PDP’s Waheed Parra Raises Ban on AAC, JKIM in Assembly, Calls for Reversal

Srinagar, Mar 12, KNT: People’s Democratic Party legislator Waheed Parra on Wednesday voiced concerns in the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly over the Centre’s recent ban on Awami Action Committee (AAC) and Jammu and Kashmir Ittihadul Muslimeen (JKIM), urging the House to intervene and seek its reversal.

During a brief intervention, Parra argued that banning these organisations—led by Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and Masroor Abbas Ansari, respectively—amounts to stifling political dissent. He stressed the importance of dialogue and peaceful engagement to address political issues in Jammu and Kashmir rather than resorting to prohibitions.

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) recently outlawed the two groups under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 (UAPA), citing their alleged involvement in activities that threaten India’s sovereignty. The ban, effective for five years, has sparked debate among political circles in the region. [KNT]

Weather Update for Jammu & Kashmir: March 12-21, 2025

Forecast Overview

The Meteorological Centre Srinagar has issued a weather forecast for Jammu and Kashmir, predicting intermittent rain and snow over the coming days. Travelers, farmers, and residents are advised to take necessary precautions. Here’s what to expect:

March 12-15: Wet Conditions Ahead

• Intermittent light to moderate rain is expected at many places.
• Higher reaches may experience snowfall during this period.
• Travelers should be prepared for disruptions due to rain, snow, and slippery roads.

March 16: Gradual Improvement

• Light rain/snow is likely at a few places, especially in the morning.
• Weather is expected to improve in the afternoon.

March 17-21: Mostly Dry Weather

• No significant rainfall or snowfall is expected.
• A gradual rise in temperature may occur as the weather stabilizes.

Advisory ⚠

Due to changing weather conditions, the following precautions are recommended:

For Travelers & Tourists

• Follow traffic and administration advisories before planning travel.
• Be cautious in landslide-prone areas.
• Those visiting higher altitudes should be prepared for cold conditions.

For Farmers

• Suspend all farm operations until March 16 to prevent crop damage.
• Avoid working in waterlogged fields.

For General Safety

• Avoid avalanche-prone slopes in hilly areas.
• Be alert for landslides, mudslides, and shooting stones, especially on vulnerable roads.

Stay Updated

For real-time weather updates, follow the Meteorological Centre Srinagar and local authorities. Stay safe and plan your activities accordingly!

1.35 lakh houses built under PMAY-G in 2 years in J&K: Govt

Srinagar, Mar 12 (KNO): The Jammu and Kashmir government on Wednesday said that 135,925 houses have been constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Grameen Awaas Yojana (PMAY-G) in the last two years.

In response to a question by MLA Arjun Gupta, the minister incharge for the Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, as per news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), said that since the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) 2011 and AwaasPlus database have been completely saturated, there is no separate target for the 2024-25 financial year.

However, the remaining spillover target of 140,021 houses from previous phases will be completed in the current financial year, he said.

He said that 109,412 houses were built in Jammu Division, while 26,513 houses were constructed in Kashmir Division—(KNO)