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

Syeda Sehar
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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

Editorial Staff
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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
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    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
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      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.

      Full Court Bench Formed by AJK High Court to Hear Writ Petition on Registration of Political Parties

      Saba Anjum
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      Full Court Bench Formed by AJK High Court to Hear Writ Petition on Registration of Political Parties

      Muzaffarabad (Azadi Times) March 20, 2023 – The High Court of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has constituted a full court bench to hear a writ petition filed regarding the registration of 08 political parties established in Azad Kashmir. The court has issued notices to the parties involved, and the next date of hearing has been fixed for 29th March.

      The writ petition was filed in the name of the Election Commissioner of Azad Kashmir by Councilors Wahidashraf, Rizwan-ur-Rashid Mughal, Zahoor Ahmed, Abdul Qayyum, Malik Inayat Hussain, etc., who were elected on party tickets in the recent local elections.

      The preliminary hearing of the writ petition took place in a Divisional Bench, presided over by Chief Justice of the High Court, Justice Raja Sadaqat, and Justice Sardar Muhammad Ejaz. Sardar Tahir Anwar Advocate, Syed Zulqarnain Naqvi Advocate, Khawaja Junaid Pandit Advocate, Raja Zarif Hussain Khan Advocate, and others appeared in the High Court on behalf of their respective parties.

      During the hearing, Sardar Tahir Anwar Advocate raised concerns about the registration of these political parties under the Political Parties Act, stating that it is doubtful. He argued that it is not competent to send notices to these councilors, as the records of the political parties were taken into custody by the Election Commission.

      The court approved the writ for regular hearing, during which three points will be raised:
      1. Whether the political parties that sent notices to their elected councilors are registered under the constitution and the law, and whether they were eligible to send notices.
      2. The status of the elected councilors who were elected on the ticket of these parties and whether they will send references to the Election Commission in this regard, and if the references are legally valid.
      3. Notices have been issued to the presidents and general secretaries of the parliamentary parties to present their stand by themselves or through a lawyer.

      Among the political parties involved are Pakistan Muslim League-N Azad Kashmir, Pakistan Peoples Party Azad Kashmir, All Jammu and Kashmir Muslim Conference, MQM Pakistan and Azad Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir People’s Party, Jamiat Ulema Islam Jammu Kashmir, and Jamaat-e-Islami Jammu and Kashmir.

      It should be noted that the Political Parties Act, under which political parties are registered, specifies punishments for wrong registration. Therefore, it is necessary that the person registering the political party should be a state subject. Additionally, the Act fixes the tenure of office bearers for three years.

      Mirpur Azad Kashmir Ramadan Timings 2023

        Editorial Staff
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        Mirpur Azad Kashmir Ramadan Timings 2023: Today’s 19 March 2023 (26th Shaban 1444) Mirpur Sehr & Iftar Time. Mirpur Ramadan Timing is: Sehr: 04:47 and Iftar: 18:19 (Hanafi). According to Fiqa Jafria (Shia) Sehr and Iftar Time is: Sehr: 04:37 and Iftar: 18:29. Find 30 days Ramadan time table for Mirpur AJK.

        Roza

        Date

        Sehr

        Iftaar

        123 March 202304:4118:22
        224 March 202304:4018:23
        325 March 202304:3918:24
        426 March 202304:3718:24
        527 March 202304:3618:25
        628 March 202304:3418:26
        729 March 202304:3318:26
        830 March 202304:3118:27
        931 March 202304:3018:28
        1001 April 202304:2818:29
        1102 April 202304:2718:29
        1203 April 202304:2518:30
        1304 April 202304:2418:31
        1405 April 202304:2218:32
        1506 April 202304:2118:32
        1607 April 202304:1918:33
        1708 April 202304:1818:34
        1809 April 202304:1718:34
        1910 April 202304:1518:35
        2011 April 202304:1418:36
        2112 April 202304:1218:37
        2213 April 202304:1118:37
        2314 April 202304:0918:38
        2415 April 202304:0818:39
        2516 April 202304:0618:40
        2617 April 202304:0518:40
        2718 April 202304:0318:41
        2819 April 202304:0218:42
        2920 April 202304:0118:43
        3021 April 202303:5918:43

        Muzaffarabad Sehr & Iftari Timings 2023 (Fiqa Hanfi)

        Saba Anjum
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        0

        Muzaffarabad Fiqa Hanfi Ramadan Sehr-o-Iftar timings of Fiqa Hanfia and 2023 suni Ramadan calendar. Find accurate Ahle Sunat Ramadan Sehri and Iftar time, Today 19 March 2023 Shia Ramadan timings are as follows: Sehar Time: 04:37 and Iftar Time: 18:31. These are calculated via the Shia Fiqa hanfia calculation methods. You can check the Fajar and Maghrib Adhan time in Muzaffarabad below.

