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Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today chaired a high-level meeting at the Civil Secretariat to review and finalize arrangements for the upcoming holy month of Muharram, an official press release informed.

It said the meeting was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Surinder Kumar Choudhary; Ministers Sakeena Itoo, Javed Ahmed Rana, Javed Ahmad Dar, and Satish Sharma; Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani; Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo; Additional Chief Secretary to the Chief Minister Dheeraj Gupta; administrative secretaries; the Inspector General of Police Kashmir; Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Deputy Commissioners of Srinagar, Budgam, Baramulla and Jammu; Members of the Legislative Assembly; senior officers from line departments; prominent heads of Shia and religious organizations; and other concerned officials.

Officers from outside stations attended the meeting through video conference.

In his address, the Chief Minister reiterated the government’s unwavering commitment to ensure that all arrangements for Muharram are made with utmost efficiency and care.

“We will leave no stone unturned in our efforts, and there should be no shortcoming from our side,” the Chief Minister asserted.

Highlighting the significance of the meeting, he remarked:“The very size and composition of this meeting reflects the importance we attach to the sacred month of Muharram.”

The Chief Minister emphasized that administrative focus should not be limited to just the first ten days of Muharram.

“The rituals and religious observances of Muharram span two months and eight days. The government must remain responsive even beyond the 10th day of Muharram,” he stressed.

Acknowledging that this year Muharram coincides with the Amarnath Yatra, the Chief Minister noted the increased responsibility on the administration to ensure the smooth conduct of both events. In this context, he announced the appointment of a Secretary-level Nodal Officer—independent of the Divisional Commissioner—to coordinate inter-departmental efforts and oversee Muharram arrangements across the Union Territory.

The Chief Minister outlined key focus areas identified during the meeting:

Water Supply: CM assured uninterrupted water availability through the deployment of tankers and installation of storage tanks at key locations.

Electricity and Lighting: The Power Development Department was directed to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply and install high-mast lights at major congregation points.

Ration and Firewood: He instructed the Food Department, in coordination with FCI, to ensure timely availability of ration. Firewood will be provided, particularly in rural areas where demand is higher.

Sanitation and Health: Municipal bodies and the Health Department were asked to intensify sanitation drives and ensure the availability of essential healthcare services: Fire and Emergency Services will use high-pressure water canons to clean congregation areas.

The Chief Minister added that the newly appointed Nodal Officer will coordinate efforts across departments and districts, and report regularly to avoid any lapses.

Earlier, the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir gave a presentation on the planned arrangements for Muharram, covering key areas such as power, water, ration supply, sanitation, and infrastructure readiness in Shia-dominated areas.

The meeting also deliberated on issues related to macadamisation, street lighting, road repair, and other civic amenities required during the observance. Legislators and religious leaders present on the occasion provided valuable feedback and suggestions to enhance the effectiveness of the arrangements.

Srinagar: That the investigating officer has remained lackadaisical in investigation of the case cannot be a sole ground for release of the accused on bail, a city court ruled Wednesday as it rejected the bail applications of two brothers accused of defrauding gullible citizens by luring them through attractive advertisements to purchase land.

Aadil Mushtaq Ahmad, Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Srinagar while rejecting the bail application of brothers — Sheikh Ghulam Jeelani and Sheikh Showkat Ahmad, sons of Sheikh Ghulam Qadir of Malla Bagh, Ellahi Bagh, Srinagar — said it is no one’s case before the court that the complainants have not been duped and defrauded to part with their hard earned money for purchase of land.

“It appears to be a multi-million scam, where honest purchasers have been lured by shiny advertisements to purchase land,” he said.

The accused submitted that their only sin is that they are the sons of Sheikh Ghulam Qadir and have no contact with their father, who is living with his wife separately.

Records indicate that in terms of an order dated 05.06.2025 passed by Additional Sessions Judge, the accused and their parents after clutching a hefty amount from a considerable number of persons closed their offices, and resorted to cheating and fraud.

Multiple complaints by Ghulam Jeelani Chesti, Mst Tajali, Mst Naireen Iqbal, Mst Bilquis Assad and others allege that they have been duped and defrauded by the bail-seeking Sheikhs and other accused.

