SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir witnessed a series of significant activities on Saturday, encompassing celebrations of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, police-public engagement initiatives, intensified anti-drug operations, security preparedness exercises, environmental conservation drives and youth-oriented programmes across various districts.

J&K Police organised a range of programmes to commemorate the 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, promote national unity and strengthen public participation. Alongside these celebrations, Police intensified their crackdown against drug trafficking, attached properties worth crores of rupees, took action against illegal mining, conducted inspections to prevent SIM card misuse and organised educational, sports and community welfare activities.

Several initiatives were also undertaken to honour police martyrs, recognise academic achievements of their families and strengthen coordination among security agencies.

SRINAGAR POLICE ORGANISES DEBATE, ESSAY AND QUIZ COMPETITIONS UNDER POLICE COMMEMORATION DAY / POLICE FLAG DAY-2026

As part of the observance of Police Commemoration Day / Police Flag Day-2026 and to mark the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Srinagar Police, under the territorial jurisdiction of South Zone, organised Debate, Essay and Quiz Competitions at Amira Kadal Higher Secondary School, Srinagar, on the topic "Role of Police in Nation Building".

The programme was organised through Police Station Shergarhi with the objective of engaging students in constructive activities, promoting awareness, encouraging intellectual development and fostering a spirit of national unity and integrity among the younger generation.

SDPO Shaheedganj Shri Dheeraj Kumar, SHO Shergarhi and faculty members of the school were also present.

Students participated enthusiastically in the competitions and showcased their knowledge, creativity, communication skills and understanding of various subjects.

The initiative reflects Srinagar Police's continued commitment towards strengthening Police-Public relations, promoting community engagement and nurturing responsible and informed citizens through educational and awareness-oriented activities.

SRINAGAR POLICE ORGANISES ‘RUN FOR UNITY’ ACROSS DISTRICT UNDER CIVIC ACTION PROGRAMME TO MARK RASHTRIYA EKTA DIWAS

As part of the observance of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day), commemorating the 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Srinagar Police organised ‘Run for Unity’ events at various locations across the district under the Civic Action Programme 2026, with enthusiastic participation from students, police personnel and local residents.

Police Station Ahmad Nagar organised a ‘Run for Unity’ in collaboration with Galaxy Public School, witnessing active participation from students and police personnel. The event aimed at promoting the values of national unity, integrity, solidarity and communal harmony among the youth.

Similarly, Police Station Soura organised a ‘Run for Unity’ race along the 90-Foot Road, covering the stretch from Ellahibagh to Awantabhawan Chowk. Students from various schools and local residents participated enthusiastically, reflecting a strong spirit of unity and togetherness.

On the occasion, participants were felicitated with prizes and medals. At Soura, participants securing 1st, 2nd and 3rd positions were awarded medals in recognition of their performance. Refreshments were also provided to all participants as a gesture of appreciation and encouragement.

The events concluded successfully, reinforcing the message of unity, brotherhood, peace and national integration.

Through such initiatives under the Civic Action Programme, Srinagar Police continues to strengthen police-public relations, encourage youth engagement in constructive activities and promote the ideals of national unity and communal harmony.

POLICE ATTACHES TWO RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS WORTH ₹2.5 CRORE UNDER NDPS ACT IN ANANTNAG

Continuing its sustained crackdown against drug trafficking and the financial networks associated with the drug trade, Police in Anantnag have attached two residential properties worth approximately ₹2.5 crore belonging to NDPS accused persons in separate operations across the district.

In the first action, Police Station Srigufwara attached a double-storey residential house worth approximately ₹1 crore belonging to accused Ab Rashid Bhat, son of Asadullah Bhat, resident of Shitipora. The attachment was carried out under Section 68-F of the NDPS Act. The accused is involved in Case FIR No. 39/2026 under Sections 8/20 and 29 of the NDPS Act.

In another action, a two-storey residential building worth approximately ₹1.5 crore belonging to accused Mohd Yousaf alias Shabir Ahmed, son of Mohd Akram, resident of Frastwar, Ashmuqam, was attached under the relevant provisions of the NDPS Act. The operation was conducted under the supervision of SDPO Pahalgam in the presence of the area Chowkidar and Numberdar.

