Srinagar, Apr 29: In a move to tackle heavy patient rush, the Associated Hospital of Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag has made online registration mandatory for cardiology consultations with Dr Shamim Iqbal, capping appointments at 150 patients per day.
An order issued by the Medical Superintendent states that no offline OPD tickets will be issued for Dr Iqbal under any circumstances, citing “huge public demand” and the impracticality of examining all patients in a single day.
The online registration portal will open every Thursday for booking appointments.
The decision follows a meeting with the Head of Department, Cardiology, held on April 27 to streamline OPD services.
The cardiology OPD will function from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm on scheduled days, currently Fridays.
To further manage overcrowding, the hospital has directed the Medical Records Department to immediately implement a token system across all OPDs, with patient entry strictly regulated as per token numbers.
Staff, including security personnel, have been asked to ensure strict compliance.
The order warns that any deviation will be viewed seriously and says the measures are aimed at improving patient care and ensuring efficient hospital administration.
JAMMU, Apr 29: Senior KP leader and general secretary, Vishaw Kashmiri Samaj, MK Yogi has expressed deep anguish over the continued neglect and lack of justice for the displaced Kashmiri Pandit community, which has been living in exile for the past 37 years.
Addressing a meeting today, M K Yogi said that despite decades of suffering, neither the Central Government nor the Jammu & Kashmir administration has provided a comprehensive rehabilitation plan or adequate compensation for the losses suffered by the community, including homes, properties, agriculture, horticulture, and businesses.
Highlighting the harsh realities of displacement, he said the community has moved from tents to one-room accommodations and later to colonies, yet continues to live without dignity, stability, or a clear sense of belonging.
“Today, I stand in a situation where I have no permanent home, no stable shelter, no proper address, and no identity of belonging. Even after 37 years, my voter card is linked to Kashmir, while my Aadhaar card reflects a Jammu address. I am left wondering-where do I belong, what should I do, whom should I approach, and who will listen to me?” he stated.
Yogi further expressed frustration over repeated bureaucratic procedures imposed on migrants, stating that they are continuously asked to fill forms and submit affidavits despite their prolonged displacement.
“If it is already known that we have been living outside our homeland for nearly four decades, why are we still being forced to prove our identity and suffering again and again? Why is this burden repeatedly placed upon us?” he questioned.
Srinagar, Apr 29: The Sher-e-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS), Soura, has ordered a comprehensive restructuring of its Department of Emergency Medicine, introducing a zonal system, fixed staffing patterns, and strict limits on patient stay.
The directions were issued through an official communication following a meeting of the Emergency Medical Board, aimed at ensuring smoother functioning of the department and improving patient care.
A key directive states that no patient shall remain in the emergency wing beyond 72 hours under any circumstances.
According to the communication, the Department of Emergency Medicine will now be organised into three zones—Red, Orange, and Green—to enable proper patient categorisation and deliver care based on clinical requirements.
In the Medical Triage area, six DM or post-DM senior residents will be deployed on a rotational basis, with at least two present at any given time.
Triage services will operate daily from 8:00 am to 12:00 midnight, including Sundays, in two shifts.
The Reception Area will be managed by non-DM senior residents from the Department of Emergency Medicine in three shifts, with two senior residents per shift.
They will serve as the first point of contact for evaluation and initial management of patients.
The Red Zone (Outer Reception–Critical Care Area), comprising 12 beds for critically ill patients, will be staffed by eight postgraduate doctors from the Department of General Medicine (second- and third-year PGs).
Two postgraduate doctors will be deployed per shift across three shifts in a 24-hour cycle, ensuring continuous monitoring and stabilisation of critical patients until they are shifted to the respective specialty units.
The stay period in the Red Zone has been restricted to 1–2 hours.
The Orange Zone (Inner Reception–Intermediate Care Area) will function round the clock under non-DM senior residents on a shift basis, supported by junior residents for sampling and monitoring vital parameters.
At any given time, two senior residents and four junior residents will be present. The stay period in this zone will be less than 24 hours.
The Green Zone (Medical Observation Ward), functioning on the pattern of a General Medicine ward, will be managed by postgraduate students along with senior residents as per routine ward protocols.
At any point, one senior resident and one postgraduate doctor will be present. The stay period in the Green Zone will be less than 72 hours.
The directions reiterate that no patient shall remain in the emergency area beyond 72 hours, and any deviation must be reported immediately to the Director SKIMS and the Executive Officer.
