City News – The Kashmir Horizon

HC directs NMC to expedite KMC inspection; action sought for inclusion of 150 MBBS seats in 2026–27 seat matrix

Mohammad Irfan — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 03:50:08 +0000

Srinagar, October 14: In a significant development favouring Kashmir Medical College and Hospital (KMCH), the High Court of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh has issued firm directions to the National Medical Commission (NMC) to expedite the physical inspection of the institution and submit its compliance report by October 21, 2026.

The proceedings have brought renewed urgency to the long-pending matter concerning the inclusion of 150 MBBS seats of Kashmir Medical College in the 2026–27 seat matrix, with the institution pressing for immediate regulatory action to ensure that its inaugural academic session is not jeopardised by further delays.

Hearing the matter, Justice Mohd Yousuf Wani directed the NMC and its Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB) to make every effort to conduct the inspection early in the week and submit the requisite compliance report within the stipulated deadline.

Kashmir Medical College has maintained that repeated administrative delays, despite substantial compliance with statutory requirements, cannot be allowed to deprive the institution of its legitimate opportunity to commence admissions or deny 150 aspiring medical students an academic year.

The dispute originated from MARB’s June 9, 2026 decision rejecting the college’s application on the grounds that its infrastructure remained under development. The institution challenged the decision, arguing that it had been taken without a physical inspection or the identification of specific deficiencies that could have been addressed in accordance with the applicable statutory framework.

On August 24, 2026, the Second Appellate Authority under the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare remanded the matter to the NMC for reconsideration, observing that the college had substantially complied with statutory requirements, including infrastructure availability and procurement of necessary certificates.

DJMC IUST set to host Film Festival 2026

KH Web Desk — Wed, 14 Oct 2026 03:44:40 +0000

Awantipora, Oct 12: The Department of Journalism and Mass Communication (DJMC), Islamic University of Science and Technology (IUST), is organising the national-level Film Festival 2026 on October 15. The Film Festival shall be held at the Lal Ded Auditorium of the IUST Main Campus.

The film festival shall feature screening of short films and documentaries, panel discussion of experts and also a competition among school, college and university students for the best film awards to be judged by renowned filmmakers and critics. The jury members include Prof. Shahid Rasool, Dean Academic Affairs and Dean of Media School, Central University of Kashmir; Mr. Mir Sarwar, renowned Bollywood actor and director; and Mr. Danish Renzu, renowned filmmaker and Founder, Renzu Films.

More than 20 short films and documentaries have been shortlisted for the competition. Student filmmakers from various colleges and universities from Jammu and Kashmir and other states of India are participating in the festival. Besides, some DJMC Production films shall be screened on the occasion. The festival aims to provide an opportunity to support young creative talent and contribute to the promotion of cinema, arts and culture in the region.

To mention, this initiative follows the success of the 2023 and 2025 editions hosted by DJMC IUST, which witnessed enthusiastic student participation and cross-institutional collaboration across the Valley.

Satish Sharma lays foundation stones for development projects in Chhamb

K H News Service — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 19:13:31 +0000

