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By Dinesh Manhotra Although the campaign for the by-elections of the Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha seat has yet not ....more Total
bander-bant Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 3: Reiterating his charges on the National Conference, (NC) Government, the former Union Home Minister and Peoples ....more BJP
blames NC, Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 3: Shifting all blames on the successive governments for the hardships being faced by the inhabitants of kandi belt, Bharatiya Janata.......more Fernandes gives away first prize to J&K tableaux Excelsior correspondent JAMMU, Feb 3: First prize, for presentation of tableaux in the Republic Day celebration at New Delhi, was given...more DD all set to commission its station at Leh LEH, Feb 3: Defying the sub-zero temperatures of Ladakh, Doordarshan is all set to commission its station at Leh, arguably the world’s highest TV station. ...more |
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Excelsior Correspondent LEH, Feb 3: A tearful adieu was bade by hundreds of people including employees of Leh district when the mortal remains of a youthful engineer PT .......more Rajni Saxena inaugurates police mela Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 3: The J&K Police Wives Welfare Association (PWWA) today organized a one-day Mela at Gulshan ground, Jammu that attracted a large number of people from different walks of life......more Peerzada
seeks people’s Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 3: The Minister for Forests, Environment and Wildlife, Peerzada Ghulam Ahmad has sought active cooperation........more PoK
refugees Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 3: SOS an organisation of PoK refugees has welcomed the Supreme Court decision to stay the Resettlement Bill........more |
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By Dinesh Manhotra Although the campaign for the by-elections of the Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha seat has yet not generated much heat, electioneering in the region has been slowly getting momentum. Instead of holding big public meetings, candidates of main-stream political parties are making every possible efforts to lure the voters by their assurances and promises. With attacks and counter attacks, political parties are trying to garner support of more than 15 lakh voters who are apparently indifferent. While the theme of the campaign of Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP), Congress, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Bahujan Samaj Party is only attacking National Conference Government, development and achievements of the state government are the poll planks of ruling party candidate. Popular as ‘atriculated’ and ‘seasoned’ Gujjar leader, National Conference candidate Choudhary Talib Hussain is banking on the achievements of State Government. A Law Graduate from prestigious Aligarh Muslim University, Ch Talib Hussain has vast political experience. During his student life he was in fore-front to highlight woes of students of J&K. He served as president of the J&K Students Welfare Forum Aligarh Muslim University. For three consecutive terms, he remained MLA from 1972 to 1987 and served the state as Minister in two terms. He remained Minister from 1980 to 1983 and 1984 to 1986. Facing stiff challenges from his rivals, Ch. Talib Hussain had contested last Assembly election from Rajouri seat on Congress ticket and lost by a very narrow margin. In his conversation with EXCELSIOR, NC candidate pledged to strive hard for the all round development of Jammu region and to remove regional imbalances, if any. Excerpts: * On which issues you are contesting elections ? All round development of entire Jammu region is my main poll plank. Being a resident of hilly backward Rajouri district, I am very much aware of the problems and hardships being faced by the residents of Jammu region. I will strive hard to mitigate these miseries. Restoration of peace in this trouble torn state is also another important issue of my poll campaign. And most important of all, I am highlighting achievements of the National Conference Government to get support of the people. * Campaign of all your rivals is revolving around targetting your party. Donot you think that anti-incumbency factor will effect your prospects ? I donot think so. Our opponents have launched a vicious campaign against our party. One thing I want to make it clear that there is no anti-incumbency factor. People are very much aware that situation was worst when NC took reign of state. Beside containing militancy to some extent, state government has also taken effective step to rebuild the virtually shattered economy of the state. People are very much aware that fight against terrorism and development of the state are the two important things and only National Conference can accomplish these tasks. * Discrimination with Jammu is also one of the issues in the election. Some candidates are contesting the election on separate state plank. What is your stand ? Neither I nor my party scribe to the idea of separate state. I do agree that some areas of the state are under-developed but I stoutly refuse the allegation of discrimination with Jammu region. For the last five years State Government under the leadership of Dr Farooq Abdullah has made every possible effort for the equitable development of the state. But I want to make it amply clear that I will strive hard to remove the regional imbalances, if