These actions reflect J&K Police's continued commitment to dismantling the financial networks of drug traffickers and taking stringent action against properties acquired through proceeds of illicit drug trade.

J&K Police reiterated its resolve to continue its intensified campaign against drug trafficking and work towards a drug-free society.

POLICE INTENSIFIES ANTI-DRUG CRACKDOWN; 09 DRUG PEDDLERS ARRESTED, HUGE QUANTITY OF CONTRABAND RECOVERED

Continuing its sustained crackdown against drug trafficking and substance abuse, Police have apprehended nine alleged drug peddlers in multiple operations across Bandipora, Anantnag, Pulwama and Awantipora districts, recovering substantial quantities of contraband substances.

In Bandipora, Police Station Pethkoot apprehended two persons, identified as Gh. Mohd Bhat and Manzoor Ahmad Bhat, both residents of Wewan, during naka checking at Lal Qila Morh, Pethkoot. Approximately 1.030 kg of charas-like substance was recovered from their possession.

In Anantnag, Police apprehended four alleged drug peddlers in separate operations conducted by Police Stations Srigufwara, Bijbehara and Uttrasoo, and Police Post Sangam. At Hatigam Crossing, Police Station Srigufwara apprehended Shabir Ahmad Khan, a resident of Liver Srigufwara, and recovered 982 grams of charas powder from his possession.

At Kandipora, Police Station Bijbehara apprehended Mohd Maqbool Bhat, a resident of Kandipora, and recovered four sticks of charas weighing approximately 84 grams. Police Post Sangam apprehended Parvaiz Ahmad Shah, a resident of Syedpora Devipora Mattan, and recovered 8 grams of charas. Meanwhile, Police Station Uttrasoo apprehended Asif Ahmad Mochi, a resident of Sheikhpora, at Shergund near the bridge and recovered 11 grams of charas.

In Pulwama, Police apprehended two alleged drug peddlers in separate operations at Murran Sheikhpora and Tehsil Office Link Road. During naka checking at Murran Sheikhpora, Police Station Pulwama intercepted Rayees Ahmad Rather, a resident of Murran, and recovered 2.222 kg of charas chura along with 40 grams of a charas-like substance from his possession.

In another operation at Tehsil Office Link Road, Police apprehended Sabzar Ahmad Sheikh, a resident of Inder, and recovered five lathis of a charas-like substance wrapped in maize husk.

In Awantipora, Police Station Tral apprehended Owais Ahmed Khan, a resident of Yanganwani Aripal, during naka checking on Tral-Awantipora Road near Fiza Point. Approximately 30 grams of a cannabis-like substance and 1.070 kg of grinded cannabis were recovered from his possession. The Auto Load Carrier bearing registration number JK13K-7629, allegedly used in the commission of the offence, was also seized.

Regarding the incidents, cases under relevant sections of law have been registered in respective police stations and investigations have been initiated.

J&K Police reiterated its commitment to intensifying action against drug trafficking and substance abuse and appealed to the general public to share credible information regarding drug peddling and other unlawful activities with the nearest police establishment. Public cooperation remains crucial in the collective effort to eradicate the drug menace and safeguard the future of society, particularly its youth.

POLICE ACCORDS WARM SEND-OFF TO RETIRING OFFICERS ON SUPERANNUATION IN AWANTIPORA

Police District Awantipora organised a farewell function at District Police Lines Awantipora to accord a warm send-off to SI Farooq Ahmad Dar and SI Abdul Rashid Khan, who attained the age of superannuation and retired from active service.

The retiring officers were accorded a warm farewell by all ranks of Awantipora Police in recognition of their dedicated services and contributions to the department.

Speaking on the occasion, SSP Awantipora Shri Irshad H. Rather-JKPS appreciated the dedication, sincerity and commitment of the retiring officers towards their duties. He extended his best wishes for their good health, happiness and a peaceful post-retirement life. He also presented gifts to the retirees as a token of love, appreciation and respect for their valuable services.