Further, the Control Room has been tasked with submitting daily census reports to the concerned Heads of Departments and the Director SKIMS, clearly indicating patient details, duration of stay, and the name of the consultant under whose care the patient has been admitted.
The order also mandates that evening rounds in the Department of Emergency Medicine be compulsorily conducted by senior residents.
Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Apr 29: In a major crackdown more than 296 drug peddlers have been arrested and over 281 cases registered under the NDPS Act across Kashmir, under the ongoing anti-drug campaign in Jammu and Kashmir.
The figures were shared during a high-level review meeting co-chaired by IGP Kashmir V.K. Birdi and the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Anshul Garg at the Police Control Room (PCR) here, to assess the progress of the 100-day anti-drug initiative, Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyaan.
The campaign, launched by the Lieutenant Governor as a time-bound and outcome-oriented initiative, aims to intensify the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking across the Union Territory, with directions to all departments and enforcement agencies to adopt a zero-tolerance approach against drug peddling.
The meeting was attended by all range Deputy Inspectors General of Kashmir, all Deputy Commissioners of the Kashmir zone, all district Senior Superintendents of Police, the Joint Director Police Headquarters and other senior officers.
District Senior Superintendents of Police briefed the seniors on the ongoing operations against drug networks and peddlers.
They reported that sustained enforcement under the NDPS Act led to the arrest of more than 296 drug peddlers, registration of over 281 cases, and identification of key hotspots.
The officers further informed that around 460 awareness programmes have been organised to sensitise the public, especially students, about the harmful effects of drug abuse.
Illegal cultivation of contraband spread over about 15 kanals of land has been destroyed, while several chemist shops found violating drug regulations were sealed during enforcement drives.
Properties linked to drug trafficking have also been identified and attached under relevant legal provisions.
Deputy Commissioners briefed the chair on district-level measures under the campaign, highlighting intensified awareness activities in educational institutions, panchayats and vulnerable areas, along with strengthened coordination with line departments.
The IGP Kashmir stressed the need for sustained and coordinated efforts among law enforcement agencies to dismantle drug networks and curb substance abuse.
He called for strict action against offenders, strengthening of intelligence-based operations, and effective prosecution to ensure higher conviction rates.
The Divisional Commissioner Kashmir underscored the importance of a multi-sectoral approach involving civil administration, health departments, educational institutions and civil society organisations.
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 29: The Inspector General of Police, Jammu Zone, Bhim Sen Tuti, has issued promotion orders elevating 173 Head Constables (HCs) to the rank of Assistant Sub-Inspectors (ASIs).
Extending his congratulations, the IGP Jammu Zone lauded the promoted officials and acknowledged the support of their families.
He expressed confidence that the newly promoted ASIs will continue to discharge their duties with greater enthusiasm, integrity and professionalism, thereby bringing pride to the department and contributing positively to the society.
Dignitaries during the annual day celebration of J&K Ex-Services Welfare Association Kathua on Wednesday.
Excelsior Correspondent
KATHUA, Apr 29: J&K Ex-Services Welfare Association Kathua today celebrated its 10th annual day by organising a function.
Dr. Bharat Bhushan, MLA Kathua was the chief guest on this occasion while Sub Arjun Singh Rathore, National president of the Federation of Veterans Association from Jaipur and Advocate Shish Ram Yadav, general secretary of the Federation of Veterans Association were guests of honour.
Family members of the martyrs, war widows, Veer Naries and ex-servicemen of District Kathua took part in the function along with members of Sabka Sainik Association District Pathankot, United Front of Ex-servicemen Welfare Society District Pathankot, Fight for Right Association District Jammu and Ex-servicemen Social Welfare Association District Samba.
Speaking on the occasion, Sub Arjun Singh Rathore highlighted various issues related with war widows, Veer Naries and ex-servicemen and strongly stressed the Government of India to speed up the process of implementation of 8th CPC and hold meetings with the representatives of ex-servicemen organizations working all over India so that due care be taken for finalization of pay commission to avoid pay/pension anomalies after its implementation.
Capt Gian Singh Pathania, chairman of the Association and Hav Manohar Singh, president of the Association also spoke on the occasion.
After listening to the grievances of ex-servicemen and Veer Naries, MLA Dr. Bharat Bhushan assured all possible steps for the redressal of these grievances on priority basis.