Jammu | Oct,10:Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs (FS&CA), Information Technology (IT), Youth Services & Sports, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, Saturday laid foundation stones for five important infrastructure projects aimed at strengthening the rural connectivity, improving veterinary healthcare and addressing the developmental needs of local communities.
The projects included construction of road connecting New Mattoo with Old Mattoo, road from Panjtoot to ThangerPattian, a culvert at Kacharial, veterinary hospital at Millan Di-Khui in Panchayat Samwan and link road connecting Bandowala with Upper Pallanwala. The initiatives are aimed at improving the road connectivity, facilitating access to essential services, supporting agricultural and allied activities, and improving the overall quality of life of people in the area.
The Minister said that infrastructure development remains a key priority, with emphasis on projects that directly address the day-to-day concerns of people and strengthen the foundations of rural development. He said that well-connected villages, accessible healthcare facilities and dependable public infrastructure are essential for balanced regional growth and the economic well-being of rural communities.
Laying the foundation stone for the road connecting New Mattoo with Old Mattoo, Satish Sharma emphasised the importance of strengthening internal road networks to facilitate smoother movement and improve connectivity between adjoining habitations. The project is expected to make daily commuting more convenient for the residents and improve access to educational institutions, healthcare facilities, markets and other essential services.
The Minister also laid the foundation stone for road from Panjtoot to ThangerPattian. He said that better road connectivity helps farmers transport agricultural produce, facilitates the movement of people and goods, and contributes to the overall socio-economic development of rural areas.
Emphasising the need to ensure that development reaches every habitation, Satish Sharma observed that roads are vital links between communities and opportunities. He said that sustained investment in rural connectivity would help address the local infrastructure gaps, reduce difficulties faced by residents and strengthen the region’s development potential.
While laying foundation stone for the culvert at Kacharial, the Minister underscored the importance of strengthening the local infrastructure to ensure safer and smoother movement. The construction of the culvert is expected to improve accessibility and facilitate the movement of residents and commuters, particularly during adverse weather conditions. He stressed that such infrastructure interventions play an important role in improving the public convenience and ensuring more reliable connectivity.
The Minister also laid the foundation stone for a veterinary hospital at Millan Di-Khui in Panchayat Samwan, highlighting the importance of accessible animal healthcare services for farmers and livestock owners. The proposed facility is expected to strengthen veterinary healthcare infrastructure in the area, facilitate timely treatment of livestock and provide improved support to families dependent on animal husbandry for their livelihoods.
The Minister laid the foundation stone for construction of a link road from Bandowala to Upper Pallanwala, aimed at improving connectivity and facilitating the movement of people and goods. The project is expected to make daily travel more convenient for residents and strengthen access to markets, educational institutions, healthcare facilities and other public services, while also supporting local economic activity.
The Minister stressed the importance of timely execution, quality construction and effective monitoring of all development works. He called upon the concerned departments and executing agencies to ensure adherence to prescribed technical standards and completion within stipulated timelines so that the intended benefits reach the public without unnecessary delay.
Satish Sharma reiterated that sustained efforts would continue to be made to address the developmental priorities of Chhamb and adjoining areas, ensuring that infrastructure projects translate into tangible benefits for residents and contribute to the region’s long-term progress.

J&K Prosecution Department secures dismissal of bail of 3 accused persons in Chatroo case

K H News Service — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 19:11:28 +0000

Jammu | Oct,10:The Prosecution Department, J&K, Saturday commended its Public Prosecutors, whose firm and well-reasoned opposition resulted in the rejection of four bail applications on 8 and 10 October 2026: three under the BNS, POCSO & SC/ST Act and one under BNS & POCSO Act.
On October 10, 2026, the Principal Sessions Judge, Kishtwar Sh. Sudhir Kumar Khajuria, dismissed the bail applications of Sonika Parihar, Zareena Begum and Peer Baksh Bumal in the Chatroo case (FIR No. 27/2026, PS SCW Crime Branch, Jammu), concerning the death of a minor girl and offences under Section 61(2), 65 (1), 90, 91, 92 BNS 2023 and 4,6,8,10,17 POCSO Act 2012 and 3(1) (w) (i), 3(2) V and 3(2) (V) (a) SC & ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act 1989.
The Ld. Public Prosecutor Mr. Anshuman Dubay, assisted by Mr. Irfan Khan, Advocate for the victim, filed detailed objections and argued all three applications with meticulous preparation. They stressed the gravity of the allegations, punishment extending to life imprisonment, and the ongoing investigation, with DNA/FSL reports awaited. They highlighted the real apprehension of witnesses being influenced. The Prosecution also raised crucial legal points, such as, the requirement of notice to the victim’s family under Section 40 of the POCSO Act and Rule 4, and non-compliance with disclosure requirements under the High Court notification and the Supreme Court’s judgment in Zeba Khan v. State of UP. The Medical grounds were rebutted by showing that the appropriate care is available in custody and applying settled Supreme Court principles, the Court held that the investigation is still continuing and the stage did not warrant minute scrutiny of evidence. It is observed that one applicant’s ailments appeared age-related, not life-threatening, and dismissed the applications.
In another matter, On 08 October 2026, the Principal Sessions Judge, Budgam Sh. O.P. Bhagat, rejected the bail application of Bilal Ahmad Bhat in FIR No. 75/2026 (P/S Beerwah) under Section 137(2) BNS and Sections 3/4 of the POCSO Act. Ld. Public Prosecutor Sh. Suhaib Ashraf filed detailed objections, stressing the gravity of the allegations and the risk of evidence tampering. The Court held that public interest and the interest of the victim’s family outweighed personal liberty, and that delay in recording witness statements is no ground for bail in POCSO cases.
The Department commended again the dedication of its Public Prosecutors and reaffirmed its commitment to justice for victims, child protection and fair, evidence-based Prosecution.