any. I will also strive hard to give equitable share to all sections of the society in all spheres of life, development and progress. * What steps you will take, if elected, for generating employment avenues and development of the Jammu region? If elected my first priorities will be acceleration of industrialisation in Jammu region. I am of the opinion that industrialisation will not only help in generating employment avenues but also help in the development of the region. I will promote job-oriented projects and industrialisation in order to alleviate the serious unemployment problem in Jammu region. Special priority will be accorded to building up of tourism infrastructure in various places in Jammu which have high potential for attracting both domestic and foreign tourists. * Inclusion of Dogri in the 8th Scheduled of Indian Constitution is a long pending demand of the people. What is your stand on this demand ? Our party has already supported this demand. I will forcefully and staunchly raise this this demand in the Parliament. * Inhabitants of border areas and refugees of 1947 from Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) have been facing hardships. How would you deal with these problems ? A large chunk of the population of border areas have been facing hardships due to firing from across the border. Lakhs of people have been displaced due to the firing. I will strive hard to mitigate their problems. As far as PoK refugees of 1947 are concerned, I will take up their issue with Union Government. |
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Total bander-bant in NC rule: Mufti Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 3: Reiterating his charges on the National Conference, (NC) Government, the former Union Home Minister and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chief, Mufti Mohammed Syed said the State Government is involved in corruption neck deep.’’ Addressing election meeting at Julaka Mohalla here this morning, the PDP leader maintained that he and his family has no personnel enimity with Dr Farooq Abdullah and his NC. But in a democracy the opposition is the voice of people and hence no responsible opposition will shirk from its duty to criticise the corrupt and misrule of the ruling Party, he elaborated. Lambasting at the NC he said there is a bander-bant in the state and corruption is on the peak as ministers take 10 per cent commission from the MLAs’ fund. The people are in distress but no body cares about them, he alleged. He said when ministers take the commission at top a wrong signal percolates in subordinate office, he said, adding under the Indira Awas Yojna instead of giving money to deserving poor people for construction of houses, the amount is paid to influential well to do people for construction of cow sheds. He alleged the NC Government has maintained such a monopoly that one minister got six of his relatives appointed in ICDS while a son of a Cabinet Minister who is a simple graduate has been appointed on Officer’s Post in Mumbai Trade Commission. Without naming Dr Farooq Abdullah he said instead of parroting "Aar Par Ki Jang", he must pay attention to internal problems. The funds be utilized for peoples welfare and not diverted to Bhathandi for construction of mansions there. Mufti Syed asserted that Jammu and Kashmir state is not only Kashmir valley but Jammu and Ladakh regions as well and every region should be given its due share for development and prosperity. He said PDP is a movement and not a party only. He promised if we come to power the Party will eradicate poverty and provide employment to one member of each family. He said the state is confronted with socio, economic problem and this war can not be fought by bombing the Alqaeda, or Advani’s hot pursuit but by changing the peoples mind set. Mufti said people are a great power in democracy and with their firm resolve they can bring a definite change in the system. "I have been raising my voice since in opposition for the rights and cause of people of the state," Mufti said and added "when in Congress I took the Party flag to every nook and corner of the state." He said when all other opposition parties were silent during Sheikh Abdullah’s rule, it was the Congress which under his (Mufti’s) leadership performed a role of healthy opposition in the state for the genuine cause of people. "I faced a stiff criticism from the ruling class at that time,but without caring for it I pursued the peoples cause" he added. He said later during the reign of Dr Farooq Abdullah the Congress intensified its struggle against the NC’s misrule again and 11 people lost their lives in this struggle. He said our struggle had yielded fruit and a vertical spilt took place in NC with Mr G M Shah and others deserting the Party but unfortunately the joining of hands by former Prime Minister, Mr Rajiv Gandhi with Dr Abdullah’s Party in 1986 the things took a critical turn. Holding the Rajiv, Farooq accord responsible for the present turmoil in the State, the PDP supreme said with this decision the people who were sick of NC rule turned towards Muslim United Front which they thought was the only alternative to NC’s misrule. This, Mr Syed said alarmed the coalition and they rigged the Assembly elections in 1987 to keep the MUF away from power. Making a strong dig at ruling NC he said its leaders do not believe in demoracy and the main cause of present crisis in the state is that NC never allowed the democracy to flourish. He said while main reason of India’s unity and integrity is the peoples faith in democratic