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Pakistan Upgrades Diplomatic Mission in Afghanistan to Ambassadorial Level

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Pakistan Upgrades Diplomatic Mission in Afghanistan to Ambassadorial Level

Islamabad – Pakistan has officially announced the elevation of its diplomatic mission in Afghanistan to the ambassadorial level, in a move aimed at strengthening bilateral ties with its war-torn neighbour.

The decision was confirmed by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, who stated that the upgrade reflects Pakistan’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with Afghanistan across various sectors.

“We hope this step will deepen our collaboration in areas of economic development and security cooperation,” Dar said in a statement released on Thursday.

The upgrade marks a significant shift in Pakistan’s diplomatic posture toward Afghanistan. Until now, Islamabad had maintained its Kabul mission at the level of Chargé d’Affaires, a position often associated with transitional or limited diplomatic engagement.

Trade and Regional Stability in Focus

Dar emphasized that the move is also aimed at revitalising trade between the two countries. Pakistan and Afghanistan share a rugged, porous border and complex political history, but trade and economic interdependence remain key to their relationship.

“We believe this will foster stronger commercial ties and pave the way for stable, long-term engagement,” he added.

The announcement comes in the wake of Dar’s official visit to Kabul on April 19, 2025, which he described as a “turning point” for bilateral relations. During the visit, senior officials from both sides reportedly discussed issues ranging from border security and counterterrorism to trade facilitation and regional connectivity.

Context and Challenges

Pakistan’s decision to appoint an ambassador comes at a time of heightened regional uncertainty. Tensions have flared in recent months over cross-border attacks and the presence of militant groups operating in border regions. Afghanistan’s Taliban-led government has repeatedly called for a more formal diplomatic recognition and enhanced economic ties with neighbouring countries, particularly Pakistan.

Independent analysts view the ambassadorial appointment as both a symbolic and strategic gesture, potentially setting the stage for more institutionalised dialogue between the two governments.

Online Gambling Epidemic Surges in Kashmir, Deepening Financial and Psychological Toll

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Online Gambling Epidemic Surges in Kashmir, Deepening Financial and Psychological Toll

Srinagar, Indian administered Kashmir – Mushtaq Ahmad (name changed), a postgraduate from central Kashmir, has been struggling with a gambling addiction for the past two years. What began as a seemingly harmless hobby—placing bets on a cricket game—quickly spiraled into a debilitating obsession that has left him financially broken. “He once lost over Rs 1.25 lakh on a betting app. That incident nearly shattered him,” said his family, who have attempted counseling in a bid to curb his dangerous behavior. Despite their efforts, Ahmad continues to relapse. “These apps promise quick money, and that illusion is incredibly hard to escape,” his family added.

Ahmad’s story is far from unique. Across Jammu and Kashmir, an increasing number of young people are falling prey to the seductive lure of online gambling, driven by the rise of fantasy sports apps and unregulated betting platforms. This growing crisis has raised alarms among experts, who warn that gambling addiction is fast becoming a silent epidemic. Its impact on mental health, family stability, and financial security is becoming more pronounced with each passing day.

The Hidden Crisis: Online Gambling’s Surge

According to officials from Cyber Police Kashmir, the province is witnessing a rapid increase in online gambling activities, with some individuals reportedly losing lakhs of rupees. “We have seen a significant rise in gambling cases, and the money involved is substantial,” said a Cyber Police official. “This is becoming an epidemic with each passing day.”

The anonymity provided by digital platforms, coupled with the widespread availability of smartphones and the rising levels of unemployment, has created a perfect storm for online gambling to flourish. Apps that disguise themselves as fantasy sports platforms or seemingly harmless games are becoming increasingly common in the region. These platforms often operate from offshore locations where Indian laws are not applicable, making enforcement a significant challenge.

Despite the strict prohibition of gambling in Jammu and Kashmir, illegal betting rings have found a way to thrive. “Gambling is strictly prohibited in Jammu and Kashmir,” explained a senior police official. “However, illegal apps have found a stronghold in the region. The accessibility of digital platforms, coupled with the lack of regulation, is contributing to the escalation of this problem.”