The land-owners who were intending to sell their lands to the land-brokers also stated during the investigation against the accused to have been defrauded.

“Mere fact that the aforesaid persons are not the directors or/and have no mention in the Articles of Association of Teramount company will not ipso facto exonerate them from the misdoing done under the banner of aforesaid company, if otherwise they had played role in defrauding the complainants”, said the court.

The allegations against the accused are heinous and need to be investigated properly as public money is involved in the matter, it said.

Magistrate Aadil Mushtaq recorded “merely the investigating officer has remained lackadaisical in investigation of the case, cannot be a sole ground for release of the accused on bail”.

He held that economic offences constitute a class apart and need to be visited with a different approach in the matter of bail. The economic offence having deep rooted conspiracies and involving huge loss of public funds need to be viewed seriously and considered as grave offences affecting the economy of the country as a whole and thereby posing serious threat to the financial health of the country.

Socio-economic offences or the white-collar crimes, according to the court, are conceived out of sheer covetousness, ravenousness, or whims and are smooth and non-violent in character. The shortfall of terribleness, power or viciousness gives the overall population a feeling that these violations are of lesser gravity as compared to the other societal crimes like murder or assault.

It is possible that in a given situation, the collective interest of the community may outweigh the right of personal liberty of the individual concerned. Liberty is to be secured through the process of law, which is administered keeping in mind the interest of the accused, the victim and the society at large, it added.

It said that there are other cases of similar nature pending against present applicants (Sheikhs) and other accused and that too is a considering factor for the court to refuse the discretion against the applicants.

The general public, it noted, will lose its confidence which it has reposed in the court of law. The offence has been committed against the State and society. While applying the aforesaid settled principles for grant of bail to the facts and circumstances of the present case, I am of the opinion that the accused does not deserve bail at this stage.

The court concluded that an attempt has been made to deceive people and distort the faith of the public in the criminal justice system which otherwise prompts me to refuse to exercise discretion for granting bail in favour of the accused.

Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday interacted with a delegation of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) and acknowledged their efforts in promoting the Union Territory as a premier tourist destination.

The tour operators appealed to their members to promote Jammu and Kashmir as a premier travel destination.

“We are very grateful to the IATO for coming here and organising this visit, because trust works both ways. Your presence assures us that we are on the right path,” Abdullah told the IATO delegation.

Referring to the tragic incident earlier this year, the chief minister said, “To call it unfortunate would be an understatement. It impacted not just 26 families directly but also affected the confidence of many more. Just when the season had begun to look promising, the downturn by mid-June was quite telling.”

A terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22 left 26 people, mostly tourists, dead.

Highlighting the resilience of the tourism sector, Omar Abdullah expressed optimism about the revival.

“Since the 2022 season, we’ve seen a surge in tourist vehicles. It was encouraging to see Srinagar bustling with activity, taxis with luggage on rooftops heading to Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and beyond.”

He stressed that the goal is not to have tourists visit Kashmir just once.

“We want them to return again and again. That’s why your feedback is essential for improving the experience, enhancing infrastructure and expanding the adventure tourism potential,” he said.

Touching on the progress of developing nine new destinations, the chief minister said the government is working closely with the Centre to develop and operationalise them.

“Destinations across Jammu and Kashmir hold immense tourism potential, and both regions will be equally promoted,” he said.

On infrastructure and connectivity, the chief minister noted the popularity of the new train services to Kashmir and promised to take up the issue of capacity constraints with the Ministry of Railways.

“The demand is growing, and we will explore increasing train length and frequency,” he said.

He also underscored the importance of reopening destinations that were temporarily shut following the Pahalgam incident.

“We have begun this process. It’s a matter of restoring confidence — for tourists and for ourselves,” he asserted.

The chief minister expressed his gratitude to the visiting delegation and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to elevating Kashmir’s tourism potential through partnership, innovation and sustained promotional efforts.

In a press release, the IATO lauded the steps taken by the Union Territory government to promote tourism.

“The government of Jammu and Kashmir, particularly the Department of Tourism, has taken commendable steps to upgrade infrastructure, improve accessibility, enhance security, and provide a tourist-friendly environment.