set up which has been nurtured over the years, a total mess prevails in J&K. Mufti Syed said that he had made it clear to late Prime Minister, Mrs Indira Gandhi that he can not toe the line of NC as being an opposition leader people have many expectations from me and when "I too will follow his (Shiekh Abdullah’s) policies what answer can I give to my people." He said Mrs Gandhi after realizing our difficulties told me that go ahead and do as you like. But Rajiv Gandhi who was an inexperienced politician spoiled every thing. Lashing out at other opposition parties in the state for their dismal role, he said no body raises the peoples problems in Legislature. Even the BJP leader Shiv Charan Gupta remains mum in House and never touches any matter of public importance. He asked will democracy flourish in state where such type of leaders will be in opposition who will be always seen in CM’s chamber with their personnel applications. He alleged the BJP is also toeing the line of Congress now and questioned what happened to its slogan of "Ek Nishan, Ek Vidhan and Ek Pradhan". He said the Party leaders are also dancing to the tune of Dr Abdullah who has now put them in his another pocket. Mufti asserted that free and fair polls are only alternative to present corrupt and authoritarian regime in the state. He also appealed the people to vote for his Party candidate Master Tasaduq Hussain by rejecting both BJP and NC. "Your vote for BJP and NC candidate will make no difference for them, but it will certainly make a difference for PDP", he added. He said by defeating the NC in this by elections will spell a doom for the Party and it will be a signal for their ouster in the coming Assembly poll. He said during his meeting with Prime Minister, Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee I apprised him of the Kashmir situation and told him that when action was taken against the corrupt governments in other states of the country why not in J&K. He said perhaps this is the reason that Mr Vajpayee announced in his August 15 broadcast to nation that free and fair polls will be conducted in the state. Earlier addressing the meeting PDP, general secretary Mr Vaid Mahajan said this by election will have an impact on the coming assembly elections in the state. He asked the people that you have to vote for the change and prosperity saying not Congress and BJP but the PDP is the only alternative to NC. He ridiculed with what face BJP is opposing NC when it is in alliance with the Party at Centre. He also wanted to know what happened to BJP’s 53 year stand on certain issues. Among others who addressed the gathering include Messrs Bhushan Gupta. Party’s Jammu chief, Party secretary Daman Bhasin, Vice president youth, Ashok Sharma, Baldev Salathia, Zafar and Ved Gandhotra. |
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BJP blames NC, Cong for neglect of Jammu Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 3: Shifting all blames on the successive governments for the hardships being faced by the inhabitants of kandi belt, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has exhorted the people not to tolerate the injustice being done to them by National Conference. Addressing a series of election meetings in Nagrota and Jammu city, the BJP candidate for Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha by-elections, Dr Nirmal Singh said that it was unfortunate that these areas continue to remain neglected desperate having representation in the Cabinet. At Nagrota, Dr Singh was accorded warm reception. Speaking at public gatherings, he said that he was contesting the election to complete the unfinish task of Vaid Vishnu Dutt. " Ved Ji was our leader and we are taking inspirations from the departed leader", he said. Singh regretted that successive governments have meted out step motherly treatment with Jammu region. " Jammu region has been neglected in every sphere of life", he alleged. Prominent Gujjar leader Din Mohd Cheetah, in his address lambasted National Conference Government for diverting funds meant for the development of Gujjars and Bakerwals. The BJP candidate also had a whirl tour of areas of Jammu city including Old Janipura, Indira Colony and Patoli areas. In his speeches in these areas, Singh regretted that the area has been neglected by successive Governments. He thanked the public of the area who came to attend the election meetings and assured them that he will leave no stone unturned for providing them basic amenities. Meanwhile, BJP organizing secretary Vivek Dadkhar held series of meetings in the outskirts of Jammu city, especially in Muslim pocket. Addressing a gathering at Malik Market Narwal, Vivek accused both National Conference and Congress of neglecting the areas. Muslim leader Mohd Amin also addressed the gatherings . Former BJP Yuva Morcha chiefs Kavinder Gupta and Shamsher Singh toured Jammu west constituency in order to garner support for the party candidate for Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha by-elections. Addressing a meeting at Patoli Mangotrian, Shamsher Singh called upon the party workers to gear up so as to ensure the victory of Dr Nirmal Singh. Among others who spoke on the occasion included Kuldeep Mangotra, Baba Sharma and Arun Chibber. Meanwhile, Kuldeep Raj Gupta, senior vice president BJP while addressing various public meetings in twin districts of Poonch and Rajouri, came down heavily on Congress for its opposition to bring POTO type law in the State of Jammu and Kashmir. He condemned the inhuman act committed by the terrorists whereby the ears, nose and lips of one Mohd Hussain were chopped off. Gupta asked the people of the area to rise the occasion and strengthen the hands of security forces in combating terrorism in the State. |
