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Mysterious Nighttime Intrusion Shakes Peace in Leepa Valley

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Published on August 28, 2023 Leepa Valley, Pakistan administered Kashmir: In an unsettling turn of events, a quiet night in Leepa Valley was disrupted as a group of unidentified individuals forcibly entered in a home, leaving residents in shock and fear.

The incident occurred around 1 to 2 o’clock in the Ghasla a village town of Leepa Valley. Adding to the intrigue, this incident coincided with the return of a resident, who had just arrived from Gilgit Baltistan, where he is employed with a Chinese company.

Residents recounted that the group of unknown intruders made a brash entrance, forcefully opening doors and barging into homes where occupants were fast asleep.

Approximately 10 to 12 individuals infiltrated the homes, subjecting them to searches and questioning. The motive behind this intrusion remains unclear, as there is no concrete evidence indicating how these intruders were tipped off or why they targeted this house.

The consequence were distressing for the affected family. Not only did the intruders take one resident with them, but they also confiscated the phones of family members, leaving them in a state of confusion and anxiety.

As the night unfolded, the whereabouts of the detained individual remained unknown. It was only when morning broke that the family discovered that their loved one was at the Leepa Police Station. Authorities had taken him there and subsequently released him.

This incident has shaken the peaceful Leepa Valley community, with locals expressing their concerns and frustration.

In response to the unsettling event, one family member took to social media to share their ordeal, shedding light on the audacious actions of these unidentified individuals. Many residents are now living in fear, as the perpetrators seem to operate with impunity within the valley.

The motivation and identity of the individuals involved in this incident remain a mystery, leaving residents to grapple with an unsettling sense of insecurity in what was once a tranquil part of the world.

Local authorities are actively investigating the matter in the hopes of providing answers and restoring a sense of peace and security to the Leepa Valley community.

Gilgit-Baltistan’s Connectivity Conundrum: A Dire Decision on Mobile Phones

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In the picturesque region of Gilgit-Baltistan, nestled amidst the towering peaks of the Himalayas, a new challenge has emerged a challenge that could have far-reaching consequences for the region’s youth, students, and the broader population.

The recent decision by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to extend the Device Identification Registration and Blocking System (DIRBS) to Gilgit-Baltistan has sent shockwaves through the region, leaving many bewildered and concerned. Gilgit-Baltistan, with its unique constitutional status, stands apart from the rest of Pakistan.

It’s a region of stunning natural beauty, but one that also grapples with numerous challenges, including limited arable land, a sparse population, and vulnerability to natural disasters. Historically, it has relied heavily on federal grants for development, given its peculiar constitutional status, which means it doesn’t enjoy the same budgetary framework as other regions in Pakistan.

The recent decision to extend DIRBS to Gilgit-Baltistan, which essentially restricts the use of non-custom mobile phones in the region, is a decision that demands scrutiny. Gilgit-Baltistan’s residents have always faced unique challenges when it comes to communication and access, making this move particularly impactful.

The telecommunications and information technology sectors have seen significant growth in Gilgit-Baltistan in recent times. The youth and students have embraced information technology platforms, and this decision to limit access to non-custom mobile phones could stifle their progress. Smartphones have become tools not just for communication but for accessing online education, freelance work, and online businesses. This decision could potentially hamper these opportunities for the region’s youth. Moreover, it’s important to consider that Gilgit-Baltistan is already excluded from federal forums like the National Finance Commission, Joint Finance Council, National Education Consortium, and Universal Service Fund. This exclusion means that the region doesn’t benefit from extensive funding available to other regions for various special projects.

In the field of telecommunications, Gilgit Baltistan has witnessed the presence of the Special Communication Organization (SCO), a government entity that provides tax-free cellular and internet services to the people of Gilgit-Baltistan. While SCO’s network faces challenges, it continues to serve the region. On the other hand, other prominent telecom operators that obtained licenses to expand their operations in Gilgit-Baltistan have shown limited interest in extending their services beyond urban areas, despite including Gilgit-Baltistan in their 4G spectrum auction.