Addl. SP Awantipora, DySP DAR and other police officers were also present on the occasion. They acknowledged the contributions of the retiring officers and extended their heartfelt wishes for a happy and fulfilling retired life.

J&K Police expressed its gratitude to the retiring officers for their valuable services and wished them the very best for the next chapter of their lives.

POLICE ORGANISES DISTRICT-WIDE DEBATE COMPETITIONS ON ROLE OF POLICE IN NATION BUILDING IN BARAMULLA

Taking the message of national unity and civic responsibility to the younger generation, Police in Baramulla organised debate competitions at various educational institutions across the district on the theme "The Role of Police in Nation Building," as part of the ongoing Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, Police Commemoration Day and Police Flag Day celebrations. The initiative sought to inspire informed dialogue among students on the role of police in strengthening the foundations of a peaceful, secure and progressive nation.

At Government Girls Higher Secondary School, Baramulla, the programme was held under the chairmanship of DySP Headquarters, Baramulla, with enthusiastic participation from students of Government Girls Higher Secondary School, St. Joseph’s School, Police Public School and Guru Nanak School. Participation certificates were distributed, while winners were felicitated with prizes and mementos.

Police Station Kunzer organised a similar competition at Government Higher Secondary School, Kunzer, witnessing active participation from students and teaching staff. Students were also sensitised about their responsibilities towards society and nation building.

Similarly, Uri Police organised a debate competition at Boys Higher Secondary School, Uri, with participation from four educational institutions. Faiqa Farooq of M.M. Memorial Educational Institute secured first position, Sahiba Sadiq of Girls Higher Secondary School, Uri, stood second, while Mehrook Javid of M.M. Memorial Educational Institute secured third position.

The initiatives aimed to encourage young minds to understand the role of police in nation building, promote responsible citizenship and strengthen police-public relations.

POLICE SEIZE 2 VEHICLES AND A JCB INVOLVED IN ILLEGAL MINING IN BARAMULLA

In a continued crackdown on illegal extraction and transportation of minerals, Police in Baramulla, in coordination with the Department of Geology and Mining, Baramulla Circle, seized two tippers and one JCB machine involved in illegal mining activities at Nowlari Pattan.

During patrolling and naka checking, Police Post Kongamdara intercepted two tippers bearing registration numbers JK04H-3664 and JK04J-6924, driven by Saqlain Ali and Irfan Hussain, both residents of Sehpora Magam, along with a JCB machine bearing chassis number J081NB4, driven by Tawseef Ahmad, resident of Khore Sherabad. The vehicles and machinery were found involved in the illegal extraction, digging and transportation of minor minerals.

Acting promptly, officials of the Department of Geology and Mining seized all three vehicles/machinery under the relevant provisions of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957. A fine of ₹36,897 was also imposed.

J&K Police reiterated that strict action will continue against those involved in illegal mining and the unlawful exploitation of natural resources. Joint enforcement drives with the concerned departments will remain underway to curb such activities and ensure strict compliance with mining regulations.

J&K POLICE FELICITATES WARDS AND SIBLINGS OF POLICE MARTYRS FOR ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE IN SHOPIAN

In continuation of the observance of Police Commemoration Day, Police Flag Day and Rashtriya Ekta Diwas, and as part of its continued efforts towards the welfare and support of the families of police martyrs, District Police Shopian organised a felicitation ceremony wherein SSP Shopian, Shri Mushtaq Ahmad Choudhary-JKPS, felicitated the wards and siblings of police martyrs for their outstanding academic achievements and successful completion of professional degree courses.

On the occasion, the awardees were presented with appreciation certificates, mementos and cash rewards in recognition of their hard work, dedication and academic excellence.

While interacting with the awardees, SSP Shopian congratulated them on their achievements and assured them of all possible assistance and support from District Police Shopian in their future academic and professional endeavours.

The initiative reflects the commitment of J&K Police towards honouring the supreme sacrifices of police martyrs by extending continued care, encouragement and support to their families. J&K Police reiterated its resolve to stand by the families of martyrs and recognise the achievements of their wards and siblings.