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Fernandes gives away first prize to J&K tableaux Excelsior correspondent JAMMU, Feb 3: First prize, for presentation of tableaux in the Republic Day celebration at New Delhi, was given to J&K State by the Defence Minister Mr George Fernandes, at Delhi, yesterday. The award was received by Secretary J&K Academy of Art and Culture Mr Balwant Thakur. The tableaux, ‘Composite Culture of Kashmir’, was designed by eminent artist and painter Veer Munshi. In this tableaux 2002, J&K presented a concept of coexistence of the people from different faith by focussing on Hari Parbhat, a place in Valley where a temple, mosque and Gurdwara are situated nearby each other. A group of 35 artists also participated in this tableaux presentation and later they performed at Rashtrapati Bhawan in honour of the President of India, at Trimurti Bhawan in honour of the Prime Minister, in Rashtriya Rangshala in honour of the Defence Minister and at Talkatora Indoor stadium in honour of the Minister of State for Tribal Affairs of the Union Government. In Delhi, the Resident Commissioner, J&K State Mr Khursheed Ganai organised a reception in honour of the J&K tableaux artists. Those who spoke on the occasion included Vijay Bakaya, Principal Secretary, Department of Education, J&K Government, said a press release, issued here. |
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DD all set to commission its station at Leh LEH, Feb 3: Defying the sub-zero temperatures of Ladakh, Doordarshan is all set to commission its station at Leh, arguably the world’s highest TV station. This experimental transmission will be managed with the help of a lone engineer alongwith some Leh-based locals who acquired their training at AAFT in Noida, near Delhi. Besides the Director, a programme executive and an Assistant Engineer would be posted there, according to a DD release here. With the starting of Leh transmission, a long standing demand of the people of the region would be fulfilled. Intellectuals and people across the spectrum have welcomed the establishment of the station which will beam its programme from 1800 hrs to 1900 hrs on weekly basis, the release stated. Ladakh is known for its rich culture, unique landscape, colourful festivals and fun-loving people and all these aspects of their culture would be highlighted in the programmes, the release added. (UNI) |
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Excelsior Correspondent LEH, Feb 3: A tearful adieu was bade by hundreds of people including employees of Leh district when the mortal remains of a youthful engineer PT Wangtak, were consigned to the flames reciting mantras by about 120 lamas costumed in Bhudhistic religious attire. Wangtak died in Khaltsi on January 25 following a cardiac arrest. Promoted as Executive Engineer PWD in Khaltsi Sub Division only two months back, Wangtak had an eventful services as Assistant Engineer and AEE for 29 years and received a commendation award for his valuable services rendered in Nyome Sub-Division. The funeral ceremony was among others attended by Chief Executive Councilor LAHDC Thupstan Chhewang, former Union Minister P Namgial and heads of various religious, political and social organizations. In their messages, Minister of State for Ladakh Affairs Khushok Tokdan, Minister of State for Agriculture T Namgiam, Rajya Sabha Member Kushok Thiksay and MLA Teh T Dorje have conveyed their heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family for the irreparable loss. |
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Rajni Saxena inaugurates police mela Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 3: The J&K Police Wives Welfare Association (PWWA) today organized a one-day Mela at Gulshan ground, Jammu that attracted a large number of people from different walks of life. Mrs. Rajni Saxena, wife of Governor, Mr. G.C. Saxena, inaugurated the Mela. Chairperson, J&K PWWA, Mrs. Neeru Suri, wife of Director General of Police, Mr. A.K. Suri, received her at the venue of the Mela. Soon after the inauguration, Mrs. Rajni Saxena accompanied by Mrs. Neeru Suri, had a round of all the stalls and evinced keen interest in the products/wares displayed at the stalls. She also interacted with the stall operators about the preparation and marketing of their products. Special attractions had been arranged by the organizers to cater the varied tastes and interests of visitors to the Mela. There were handicrafts from different district police centres, Kashmiri embroidery and phulkari works on display for sale besides lucky dips, tambula, camel and horse rides apart from delicious snacks and musical funfair. According to a police spokesman, the sale proceeds of the Mela will go to the families of J&K police martyrs. Wives of many senior police officers were present at the Mela. Besides others, they included Mrs. Nina Bakshi, wife of Mr. Rajan Bakshi, Additional Director General of Police (Hqrs), Mrs. Vimla Sharma, wife of Mr. Gopal Sharma, Additional Director General of Police (Armed), Mrs. Jasjiet Gill, wife Mr. P.S.Gill, Additional Director General of Police (Law and Order), Mrs. Archana Raju, wife Mr. R.V.Raju, Director, Sher-i-Kashmir Police Training Academy, Udhampur. Mrs. D.R.Doley Barman, DIG (Admn Phq) was also present on the occasion. |
