New Delhi: March 26, 2023 (Azadi Times) – Indian police have launched an investigation following a threat to replace the Indian flag with the Khalistani flag at the G20 high-level meeting set to take place in Delhi this September. The probe was initiated after the Ministry of Defense received an audio recording from an unknown number two days ago, alerting authorities to the potential disruption.

The threatening audio message claimed that supporters of Sikh preacher Amrit Pal Singh plan to occupy Pragati Maidan, the venue of the G20 summit, and hoist the Khalistani flag in place of the Indian flag. The recording also contained abusive remarks directed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah.

The audio was brought to the attention of authorities by a passenger who received the message while boarding a flight from Delhi airport. Police have registered a First Information Report (FIR) and are actively working to trace the origin of the audio clip and apprehend those responsible.

Sikh preacher Amrit Pal Singh, named in the audio message, has been evading capture since last week. Authorities are intensifying efforts to locate him and prevent any potential security threats to the high-profile G20 summit.

The incident has heightened security concerns, and police are taking all necessary precautions to ensure the safety and security of the event. The G20 summit, which brings together leaders from the world’s major economies, is a critical event for India, and authorities are determined to prevent any disruptions.

Indian Intelligence Agencies Crack Down on Pro-Khalistan Sympathizers in Jammu and Kashmir

Articles

Editorial Staff

March 26, 2023

Indian Intelligence Agencies Crack Down on Pro-Khalistan Sympathizers in Jammu and Kashmir

JAMMU: March 26, 2023 (Azadi Times) – In a significant operation, Indian intelligence agencies have compiled a list of sympathizers of pro-Khalistan preacher Amrit Pal Singh in the Indian-administered region of Jammu and Kashmir. This development follows the arrest of a husband and wife from Kalian village in RS Pora.

The police conducted a raid in the border village of Kalian in RS Pora, resulting in the detention of Amrik Singh and his wife, Sarabjit Kaur. The couple, originally from Premchak village, had been residing in Kalian near RS Pora town. They were apprehended for their alleged connections to Amrit Pal Singh, the pro-Khalistan leader and chief of “Wars Punjab De.”

Authorities confirmed that Amrik Singh and Sarabjit Kaur were handed over to the Punjab Police following their arrest. The crackdown on pro-Khalistan sympathizers in the region is part of a broader effort by Indian security forces to dismantle networks supporting separatist activities.

This operation underscores the heightened security measures and vigilance of Indian intelligence agencies in Jammu and Kashmir, aimed at curbing any potential threats posed by pro-Khalistan elements.

Arrest Warrants Issued for Muzaffarabad Mayor and Former Education Minister Amid Land Fraud Allegations

Articles

Editorial Staff

March 25, 2023

MUZAFFARABAD: (Azadi Times) – Arrest warrants issued for the newly elected mayor of Muzaffarabad, Syed Sikander Gilani, former education minister Syed Iftikhar Gilani, and his brother Syed Mehr Gilani. The judicial magistrate of Muzaffarabad issued the warrants amidst serious allegations of land fraud involving the high-profile figures.

The controversy centers around a disputed 10 Kanal plot of land, which the complainant claims was unlawfully acquired by Syed Mehr Gilani through collusion and forgery. The land, originally belonging to the affected party, was allegedly seized with the influence of Syed Iftikhar Gilani, who is also the information secretary of the Muslim League-N Azad Kashmir.

The complainant appealed to the court, asserting that the land was fraudulently taken over by Syed Mehr Gilani without any legitimate records or documentation in the Ministry of Finance. The judicial magistrate’s decision to issue arrest warrants and seize the land underscores the gravity of the accusations.

This development has stirred significant concern and speculation within the political landscape of Azad Kashmir, raising questions about the integrity and conduct of influential political figures in the region. Authorities are expected to pursue the case vigorously to address the allegations and bring any wrongdoing to light.

Sharp Inflation Hits Azad Kashmir During Ramadan: Flour Shortages and Price Hikes in Rawalakot and Poonch Districts

Articles

Noreen Haider

March 24, 2023

Sharp Inflation Hits Azad Kashmir During Ramadan: Flour Shortages and Price Hikes in Rawalakot and Poonch Districts

RAWALAKOT: (Azadi Times) – With the onset of Ramadan, residents of Azad Kashmir, particularly in Rawalakot and Poonch districts, are experiencing a sharp rise in inflation. The scarcity of flour from local mills and significant price hikes in essential commodities have added to the citizens’ woes, despite government relief announcements.