Srinagar District Admin bids affectionate farewell to outgoing SDM West Irfan Bahadur

K H News Service — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 19:11:08 +0000

Srinagar | Oct,10:The District Administration Srinagar on Saturday organized a farewell function at Meeting Hall of the DC Office Complex to bid a warm farewell to the outgoing Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM) West, Irfan Bahadur, who has been transferred and posted as Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Budgam.
On the occasion, Seerat Baji, who assumed the charge of Sub-Divisional Magistrate (West) was also accorded a warm welcome by the Officers and other Staff of the District Administration.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, AkshayLabroo, presided over the function.
Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mir Imtiyaz Ul Aziz, Additional Deputy Commissioner, Aadil Fareed, Chief Planning Officer, Fayaz Ahmad Dar, SDM East Zubair Ahmad, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Umar Gulzar, All Tehsildars other Senior Officers and Officials of the District Administration Srinagar attended the function and appreciated the contributions made by outgoing SDM West, Irfan Bahadur during his tenure.
Speaking on the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner extended his best wishes to the outgoing SDM for his new assignment and future endeavours in public service. He lauded his dedicated services, professionalism and valuable contribution to the District’s Revenue sector, particularly in digitization of Revenue records.
The DC also appreciated his role in ensuring the effective implementation of various public welfare initiatives within his jurisdiction. Other Officers and Officials present on the occasion also conveyed their best wishes to the outgoing SDM, expressing confidence that he would continue to make valuable contributions in his new assignment.
The outgoing SDM, in his address, expressed his gratitude to the Officers and Officials of the District Administration Srinagar for their active support and cooperation during his tenure as SDM West.
During the event, the District Administration Srinagar extended a warm welcome to SeeratBaji on her appointment as Sub-Divisional Magistrate (West), Srinagar, and conveyed its best wishes for her new assignment.

LG extends Navratri greetings

K H News Service — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 19:10:34 +0000

Srinagar | Oct,10:Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha has extended his heartiest greetings to the people on the eve of Navratri, which commences tomorrow, October 11, 2026.
In a message, the Lieutenant Governor said: “Greetings and warm wishes to everyone on the auspicious occasion of Navratri. As the nine sacred days of prayers of Maa Durga begin, we celebrate the eternal triumph of truth, righteousness and virtue over evil.
May Goddess Durga shower her divine blessings upon every family, bestowing good health, happiness and prosperity.”

