Subscribe
Home Blog Page 196

President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Pledges Reform in Mirpur Development Authority

By
Editorial Staff
-
0
The exterior of the Mirpur Development Authority (MDA) office building, a modern structure with clean lines and multiple floors.
The exterior of the Mirpur Development Agency (MDA) office building, a modern structure with clean lines and multiple floors.

Mirpur (Azadi Times) – The President of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry, has vowed to restore public confidence in the Mirpur Development Authority (MDA), an institution originally established for the resettlement of Mangala Dam victims. Over the years, the MDA has faced significant criticism and public distrust due to allegations of mismanagement and corruption.

In response to these issues, a new committee has been formed under the leadership of Mirpur Institutional Development Minister Chaudhry Arshad Hussain. This committee will investigate the allocation of 362 plots within the Mirpur Development Authority (MDA). The committee comprises four members of the assembly—Chaudhry Yasir Sultan, Chaudhry Azhar Sadiq, Chaudhry Qasim Majeed—along with the DGMDA, Secretary PPH, and Commissioner, with overall supervision by the Chief Secretary of Azad Kashmir.

During a meeting to discuss the future of the MDA, President Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry emphasized the need for accountability and transparency. He called for a thorough investigation into past irregularities and corruption within the authority agency, with cases being referred to the appropriate accountability and anti-corruption authorities.

“The MDA has been plagued by issues for too long. We will implement a strategy to correct these defects and restore the authority’s credibility,” stated President Sultan Mahmood. He stressed that there will be no compromise on corruption and no leniency towards those involved in past misdeeds.

Reflecting on his personal connection to the Mangala Dam project, President Sultan Mahmood noted that he, his father, and his son—all elected members of the assembly—had never benefited from the Mirpur Development Authority (MDA), underscoring their commitment to integrity and public service.

The meeting was attended by key officials, including Chief Secretary Azad Kashmir Muhammad Usman Chachar, Minister of Energy and Water Resources Chaudhry Arshad Hussain, Minister of Physical Planning and Housing Chaudhry Yasir Sultan, Minister of Public Works and Communications Chaudhry Azhar Sadiq, and Assembly Member Chaudhry Qasim Majeed. These officials provided a detailed briefing on the current state and future plans for the MDA.

President Sultan Mahmood instructed the officers to work diligently to restore public trust in the MDA. “The public has high expectations from us. We must eliminate corruption and irregularities to ensure the protection of the rights of allottees. The authority must no longer be seen as secondary; it is time to rectify its reputation,” he asserted.

The President concluded by emphasizing the importance of law and order in all institutional developments, ensuring that the MDA operates transparently and effectively moving forward.

Speaker Criticizes Inequitable Electricity Billing Practices in Muzaffarabad

By
Editorial Staff
-
0

Muzaffarabad (Azadi Times) – Chaudhry Anwarul Haq, the Speaker of the Legislative Assembly and Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, expressed strong dissatisfaction with the Department of Electronics (North) during a committee meeting held under his chairmanship at Block No. 04 Civil.

Haq criticized the department’s failure to collect electricity bills from elite consumers, highlighting the disparity in billing practices. He emphasized that if the department cannot ensure bill payments from affluent individuals, it has no grounds to demand payments from impoverished citizens.

During the meeting, concerns were raised regarding the indiscriminate use of air conditioners in the civil secretariat, coupled with unequal billing procedures. Haq questioned the fairness of burdening the poor with electricity expenses while exempting others from their obligations.

Furthermore, Haq addressed the issue of corruption within the department, urging officers to resist unethical directives from superiors. He emphasized the importance of upholding integrity and standing against corrupt practices.

The Public Accounts Committee commended the Legislative Assembly Secretariat for its diligent approach to electricity bill payments. However, it expressed disappointment with the Department of Electronics (North) for its lax recovery process, attributing the inefficiency to a lack of enforcement of writ.