         

        Muzaffarabad Sehr & Iftari Timings of Next 30 days (Fiqa Hanfi Sunni)

        Date

        Sehr Time

        Iftaar Time

        19 March 202304:4718:21
        20 March 202304:4518:22
        21 March 202304:4418:23
        22 March 202304:4318:24
        23 March 202304:4118:24
        24 March 202304:4018:25
        25 March 202304:3818:26
        26 March 202304:3718:27
        27 March 202304:3518:28
        28 March 202304:3418:28
        29 March 202304:3218:29
        30 March 202304:3118:30
        31 March 202304:2918:31
        01 April 202304:2718:31
        02 April 202304:2618:32
        03 April 202304:2418:33
        04 April 202304:2318:34
        05 April 202304:2118:34
        06 April 202304:2018:35
        07 April 202304:1818:36
        08 April 202304:1718:37
        09 April 202304:1518:38
        10 April 202304:1418:38
        11 April 202304:1218:39
        12 April 202304:1118:40
        13 April 202304:0918:41
        14 April 202304:0818:41
        15 April 202304:0618:42
        16 April 202304:0518:43
        17 April 202304:0318:44

        Opposition parties united to solve the problems of Khalana Valley

        Editorial Staff
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        Opposition parties united to solve the problems of Khalana Valley

        HATTIAN BALA: (Azadi Times) – Opposition parties have come together to address the pressing issues of the Khalana Valley by uniting along the ceasefire line.

        The ruling party’s decision to abstain from participating in any committee has been announced, drawing criticism from various quarters. The opposition alleges that instead of effectively resolving the people’s problems, the incumbent government has entrenched them deeper into a quagmire of issues, an approach deemed unacceptable by the opposition.

        Subedar (retd) Nur Afsar, Abdul Hafeez Abbasi, Muhammad Waseem Abbasi, Zeeshan Sagheer, and other prominent figures expressed their concerns, stating that previous governments did not face as many challenges, and conditions were not as dire as they are today.

        The area, once a picturesque green garden, has reportedly been neglected for the past two years. Instead of addressing the problems, the authorities have been accused of resorting to evasive tactics, merely casting shadows with the light of promises.

        The participants emphasized the urgent need to address the region’s issues. They expressed their determination not to be deceived by the ruling party any longer.

        Further, they expressed confidence in the leadership of opposition figures, including Raja Farooq Haider Khan, Sahibzada Ashfaq Zafar, and Dr. Raja Muhammad Mushtaq Khan. They affirmed their commitment to utilizing every available platform to resolve the area’s problems, even if it requires raising their voices and staging robust protests.

        The opposition reiterated that they will not be misled by the ruling party and are resolute in their pursuit of a resolution to the longstanding issues facing the Khalana Valley.

        AJK High Court Orders Removal of AJK Public Service Commission Employees Amid Allegations of Irregularities

        Noreen Haider
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        AJK High Court Orders Removal of AJK Public Service Commission Employees Amid Allegations of Irregularities

        Muzaffarabad (Azadi Times) – The Azad Jammu and Kashmir High Court has ordered the removal of all employees of the AJK Public Service Commission (PSC) ranging from grades 4 to 20. This decision came during the hearing of a writ petition filed by Abdul Basir Tajur against the Azad Government and the Public Service Commission.

        The petition raised concerns about alleged alterations and irregularities in the answer copies of candidates during Public Service Commission examinations. Chief Justice of the High Court and Justice Sardar Muhammad Ijaz Khan presided over the hearing, during which the reply copies were thoroughly examined. Subsequently, upon finding irregularities and alterations, the Public Service Commission was directed to dismiss all employees and officers from grades four to twenty and replace them with officers from other departments.

        The Supreme Court, in its decision, highlighted that a crucial institution like the Public Service Commission has lost its credibility and failed to maintain transparency. The general public and intellectuals have raised questions regarding the irregularities within the Commission.

        The Supreme Court further ordered that the papers of recent examinations should be re-evaluated by distinguished professors from the University of Azad Kashmir to ensure transparency.