Mission Shakti organises seminar on Mental Well-being at GDC Jourian

K H News Service — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 19:09:52 +0000

Jammu | Oct,10:Marking World Mental Health Day, Mission Shakti, District Hub for Empowerment of Women (DHEW) Jammu Saturday organised a seminar on mental well-being at Government Degree College (GDC) Jourian to promote emotional resilience, psychological awareness and a supportive environment among students.
The session highlighted that mental well-being is fundamental to a balanced and fulfilling life. Students were sensitised to recognising emotional distress, overcoming the stigma surrounding mental health and seeking timely support when needed.
Professor Higher Education Department Dr.Ambica Sharma, serving as the resource person, delivered an insightful session on mental health, stress management, emotional regulation and maintaining a healthy balance between academic responsibilities and personal well-being. She emphasised that acknowledging emotions and seeking help are signs of strength, not weakness.
The programme was conducted under the supervision of the College Principal Dr. Anuradha Pandoh and guidance of District Mission Coordinator Mission Shakti Shagun Manchanda. Professor Sheetal, Professor Suresh and Gender Specialist Khushboo Kapte of DHEW Jammu played an instrumental role in organising the programme and facilitating meaningful interaction with students.
The session encouraged students to practise self-care, build positive relationships, communicate openly and demonstrate empathy towards individuals experiencing emotional challenges. It reinforced the message that a mentally healthy society begins with informed individuals, supportive institutions and compassionate communities.Through this initiative, Mission Shakti reaffirmed its commitment to holistic empowerment, recognizing mental well-being as a vital pillar of individual dignity, gender equality and social progress.

SMC bids Farewell to Commissioner Fazl Ul Haseeb

K H News Service — Sat, 10 Oct 2026 18:51:21 +0000

Anantnag | Oct,10:Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) accorded a warm farewell to Commissioner, FazLul Haseeb, in recognition of his dedicated service, exemplary professionalism, and valuable contributions to the Corporation.

During his tenure, Haseeb made significant contributions to strengthening civic administration, improving municipal services, and advancing initiatives aimed at enhancing urban infrastructure and the overall quality of life in Srinagar. His effective leadership, professional approach, and unwavering commitment to public service were widely appreciated by his colleagues and officers of the Corporation.
The farewell ceremony, held at the SMC Headquarters, was attended by Joint Commissioner, Administration, Nuzhat Qureshi; Joint Commissioner Suhail Ul Islam; Joint Commissioner, Works, Hamid Iqbal Mir; Secretary SMC, Tahir Ahmad; Health Officer, Dr. Fauzia Habib; SE, City Drainage Circle, Sajad Ahmad Kawoosa, and other senior officers of the Corporation.
On the occasion, the officers shared their views and expressed their appreciation for Haseeb’s leadership, administrative guidance, and valuable contributions to the functioning of the Corporation. They acknowledged his commitment to public service and highlighted the initiatives undertaken during his tenure to strengthen municipal governance, enhance civic infrastructure, and improve service delivery.
Addressing the gathering, Haseeb expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to serve the Corporation and acknowledged the cooperation and support extended by the officers and staff during his tenure. He expressed confidence that the Srinagar Municipal Corporation would continue to make progress in fulfilling its mandate of delivering efficient civic services, strengthening urban governance, and ensuring better civic amenities for the citizens of Srinagar. The Srinagar Municipal Corporation placed on record its sincere appreciation for the contributions and services rendered by FazLul Haseeb, and extended its best wishes for success in his future assignments.

Satish Sharma meets delegations, exhorts departments to address public issues on priority

K H News Service — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 19:00:16 +0000