The committee directed a third-party valuation to assess losses incurred by the government due to discrepancies between electricity purchases and reported sales. Additionally, it instructed the department to improve its recovery efforts and review 10% of its records.

Present at the meeting were Deputy Speaker Chaudhry Riaz Ahmed, MLA Mian Abdul Waheed, MLA Colonel (retd) Waqar Ahmad Noor, along with several departmental officials including Muhammad Tayyab, Secretary of Energy and Water Resources, Zafraqbal, Chief Engineer of Electronics, and Saeeduddin Gilani, Chief Engineer of Electricity Grid.

The committee, headed by Secretary of the Legislative Assembly Chaudhry Basharat Hussain, will examine the clerk of the Electronics (South) department in its upcoming session on Wednesday.

Amjad Chaudhry Set to Become President of All Kashmir Newspapers Society Unopposed

By
Editorial Staff
-
0

Muzaffarabad (Azadi Times News) – Amjad Chaudhry, the editor-in-chief of the daily Saday Chinar, is poised to assume the presidency of the All Kashmir Newspapers Society (AKNS) unopposed, following the withdrawal of rival candidate Zaheer Jagwal. This announcement was made by the Chief Election Commissioner of AKNS.

Initially, papers were submitted for the presidency of AKNS by two candidates Amjad Chaudhry, Chief Editor of Daily Chinar, and Zaheer Jagwal, Chief Editor of Khabarnama. However, with Jagwal’s withdrawal, Chaudhry has been declared the unopposed president, with his success officially confirmed.

The upcoming election on January 14 will now focus on the positions of secretary-general and vice president. Shafqat Zia, Tanveer Tanoli, and Naseer Anwar Chaudhry are set to contest for these seats.

This development underscores Chaudhry’s prominent position within the journalistic community and his widespread support among AKNS members.

Azad Jammu Kashmir Leadership Unites to Allocate AJK Assembly Seats for Enhanced Kashmiri Representation and Rights

By
Editorial Staff
-
0
Azad Jammu Kashmir Assebmly: File Photo
Azad Jammu Kashmir Assebmly: File Photo

Prime Minister Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan of Azad Jammu Kashmir held a crucial meeting with President Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry at the President’s House, where they discussed vital issues concerning the representation of the people of Indian-administered Kashmir.

During the meeting, both leaders emphasized the importance of representing the state of Jammu and Kashmir effectively in the legislative assembly. They agreed to continue the ongoing movement in Occupied Kashmir to highlight Indian atrocities and violations of human rights on national and international platforms.

A significant decision was made to allocate specific seats in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly for Kashmiris living across the Line of Control (LoC). Additionally, effective representation for non-Muslims of Occupied Kashmir in the Legislative Assembly was also prioritized.

Furthermore, discussions were held regarding the allocation of honorary seats for Muslim leaders who played crucial roles during the Pakistan Movement. Both leaders affirmed that the hearts of non-Muslim Kashmiris living across the LoC beat for Pakistan, underscoring the strong emotional bond between them and Pakistan.

Prime Minister Khan and President Chaudhry expressed deep concern over the mistreatment of Dalits in India, emphasizing Pakistan’s commitment to providing equal opportunities and protection to people of all religions, as envisioned by Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

The leaders stressed the importance of giving full representation to political leaders of Occupied Jammu and Kashmir and the non-Muslim community in the Legislative Assembly, ensuring their privileges and rights are safeguarded through legislative measures.

They reiterated the principle that Kashmiris on both sides of the LoC have the right to live according to their own religions and affirmed their dedication to strengthening the joint Pakistan Movement. The leaders pledged to continue their active role in this struggle until their goals are achieved.

This meeting reflects a united commitment to advocating for the rights and representation of Kashmiris, both Muslim and non-Muslim, in the legislative framework of Azad Jammu Kashmir.

