Day: December 10, 2025

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL 

SRINAGAR DECM, 10:-The International Human Rights Organisation (IHRO), Jammu and Kashmir Chapter, marked World Human Rights Day with a series of programmes focused on dignity, equality and justice for all. The day, observed every year on 10 December, commemorates the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. This year’s events stressed the need to strengthen protections, support vulnerable groups and promote an inclusive society across Jammu and Kashmir.

In a statement, Mohammad Yaqoob Dunoo, Media Incharge of the IHRO JK Chapter, emphasised the importance of safeguarding fundamental rights and encouraging citizens to understand and claim them. He said human rights are not just legal guarantees but the foundation of peace, democracy and social progress. He added that an informed and aware society is essential for defending these values.

Yaqoob also spoke about the long-standing challenges faced by persons with disabilities in the region. He said their concerns often go unnoticed and that there is still no accurate data on the number of specially abled individuals in Jammu and Kashmir. He urged the government to conduct a fresh census to ensure proper identification and delivery of welfare schemes. Yaqoob added that the current monthly assistance of 1,200 rupees is far too low to meet basic needs and appealed for an increase to at least 3,000 rupees so that individuals can live with dignity and manage essential expenses without hardship.

He noted that disabled persons continue to face barriers in healthcare, mobility, education and employment. Many families struggle to meet daily requirements, and limited support only deepens their difficulties. He said improving accessibility, providing skill-based training and ensuring fair representation in welfare programmes should be prioritised. A society that protects its most vulnerable citizens becomes stronger, more humane and more responsible, he added.

As part of the World Human Rights Day activities, IHRO volunteers interacted with youth, distributed awareness materials and encouraged people to speak out against discrimination and injustice. Yaqoob highlighted the importance of community-led awareness to address gender inequality, disability rights and the protection of marginalized groups. The organisation also engaged with students and local residents to promote a culture of respect, tolerance and shared responsibility. According to its members, progress is possible only when communities work together to challenge harmful practices and stand up for the rights of others.

IHRO reaffirmed its commitment to working with civil society groups, educational institutions and community leaders to create an environment where every individual is treated fairly and protected under the rule of law. Yaqoob Dunoo said the organisation will continue its efforts to build a society rooted in justice, equality and human dignity.

GNS ONLINE NEWS PORTAL 

SRINAGAR DECM 09(KNC):-Jammu & Kashmir Police have made fresh arrests in a nearly 29-year-old case linked to rioting, firing on police personnel, and unlawful activities during a violent procession in Srinagar in 1996.

Officials told news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, KNC that the case pertains to FIR No. 192/1996 registered at Police Station Shergarhi under sections of the erstwhile Ranbir Penal Code, Arms Act, and UAPA. The FIR was filed after a massive procession on July 17, 1996, turned violent.

Major breakthroughs occurred this week, after, Shakeel Ahmad Bakshi, former chief of the Islamic Students League, surrendered before the NIA Court Srinagar on December 8 and Javid Ahmad Mir, another key accused, surrendered a day later on December 9.

According to police records, the procession was led by senior separatist figures including Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Abdul Gani Lone, Mohammad Yaqoob Wakil, and Javid Ahmad Mir. The mob was carrying the body of terrorist Hilal Ahmad Beigh of Allochi Bagh, who had been killed in an encounter at Parimpora.

When police attempted to stop the crowd at Naaz Crossing, the mob allegedly resorted to heavy stone-pelting, raised anti-India slogans, and created a law-and-order emergency. Under the cover of the chaos, Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists allegedly opened fire at the police, prompting retaliatory action. The procession dispersed soon after, and the body was later handed over to the family.

During the early investigation, seven persons were identified for leading and provoking the violence. Geelani and Lone were arrested the same day but were later released on bail. Officials confirmed that three of the accused including Geelani have since passed away, and death certificates have been obtained.

Two others named in the case, Shabir Shah and Nayeem Khan, continue to remain lodged in Tihar Jail in a separate NIA case.

Both were taken into custody by Shergarhi Police after completing legal formalities. Police said Bakshi’s brother had earlier been associated with the banned JKLF.

Officials said the investigation is now moving swiftly, and a charge sheet will be filed before the competent court once the remaining legal procedures are completed. —(KNC)