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One Killed in Qallan Shooting as Shutdown Eases in Major Azad Kashmir Cities

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Jammu and Kashmir Sees Surge in Dog Bite Cases, 18 Rabies Deaths Recorded in Three Years

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Official figures reveal over 160,000 animal bite cases across J&K in four years, with health experts warning against delays in medical treatment.

JAMMU — Dog bite incidents continue to rise across Jammu and Kashmir despite administrative measures, with health records indicating an average of one case reported at hospitals every ten minutes.

According to data compiled by the Health and Medical Education Department, more than 160,000 animal bite cases have been registered across the region over the past four years. The numbers show a consistent upward trajectory: 22,110 cases in 2022; 34,664 in 2023; 51,027 in 2024; and 55,312 in 2025. Over 35,000 cases have already been recorded this year.

Jammu district accounts for the highest concentration of incidents. At the Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu alone, between 4,000 and 5,000 individuals seek treatment annually following animal bites.

Health officials report that while public awareness regarding post-bite treatment has improved, a section of the population continues to rely on traditional faiths and alternative rituals rather than seeking prompt medical intervention. Medical experts state that this delay remains a primary factor behind fatalities.

Official figures indicate that over the past three years, 18 individuals have died from rabies across various districts in Jammu and Kashmir. Fatalities include three deaths each in Jammu and Budgam districts; two each in Ramban, Reasi, Samba, and Baramulla; and one each in Udhampur, Doda, Kupwara, and Pulwama.

Dr. Harjit Rai explained that individuals bitten by a dog face a high risk of developing rabies if they fail to receive anti-rabies vaccination and serum within 24 hours. Once rabies symptoms manifest, survival chances are nearly non-existent, with the highest risk period extending from ten days to six months following an animal bite.

“If a person is bitten, the wound should immediately be washed thoroughly with running water and soap for ten minutes, which can reduce infection by up to 80 percent,” Dr. Rai said.

Dr. Rajiv Kumar emphasized that any animal bite warrants an immediate hospital visit for a full course of anti-rabies vaccinations. He cautioned against ignoring minor scratches and noted that even vaccinated domestic pets can transmit infections if they bite.

Recent data presented in the legislative assembly estimates that the municipal limits of Srinagar are home to roughly 64,416 stray dogs, while Jammu municipal areas account for an estimated 52,000. Peak incident hours typically occur during the morning and evening.

Dr. Bharat Bhushan, a retired joint director from the Animal Husbandry Department, attributed the growing stray population to the ineffective implementation of animal birth control programs. Currently, only one facility operates in Roop Nagar, Jammu, for population control measures.

“The government needs to establish multiple facilities to effectively implement birth control programs,” Dr. Bhushan said. “Additionally, open garbage dumps remain a major contributor to the stray dog population, providing accessible food sources that sustain rapid breeding.”

Vaishno Devi Yatra Helicopter Service Continues Uninterrupted Despite Cold Winds and Rain in Katra

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Helicopter services faced disruptions due to overcast skies over Trikuta Hills, while battery car and ropeway services remained operational for thousands of pilgrims.

Katra witnessed steady momentum in the Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrimage on Monday, as devotees continued their journey toward the shrine despite a sudden shift in weather that brought cold winds and light overnight rain to the region.

Overcast skies prevailed over the Trikuta Hills throughout much of the day, accompanied by persistent chilly winds. The adverse weather conditions impacted helicopter operations between Katra and the shrine, causing suspensions for the greater part of the day.

However, alternative modes of transport, including battery car services, horses, pithus, and palanquins, remained operational to assist pilgrims. Meanwhile, devotees seeking to visit the Bhairavnath temple utilized the ropeway service to reach the Bhairav valley seamlessly.

Despite the drop in temperature, large numbers of pilgrims arrived in Katra, completed their registration process, and proceeded toward the Bhawan with enthusiasm. Authorities noted that many visitors carried light woollens and rain gear as precautionary measures against the changing weather patterns.

According to meteorological department forecasts predicting possible rainfall in the coming days, authorities have advised travelers to remain cautious during the pilgrimage. By Monday evening, approximately 18,000 devotees had registered and departed for the shrine, with arrivals continuing into the late evening hours.

National Conference MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi Criticises Party Over J&K Statehood Resolutions and Public Mandate

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Srinagar MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi accuses his party of undermining the public mandate in Jammu and Kashmir, questioning the effectiveness of repeated resolutions on statehood and demanding accountability.

SRINAGAR — National Conference (NC) Member of Parliament Aga Ruhullah Mehdi on Tuesday launched a sharp critique against his own party leadership, accusing it of diluting the public mandate secured in the recent Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections and questioning its strategy regarding the restoration of statehood.

Addressing reporters and public concerns, Ruhullah stated that the electorate voted for the National Conference to fight for the reversal of the constitutional and political changes implemented on August 5, 2019.

“We gave assurances, hope, and promises to the public that we would fight no other battle except for the return of our constitutional rights,” Ruhullah said.

The Srinagar MP questioned the shifting stance on assembly resolutions, criticizing the introduction of multiple revisions.

“First a resolution, then another to weaken it, and then a third to amend that—this is a mockery of the people of Kashmir,” he said. He asked why the party sought votes from the public if there was a lack of clarity regarding its primary legislative objectives. He warned that compromising the public mandate through political expediency would not be forgiven by the public.

Turning to the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls, Ruhullah described alleged manipulation of votes as the most severe form of theft, noting that the ballot remains a fundamental tool for citizens to effect political change.

“When your vote itself is stolen, how do you bring about reform?” he asked.

In addition to domestic political concerns, Ruhullah called for the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging that the credibility and integrity of the Election Commission of India have been severely compromised.

“I do not believe he has any moral justification to remain in this post,” Ruhullah said, while calling for a comprehensive restructuring of the election body to ensure free and fair democratic processes.

Jammu & Kashmir to Launch WhatsApp-Based AI Platform for 100 Essential Public Services

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The proposed generative AI system will allow residents to access documents, track applications, and make payments via mobile without downloading separate apps or visiting government offices.

The Jammu & Kashmir administration is preparing to roll out a major digital initiative to provide residents with streamlined access to public services through WhatsApp, according to officials.

Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo chaired a high-level meeting with administrative secretaries on Tuesday to review preparations for launching the artificial intelligence-driven conversational messaging platform, developed by the Information Technology Department.

Under the first phase of the project, 100 of the most frequently used government services will be integrated into the WhatsApp platform. Residents will be able to apply for services, track application statuses, submit necessary documents, make payments, and receive official information directly through their mobile phones.

Authorities stated that the initiative aims to eliminate the need for citizens to download multiple applications or navigate various government web portals. The proposed generative AI system is designed to offer an integrated, multilingual, and user-friendly interface.

Dulloo emphasized the importance of extending the convenience of the digital platform to residents living in rural and remote areas. The system is being structured to function efficiently even in areas with low-speed internet connectivity.

According to the IT Department, J&K currently offers 1,710 e-services across various digital platforms. The initial rollout will focus on the 100 services utilized most frequently by the public.

The targeted services include the issuance of income, domicile, category, Economically Weaker Section (EWS), and Resident of Backward Areas (RBA) certificates, alongside land record services such as Farad, Girdawari, Jamabandi, and Intqaal.

Transport-related services—including the issuance and renewal of driving licenses, vehicle ownership transfers, e-challan payments, and online bidding for choice registration numbers—are also proposed for inclusion.

Additionally, Housing and Urban Development Department services such as birth and death certificates, no-objection certificates (NOCs) for commercial establishments, and building permission approvals will be accessible through the platform.

Social welfare schemes, including the Ladli Beti scheme, marriage assistance, post-matric scholarships, and merit-cum-means scholarships, are slated for integration. The system will further support utility payments such as electricity and water bills, ration card updates, agricultural schemes under the Holistic Agriculture Development Program, JKSSB registrations, and specific pilgrimage-related services.

The platform will support Urdu, Hindi, and English to ensure accessibility for diverse communities across the region.

Indian-Administered Kashmir Assembly Passes Resolution Calling for Restoration of Statehood

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The move comes years after New Delhi stripped the disputed Himalayan region of its special constitutional status in 2019, drawing strong opposition from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s ruling party.

Lawmakers in the Indian-administered region of Jammu and Kashmir have voted to support a resolution calling for the restoration of the territory’s statehood, years after New Delhi revoked its special constitutional status.

The resolution, approved on Monday, September 28, urges the central government in New Delhi to fulfill past commitments regarding the region's administrative status. While the assembly's vote is not legally binding on the Indian government, it reignites a contentious political debate over the governance of the disputed Himalayan territory, which has a population of approximately 13 million.

The motion was introduced in the Srinagar-based legislative assembly by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s administration. Addressing the house, Abdullah maintained that the restoration of statehood is a fundamental right for the region.

"This resolution calls upon the New Delhi government, which has repeatedly promised the restoration of statehood at an appropriate time, to ensure the immediate and complete reinstatement of Jammu and Kashmir’s state status," the text of the resolution stated.

The measure faced sharp opposition from lawmakers belonging to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Several BJP members boycotted the session prior to the vote, denouncing the resolution as "anti-national" and unconstitutional.

The political friction stems from August 2019, when the Indian government led by Prime Minister Modi revoked Article 370 of the constitution, stripping the region of its semi-autonomous status and special privileges. Following the constitutional amendment, Jammu and Kashmir was bifurcated and reorganized into two federally administered union territories.

Hrithik Roshan Showcases Support for Katrina Kaif Amid Online Trolling Over Postpartum Appearance

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Bollywood actor Hrithik Roshan has liked a social media post defending Katrina Kaif following critical online commentary concerning her postpartum appearance at a recent high-profile event.

Bollywood actor Katrina Kaif has faced online criticism regarding her postpartum appearance following a public appearance, drawing a silent show of support from fellow actor Hrithik Roshan.

Kaif and her husband, actor Vicky Kaushal, attended a religious festival hosted by India’s Ambani family in Mumbai on September 14. Following the event, photographs and videos circulated widely across social media platforms, prompting some users to post critical comments regarding the actor’s weight and appearance compared to past photographs.

In response to the online remarks, a two-slide Instagram post shared by Harsh Veer Jain under the handle ‘Story Seller Comics’ defended the actor. The post argued that criticizing a woman’s weight gain following childbirth is inappropriate. It added that while Kaif maintains a successful career and personal life—meaning online commentary would likely have little impact on her directly—such remarks can negatively influence other women observing the discourse.

Hrithik Roshan, who has previously co-starred with Kaif in films such as *Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara* and *Bang Bang*, showed support for the post by liking it on Instagram. Roshan did not issue a public statement or comment directly on the criticism.

Several other social media users also defended Kaif, noting that physical changes following childbirth are natural and that postpartum scrutiny is unwarranted.

Kaif and Kaushal welcomed their first child, a son, in November 2025. The actor’s most recent cinematic appearance was in the 2024 thriller *Merry Christmas*, starring alongside Vijay Sethupathi.

Afghan cyclist Fariba Hashmi wins Asian Games silver after training in disguise

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Fariba Hashmi, who fled Afghanistan after the 2001 Taliban takeover, disguised herself as a boy to practice cycling under strict restrictions.

An Afghan cyclist who once had to disguise herself as a boy to train safely in her homeland has won a silver medal at the Asian Games.

Fariba Hashmi secured the second-place finish on Tuesday, completing the race in two hours, 50 minutes, and five seconds, according to a report by the Associated Press.

Growing up in Afghanistan, where women’s rights are severely restricted, Hashmi faced immense hurdles to pursue her passion. Although she had cycled since childhood, continuing as she grew older became virtually impossible amid societal pressures.

Encouraged by a former athlete who recognized her talent, Hashmi found a way to practice by wearing men’s clothing and tucking her hair under a cap to avoid unwanted attention. When she felt someone might recognize her, she would wrap a scarf around the lower half of her face in the manner of local boys.

Despite these precautions, Hashmi said there were moments when people discovered she was a woman. When recognized, individuals sometimes attempted to catch or throw stones at her.

Hashmi left Afghanistan in 2021 following the Taliban’s return to power to pursue her athletic ambitions. “When the Taliban came, I left the country to fulfill my dream,” she said. “I wanted to show the world that if Afghan women are given the opportunity, they can achieve anything.”

Reflecting on her victory, the 23-year-old expressed joy and emotion, noting that she hopes to return to her homeland one day. “I hope that one day I will go back to my country and ride my bike on the streets of Kabul, and I will include other Afghan women in this spirit,” she said.

Hashmi also expressed optimism for future change in Afghanistan, suggesting that public frustration with current conditions is becoming apparent to the authorities. “I know how powerful a woman can be, and that is why the Taliban are afraid of women,” she added.

Why Indian Lawmaker Maithili Thakur’s Luxury Car Appearance Sparked Social Media Debate

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Young BJP MLA and folk singer Maithili Thakur faced online scrutiny after arriving at a religious event in a high-end luxury vehicle, prompting discussions over assets, transparency, and her established career in music.

For many, Maithili Thakur is recognized as one of India’s youngest elected lawmakers, having secured a victory in the Bihar legislative assembly elections representing the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). However, a recent public appearance in a high-end luxury vehicle has turned her financial background and assets into a subject of widespread online discussion.

Thakur, who hails from the Madhubani district in Bihar, gained initial prominence as a young folk, devotional, and classical singer. Her visibility increased significantly after she appeared on television music programs and built a substantial following through streaming platforms and social media, taking traditional music to a younger audience.

In the 2025 Bihar assembly elections, contesting from the Alinagar constituency on a BJP ticket, she entered electoral politics and won a seat in the state assembly. According to her election affidavit, she was 25 years old at the time, listed her profession as a singer, and declared total assets of approximately 3.82 million Indian rupees, with no listed liabilities. Movable assets were listed at roughly 2.32 million rupees and immovable assets at 1.5 million rupees. Financial disclosures also pointed to earnings from her ongoing career in music alongside her legislative role.

