STATEHOOD
Sonam Wangchuk appeals to President Murmu, alleges smear campaign by Ladakh administration
Sonam Wangchuk has expressed concerns to President Droupadi Murmu regarding administrative actions affecting critics in Ladakh. He alleges that a smear campaign is being orchestrated by the Lieutenant Governor's administration against him and others. The appeal follows the cancellation of the land lease for the Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh, which he co-founded.
Farooq Abdullah dismisses NC rift reports as ‘baseless rumours’ after meeting with dissident MLAs
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah has rejected reports of a split in the ruling party after meeting Chief Minister Omar Abdullah and MLAs who had raised concerns over its functioning. He said the leadership had heard their grievances and would take steps to strengthen the party and the government.
Flanked by 'dissident MLAs,' Farooq Abdullah says no rift within National Conference
National Conference president Farooq Abdullah emphasised party unity following a meeting with disgruntled MLAs. The meeting aimed to address concerns regarding the recent cabinet expansion and party organization. Abdullah stated that the concerns of the legislators were genuine and would be taken into consideration. Assurance was given to address some issues immediately while others would be resolved gradually.
Washington's next chapter: A democratic socialist mayor and a looming Trump showdown
Janeese Lewis George won the recent mayoral election and will take office on January 2. She will face significant challenges, including local governance issues and financial difficulties. After a period of job losses, the city anticipates potential revenue drops, prompting tax consideration discussions. Lewis George emphasizes addressing the city's affordability crisis amid Trump's ongoing influence. She has a unique opportunity to reshape policies within the city's limited autonomy.
National Conference MLAs suggest 10 corrective measures to CM Omar Abdullah for accountability within the party
Eighteen ruling National Conference MLAs have submitted a 10-point memorandum to Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, seeking corrective measures, a review of ministerial performance and the removal of his advisor Nasir Aslam Wani. The memorandum, prepared after a meeting of disgruntled MLAs on October 30, also seeks the removal of Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary from the Public Works portfolio.
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Mirwaiz Umar Farooq calls for dialogue, justice, reconciliation, hails International Crisis Group report on Jammu and Kashmir
Mirwaiz Umar Farooq emphasized the need for civil liberties and reconciliation in Jammu and Kashmir. He pointed out that while violence has decreased, political grievances remain unaddressed. Farooq urged the release of political prisoners and meaningful government engagement. He called attention to alarming figures related to arrests and detentions since 2019 and their impact. The report advocates for restoring statehood and dialogue between India and Pakistan to build trust.
'51st state': Trump pitches Venezuela as next US state, says it has 'a lot of oil'
US President Donald Trump has suggested that Venezuela could become the 51st US state, citing growing ties between Washington and Caracas and increased cooperation over oil supplies. Speaking at a rally in Texas, Trump announced the arrival of the first 1 million barrels of Venezuelan oil secured under an agreement and said the shipment would be refined locally. He also suggested that Venezuela could eventually elect a governor instead of a president.
Omar Abdullah expands J-K cabinet, inducts four new ministers
On Tuesday, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah expanded his council by swearing in four new ministers. The new ministers include Ali Mohammad Sagar, Mir Saifullah, Shameema Firdous, and Altaf Ahmad Wani. Sagar, a seven-time MLA, has consistently won elections since his first in 1983. Firdous is the second woman to join the Abdullah-led council, enhancing representation.
Apologise or go to Pakistan: Protests erupt in Jammu over Farooq Abdullah's remark
Farooq Abdullah's recent comments in Baramulla regarding Pakistan protecting Kashmiris have incited protests across Jammu. Various organizations, including BJP groups, demanded his immediate apology, stating his remarks were anti-national. Several political leaders, including BJP's Sat Sharma, called for legal action against Abdullah for his statements. Concerns were raised about national security and the implications of his words on sovereignty.
