kashmir activist journalist
|

Kashmir activist and journalist released on bail after years in custody

ByJustpaste.in

Indian authorities have released Kashmiri human rights activist Khurram Parvez and journalist Irfan Mehraj on bail after they spent years in custody under terrorism related charges. Their families confirmed that both men were released from a prison in New Delhi late on Wednesday following a court order, although strict bail conditions will keep them in the capital while their trial continues.

Parvez, a well known human rights defender and programme coordinator of the Jammu Kashmir Coalition of Civil Society, was arrested by India’s National Investigation Agency in November 2021 from his home in Srinagar. Mehraj, a freelance journalist who also worked with the same rights organisation, was arrested in 2023.

Both men have been charged under India’s anti terrorism laws with allegedly financing terrorism and promoting separatist activities. The legislation allows authorities to detain suspects for long periods without trial and has frequently been criticised by rights organisations for its broad powers.

Although they have now been granted bail, their freedom remains limited. Court conditions require both Parvez and Mehraj to stay in New Delhi during the legal proceedings. They are not permitted to return to Kashmir and must arrange their own accommodation in the capital while attending court hearings. Indian investigators had challenged the decision to grant bail, but a higher court upheld the order.

The Jammu Kashmir Coalition of Civil Society has spent many years documenting alleged human rights violations in the region. The organisation has published reports on cases involving torture, unlawful killings, enforced disappearances, and unmarked graves in areas affected by the long running conflict. Its work has often drawn international attention and placed it at the centre of debates over human rights in Kashmir.

Parvez has received support from several international human rights organisations that have repeatedly called for his release. In 2023, the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention described his arrest as retaliation for his human rights activities. The UN experts said the detention appeared intended to silence both Parvez and wider civil society efforts in Kashmir.

The case has also renewed attention on press freedom in the region. Journalists working in Indian administered Kashmir have reported increasing restrictions, surveillance, and legal action since the Indian government revoked the region’s special constitutional status in 2019. Several media workers and activists say they have faced questioning, arrests, or pressure while reporting on political and security issues.

The Indian government maintains that its actions are necessary to combat terrorism and protect national security. Officials argue that the anti terrorism laws are an essential tool in dealing with militant groups operating in the region. However, critics say the legislation has increasingly been used against journalists, activists, and civil society members who peacefully document human rights concerns.

Government figures show that more than 3,600 people were arrested under anti terrorism laws in Kashmir between 2019 and 2023. More than half of those detained remain in prison while awaiting legal proceedings, highlighting concerns over lengthy pre trial detention.

The release of Parvez and Mehraj has been welcomed by rights advocates, but legal proceedings against both men continue. They will remain in New Delhi under the conditions set by the court until their trial reaches its conclusion. Their cases are expected to remain closely watched by international human rights organisations and press freedom groups as they continue to raise concerns about civil liberties and legal protections in Indian administered Kashmir.

Similar Posts

  • |

    Antarctic cold blast grips New Zealand’s South Island

    ByJustpaste.in

      A powerful cold wave sweeping north from Antarctica has engulfed New Zealand’s South Island, bringing freezing temperatures, fierce winds, and unusually heavy snowfall that has severely disrupted daily life across the region. The city of Dunedin has been among the hardest hit, experiencing strong icy winds accompanied by significant snowfall. Residents woke up to streets, rooftops, and vehicles covered in several inches of snow, creating hazardous conditions for both pedestrians and motorists. The unusual weather has transformed the city into a winter landscape, while also causing widespread travel disruptions. Authorities reported that the heavy snowfall has blanketed roads, making many routes dangerous and, in some areas, impassable. Snowplows and emergency crews have been deployed to clear major highways and ensure safe access for emergency services. However, officials have urged residents to stay indoors unless travel is absolutely necessary, warning that icy roads and reduced visibility could lead to accidents. Public transportation has also been significantly affected. All bus services in Dunedin were suspended due to unsafe road conditions, leaving commuters stranded and forcing many schools, businesses, and public institutions to adjust their schedules. Local authorities continue to monitor the weather closely before deciding when transportation services can safely resume. The severe weather has also disrupted travel between New Zealand’s North and South Islands. Ferry services connecting the two islands have been suspended because of dangerous sea conditions caused by the powerful Antarctic storm system. Strong winds and rough waves have made navigation unsafe, affecting both passenger and freight transport. The suspension of ferry operations is expected to delay the movement of goods and impact travel plans for thousands of people. Meteorologists say the cold outbreak originated from Antarctica and pushed unusually frigid air across southern New Zealand. Such weather systems are capable of producing intense snowfall, especially when cold Antarctic air interacts with moisture over the surrounding oceans. While snowfall is common during winter in parts of the South Island, the intensity of this storm has been described as exceptional for several areas. Emergency management agencies have advised residents to prepare for continued freezing conditions. People have been encouraged to keep emergency supplies at home, avoid unnecessary travel, dress warmly, and check on elderly neighbors or vulnerable family members who may require assistance during the cold spell. The harsh weather has also raised concerns for farmers, who are working to protect livestock from freezing temperatures and strong winds. Agricultural authorities have urged farmers to provide adequate shelter and food for animals until conditions improve. Forecasters predict that the Antarctic cold blast may continue to affect parts of the South Island over the coming days, with additional snowfall and icy conditions possible in higher elevations. Officials remain on high alert as they assess the impact of the storm and work to restore essential services. Residents are advised to stay informed through official weather updates and follow safety instructions until the severe weather subsides.