“The presence of dedicated tourism officers, trained police personnel, and round-the-clock support systems instils a sense of security and comfort for every traveller,” the IATO said.

The IATO appealed to all its members, and the larger travel fraternity in the country and abroad, to confidently promote Jammu and Kashmir as a premier tourist destination.

“We assure travellers that Kashmir is open, vibrant, and ready to host them. The valley, in all its natural splendour, is offering not just scenic beauty but a rejuvenating and secure holiday experience,” it said.

It urged the media and travel influencers to share the positive developments and support this effort in rebuilding trust and dispelling unfounded apprehensions.

The IATO further said its delegation witnessed first-hand the peaceful and welcoming atmosphere prevailing across all the locations they visited.

“Pahalgam, Srinagar and surrounding areas are absolutely safe for tourists. The hospitality, warmth, and readiness of the local tourism industry are clearly visible.

“We were heartened to see that both government authorities and private stakeholders are working together seamlessly to ensure the safety, comfort and memorable experiences of all visitors,” it said.

Parks at some tourist destinations, including in Pahalgam, reopened

Several parks in Jammu and Kashmir’s tourist places, including some in Pahalgam, that were closed in the aftermath of the April 22 terror attack were reopened on Tuesday, officials said.

The reopening of the parks has been welcomed by the tourists and local visitors alike who thronged the parks at several places.

Security personnel were deployed in strength around the parks to secure the areas and create a sense of security, they said.

Twenty-six people, most of them tourists, were killed by terrorists in Baisaran meadows in Pahalgam, a popular tourist spot.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday ordered the reopening of 16 parks — eight each in Jammu region and Kashmir Valley. He said the destinations would be reopened in a phased manner.

In the first phase, eight parks were reopened in the Kashmir valley.

Betaab Valley in Pahalgam and the parks near Pahalgam market, Verinag, Kokernag and Achabal gardens in Anantnag district, Badamwari Park, Duck Park near Nigeen, and Taqdeer Park near Hazratbal in Srinagar were reopened on Tuesday.

Similarly, eight destinations were reopened in Jammu region as well including Sarthal and Dhaggar in Kathua, Devipindi, Siyad Baba and Sula Park in Reasi, Guldanda and Jai Valley in Doda, and Pancheri in Udhampur.

A large number of school children welcomed the tourists at Verinag — a famous park in south Kashmir’s Anantnag, the officials said.

“We were already feeling good and happy to have come here, but the reopening of the park and the welcome we got is very nice,” a tourist from Patiali, Punjab, told PTI videos.

“We are happy that this park opened after so many days. We have come here with our families and we will visit the park to show them beautiful Kashmir,” Barkat Ali, a tourist from Bikaner area of Rajasthan, said.

“It is a wonderful feeling and experience. We heard that the park was reopening today, so we came. But, the welcome we got is truly the best experience which we cannot express in words,” another tourist from Punjab said. They appealed to the tourists to come to Kashmir in large numbers.

Tourist police personnel were also deployed to assist the visitors. Local MLA Ghulam Ahmad Mir also welcomed the reopening of the park.

 

Jammu: Lt Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday said complete eradication of terrorism from the Union Territory is the top priority of his administration and asserted that he has given a free hand to the security forces to deal with terrorists and the terror eco-system.

The LG attended the passing-out parade of the deputy superintendents of police (DySPs) probationers 17th batch and probationers sub-inspectors (PSIs) 26th batch at the Sher-e-Kashmir Police Academy, Udhampur. He extended his felicitations to all the trainers and officials of the Police Academy and the family members of the passing out DySPs and PSIs.

He called for intelligence-driven anti-terror operations and intensified targeted strikes on the network of the over-ground workers (OGWs), saying the elements providing logistical and financial support to the terrorists should be brought to justice, an official press release informed.

Reviewing the passing-out parade of the 49 DySPs and 1,112 PSIs, he said police personnel must protect society in every possible way to ensure peace, development and stability.

“Complete eradication of terrorism from the soil of Jammu Kashmir is our top priority. Our mighty warriors of J&K Police must adopt a multi-pronged approach and harness the power of intelligence, community engagement, technology and inter-agency collaboration,” he said, addressing the function.

