News for 'Chief Minister Omar Abdullah'

LG-Omar clash looms as CM calls urgent meet over JKAS transfers

LG-Omar clash looms as CM calls urgent meet over JKAS transfers

Rediff.com3 Apr 2025

In a significant administrative reshuffle, Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha ordered the transfer and posting of 48 J-K Administrative Service (JKAS) officers, potentially creating friction with the National Conference-led government in the Union Territory. The move, seen by many as an attempt by the LG to assert control over the bureaucracy, includes the transfer of 14 additional deputy commissioners and 26 sub-divisional magistrates. The timing of the order, coinciding with the elected government's wait for approval on business rules, raises concerns over power dynamics in the region.

Centre tries to curtail powers of new J-K govt, CM, alleges Omar; MHA denies

Centre tries to curtail powers of new J-K govt, CM, alleges Omar; MHA denies

Rediff.com5 Oct 2024

The strong statement from Union Home Minister Amit Shah's office came after former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah asked bureaucrats in the Union Territory to resist any pressure to "further disempower" the incoming elected government.

NC cries foul as Omar Abdullah is questioned by ED in J&K Bank case

NC cries foul as Omar Abdullah is questioned by ED in J&K Bank case

Rediff.com7 Apr 2022

The Enforcement Directorate questioned former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah for five hours on Thursday in connection with a case related to the purchase of a building by the J&K Bank about 12 years ago when he was in office, officials said in New Delhi.

Sonam Wangchuk released after govt revokes detention

Sonam Wangchuk released after govt revokes detention

Rediff.com6 days ago

The Indian government has revoked the detention of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, who was held under the National Security Act following protests in Ladakh.

New Agniveers Walk With Heads Held High

New Agniveers Walk With Heads Held High

Rediff.com5 Jun 2025

On June 5, 2025, the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry Regiment Centre in Srinagar held the Passing Out Parade of its fifth batch of Agniveers.

Student refuses to accept award from Omar Abdullah

Student refuses to accept award from Omar Abdullah

Rediff.com29 Apr 2009

Abdullah faced an embarrassing situation at the annual day function of the Acharya Shri Chander College of Medical Sciences in Jammu, as an awardee refused to accept an award from him. Not only this, the awardee then used the platform to air the grievances of student community, much to the chagrin of CM.

Abrogation Article 370 @ 6 Years: Delhi Plays Cat-and-Mouse Game

Abrogation Article 370 @ 6 Years: Delhi Plays Cat-and-Mouse Game

Rediff.com5 Aug 2025

New Delhi looks to be testing Omar's endurance with unconcealed glee, never feeling shy to bite whenever a moment comes its way. After all, ruling the country's only Muslim-majority UT/state has been the BJP's burning desire, points out Mohammad Sayeed Malik, the distinguished commentator on Kashmir affairs.

Don't see 'good days' yet: Omar Abdullah on Union Budget

Don't see 'good days' yet: Omar Abdullah on Union Budget

Rediff.com11 Jul 2014

Omar welcomed the announcement of setting up of an IIT in Jammu and expressed hope that something similar would be announced for Kashmir to maintain regional balance.

Omar Faces Protest From His Own MP

Omar Faces Protest From His Own MP

Rediff.com23 Dec 2024

National Conference Srinagar MP Aga Ruhullah Mehdi, along with Peoples Democratic Party leaders Waheed-ur-Rehman Parra, Sheikh Khursheed and others, led a peaceful protest on Monday, December 23, 2024, outside Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's residence in Srinagar.

Assembly bypolls in J-K, 6 states to be held on Nov 11

Assembly bypolls in J-K, 6 states to be held on Nov 11

Rediff.com6 Oct 2025

The counting of votes will be done on November 14, along with the Bihar assembly election votes.

If you don't trust EVMs...: Omar slams ally Cong, echoes BJP's defence

If you don't trust EVMs...: Omar slams ally Cong, echoes BJP's defence

Rediff.com15 Dec 2024

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has criticized the Congress party's objections to Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), echoing the BJP's stance that questioning the machines' integrity is only acceptable when losing elections. Abdullah argues that parties should not contest elections if they don't trust the voting process. His comments highlight the growing friction between the National Conference and the Congress, their recent alliance partners in Jammu and Kashmir.

Fashion show in Gulmarg during Ramzan sparks outrage; Omar seeks report

Fashion show in Gulmarg during Ramzan sparks outrage; Omar seeks report

Rediff.com9 Mar 2025

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has ordered a probe after a fashion show in the ski resort of Gulmarg during the holy month of Ramzan sparked widespread criticism. The event, which featured semi-nude models, was widely condemned by religious leaders and activists who accused the organizers of disregarding local sensitivities and disrespecting religious values. The Chief Minister has promised to take appropriate action once the report is submitted within 24 hours. The incident has sparked a debate about the balance between tourism promotion and the preservation of cultural and religious values in the region.