J&K Cong distances itself from Farooq's Pak remarks; Kashmiri Pandit groups file complaint
The J&K Congress has distanced itself from Farooq Abdullah's remarks regarding Pakistan's involvement in Kashmir. This comes as some groups have filed a police complaint against him for these comments. Abdullah's statements reflect frustrations regarding the restoration of statehood in Jammu and Kashmir. BJP leaders criticized his reliance on Pakistan narratives while highlighting local issues facing the region.
Farooq Abdullah says Pakistan is ‘protecting’ Kashmiris, sparks BJP backlash
National Conference chief Farooq Abdullah stated that Pakistan's advocacy for Kashmir is a form of protection. He criticized the intentions of the Indian government towards Jammu and Kashmir. BJP leaders condemned Abdullah's remarks, labeling them as treasonous and anti-national. Congress leaders disagreed with Abdullah’s views but expressed concerns about the political situation in the region. Abdullah also raised issues regarding a mandatory service requirement for medical students, highlighting bureaucratic delays.
Five appeals, 15 visits, 30 calls: Sonam Wangchuk cites administrative delays in execution of HIAL land lease
Sonam Wangchuk has blamed administrative delays for the failure to execute a lease deed for land allotted to his Himalayan Institute of Alternatives, Ladakh (HIAL), citing a February 2021 letter from the Ladakh administration that said the process was pending a new lease policy. Wangchuk said he made five written appeals, 15 visits and 30 phone calls seeking the deed.
Sonam Wangchuk accuses Centre of going back on May understanding, reiterates demand for Ladakh legislature
The May 22 meeting had raised hopes of a democratic framework for Ladakh, Wangchuk said. The representatives had initially sought statehood but, after being told that the region lacked the resources for it, proposed a Union Territory with a legislature and constitutional safeguards, he added.
Beyond the ballot: Why Israel's next leader may stick to Netanyahu's doctrine
Israel's upcoming election is unlikely to change its aggressive stance towards Iran and Palestinian statehood. Even if Benjamin Netanyahu retains power, he may escalate military actions and settlement expansions. The election reflects a broader trend of hardline politics, where consensus exists against Palestinian statehood. Regional policymakers expect continued confrontations while underlying issues remain unaddressed. The situation may lead to prolonged tensions in the Middle East with unresolved conflicts persisting.
Trump says Saudi Arabia should accept Israel's "helpful" offer against Houthis
US President Donald Trump has urged Saudi Arabia to accept Israel's offer of help against Houthi rebels, calling Israeli support "very helpful". Trump also said Saudi Arabia could join the Abraham Accords, as regional hostilities intensify, Iran denies involvement in Houthi attacks, and Yemen's government reports missile strikes near Aden International Airport.
Ladakh is not part of China which is our spritual enemy as well: Apex Body Leh
Representatives from Ladakh condemned a recent statement by China claiming the region as part of its territory. They emphasized that Ladakh has never been part of China in recorded history. During a press conference, concerns were raised about the necessity of Indian governmental response to the Chinese assertion. The people of Ladakh expressed their support for the Indian armed forces during conflicts with China.
J&K deputy chief minister Surinder Choudhary says chief election commissioner Gyanesh Kumar should resign
Jammu and Kashmir Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Choudhary demanded the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar. He accused the government of meeting protestors with brute force and pointed to the Constitutional rights to freedom of speech and protest. Choudhary also raised concerns on youth unemployment and opposed the Waqf Board’s proposed standardised themes for Friday sermons.
Israel’s opposition wants Netanyahu out. Its leaders’ positions on Palestine reveal the limits of a political shake-up
Four opposition parties in Israel are collaborating to remove Benjamin Netanyahu from power in the upcoming election. While they agree on ousting Netanyahu, their commitment to alter policies regarding Palestinians is uncertain. Notably, key leaders within the alliance maintain strict positions against Palestinian statehood and support for settlements. The potential shift in government may not lead to significant changes in the treatment of Palestinians.
