
  • Important fasting and prayer days for both Hindus and Muslims are determined using the calendar’s guidance.

4. Importance in Kashmiri Literature and Historical Records

  • Ancient Kashmiri texts, such as Rajatarangini (The River of Kings) by Kalhana, reference the Kashmiri calendar to document the reigns of kings and historical events.
  • Many historical inscriptions, land records, and manuscripts from medieval Kashmir are dated using traditional calendar systems, helping historians understand the region’s past.

5. Coexistence with Other Calendars

  • Over the centuries, the Kashmiri Calendar has evolved, influenced by the Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic timekeeping systems.
  • Today, Kashmiris use a mix of calendars:
    • Traditional Kashmiri Calendar for cultural and religious events.
    • Hijri Calendar for Islamic observances.
    • Gregorian Calendar for official and administrative purposes.
  • This unique blend of calendar systems reflects Kashmir’s rich and diverse heritage.

6. Revival and Digital Preservation

  • With the advent of technology, the Kashmiri calendar is being preserved digitally through mobile apps, Panchang websites, and online heritage projects.
  • Scholars and cultural organizations are working to document and revive the traditional Kashmiri way of tracking time.

Modern Usage and Digital Adaptations

With the advancement of technology, Kashmiri Calendar apps and digital tools are now available. These apps provide: ✅ Daily Panchang (Hindu Almanac) ✅ Islamic Prayer Timings ✅ Gregorian Calendar Integration ✅ Seasonal Weather Predictions

Comparison with Other Calendars

FeatureKashmiri CalendarHindu Vikram SamvatIslamic HijriGregorian Calendar
SystemSolar & LunarSolarLunarSolar
Start of YearMarch/AprilMarch/AprilMuharramJanuary
Religious SignificanceHindu & IslamicHinduIslamicSecular
Official UseCultural & ReligiousReligiousReligiousGovernment & Business

Important Kashmiri Festivals in 2025

The Kashmiri Calendar marks several cultural and religious festivals, celebrated by different communities.

Kashmiri Hindu Festivals

  • Navreh (Kashmiri New Year) – March 30, 2025
  • Herath (Maha Shivratri) – February 26, 2025
  • Zyeth Atham – June 6, 2025
  • Mela Kheer Bhawani – June 13, 2025
  • Janmashtami – August 16, 2025
  • Diwali – October 21, 2025

Islamic Festivals (Based on the Hijri Calendar)

  • Ramadan Begins – February 28, 2025 (subject to moon sighting)
  • Eid-ul-Fitr – March 30, 2025
  • Eid-ul-Adha – June 7, 2025
  • Muharram (Islamic New Year) – June 27, 2025
  • Milad-un-Nabi – September 5, 2025

Buddhist Festivals in Ladakh

  • Losar (Tibetan New Year) – December 30, 2024
  • Buddha Purnima – May 12, 2025

Types of Calendars Used in Jammu & Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir, with its diverse cultural and religious landscape, follows multiple calendar systems for religious, social, and administrative purposes. The primary calendars used in the region include the Kashmiri Hindu Calendar (Saptarishi Samvat), the Islamic Hijri Calendar, the Vikram Samvat, the Gregorian Calendar, and the Buddhist Calendar. Each of these plays a unique role in the lives of the people.

Kashmiri Calendar Today Date

As of Wednesday, February 12, 2025, the corresponding dates in various calendars are:

  • Kashmiri Hindu Calendar: Shukla Paksha Purnima in the month of Magha, Vikram Samvat 2081.

  • Islamic Hijri Calendar: 13th Sha’ban 1446 AH.

In the Kashmiri Hindu Calendar, today is Magha Purnima, a full moon day considered auspicious for various religious observances. In the Islamic Hijri Calendar, it is the 13th day of Sha’ban, the eighth month of the Islamic lunar calendar.

Conclusion

The Kashmiri Calendar is an important part of Kashmir’s cultural and religious identity. While the Gregorian Calendar is used for official and administrative purposes, the traditional Kashmiri Calendar remains relevant in agriculture, festivals, astrology, and spiritual practices.