Sinha said he is proud of the valiant personnel and officers of the J&K Police and paid tributes to the bravehearts who have laid down their lives for the nation.

“The entire nation looks at our police force with admiration and respect for professional competence, for successful handling of security challenges on multiple fronts and ruthlessly combating terrorism,” he said.

Congratulating all the passing-out police officials, he called upon them to uphold the values, traditions and ethos of J&K Police.

“Our ancient values focus on truth, justice, morality, law and good governance, and these values need to be protected and nurtured in the society by the J&K Police,” he said.

The LG called upon the J&K Police to utilise modern technology like Artificial Intelligence (AI) to enhance its capability of data collection and analysis to counter security threats, prevent radicalisation and triumph over adverse situations.

“Despite remarkable changes in technology, there is no alternative to beat policing and area policing. Therefore, we have to bring beat policing to the centre of the security apparatus. We must strike a fine balance between ‘Techint’ (technological intelligence) and ‘Humint’ (human intelligence) to strengthen overall counter-terrorism efforts,” he said.

Sinha asked the police personnel to focus on fostering collective vigilance in the communities.

“This collective vigilance will not only enable the police force to ensure a coordinated response against terrorists but will also strengthen the trust with all sections of society,” he said, emphasising intelligence-driven anti-terror operations.

“I have given a free hand to the Jammu and Kashmir Police and security forces to deal with the terrorists and terror eco-system within J&K. I want the mighty police force, the most powerful Indian Army and the valiant CAPF (Central Armed Police Force) to work together to wipe out the terrorists and their support system.

“We must intensify targeted strikes on the OGWs network and the elements providing logistical and financial support to the terrorists should be brought to justice,” he said.

Udhampur Police Academy Director Garib Dass said the rigorous training programme of the pass-outs equipped them with high proficiency in new criminal laws, artificial intelligence (AI), cybercrime, narco-terrorism, general warfare, field craft and tactics, counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency, human rights, and law and order.

The LG also took the ceremonial salute and inspected the parade. He felicitated the recruits who excelled during their training. An oath was administered to the passing out DySPs and PSIs for performing their duties with dedication and honesty.

Nalin Prabhat, DGP J&K; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu; Saloni Rai, Deputy Commissioner Udhampur; senior officials of police, security forces and civil administration and family members of the passing out DySsP and PSIs were present.

Lal Chand, Chairman, District Development Council, Udhampur; Pawan Gupta, Balwant Singh Mankotia, RS Pathania and Sunil Bhardwaj- Members of Legislative Assembly, and prominent citizens were also present on the occasion.

Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday said he spoke to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar regarding students from the Union Territory stranded in Iran and was assured that necessary steps will be taken to ensure safety of all Indian students.

The development comes after Indian nationals in Iran were on Sunday asked to exercise due caution and maintain contact with the Embassy of India in Tehran through its social media accounts in view of the current situation in the country following the launch of strikes by Israel.

“Just spoke to @DrSJaishankar regarding the situation in Iran, particularly the welfare & safety of Kashmiri students in the country. The Hon Minister assured me that @MEAIndia is in close contact with their counterparts in Iran & will take all necessary steps to safeguard all Indian students in Iran,” Abdullah posted on X.

Earlier in the day, the chief minister had said he was in touch with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) regarding students from the Union Territory stranded in Iran.

“I’m in touch with @MEAIndia regarding the evolving situation in Iran, particularly with regard to the students from Kashmir in Tehran, Shiraz, Qom & other cities. They, in turn, are in close contact with the authorities in Iran,” Abdullah said in a series of posts on X.

He said a decision to evacuate the students will be taken on the basis of ground situation and keeping in view their safety.

“A decision to evacuate, if necessary, will be taken based on the ground situation keeping the safety & security of these students as the primary consideration. We will keep everyone informed as the situation develops,” he said.

The chief minister sought to assure the parents of stranded students that his government was closely following the situation in this regard.

“As a parent I assure all the concerned parents of my government’s close & continuous attention to this important developing situation,” he added.

