|
|
| RSS chief justifies support to Ram Temple at Ayodhya Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsangchalak, K C Sudershan while justifying the support to construction of Ram Temple at Ayodhya today maintained that Lord Rama is a symbol of Hidutva.....more Bhim’s
resolution to Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: Resolution, regarding strength of council of Ministers, moved in the Legislative Council by the Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers’ Party (JKNPP) member Prof Bhim Singh.........more DGP
inaugurates Police Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Dec 10: Director General of Police, Gopal Sharma inaugurated a Police Station building at Channi Himmat here today........more Accused
discharged at stage of framing charges Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: First Additional Sessions Judge Jammu, Bansi Lal Bhat in an alleged land scam pertaining to 10 kanals of land situated at Top Sherkhanian Jammu, has passed....more Shivani
to present realistic plays By Lalit Gupta JAMMU, Dec 10: Artists continue to work out of sheer love for their chosen field of expression. Especially when the practice of arts......more |
 |
US
delegation hails effort for peace Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: Expressing optimism that the ceasefire and other confidence building measures initiated by India and Pakistan would lead to lasting peace in the region, Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today said that things are moving in the right direction.........more Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: Lakhs of rupees are outstanding against politicians and senior bureaucrats who had stayed in JK Guest House at Chankayapuri and 5 Prithvi Raj Road, Delhi. The defaulters included 49 politicians and officials who stayed at these Government guest houses at Union Capital..........more 8 year
term, fine to Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: Principal Sessions Judge Jammu, Subash Chander Gupta has awarded eight years rigorous imprisonment and a fine of rupees 15,000 to a Pakistani trained militant Mohd Shaffi.........more Kalpana
Chawla Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: The Minister for R&B, Madan Lal Sharma has said that service to the suffering community is service to the God and everyone should..........more |
RSS chief justifies support to Ram Temple at Ayodhya Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Sarsangchalak, K C Sudershan while justifying the support to construction of Ram Temple at Ayodhya today maintained that Lord Rama is a symbol of Hidutva. He was replying to a question of Tanvir Ahmed, provincial general secretary, Jammu State Morcha at a function here this evening. The function was organized by Ekta Manch Jammu. He said Babar was a foreign invader who after defeating the Indian rulers constructed a mosque by dismantling the Ram Temple at Ayodhya. He said the entire Hindu Samaj is emotionally attached to Ayodhya as the Lord Ram is the symbol of our culture. The Babar being a foreign invader has no relevance before the Indian people, he added. The RSS chief maintained that this mosque was not constructed for offering prayers by the Muslims but by a foreign invader to enslave this nation. And this is the only reason that Sangh supports construction of Temple he added. He said after its victory over Poland, Russia constructed an orthodox Church at the Square but when the Poland got freedom they reconstructed Square at that site. He said Ram Manohar Lohia veteran socialist had said that Rama, Krishna and Lord Shiva are the identification of this nation and all should support it. Shri Sudershan while sharing concern of Mohammed Ayub Ayan, another Muslim leader from Gool said the Jammu and Kashmir has separate politics and this is the reason that Sangh had supported the trifurcation of the State and granting of separate statehood to Jammu. This way only the discrimination with Jammu region will end, he added. Earlier Ayan said that Jammu continues to face discrimination and the Muslims of the region were always ignored while signing the historical agreements. Reiterating that Muslims are the part and parcel of India as they are aborigines of this nation, RSS chief blamed the Britishers for creating the wedge between the two communities by raising the question of majority and minority. He regretted that 99 per cent Muslims by mere change in their way of worship for last over some hundred years consider themselves as minority in India. Likewise, the Chiristians are also the sons of this land and by mere change in their religion they can not be called minority. Maintaining that there is total freedom of religion in India, he said Muslims and Christians are true nationals and should be ready to sacrifice every thing on their nation when it faces any adversity. "There is