According to a survey report by “Dharti,” prices of vegetables, fruits, and other food items have surged by 20 to 30% since the beginning of Ramadan. Common fruits such as bananas, apples, and melons have become more expensive, and the prices of vegetables, especially tomatoes, have more than doubled. The scarcity of flour has been attributed to disruptions in wheat supply caused by a contractors’ strike, which, despite ending after government negotiations, has yet to see the restoration of flour supply. It may take up to two more days for normal supply to resume.

The Azad Kashmir government had announced relief measures for flour during Ramadan, but citizens have yet to see any tangible benefits. In May, administrative officers conducted city visits to monitor prices but lacked a market price formula to accurately assess the artificial price hikes.

Local residents and market observers have called on the administration to take all necessary steps to curb hoarding and control the artificial inflation of prices. There is a growing demand for effective measures to ensure that essential commodities remain affordable during the holy month, ensuring that citizens are not unduly burdened during a time meant for reflection and community support.

Public Outcry in Jhelum Valley Over Ineffective Sasta Bazar and Inflation

Articles

Editorial Staff

March 24, 2023

JHELUM VALLEY: (Azadi Times) – The Jhelum Valley administration has come under fire for what locals are calling a “joke” in the name of Sasta Bazar. A fruit and vegetable stall was set up in front of the Municipal Office in Hattian Bala, ostensibly to provide goods at lower prices. However, the rates at the so-called Sasta Bazar were found to be no different from those in the general market, causing widespread disappointment and frustration among the public.

Residents reported that acquiring a 20-kilo bag of flour involved standing in long lines, only to find that the price was ten rupees higher than the official rate. The process was cumbersome, requiring photocopies and enduring lengthy waits, exacerbating the frustration.

By the second day of Ramadan, shopkeepers in major bazaars were selling daily necessities at arbitrary rates, with no intervention from deputy commissioners, assistant commissioners, or police officers. The apparent inaction of these officials has led to a public outcry, with demands for intervention from the Prime Minister, Chief Secretary, and IG of Azad Kashmir.

Due to the lack of effective price regulation, essential goods have become increasingly unaffordable for the poor. The absence of a check-and-balance system in the markets has left many struggling to meet basic needs, with inflation driving some to the brink of starvation.

Residents have expressed their frustration with local representatives, accusing them of only being visible during election times. The failure to enforce fixed market rates and the lack of accessible food supplies from the Food Department have forced many to seek essentials from door to door.

Locals have demanded immediate and concrete measures from the Prime Minister, Chief Secretary, and IG of Azad Kashmir to address and curb the artificial inflation plaguing the Jhelum Valley. They stress that photo-op check-ins by officials are insufficient and call for genuine efforts to make necessities affordable and accessible to all.

The public sentiment is clear: they need an answer to why politicians and officials remain silent spectators in the face of such pressing issues. There is an urgent need for actionable steps to alleviate the burden of inflation and ensure that basic necessities are within reach for the poorest residents of Jhelum Valley.

Man Arrested in Chinari for Obscene Acts with Local Girl: Public Outcry and Demand for Severe Punishment

Editorial Staff

March 24, 2023

Man Arrested in Chinari for Obscene Acts with Local Girl: Public Outcry and Demand for Severe Punishment

CHINARI: (Azadi Times) March 24, 2023 – A man has been arrested after a video of him kissing and performing obscene acts with a local girl in Pahal village near the Line of Control Chakothi went viral on social media. The police station in Chanari acted swiftly, arresting the accused and registering a case.

The accused, Abdul Aziz Salharia, son of Muhammad Sharif Suhsria, was apprehended by Iftikhar Hussain Awan. The incident involved Aziz making obscene gestures and kissing a girl named Masmaa (l) in front of another young girl. The police have charged him under sections 489Z and 294PC, and the SDM Hattian Bala has granted a two-day remand for further investigation.

The video has sparked a wave of grief and outrage among the public, political, social, and religious circles. There is a strong demand for the most severe punishment for the accused to deter such actions in the future.

Prominent figures and community members have expressed their sorrow and anger over the incident, emphasizing that acts like these are detrimental to societal values and must be addressed with strict legal action. They insist that any leniency towards such behavior is equivalent to fostering broader societal decay.