Considering these factors, the recent decision to extend the DIRBS system to Gilgit-Baltistan raises significant concerns. The limited number of registered phones in the region is unlikely to contribute significantly to the federal treasury, yet it may profoundly impact the region’s residents and youth. It’s crucial to note that in the past, any attempt by the federal government to impose direct taxation in Gilgit-Baltistan has met with strong public resistance.

The region’s unique circumstances, including its challenging geography and limited connectivity, have historically prompted preferential policies and measures from the federal government. In light of this, the decision to extend the DIRBS system to Gilgit-Baltistan should have been approached more prudently. Delaying this decision could have allowed for a more informed and collaborative approach, taking into account the concerns and needs of the region’s residents.

As an independent news source, Azadi Times urges careful consideration of the implications of this decision. The people of Gilgit-Baltistan deserve a fair and equitable approach that recognizes their unique circumstances and challenges. It’s essential that decisions made at the federal level are sensitive to the realities of this remarkable region and its people.

Panjkot: Local Council Chairman and Others Face Legal Action for Assaulting Youth Accused of Harassment

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Panjkot, Muzaffarabad, (Azadi Times) – In a disturbing incident that unfolded in the Panjkot area of Muzaffarabad, a video capturing the violent assault and humiliation of a young man has led to legal repercussions. The video showed the victim being subjected to physical violence and spitting during a gathering.

In response, local authorities, acting on the directives of SSP Muzaffarabad, have initiated legal proceedings against a dozen individuals, including the chairman of the Union Council and the father of the affected youth.

The alleged reason behind the assault is the young man’s supposed sexual harassment of a married woman. The group involved in the attack comprises both men and women, including the woman’s husband, her brother-in-law, and the young man’s father. According to the local police, three individuals have already been taken into custody in connection with the incident, while an active search is underway to locate the remaining accused.

https://azaditimes.com/news/azad-jammu-and-kashmir-government-imposes-ban-on-violence-in-educational-institutions/

The incident has raised concerns within the community, drawing attention to the delicate issue of addressing alleged harassment and resorting to violence as a form of justice. Local authorities are urging calm and a fair legal process to determine the facts surrounding the case

This incident underscores the importance of a comprehensive approach to addressing allegations of harassment and violence within communities, emphasizing the role of law enforcement and the justice system in dealing with such matters. As the legal proceedings unfold, the community will be closely watching the developments in this case, hoping for a just and fair resolution.

Former American President Donald Trump Arrested In US

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Former US president Donald Trump was arrested at a Georgia jail on Thursday on racketeering and conspiracy charges for trying to overturn the 2020 election results in the southern state.

The ex-president was arrested on racketeering and conspiracy charges and released on a $200,000 bond. Trump headed back home to New Jersey once he was released.

Trump’s surrender in Georgia marks the fourth time this year the former president has turned himself in to local or federal officials after criminal charges were brought against him.

He was fingerprinted and a booking photo, commonly known as a mugshot, was taken of the former president and later released to the public. Trump is facing charges in four separate criminal cases, but this is the first time he had a mugshot taken.

Trump is facing 13 separate counts in Georgia, including a racketeering charge and several fraud and false statement counts. The deadline for Trump and his 18 co-defendants in the case to turn themselves in is Friday.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Azadi Times staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Exclusive: ‘Home to Homeless’ – Admin Announces Lease Only for Domiciles in Jammu and Kashmir

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Administration on Thursday unveiled guidelines for allotment/ lease of land to landless beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Gramin).

The Revenue Department, as per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), today said that five Marlas of state land will be allotted on lease basis to landless PMAY (G)/Awas plus beneficiaries out of Rural Development Department’s permanent waiting list 2018-19.

Those eligible for allotment are people residing on state land; people residing on forest land; people residing in Rakhs and Farms; people in possession of custodian land; people residing on land already allotted by the Government near Dachigam Park for agricultural purposes, where construction is not permitted and any other category of cases who are otherwise eligible for Housing under PMAY-G, but don’t have any land available for construction.

According to the guidelines, the deputy commissioner concerned shall allot 05 Marlas of state land to those who are domiciles of J&K.

“A person shall be considered landless if he is a domicile of J&K having a separate family and doesn’t have land in his own name or in the name of any of his family members or is not entitled to inherit five Marlas or more land,” reads the order.