A Growing Crisis Among Families

Families across Kashmir are increasingly reporting instances of financial distress and psychological trauma related to online gambling. In some extreme cases, individuals have turned to substance abuse as a way to cope with the emotional and financial toll caused by their gambling habits. The addiction is not only straining personal relationships but also exacerbating mental health issues within the community.

The larger issue of online gambling in India has been steadily growing, with over 140 million regular users across the country. This number surges dramatically during events like the Indian Premier League (IPL). Fantasy sports platforms such as Dream11, MPL, and My11Circle have become household names, operating legally as “games of skill.” However, the increasing popularity of these platforms has led to the rise of unregulated apps that exploit loopholes in the law, blurring the lines between skill and chance.

The Legal Loophole: Offshore Betting Apps and Outdated Laws

While fantasy sports platforms have a legal framework in India, many offshore gambling apps circumvent the regulations by operating from jurisdictions like Curacao, Malta, and Cyprus. These apps often run under the guise of “games of skill,” but experts argue that they still rely heavily on chance, violating Indian gambling laws. The challenge for Indian authorities is that enforcing these laws across borders is both complex and resource-intensive.

India’s current gambling laws are deeply outdated, with much of the legislation stemming from the colonial-era Betting Act of 1853 and the Public Gaming Act of 1867. After independence, states were granted the power to regulate gambling within their own jurisdictions, leading to a patchwork of different laws across the country. A game that is legal in one state might be banned in another, creating a confusing legal landscape that is difficult to navigate.

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In Jammu and Kashmir, where regulatory infrastructure is weak and law enforcement agencies are stretched thin, the illegal gambling industry is expanding unchecked. Police and other authorities are facing significant challenges in addressing the rise of online gambling, with little coordination or support from other states or the central government.

The Mental and Financial Toll on Kashmiris

As gambling addiction spreads, the region is witnessing not just financial losses but also a growing psychological burden on individuals and families. The lure of quick money through online gambling apps has proven to be an irresistible trap for many, especially young people struggling with unemployment and limited opportunities.

The ramifications are clear: as more people fall victim to these platforms, the mental health crisis in Kashmir continues to worsen. Families are left grappling with financial ruin, while individuals face growing anxiety and despair. Experts suggest that addressing this crisis will require a multifaceted approach, including stronger enforcement of existing laws, better public awareness campaigns, and the creation of more robust mental health support systems.

Looking Ahead: The Need for Action

With the problem of online gambling showing no signs of abating, the need for urgent action has never been greater. Experts and concerned citizens alike are calling for more stringent regulations, better enforcement of existing laws, and a broader conversation around addiction and mental health in Kashmir.

As the region grapples with the toll of online gambling, it is clear that the stakes are high—not just for the individuals caught in its grip, but for the broader society. The time to address this growing crisis is now, before it spirals further out of control.

Dozens of Government Schools in Jammu and Kashmir Have No Students, Report Finds

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Dozens of Government Schools in Jammu and Kashmir Have No Students, Report Finds

Srinagar, Indian-administered Kashmir – At least 65 government-run schools in Jammu and Kashmir are operating without a single student enrolled, according to a new report by India’s Ministry of Education.

The findings, released earlier this week, reveal serious challenges facing the region’s public education system. The report notes that out of 18,785 government schools across the Union Territory, 62 primary schools and three upper primary schools have zero enrolment.

In addition, more than 5,000 schools have fewer than 30 students, while nearly 1,600 institutions are operating with enrolment numbers below 15.

Staff-Student Imbalance and Infrastructure Concerns

The report also points to a troubling trend in student-teacher ratios. Around 16 percent of primary schools in the region have what the Ministry terms a “negative Pupil-Teacher Ratio” – meaning fewer students than teaching staff, raising questions over resource allocation and efficiency.

Read Also: The Unfolding Legacy of Kashmiriyat: A Cultural and Educational Odyssey in the Kashmir Valley

The Ministry has asked local authorities to investigate the reasons behind the low enrolment numbers and address staffing issues in schools with disproportionate ratios.