Today, efforts are being made to preserve this calendar through digital tools, mobile apps, and cultural awareness programs. Whether it’s planning a wedding, celebrating Navreh, or aligning agricultural activities, the Kashmiri Calendar continues to play a vital role in the lives of the people of Kashmir.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Flag Discovered in Kashmir’s Doda District, Police Probe Underway

Noreen Haider
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Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Flag Discovered in Kashmir’s Doda District, Police Probe Underway

Doda, Kashmir: A political flag of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the political party led by former cricketer Imran Khan, was recently found hanging from a tree in the Gurera Panchayat area of Doda district. The flag, along with several colorful balloons, caused alarm among the local population, prompting the Jammu and Kashmir Police to launch an immediate investigation into the matter.

The situation began when local civilians contacted the police around 4:00 PM on 10 February, reporting that a flag was hanging from a large tree in the area. Police arrived at the scene to find the flag and several balloons caught in the branches of a walnut tree. The presence of the PTI flag raised immediate concerns among the residents, given the region’s sensitive security situation.

According to Jammu Kashmir police officials, the tree was too large for anyone to easily climb, and it took several hours to coordinate a safe response. By morning, after conducting a thorough investigation of the area, the police were able to safely retrieve the flag and inspect the balloons. The balloons were also checked for any hidden messages or devices, but nothing unusual was found. Despite the thorough search, no letters, explosives, or devices were discovered within the balloons or the flag.

The flag’s design, which prominently features the PTI logo and symbols, immediately indicated it was a political banner associated with Pakistan’s current political scenario. The presence of the flag raised questions about how it ended up in this remote region of Kashmir. The police have not ruled out the possibility that it might have been carried here by the wind, although investigations are ongoing to determine whether it was intentionally placed there by someone.

The PTI flag found in Doda bore no other markings except the party’s logo and some regional symbols. The balloons, which were brightly colored and scattered around the tree, did not contain any letters, explosives, or devices, further confirming the situation was not an immediate security threat.

However, after conducting a thorough search and investigation, the police found no evidence supporting this theory.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have assured the public that the situation is under control. Authorities are continuing their investigation into how the flag came to be in the area, and have promised to keep the community informed of any developments.

Local leaders have expressed concern about how such incidents could affect the delicate communal harmony in the region. The Gurera Panchayat, which includes both Hindu and Muslim residents, has long been known for its strong sense of brotherhood. The residents worked together overnight to ensure that no harmful elements were hidden within the flag or the balloons, demonstrating solidarity in the face of potential unrest.

As investigations continue, the local community remains vigilant, and authorities are keen to ensure that the peace is maintained. The police are also exploring whether the wind could have carried the flag into the area from another region, or if it was deliberately placed as part of a larger political statement.

In the meantime, residents and officials are urging calm, and the Jammu Kashmir Police are taking all necessary precautions to prevent any further escalation. The case remains under investigation, and more information will be shared with the public as it becomes available.

Jammu: Yuva Rajput Sabha Warns Indian Government Over Statehood Demand, Tension Rises at Tawi Bridge

Editorial Staff
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Jammu: Yuva Rajput Sabha Warns Indian Government Over Statehood Demand, Tension Rises at Tawi Bridge

Jammu, Jammu Kashmir: The Yuva Rajput Sabha has once again intensified its demand for the restoration of statehood for Jammu and Kashmir, issuing a stern warning to the government of India. In a dramatic turn of events, Sabha members gathered in large numbers near Tawi Bridge, raising slogans and expressing their frustration over the delay in restoring Jammu and Kashmir’s statehood.

According to sources, tensions escalated near Tawi Bridge, prompting a swift response from the police. Security forces were deployed to the area to prevent any untoward incidents and to maintain law and order.

The Yuva Rajput Sabha has been vocal about its demands, stating that the people of Jammu have been sidelined, and their rights must be restored. They warned that if the government fails to take immediate action, they will escalate their protests in the coming days.

Tensions remain high in the area, and authorities are closely monitoring the situation. The key question is whether the government will respond to the Sabha’s demands or whether the protests will escalate further. Stay tuned for more updates.

Kashmiri Teacher Unveils the Kashmir’s First Solar-Powered Car: A Vision 16 Years in the Making

Editorial Staff
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Kashmiri Teacher Unveils the Kashmir’s First Solar-Powered Car: A Vision 16 Years in the Making

Srinagar, Kashmir: In a groundbreaking move toward sustainable mobility, Bilal Ahmad Mir, a mathematics teacher from Kashmir, is set to launch the region’s first solar-powered car, “RAY,” on June 22, 2025. This achievement comes after 16 years of relentless dedication, hard work, and innovation. Mir, who invested over Rs 22 lakh in his dream project by selling a portion of his ancestral property, aims to make clean and affordable energy accessible to the masses in Kashmir and beyond.