Britain likely to expel Israeli diplomats if Jerusalem consulate closes, sources say
Britain could expel Israeli diplomats if Israel follows through on its order to shut the British consulate in East Jerusalem this week, according to sources cited by Reuters. The dispute stems from Britain’s planned ban on trade in goods from Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, with the consulate’s 30-day closure deadline ending on Thursday.
India can launch surgical strikes on Pakistan, but can't hold talks: Mani Shankar Aiyar
Mani Shankar Aiyar criticised the BJP-led government for avoiding dialogue with Pakistan despite military actions taken. He proposed holding discussions at the Attari-Wagah border to facilitate continuous communication between both nations. Aiyar emphasised the importance of addressing unresolved issues through dialogue rather than arguing about the past. He highlighted the need for political unity among non-Hindutva factions to influence Delhi's policies.
Rs 113 crore collected from job aspirants in Jammu and Kashmir, PDP MLA calls it earning from miseries of unemployed youth
In Jammy and Kashmir, two primary recruiment agencies collected more than ₹ 113 crore as application fees from job aspirants. The Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) and J&K Services Selection Board (JKSSB) have conducted 369 recruitment examinations for 15,964 advertised posts. Howeverm the actual number of roles filled in the last two years have been low, raising concerns about the transparency of the process.
Jammu and Kashmir government notifies Electric Vehicle Policy 2026
The Jammu and Kashmir government notified the Electric Vehicle Policy 2026 after its approval by the council of ministers chaired by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The policy has set a six-year roadmap to expand sustainable electric mobility across the state, which also caters to its geography and climate. It targets 1.40 lakh electric vehicles by 2032. The policy also brings in infrastructure and regulatory enhancements.
J&K parties seek action against Chief, Law Secretaries over statehood resolution
Political factions in Jammu and Kashmir, excluding the BJP, are calling for the dismissal of two senior bureaucrats who opposed a statehood resolution from Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. This intervention has raised alarms about the bureaucrats potentially exceeding their mandate in legislative affairs, prompting the presiding officer to remind that their views aren't obligatory for the assembly. BJP lawmakers have countered, branding the statehood measure as unconstitutional and illegal.
NCM 2.0 launched with Rs 767 cr outlay to protect India’s coasts
Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav launched guidelines for the National Coastal Mission 2.0 on Wednesday. The mission aims to enhance conservation and management of coastal and marine ecosystems across India. It has an approved outlay of Rs 767 crore for the period from 2025-26 to 2030-31. This phase also promotes a streamlined implementation framework for better ease of doing business.
J&K Assembly passes statehood resolution amid BJP protests, walkout
The resolution was moved by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Friday last week and was passed on Monday after several legislators including from the ruling National Conference who spoke about the resolution and had brought amendments to include direct mention of Article 370, 35 (A), state flag, pre-1953 position and special status of J&K.
J&K Assembly passes resolution demanding urgent restoration of full statehood
Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly recently passed a resolution demanding the immediate restoration of full statehood. The resolution was moved by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah during a heated session in the Assembly. Opposition members from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) staged a walkout and caused disruptions. Four BJP MLAs were subsequently marshalled out due to creating a ruckus in the House.
Ladakh awaits truth, justice and accountability: Sonam Wangchuk
Wangchuk, who is part of the Apex Body Leh (ABL) which, along with the Kargil Democratic Alliance (KDA), is fighting for statehood and Ladakh's inclusion in the Sixth Schedule, said the judicial inquiry report has not been made public yet and the meagre compensation of ?15 lakh for the families of those killed is "painfully inadequate" and should be raised to a "dignified" amount.
Ruckus in Assembly after CM Abdullah moves resolution for full J&K statehood
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah moved a resolution in the assembly for statehood restoration. The resolution recalled earlier promises from the Prime Minister regarding the state's status. Opposition BJP members protested against the autonomy resolution and disrupted the assembly proceedings. They tore the resolution and raised slogans questioning the NC government's actions. The assembly was adjourned for at least 30 minutes due to the disruptions.
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