Vocational Education Lagging Behind

The report further highlights the slow pace of vocational education implementation. Under the Samagra Shiksha programme – a nationwide educational reform initiative – the ministry had approved vocational training for 1,869 schools in Jammu and Kashmir. However, only 621 schools have successfully rolled out the programmes so far, representing a 72% coverage rate.

Vocational training sectors include agriculture, information technology, healthcare, tourism, retail, beauty and wellness, and others.

The Ministry has urged the administration to expand the reach of skill-based education by identifying new sectors aligned with local economic needs, and by introducing relevant job roles for students in underrepresented areas.

Wider Context

Education in Indian-administered Kashmir has long been affected by political instability, military presence, and periodic shutdowns that disrupt academic life. Analysts say low enrolment numbers are not solely a reflection of policy gaps but also the broader environment in which children and families in conflict zones navigate education.

Independent observers have noted that infrastructure decay, lack of accountability, and socio-political alienation have all contributed to declining trust in state-run institutions.

While Indian authorities have promoted schemes aimed at modernising education in the region, critics argue that results on the ground remain inconsistent.

AAP Jammu & Kashmir Chief Mehraj Malik Booked for Alleged Defamation, Criminal Intimidation of Female Doctor

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    AAP Jammu & Kashmir Chief Mehraj Malik Booked for Alleged Defamation, Criminal Intimidation of Female Doctor

    Jammu, Indian administered Kashmir – The Jammu and Kashmir Police have registered an FIR against the Chief of the Jammu and Kashmir unit of the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and Member of Legislative Assembly (MLA), Mehraj Malik, on charges of defamation, criminal intimidation, and insulting the modesty of a woman doctor in Doda district.

    The complaint was filed by an associate professor at the Government Medical College, Doda, who has accused Malik of using social media platforms to issue threats and make derogatory, gendered remarks against her. The doctor alleges that the MLA publicly targeted her with abusive language, which she claims was intended to intimidate and malign her professional reputation.

    In her complaint to the Doda Police, the complainant described a series of disturbing incidents in which Malik allegedly used social media to make offensive statements, including phrases such as “ghaseetunga” (will drag you) and “will strip you naked.” These, she stated, were not just verbal assaults but clear threats to her dignity and safety.

    “These words are not mere expressions of anger; they are direct threats aimed at my professional and personal integrity as a female doctor. They violate my modesty and threaten my well-being,” the complainant noted in her statement.

    Further complicating the situation, the complainant revealed that Malik had also taunted her by saying, “This hospital doesn’t belong to your father,” a remark that she found particularly hurtful, given that her father passed away over a decade ago.

    The MLA is also accused of entering the labor room at the hospital without authorization, accompanied by his associates and broadcasting the incident via social media. This alleged act, the complainant stated, was a serious breach of patient privacy, especially for vulnerable female patients and staff, and posed a threat to the hospital’s security protocols.

    In addition to the social media harassment, the doctor emphasized the emotional distress caused by Malik’s actions, particularly in a sensitive hospital environment where patients and staff are expected to operate in a space of mutual respect and trust.

    This is not the first time Mehraj Malik has found himself embroiled in controversy. Earlier this year, he faced a non-bailable arrest warrant issued by the Special Excise Mobile Magistrate’s Court in Jammu. The warrant was related to a case filed by former Minister Ghulam Mohammad Saroori, accusing Malik of making false statements.

    The FIR against Malik has raised concerns about the increasing use of social media for defamation, intimidation, and personal vendettas, particularly in a region already marked by political tensions. Many are now questioning whether public figures are being held accountable for the harmful and unethical use of digital platforms.

    The Jammu and Kashmir Police are yet to make an official statement on the investigation. However, the growing outcry over Malik’s alleged behavior has prompted calls for stricter regulations on the use of social media, especially by public figures who wield significant influence.