A Vision Born in 2009

In 2009, Mir conceived the idea of creating an affordable, eco-friendly car for the common people of Kashmir. With no formal engineering background, Mir began his journey by researching car technology and solar energy, driven by his desire to contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable world. What began as an ambitious dream has now evolved into “RAY,” a 1kW solar-powered car designed with advanced technology, efficiency, and accessibility at its core.

Speaking about his project, Mir emphasized, “From the very beginning, my goal was to make an affordable, environmentally friendly car that everyone could use. Today, as I unveil RAY, I am proud to say that this is the region’s first solar-powered car that can run entirely on solar energy, even in harsh weather conditions like snow or overcast skies.”

The RAY: A Technological Marvel

RAY is equipped with state-of-the-art solar panels, capable of charging the vehicle even under suboptimal conditions, such as overcast weather or snow, where traditional electric vehicles might struggle. The car’s innovative solar panels are sensor-optimized, allowing them to automatically adjust their orientation to capture the maximum amount of sunlight, ensuring constant energy generation.

The car features a 1kW solar-powered system, a high-tech Battery Management System (BMS) for power efficiency, and autonomous parking sensors for safety. What sets RAY apart from other solar cars in the market is its performance and design. While other solar-powered cars in the region generate only 100 watts of power, RAY is a powerful alternative with its 1kW solar panel system. Additionally, the car’s music-responsive rear lighting, gull-wing doors integrated with solar panels, and a unique dual power system combining solar energy and a rechargeable battery are features that elevate RAY’s appeal.

Affordable and Sustainable Mobility

One of the most striking aspects of RAY is its affordability. Priced at under Rs 10 lakh, RAY is positioned to be an accessible solution for a broad range of consumers, with the potential to revolutionize the local automobile market. In a region like Kashmir, where affordability is a crucial factor in purchasing decisions, Mir’s solar-powered car offers a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to both traditional petrol-diesel cars and electric vehicles (EVs).

“RAY’s aim is to provide affordable mobility without compromising on sustainability. Unlike conventional vehicles that need constant charging, RAY runs continuously on solar power, eliminating the need for frequent external charging. The cost-effective pricing ensures that even the common person can access a cleaner, greener mode of transport,” Mir stated.

A Leap Toward Clean Energy

Mir’s journey toward creating RAY has not been easy. Over the years, he has worked tirelessly, transforming his backyard into a workshop where he developed his first prototype. Beginning with a 1988 Nissan Micra, Mir initially converted the car to an electric vehicle before turning it into a solar-powered model. His commitment to research and development culminated in a final product that is set to compete globally, not just locally.

Internationally, RAY competes with solar-powered car manufacturers like Dutch-based Lightyear and US-based Aptera Motors, both of which are leaders in the field. Mir’s confidence is evident when he says, “In Kashmir, I have no competition. My only global competitors are Lightyear and Aptera Motors. But I believe that RAY’s performance, design, and energy efficiency make it a unique player in the solar car market.”

Testing, Safety, and Future Plans

Ahead of the official launch, Mir has already conducted rigorous testing of RAY, including in the harsh climate of Kashmir. From the extreme cold of the winter months to the intense heat of summer, RAY has withstood all challenges, proving its durability and reliability. Additionally, the car has passed all necessary safety tests, ensuring that it meets global standards.

RAY will begin its roadshows on March 31, 2025, with stops in high-altitude locations like Gulmarg and Pahalgam, as well as on Boulevard Road in Srinagar. These roadshows will serve both as an advertisement campaign and as an awareness drive to promote the need for clean-fuel vehicles in Kashmir.

A Global Vision for the Future

Mir’s innovation has the potential to inspire a global shift towards sustainable transportation. Beyond RAY’s commercial success, his ultimate goal is to encourage other engineers and innovators to explore alternative energy solutions, helping to address the pressing environmental issues caused by conventional fuel-based vehicles.

As Mir looks to the future, he is not just thinking about Kashmir. He is already planning to expand RAY into international markets. “This is just the beginning. The world is ready for clean, solar-powered mobility, and I am confident that RAY will lead the way,” he said.