In an advisory, the Indian embassy in Iran asked all Indian nationals to remain vigilant, avoid all unnecessary movements, follow the embassy’s social media accounts and observe safety protocols as advised by local authorities.

Pertinently, during the day, a group of parents whose children are studying in Iran, assembled at the Press Enclave here to press for evacuation of the Kashmiri students from the war-hit country.

Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) also asked External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to make arrangements for evacuation of students of the Union Territory from Iran as Tel Aviv-Tehran conflict intensified.

In an X post, JKPCC president Tariq Hameed Karra wrote, “Urgent action needed by @DrSJaishankar to evacuate J&K students studying in Iran amid escalating tensions and volatile situation. Prioritise their safety, provide comprehensive support, and ensure their swift, secure return home.”

The opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has urged the stranded students from Jammu and Kashmir to contact the Indian embassy in Tehran.

PDP leader Iltija Mufti posted on X, “For Kashmiri students stranded in Iran, please leave a WhatsApp message or call on these Indian Embassy (@India_in_Iran) numbers +98 9128109115 and +98 9128109109. In case you can’t get through, please tag us (@jkpdp, @YouthJKPDP) on your tweets.”

Hundreds of students from Jammu and Kashmir are pursuing professional courses — mainly medicine — in various Iranian universities.

Indians in Iran asked to exercise caution, maintain contact with embassy

Tehran: Indians in Iran were on Sunday asked not to panic, exercise due caution and maintain contact with the Embassy of India in Tehran through its social media accounts in view of the current situation in the country following the launch of strikes by Israel.

In an advisory, the Indian Embassy here asked all Indian nationals and Persons of Indian Origin to remain vigilant, avoid all unnecessary movements, follow the embassy’s social media accounts and observe safety protocols as advised by local authorities.

The embassy provided a Google form on its X account and asked the Indian citizens to fill it out to provide their details.

“Please remember, it is important not to panic, exercise due caution and maintain contact with the Embassy of India in Tehran,” it said.

It also provided a Telegram Link and asked the Indian citizen to join it to receive updates on the situation from the mission.

“Kindly note that this Telegram Link is ONLY for those Indian Nationals who are currently in Iran,” the embassy posted on X.

It also provided emergency contact details.

“Contacts numbers: For call only: +98 9128109115, +98 9128109109 For WhatsApp: +98 901044557, +98 9015993320, +91 8086871709, Bandar Abbas: +98 9177699036 and Zahedan: +98 9396356649,” the mission said in a statement.

Israel attacked Iran early Friday, targeting its nuclear, missile and military infrastructure. Iran later launched retaliatory strikes on Israel. Israel threatened even greater force after some Iranian missiles struck buildings in the heart of the country. (PTI)

Control Room established in Srinagar for parents of students studying in Iran

Concerned families urged to stay connected, make use of these helplines

Srinagar: In view of the current situation in the West East, the Divisional Administration has established a dedicated Control Room at the DC Office Srinagar to assist families of students studying in Iran, an official press release informed Sunday.

It said parents and guardians can contact the Control Room to share details of their wards through the Landline Numbers: 0194-2483651; 0194-2457543; 0194-2457552, and WhatsApp Numbers: +91-9103998355.

The administration urges all concerned families to stay connected and make use of these helplines.

Srinagar: Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday said the parks at tourist places, which were closed in view of security considerations after the April 22 Pahalgam attack, are being reopened in a phased manner to allow tourists to visit the destinations.

He said that some destinations will be reopened in the first phase from June 17.

“Some places were closed after the April 22 (attack) in view of security considerations. The divisional commissioners and IGPs of Kashmir and Jammu have taken reports from every district and it has been decided to reopen some destinations in a phased manner,” Sinha said.

The LG was speaking to reporters after visiting the Nunwan Base Camp of the annual Amarnath Yatra in Pahalgam in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district.

Sinha said the destinations that have been decided to be reopened for tourists in the first phase include Beetab Valley and the parks near Pahalgam market in the famous tourist destinations of Pahalgam, Verinag, Kokernag and Achabal gardens in Anantnag district.

In Srinagar, Badamwari Park, Duck Park near Nigeen and Taqdeer Park near Hazratbal will also be reopened in the first phase. These eight places are being reopened and tourists can visit these, he added.

