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Taqdees Gillani: Immigrants Integral to Jammu and Kashmir’s Progress

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Muzaffarabad: Professor Taqdees Gillani, the spokesperson of the independent state of Jammu and Kashmir and member of the Legislative Assembly, emphasized the pivotal role immigrants have played in the construction and development of the country. Speaking at an event organized by Tehreek-e-Insaf North, Gillani underscored the significant contributions of immigrants to the nation’s growth.

Gillani praised Prime Minister Imran Khan’s efforts to grant voting rights to immigrants, noting that Tehreek-e-Insaf has consistently enjoyed strong support from this demographic. He highlighted Khan’s dedication to resolving the country’s crises and steering its destiny toward a brighter future. Gillani expressed confidence that Tehreek-e-Insaf would secure a two-thirds majority in the upcoming general election and form the government once again.

The event, attended by Tehreek-e-Insaf leader Sahibzada Jahangir, Dr. Abdullah Riar, Makhdoom Tariq, Naeem Malik, Javed Jaedi, and officials and workers of Tehreek-e-Insaf from across the UK, provided a platform for Gillani to advocate for immigrants’ rights and the Kashmir issue at the international level.

Gillani highlighted the significant Kashmiri diaspora in Britain, emphasizing their positive impact on the country’s economy. He urged overseas Kashmiris to invest in Azad Kashmir, assuring them of Tehreek-e-Insaf government’s full support.

In his address, Gillani lauded Prime Minister Imran Khan as the only leader trusted by the nation, including immigrants. He urged immigrants to actively engage in raising the Kashmir issue internationally, shedding light on India’s nefarious activities in the region.

Professor Taqdees Gillani’s remarks underscore the critical role immigrants play in the progress of Jammu and Kashmir, while also emphasizing the importance of their rights and involvement in shaping the region’s future.

Remarkable Transformation: Girl Turns into Boy in Hattian Bala Azad Kashmir

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    HATTIAN BALA: (Azadi Times) In a remarkable turn of events, the life of Syeda Laila Batul, a third-grade student studying at Red Foundation School in Chanari, has taken an unexpected twist as she transitioned from a girl to a boy.

    Nine-year-old Syeda Laila Batul, the daughter of Syed Intizar Hussain Shah, a resident of Bandi Syedan village adjacent to Chinari in the Jhelum Valley district of Azad Kashmir, astonished everyone when she suddenly changed her gender and embraced being a boy.

    Speaking to journalists, the child, now identifying as a boy, expressed happiness about the change, stating, “Before, I was a girl. I had long hair. It has been a few days since I became a boy, and I have also cut my hair. I am very happy to be a boy now.”

    Syed Intizar Hussain Shah, the child’s father, informed reporters about the sequence of events leading to the transformation. He stated, “Earlier, my nine-year-old daughter complained of a stomach ache, so we got her checked up in Chinari. We then took her to Muzaffarabad, but even there, no one could diagnose her illness. Subsequently, we took her to Pindi. By the grace of Allah, my daughter has now become a boy.”

    The child, now a boy, has not yet been named. Shah mentioned, “Since the daughter has transformed into a son, he has not been sent to school. After the annual exams, we will enroll him in a boys’ school. He still has to undergo an operation, after which his education will continue.”

    According to the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) records and Form B, Laila Batul’s date of birth is 15th January 2015. After completing the necessary procedures, the child will be given a new name and registered in Form B.

    The news of a girl transitioning into a boy has spread rapidly throughout the entire Jhelum Valley, leaving everyone awestruck by the power of God.

    Prime Minister of AJK Supports Journalistic Welfare and Kashmir Cause

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    MUZAFFARABAD:  February 19, 2023, Prime Minister of Azad Government of Jammu and Kashmir, Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan, graced the swearing-in ceremony of the newly elected administration at the Central House of Journalism in Muzaffarabad.

    Upon his arrival, the newly elected President Wahid Iqbal Butt, Secretary General Basharat Mughal, and other journalists welcomed Prime Minister Tanveer Ilyas Khan by showering flowers, marking the auspicious occasion.

    Prime Minister Tanveer Ilyas Khan administered the oath to the newly elected administration and extended his congratulations to them. He also announced significant contributions to the press club, including 3 million rupees, employment opportunities for the children of late senior journalist Dilshir Abbasi, and the construction of a gymnasium. Additionally, he allocated 300 kanals of land for the journalist housing society and provided financial support to women journalists and newspaper vendors to encourage their dedication and hard work.