        Concerns about the transparency of the commission have been expressed by candidates for a considerable period. Alterations in examination papers were reported to be common, with instances of sheets being tampered with to favor certain individuals. Some employees of the PSC were accused of engaging in bargaining during the examinations of District Education Officers, leading to the success of ineligible candidates. This compromised the integrity of the examination process, with qualified candidates’ papers being tampered with and sheets removed.

        Abdul Basir Tajur, a resident of Neelam, sought justice by approaching the High Court, which subsequently called for the examination papers. The illegal actions and irregularities of the PSC were established, leading to yesterday’s verdict where the bench, consisting of the Chief Justice of the High Court and Justice Ijaz, ordered the Secretary of Services to transfer all PSC employees. Simultaneously, they instructed to have the examination papers re-evaluated by a qualified professor from the University of Azad Kashmir.

        Renowned jurist Huzoor Imam Kazmi appeared in this case, representing Abdul Basir Tajur.

        AJK Minister Yasir Sultan Inaugurates Jashn e Baharan in Mirpur, AJK

          Editorial Staff
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          MIRPUR: (Azadi Times) The grand Jashan Baharan festival has started in Mirpur Azad Kashmir, the 5-day Biharan festival was inaugurated by the Minister of Physical Planning and Housing Chaudhry Yasar Sultan at the Mirpur Stadium, balloons were released in the air, the participants in the colorful festival danced happily.

          Special thanks were given to Chaudhry and Prime Minister Sardar Tanviraliyas. The chief guest appreciated the performance of the administration for organizing the successful festival, it was announced to hold Jashan Baharan Festival in the three divisions of Azad Kashmir.

          DG Sports Azad Kashmir Mehrban Rashid Chaudhry, Deputy Commissioner Chaudhry Amjad Iqbal, and Assistant Commissioner Sardar Abdul Qadir Khan were with him. In the festival, sports competitions, horse and cattle show, kabaddi, and javelin, highlighting the culture of the four provinces, food stalls and other entertainment programs were presented.

          In the Mirpur Cricket Stadium, the entrance is free for the spectators of the festival. In the opening ceremony, excellent performances and tableau shows were presented by the students of government and private schools.

          Azad Kashmir Minister of Physical Planning and Housing Chaudhry Yasir Sultan while addressing the opening ceremony of Jashan Baharan Mela said that the district administration congratulates the successful organization of Jashan Baharan Mela in Mirpur.

          The real heroes of Jashan Biharan are the students who are deaf and blind, but they have given the fair four moons. Such fairs should be held every year. Muzaffarabad. Actions will be taken regarding the successful KPL.\

          Spring celebrations will be held in the three divisions of Azad Kashmir. In this event, the performance of every person including the district administration, sports department, students of government private schools, and teachers will be appreciated.

          Appreciate those who devoted their energies to making the festival a success. Jashan Baharan festival will promote positive activities in society. A healthy society is essential for the development of the state.

          Secretary Sports of Azad Kashmir Chaudhry Muhammad Raqib Khan said that he congratulates the government of Azad Kashmir on the festival of Jashan Baharan. Special guests are grateful to the Minister of Physical Planning and Housing Chaudhry Yasir Sultan who participated in the festival with his participation and encouraged the female students.

          Such fairs play an important role in promoting our culture, Commissioner Mirpur Division Chaudhary Shaukat Ali appreciated all the departments and organizers, he said that such fairs are to encourage the youth towards positive activities.

          The festival is commendable, on the first day of the festival, karate, martial art cricket match, and tug-of-war competitions were held by young students, and the performance of special students of Kashmir Institute of Special Education captivated the audience. Pakistani and Kashmiri national anthem was presented, and Pilot High Students of the school saluted by playing the band.

          Secretary Sports Chaudhry Mohammad Raqib, Commissioner Mirpur Division Chaudhry Shaukat Ali, Deputy Commissioner Chaudhry Amjadaqbal, DG MDHHA Chaudhry Mansha, DG Sports Mehrban Rashid, Chairman Main District Council Naveed Akhtar Goga, Additional Director Livestock were present at the festival.

          Dr. Khalid Qayyum Butt Sabir Shah President Chamber, Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Municipal Representatives, Police Officers, Education Department, Lawyers, Journalists, NGO representatives, men, and women participated. Traffic arrangements for Saraha Festival, police were deployed, athletes were given shields by the organizers.

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