POLICE ORGANISES PLANTATION DRIVE ON RASHTRIYA EKTA DIWAS IN AWANTIPORA

As part of the Rashtriya Ekta Diwas celebrations commemorating the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Police in Awantipora organised a Plantation Drive at District Police Lines Awantipora under the supervision of SSP Awantipora, Shri Irshad H. Rather-JKPS.

During the drive, police officers and personnel planted saplings, symbolising the spirit of unity, collective responsibility and commitment towards environmental conservation.

The initiative highlighted the importance of protecting the environment, promoting greenery and contributing towards a cleaner and sustainable future.

Through this initiative, Awantipora Police reaffirmed its commitment to environmental protection and the ideals of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas.

POLICE AND 13 RR CONDUCT JOINT ANTI-FIDAYEEN MOCK DRILL IN BANDIPORA

Police in Bandipora, along with 13 RR, conducted an Anti-Fidayeen Mock Drill at Aragam with other agencies to assess operational preparedness, inter-agency coordination and emergency response mechanisms in the event of a simulated terrorist attack.

The exercise witnessed the participation of personnel from Police Station Aragam and Army's 13 Rashtriya Rifles (RR), and other agencies, who jointly demonstrated coordinated response capabilities under a simulated emergency scenario.

During the exercise, one simulated terrorist was located in an under-construction building and neutralised as per the prescribed drill scenario.

Thereafter, joint teams carried out an extensive area sanitisation exercise to check for any suspected explosive material.

The mock drill also assessed medical response and casualty management arrangements, including ambulance deployment and handling of simulated casualties.

The exercise concluded successfully after the premises were thoroughly searched, sanitised and declared safe. A detailed briefing and debriefing session was also conducted to assess the performance of participating personnel and identify areas requiring further improvement.

The exercise reaffirmed the commitment of District Police Bandipora and sister agencies towards maintaining operational readiness, strengthening inter-agency coordination and ensuring a prompt and effective response to any eventuality.

J&K POLICE CONDUCTS INSPECTION OF SIM CARD VENDORS IN SHOPIAN TO CURB MISUSE

In a significant step towards preventing the misuse of SIM cards and enhancing public safety, Police in Shopian conducted a comprehensive inspection of SIM card vendors across the district. The initiative aimed at ensuring strict compliance with the prescribed guidelines governing the sale and activation of SIM cards and strengthening efforts to prevent their unauthorised use.

The inspection focused on verifying compliance with Know Your Customer (KYC) norms, checking proper documentation and preventing the unauthorised issuance of SIM cards. The vendors were also sensitised about the need to adhere to all applicable legal and regulatory requirements. The inspection drive was carried out by the respective jurisdictional officers across the district.

J&K Police emphasised the crucial role of SIM card vendors in preventing the misuse of communication services and advised them to strictly follow the prescribed KYC procedures and verification protocols. The vendors were cautioned that any violation or non-compliance would invite strict legal action as per law.

J&K Police also appealed to the general public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or irregularities related to the sale, issuance or misuse of SIM cards to the nearest Police establishment.

J&K POLICE ORGANISES PLANTATION DRIVE IN SHOPIAN ON RASHTRIYA EKTA DIWAS

As part of the observance of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) and to commemorate the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, Shopian Police organised a plantation drive across the district, with a special plantation drive at District Police Lines (DPL) Shopian.

The initiative aimed at promoting the values of national unity, environmental conservation and sustainable development. Senior police officers and police personnel actively participated in the drive by planting saplings of various ornamental plant species, conveying the message of "Unity with Nature and Nation."

Speaking on the occasion, SSP Shopian Sh. Mushtaq Ahmad Choudhary-JKPS emphasised the importance of environmental responsibility and collective efforts towards building a greener and sustainable future. He observed that just as trees strengthen the ecosystem, unity and solidarity strengthen the nation.

The plantation drive reflects J&K Police's continued commitment towards environmental protection, community service and promotion of national integration and harmony, in the true spirit of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas.