A Local Hero with Global Aspirations

Bilal Ahmad Mir’s journey is a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and innovation. Despite limited resources, Mir’s passion for clean energy has enabled him to achieve what many would have deemed impossible. With RAY, he has not only created a sustainable alternative to traditional vehicles but has also paved the way for the future of clean, solar-powered transportation.

Mir’s work serves as an inspiration, not just to the people of Kashmir, but to aspiring engineers and innovators around the world. His success story is a powerful reminder that with determination and ingenuity, even the most ambitious ideas can be turned into reality.

As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change and environmental degradation, RAY could represent a small but significant step toward a cleaner, greener future.

Mirpur Bar Elections: Mahmood Chaudhry Elected President, Gul Bahar Chaudhry as Vice President, Mian Adnan Syed as Joint Secretary

    Editorial Staff
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    Mirpur Bar Elections: Mahmood Chaudhry Elected President, Gul Bahar Chaudhry as Vice President, Mian Adnan Syed as Joint Secretary

    Mirpur, Azad Kashmir – The District Bar Elections in Mirpur, Azad Kashmir, have been successfully completed.

    In the elections, the United Panel secured a major victory, winning six key positions, including the presidency. Meanwhile, candidates from the Professional and Progressive Panel also secured two positions.

    Election Results

    The following candidates emerged victorious:

    🔹 United Panel:

    • Mahmood Hussain Chaudhry Advocate – President (406 votes)
    • Gul Bahar Chaudhry – Vice President (445 votes)
    • Mian Adnan Syed Advocate – Joint Secretary (435 votes)
    • Syed Abu Al-Hassan Advocate – Finance Secretary (308 votes)
    • Hafiz Sajjad-ul-Haq Advocate – Information Secretary (355 votes)
    • Raja Qamar Yaseen Advocate – Library Secretary (367 votes)

    🔹 Professional & Progressive Panel:

    • Muhammad Fayaz Advocate – General Secretary (426 votes)
    • Asma Majeed Advocate – Vice President (Women’s Seat) (431 votes)

    Polling and Election Atmosphere

    The voting process lasted from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, with 683 lawyers casting their votes. The District Courts were abuzz with election excitement, and supporters of both panels displayed great enthusiasm. The polling was conducted peacefully without any disruptions.

    Following the announcement of results, the winning candidates celebrated their victory with traditional drumbeats and festivities.

    The Election Board Chairman, Mirza Qamar Zaman Advocate, supervised the entire election process.

    Hatian Bala Resident Missing in Karachi for 9 Months – Family Appeals to AJK PM and Sindh CM for Recovery

      Editorial Staff
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      Hatian Bala Resident Missing in Karachi for 9 Months – Family Appeals to AJK PM and Sindh CM for Recovery

      Hatian Bala: A resident of Gurthama, Chinari, a village in Jhelum Valley, Azad Kashmir, who traveled to Karachi for labor work, has been missing for the past nine months, leaving his family in distress.

      Wife’s Plea – Threatens Suicide

      The wife of the missing man, Kausar Jabeen, along with her four children, reached the District Press Club Hatian Bala, pleading for her husband’s safe return. Overcome with despair, she threatened to jump into the river along with her children if no action was taken.

      “My Children Are Forced to Sleep Hungry”

      Kausar Jabeen stated that her husband, Khalid Nazir Khilji, worked as a laborer in Daily Colony, Karachi, but she has not heard from him for the past nine months. Their financial situation has worsened drastically, and the children are suffering from starvation.

      “We are struggling to survive, but now the situation has become unbearable. I am living like a widow, and my children are like orphans, yet no one is willing to help us.”

      Authorities’ Negligence – An Appeal for Help

      Kausar Jabeen revealed that she had approached the Jhelum Valley administration two months ago, requesting her husband’s recovery and temporary shelter for her children. However, no action has been taken so far.

      She has appealed to Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir Chaudhry Anwar-ul-Haq, Chief Minister of Sindh, Federal Interior Minister, Chief Secretaries, IG Sindh, and IG AJK to intervene immediately and help recover her husband.

      “If my husband’s whereabouts – dead or alive – are not confirmed, and if we are not provided with support, I will be forced to take my own life along with my children.”

      The distressed family has also urged philanthropists to step forward and assist them in providing food and shelter for the suffering children.

      Authorities’ Silence Raises Serious Concerns

      The mysterious disappearance of a Kashmiri laborer in Karachi for nine months and the authorities’ inaction highlight a grave human rights issue. The governments of Azad Kashmir and Sindh must take immediate steps to recover the missing citizen and support his struggling family.