AJK PM Announces Tax Reforms and Increased Taxpayer Base in Azad Kashmir

By
Editorial Staff
-
0

Muzaffarabad (Azadi Times) – Prime Minister Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan of the Independent Government of Jammu and Kashmir has expressed confidence in the government’s initiatives, stating that they have garnered full support and trust from the people. Khan announced plans to increase the tax net to one lakh users through the introduction of a public-friendly tax system.

Addressing the importance of reforms initiated by the PTI government, Khan highlighted the widespread appreciation received from the people across various sectors. He emphasized the collective responsibility of all stakeholders in promoting the welfare and development of Azad Kashmir.

Discussing efforts to expand the tax net and streamline the tax system, Khan noted that the current government has significantly increased the number of tax filers from 5 thousand to 37 thousand. He reiterated the government’s commitment to bringing reforms in the tax system, instructing officers and officials of the Inland Revenue Department to exhibit exemplary behavior towards the public.

Khan acknowledged the existence of misunderstandings among the public regarding taxes, affirming the government’s efforts to simplify the tax system and make it more people-friendly. In a bid to facilitate taxpayers, he announced an extension of the deadline for tax return submissions until February 27.

Highlighting the significance of tax compliance, Khan underscored the importance of adhering to tax laws and regulations. He praised the efforts of Finance and Inland Revenue Minister Abdul Majid Khan and his team in this regard, commending their commendable work.

Khan revealed plans to increase the number of tax filers to one lakh and allocate a special budget for public awareness campaigns on taxation. Additionally, he emphasized the need for innovation in the transport system to address the issue of accidents caused by dilapidated vehicles.

The Prime Minister directed the Income Tax Department to conduct an extensive awareness campaign, aiming to dispel misconceptions surrounding taxes in Azad Kashmir. He also announced a reward of 2 crores for officers demonstrating the highest level of performance in tax collection.

This announcement reflects the government’s commitment to fostering economic growth, promoting tax compliance, and ensuring transparency in governance in Azad Kashmir.

Azad Jammu and Kashmir Election Commission Urges Kashmir Council and Legislative Assembly Members to Declare Assets

By
Editorial Staff
-
0
File Photo: Azad Jammu and Kashmir Election Commission
File Photo: Azad Jammu and Kashmir Election Commission

Muzaffarabad (Azadi Tiimes) – The spokesperson for the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Election Commission has issued a press release emphasizing the mandatory requirement for all Kashmir Council members to declare their assets, along with those of their dependent wives and children, before June 30 each year. The details of these assets must be submitted to the Election Commission by December 31 of the same year.

However, as of the current financial year 2021-22, certain members of the Kashmir Council have failed to comply with this requirement. Notable members who have not yet submitted their asset details include Shuja Khurshid Rathore, Muhammad Hanif, and Sardar Syab Khalid.

Similarly, under Section 78 Sub-section (4) of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Elections Act 2020, every member of the Legislative Assembly is obligated to submit details of their assets, along with those of their dependent wives and children, before June 30 each year. These details must also be compiled on stamp paper and submitted to the Election Commission by December 31 of the same year.

Regrettably, several honorable members of the Legislative Assembly have yet to fulfill this obligation for the financial year 2021-22. The list of members who have not submitted their asset details includes:

Here are the constituencies listed in columns and rows:

Mirpur Constituency Bhimbar Constituency Poonch and Sidhnuti Constituency Neelam Constituency Muzaffarabad Constituency Jammu Constituency Valley Constituency
Azhar Sadiq Waqar Ahmad Noor Sardar Mir Akbar Khan Shah Ghulam Qadir Sardar Muhammad Javed Hafiz Hamid Raza Aamir Abdul Ghaffar Loan
Chaudhry Qasim Majeed Anwar Haq Sardar Abdul Qayyum Khan Niazi Mian Abdul Waheed Syed Bazal Ali Naqvi Mohammad Akmal Sargala Ghulam Mohiuddin Dewan
Zafraqbal Malik Sardar Hasan Ibrahim Khan Khawaja Farooq Ahmed Raja Muhammad Siddique Muhammad Asim Sharif
Chaudhry Mohammad Akhlaq Ms. Shahida Sagheer Raja Farooq Haider Khan Abdul Majid Khan
Nisar Ansar Abdali Sardar Muhammad Hussain Khan
Sardar Atiq Ahmad Khan
Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan

Additionally, members of the Legislative Assembly who hold reserved seats are also required to declare their assets. Failure to comply with this requirement by January 15, 2023, may result in the suspension of membership until the submission of asset details, as per Section 78 Sub-section (6) of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir Elections Act 2020.