It further states that the deputy commissioner concerned shall lease out five Marlas of state land to the landless PMAY (G) beneficiaries who are figuring in the permanent waiting list 2018-19, surveyed by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, and are otherwise eligible for housing assistance under PMAY(G)/Awas plus.

As per scheme guidelines, the land shall be granted on lease basis in terms of the Jammu and Kashmir Land Grants Act of 1960 and the Rules made thereunder.

“The land shall be granted on lease on payment of a token amount of Rs 100/- per Marla as a one-time premium and a nominal amount of Rs 01/- per Marla per annum as ground rent, in relaxation of Jammu Kashmir Land Grant Rules, 2022,” reads the order.

The lease shall be for a period of 40 years, extendable further for a period of another 40 years, subject to the fulfillment of all codal formalities/norms.

“However, if a person fails to build house on allotted land within a period of two years, such lease shall be cancelled forthwith,” reads the order.

As per scheme guidelines, the Assistant Commissioner (Development) of the Rural Development Department of the district concerned shall verify the case(s) and place an indent before the deputy commissioner along with the complete particulars of the beneficiaries, including AADHAAR.

“Deputy Commissioner shall forward the case(s) to Tehsildar concerned for inquiry, who shall identify the state land and verify the particulars of the beneficiaries, including their status of being landless,” the order states.

The grant of land on lease shall not be construed as permission for construction, and the lessee shall seek permission from the competent authority for the construction of the house.

“The lessee shall use the land only for the purpose for which it is granted and shall start construction of the house within three months (03) from the date of the lease, failing which land shall stand resumed to the government without any compensation,” it reads.

The government said that the lessee shall not sub-let/sublease/alienate/transfer the leased land, and any contravention shall terminate the lease, and the land shall stand resumed to the government without any compensation—(KNO)

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Azadi Times staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

The World of Mole Crickets: From “Mother of Water” to Underground Dwellers

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Azadi Times: Mole crickets, the enigmatic insects known by various names across different regions, are intriguing creatures that inhabit our planet. We will delve into the fascinating world of mole crickets, exploring their characteristics, behaviors, and their significance in various cultures. From the Kashmiri name “دہ اوبو ” which translates to “Mother of Water” due to their exceptional swimming abilities to their rather challenging-to-pronounce.

Identification and Physical Traits

One of the most distinctive features of mole crickets is their specially adapted front legs, which resemble miniature shovels, allowing them to dig efficiently. These claw-like structures are crucial for their underground burrowing activities. Their body size varies but generally ranges from 1.5 to 2 inches. The head and thorax are notably robust and hardened compared to the abdomen. Interestingly, some species possess wings, albeit too small for effective flight, while others have longer wings that enable them to take to the skies with ease. Their bodies are covered in fine hairs, giving them a unique appearance.

Global Distribution

Mole crickets are true globetrotters, inhabiting nearly every corner of the world, with one notable exception – Antarctica. They are also quite common in Pakistan, making their presence known in various regions.

Dietary Habits

Mole crickets wear the dual hats of both agricultural pests and insect predators. While some species wreak havoc on crops, others are carnivorous, preying on fellow insects. Additionally, they have a penchant for munching on plant roots, making them a threat to vegetation.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of a mole cricket comprises three key stages: the egg, nymph, and adult. Notably, they do not undergo a pupal stage. During the breeding season, male mole crickets produce calls, primarily for two reasons. Firstly, these calls attract females to suitable egg-laying sites, ensuring the survival of their offspring. Secondly, the calls serve as territorial announcements to other males.

Underground Dwellers

Mole crickets lead predominantly subterranean lives. They construct intricate burrows that allow them to move freely while providing refuge from potential predators. These burrows are essential for their survival.

Impact on Plants

The relationship between mole crickets and plants is often a destructive one, especially for newly planted crops or plants with shallow roots. Their burrowing activities can result in young plants being uprooted, leading to their demise.

Natural Predators

In the intricate web of nature, mole crickets have their own predators. These include certain bird species, wolf spiders, and assassin bugs. Some species of parasitic wasps lay their eggs inside mole cricket nymphs, eventually leading to their demise.