      The Azadi Times is closely monitoring the case and urges the authorities to take immediate action to ensure justice for the missing citizen and his helpless family.

      Kashmir Digital Launched: A New Chapter in Kashmiri Journalism

      Editorial Staff
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      Kashmir Digital Launched: A New Chapter in Kashmiri Journalism

      Muzaffarabad: The digital media landscape in Azad Jammu and Kashmir continues to evolve, with the recent launch of Kashmir Digital marking another step toward modern journalism. The inauguration ceremony, held on February 9, 2025, at PC Hotel Muzaffarabad, brought together political, social, and media personalities, highlighting the growing influence of digital journalism in the region.

      Commitment to Modern Journalism

      Speaking at the event, Kashmir Digital’s CEO, Masoor Abbasi, emphasized the network’s mission to bring credible news, investigative journalism, and cultural representation to a broader audience. He stated that the platform aims to amplify Kashmiri voices on a global stage and provide factual reporting through cutting-edge technology.

      Political Leaders Welcome the Initiative

      Several key political figures attended the event, expressing their views on Kashmir Digital’s role in shaping the future of journalism:

      • Raja Farooq Mumtaz, a senior leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) AJK, hailed the launch as a positive step for Kashmiri media. He highlighted its potential to support the Kashmir cause and bring regional issues into mainstream discussions.
      • Opposition leader in the AJK Legislative Assembly, Khawaja Farooq Ahmed, also welcomed the initiative, stating:

        “This is an important milestone for journalism in Kashmir. A stronger media presence will not only promote freedom of expression but also contribute to making AJK a model state.”

      Bridging Gaps and Strengthening Narratives

      The speakers underscored the need for independent journalism in the region, calling for a stronger media presence to counter misinformation and ensure the accurate portrayal of Kashmir on international platforms. The event also facilitated discussions on the political and economic challenges facing AJK, reinforcing the role of digital media in shaping public discourse.

      The Future of Digital Journalism in AJK

      As an established voice in independent journalism, The Azadi Times continues to monitor the region’s evolving media landscape. The launch of new digital platforms like Kashmir Digital reflects the growing demand for factual, unbiased, and locally relevant news.

      The success of such platforms will depend on editorial integrity, investigative rigor, and a commitment to truth, and values

      AJK Government Not Serious About Empowering Local Bodies, Future Plan to Be Announced on February 15 – Local Representatives

      Editorial Staff
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      AJK Government Not Serious About Empowering Local Bodies, Future Plan to Be Announced on February 15 – Local Representatives

      Rawalakot (Tahir Rehman) – Elected local representatives from Poonch Division staged a protest rally in Rawalakot against the government’s failure to grant them authority. The rally culminated in a protest gathering at Sabir Shaheed Stadium, where participants chanted slogans against the government and in support of their demands.

      The protesters carried placards inscribed with slogans demanding empowerment of local bodies. Addressing the gathering, speakers expressed their frustration, stating that the government is not serious about empowering local institutions, while local representatives across the region are protesting with no response from the authorities.

      They announced that on February 15, they will participate in a convention in Muzaffarabad, where they will outline their next course of action.

      Dispute Over Funds and Authority

      The representatives claimed that the Rs. 3.7 billion fund belongs to local bodies, and it is the job of assembly members to legislate, not to spend development funds.

      They further stated that the government initially asked them to draft an amendment act, which they did after reviewing local governance models from other provinces. However, the government is now attempting to pass its own version of the act in the assembly, which exposes its lack of genuine intent.

      Sardar Javed Sharif (Chairman District Council & Focal Person for AJK Local Representatives), along with other elected representatives from Poonch Division, spoke at the protest. They emphasized that the government had held prolonged negotiations with them and assured them that their drafted amendment bill would be presented in the assembly. Instead, the government is now seeking to pass a bill that suits its own agenda rather than delegating real authority to local representatives.

      Upcoming Decision – Final Phase of the Movement

      The speakers announced that a major convention will be held in Muzaffarabad on February 15, where critical decisions will be made regarding their movement.

      “This time, we are launching a decisive movement. All local representatives are ready to fight for their rights, and we will not back down until our demands are met.”

      They urged the government to take the matter seriously and resolve the issues of local representatives, ensuring true devolution of power to the grassroots level. Until their demands are accepted, the movement will continue.

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