State Disaster Management Authority Issues Winter Travel Guidelines for Tourists in Azad Kashmir

By
Editorial Staff
-
0
State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) office showcasing fire fighting vehicles
State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) office showcasing fire fighting vehicles

Muzaffarabad (Azadi Times) – The State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) of Azad Kashmir has released comprehensive guidelines for tourists and travelers during the winter season. These guidelines aim to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals embarking on journeys to various destinations in Azad Kashmir.

According to the issued guidelines, travelers are advised to stay updated with the latest weather forecasts provided by the Meteorological Department before commencing their journey. They are encouraged to check the NDMA/SDMA’s web portal and social media platforms, including Twitter and Instagram, for special warnings and alerts. Additionally, consulting the concerned District Administration and Tourist Police for road conditions and advisories is recommended.

Travelers are urged to carry essential travel necessities, including clean drinking water and dry food, sufficient for at least 24 hours. Sick passengers are advised to bring their daily medications, while those traveling to snowy areas should carry tire chains for use when required. It is emphasized to follow instructions issued by the Highway Department and Traffic Police/Tourist Police for safe travel.

Proper vehicle maintenance is stressed, including vehicle checking and carrying spare tires, radiator fluid, and lubricants as advised by mechanics. Warm clothing is essential for cold weather conditions, and passengers in air-conditioned vehicles are advised to keep windows slightly open for fresh air circulation.

In preparation for accommodation, travelers are advised to book rooms in advance and ensure awareness of the prevailing weather conditions and road conditions in the area of interest. Avoiding unnecessary travel in hilly areas at night is recommended to mitigate risks.

Local administrations and hotel managements are instructed to enhance monitoring mechanisms in disaster-prone areas and identify danger spots with the help of the local community. Awareness campaigns are planned to prevent potential dangers, and machinery is prepared in potential hazardous areas in collaboration with the Roads Department and other departments.

Emergency operation centers are activated at the district level to monitor the situation, while tourist convenience centers are activated at tourist spots to facilitate travelers. Proper planning for snow removal and traffic management in areas with heavy tourist traffic is emphasized.

Local hotels and transport associations are urged to assist tourists and locals in emergency situations, and coordination with traffic police/tourist police is essential for road closure hazards. Travelers are warned in advance about the dangers posed by hazardous locations, and emergency operation centers are kept active to monitor district-level situations.

These guidelines underscore the importance of preparedness and caution for travelers during the winter season in Azad Kashmir, ensuring their safety and security while exploring the beautiful landscapes of the region.

Hattian Bala Hosts Right to Self-Determination Day Event at Government Boys Inter College

By
Saba Anjum
-
0

Hattian Bala: Man Sets Himself on Fire Over Land DisputeHATTIAN BALA (Azadi Times) – On the occasion of Right to Self-Determination Day, a program organized by Kashmir Youth Initiative and Million Smile was held at Government Boys Inter College Hattian Bala.

The event featured several notable guests including former assembly candidate and PTI leader Syed Zeeshan Haider, SP Jhelum Valley Khurram Iqbal, SHO Manzar Chaghatai, former administrator Khawaja Nasiruddin Chak, newly elected councilor Sheikh Mumtaz, and former vice chairman PIO Taimur Baig.