Human Interaction

In terms of interaction with humans, mole crickets are generally harmless. They do not possess venomous bites and pose no direct threat to humans. All those stories of mole cricket harm are, in reality, myths.

Cultural Significance

Interestingly, mole crickets hold cultural significance in various regions. In ancient Japanese culture, they were believed to serve as reminders of human wrongdoing, acting as guardians to prevent individuals from entering heaven. Similarly, in Zambia, spotting a mole cricket is considered a stroke of good luck.

Conclusion

Mole crickets, with their diverse species and intriguing behaviors, add a unique dimension to the world of insects. From their underwater prowess to their underground dwellings, these creatures continue to captivate both scientists and curious individuals alike. So, the next time you encounter a mole cricket, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for this remarkable insect and its role in our ecosystem. Share this post with fellow insect enthusiasts and keep exploring the wonders of the insect world!

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Delhi Church Attack: Bible desecrated by Hindutva men in Delhi

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A church was attacked and the bible was desecrated in New Delhi during Sunday prayers.

Over 100 individuals affiliated with Bajrang Dal, RSS, and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) gathered outside the GTB Enclave police station in Delhi on Sunday, August 20.

The demonstration followed an incident involving members of the Christian community attempting to file a First Information Report (FIR) against these groups, Muslim Mirror reported.

The Christian community alleges that Bajrang Dal members attacked them while they were engaged in prayers, an event that has left a deep rift in the local community.

Eyewitness accounts reveal that on the morning of August 20, around 10:30-11:00 am, members of the Christian community were holding prayers within a church located in the Tahirpur area.

Suddenly, a group of individuals entered the premises armed with sticks and swords. Using a loudspeaker, they proclaimed slogans like ‘Hindu Rashtra will be created, Jai Shri Ram’, creating an atmosphere of tension and fear.

According to Shivam, an eyewitness to the incident, the intruders entered the church without permission and ordered the prayer gathering to cease, asserting that the nation was no longer secular and that the legal landscape had undergone a transformation. The intrusion escalated into violence as the intruders reportedly attacked the worshipers with sticks, resulting in multiple injuries. Shivam’s sister and several women were among those wounded in the altercation.

Video footage obtained by The Wire, a news outlet, displayed extensive vandalism within the church premises, including a torn Bible and a damaged stained glass depiction of Christ. The incident left members of the Christian community traumatized and fearful for their safety.

Outside the GTB Enclave police station, tensions escalated as the groups supporting the attackers chanted slogans, including ‘Jai Shri Ram’, which is commonly associated with Hindu religious sentiment. Anmol, an RSS worker, expressed bewilderment over the Christian community’s choice of location for prayer, given the area’s Hindu-majority demographic.

Pastor Satpal Bhatti, who leads the church where the incident occurred, spoke to The Wire about the distressing incident. He lamented the lack of safety for citizens in their own country and emphasized that the Christian community had been engaging in prayers at the location for 13 years without any prior issues.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Azadi Times staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

Sardar Amjad Abbasi A Kashmiri Labourer Becomes UK’s Youngest Mayor

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Muzaffarabad: (Azadi Times), Sardar Amjad Abbasi, a poor laborer from Azad Kashmir, has become the youngest mayor in the history of the UK’s largest town of Harvest. He was elected mayor at the age of 46, after living in the UK for 16 years.

Abbasi’s story is one of determination and hard work. He came to the UK with a loan and worked as a laborer to make ends meet. He eventually saved enough money to start his own business, and he has since become a successful entrepreneur.

Abbasi is a role model for young people in Azad Kashmir. He shows that it is possible to achieve success, no matter where you come from. He is also a source of pride for the entire region.

In an interview, Abbasi said that he was “humbled and honored” to be elected mayor. He said that he would work hard to represent the people of Harvest and to make the town a better place to live.

Abbasi’s election is a significant moment for Azad Kashmir. It shows that the Kashmiris are talented people who are making their mark on the world. It is also a source of inspiration for young people in Azad Kashmir, who can now see that anything is possible if they work hard and never give up on their dreams.