J&K POLICE OBSERVES RASHTRIYA EKTA DIWAS ACROSS VALLEY; UNITY PARADES, PLEDGE CEREMONIES AND ‘RUN FOR UNITY’ EVENTS ORGANISED

J&K Police observed Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) across the Valley to commemorate the 151st birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the Iron Man of India. A series of programmes, including ceremonial parades, National Unity Pledge ceremonies, ‘Run for Unity’ events, cultural activities and public outreach initiatives, were organised to reaffirm the commitment towards national unity, integrity, solidarity and communal harmony.

In Pulwama, Police organised Unity Parades and National Unity Pledge ceremonies across all police units. The main function was held at DPL Pulwama, where SSP Pulwama administered the pledge, followed by a ceremonial march past involving J&K Police and CAPF contingents.

In Kulgam, Police organised pledge-taking ceremonies across all police establishments, while the main function at DPL Kulgam featured a ceremonial march past by police, Armed Police and Home Guards contingents. ‘Run for Unity’ programmes were also organised across various zones of the district, witnessing participation from students, youth and the general public.

In Shopian, Police organised an Ekta Diwas Parade and pledge ceremony at DPL Shopian, preceded by a ‘Run for Unity’. SSP Shopian administered the National Unity Pledge, while contingents of J&K Police, CRPF and Home Guards/SDRF participated in the ceremonial parade. Floral tributes were also paid to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.

In Anantnag, Police organised pledge-taking ceremonies and a ceremonial march past at DPL Anantnag, besides conducting similar programmes across police stations and sub-units. A photo exhibition depicting the life and contributions of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was also organised. A ‘Run for Unity’ witnessed participation from senior police and civil administration officers and members of civil society.

In Awantipora, Police organised a ceremonial march past and National Unity Pledge ceremony at DPL Awantipora, with participation from police and CRPF personnel. A ‘Run for Unity’ from IUST Crossing to DPL Awantipora also witnessed enthusiastic participation from students and the general public, with winners felicitated with cash prizes and certificates.

In Budgam, Police organised a main function at District Police Lines, where SSP Budgam administered the National Unity Pledge in the presence of Deputy Commissioner Budgam. A ceremonial parade featuring police and CRPF contingents was also held. Additionally, a ‘Run for Unity’ was organised in collaboration with the District Administration, witnessing participation of over 500 students, youth and officers.

In Sopore, Police organised an Ekta Diwas Parade and pledge ceremony at DPL Sopore, besides conducting ‘Run for Unity’ programmes. SSP Sopore administered the pledge, while police personnel, civil administration officials, students, traders and civil society members participated in the celebrations.

In Handwara, Police observed Rashtriya Ekta Diwas across the district with a ceremonial march past and pledge ceremony at DPL Handwara, led by SSP Handwara. A ‘Run for Unity’ was also organised from Chotipora to Environmental Hall, Handwara, with enthusiastic participation from students and civil administration officials.

In Kupwara, Police organised a ceremonial parade, march past and floral tribute to Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel at DPL Kupwara. A photo exhibition highlighting his life and contribution to national integration, along with an exhibition showcasing the equipment and resources of SDRF, AST, BDS and Police Kote, was also organised. A ‘Run for Unity’, cultural programme and signature campaign were held in collaboration with the District Administration.

In Bandipora, Police organised ‘Run for Unity’ programmes at Garoora, Hajin, Sumbal and Bandipora in collaboration with the Civil Administration and CRPF. The main district-level run commenced from Mini Secretariat Bandipora and culminated at Chitternar, witnessing enthusiastic participation from different sections of society.

In Baramulla, Police, in collaboration with the Civil Administration, organised a mega Ekta Diwas rally from Dak Bungalow to Prof. Showkat Ali Stadium. The celebrations also featured a police band show near Carippa Park, cultural programmes at Palhalan and a ‘Run for Unity’ at Mirgund, besides pledge ceremonies, joint march pasts and awareness activities across the district.

In Ganderbal, Police observed National Unity Day (Rashtriya Ekta Diwas) at Qamariya Stadium, Ganderbal, with great fervour and enthusiasm. SSP Ganderbal took the salute of the parade and administered the National Unity Day pledge to police officers and jawans. Officers pledged to uphold the unity, integrity and security of the nation and to dedicate themselves to safeguarding its sovereignty and internal security.