    While the case has sparked debate, the safety and dignity of women professionals in the region, particularly in the medical field, remains at the forefront of discussions. The medical community, including doctors’ associations in Jammu and Kashmir, have expressed solidarity with the complainant, stressing the importance of a secure work environment free from harassment.

    As investigations unfold, the case has further underscored the pressing need for accountability and respect in both political and social discourse within Jammu and Kashmir.

    In Remote Kashmir Village, Teacher Builds Classrooms with Own Funds Amid Government Neglect

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      In Remote Kashmir Village, Teacher Builds Classrooms with Own Funds Amid Government Neglect

      Uri, Indian-Administered Kashmir — In a remarkable act of dedication, a school teacher in the remote village of Dudran Boniyar, located in Jammu and Kashmir’s Uri region, has constructed two new classrooms at his own expense after years of government inaction left the local school building in a dangerously dilapidated state.

      The Government Middle School (Boys) Dudran Boniyar had been in disrepair for several years, posing a constant threat to the safety of its students and staff. Despite repeated appeals by local residents to the education department for the construction of a new building, no action was taken.

      Unable to watch his students suffer any longer, Bilal Ahmad Chak, a local teacher, decided to take matters into his own hands. Using personal savings, he funded and supervised the construction of two new classrooms — which he has now officially handed over for student use.

      “For the past two years, the education department showed no seriousness in addressing the issue,” said Bilal Ahmad. “So I decided to do what I could myself. With the help of God, I managed to complete the construction and dedicate the rooms to the students.”

      The area, Dudran, is a remote and underdeveloped part of the Boniyar sector, where transporting construction materials itself proved to be a major challenge. Despite logistical difficulties, Ahmad persisted in his mission.

      “This region has seen many dedicated teachers before me who have done even more,” he humbly added.

      Local residents have widely praised Bilal Ahmad for his extraordinary initiative, calling him a role model and a true servant of education.

      This story highlights the chronic neglect of rural education infrastructure in Indian-administered Kashmir — a region already grappling with instability and marginalization. It also showcases the quiet heroism of teachers like Bilal Ahmad, who step in where institutions fail.

      Trarkhel: Peace Rally Held by Pro-Independence Alliance Against Violence and Shelling Along LoC

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      Trarkhel: Peace Rally Held by Pro-Independence Alliance Against Violence and Shelling Along LoC

      Trarkhel, Pakistan-administered Jammu & Kashmir —A peace rally and public gathering were organized today in Trarkhel city by the pro-independence alliance in Jammu & Kashmir to protest against ongoing shelling along the Line of Control (LoC), internal unrest, and rising violence across the region.

      Hundreds of participants marched through the main city, carrying white flags as a symbol of peace. The demonstrators called for an end to hostilities along the LoC and demanded the withdrawal of military forces from the region.

      During the rally, participants also raised concerns over the recent deaths of Zarnosh Naseem and Jabran Naseem in an alleged police encounter, demanding an independent judicial inquiry into the incident.

      Read Also: Jammu & Kashmir: Caught in the Crossfire of the Recent India-Pakistan Conflict | LOC News Updates

      Organizers emphasized the urgent need for lasting peace and the protection of civil rights in the disputed region, stating that the voices of local Kashmiris must not be silenced in the face of ongoing militarization and conflict.

      Sonamarg Hosts ‘Kashmir Chalo’ Meeting to Revive Tourism and Promote Peace in the Valley

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      Sonamarg Hosts ‘Kashmir Chalo’ Meeting to Revive Tourism and Promote Peace in the Valley

      Sonamarg, Indian-administered Kashmir — In an encouraging move to restore the region’s tourism prominence, the Jammu and Kashmir Hoteliers Club (JKHC) convened a significant meeting under the banner ‘Kashmir Chalo’ aimed at reviving Sonamarg and the wider Kashmir Valley as a premier tourist destination. The gathering emphasized improving infrastructure and adopting a collective stance against extremism to foster peace and development in the region.

      The session drew participation from key stakeholders in the tourism industry, including tour operators, hotel owners, and community representatives. Attendees united in their commitment to reinforcing the valley’s image as a safe, welcoming, and prosperous destination for visitors.