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Peerzada seeks people’s cooperation in preserving wetlands Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 3: The Minister for Forests, Environment and Wildlife, Peerzada Ghulam Ahmad has sought active cooperation of people and voluntary organisation in preserving the prestigious wetlands of the State. Speaking at a seminar organised to mark International Wetland Day at Indira Gandhi Nature Interpretation Centre, Manda, here, the Minster said wetlands and water bodies, that form the rich heritage of the State, play a vital role in maintenance of the ecological balance. He said wetlands are reservoirs of bio-diversity and serve as sanctuaries for migratory birds coming from Northern cooler regions to spent winters. The Minister asserted that water is one of the most important components of life supporting system on earth and said wetlands have enabled animals and people to take their sustenance’s from the land. He said, the ecological and socio-economic importance of wetlands makes it imperative to take up their conservation on priority basis. He said the wetlands support a number of food chains that form an important constituent of the eco-system. The wetlands act as material sewerage treatment plants and help in controlling floods, he added. Stressing the need for preservation of wetlands, the Minister expressed concern the serious threat to wetlands because of onslaught of mindless construction and encroachments and said the Wildlife Protection Department’s drive, therefore, has not come a day too early. He said this task, however, can not be accomplished by the Government alone and it requires the wholehearted support of the people and voluntary organisations. Exhorting upon the officials of the Department has to play a pivotal role in bringing about awareness and seeking people’s involvement for securing preservation of our water bodies besides the Minister hoped that the observance of international wetland day will help in highlighting the significance of water bodies. Peerzada said the wetlands of J&K State like Dal, Wullar and Mansbal lakes in Kashmir and Mansar, Suransar lakes of Jammu besides, Hokersar and Tsomoarari sanctuaries provide habitat to some magnificent water fowl like black necked crane, greyag goose, bar headed goose, mallard and pouchards. He said a large number of people directly or indirectly obtain their livelihood from the wetlands and thousands of migratory birds that throng to these wetlands are a special attraction to stourists. He said these wetlands be preserved for the sake of very sustenance of the human race. Among others, who spoke on the occasion were Mr. B.L. Bhat, MLC, Mr. S.M. Seth, Conservator of Forests and former Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, Mr. Aijaz Ahmad Malik. Earlier, the Chief Wildlife Warden, Mr. S.D. Swatantra threw light on the significance of observance of this International Wetland Day. |
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PoK refugees welcome SC decision Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 3: SOS an organisation of PoK refugees has welcomed the Supreme Court decision to stay the Resettlement Bill. Addressing a press conference here today, Mr Rajiv Chuni, chairman of the organisation said Apex Court’s verdict has vindicated the stand of his organisation on the Resettlement Act. Alleging that all political parties have betrayed the PoK refugees and they have the only faith in court and media which have always stood by their cause. He while making a scathing attack on ruling National Conference, said by this Bill Government tried to appease a particular group of the population without caring for our rights. He said many questions have been posed to Government as why did it want to bring this act and why it wants the Kashmiris back who have settled in Pakistan. Mr Chuni while asserting that Pak Occupied Kashmir (PoK) is the part of India maintained that it is the only bone of contention between India and Pakistan. The Security Council resolution is also based on the same and we demand the liberation of PoK said Mr V R Gupta, general secretary SoS. He said more than half portion of undivided J&K state falls in China and Pakistan and alleged that out of 78,114 sq kilometers of J&K territory lying with Pakistan 5,180 have been gifted by her to China. He said the total land of J&K is 2, 22,236 sq kms, out of which 37,555 lies under the occupation of China. He said the total land under the occupation of China and Pakistan is 1,06565 sq Kms which is more than what is with India . Lambasting Pakistan Mr Chuni said what right that country had to gift our territory to China and why not from Karachi. This shows that Pakistan is not sincere towards the people of the J&K. He asked the Indian Government to involve the PoK refugees in diplomatic offensive against Pak so that we can apprise the people abroad about the Kashmir problem. He said it is pity that even the political parties in the state have till date failed to make the difference in Pak and PoK refugees. He maintained that our organisation will not issue any directive to people on casting their franchise in the by elections saying that neither we will oppose any political party nor support it. However, he hastened to say that the political parties which will not take up our issue in this election will be taught a lesson by our people. He also demanded state subject certificates for the PoK refugees who due to certain reasons have settled in other parts of the country. Mr Rajiv Chuni alleged that the ethnic cleansing had started in J&K since the Pakistan came into existence in 1947 and the late Sheikh Abdullah also worked on this agenda. Meanwhile, Sardar Sohan Singh, vice chairman of the SOS has appealed the all PoK refugees to come on a single platform and contribute liberally for the struggle launched by the organisation. He demanded that till the compensation claims are settled the Government should pay interim relief of Rs two lakh to each refugee family. |