Modi inaugurates Z-Morh tunnel in J-K

Modi inaugurates Z-Morh tunnel in J-K

Rediff.com13 Jan 2025

Modi also met the construction workers who worked meticulously amid harsh conditions to complete the tunnel.

Bring back J-K's part under China's occupation too, Omar tells BJP

Bring back J-K's part under China's occupation too, Omar tells BJP

Rediff.com6 Mar 2025

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has criticized BJP leaders for accusing the National Conference (NC) of insulting Maharaja Hari Singh, the last ruler of the state. Abdullah challenged the BJP to provide evidence of such insults, while highlighting their own actions that he claims have undermined the Maharaja's legacy. He also called on the BJP-led government to retrieve the part of Jammu and Kashmir under Chinese occupation if they are serious about reclaiming the territory under Pakistan's control.

J-K is incomplete without PoK: Rajnath

J-K is incomplete without PoK: Rajnath

Rediff.com14 Jan 2025

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for his efforts to reduce the distance between the hearts of people in Jammu and Kashmir and Delhi. Singh asserted that the BJP government treats Delhi and Kashmir equally, emphasizing a commitment to bridge the gap between the regions. He criticized Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) Prime Minister Chaudhry Anwarul Haq for his remarks against India and reiterated the importance of PoK as an integral part of Jammu and Kashmir.

Failed as CM, no 'cheap politics' on Pahalgam attack: Omar

Failed as CM, no 'cheap politics' on Pahalgam attack: Omar

Rediff.com29 Apr 2025

The Jammu and Kashmir assembly unanimously passed a resolution on Monday expressing shock and anguish over the terrorist attack in Pahalgam and resolved to fight resolutely to defeat the nefarious designs to disturb communal harmony and hinder progress.

PM praised Omar for governance: Farooq Abdullah

PM praised Omar for governance: Farooq Abdullah

Rediff.com15 Sep 2010

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has praised Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for his governance, Union Minister and President of National Conference Farooq Abdullah said on Thursday.

11 dead as cloudburst, landslide hit J-K's Reasi, Ramban

11 dead as cloudburst, landslide hit J-K's Reasi, Ramban

Rediff.com30 Aug 2025

The officials identified the deceased as Ashwani Sharma (24), his brother Dwarka Nath (55), niece Virta Devi (26) and their guest Om Raj (38), a resident of Banshara in Rajgarh. The rescuers are searching for Sharma's sister-in-law, Bidya Devi (55).

Omar Abdullah seeks judicial probe on Kashmir unrest

Omar Abdullah seeks judicial probe on Kashmir unrest

Rediff.com17 Aug 2016

All opposition parties from J&K to apprise President of Kashmir situation.

Will Farooq Abdullah Gift Omar NC Mantle?

Will Farooq Abdullah Gift Omar NC Mantle?

Rediff.com5 Dec 2022

Last month, Dr Farooq Abdullah announced that he would step down as president of the National Conference in December, saying it is time to hand over the mantle to the new generation.

Farooq Abdullah's message to Pakistan after Gulmarg attack

Farooq Abdullah's message to Pakistan after Gulmarg attack

Rediff.com25 Oct 2024

National Conference president Farooq Abdullah on Friday said attacks like the one in Gulmarg would continue to occur until India and Pakistan found a way to be friends and that would end Jammu and Kashmir's troubles.

Omar decides to step down as caretaker chief minister

Omar decides to step down as caretaker chief minister

Rediff.com8 Jan 2015

The political impasse in Jammu and Kashmir has taken a new turn with Omar Abdullah deciding not to continue as caretaker chief minister, arguing that the state needed a full-time administrator to deal with the situation along the border with Pakistan.

'Enemies Of Peace Will Never Dictate Our Resolve'

'Enemies Of Peace Will Never Dictate Our Resolve'

Rediff.com28 May 2025

In an attempt to revive tourism in Kashmir after it was severely affected after the Pahalgam terror attack, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah met prominent tour and travel operators from Maharashtra and Gujarat at a Pahalgam hotel on Tuesday, May 27, 2025.

Omar chooses 'giant killer' former BJP leader as his deputy

Omar chooses 'giant killer' former BJP leader as his deputy

Rediff.com16 Oct 2024

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday chose party leader Surender Choudhary from Nowshera in Jammu as his deputy, saying he did so to give a voice to people of the region and make his government inclusive.

'Cong must earn': Omar on INDIA bloc leadership debate

'Cong must earn': Omar on INDIA bloc leadership debate

Rediff.com14 Dec 2024

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has expressed concerns about the Congress party's leadership role within the INDIA bloc, raising questions about their ability to justify their position. Abdullah highlighted a sense of disquiet among some allies, who feel the Congress isn't doing enough to earn its leadership position. While praising Sonia Gandhi's leadership, he also criticized the alliance's lack of consistent engagement and called for more structured communication to address potential disagreements. Abdullah's comments suggest underlying tensions within the opposition alliance, particularly regarding the Congress's electoral performance and seat distribution strategies.