The LG also said that eight destinations would be reopened in Jammu region as well.

“Sarthal and Dhaggar in Kathua, Devipindi, Siyad Baba and Sula Park in Reasi, Guldanda and Jai valley in Doda, and Pancheri in Udhampur — all in Jammu region — are also being reopened in the first phase,” said Sinha.

“Eight places are being reopened in the first phase. In the next phase, some other destinations will be reopened,” he added.

The LG said the committee comprising of the divisional commissioners and IGPs of both regions will take reports from districts and then some more places will be reopened in consultations with the Tourist Department.

“The tourists are coming. There is a new enthusiasm in people after the launch of Vande Bharat (train), Railways people have told me that all tickets have been booked for the next 10-12 days. The number of tourists is increasing gradually,” said Sinha.

“Endeavours are being made from every side, the Government of India will also be having meetings of the Parliamentary delegations, committees etc. in Srinagar. This will restore the confidence,” he added.

Commenting on the Amarnath Yatra that is scheduled to begin on July 3, the lieutenant governor said that stringent security arrangements have been made and appealed to people to come here in large numbers.

“But I request them to travel in convoy only from Jammu. Security agencies have formulated a plan for them to travel here and they should stick to that plan,” he said.

“Met the delegation of Hon’ble MLAs, DDC Chairperson & Vice Chairpersons, tour and travel operators, Ponywala association and hoteliers’ associations at Pahalgam. I’ve assured the delegation that restrictions on other tourist spots will be lifted after thorough security assessment,” he said in a post on X.

Sinha said the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Army and CAPFs have made foolproof security arrangements for the annual pilgrimage.

“The locals have supported the yatra and I especially want from the people of Kashmir to come forward and participate in this yatra. This is your yatra, it makes your economy stronger and it will start the revival of tourism, so there is a need for all to support it,” said Sinha.

“It is not the administration and security forces, but the people here who hold this yatra. The administration and the security forces are doing their job. This yatra is of the people of Jammu and Kashmir, they should think of it as their own yatra and everyone should cooperate in the Baba’s yatra,” he added.

The LG also said that a large number of yatris have registered for the pilgrimage.

“The facilities for the yatris have improved a lot in the last three to four years. Be it the power connectivity, telecom connectivity, the number as well as the quality of the halting facilities for yatris has also increased. I visited the Nunwan base camp, the preparations are going on very well,” he added.

 

Srinagar: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today held a public outreach programme at his Raabita office in Srinagar, where he listened to a wide range of issues and demands raised by individuals and delegations from across Jammu and Kashmir, an official press release informed.

Director of IIT Jammu, Manoj S. Gaur, called for support to the Venture Fund created by IIT Jammu aimed at promoting socio-economic development in the region.

A delegation of the Kashmiri Language Union raised concerns regarding the promotion of the Kashmiri language, urging greater institutional support for its development.

A delegation of Revenue Officers submitted a memorandum seeking the reorganization of the Revenue Department and its wings across various departments, with demand for better conditions and structured career progression for Revenue cadre officers.

Similarly, a delegation from Industrial Estate Pampore, led by its president, flagged several issues pertaining to the functioning and development of the estate.

A deputation from the J&K OBC Resident Welfare Forum highlighted various concerns of the OBC community in Jammu & Kashmir.

Representatives from the Bharat CSR Network met the Chief Minister to discuss potential tourism promotion initiatives.

A delegation from Animal Rescue Kashmir raised issues regarding the welfare and rescue of animals, requesting institutional support and awareness for their cause.

Candidates appointed under SRO-120 of 2018 called for the resolution of pending compassionate appointment cases, while another delegation being considered under the Rehabilitation Assistance Scheme (2022) also highlighted similar concerns regarding pendency in compassionate appointments.

A deputation of “Voice of Weekly Newspapers” from Kashmir brought to light issues faced by weekly newspaper publishers in the region.

Besides these, numerous individuals and other delegations met the Chief Minister and apprised him of their grievances and demands.

The Chief Minister gave a patient hearing to all deputations and assured them that their genuine issues would be addressed on priority, the press release said.

Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani and other senior officials were also present during the programme.