  • |

    Michael Douglas charms fans with playful puppet video

    ByJustpaste.in

    Michael Douglas had fans reacting warmly after sharing a lighthearted video on social media. Hundreds of well-wishes poured in after the veteran actor posted the clip on Sunday. In the video, Douglas is seen enjoying the classic tune “That’s Amore” alongside a comedic puppet. He shared the moment with his more than two million Instagram followers, simply captioning the post with the song’s title. The playful clip quickly drew attention from those close to him. His wife, Catherine Zeta-Jones, was among those who liked the post, along with actress Melanie Griffith, mother of Dakota Johnson. Beyond his immediate circle, the post also drew a wave of public affection. Hundreds of fans left comments praising the actor, with several calling him one of the best performers in the industry. One fan wrote that he remains an all-time favourite, while another simply expressed how much they admire his work. The overwhelmingly positive response reflects the deep goodwill Douglas continues to enjoy among longtime fans. The lighthearted post also comes years after a much more serious chapter in his life. Douglas experienced significant weight loss during his battle with throat cancer, following his diagnosis back in 2010. He announced in January 2011 that his cancer was in remission, marking a major turning point in his recovery. Douglas has remained cancer-free ever since, continuing to work steadily in the industry in the years that followed. His latest social media appearance offers a lighter, more playful glimpse into his life today, far removed from that difficult period. Fans have continued to express appreciation not just for his career, but for his openness in sharing both serious and joyful moments with his audience over the years.

  • |

    Akshay Kumar goes full villain, says ‘Haiwaan’ role has no grey shades

    ByJustpaste.in

    Akshay Kumar is stepping into unfamiliar territory with his upcoming thriller “Haiwaan” taking on a fully negative character for the first time. The role marks a clear departure from his usual on-screen image. The actor recently opened up about his first look and the nature of his character in the film. He made clear there is nothing sympathetic or conflicted about the role he is playing. Kumar explained that his character matches the film’s title exactly, with absolutely no shades of grey involved. He described the role as being completely and unapologetically evil from start to finish. He admitted that taking on such a character felt like an entirely new experience for him. Kumar said he had always wanted to play a psychopath on screen, something he had not attempted in his career so far. He also pointed out that his recent projects have spanned a wide range of genres. From comedy and horror to action and drama, Kumar said he has been consciously exploring different creative directions. Director Priyadarshan also spoke about how Kumar’s distinctive look for the film came together. He revealed that the idea for the beanie actually originated on the sets of a completely different project. Priyadarshan explained that he spotted Kumar casually wearing the beanie during the shoot of “Bhooth Bangla” and instantly loved the look. That casual moment ended up shaping the actor’s final appearance for “Haiwaan.” The director also shared that he had not expected Kumar to accept the role when he first narrated the story. He assumed the actor might turn it down, given how different it was from his usual choices. To his surprise, Kumar showed genuine interest right away. The film also features Saif Ali Khan, Saiyami Kher and Shriya Pilgaonkar in key roles alongside Kumar. Together, the cast brings a mix of star power to what’s shaping up to be a darker, more intense project. “Haiwaan” is currently scheduled for a theatrical release on September 11. With Kumar stepping into unfamiliar villain territory, the film is already generating curiosity ahead of its release.

