Aqib Rashid..
Shopian Police organized a Martyrs Cricket Tournament in the district to honor the sacrifices of brave personnel who laid down their lives in the line of duty. The event brought together local youth, sports lovers, and security officials in a spirit of unity and remembrance. Once known as one of the most sensitive and militancy-affected districts of Kashmir before 2019, Shopian had witnessed years of unrest and violence. However, following the abrogation of Article 370, the situation has changed significantly.
Ahmed Chaudhary, ASP Shopian Rameez Rashid Bhat DySP DAR Mohd Ashraf, DySP Zainapora Waseem Mahmood, SHO Zainapora Shahbaz Ahmad, and CRPF Commandant Mohammad Fayaz attended the Martyrs Cricket Tournament in Shopian, appreciating the players’ spirit and emphasizing the importance of sports in promoting peace and unity.
Over the past few years, Shopian has transformed into one of the most peaceful and progressive districts in South Kashmir. The improved security environment has allowed the police and administration to focus on community engagement, youth empowerment, and sports development. The cricket tournament, organized under the banner of “Play for Peace,” aims to channel the energy of young people into positive activities and strengthen the bond between the police and the public.
Such events not only promote sportsmanship but also highlight thegg remarkable transformation of Shopian — from a zone of conflict to a region embracing peace, progress, and normalcy.