From fear to footfalls: Kashmir tourism's slow return after Pahalgam

From fear to footfalls: Kashmir tourism's slow return after Pahalgam

Rediff.com28 Dec 2025

The Pahalgam attack in Jammu and Kashmir impacted tourism, but recovery efforts are underway with government initiatives and events to promote the region and boost MICE tourism.

Not only in Ramzan, but...: Omar on Gulmarg fashion show

Not only in Ramzan, but...: Omar on Gulmarg fashion show

Rediff.com10 Mar 2025

Amid controversy over the Gulmarg fashion show held during the month of Ramzan, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Monday said his government would have never given permission for such an event in any month of the year.

Brush With Death

Brush With Death

Rediff.com1 Aug 2025

Glimpses from India and around the world that will make you smile and cry.

Mehbooba, Omar under 'house arrest'; baseless, says LG

Mehbooba, Omar under 'house arrest'; baseless, says LG

Rediff.com11 Dec 2023

Meanwhile, police did not allow journalists to gather near National Conference (NC) president Farooq Abdullah and vice-president Omar Abdullah's residence at Gupkar here, officials said.

5-yr-old killed as landslide hits school in Poonch

5-yr-old killed as landslide hits school in Poonch

Rediff.com21 Jul 2025

A student was killed and five others injured when a landslide triggered by heavy rains hit a government school in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district.

COVID-19 vaccines don't belong to any political party: Omar Abdullah

COVID-19 vaccines don't belong to any political party: Omar Abdullah

Rediff.com2 Jan 2021

The more people get vaccinated, the better it will be for the country and the economy, the National Conference vice president said.

Mysterious illness: J-K village declared 'containment zone'

Mysterious illness: J-K village declared 'containment zone'

Rediff.com23 Jan 2025

In view of the 'unidentified illness' in Rajouri's Badhal village, the village has been declared a containment zone, and the affected families' homes sealed; a few patients brought to Government Medical College (GMC) in Rajouri on Thursday.

Road ahead for J&K's youngest chief minister

Road ahead for J&K's youngest chief minister

Rediff.com3 Jan 2009

Young National Conference Chief Omar Abdullah, who is set to don the mantle of chief minister on Monday, has a difficult road ahead with terrorism as well as growing regional and urban-rural divide in Jammu and Kashmir certain to be high on his agenda.

Over 50 detained in Hazratbal Ashoka emblem vandalism case

Over 50 detained in Hazratbal Ashoka emblem vandalism case

Rediff.com7 Sep 2025

Police have detained over 50 people for questioning after a plaque with the Ashoka emblem was vandalized at the Hazratbal shrine in Srinagar. The incident has sparked controversy, with political parties and religious figures expressing outrage.

People found their voice after passage of Art 370 resolution: Omar

People found their voice after passage of Art 370 resolution: Omar

Rediff.com9 Nov 2024

Notwithstanding protests by the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party, he said the first session of the newly elected Jammu and Kashmir Assembly is "short in duration but historic in terms of agenda".

Jammu erupts over Urdu-only rule for recruitment exam; BJP warns govt

Jammu erupts over Urdu-only rule for recruitment exam; BJP warns govt

Rediff.com14 Jul 2025

The BJP legislative party staged a protest demanding the revocation of a government order mandating Urdu as a compulsory language for the Naib Tehsildar recruitment examination in Jammu and Kashmir, calling the order discriminatory and detrimental to the interests of Jammu's youth.

Bypolls: BJP wins Nagrota, MNF retains Dampa, Congress wins Anta

Bypolls: BJP wins Nagrota, MNF retains Dampa, Congress wins Anta

Rediff.com14 Nov 2025

Results and trends from recent bypolls across eight assembly seats in India show wins for MNF in Mizoram, BJP in Jammu and Kashmir, and Congress leading in Telangana and Rajasthan.

Ethiopians Abate, Yeshi triumph in Mumbai Marathon

Ethiopians Abate, Yeshi triumph in Mumbai Marathon

Rediff.com18 Jan 2026

Ethiopians' domination in the Mumbai Marathon continued as Tadu Abate Deme and Yeshi Kalayu Chekole won the men's and women's elite race titles respectively.

Punjab attack eerily similar to Jammu attacks: Omar Abdullah

Punjab attack eerily similar to Jammu attacks: Omar Abdullah

Rediff.com27 Jul 2015

"The timing of the attack, methodology and location are all eerily similar to attacks in the border belt of Jammu," said Abdullah.

J-K: Vaishno Devi landslide toll rises to 34

J-K: Vaishno Devi landslide toll rises to 34

Rediff.com27 Aug 2025

The death toll in the Vaishno Devi landslide has gone up to 32, officials said on Wednesday, a day after disaster struck the route on the hilltop shrine in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district.