no harm they can go to Vatican and Mecca for worship, but so for as national interest is concerned we should be one", he added. Shri Sudershan said India is one from Kashmir to Kanya Kumari though we speak different languages, have different way of life but we are linked to one culture. And this culture is our identification , he added. The RSS chief said we have no conflict with the people of Pakistan as our culture is identical. The creation of Pakistan was a big conspiracy and its leaders still think that joining of hands by two nations will spell a doom for them, he said. He said despite the partition our culture still resembles and he warned that those who try to break this unity among Hindus and Muslims, Sangh will take on them strongly. Pointing towards Qadianis he said how can Pakistan claim itself to be the champion of Muslims when some Islamic sects have been declared non Muslims there. But in India all sects of Muslims are free to profess their religion as per their will, he added. Addressing the gathering Padam Shri Muzaffar Hussain said all religions reach to one goal and their philosophy is peace and brotherhood. He said India is great civilization and has a rich culture of thousands of years. He said the rivers flowing through the different parts of this country are linked to its ancient rich culture and civilization which has always stood for unity in diversity. He said had India not been one country how Kalidas the great poet could mention in his Meghdoot about the unity of this nation. India also believed in spiritualism and had not been this the great sofi saints like Nizamu-Din Awlia and Nizamu-Din Chesti would not have made this nation their abode. He asked people of Jammu to come forward and take the struggle for the separate statehood to its logical conclusion. This is the only way to fight the discrimination faced by the people of the region, he added. He claimed Article 370 and Uniform Civil Code are great barriers in the form of unity and for unity we all should outrightly support Uniform Civil Code. Speaking on the occasion, Akhil Bharatiya Seh Samparakh Parmukh RSS, Indresh Kumar said no doubt the religion and languages are different but our nation is one. He said Sangh from last over one year has started interaction with Muslims at different places of the country to build the unity bonds between the two communities. He said this can lead to religious tolerance and strengthen peace in the country. He said India is the only country where all the 73 sects of Muslims get the equal treatment while there is no such example in any Muslim country of the world. The function was also attended by Omer Naqashbahandi, Dr K L Bhatia and Dr O P Mengi. |
 |
Bhim’s
resolution to limit number of Ministers Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: Resolution, regarding strength of council of Ministers, moved in the Legislative Council by the Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers’ Party (JKNPP) member Prof Bhim Singh generated much heat in the House. As the resolution amounts to constitutional amendment, it was Chairman of the Council, who convinced Prof Singh to defer the resolution. Although Chairman deferred the resolution as, according to him, it amounts to constitutional amendment, he failed to convince Prof Singh to withdraw the resolution who was adamant for voting on this resolution. While moving the resolution Prof Singh regretted that new class of princes and crowns has been created in the democratic system. "This class is more expensive then former feudal lords", he said and stressed on the need of keeping a check on this class. Ministers of the democratic elected governments have been behaving like Pope of Rome and even not behaving properly with their colleagues, he said and cautioned against this dangerous menace. "This menace has been causing damage to the very roots of our democratic institutions", he said. Coming down heavily on State Government for making jumbo council of Ministers, he reminded that after formation of this regime coalition partners had promised to eradicate corruption and nepotism. Even at that time our party has demanded that strengthen of thecouncil of Ministers should not be extended to 25 percent of the total strengthen of legislatures, he recalled, adding, "what to say of making a jumbo Ministry even some MLAs have been appointed as chairmen of various Public Sector Units and Corporations". He was of the opinion that it was burden on the public exchequer. Taking a dig at coalition Government, he regretted that this regime do not have funds for giving COLA to the PSUs employees and salaries for daily wagers but on the other hand crores and crores of rupees have been spent on Ministers. "People will not spare us", he warned and argued that there must a freezing point on the strengthen of the council of Ministers. Giving further argument in favour