23 Encroachers Of Iconic Shah Kul in Srinagar Face HC Notice

23 Encroachers Of Iconic Shah Kul in Srinagar Face HC Notice

Srinagar- The High Court of J&K and Ladakh has issued notice to 23 alleged encroachers of ‘Shah Kul’, a historical canal and a national monument which had been the main source of supplying water to Nishat Gardens since the time of Mughal Emperor Jahangir.

Hearing a Public Interest Litigation, a division bench of Chief Justice Arun Palli and Justice Rajnesh Oswal passed the directions following an application in this regard.

While seeking reply by these 23 persons by September 3, the court directed that the notices be served through the Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar.

At this point, government advocate Jehangir Ahmad Dar undertook to facilitate the process to ensure that all of them are served before September 3.

“In the meanwhile, the respondent authorities shall also furnish the complete details/ particulars of even other encroachers, named in annexure-III appended to the supplementary compliance report furnished by the respondents within two days”. The court ordered that interim direction, if any, passed in the PIL shall continue till the next date.

The PIL was filed in 2023 and seeks the court’s intervention for the removal of all illegal encroachments and restoration of the original status of the historical canal.

It also seeks directions for the restoration of adjoining roads allegedly encroached upon by the two private persons.

The PIL also seeks directions for constituting a high-level committee comprising of an officer of ACB and other investigation wings to investigate the gross mismanagement of the official respondents (authorities). It also seeks an investigation by CBI to inquire into the conduct of the officials in the matter.

In support of his contention, the petitioner—Mohammad Shafi— has also referred to a communication by Divisional Commissioner Kashmir to Directorate Land Records way back in 2004 that Shah Kaul has been encroached upon, resulting into loss of lakhs of rupees “because the water required for Nishat Garden is being now lifted through mechanical pumps”.

The Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, had sought the removal of all types of encroachments on the canal and directed appropriate action against the “culprits”. “However, no action has been taken,” says the petitioner.

Srinagar- Delhi Public School Srinagar student Mohammad Rafan Bhat secured a silver medal at the Inter-District Provincial Level U-19 Boys Taekwondo Championship. The tournament concluded on August 24.

Rafan, a student of Class 12th, showcased exceptional skill and dedication throughout the competition, ultimately earning him a second-place finish in a highly competitive field. His achievement is a testament to his relentless training and the comprehensive sports programs offered by the school.

Chairman of DPS Srinagar, Vijay Dhar said the school is immensely proud of Mohammad Rafan Bhat for his remarkable performance.

Principal Shafaq Afshan also extended her congratulations, stating, “Mohammad Rafan Bhat’s silver medal is a well-deserved recognition of his talent and perseverance.” (KNO)