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One killed, 19 injured in road accidents at Narwal Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 3: One person was killed and 19 others injured, two of them critically in two separate road accidents at Narwal. According to police, one person was killed in collision between two cars at Narwal late last night. The deceased has been identified as Alexander George Massih, son of George K Masssih of Trikuta Nagar. The deceased was diving car bearing registration number CH01E-8295 when it was hit by another car number JK02N-4575. The critically injured Alexander was immediately rushed to Government Medical College Hospital where doctors pronounced him as brought dead. A case has been registered in this connection and both the vehicles stand seized by Narwal Police. In second road accident, 19 persons were injured, two of them critically when a mini-bus in which they were travelling skidded off the road and rolled down at Sabzi Mandi near Narwal this morning. The ill-fated vehicle bearing registration number JK02H-1755 was on its way from Narwal to City when it rolled down near Sabzi Mandi resulting into 19 persons sustaining injuries. Getting the report of accident, a police party from Narwal Police Post rushed to the spot and started rescue operation. All the injured were rushed to Government Medical College Hospital. The condition of two of the injured was critical when reports last came in. The injured have been identified as Balbir Singh, son of Kamal Singh, Reyaz Ahmed, son of Abdul Rehman, Seema, wife of Sat Pal, Rattan, son of Krishan Lal, Sunita, wife of Vinod Kumar, Rakesh, son of Ram Lal, Satpal, son of Charan Singh, Lacho Devi, wife of Moti Ram all the residents of Narwal, Vicky, son of Ganga Ram, Sheela, wife of Lekh Raj, Ashwani Kumar, son of Nathu Ram, Bindu Devi, wife of Mukesh Kumar, Pappu Ram, son of Nandu Ram, Gopi Ram, Muni Devi, wife of Ganga Ram, all the residents of Kasim Nagar, Javaid Iqbal, son of Khadim Hussain of Rajouri, Hilal Ahmed, son of Hameed Ul Wani of Company Bagh, Kewal Krishan, son of Jath Ram of Resham Ghar and Satish, son of Rajinder of Rajeev Nagar. The condition of Balbir Singh and Vicky was critical. A case has been registered at Narwal Police Post in this regard and driver of the mini-bus Dilip Kumar has been arrested. Meanwhile, one Kehar Ram, son of Jagat Ram of Channi sustained critical injuries when an auto-rickshaw in which he was travelling rolled down at Vijaypur. He has been hospitalised and his condition is stated to be out of danger. |
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Madan Lal conducts door to door campaign Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 3: Mr Madan Lal Sharma, Congress candidate for Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha seat conducted door to door campaign in the city and addressed series of meetings and interacted with locals. Mr Sharma expressed serious concern over the dilapidated conditions of roads, by-roads, lanes and drains of the city and held BJP MLAs and MP responsible for the worst conditions of the Jammu city. He said that the BJP legislators and MP have did nothing for the last five years. He alleged that MP and MLAs’ funds have been misappropriated and in some cases these funds got lapsed and not utilised in the field. He asked that people want accountabillity of these funds meant for the development of the city. Mr Madan Lal Sharma said that if elected he will take up the pollution problem of the city in the Parliament and arrange funds to cover all such nullahs which are passing through thickly populated areas of the city. Among those who accompanied Mr Sharma included Om Chopra, Yash Pal Khajuria, Hukam Chand Sharma, Raman Bhalla, Capt Jagan Nath, Ram Lobaya, Mohan Lal Sharma, Krishan Lal Abrol, Krishan Lal Gupta, Harbajan Singh, Jaswant Singh, Keshwa Nand, Banarsi Dass, Amer Chand, Mohinder Panotra and others. Mr Mula Ram, former Minister and vice-president J&K Pradesh Congress Committee geared up prominent Congress activists of Marh block to campaign for the party candidate, Mr Madan Lal Sharma. He convened a meeting of about 200 party workers of block Marh and discussed with them various problems of the people. A detailed programme for running smooth campaign was chalked out in the meeting. Mr Mula Ram disclosed that a big public meeting would be organised at Flayan Mandal which will be addressed by the senior leaders of the party like AICC general secretary Mrs Mohsina Kidwai, AICC secretary Mr Satyajit Gaekwad and PCC chief Mohammed Shafi Qureshi. |