Srinagar| Sept, 28:Minister for FCS&CA, IT, Youth Services and Sports, Science and Technology, Satish Sharma, Monday held a series of meetings with various delegations, during which issues concerning youth, sports, transport, food and public distribution, information technology, science and technology, employment and public services were raised.
The delegations, representing different groups, associations and sections of the public, apprised the Minister of their specific issues and sought his intervention for resolution of the same.
During the interactions, the representatives highlighted concerns related to sports infrastructure and facilities, opportunities for youth, employment and livelihood avenues, transport services, delivery of public services and other matters requiring government attention.
While responding to the issues raised by the delegations, the Minister assured them that all their genuine concerns would be examined on priority and appropriate action would be taken to sort out the same.
The Minister directed the concerned officers to examine the issues falling within their respective jurisdictions and take necessary action wherever required.
Issues concerning youth development and sports figured prominently during the interactions.
The Minister reiterated the Government’s focus on providing young people with better opportunities to participate in sports, develop their skills and pursue avenues for employment and entrepreneurship. He emphasised that strengthening sports infrastructure, improving access to sporting facilities and supporting emerging talent are important components of youth empowerment.
Several issues relating to transport facilities and public service delivery were also brought before the Minister.
Satish Sharma directed the concerned authorities to examine the matters raised by the delegations and ensure that issues within the departmental framework are processed appropriately.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of Information Technology and Science & Technology in improving the governance, enhancing service delivery and creating new opportunities for the younger generation. He said that technology-driven solutions can help make government services more accessible, efficient and transparent, while also opening new avenues for innovation, entrepreneurship and employment.
He maintained that his departments would continue to engage with the stakeholders and work towards strengthening youth-oriented initiatives, sports infrastructure, transport services, public distribution and consumer-related services, technology-driven governance and scientific innovations.

DC Srinagar chairs District Road Safety Committee meeting

K H News Service — Mon, 28 Sep 2026 18:59:49 +0000

Srinagar| Sept, 28:Deputy Commissioner (DC) Srinagar, AkshayLabrooMonday chaired a meeting of the District Road Safety Committee here at the Meeting Hall of the DC Office Complex to review the road safety scenario in the District.
The DC assessed measures being taken by various Departments for prevention of road accidents and ensuring safer mobility for commuters and pedestrians, besides improving assistance to accident victims.
At the outset, the Deputy Commissioner held detailed discussions on road safety concerns requiring immediate attention, measures to improve roads and allied safety infrastructure, corrective measures for identified accident-prone black spots and pedestrian safety, besides timely emergency medical response, post-crash care and expeditious settlement of assistance and compensation claims for road accident victims, with the objective of reducing road accidents and fatalities and ensuring safer road conditions for all road users.
On the occasion, the DC emphasised the need for greater outreach to road accident victims and their families so that eligible victims can avail the assistance available under the PM Rahat (Road Accident Victim Hospitalization and Assured Treatment) Scheme under which, every eligible road accident victim on any category of road will be entitled to cashless treatment up to Rs 1.5 lakh
per victim, for period of seven days from the date of accident. He directed the concerned ARTO to ensure that information regarding the scheme reaches accident victims and eligible beneficiaries in a timely manner.
The DC also stressed the need for effective inter-departmental coordination among all concerned agencies to strengthen road safety measures and ensure timely implementation of necessary corrective interventions to minimise the risk of road accidents.
During the meeting, the DC also directed the R&B Department to draft a comprehensive Road Safety Plan under District road Safety Fund incorporating corrective measures for identified black spots, pedestrian safety engineering interventions and other necessary road safety measures.
The DC also stressed the importance of effective implementation of the Integrated Road Accident Database (IRAD) and directed the concerned agencies to ensure timely and accurate reporting of road accidents through the system. He underscored that reliable accident data is essential for identifying accident-prone locations and planning evidence-based corrective measures.
The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Mir Imtiyaz Ul Aziz, IAS Probationer, Sai Kiran, Chief Planning officer, Fayaz Ahmad Dar, Superintending Engineer of R&B(North), Shabir Ahmad, Superintending Engineer of R&B (South), Tatheer Manzoor, Joint Commissioner, Hamid Iqbal Mir, Chief Education Officer, Ghulam MohiUd Din, Executive Engineer R&B, Abdul Qayoon, Executive Engineer R&B, Khalid Mehmood, District Health Officer, Dr Rubeena, ARTO, Showkat Ahmad, District Informatics Officer, Shahnaz, Accounts Officer, DC Office, Mohammad Iqbal and other Officers of concerned Departments.