    Addressing the ceremony, Prime Minister Tanveer Ilyas Khan highlighted his personal connection with journalism and emphasized the historical significance of the Central House of Journalism as the spokesperson for the entire state of Jammu and Kashmir. He stressed the importance of the welfare of the press club and journalists for the development and prosperity of the region.

    Prime Minister Tanveer Ilyas Khan urged journalists to expose the atrocities committed by India in Occupied Kashmir and to advocate for the rights of the Kashmiri people. He commended the exemplary role of journalists in society and emphasized the importance of honoring and respecting those who uphold justice through their words.

    In support of the Kashmir Solidarity Day, Prime Minister Tanveer Ilyas Khan highlighted the unity among political parties in Pakistan, emphasizing the need to expose Indian brutality in every international forum. He proposed sending a representative delegation of government and opposition members of parliament, along with state journalists, to various countries to raise awareness about the Kashmir issue.

    Prime Minister Tanveer Ilyas Khan announced innovative initiatives in the information department, including inter-provincial trips for journalists to historical places and journalistic organizations. He emphasized the importance of constructive criticism and the need for journalists to undergo modern science and arts courses to enhance their skills.

    Expressing his concern for the welfare of women, Prime Minister Tanveer Ilyas Khan announced measures to increase assistance to disabled individuals and improve the welfare of disabled women.

    The ceremony was attended by a large number of journalists, including Most Senior Minister Khawaja Farooq Ahmed and Education Minister Schools, Tuta Dewan Ali Chaghtai, who expressed their full support for the government’s efforts in advancing the freedom movement, construction, development, and prosperity of Kashmir.

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    Prime Minister Azad Government of Jammu and Kashmir Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan attending the swearing-in ceremony of the newly elected administration at the Central House of Journalism in Muzaffarabad.

    Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks Beginning of Construction for Women University in Bagh AJK

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    Rawalakot, Azad Kashmir (Azadi Times): A significant step forward in the advancement of education for women in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, the formal construction of the Women’s University in Bagh has commenced with a groundbreaking ceremony held at Bani Pisari. Financed under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP), the project promises to usher in a new era of educational excellence for the region.

    After a thorough and transparent selection process, Aaj Sons Construction Firm emerged as the chosen contractor for this ambitious venture. Recently, an agreement was inked between the Director of Finance, Sahibzada Muhammad Zahid, and Aaj Sons Company CEO, Engineer Adeel Raza Shangri, outlining the construction of various university facilities, including the academic block, cafeteria, library, and other essential structures.

    The construction phase is set to kick off imminently, with an inauguration ceremony planned at Bani Pisari to commemorate this significant milestone.

    In expressing gratitude, Dr. Abdul Hameed, the Vice Chancellor of the university, extended appreciation to the Higher Education Commission for their steadfast support in realizing this endeavor. He emphasized the monumental nature of this achievement for the people of Bagh and Azad Kashmir as a whole.

    Dr. Hameed also revealed that the design work for the second phase of the university’s construction is already underway. He confirmed that the tendering process for the subsequent phase will be initiated shortly.

    Highlighting the pivotal role of the university, Dr. Hameed articulated that it will not only deliver quality education to women in Azad Kashmir but will also serve as a catalyst for research and innovation.

    The commencement of the Women University of Azad Jammu and Kashmir Bagh’s construction represents a significant milestone in the region’s development trajectory. It is poised to enhance educational opportunities for women, foster a culture of research and innovation, and contribute to the empowerment and upliftment of women, thereby elevating their socio-economic status.

    This promising development underscores the commitment of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir government to the cause of education and the welfare of its people. With the initiation of this landmark project, the region is poised to witness a transformative shift in its educational landscape, ensuring a brighter and more prosperous future for generations to come.

    Concerns Raised Over Ad Hoc Appointments in AJK: Call for Merit-Based Reforms

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    In a crowded conference, Sardar Tanveer Qayyum, Asim Latif, Mohammad Luqman Chauhan, Aamir Ishaq Zafar, and Raja Asim bin Salem voiced their concerns regarding the Ad Hoc Act, alleging that it facilitates the appointment of ineligible ministers, advisors, and MLAs, thereby depriving highly educated youth and their deserving relatives of their rightful opportunities. They emphasized that these appointments are made without the involvement of the Public Service Commission (PSC) and lack any merit-based selection process.

    The speakers highlighted the issue of individuals failing PSC and NTS exams being elevated to higher positions across various institutions, including educational ones, which, they argued, severely jeopardizes the future of upcoming generations.

    Criticizing the practice of granting extensions every six months and subsequently passing bills in the Azad Kashmir Assembly to make these appointments permanent, the speakers condemned this as a violation of basic human rights rather than a humanitarian act.