of his resolution, he said that this regime has imposed blanket ban on employment but there was no ban on increasing strengthen of Ministers. P Namgyal of Congress also supported Prof Bhim Singh’s resolution but suggested an amendment that strengthen of Ministers should be 15 percent of the total strengthen of the legislators. He stressed on the need of further strengthening Anti-Defection Law. Intervening in the discussion, Minister of Finance, Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Muzaffer Hussain Beig supported spirit of the resolution but suggested Prof Singh to move this resolution at appropriate place. He said this resolution amounts to constitutional amendments. "Spirit of resolution is good but in practical there are some political compulsions", he said. When Prof Singh was adamant on voting on this resolution, Chairman intervene in the matter and said that it was not appropriate to take this issue in the House as it related to the constitutional amendments. After some discussion Chairman deferred the question with the consent of Prof Singh. NC members was also eager to voting on this issue and supported Prof Singh. Later talking to EXCELSIOR Prof Singh said that it was first time in the history that a resolution after accepted followed by discussion was deferred. |
|
DGP inaugurates Police Station Channi Himmat Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Dec 10: Director General of Police, Gopal Sharma inaugurated a Police Station building at Channi Himmat here today. The double-storey building has been constructed by Police Construction Division under modernization programme at an expenditure of Rs.24 lakh. It also has the accommodation on the first floor for residential purpose of the policemen working at the Police Station. Director General of Police also laid a foundation stone of the lower subordinate quarters adjacent to the newly constructed Police Station. The three-storey residential quarters will comprise 12 units and will be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs.36 lakh. Sharma also planted a sapling in the premises of Police Station, Channi Himmat and called upon the staff stationed there to make the whole lawn green and absorbing. Earlier, on arrival the DGP was received by senior police officers and was presented ceremonial guard of honour. Among others who were present included IGP, Jammu Zone, P. L. Gupta, IGP (Modernization), S. P Vaid, IGP Police Headquarters, Javed Makhdoomi, IG Armed Police Headquarters, Navin Aggarwal, DIG Jammu-Kathua Range, Farooq Ahmed, SSP Jammu, Kamal Saini and Dy Director Planning, Police Headquarters, Ghulam Mohammad Ganai. |
|
Accused
discharged at stage of framing charges Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: First Additional Sessions Judge Jammu, Bansi Lal Bhat in an alleged land scam pertaining to 10 kanals of land situated at Top Sherkhanian Jammu, has passed strictures against the investigating agency and discharged the accused Buti Ram of Talab Tillo, Jagbir Singh, presently Girdwar and Moti Lal Kaul of Shaktinagar Jammu at the stage of framing charges for making forged documents about the land in question. The Court directed Tehsildar Jammu to cancel the mutation having been found fake and fictitious and also ordered to send a copy of this order to IGP Crime and Railways to initiate a probe against the deliquent officials and report the action taken to this regard in due course of time. As per the case, one Devinder Singh had filed a complaint before CJM Jammu on July 24, 1997 for registration of the case. It was alleged that Buti Ram, Shamsher Singh, Hans Raj and Nek Ram Gupta hatched a conspiracy to grab the land on false documents. After receiving the complaint, the Crime Branch had registered a case and started investigation. Later a Challan was presented in the court. Today, while discharging the accused, Bhat took serious note and passed strictures against Investigating Agency (Crime Branch), observing the conspiracy is something more than abatement. "In this case, the kingpin Nek Ram has been let out, Hans Raj, Naib Tehsildar, originally accused of being conspirator has not been associated with the investigation despite it having been learnt that he was posted as Naib Tehsildar at the relevant time and he had the capacity to attest the mutation". On a close scrutiny of the material, it was found that in view of the discharge if the accused Jagbir Singh by this court in terms of earlier order and the subsequent failure of the Crime Branch to take appropriate steps in the light of the report submitted by FSL with regard to signatures of persons having attested the mutation together with its failure to file supplementary challan, there is sufficient ground for proceeding against the accused Buti Ram and Moti Lal Kaul notwithstanding the facts that the mutation order is established to be fake and forged. " The kingpin of the alleged crime being the custodian of the revenue record has not been identified and material facts and evidence have not been unearthed. The whole matter is surrounded in deep mystery. It is unfortunate that the Crime Branch slept over the matter after filing the interim charge-sheet and abdicated its duty by not taking appropriate step after the FSL report". With these observations, the Judge discharged the accused from the charges leveled against them. |