Through these programmes, J&K Police reaffirmed its commitment to upholding national unity, integrity and security, strengthening police-public relations and promoting peace, brotherhood and communal harmony across the region.

POLICE INAUGURATES FOOTBALL TOURNAMENT UNDER CIVIC ACTION PROGRAMME IN GANDERBAL

As part of its continued efforts to promote sports culture, encourage youth participation and channelise their energy towards positive activities, Police in Ganderbal inaugurated a Football Tournament under the Civic Action Programme (CAP) at Indoor Stadium Sehpora.

The inaugural ceremony was chaired by SSP Ganderbal, accompanied by Dy.SP Headquarters Ganderbal. A total of 16 teams from across the district will participate in the tournament, providing a platform for young football enthusiasts to showcase their talent, sportsmanship and competitive spirit.

The inauguration match was played between FC Max and FC Gulistan, in which FC Max emerged victorious, defeating FC Gulistan by 2–1 goals in an exciting encounter.

The initiative reflects Ganderbal Police’s commitment to fostering a healthy sporting environment, strengthening police-public relations and engaging youth in constructive activities.

J&K Police reaffirmed its commitment to continue such youth-centric initiatives to nurture local sporting talent and contribute towards a positive and vibrant society.

POLICE CONCLUDES POLICE MARTYRS VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT IN GANDERBAL

Police in Ganderbal concluded the Police Martyrs Volleyball Tournament with a grand finale at District Police Lines (DPL), Ganderbal. The tournament was organised in the loving memory of police martyrs to pay tribute to their supreme sacrifices and promote sportsmanship, camaraderie and youth engagement through sports.

The final match witnessed an exciting contest between Gutlibagh and Safapora, with both teams displaying remarkable skill, determination and team spirit. In a spirited showdown, Safapora emerged victorious, defeating Gutlibagh by 3–1 sets to clinch the championship title. Both winner and runner-up teams were rewarded with cash prizes, mementos, medals and appreciation certificates.

The tournament provided a vibrant platform for local youth to showcase their sporting talent while strengthening the values of discipline, unity, mutual respect and healthy competition. The initiative also served as a heartfelt tribute to the brave police martyrs who laid down their lives in the line of duty in the service of the nation.

J&K Police reiterated its commitment to promoting sports and youth engagement across the district, while keeping alive the cherished memories and supreme sacrifices of police martyrs.

Your voice can reach the world: At JK Monitor, we firmly believe that every well-researched idea has the power to inspire change beyond geographical boundaries. We are delighted to share an encouraging message from one of our esteemed contributors, Dr. Rakesh Verma (J&K Forest Services). “His article, ‘When Trees Become Rights-Bearing Citizens: A Lesson from Canada for India’s Ecological Future,’ published on JK Monitor, received appreciation from La Compagnie des Papillons Bleus, the French non-profit organisation that founded and promotes the Universal Declaration of Tree Rights.”.  Read the message here
In loving memory of Dr. Priya Ranjan: A mentor who treated me like family
A Profound Loss: JK Monitor Mourns the Passing of Founding Chairman Dr. Priya Ranjan

We at JK Monitor are profoundly saddened by the sudden demise of our Founding Chairman, Dr. Priya Ranjan.IN LOVING MEMORY Dr Priya Ranjan

A brilliant mind who studied at Netarhat Residential School and graduated in Electrical Engineering from IIT Kharagpur before earning his PhD from the University of Maryland, Dr. Ranjan chose to return to India and dedicate his life to teaching, research and social good.

His pioneering work in networked systems, AI, robotics and biomedical applications—especially computer-vision tools for early detection of cancer and heart disease—reflected his deep belief that advanced technology must serve humanity.

For more than 15 years at JK Monitor, he remained a loyal friend, mentor and collaborator, marked by rare humility, intellectual integrity and quiet generosity. His passing leaves a void that cannot be filled. Priya, you will be deeply missed. Your life continues to remind us that knowledge finds its highest purpose in the service of others.

— Team JK Monitor

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