He also honoured the family members of martyrs, war widows and all Veer Naries who participated in the annual day function.
Capt Balbir Singh Jasrotia-vice chairman of the Association delivered vote of thanks.
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 29: In a major crackdown against drug trafficking under the ongoing “Nasha Mukt Jammu & Kashmir Abhiyan,” police across several districts of Jammu today arrested multiple drug peddlers in separate operations and recovered significant quantities of heroin and cannabis.
In Rajouri district, a youth was arrested from the Thudi area during routine patrolling. Police intercepted a youth moving under suspicious circumstances and recovered 5.45 grams of heroin from his possession. The accused has been identified as Mehroz Azam, son of Mohd Azam, a resident of Thudi. A case FIR No. 203/2026 under relevant sections of the NDPS Act has been registered.
Meanwhile, in a series of operations, police arrested five drug peddlers in four separate cases. At Battal Naka, a police team intercepted an Alto car (JK20-0752) and recovered 5.14 grams of heroin from the driver, identified as Irfan Ali of Jagti, Nagrota, Jammu.
In another incident near Baley Bridge, Roun Domail, police apprehended Rajinder Sharma of Nagrota Jagti after he attempted to flee. A search led to the recovery of 2.52 grams of heroin.
At Garnai Chowk on the National Highway, a Tata Tiago (JK14L-2572) was intercepted by Police Station Rehambal. During the search, 6.75 grams of heroin was recovered from the driver Abhishek Gupta and co-passenger Ishan Khajuria, both residents of Udhampur.
In a separate case, police arrested Dheeraj Sharma of Jib, Udhampur and recovered 2.54 grams of heroin from his possession.
In Katra, police apprehended two drug peddlers during a naka at Balni Bridge.
A scooty (JK20D-1997) was intercepted and upon checking, 35 small packets of cannabis weighing approximately 158 grams were recovered.
The accused were identified as Kaka Kumar and Robin, both residents of Paharganj, Katra. FIR No. 130/2026 under sections 8/20/29 NDPS Act has been registered at Police Station Katra.
The operation was conducted under the supervision of SDPO Katra Dr Bhishm Dubey.
In Kathua district, police recovered approximately 17.71 grams of heroin near Kendriya Vidyalaya, Dhanore, under Police Station Lakhanpur limits.
Acting on specific input, the police team apprehended Naveen Kumar of Dhanore. FIR No. 40/2026 under sections 8/21/22 NDPS Act has been registered and further investigation is underway.
In a significant action in Samba district, police attached a residential “Kacha Kulla” belonging to a notorious drug peddler Abdul Habib alias Bheem, currently lodged in Central Jail Kot Bhalwal under the PITNDPS Act. The property, located at Badheri Nanak Chak, was identified as illegally acquired through drug trafficking.
The attachment was carried out under sections 68(E) and 68(F) of the NDPS Act, marking a strong step towards dismantling the financial networks of drug smugglers.
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Apr 29: All Jandiyal Sabha is holding its biannual congregation at the Devsthan of Baba Sehejnath on 1st May. The program will start at 7 AM with Havan. Flag hoisting will be done at 8.30 AM and it will be followed by Patal Puja. Bhandara will be held at 10 AM.
The annual congregation of Phawa Mahajan Biradari will be held on May 1 at Bawa Kailakh Dev Temple, Thathar (Bantalab). The programme will commence with Hawan and conclude with Bhandara.
The congregation of Baba Kahan Dev, Mandi (Ranjan) is being held on May 1 at Baba Ji ki Mandi, Ranjan in tehsil Bhalwal of Jammu district. Hawan will be performed from 10 AM to 12 noon, followed by Puranahuti. Langer will be served to the devotees from 1 PM to 4 PM.
NEW DELHI, Apr 29: Several exit polls on Wednesday predicted a thumping victory for the BJP in Assam and a clear edge for the party over the ruling TMC in West Bengal, while projecting a return of the DMK government in Tamil Nadu and a comeback by the Congress-led UDF in Kerala after 10 years.
The pollsters also forecast a return to power for the AINRC-led NDA government in Puducherry.
Axis My India predicted a sweep for the BJP in Assam, forecasting 88-100 seats for the BJP and its allies and 24-36 seats for the Congress and its partners.
People’s Pulse predicted that the NDA would get 68-72 seats while the Congress plus would secure in the range of 22-26 seats.