    They stressed that the fundamental role of the state is to ensure equal rights for all citizens and not to favor certain individuals for government positions. They asserted that it has become a tradition to appoint members of political families to high-ranking positions under the Ad Hoc Act, thereby denying opportunities to highly educated individuals.

    Promising to raise their voices against this longstanding flawed system at every available platform, the speakers demanded the immediate withdrawal of the AJK Ad Hoc Act. They urged for the functional reinstatement of the Public Service Commission and insisted that all government appointments should be based strictly on merit, similar to the Federal Public Service.

    This call for reform underscores the pressing need to rectify the prevailing system and ensure that appointments to government positions are conducted in a fair, transparent, and merit-based manner.

    By Azadi Times Correspondent

    Rawalkot: Commissioner Poonch Division Urges Smooth Conduct of Digital Census

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      Commissioner Poonch Division, Chaudhry Mohammad Farid, has emphasized the imperative for Deputy Commissioners of districts to utilize all available resources to ensure the successful execution of the ongoing census, which commenced on March 1. In a high-level meeting held in the conference hall of his office, Commissioner Farid urged officials to complete all arrangements for the census well in advance and eliminate any obstacles for the first digital census.

      During the meeting, Commissioner Farid directed the concerned authorities to ensure the timely supply of tablets to trained enumerators, with completion scheduled before February 24. He emphasized the importance of making foolproof security arrangements throughout the census process.

      Attending the meeting were Deputy Commissioner Poonch Badramneer, Deputy Commissioner Sidhanoti Dr. Umar Azam Khan, Deputy Commissioner Bagh Hameed Kayani, Deputy Commissioner Haveli, as well as the Superintendent and Deputy Superintendent of Police of the four districts, who joined via video link. Also present were Deputy Director of Information Poonch Division, Saadullah Khan, Honorable Local Government Asif Kayani, representatives of the Pakistan Armed Forces, NADRA officials, and representatives of the Statistical Institute.

      During the session, the Deputy Commissioners of the four districts briefed Commissioner Poonch about the arrangements and challenges regarding the census in their respective districts. Additionally, representatives of the Superintendent of Police and the Pakistan Army provided insights into the foolproof security arrangements planned for the census.

      Commissioner Poonch, Chaudhry Muhammad Farid, reiterated that all issues faced by various districts concerning the census would be addressed promptly. He urged all concerned parties to collaborate effectively to fulfill the national duty of conducting the census efficiently.

      The proactive measures taken by Commissioner Farid underscore the commitment of the Poonch Division to ensure the smooth and accurate execution of the digital census, a crucial national undertaking.

      By Azadi Times Correspondent

      Date: February 15, 2019

      Muzaffarabad: Azad Kashmir Cabinet Approves Landmark Education Policy

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      Muzaffarabad: In a significant move aimed at transforming the educational landscape in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), the Azad Kashmir cabinet has granted approval to the region’s first-ever education policy. The establishment of educational institutions with the backing of international organizations marks a pivotal step toward enhancing educational standards in the region.

      The practical measures devised to provide the best education to children who are currently unable to access it stand as a testament to the educational commitment of Azad Kashmir Prime Minister, Sardar Tanveer Ilyas.

      Syed Zeeshan Haider, the central leader of PTI Azad Kashmir and former candidate of the Legislative Assembly of AJK, expressed these views while addressing journalists following a function. Haider extended special congratulations to Education Minister Dewan Ali Khan Chaghtai for his groundbreaking educational initiatives.

      Highlighting the pressing need to realign the focus of government teachers in Azad Kashmir, Haider emphasized that the new education policy will facilitate the operation of schools in collaboration with private institutions under a public-private partnership model. This collaborative effort is expected to significantly enhance the education system in the region, as Haider asserted that societal development is intrinsically linked to the improvement of the education system in Azad Kashmir.

      Citing the dilapidated state of schools and the education system in the region, Haider criticized previous governments for prioritizing infrastructure projects such as roads and bridges over educational reforms. He lauded the swift and commendable actions taken by Education Minister Diwan Ali Chaghtai, noting that significant progress has been made in a remarkably short span of time.

      Furthermore, Haider underscored that in alignment with the vision of Chairman Tehreek-e-Insaf, the Azad Kashmir government has initiated concrete steps to foster a highly educated, skilled, and self-sufficient populace in Azad Kashmir. He expressed confidence that the tangible benefits of these initiatives would soon reach the people.

      The approval of the education policy signifies a pivotal juncture in the educational trajectory of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, setting the stage for a brighter and more promising future for the region’s educational landscape.