Additional participants included Raja Faizan, Smile MSF & Care member Madiha Farhan, founder of Kashmir Youth Initiative Mazhar Khan, district coordinator of Jhelum Wali Raja Umar Dawood, district president Ruma Irshad, Zain Sadiq, Aliza Khushal, Mubasher Ahmed, Syeda Noor Kazmi, Ursa Bashir, martial arts teacher Bilal Shah, Million Smile Foundation national core member Asad Parvez, Zamir Ahmad Naz, Chaudhry Ahsan, Farhan Awan, Bilal Rajput, Arsa Javed Turk, Momna Awan, Owais Younis, and others.

At the end of the program, chief guests Syed Zeeshan Haider and SP Jhelum Valley Khurram Iqbal congratulated district coordinator of Kashmir Youth Initiative, Jhelum Vali Raja Umar Dawood, and his team for organizing an excellent program, along with commending the performers for their outstanding contributions.

Hattian Bala Police Arrest Six in Welfare Trust Scam

By
Editorial Staff
-
0

Hattian Bala – City Police Station Hattian Bala has arrested six individuals, including a local man associated with Hamza Welfare Trust, for allegedly scamming poor and disabled people. The arrests were made to prevent further exploitation of these vulnerable individuals, and more shocking revelations are expected as the investigation progresses.

According to details, Syed Jawad Haider Kazmi, son of Amir Hussain Shah from Chham Doba village near Chinari, used his Facebook account and WhatsApp groups to promote the Hamza Welfare Trust. He claimed the trust would distribute wheelchairs to the disabled and free rations to the poor, but required a registration fee of 1,000 rupees upfront.

The scheme unraveled when promised wheelchairs and rations were not delivered, prompting the victims to protest on the Srinagar Highway after leaving a private school. SHO City Police Station Hattian Bala, Manzar Hussain Chaghatai, investigated and discovered that Hamza Welfare Trust had brought only four wheelchairs but collected substantial registration fees from numerous individuals.

Without the necessary NOC, the trust had set up a camp in Hattian Bala, charging 1,000 rupees per registration. The following individuals were arrested:
1. Dr. Naseem, son of Muhammad Aziz, resident of Westridge Rawalpindi
2. Shahid Mahmood, son of Shabir Ahmed, resident of Chakra District and Tehsil Rawalpindi
3. Fayyaz Ahmad, son of Muhammad Khan, resident of Chakra Rawalpindi
4. Syed Niaz Ali Shah, son of Shah Ali, resident of Khairabad
5. Syed Farzan Shah, son of Syed Duran Shah, resident of Khairabad Mansehra
6. Syed Jawad Haider Kazmi, son of Amir Hussain Shah, resident of Chham Doba, Jhelum Valley district

Charges filed against them under sections 419/420, 467/468, and 471 of the APC, and an investigation is underway. SHO Manzar Hussain Chaghatai and his team commended for their swift action.

The police urged that the funds stolen from the victims be recovered and returned to the rightful owners. They also warned the public to be cautious and avoid falling prey to similar scams. The police emphasized the importance of vigilance and awareness to protect hard-earned money from such fraudulent schemes.

AJK primer announcesd the establishment of Model Police Station at Mirpur City Police Station and Women Police Station at Mirpur

By
Editorial Staff
-
0

 

Mirpur (Azadi Times) 05 January 2023

Prime Minister Azad Jammu and Kashmir Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan announced the establishment of Model Police Station in Mirpur City Police Station and Women Police Station in Mirpur. Prime Minister Azad Kashmir’s surprise visit continues, Prime Minister Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan’s surprise visit to DHQ Hospital Mirpur and City Police Station in Mirpur, visited various wards in District Hospital Mirpur, visited patients, visited patients under treatment in ICU He announced Rs 1 lakh cash for treatment and Rs 5 lakh for new born children.