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International Wetland Day - 2002 celebrated Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Feb 3: A State-level function of the International Wetland Day was organized by the Department of Wildlife Protection, J&K yesterday at the World famous Hokersar wetland, which is home to lacs of migratory birds of a number of countries. The function was presided over by Minister for Forests and Wildlife, Peerzada Ghulam Ahmad Shah. The Chief Wildlife Warden, Jammu and Kashmir, Chief Conservator of Forests, Conservators of Forests, Kashmir Region, senior officers, prominent citizens, NGOs and students in large number attended the function. Addressing the function, the Minister said that in Kashmir Valley Hygam and Hokersar are important wetland sites for the concentration of waterfowl. They provide shelter to migratory birds from China, Russia, Siberia and Central Asia and breeding sites for other summer migrants, he said. He said most of the wetlands are famous for spectacular wildlife, while some of the lakes are centres for rare and endemic avi-faunal species. The wetlands of the State besides sustaining a rich aquatic vegetation and large avi-faunal population of both resident and migratory species are famous for rare and endemic fish species, like Snow Trout, Mahseer, Rainbow Trout and Schizothorax species etc. He said biologically rich wetlands of Jammu and Kashmir are valuable community resources that provide livelihood to many and play a significant role in the socio-economic upliftment of the people. Most of the lakes are source of revenue for the State in terms of licence fee and lake products. However, he said our wetlands are threatened due to large scale biotic pressures on account of population explosion, urbanization, over exploitation of resources, land reclamation for agriculture, encroachments and weed infestation. Forest Minister stressed upon the authorities to initiate effective measures and strive hard for preservation of prestine glory and biodiversity of these wetlands. He also directed the concerned authorities to come up with a comprehensive developmental plan for sustained deweeding operations, habitat improvement, demarcation of all wetlands, effective closure of these wetland which are in the close vicinity of human habitations. The Minister was pleased to see record population of migratory birds of rare species, prominent amongst them being Grey lag Goose, Mallard, Pintail, Gadwal, Wigeon, Showller, Common Poachard, White eyed Poachard, Common Teal, Tufted duck, and Coot. The Minister undertook an extensive boat ride through the Hokersar wetland, accompained by Chief Wildlife Warden and other experts. He was briefed about the problems confronted by the department in maintaining the Hokersar wetland inspite of large scale biotic pressures and shortage of adequate resources. The Minister was apprised to earmark adequate funds for the long term preservation and conservation of wetland during the Tenth Five-Year Plan. The Minister assured the authorities that government will fund projects aimed for over-all development and conservation of these biologically rich water-bodies and has directed them to come up with comprehensive project report so that State and Central governments are approached for generous financial assistance. The Chief Wildlife Warden also spoke on the occasion. He presented a precise report regarding developmental activities in hand with the department. He expressed his gratitude to the Forest Minister, for his personal efforts, which resulted in enhancement of budgetary grants to the department of Wildlife Protection for the current fiscal year. The Chief Wildlife Warden, also expressed his gratitude to Chief Minister, Dr. Farooq Abdullah, for his personal and keen interest in providing adequate budgetary grants to the department after a lull of more than a decade or so. He said with the personal efforts of Forest Minister, the department Wildlife Protection has received a capital grant of Rs.215.50 lacs during the current fiscal year under State and Centrally sponsored schemes. The Chief Wildlife Warden requested the Forest Minister for grant of additionalties to the tune of Rs.25 lacs for the current year for Kashmir Region to complete various ongoing works in hand. An eco-march of students was also organized by the department from Lawaypora to Hokersar wetland on the same day. |
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CPI welcomes statement of Hurriyat Conference Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Feb 3: Communist party of India, Kashmir Council, has described the statement of Hurriyat Conference on elections as a healthy step which would go a long way in marking an end to the 12 years old blood-shed and pave the way towards peace and progress and the state would be saved from further devastation. As per a release this was resolved in a meeting of the CPI held here which was presided over by Mr Abdul Rehman Tukroo, MLC, state secretary of the Party. The CPI meeting held that the blood-bath and excesses during the past 12 years have given nothing to the people of the Valley except for blood bath and excesses on innocent people and lot of miseries to thousands of innocent people. Mr Tukroo said like the APHC other militant organisations should also come forward and denounce terrorism and join national main stream. They should also take a cue from the Pakistan which has denounced terrorism and taken recourse in the path of democracy after seeing devastation and destruction in Afghanistan and accordingly change their course of thinking. The CPI held that common people have become the victims in the fight between the terrorists and the security forces. The Communist Party was of the view that the present Government should come to the fore and redress the genuine grievances of the general public and also create an atmosphere of building confidence amongst the common people. The CPI held that the ruling National Conference has miserably failed in mitigating the genuine problems of the common people so far. Mr Tukroo said the present NC Government has miserably failed to mitigate the sufferings of the common masses and give a clean administration to the people. He said this year the paddy crop of the farmers has totally failed but the State Government has not so far come up with any package to assuage the hurt feelings and losses suffered by the common people. He added that shortage in supply of electricity and unscheduled power cuts have added to the woes of the people. |