Matrize said the NDA is likely to get between 85-95 seats and the Congress and its allies 25-32. The Assam assembly has 126 seats with the magic mark being 64.
In Kerala, Axis My India forecast that the UDF would get 78-90 seats, LDF 49-62 and NDA 0-3.
People’s Pulse predicted that the Congress-led UDF would get 75-85 seats, the LDF 55-65 and the NDA 0-3.
Matrize forecast 60-65 seats for the LDF, 70-75 seats for the UDF and 3-5 seats for the NDA. Kerala Assembly has a total of 140 seats with the magic mark being 71.
In West Bengal, the People’s Pulse exit poll predicted that the TMC would get 177-187 seats, BJP 95-110, Left Front 0-1 and the Congress 1-3.
Matrize, however, predicted a BJP edge in the state, and said it is likely to get 146-161 seats. It said the TMC would get 125-140 seats.
P-Marq predicted 150-175 for the BJP and 118-138 to the TMC.
West Bengal has a total of 294 seats with the majority mark being 148.
In Tamil Nadu, the People’s Pulse predicted 125-145 for the DMK-led alliance, 65-80 for AIADMK-BJP and 18-24 for TVK.
Matrize forecast that the DMK-Congress would get 122-132, NDA 87-100 and TVK 10-12.
The Tamil Nadu has a total of 234 seats with the magic mark being 118.
Most exit polls have had a chequered history and have been off the mark on several occasions in the past.
In Puducherry, Axis My India predicted 16-20 seats for the NDA and 6-8 for the DMK-Congress. It said the TVK is likely to get 2-4 seats in the assembly. There are 30 elected seats in Puducherry.
The counting of votes for all the five assemblies — West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala and Assam — will be taken up on May 4.
Polls were conducted in a single phase in Assam, Kerala, Puducherry and Tamil Nadu. West Bengal saw two-phase polling on April 23 and 29.
On April 9, Assam, Kerala and Puducherry went to polls. Assam and Puducherry surpassed their highest-ever poll participation by recording a voter turnout of 85.38 per cent and 89.83 per cent respectively.
Tamil Nadu went to polls on April 23 along with the first phase of polls in West Bengal. Tamil Nadu with 84.69 per cent recorded their highest-ever voter turnout in Assembly polls since Independence.
In the first phase, West Bengal had recorded a record 91.78 per cent voter turnout.
While the BJP is seeking to retain power in Assam and Puducherry, where it is in an alliance government with All India N R Congress, the Congress is looking to wrest power from its rival in both these places.
In Kerala, the Congress-led UDF is seeking to replace the LDF government that is in power, while in Tamil Nadu, the DMK-led alliance is looking to retain power by thwarting the challenge from AIADMK-BJP and the debutant party — Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam that is led by actor-turned-politician Vijay.
The Mamata Banerjee-led TMC is looking to retain West Bengal and thwart the challenge from the BJP. (Agencies)
JAMMU, Apr 29: The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, today launched the book, “Healer in Exile: The Untold Story of Dr. Sushil Razdan” authored by his son Sachin Razdan.
Addressing the gathering, the Lieutenant Governor said that Dr. Sushil Razdan stands among India’s leading neurologists and his contributions in the medical field remain unmatched.
“The story of Dr. Sushil Razdan’s life conveys a significant lesson of committing yourself to the selfless service of others. It is a sacred duty to place the needs of the person before you above your own and see society not merely as a city or village, but as a community of responsibilities, where true fulfilment lies in dedicating one’s strength to the care of its most vulnerable population,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor said that the central message of this book is profound and what makes a doctor truly exceptional is not only skill in treatment, but the ability to serve with compassion.
Today, some experts in healthcare claim that artificial intelligence will transform the healthcare sector and it will deliver treatments with flawless precision. I hold a different view. Technology can indeed support diagnosis and treatment in important ways, but it cannot replace the spirit of service. No instrument of AI can embody or substitute this essence of care with compassion,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor said that Dr. Sushil Razdan bore the anguish of being uprooted from his soil. He said the pain of leaving behind roots and cherished homes defies expression and like countless fellow Kashmiri Pandits, Dr. Razdan endured this sorrow, yet he remained steadfast, striving to preserve his heritage, values and spirit of self-less service.
“Dr. Sushil Razdan has touched millions of lives, ensuring with utter devotion that patients recover to nurture families and contribute to nation-building,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