      Muzaffarabad: Maria Manzoor Khawaja Takes Oath as District Council Member

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      Muzaffarabad: Maria Manzoor Khawaja, a woman councilor representing the constituency of opposition leader Chaudhry Latif Akbar, has officially assumed office as a member of the district council of Muzaffarabad. Following her successful election, she was sworn in as a member of the district council on Monday.

      In a ceremony held on Monday, Maria Manzoor took the oath of office, signifying her commitment to serving the community and upholding the responsibilities entrusted to her as a council member.

      After taking the oath, she proceeded to the opposition chamber, where she was warmly congratulated by opposition leader Chaudhry Latif Akbar, who adorned her with a garland in a gesture of appreciation and support.

      Expressing her gratitude, Maria Manzoor stated, “I am grateful to Allah for this opportunity. I am fully dedicated to fulfilling the trust placed in me by the Leader of the Opposition in Kashmir, Chaudhry Latif Akbar. I am determined to continue the fight for the betterment of our community.”

      Accompanying Maria Manzoor was MLA Khawaja Farooq, who also extended his congratulations on her new role as a member of the district council.

      The induction of Maria Manzoor Khawaja into the district council marks an important development, underlining the ongoing efforts to enhance representation and promote active participation in the local governance of Muzaffarabad.

      By Azadi Times Correspondent

      Date: February 13, 2023

      Elected Members Sworn in for District Council and Municipal Committee in Hattian Bala

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        Hattian Bala: In a significant development for local governance, elected members from various constituencies took the oath of office for the District Council, Municipal Committee, and Union Councils of Hattian Bala tehsil in a solemn ceremony held recently.

        Among those elected, Sadia Hanif Shaikh from Chakhama Village was unable to take the oath due to illness. Deputy Commissioner of Jhelum Valley, Syed Fida Kazmi, administered the oath to the members elected on seven special seats of the District Council Jhelum Valley and the Municipal Committee Hattian Bala. Assistant Commissioner of Hattian Bala, Waleed Anwar, administered the oath to the members elected on special seats from the thirteen Union Councils.

        The ceremony, held with due protocol and decorum, witnessed the swearing-in of the following members:

        For District Council Jhelum Valley:

        • Asad Chaghtai Advocate
        • Zafar Iqbal Mughal Advocate
        • Shagufata Roshan Kayani
        • Ghazala Ashraf
        • Hasnain Kazmi

        For Municipal Committee Hattian Bala:

        • Aftab Khan
        • Nafeesa Farid

        For Union Councils of Hattian Bala Tehsil:

        • From Saran: 28 out of 29 members
        • From Sadak Chinari: Representatives
        • From Sina Daman: Representatives
        • From Chakothi: Representatives
        • From Khalana: Representatives
        • From Pahal: Representatives
        • From Gujjar Bandi: Representatives
        • From Chakhama: Representatives
        • From Nadjian: Representatives
        • From Lamnian: Representatives
        • From Maknet: Representatives
        • From Goharabad: Representatives
        • From Langla: 28 out of 29 members

        The members, representing various constituencies, expressed their commitment to serving the community with integrity and diligence. They pledged to uphold the principles of democracy and work tirelessly for the welfare and development of the region.

        The ceremony, attended by officials, dignitaries, and community representatives, was a testament to the vibrant democratic process in Hattian Bala, emphasizing the active participation of citizens in local governance.

        Reported by Azadi Times Correspondent

        Police in Garhi Dupatta Conduct Successful Operation Against Drug Dealers

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        Garhi Dupatta: (Azadi Times) In a decisive action against drug dealers, the Station House Officer (SHO) of Garhi Dupatta Police Station, Manzar Hussain Chaghtai, led a successful operation under the directives of DIG Muzaffarabad region Irfan Masood Kashfi, SSP Muzaffarabad Mirza Zahid Hussain, and DSP HQ Faizur Rehman Abbasi.

        During the operation, SHO Manzar Hussain Chaghtai and his team apprehended several individuals involved in drug trafficking. Five bottles of liquor were seized from the possession of the accused, identified as Malik Aziz (son of Malik Abid), Hasan Abbasi (son of Hanif Abbasi), Shani (son of Rafiq Mughal), Taib (son of Altaf Rana), and Arbab Abbasi (son of Muhammad Rafiq Abbasi Saknan Lavasi).

        A case has been registered against the accused, and efforts are underway to apprehend the fugitive suspect, Sherry (son of Javed Sukna College), with raids being conducted in Chowk.

        This proactive operation underscores the commitment of law enforcement authorities to crack down on illegal activities and maintain law and order in the region. The swift action taken by the Garhi Dupatta Police Station demonstrates their dedication to ensuring the safety and security of the community.