  • | |

    Rs120bn PRI subsidy ends as banks take over costs …

    ByJustpaste.in

    Islamabad: The government has stopped providing the Pakistan Remittance Initiative subsidy, which reached Rs120 billion, saying the country’s financial difficulties make it impossible to continue the support under the current budget. Banks have agreed to absorb the related costs themselves to keep overseas Pakistanis sending money through official channels. The development puts the spotlight on the future of Pakistan’s remittance system, which depends heavily on money sent home by Pakistanis working abroad. The government had previously used subsidies to help banks facilitate these transfers, but curtailed that support last year. The Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan informed the Senate Standing Committee on Finance and Revenue that the government had initially provided subsidies to banks under the Pakistan Remittance Initiative to facilitate remittances from overseas Pakistanis. The total subsidy provided by the government reached Rs120 billion. However, the financial pressure on the government has now made it difficult to continue paying this amount. The subsidy could not be continued in the current budget because of prevailing fiscal constraints. Instead, banks have decided to bear the costs linked to facilitating remittances from their own resources. The decision means that banks will continue providing the service to overseas Pakistanis even though the government can no longer provide the previous level of financial support. The Pakistan Remittance Initiative was discussed by the committee during its meeting at Parliament House in Islamabad on August 25, 2026, under the chairmanship of Senator Saleem Mandviwalla. The committee considered the government’s decision important because remittances sent by Pakistanis living and working abroad are a major source of foreign currency for the country. The State Bank told the committee that banks decided to continue bearing the associated costs so that the flow of remittances would not be disrupted. The committee appreciated the banks’ decision but also decided to examine their actual performance. Selected banks will therefore be invited to the committee’s next meeting to explain their performance and contribution to the remittance sector. The move comes at a time when the government is facing tight financial conditions and has been forced to reduce or reconsider spending commitments. The end of the Rs120 billion subsidy raises an important question about how the remittance system will operate in the longer term if banks continue to carry the costs without government support. For millions of Pakistanis working overseas, remittances are an important way of supporting families at home. These transfers help families pay for everyday needs and also bring foreign currency into Pakistan. The government’s decision does not mean that the remittance service has stopped. Instead, banks have agreed to continue facilitating transfers while paying the related costs themselves. The Senate committee has now moved to check whether banks are fulfilling this responsibility effectively and whether overseas Pakistanis are receiving proper services. The next meeting is expected to provide the committee with a clearer picture of how banks are handling the change after the withdrawal of the government subsidy. The key issue remains whether banks can continue carrying the financial burden while maintaining an efficient and reliable remittance system for overseas Pakistanis. The Rs120 billion figure also shows the scale of government support previously used to encourage and facilitate remittances through the formal banking system.

  • |

    KP cabinet approves tax exemptions for merged districts, Malakand

    ByJustpaste.in

    PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has approved a package of measures aimed at providing tax relief to businesses and industries operating in the province’s merged tribal districts and Malakand Division, while also expanding welfare and education initiatives. According to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Minister Shafiullah Jan, the provincial cabinet has endorsed exemptions from certain provincial taxes for service providers and industries operating in areas previously covered by the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA), Provincially Administered Tribal Areas (PATA) and Malakand Division. Under the decision, service providers operating in the former FATA, PATA and Malakand areas will be exempted from provincial sales tax on services. Industries established in these regions will also receive relief from withholding sales tax. The government said the tax measures were intended to encourage investment, facilitate businesses and support economic activity in areas that have historically faced developmental and infrastructure challenges. Ehsaas Nawaz funding increased The cabinet also approved a significant increase in the financial allocation for the Ehsaas Nawaz programme. According to the information minister, the programme’s funding has been raised from Rs3 billion to Rs5 billion. The increase is expected to provide additional financial support under the government’s welfare initiatives and expand the programme’s reach among deserving segments of the population. Ashra Rahmat Lil-Aalameen programme approved The provincial cabinet also approved arrangements for observing Ashra Rahmat Lil-Aalameen (PBUH) across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The celebrations will formally begin from the first day of Rabi-ul-Awwal, with the cabinet approving a schedule for programmes to be organised across the province. The initiative is expected to include a range of activities aimed at highlighting the teachings, life and message of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Education sector measures Several decisions concerning education were also approved during the cabinet meeting. The provincial government sanctioned funds for schools and colleges in various districts to address educational requirements and improve facilities. The cabinet also approved a system for providing textbooks according to the semester system up to Grade 5. In another major education-related decision, the cabinet approved the provision of 100 percent free textbooks for students from Grade 9 to Grade 12. The measures are aimed at reducing the financial burden on students and their families while improving access to educational resources, particularly for students enrolled in government institutions. Public-private partnership legislation The cabinet further approved the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Public Private Partnership Authority Bill 2026 for enactment. The proposed legislation is intended to establish a formal framework for public-private partnerships in the province and facilitate greater participation of the private sector in development projects. The government believes stronger public-private cooperation can help mobilise investment, improve service delivery and accelerate infrastructure development across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *