|
|
| Sapphire mining at Paddar soon Kamal for commercial exploitation of mineral resources Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: Jammu and Kashmir Minerals Limited (JKML) is all set to register production of 35000 metric tonnes of coal during current fiscal year, an all time high....more BJP Govt
too weak Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: Criticising the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) Government for its failure to protect security of the country, general secretary.....more BJP
leaders misleading Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: Making a scathing attack on Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Works Minister and senior National Conference (NC)........more People
best judges Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: People are the best judges and can better monitor the development achieved by National Conference Government...more Vigilance
presents Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: State Vigilance today presented challan against the Sub Inspector D P Malhotra, the then Incharge Police Post Chatha Jammu...more |
 |
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: The Minister for Health and Medical Education, Mian Altaf Ahmad today inaugurated a mega health mela at Surinsar, district Udhampur........more "Oyzterbay Spring 2002", collection adorns colours of zest—diamond, pink & white gold, pink tourmaline and grey pearl now dominate the interpretation of heart motifs and this collection is now available at over 23 stores across 16 cities.......more Regular
flights for Kargil demanded Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: Agreeing to the proposal of his party president and Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah, the National Conference Member Parliament from Ladakh, Mr Ghulam Hassan Khan says that converting Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu .........more NC reviews
campaign Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: National Conference workers of Jammu West Assembly segment in a meeting held at Sher-e-Kashmir Bhawan reviewed the progress achieved in respect of election campaign for the Lok Sabha by-elections to Jammu- Poonch Parliamentary.........more |
Sapphire mining at Paddar soon Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: Jammu and Kashmir Minerals Limited (JKML) is all set to register production of 35000 metric tonnes of coal during current fiscal year, an all time high target during last one decade. The corporation is poised to increase the coal production to the level of 50000 metric tonnes from next financial year. Meanwhile comprehensive marketing strategy is being devised to tap market of coal outside the State also. This was revealed at a high level meeting held here today to review performance of the JKML. The Industries and Commerce Minister, Dr. Sheikh Mushtafa Kamal, who is also the chairman of the corporation, presided. The Financial Commissioner, Industries and Commerce, Mr. I. S. Malhi, Secretary Industries and Commerce, Mr. Khurshid Ahmed and Managing Director, JKML, Mr. A. K. Khullar were present It was informed that the coal production which was just 5291 metric tonnes in 1997-98 has rose upto 27500 metric tonnes in 1999-2000 and touched a mark 33090 metric tonnes during last fiscal. The increase in production has been due to opening of new coal mines at Bariyal and Kotla during 1999 and 2000. The sale of coal has also increased about 9 folds from Rs. 0.78 lakhs in 1997-98 to Rs. 6.51 crore in 2000-2001. The Managing Director, Mr. Khullar while briefing about the achievements in Gypsum exploration from Assar mine said that corporation is all set to achieve all time high gypsum production of 30000 metric tonnes during the current fiscal. The sale of gypsum has also yielded all time high revenue of Rs. 1.20 crore. He said with the exploitation of gypsum deposits of Parlanka area, the corporation would raise the production level of gypsum to 2 to 3 lakh metric tonnes per year during 10th five year plan for which capital investment of Rs. 3.16 crore is envisaged. The meeting was informed that the corporation have started mechanization of sapphire mine at Paddar and a portable drilling machine have already been procured which has successfully drilled holes at the mine site. A sapphire mining plan has also been formulated to exploit this world famous gemstone on viable lines. Joint expedition team of JKML and department of Geology and Mining after a gap of 10 years have visited the mining area in Paddar situated at an altitude of 4742 metres above sea level in 1998 for undertaking survey of the area. The expedition team have also collected a sample sapphire corundum which is presently lying in the State treasury at Srinagar. The meeting also decided to diversify the activities of precast concrete factories at Bari Brahamana in Jammu and Wuyun in Srinagar which have been revived by the corporation after remaining non-functional for about 5 years. The corporation would acquire expertise and consultancy from building centre and HUDCO to prepare hollow brick and wall blocks, which is a cost effective building technology gaining much popularity in recent times. The Managing Director informed that the first time the Corporation as a welfare measure has started releasing 25 per cent on account payment of gratuity with upto date salary to its retiring employees on the date of attaining the age of supernnutation. This step has provided much needed relief to the out going employees of the corporation The Minister while appreciating management of the corporation for its sustained best performance in Sales turn over as well as productivity in coal, gypsum and cement asked for exploitation of mineral wealth on commercial lines in a big way. He also stressed for devising a comprehensive marketing strategy to tap outside state markets for sale of mineral products. He said domestic uses of gypsum needed to be highlighted so that market acceptability and utility of this natural wealth is exploited optimally. The meeting was also attended by the OSD to Industries and Commerce, Mr. R. A. Qadri, Joint Director Planning, Industries Department, Mr. M. Khajuria, Chief Administrative Officer-cum-Secretary, JKML, Mr. A. H. Hussain and Financial Advisor, Mr. R.K. Kharoo. |
 |
BJP Govt too weak to protect dignity of nation: Mohsina Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: Criticising the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) Government for its failure to protect security of the country, general secretary of the All India Congress Committee (AICC), Mrs Mohsina Kidwai today alleged that menace of terrorism has been engulfing the nation all due to the weak policies of Centre Government. Addressing a press conference, Mrs Kidwai regretted, "terrorism has virtually engulfed the entire nation but our government is not seriously dealing with same", she lamented and recounted how Congress governments had snubbed terrorism in different parts of the country. "Union Government led by Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee is weak enough to deal with cross border terrorism", Mrs Kidwai said, adding, "as long as BJP is at the helm of the affairs integration and unity of the country is in danger". "BJP Government is dancing to the tunes of fascists RSS which believes in two nation theory propagated by founder of the Pakistan Mohammed Ali Jennah", she said, and asked how BJP can deal terrorism when its own workers were followers of Nathu Ram Godse who was first terrorist in the country. Coming down heavily on National Conference for its failure to mitigate miseries of the masses, Mrs Kidwai charged the State Government with adopting callous attitude towards problems of the people. "Instead of taking effective step to mitigate woes of the masses, Farooq Government was trying to exploit emotions of the people", she cautioned but asserted that Congress will not allow NC to accomplish its nefarious designs. Accusing State Government of nominating dummy candidate for this prestigious seat to felicitate victory of BJP candidate, Mrs Kidwai expressed surprise over decision of the NC to field its candidate against BJP which is its ally of National Conference. "NC has fielded its candidate only to divide Muslim vote to felicitate victory of BJP candidate", she said and exhorted the people to expose unholy nexus of BJP and NC. PCC chief Mr Mohammed Shafi Qureshi, who was also present in the press conference lambasted State Government for withdrawing security of the Congress workers. He informed that local authorities at the behest of State Government have with drawn security of even AICC general secretary Mrs Mohsina Kidwai. Later addressing a rally at Gandhi Nagar Dusshera Ground organised by Mr Raman Bhalla, Mrs Kidwai said that both BJP and NC have ruined the state and there was no set policy and programme to solve this vexed Kashmir problem. Militancy, she said, has increased rapidly and engulfed various otherwise peaceful districts of Jammu. She exhorted the people to teach a lesson to those who were responsible for their miseries. Mrs Kidwai further said that it was due to the wrong policies of both State and Central Governments that subjects of this state have been facing hardships. She also criticised wavering policies of BJP in the Centre and National Conference in the State. She expressed surprise that the Chief Minister has son Omar Abdullah, who is a Minister in NDA Government, as his heir-apparent to the Chief Ministership in the state which is abuse to the democratic set up. Speaking on the occasion, Mr Mohammed Shafi Qureshi, PCC chief said that State Government has brought out controversial Resettlement Act from the cold-storage to befool the masses. He was of the view that bringing out of Resettlement Act was gameplan of both BJP and NC to exploit religious sentiments of the people. Mr Mangat Ram Sharma, senior vice-president of the PCC criticised the National Conference Government for its failure on all fronts. He assured Mrs Kidwai that Congress will work unitedly for the success of the party candidate, Mr Madan Lal Sharma. Mr Raman Bhalla, who organised this meeting, in his address condemned the State Government for not solving problems of the people. He said that people were fed with both NC and BJP and were waiting for an opportunity to teach a lesson to those who were responsible for their miseries. He made a frevent appeal to the voters to for ensuring victory of Congress candidate Mr Madan Lal Sharma. Braving heavy down pours and severe cold, a good number of people attended the meeting. People from all over the Gandhi Nagar constituency attended the meeting and patiently listened to the Congress leaders. As the leaders reached the venue, people resorted to beating dhools and accorded rousing reception to senior leaders. Mr Hari Singh, Dharampal Sharma, Puran Singh, Yash Pal Khajuria, Balwan Singh, Parkash Sharma, Anil Chopra, Darshan Raina, Ashwani Sharma, Pankaj Dogra, Maheshwar Singh, Mrs Lakshi Dutta, Ram Dass Dogra, Rattan Chand, Talinter Singh, Ashanand, Rampal, Rattan Lal and others attended the meetings. Another meeting of women Congress workers was held at Shastri Nagar. This meeting was organised by Mrs Indu Pawar, secretary of the PCC. While speaking in this meeting, Mrs Kidwai exhorted the women folk to come forward and actively participate in the political activities. "You should not confine yourself in house. Come forward and share responsibility", she exhorted and appealed to the women to cast their votes in favour of Congress candidate to strengthen hands of Mrs Sonia Gandhi. |
|
BJP leaders misleading people: Sagar Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: Making a scathing attack on Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Works Minister and senior National Conference (NC) leader, Mr Ali Mohammed Sagar has ridiculed the vicious campaign launched by its leaders and alleged that they were misleading the people of the region about the so called discrimination with the region. Addressing election rallies at Sukhjit Singh Nagar and Om Nagar in in Raipur Domana Assembly Constituency today, the Minister alleged that the opposition which is bereft of developmental programme has now resorted to character assassination of the NC leaders by raising the bogey of regional discrimination. He said the contributions made by the present Government towards the infrastructural development of Jammu region is before the people and the Government does not need any body’s certificate for the same. He said the contribution made by the NC for strengthening Jammu and Kashmir’s bonds with the rest of India by rejecting the two nation theory has made it a popular organisation among the people of all the three regions of the state. Recalling the role of his Party he said it is fighting battle of unique kind in the state and though the militants are after their blood with bullets the brave Party cadres are in the frontline of the battle field to safeguard the integrity of the country. Mr Sagar while making a dig at BJP candidate said has Dr Nirmal Singh and his other party workers ever dared to challenge the militants in their dens for the dignity of the country. He said the Government of India had to spend crores of rupees for giving protection to former BJP chief, Dr Murli Manohar Joshi for unfurling a National Flag at Srinagar Lal Chowk while the die hard NC workers unfurl the National Flag every day in every locality without any security. They even lay down their lives unsung and unheard, he added. He said hundreds of NC workers have attained martyrdom in fighting the terrorism and their family members have to wait for years together for getting the compensation. Ridiculing at the charges of so called discrimination with Jammu region , Mr Sagar said the Ravi Tawi canal was devised and commissioned by Late Sheikh Mohammed Abdullah for the kandi belt of Jammu region. He said there is no discrimination in any field as the Jammu is being treated at par with Kashmir Valley in each and every field. He said it is for any body to see whether any discrimination is being made by the Government in distribution of funds. Even the expansion of industry is more in Jammu region and the transport industry of the region is surpassing the Kashmir Valley he added. Mr Sagar claimed more share has been given to Jammu region under the Central Rozgar Fund and NABARD and in last four years 27 tube wells and 50 lakh gallon capacity Shitlee Filtration Plant was commissioned adding 1.5 crore gallons of water to the Jammu district. Besides, 300 water supply schemes under ARWS, AUWSP, state sector and district sector have been completed for providing safe drinking water to the common people. He said in power sector the Government has invested thousands of crores in Bhaghliar also and the work has been initiated on Sawlakote Power Project. He said for expansion of education the Chief Minister recently announced opening of three degree colleges one each at R S Pura, Samba and Doda respectively. Addressing the election meetings N C MLA from Raipur, Domana Mr Sat Paul Lakhotra asked the people to strengthen the hands of Dr Farooq Abdullah for making the Naya Kashmir dream a reality. He said NC is the only political Party which does not believe in caste, regional and religious politics but is committed to the welfare of the people of state. The gatherings were also addressed by party nominee for Jammu, Poonch Lok Sabha seat Ch. Talib Hussain. |
|
People best judges to monitor NC’s functioning:Slathia Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: People are the best judges and can better monitor the development achieved by National Conference Government in the State during the last five years. This was stated by Minister for Power SS Slathia while addressing series of public meetings at Chak Jawahar, Pardi, Chowni Gokley Chak, Abtal Abtal Camp, Bakhan Chack, Khokrey Chak Ramloo Rasoliana and Ramloo Braahamana. Slathia said that Congress party which ruled the State for a long party did nothing to solve the basic problems of food and shelter of the people. These leaders in the State are fighting themselves and have no definite policies and programmes especially for the State, he said, adding that they are misleading the people. The Power Minister said that National Conference is the movement of the masses and has sacrificed number of leaders and workers to safeguard human values and social, economic and political structures of the State. He appealed to the people to come forward and participate in great number and support the NC candidates which will strengthen the hands of the present Government, the Government, which he said was committed for the betterment and upliftment of the poor and down-trodden sections of the society. Messrs Hans Raj, Surinder Mahajan, Sukhdev Singh Slathia and other prominent workers spoke on the occasion. |
|
Vigilance presents challan against Sub Inspector Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: State Vigilance today presented challan against the Sub Inspector D P Malhotra, the then Incharge Police Post Chatha Jammu for accepting a bribe of Rs 1,000. The challan was presented by the Vigilance organisation on the basis of FIR No 1/2001 after receiving a written complaint from Mr Madan Lal, son of Mr Ramu and others. In their application the complainants said that they owned 16 kanals of land at village Chatha which has been sold by their father without their consent and the sale deed in this regard was executed by them in in the Court of law and the State High Court issued an order thereby restraining the vendor and vendee from any interference. This promoted the son of the vendee to lodge a false complaint with the accused official who was then posted as Incharge PP Chatha for tress passing the said land. The accused official according to the Vigilance with the malicious designs registered a false case against the complainant and the others. He raided their house and arrested them. Despite being informed about the court injection the accused did not release them. After great pursuation they were released by the IC PP who also accepted Rs 1000 as a bribe from them. The case after being investigated under Section 5 (2) prevention of Corruption Act, 2006 has been proved against the accused official and a challan presented today before the court of Special Judge,Anti Corruption Jammu. |
|
|
Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: The Minister for Health and Medical Education, Mian Altaf Ahmad today inaugurated a mega health mela at Surinsar, district Udhampur. The camp second of its kind, after the one at Kalakote, has been organised to provide better health and medicare facilities to the people living in the remote and far-flung areas of the State. Interacting with the people, the Minister said that it has been the endeavour of the Government to provide better health and diagnostic facilities to the people, especially those living in the remote and far-flung areas of the State. He said that the Government will be organising more such camps in the future so that more and more people get benefit from such camps. The health sector has been accorded a top most priority by the Government, he added. The camp organised by the Department of Social Preventive Medicine (SPM), Government Medical College will be providing free Surgical, Gynecological, Opthalmological, Dental, ENT and other associated medical facilities to the patients. A special cancer-detecting cell has also been set up in the camp. About 300 patients have been provided free medical check up and medicines. The Minister later inspected the primary health centres of the block. The Principal Government Medical College, Dr. H.L. Goswami also accompanied the Minister. |
|
|
"Oyzterbay Spring 2002", collection adorns colours of zest—diamond, pink & white gold, pink tourmaline and grey pearl now dominate the interpretation of heart motifs and this collection is now available at over 23 stores across 16 cities. With an eye on the St Valentine’s Day, Oyzterbay, the trend setting company that has created a niche market for jewellery for young people, has unveiled its zestful Spring 2002 collection. The youthful range, apart from reflecting the romantic sentiments of the season, is also in harmony with the latest trends in the international fashion. Especially for those wanting to surprise their Valentine, the Oyzterbay webstore www.oyzterbay.com provides option of fulfilling orders to over 850 locations across the country, within 48 hours. Mr Vasant Nangia, Chairman of the Group said, " we believe that time is appropriate to introduce designs and colours of every season that match the international trends. In one plane, jewellery and spring arouse the same feelings and emotions in everyone." The collection comprises over 70 designs in diamond; 24, 22 and 18 Kt gold gemset and sterling silver. Affordably priced between Rs 500 to Rs 10,000, Oyzterbay’s new range is aimed as much as spirited young women as it is at young men looking to express their love with something precious. He expressed the heart shaped earrings with pearl drops plays upon the mysterious and romantic role of the moon in matters of heart. The yellow and white gold ‘ two heart’ pendant with two stones symbolizes togetherness in love. Special merchandising will highlight the spring collection from the regular range at the showroom. |
|
Regular flights for Kargil
demanded Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: Agreeing to the proposal of his party president and Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah, the National Conference Member Parliament from Ladakh, Mr Ghulam Hassan Khan says that converting Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu and Kashmir into International Border (IB) is the only solution to the vexed problem the State has been facing or years together. Conversion of LoC into IB is the most appropriate ad ideal proposal since it suits the people of the State, especially those living in the border areas, Mr Khan said while taking to EXCELSIOR. "It is the people of the State who have been facing the brunt of cross-border firing. Wars of 1965, 1971 and Kargil intrusion have been witnessed only by the people who have suffered mostly. There will be an end to all such misadventures once a solution is found and in the present contest what Chief Minister maintains on the conversion of LoC into IB is the appropriate arrangement", the National Conference MP from Ladakh said, adding that those who disagree to the proposal seem to ignore the fact that since Independence, the people of the State have only suffered in absence of a concrete policy to end the issue once for all. Advocating his party’s agenda on the issue of autonomy, Mr Khan said that it was unfortunate that the Centre rejected the autonomy draft is toto. The issue could have been discussed to find out a via-media. Outrightly rejecting the same was no solution, Mr Khan said. He regretted that Centre was desperate in talking to the Hurriyat Conference leaders who do not even recognize the Constitution. Despite that, interlocutors like Mr K C Pant and former Divisional Commissioner Kashmir Wajahat Habibullah are being directed to talk to Hurriyat leadership. "But when National Conference forwarded the autonomy draft, the same was rejected without even making a single effort to go through it", he asserted. The Ladakh MP, however, appreciated the recent statement of Home Minister Mr L K Advani wherein he said that Centre was thinking of giving more powers to the State. While maintaining that grant of autonomy was necessary to the State of Jammu and Kashmir in view of its distinct history and circumstances whereunder it became the part of the Indian Union, the NC MP said that the demand was not against any region. Even the problems of all the three regions could be addressed to and everybody either from Kashmir, Jammu or Ladakh could be benefited. To a question, Mr Khan had all praise for the system under which Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) came into existence. Whosoever is at the helm of affairs, the system is excellent as there is an involvement of the people at the grass-root level and local problems and aspirations are addressed to properly and effectively. Mr Khan who hails from the Kargil district of Ladakh, said that despite area predominantly inhabited by local Muslims, there had been not a single instance of militant activities since the eruption of militancy in the State. Instead, people have been helping the security forces in maintaining law and order, he said. As the Member Parliament of the vast area of his constituency, Mr Khan, the former State Police Officer, who after his retirement contested Lok Sabha elections of 1999 on NC ticket, said that Ladakh needs more attention and special funds in terms of the development. "My constituency remains cut off from the rest of the world for over six months every year. Even the air service to Leh is erratic that further adds to the woes of the people of the region", he said. The communication and linking Ladakh by air has been my top priority and the issue has been raised many a times , the local MP said . Despite Kargil having the airport, no flights operate in this district headquarters, Mr Khan said, while recalling that prior to 1960, even Kargil airport was operational and catering to the needs of the people of the region. The NC MP opined that his constituency is full of rivers and streams on which Hydel Projects could be set up. "Even we can supply the power to the entire Northern region provided the natural resources are tapped. For this special funds and initiative from the Centre is required", he maintained. Mr Khan regretted that Ladakh division has been neglected in many spheres of development. " My effort has been to bring this region at par with two others regions of Kashmir and Jammu", he said. "Look, Ladakh has a high potential in terms of tourism and same is to be tapped. It is an ideal region for promoting winter sports like skiing and ice hockey and foreigners can show keen interest in these sports. But steps were not being taken in this direction", he maintained. Demanding opening of more educational and professional institutions in the region, the Member Parliament regretted that there is not a single full-fledged Degree College in the Region. "We don’t have a College at Kargil and Leh College is just for the namesake as no Science Subjects are taught there, while’s in other regions of the same State, there are scores of Colleges and institutions", he asserted. Drawing the attention towards the strategic importance of the region, Mr Khan said that Ladakh is bordering Pakistan and China. Keeping that aspect into consideration, the people of the region need special economic packages so that unemployed youth could especially be benefited. |
|
NC reviews campaign progress, holds series of rallies Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: National Conference workers of Jammu West Assembly segment in a meeting held at Sher-e-Kashmir Bhawan reviewed the progress achieved in respect of election campaign for the Lok Sabha by-elections to Jammu- Poonch Parliamentary constituency which is going to polls on February 21. The general secretary of the party Sheikh Nazir while speaking on the occasion, exhorted the workers to carry out door to door campaign and educate the masses about the policies and programmes of National Conference. He asked the every NC activist to work hard for ensuring victory of NC candidate Choudhary Talib Hussain. The Minister for Forests Peerzada Ghulam Ahmed Shah criticised the Central Government for maintaining soft-line on Kashmir. He said the Prime Minister went to Lahore on a peace mission while Pakistan indulged in Kargil intrusion. The India should adopt ‘ tit for tat’ policy on Kashmir because Pakistan will never learn to act in friendly way. Youth National Conference leader Chander Mohan Sharma while speaking on the occasion appealed the young workers to carry on their mission with same dedication and zeal. He assured the senior leaders and the Party president that Youth NC workers will not leave any stone unturned to ensure victory of their candidate—Ch. Talib Hussain. Former Minister and Provincial president, Mr Bodh Raj Bali and NC MLA Mohd Syed Akhoon also spoke on the occasion. Meanwhile, NC opened two election offices at Talab Tillo and Gurha Bakshi Nagar in Jammu West Assembly constituency. The offices were inaugurated by former Minister Ch Talib Hussain, who is also contesting elections. Forest Minister Peerzada Ghulam Ahmed Shah and Minister of State for Rural Development and Panchayats Ajay Sadhotra were also present on the occasion besides District Youth NC president Chander Mohan Sharma. Former Minister and senior NC leader Mr R S Chib addressed series of election rallies at Bera, Badyal Brahmana, Khepar and Biaspur Parlah in R S Pura in support of NC candidate Ch Talib Hussain. He criticised the BJP and Congress and alleged that they were indulging in politics of religion whereas, NC is totally wedded to secularism and that is the real strength of the party. Mr Chib claimed that NC Government headed by Dr Farooq Abdullah has taken bold stand of crushing militancy and for which a large number of party workers have sacrificed their lives. He also criticised the BJP MLA for Suchetgarh for alleged misuse of Constituency Development Fund. Meanwhile, Minister for Rural Development Ajay Sadhotra while addressing series of public meetings at Phalain, Karloop, Dhaterian, Bhagatpur and Makwal cautioned the people against anti-social elements who are trying to divide people on communal lines. He said people should not fall prey to false propaganda being prepared by a section of politicians to get instant political mileage. He said it is unfortunate that these vested interests have resorted to such unmindful activities which are detrimental to the unity and integrity of the country. Asserting that NC represents all the three regions of the state, the MoS said during last five years in office present Government has tirelessly worked for rebuilding infrastructure that had suffered massive damage at the hands of Pak sponsored militant outfits. He said thrust was laid on uniform development of both urban and rural areas. He appealed the people to support NC candidate for Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha seat. NC workers led by Mr Jaspal Singh organised yet another election rally at Bahu Fort here today in support of Ch Talib Hussain. Mr Hussain was accorded warm welcome as soon as he reached there. Mr Singh appealed the people to support the candidature of Ch Hussain for Jammu-Poonch elections. Meanwhile, J&K National Trade Union Front has appealed the workers to support Ch Talib Hussain who is NC candidate for Jammu-Poonch constituency. The Front has also stressed upon the Youth wing, Kissan Wing and the Public sector to mobilise the mass support for the victory of Mr Hussain. |
|
Harbans Singh highlights achievements of NC Govt Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: Labour Minister, Mr Harbans Singh has said the good governance and safety of common masses was the top priority of National Conference (NC) Government. Addressing election meeting at Raipur Satwari near here today, he said State surged ahead in the field of information technology, education, sports, culture and rural development under the leadership of Chief Minister, Dr Farooq Abdullah during lover last five years of NC rule. He said the Rehbar-e-Taleem Scheme was introduced to provide the jobs to unemployed youth besides filling up the vacant posts of teachers in the schools. Besides the development of far flung and backward areas remained top on our agenda during this period. He appealed the people to vote for his party candidate enmass in the by elections of February 21 Jammu, Poonch Lok Sabha seat as no other party else than NC can guarantee progress. He while lambasting the BJP and the Congress for their divisive policies alleged these parties were working on communal lines. Referring to the trifurcation of the state he said BJP has a history of divide and rule policies behind it. The meeting was also addressed by Party MLA Mrs Bimla Luthra. On the occasion the problems of the Cantonment area were highlighted. |
|
R S Pura Bar’s relay hunger strike enters 34th day Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: The relay hunger strike of Bar Association, R S Pura entered 34th day today. As per a release, the Bar started its relay hunger strike on January 3 in protest against the lifting of Fast Track courts from Muffasil to Jammu Headquarters. The Bar members demanded that the sitting of Additional Session Judge should he given to the Tehsil Headquarters to provide justice to the people at their door steps. In the chain of the relay hunger strike, Advocate Ranjit Singh Chib, president of the Association and Mr Ashok Beotra, former president sat on hunger strike. The sitting members urged the concerned authorities that in case the demand is not met with at an earliest, drastic steps would be taken by the Muffasil Bar R S Pura. |
|
BJP
to win with landslide margin: Kotwal Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) nominee for Jammu, Poonch Lok Sabha seat and party spokesman, Dr Nirmal Singh today asserted that liberation of Pak occupied Kashmir (PoK) is the unfinished task of his Party which has been forcibly occupied by Pakistan. Addressing series of election meetings at Akahalpur, Gho-Mansa, Lohri Chak, Pangore, Chisgah, Nai Basti, Kripal Pur, Gajansoo, Kalorp, Halka, Kanhr Chak, Kalyan Chak, Sama Chak and Gurah Singoo, Dr Nirmal Singh lambasted at Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah for suggesting that India should give up its claim on PoK by converting Line of Control (LoC) into permanent border. He alleged that Dr Abdullah was pursuing the dangerous Dixon plan of dividing the state on communal lines and the reports of Greater Autonomy and Regional autonomy are a step in this direction. He said Dr Abdullah is pursuing the American policies on Kashmir and his suggestion of converting LoC into permanent border is the gameplan of Pakistan born American citizen Farooq Kathiawari to disintegrate India. He warned the people of dangerous implications of such suggestions which are inmical to the integrity and sovereignty of India and against which the BJP will stood like a rock. He said Central leadership of BJP led by Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee demonstrated this by throwing the Greater autonomy report in the dust bin. He said under the able leadership of Mr Vajpayee India has achieved supremacy over Pakistan at international level and the nation has made rapid growth on all fronts besides exposing Pakistan as the mother of terrorism. Ch. Piara Singh, BJP MLA in his address accused Dr Abdullah Government for adopting discriminatory attitude towards the Jammu region and befooling the people on the name of autonomy and Resettlement Bill. He appealed the people to vote for Dr Singh who possesses all qualities to represent them in Parliament. BJP MLA Mr Bali Bhagat criticised the State Government for its failure on all fronts. He said the Party is responsible for the woes and miseries of the people. He called upon people to strengthen the hands of Prime Minister, Mr Atal Behari Vajpayee by casting their vote in favour of Dr Nirmal Singh. Ex MLA, Mr Ram Nath Manhas held the NC and Congress responsible for the chaos, confusion and present turmoil in the state. Meanwhile party state Chief Mr Daya Krishan Kotwal has claimed that his Party nominee will win the by election by a landslide margin. Mr Kotwal while addressing a largely attended Party workers meeting here said the people will definitely vote in favour of the BJP candidate to strengthen the hands of their popular leader Mr ATal Behari Vajpayee who has taken the onus to built an India of peoples dreams. He castigated the Congress that ruled the country for last 45 years for the prevailing mess and terrorism. He said after Mr Vajpayee took over the reigns of country its prestige touched new heights. He said India has not only won on diplomatic front but exposed the Pakistan for launching a proxy war in Jammu and Kashmir. He said BJP is committed to weed out the terrorism from the state and people will definitely strengthen the Party at this crucial juncture. The Samelan was organised to take the stock of the campaign in which workers of 13 segments participated. BJP Kashmir Campaign Committee headed by Kashmir Prant president ,Mr M L Sopori today visited various localities in Muthi, Patoli, Kotian Niter, Gurah Keran, Bantalab, Barnai and Chinore to garner support for the Party candidate Dr Nirmal Singh. Among others who accompanied Mr Sopori include Messrs Ashok Ganjoo and ASKPC general secretary, H L Chata. They appealed the people to strengthen the Party by casting their vote in favour of Dr Nirmal Singh. |
|
Record number of militants
killed in January Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Feb 7: Police and security forces have made spectacular achievements in the killing of Pak-sponsored hardcore militants in the month of January this year. As many as 173 militants have been eliminated during last month, a toll which is more than double as compared to the corresponding months of 2000 and 2001 put together. A police spokesman today said that 78 militants each were killed in 2000 and 2001. While six militants have surrendered in the first month of Jan this year, there was no such surrender in Jan last year. The number of militants arrested by police/security forces in Jan this year is also double the number of ultras killed in Jan last year. 44 militants have been arrested in Jan this year as against 34 and 21 of the corresponding period in 2000 and 2001 respectively. As compared to 387 incidents of violence as resorted to by militants in Jan 2001, militants have committed 308 incidents of violence in Jan this year. The number of violent incidents in Jan 2000 was 227. These incidents include explosions, hurling of grenades, rocket attacks, militant firings, arson, abductions etc. 17 incidents of hurling of grenades and 20 incidents of IED explosions have been registered in Jan this year as against 61 and 55 respectively during Jan 2001 and 13 incidents of hurling of grenades and 20 explosions in Jan 2000. Incidents of violence directed against police/security forces have gone up from 32 ( January 2001) to 84 during Jan this year. 93 of such incidents were registered in Jan 2000. The spokesman said that militants killed 80 civilians in Jan 2001 and 72 in Jan 2000. As against this 70 civilians have lost their lives at the hands of militants in Jan this year. Out of these 70 civilians, 9 have died as a result of cross firing between militants and security forces in crowded/inhabited places. Out of remaining 61 persons killed by militants in Jan this year, 44 are male, 9 female and 8 children. All the 8 children have lost their lives in firing by militants, 6 persons have died in explosions triggered by militants and one in grenade attack. In their continued anti-militancy fight, 35 police/security forces personnel have sacrificed their lives and 98 have sustained injuries in Jan this year. As against this, 26 police/security forces personnel in Jan 2000 and 38 in Jan 2001 laid down their lives in anti-militancy operations and the number of personnel injured was 53 and 93 respectively. The spokesman said that during Jan last year militants set ablaze 1829 Government/private assets which included burning of 6 school buildings, 7 houses of majority community, 5 houses of minority community, 7 Govt. buildings including a hospital, 13 business establishments, 3 cow sheds and 1788 timber scants. As compared to this colossal loss there has been a marginal damage to the government/public property by arson in Jan this year. Militants have burnt 71 assets during the last month. These include 50 houses of majority community, 8 houses of minority community, one school, one bridge, 2 other Government buildings, 2 business establishments and 7 cow sheds. Similarly the number of assets set on fire by militants in Jan 2000 was 100. Police/security forces have made a sizeable recovery of arms/ammunition during raids and anti-militancy operations. In Jan this year, 146 rifles of AK series with 436 magazines have been recovered as compared to 75 AK rifles with 216 magazines in January 2000 and 55 AK rifles with 152 magazines in Jan. last year. Six anti-tank mines were recovered/detected in January 2000, one in Jan last year and 14 in Jan this year. Likewise, 119 rifle grenades have been recovered during the last month as against 43 in Jan last year. Besides, 40 wireless sets, one tape recorder, one telephone set and 24 battery chargers have been recovered last month. 16 wireless sets in Jan 2000 and 27 in Jan 2001 were recovered from militants but there was no recovery in respect of telephone sets, tape recorders/radio sets and battery chargers. As regards recovery of explosive material, the spokesman said that 56 kgs of explosive material and 54 kgs of deadly RDX have been recovered in Jan this year whereas 84 kgs of explosive material and 57 kgs of RDX were recovered in Jan 2001 and 593 kgs of explosive material and 87 kgs of RDX in Jan 2000. |
|
Farooq uttering in frustration: Mehbooba Excelsior Correspondent RAJOURI, Feb 7: Peoples Democratic Party vice-president, Mehbooba Mufti while reacting to the Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah’s statement has said that National Conference is in frustration over the growing popularity of PDP. Ms Mehbooba Mufti said this while addressing a series of meetings at Bharote, Danidhar, Jawahar Nagar and Kotedhara areas of Rajouri. The PDP vice-president said before 1999 people did not have any other option for their political assertion but after the former Union Home Minister took initiative there is great inclination of masses towards the regional outfit. She said this growing popularity of PDP and its grass root level contacts are not going well with the NC that is why the ruling party has indulged in personal attacks. She said, Chief Minister, Dr Farooq Abdullah does not have any right to question the nationalistic credentials of PDP and its leaders. She alleged, that it was Dr Farooq Abdullah himself who supported the concept of plebiscite in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK) while Sheikh Mohammed Abdullah was assuming power in the State after Delhi Agreement in 1975. Mehbooba alleged that the Chief Minister, Dr Farooq Abdullah is not a man of connection and he gives different statements to suit his own interests. She said, militancy in Jammu and Kashmir is a result of wrong policies of NC which betrayed the interests of people. PDP MLA, Abdul Reham Veeri, Master Tassaduq Hussain, Mohammed Sultan Panditpuri, MLA, Mohammed Shafi Dar, Falail Singh and others addressed the meetings which were organised by Mr Vinod Mahajan, Anam Hafiz Choudhary and Khaliq Choudhary. PDP leaders also conducted tour in different areas of Jammu region including Mishriwalla and Jaswa and addressed public meetings. |
|
R-47 calls for boycott of Lok Sabha by-poll Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Feb 7: R-47 has appealed to the PoK refugees of 1947 to boycott Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha by-election on February 21. Addressing a meeting of PoK refugees, Mr Balraj Bakshi, president of R-47 said that no party or candidate has even acknowledged the problems being faced by the refugees of 1947. "And since no party or candidate has as much as expressed sympathy with the PoK refugees’ cause in their manifestoes, no one deserves our votes. As such, we shall abstain from polling", he said. The R-47 president said that nearly 70 per cent of votes in Jammu-Poonch Parliamentary constituency are PoK refugees but no party has fielded a refugee candidate in the elections. "We now refuse to be take for granted anymore, we refused to subject ourselves to political exploitation and seek to establish our political identity by boycotting the polls", he added. Mr Balraj Bakshi has spell out a 7-point code of conduct to be observed by the PoK refugees of 1947 during by-election. Prominent others who addressed the meeting were Naveen Bali, Raj Kumar Chandan, Aman Deep Singh Azad, Manjeet Singh, Manmohan Singh, Susheel Bali, Hakumat Singh, Kamal Bakshi, Suresh Gupta, Neetu Sharma, Lokesh Sharma and Atulya Pushp. |
|
|
|
|
| home | state | national | business| editorial | advertisement | sports | |
