The Quick Update

Tourism Federation of Jammu Calls for International Connectivity and 24x7 Airport Operations

Pushes for More Flights, Global Links and Round-the-Clock Airport Services

Srinagar, May 26: The Tourism Federation of Jammu has strongly called for enhanced air connectivity and 24-hour airport operations to boost the region’s growing tourism sector.

In a significant meeting chaired by Chairman Rajesh Gupta, along with key executive members, the Federation reviewed the current tourism landscape and emphasized the urgent need for improved infrastructure and accessibility. While appreciating the ongoing modernization of Jammu Airport, the Federation noted that these developments mark a positive step toward strengthening the region’s tourism potential.

Highlighting that Jammu receives nearly one crore visitors annually—including pilgrims, tourists, and business travelers—the Federation expressed concern over the lack of adequate direct flight connections to major cities across India. Members unanimously demanded the introduction of additional flights and direct connectivity to key metropolitan and tourist destinations.

The Federation also strongly advocated for round-the-clock (24x7) airport operations post-expansion, stating that increased passenger traffic requires uninterrupted services. Further, they urged the government to grant international airport status to Jammu Airport, calling it a crucial move to accelerate tourism, trade, and economic growth.

Recognizing Jammu as a gateway to major religious and tourist destinations, the Federation stressed the need for world-class aviation infrastructure and global connectivity. It also called for improved intercity air links within the region to facilitate seamless travel for tourists and support local businesses.

Reaffirming its commitment, the Tourism Federation of Jammu pledged to continue advocating for policies and initiatives that strengthen the tourism ecosystem and position Jammu as a premier travel hub in India.

CM Omar Abdullah Visits Bereaved Family in Budgam, Assures Strict Action in Minor Girl Tragedy

Srinagar, May 26: Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Tuesday visited the residence of the minor girl in Budgam to offer condolences to the grieving family following the tragic incident that has sparked widespread shock and outrage across the Valley.

Leading a delegation, the Chief Minister met the bereaved family members and expressed profound grief over the heartbreaking loss.

He conveyed his solidarity with the family during this difficult time and prayed for strength, patience, and courage for them to bear the immense sorrow.

Speaking on the occasion, Omar Abdullah said the incident has deeply shaken the conscience of society and described the crime as inhuman and unacceptable in a civilised society.

He asserted that such elements have no place in Jammu & Kashmir and emphasised that justice must prevail.

The Chief Minister assured the family that the perpetrators involved in the heinous act would be dealt with strictly in accordance with the law and that no leniency would be shown against those responsible.

The visit comes amid growing public demand for swift justice and stringent punishment for the accused in the case, which has triggered widespread condemnation from political, social, and civil society circles across the region.

Missing Alert | Budgam

Young Woman Reported Missing From Narkara, Budgam; Family Seeks Public Assistance

Help Trace Rabiya Mehraj | Contact: 6006757626 / 9149777359

Budgam, May 26: A young woman identified as Rabiya Mehraj, daughter of Mehraj Ahmad Bhat and a resident of Bonpora Narkara in central Kashmir’s Budgam district, has reportedly gone missing, triggering concern among family members and locals.

According to details circulating in public alerts, the 18–19-year-old has been missing since approximately 8:30 PM on May 25. She was reportedly last seen near Ompora Budgam Chowk/Main Stop before her disappearance.

The family has appealed to the general public to assist in tracing her whereabouts. Social media platforms across Kashmir have witnessed widespread circulation of the missing alert in an effort to help locate the girl at the earliest.

Anyone having any information regarding Rabiya Mehraj is requested to immediately contact the family on 6006757626 or 9149777359, or inform the nearest police station.

Meanwhile, authorities are expected to verify details and initiate necessary procedures as efforts continue to trace the missing girl.

Officials and family members have urged people to share only verified information and avoid spreading rumours or unconfirmed claims on social media.

“Only a Beast Could Commit Such Brutality”: Apni Party Holds Protest, Candlelight Vigil Over Budgam Minor’s Brutal Killing

Mohammad Ashraf Mir Demands Fast-Track Trial & Stern Punishment, Says “Only a Beast Could Commit Such Brutality”

Srinagar, May 26: The protest and candlelight vigil organised by Jammu and Kashmir Apni Party against the horrific r**e and murder of a minor girl in Budgam’s Galwanpora on Monday witnessed strong condemnation of the crime, with party leaders demanding swift justice and exemplary punishment for the accused.

Led by the party’s Provincial President Mohammad Ashraf Mir, senior leaders and workers gathered in Srinagar carrying placards and candles to express solidarity with the bereaved family and outrage over the incident that has shaken Kashmir.

The protesters termed the incident a “crime against humanity,” saying the barbaric act had deeply wounded the collective conscience of society and exposed the urgent need for stronger safeguards for women and children.

Addressing the gathering, Mohammad Ashraf Mir expressed profound grief over the tragedy and assured the victim’s family of unwavering support. He said the brutal killing had “shaken every human heart” and underscored the need for stronger societal and institutional mechanisms to ensure the safety and dignity of children and women.

Demanding a fast-track trial, Mir said the accused must be awarded the harshest possible punishment without delay. He also appealed to the legal fraternity not to defend the guilty and urged religious leaders to join the movement for justice. Warning against any delay in the judicial process, he said he would resort to a hunger strike if justice was prolonged.

“This is not merely a crime; it is an act of unimaginable brutality that has horrified the entire society. Only a beast devoid of humanity could commit such a heinous act,” the protesting leaders said, while calling for justice to be delivered swiftly and without compromise.

The party leaders stressed that crimes of such horrific nature should serve as a wake-up call for society to collectively stand against violence, moral decay, and crimes against women and children.

Among those present during the protest were State Youth President and Spokesperson Yawar Dilawar Mir, Women’s Wing President Dilshad Shaheen, District President Srinagar Muhammad Shafi Mir, District President Budgam Advocate Owais Ashraf Shah, Provincial Secretary Kashmir Muhammad Ashraf Dar, Shiraza Malik, Muzafar Reshi, Shabir Ahmad Reshi, Aamir Ashraf Bhat, Sajad Ahmad Dar, Syed Muzammil Rizvi, Aijaz Ahmad Rather, Sheikh Muzaffar, Ishtiyaq Khan, Mudasir Ahmad Bhat, Tanveer Hussain Pathan, Saima Jee, Jibran Dar, Sheikh Imtiyaz, and several other party workers and activists.