The ongoing public discussion began in September 2026, when Thakur attended a religious event celebrating the Ganesh Utsav festival in Mumbai. Video footage showed her arriving in a blue Rolls-Royce Cullinan, a luxury vehicle with a market value running significantly higher depending on models and local taxation.

The appearance immediately drew questions on social media. Several users compared the high-end vehicle to the asset figures declared in her official election affidavit, questioning how a luxury car of that scale aligned with her declared net worth. Some comments called for scrutiny or tax inquiries, while others noted the contrast between everyday vehicles and ultra-luxury automobiles.

At the same time, observers pointed out that there is no confirmed evidence indicating the luxury vehicle belongs to Thakur personally. Reports and commentary noted that it remains unclear whether the car was rented, owned by an acquaintance, or provided through specific arrangements during her visit, meaning any definitive assumptions regarding ownership remain unverified.

Supporters of the young lawmaker argued that her financial standing should not be judged solely through the lens of a newly elected legislator’s standard salary. Long before entering politics, Thakur established a successful career as a professional singer with large audiences, international performances, and substantial digital reach.

The debate also drew remarks from actor and BJP Member of Parliament Kangana Ranaut, who defended Thakur on social media. Ranaut questioned why successful artists entering public service should face criticism for enjoying the fruits of their professional careers, a stance that itself attracted further online commentary.

The discussion highlights the intersection between digital media scrutiny, public accountability, and the public lives of figures who transition from entertainment fields into electoral politics. While social media users continue to debate financial transparency and lifestyle optics, official records and the absence of verified ownership underline the distinction between online speculation and substantiated facts.

Shah Rukh Khan Named India’s Richest Actor Despite Drop in Net Worth

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Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan tops the 2026 Hurun India Rich List with an estimated wealth of 10,000 crore rupees, followed by Amitabh Bachchan and Salman Khan.

Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan remains India’s wealthiest actor, retaining the top position on the latest wealth rankings despite experiencing a notable decline in his overall net worth over the past year.

According to the 2026 Hurun India Rich List, cited by Indian news channel NDTV, Shah Rukh Khan’s total wealth is estimated at 10,000 crore rupees. His financial portfolio encompasses earnings from cinema, brand endorsements, and business ventures, including his production house Red Chillies Entertainment and the Knight Riders sports franchise.

The latest figure reflects a significant decrease from the previous year, when his wealth was valued at 12,490 crore rupees, marking a reduction of 2,490 crore rupees within a single year. Despite this drop, he maintains the highest financial standing among Indian entertainers.

Other prominent figures on the list include veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan, who ranks second with an estimated wealth of 4,000 crore rupees. Salman Khan follows in third place with 3,000 crore rupees, while Hrithik Roshan registered an increase in his wealth, securing the fourth spot with 2,500 crore rupees.

On the professional front, Shah Rukh Khan is currently working on his upcoming film *King*, directed by Siddharth Anand. The action thriller marks his return to the big screen following his 2023 release *Dunki*.

The upcoming movie features an ensemble cast including Deepika Padukone, Suhana Khan, Abhishek Bachchan, Anil Kapoor, Jackie Shroff, Rani Mukerji, Jaideep Ahlawat, Arshad Warsi, Abhay Verma, and Raghav Juyal. The film is scheduled for release on December 24, 2026.

Saudi Arabia Develops Over 120 Hiking Trails to Enhance Safety and Regulation

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The Saudi Hiking and Climbing Federation has mapped and assessed more than 120 trails across the kingdom, focusing on safety standards and risk management.

Efforts are underway across various regions to develop hiking trails, improve route standards, identify potential risks, enhance safety, and regulate hiking activities.

According to the Saudi Press Agency, Captain Faris Hijazi, Director of Hiking Affairs at the Saudi Hiking and Climbing Federation, stated that field work has successfully completed the preparation, mapping, and inspection of over 120 hiking trails throughout the kingdom.

The development of hiking trails begins with site inspections and geographical studies of the area. This is followed by selecting appropriate routes, determining difficulty levels, identifying potential risks, and mapping entry and exit points.

Captain Hijazi emphasized that the safety of hikers is prioritized, making detailed route studies and risk assessments essential.

He added that due to the kingdom’s diverse geographical features, including mountains, valleys, and deserts, each hiking track must be evaluated according to its unique characteristics. To achieve this, continuous field monitoring of the routes is conducted to promptly detect any changes that could impact hikers’ safety.

During the inspection of hiking tracks, authorities also verify whether the designated difficulty rating corresponds to the trail’s actual nature. This helps hikers choose appropriate routes matching their physical capabilities, plan their journeys using accurate information, and adhere to safety guidelines.