      Read Also: Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee Strongly Condemns Pahalgam Incident

      Member of Parliament Mian Altaf Ahmed highlighted the government’s renewed focus on tourism policies and ongoing efforts to revitalize the sector. He underlined the government’s dedication to showcasing Kashmir’s natural beauty and peaceful environment on a global platform.

      The meeting also strongly condemned the recent attack in Pahalgam, with participants expressing solidarity with the victims and reaffirming that such acts of violence are unequivocally rejected by the Kashmiri people. They stressed that these isolated incidents will not deter the valley’s peaceful future.

      Mian Altaf described the ‘Kashmir Chalo’ campaign as a positive initiative receiving widespread support from tourism stakeholders nationwide. Speaking to journalists during the discussion organized by JKHC in Sonamarg, he said, “Every possible effort is underway to restore tourists’ confidence in Kashmir and to highlight the valley as a safe and hospitable place.”

      This initiative is seen as a vital step toward rebuilding confidence in Kashmir’s tourism industry while promoting peace and prosperity in the region.

      Calls for Judicial Commission Following Tragic Incidents AJK: JK Joint Awami Action Committee Demands Accountability

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        Calls for Judicial Commission Following Tragic Incidents AJK: JK Joint Awami Action Committee Demands Accountability

        Rawalakot, Pakistan-administered Kashmir: In the wake of a series of tragic incidents in Bagh and Rawalakot, the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Public Action Committee has urgently demanded the formation of a full bench judicial commission by the respected High Court to investigate these events thoroughly. The committee raised serious questions regarding the accountability of authorities and the perpetrators behind the deaths of eight Kashmiris, including civilians and police personnel, from the Sajjad Resham to the tragic incident in Hussain Kot.

        The statement issued by the committee challenges the official narrative, questioning who truly bears responsibility for the killings, labeling them as acts of terrorism. They asked, “Were Zarnoush Naseem and her associates terrorists? Who destroyed the peace of this otherwise peaceful region? Who snatched away beloved fathers from mothers, heirs from sisters, and caring protectors from children?”

        Read Also: Who is Zarnosh Naseem? A Closer Look at the Man at the Centre of the Hussain Kot Police Operation

        The committee’s powerful message also expresses grave concerns over the judicial system in Azad Kashmir, questioning if the rule of law has been abandoned. They ask, “Has the entire legal framework been burned? Who is overseeing the justice and punishment system, while the public remains uninformed? Will Kashmiris continue to be massacred under mere allegations?”

        Highlighting the emotional toll, the committee condemned the silence on these sorrowful and painful tragedies and warned of divine accountability. “To those who guard silence on truth and justice, what will you answer before the Almighty?” they asked.

        Addressing the resilient people of Jammu and Kashmir, the committee called for an end to silence and urged them to bring these issues into the public eye with urgency and determination.

        This demand comes amid rising tensions in the region, with human rights organizations worldwide calling for transparency, justice, and peace in Kashmir. The formation of a judicial commission is seen as a critical step toward addressing the grievances of victims’ families and restoring public trust in governance and law enforcement.

        About Jammu Kashmir Joint Public Action Committee:
        The Jammu Kashmir Joint Public Action Committee is a coalition advocating for the rights, justice, and peace of the Kashmiri people. It actively campaigns against violence and calls for transparency and accountability in the region.

        Elon Musk Resigns from Trump Administration, Ends Role as Head of U.S. Government Efficiency Department

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        Elon Musk Resigns from Trump Administration, Ends Role as Head of U.S. Government Efficiency Department

        Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and owner of social media platform X, has officially stepped down from his advisory role in the Trump administration, marking a significant departure from the government. The world’s richest person quietly resigned from his position as head of the U.S. Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) without informing President Trump, sources within the White House have confirmed.

        Musk had agreed to serve as a special government employee for a fixed term of 130 days, a period that was set to conclude on May 30. However, frustrated with the Trump administration’s direction, Musk ended his involvement two days early, delivering a major blow to the administration.