The authorities are urged to arrest all individuals involved and ensure they face the harshest penalties under the law. The incident has highlighted the need for vigilance and stringent measures to uphold moral standards and protect community integrity.

Inauguration of Gilgit-Muzaffarabad Bus Service Restores Historic Ties Between Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan

Articles

Syeda Sehar

March 23, 2023

Inauguration of Gilgit-Muzaffarabad Bus Service Restores Historic Ties Between Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan

MUZAFFARABAD: (Azadi Times) – On the historic occasion of Pakistan Day, the Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Sardar Tanvir Ilyas Khan, and the Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan, Barrister Khalid Khurshid, inaugurated the Gilgit-Muzaffarabad Bus Service. This initiative aims to restore and strengthen the historical connections between the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.

The inauguration ceremony was held at the New Prime Minister House in Muzaffarabad, with Chief Minister Khalid Khurshid as the chief guest. The event was attended by prominent officials including Gilgit-Baltistan Interior Minister Shamsul Haque, various ministers from the Azad Kashmir government, and a large number of government officials, lawyers, and civil society members.

Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Sardar Tanvir Ilyas Khan highlighted the significance of Pakistan Day, recalling the passing of the Pakistan Resolution in 1940. He emphasized the importance of the new bus service in restoring ties between the two regions, enhancing cultural, social, and economic linkages, and boosting industry and tourism.

Chief Minister Khalid Khurshid echoed these sentiments, noting that the bus service will reduce distances and promote harmony between the people of Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Kashmir. He assured that the government would provide all necessary facilities to visitors from Azad Kashmir.

The Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir announced several initiatives to foster collaboration between the regions, including increased quotas for Gilgit-Baltistan students in Azad Kashmir’s educational institutions, mutual investment in transport companies, and the establishment of a special economic zone. He also proposed the introduction of yaks, found only in Gilgit-Baltistan, to the upper areas of Azad Kashmir for farming.

The event also saw an exchange of traditional gifts, with the Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan presenting a Karvaati Jabba and Cap to the Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir. Both leaders expressed hope that this renewed connection would be sustained by future generations, benefiting both regions through shared experiences and resources.

Parliamentary Secretary Transport Azad Kashmir Javed Butt, in his address, praised the efforts of both leaders in launching the bus service. Secretary Transport Authority Chaudhry Mukhtar Ahmad confirmed that all necessary arrangements had been made to ensure the success of the Gilgit-Muzaffarabad bus service, which is expected to strengthen ties and promote mutual cultural understanding between the regions.

Flame of Hope: Challenges and Promises for Poonch Medical College

Editorials

Editorial Staff

March 23, 2023

Flame of Hope: Challenges and Promises for Poonch Medical College

As the vibrant hues of spring permeate the air, bringing with it a new sense of vitality, Poonch Medical College stands as a beacon of hope amidst the changing seasons. The recent “White Coat Ceremony” at the college symbolized a renewal of commitment and dedication to the noble profession of medicine, underscoring the vital role this institution plays in the region’s healthcare landscape.

Established in 2013, Poonch Medical College, affiliated with the Pakistan Medical Commission and the University of Health Sciences Lahore, remains the sole educational institution in the Poonch district dedicated to the field of medicine. Despite its significance, the college still awaits the realization of its building and essential facilities, essential for its growth and functioning.

The 11th White Coat Ceremony, held on the morning of March 14, 2023, was a poignant reminder of the enduring spirit and resilience of this institution. The ceremony, presided over by the Principal of Medical College Dr. Shabir Chaudhry and the President of the Doctors Association Dr. Wajid Ali Khan, marked a milestone in the journey of this esteemed institution.

As the ceremony unfolded, the gravity of the challenges faced by Poonch Medical College was juxtaposed with the unwavering dedication of its faculty and students. Dr. Sardar Shabbir Ahmed, in his address, eloquently captured the essence of the college, describing it as a blessing for the entire district and commending the tireless efforts of those who have dedicated themselves to its cause.

Dr. Wajid Ali Khan’s words echoed a sentiment of pride and responsibility, emphasizing that academic excellence is but the beginning of a lifelong journey of service to humanity. He reiterated the significance of the oath taken by medical professionals, a solemn pledge to alleviate the suffering of humanity.

The establishment of medical colleges in Azad Kashmir, including Poonch, Muzaffarabad, and Mirpur, is a laudable initiative aimed at enhancing healthcare services in the region. However, the delay in the construction and development of these institutions raises questions about the priorities of governance and the commitment to fulfilling the aspirations of the people.

Dr. Wajid Ali Khan’s impassioned plea for the completion of the college building and the adjoining hospital underscores the urgency of addressing the pressing needs of Poonch Medical College. He stressed the importance of providing comprehensive education and training to students, ensuring they are equipped to serve their communities, whether at home or abroad.

The Assistant Director of Students Affairs and Administration, Wasim Azam, paid tribute to the unwavering dedication of the faculty and staff, whose relentless efforts have shaped the trajectory of the college. He underscored the need for job security for employees, emphasizing that it is the duty of the state to provide equal opportunities for all.

Director General Health Dr. Sardar Aftab Ahmed Khan’s assurance of the early implementation of the PC1 project offers a glimmer of hope for the resolution of the college’s longstanding issues. However, it is imperative that these assurances translate into concrete action to propel the institution forward.

In his closing remarks, Principal Dr. Shabir Chaudhry reiterated the sanctity of the medical profession, emphasizing the profound responsibility entrusted to those donning the white coat. He urged the students to embody the spirit of service and compassion, recognizing that true fulfillment lies in serving humanity.

As we reflect on the journey of Poonch Medical College, we are reminded of the indomitable spirit of resilience and determination that defines this institution. The challenges may be daunting, but with concerted efforts and unwavering commitment, Poonch Medical College will continue to be a beacon of hope, illuminating the path towards a healthier and brighter future for all.

Woman Dies of Heart Attack During Earthquake in Hattian Bala

Editorial Staff

March 22, 2023

Woman Dies of Heart Attack During Earthquake in Hattian Bala

Hattian Bala (Azadi Times) – In a tragic incident, a woman lost her life due to a heart attack during an earthquake in Amra Sawan, a suburb of Chinari.

According to details, Ishrat Bibi, a fifty-year-old resident of Amra Sawan and the wife of Muhammad Siddique, experienced a heart attack triggered by panic as soon as the earthquake struck. She was the mother of one child.

The heart attack caused her to fall, and she was urgently taken to Hattian Hospital late at night. Due to the severity of her condition, she was later referred to Muzaffarabad for further treatment. Unfortunately, despite medical efforts, she could not recover.

Meanwhile, the earthquake caused no major loss of life or property in different areas of the Jhelum Valley district of Azad Kashmir. However, reports indicate that several houses suffered minor cracks.

President AJK Chairs the 23rd Senate Meeting of University of Poonch

Editorial Staff

March 21, 2023

President AJK Chairs the 23rd Senate Meeting of University of Poonch

Islamabad (Azadi Times) – President Azad Jammu and Kashmir Chancellor, Barrister Sultan Mahmood Chaudhry, presided over the 23rd Senate meeting of the University of Poonch held at the President’s House Kashmir House Islamabad.

The meeting was attended by several notable figures, including former Vice Chancellor of the University of Kotli, Professor Dr. Ghulam Ghos, Vice Chancellor of the University of Home Economics Lahore, Professor Dr. Kanwal Amin, Secretary of Azad Jammu Kashmir Higher Education Khalid Mahmood Mirza, Professor Dr. Azhra Latif, former Registrar of Supreme Court of Pakistan, Dr. Faqir Hussain, Representative of Higher Education Commission, Muhammad Raza Chauhan, Registrar of University of Poonch, Prof. Dr. Abdul Rauf Khan, Prof. Dr. Nasir Rahim, and others.

During the meeting, the Vice Chancellor of Poonch University, Professor Dr. Zakaria Zakir, provided a detailed briefing on the ongoing educational activities and various projects in the university, along with the challenges faced by the institution.

It was announced during the meeting that all the rules of the University were approved by the Senate.

Addressing the gathering, President Azad Jammu and Kashmir Chancellor, Barrister Sultan Mehmood Chaudhry, emphasized the need to utilize all available resources to enhance the quality of education in Poonch University. He assured that every effort would be made to address the obstacles hindering the progress of the university.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to further strengthen the educational standards and infrastructure of the University of Poonch.

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The Azadi Times is an independent digital news platform based in Muzaffarabad, Kashmir, dedicated to credible journalism, in-depth reporting, and global analysis. We cover Kashmir, South Asia, and international affairs with a commitment to truth, editorial integrity, and public accountability.