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NC brings back economy on rails: Slathia Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 3: Minister for Power Surjit Singh Slathia has said that National Conference Government has managed to bring back on rails, the shattered economy of the State. Addressing series of meetings at Gurha Slathia, Budwal, Thalori and Ammoal today, the minister said people are the best judge and can better observe the development achieved by the National Conference Government. After taking reign of the State, the NC managed to restore the shattered economy of the state. He said equal opportunities of developmental activities were provided to all the three regions of the state and various new rules enacted for betterment of the poor and down trodden members of the society. He claimed that National Conference party is the movement of masses and it has sacrificed a number of leaders and dedicated workers to safeguard human values and social economic and political structures of the state. Mr Slathia appealed the people to come forward and participate in large number and support NC candidate in order to strengthen hands of Dr Farooq Abdullah as the Party is committed to the betterment and upliftment of poor and down-drodden. Meanwhile, during public rally at Ramgarh, several BSP activists joined National Conference. They are Satpal Singh, Harbans Lal, Kartar Chand and Sher Singh. Several other NC leaders including Hans Raj, Surinder Mahajan and Sukhdev Singh Slathia also spoke on the occasion. |
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‘BJP Govt hypothecates national interests to imperialist powers’ Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 3: Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party chief and candidate for Jammu-Poonch parliamentary constituency Prof Bhim Singh accompained by party MLA Mr Harshdev Singh, Mr Kamal Gouria and Anita Thakur visited Rajouri and Poonch districts as a part of election campaign. Addressing election meetings at Bhamla, Triath, Mogla, Kalakot, Budhal, Kot Ranka and Rajouri, Prof Singh criticised BJP led NDA Government at the Centre and National Conference in Jammu and Kashmir for creating war hysteria on the borders as a supplement to Pakistan military ativism in the region which has only caused uncertainity in the minds of border people besides rendering them homeless for the last two months. He said that due to wrong and short term political decisions taken by Centre, Kashmir trouble has been hightened to a great extent. He further said that BJP led Government has hypothicated national interests to US, Britian and other imperialist powers in the world. He further said that Kalakote Thermal Project, Saphire Mines in Kishtwar, Basohli, Pashmina Shwals and wood based cottage industry in Rajouri and Poonch are all casualities of Congress-National Conference Governments. Mr Harsh Dev Singh asked the State Government to make thermal project at Kalakote functional and provide security measures to the workers besides Rs 200 per day per worker. He said that if this project is properly run it will generate power to feed two districts of Poonch and Rajouri at a cheaper rate. He demanded that PHE casual labourers should be paid Rs 100 per day besides regularising those who have completed seven years of service in all organisations. He further asked the Government to release COLA instalments in favour of employees of all Government undertakings which has not been paid for the last two years. |
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Madan Lal asks people to expose NC-BJP nexus Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 3: A meeting of District Youth Congress Jammu was held under the chairmanship of its president Mr Sanjeev Gupta here today and it was attended by a large number of workers. As per a release, Mr Madan Lal Sharma, contesting candidate for Jammu-Poonch bye-parliamentary election was the chief guest on the occasion. Mr Sanjeev Gupta, addressing the meeting, highlighted the burning problems of the masses and criticised the State Government for its failure in mitigating the miseries of the masses. He said that it was all due to the wrong policies of ruling National Conference Government that the woes of masses are multiplying every day. He appealed the voters especially the youths to cast their votes in favour of Mr Madan Lal Sharma who is capable of mitigating the miseries of the masses. Mr Madan Lal Sharma, while speaking on the occaison assured the people that he if elected will effectively highlight their problems in the Lok Sabha and seek their early redressal. He exhorted the people to expose NC-BJP nexus as BJP too was equally responsible for the woes of the masses. He appealed the voters in general and youths in particular to cast their votes in his favour to get rid of corrupt candidates of NC and BJP who have failed on all fronts. Messrs Yogesh Sawhney, Jagan Nath, Prem Sagar Gupta, Joginder, Rakesh Bhagat, D D Mehra, Suman Wazir, Pardeep Kumar, Deepak Kumar, Ajay Mehra and Vikram Malhotra also spoke on the occasion. |
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