Escalating Tensions in Nakyal Sector as Ceasefire Violated, Resulting in Civilian Tragedy

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Nakyal Sector, Azad Jammu and Kashmir: The serene landscapes of Kashmir are once again marred by the echoes of violence and conflict, as Indian forces have, yet again, breached the ceasefire agreement along the Line of Control (LoC), leading to devastating civilian casualties and a pervasive sense of fear in the Nakyal sector of Pakistani controlled Jammu Kashmir.

On August 21, the Indian armed forces unleashed unprovoked firing in the tranquil region of Nakyal Sector, blatantly violating the established ceasefire agreement. This act of aggression tragically claimed the life of an elderly civilian, along with three women who were simply toiling in the fields to sustain their families.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) of the Pakistan Army promptly issued a statement condemning this unwarranted aggression. The ISPR affirmed, “The brazen hostility displayed by the Indian army is a blatant violation of the ceasefire agreement.

Pakistan is unwavering in its commitment to fostering peace and stability along its borders and will employ all necessary means to safeguard the lives and property of its people.”

Furthermore, the ISPR underlined that Pakistan would respond resolutely to any aggression against its citizens, with the choice of the timing and location of this response resting solely with Pakistan.

This tragic episode is reminiscent of the recurrent pattern of aggression demonstrated by Indian forces along the LoC. Merely last year, on June 24, Indian forces engaged in unprovoked firing in the Poonch sector, resulting in the grievous loss of two civilians’ lives and severe injuries to another.

At that time, the ISPR had vehemently condemned the act of aggression and underscored the critical importance of maintaining peace along the LoC.

It is imperative to recognize that such acts of aggression not only constitute a violation of the 2003 ceasefire agreement but also flagrantly disregard international human rights and humanitarian laws, as reconfirmed as recently as February 2021. Pakistan has consistently implored India to respect the ceasefire agreement, conduct comprehensive investigations into such unfortunate incidents, and actively strive to maintain peace and stability along the Line of Control.

The latest distressing incident in the Nakyal sector underscores the urgent necessity for both India and Pakistan to engage in earnest diplomatic dialogue. This is not only to address their longstanding disputes but, more crucially, to prevent further tragic loss of innocent lives among the Kashmiri populace. The international community bears the moral responsibility of advocating for restraint on both sides and facilitating a return to the path of peaceful coexistence.

As we continue to closely monitor the evolving situation, this pro-freedom Kashmir newspaper stands firmly committed to providing impartial updates on this distressing issue. Our hearts go out to the grieving families of the victims affected by this heart-wrenching incident. We ardently hope for a speedy resolution to the present tensions, with the ultimate goal of granting Kashmiris the autonomy to shape their own destiny, free from external occupations.

“CJI Dismisses PIL Seeking Validity of Article 370 Abrogation Set-Up”

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In a significant ruling, The Supreme Court on Monday dismissed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking declaration affirming the validity of the Centre’s decision to abrogate the special status of Jammu Kashmir under Article 370(1) and the deletion of Article 35A of the Indian Constitution.

Chief Justice of India DY Chandrachud, who presided over the bench alongside Justice JB Pardiwala and Justice Manoj Mishra, expressed his initial skepticism about the petition’s nature, Live Law reported.

Chief Justice Chandrachud, as per Live Law questioned the petitioner’s intent during the hearing, stating, “What kind of a petition is this? Who has set your client up?”

He further clarified the court’s position, saying, “A declaration cannot be issued by this court regarding the constitutional validity of the action taken by the central government. The question of constitutional validity is pending before this court. This plea is misconceived.”

Subsequently, the plea was dismissed.

The PIL had sought an official declaration from the Supreme Court affirming the constitutional validity of the government’s decision to abrogate Article 370(1) and revoke Article 35A, which granted special autonomy to the former state of Jammu and Kashmir.

It’s important to note that a constitution bench is currently hearing a series of pleas challenging the abrogation of Article 370(1), which occurred on August 5, 2019. Simultaneously, the challenge to the deletion of Article 35A, which granted special privileges to the residents of Jammu and Kashmir in matters related to property and employment, is also under consideration by the court.

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by Azadi Times staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)