        Read Also: Kashmiri Waiter in Doha Credits Trump for India-Pakistan Ceasefire: A Personal Perspective Amid Diplomatic Disputes

        Earlier, Musk expressed dissatisfaction with a large government bill recently passed under President Trump’s leadership. He commented that while a bill can be either large or well-crafted, it rarely possesses both qualities simultaneously. Musk was particularly concerned about certain provisions within the legislation, which he believed would increase federal deficits and undermine his department’s efforts to reduce wasteful spending.

        In a statement posted on X, Musk said, “My time as a special government employee has come to an end. I am grateful to President Trump for the opportunity to help reduce unnecessary expenditures. The mission to improve government efficiency will only grow stronger with time.”

        The Trump administration’s recent legislative efforts include tax cuts and stricter immigration laws. Musk criticized the bill for its excessive spending, arguing that it contradicted the objectives of the Department of Government Efficiency.

        According to media reports, the Trump administration has cut approximately 260,000 federal employees, around 12% of the total 2.3 million federal workforce. Musk’s political involvement faced criticism from some investors who urged him to focus more on Tesla. Despite this, Musk has consistently defended his actions at DOGE, acknowledging that he also needs to reduce his political expenditures.

        Upon taking charge of the department, Musk admitted that the federal bureaucracy’s condition was far worse than he had initially anticipated. He likened efforts to improve Washington, D.C. operations to waging a difficult battle.

        It is important to note that Musk served as a special government employee without receiving a salary. White House officials stated that while Musk oversaw DOGE affairs, he was not a formal government employee.

        Despite stepping down, Musk has long been an outspoken supporter of President Trump. At one point, he publicly stated that his admiration for Trump had grown over time, even going as far as to say he loved the president.

        Unlike typical government officials, Musk’s approach has always been unconventional. He was known to bring his young son to the Oval Office on occasion. Once, his son humorously wiped his nose on the Oval Office’s historic Resolute Desk—an act that led to the desk’s immediate replacement by President Trump.

        The Resolute Desk, crafted from English oak salvaged from the HMS Resolute, was gifted to President Rutherford B. Hayes by Queen Victoria in 1880 as a symbol of goodwill and friendship. The desk has been used by many U.S. presidents, including Lyndon B. Johnson, Richard Nixon, and Gerald Ford, and was moved to the Oval Office under President John F. Kennedy in 1961.

        Elon Musk’s resignation marks a key turning point for the Trump administration as it faces ongoing challenges in implementing its agenda and managing internal reforms.

        Passenger Train Derails Near Sargodha, Pakistan; Over 20 Injured

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        Passenger Train Derails Near Sargodha, Pakistan; Over 20 Injured

        Sargodha, Pakistan – A passenger train traveling to Lahore derailed near Sargodha on [date], leaving more than 20 people injured, with at least three to four in critical condition, according to local authorities.

        Details of the Accident

        The train, en route to Lahore, veered off the tracks and overturned in what witnesses described as a chaotic scene. Rescue teams, including railway officials and emergency responders, rushed to the site to evacuate passengers and provide medical assistance. The injured were transported to nearby hospitals, where some remain in serious condition.

        Possible Causes Under Investigation

        Initial reports suggest the derailment may have been caused by either track defects or a technical fault in the train. However, an official investigation is underway to determine the exact cause.

        Growing Concerns Over Railway Safety

        This marks the second major train accident in Pakistan this year, raising renewed concerns over the country’s railway infrastructure and maintenance standards. Public outcry has intensified, with citizens demanding immediate safety upgrades to prevent future tragedies.

        Read Also: Train Services Suspended After Truck Rolls Onto Track in Kashmir’s Qazigund

        Pakistan’s railway system has long faced criticism for aging tracks, outdated equipment, and insufficient safety measures. Critics argue that without significant investment and reforms, such incidents will continue to endanger passengers.

        Authorities Respond

        Railway officials have assured a thorough probe into the incident, while local leaders have called for accountability and urgent infrastructure improvements.

        This is a developing story. Further updates will follow as more information becomes available.

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