 

The Prime Minister visited the records at the City Police Station Mirpur, interacted with the prisoners and issued an order to release a prisoner arrested in a minor case. R. Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir announced Rs 2 lakh cash for all police station staff and prisoners. SSP Mirpur and SHO Thana City also announced appreciation certificate and encouragement reward for solving crimes in Mirpur city and timely arrest of accused in blind case. Azad Kashmir Prime Minister also met divisional and district officers in Mirpur. Speaking on this occasion, Azad Kashmir Prime Minister Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan has said that the purpose of the surprise visit is not to discredit any institution or officer. And neither is the government’s intention to create fear or panic, but to check the facilities provided by the institutions to the public through such visits. Treat the citizens with respect and dignity.

 

If any complaint is received regarding the respect of the elderly, strict action will be taken against it. Public toilets should be built at places. Atta doctors should be brought under the law. Doctors’ credentials should be checked in private hospitals. No one should be allowed to play with human lives. Officers should perform their duties as servants, not rulers. The officers who do good work, where the name of the state and the government shines, are supported by them One’s dignity in the family remains forever. State employees should work on merit instead of nepotism. In the army, martyrdom is given not for money but for the protection of the country, the same attitude should be in the civil service as well. High posts should not be made only as a source of employment. The bureaucracy of Azad Kashmir is highly capable and has full potential to create a welfare state. People’s trust in the state and government can be restored only when the citizens’ specifications are met.
He expressed these views while addressing a meeting of divisional and district officers on the occasion of a surprise visit to Mirpur. In the meeting, Commissioner Chaudhry Shaukat Ali, DIG Dr. Khalid Mahmood Chauhan, Deputy Commissioner Chaudhry Amjad Iqbal, SSP Raja. Irfan Saleem, Chief Engineer Electronics Tahir Ratial, DHO Dr. Fida Hussain, DMS Iram Batul, Divisional Director Local Government Raja Fayyaz Khan, SE Electronics Chaudhry Ziad Akbar, Exein Shahrat Majid Iqbal Awan, Chief Officer Municipal Mugheeth Riaz, Exein Building Prince Aurangzeb, DEO Muhammad Nisar, Information Officer Muhammad Javed Malik, Assistant Director Fisheries Muhammad Sajid, Social Welfare Officer Malik Muhammad Nisar, Assistant Director Livestock Abdul Qayyum Butt, Veterinarian Dr. Nadeem Kalis and other officers were also present.

 

Azad Kashmir Prime Minister Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan addressed the officers and said that the state’s prime minister, government ministers and the bureaucracy should understand the pain and suffering of the people and perform their duties as servants. The officers are highly educated and experienced. The poor people should be directly benefited. Until the public servants do not perform their duties with the spirit of service, the government cannot wear the vision of its welfare and welfare state in any practical way. He said Azad Kashmir. Reforms are needed in every sector.

 

Government guidelines for cleaning and sanitation of cities should be strictly followed. Encroachment on storm drains should be stopped, there should be modern mechanism of garbage disposal. Sale of plastic shopping bags. A deadline has been given till January 15, after which there will be a complete ban on the sale. Cleaning of drinking water tanks for citizens should be done, thus CCTV cameras should be installed in cities to control crimes. Human lives should be protected. No minute should be spared to make. Agriculture

More plantations should be done with promotion. The officers themselves and the subordinate employees should behave kindly towards the citizens. The behavior of the government missionaries should be exemplary so that people should not be afraid to come to them, if the employees maintain their behavior and morals.

 

If they do, their complaints will also be less. We should get guidance from our religious civilized society, which teaches service to humanity. SP will be appointed to control the traffic accidents. The officers should remain neutral, instead of being the tools of any political party, they should be the servants of the state and the people. He said that every citizen of the state should play his role as a watchdog, if such complaints are found, they should be taken to the relevant forum. In this regard, Jed Ulama is making a board consisting of Ikram, from which fake and submissive gangsters are being identified.

1...195196197...213Page 196 of 213

Subscribe for exclusive content

The Azadi Times is an independent news network based in Jammu and Kashmir, dedicated to delivering accurate, unbiased, and in-depth journalism on politics, society, human rights, and culture from the region and beyond.

Subscribe

© 2025 The Azadi Times. All rights reserved.