|
Shivani to present
realistic plays By Lalit Gupta JAMMU, Dec 10: Artists continue to work out of sheer love for their chosen field of expression. Especially when the practice of arts, in a State like Jammu and Kashmir, is not an economically viable activity, any new artistic venture can only be taken as a selfless act of devotion. It is in this background the three day theatre festival by Shivani Cultural Society, starting from tomorrow Dec 11, at Abhinav Theatre, Jammu, is to be appreciated. Comprising of students, doctors, engineers, govt. employees, Shivani Cultural Society, is a group of amateur artists who being devoted to theatre as a powerful means of social comment find time from respective every day routines for the activity which is nearer to their hearts. Active since more than a decade, the group is known for staging dramas that mirror the inherent psychological conflict and its appearance in various socio-cultural situations. Shivani Cultural Society has also exhibited a clear approach to their style of presentations. "Our clear intention is to perform realistic plays where the message is directly communicated to the audience", says Anoop Verma, director and one of the founders of the group. Not enthusiastic about formal experimentations, Anoop Verma feels that such approach distances the audience from the content of a play. The dramas of well known playwrights already staged by Shivani Culture Society include names like Badal Sarkar, Mahesh Elkunchwar, Shanker Shesh, Sakeshpere, Sophocles, Arthur Miller etc. Some of the successful productions of the group are ‘Ram Sham Yadu’, ‘Ant Nahin’, ‘Badi Bua ji’, Baki Itihas, Kahan Ho Faqir Chand, Oedipus, Othallo, Ek Sapne Ki Maut. The three day theatre festival will open with ‘Mahanirvan’ while ‘Arakt Kshan’ will be staged on second day. The festival will end with ‘Hadsa-Haqiqat’. The first two plays are written by well known Marathi writer Mahesh Elkunchwar. ‘Mahanirvan’ is a critique of the age old customs followed by us blindly while ‘Arakt Kshan’ revolves around a mother who has lost his son and is drawn to young boy who reminds her of own son. Her daughter misunderstand mother’s attraction and declares her as immoral. But final revelations brings out the truth of lonely lady who only was only filling the void in her life. The play Hadsa-Haqiqat’ is a reflection on the ingrained element of exploitation in society and how it devastates the lives of innocent victims who end up with broken identities. The plays in Hindustani, directed Anoop Verma, will be performed by actors like Mitali Gupta, Ajay Khajuria, Vikram Sharma, Isha and others. Keeping in mind the attraction of electronic media and luke warm response to theatre, the group has kept no entry tickets and the festival is open to public. "Our purpose is to make theatre and our group popular among public. For us every body in the audience is a chief guest", says Anoop Verma. |
|
US delegation hails effort
for peace Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: Expressing optimism that the ceasefire and other confidence building measures initiated by India and Pakistan would lead to lasting peace in the region, Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today said that things are moving in the right direction. Interacting with a delegation comprising former US ambassadors that called on him here this afternoon, the Chief Minister said that people of both the countries have a strong yearning for peace and good neighbourly relations. He said the bold initiative taken by the Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee by offering hand of friendship and its positive response by Pakistan has kindled a new hope for the people of both the countries. He said there is no alternative to peace and quoted Vajpayee that ‘ you can change your friends but not the neighbours’. He, however, said that all this cannot be achieved in one go as both the countries have their stated positions on Kashmir, adding that it has to be accomplished through a process of evolution as there can’t be any cut and die formula. Mufti Sayeed said that the plying of bus service between New Delhi and Lahore and effort to resume train and air services would connect the hearts of the people on both sides besides improving relations between India and Pakistan. Similarly, the proposal for bus service between Srinagar-Muzaffarbad and Suchetgarh - Lahore would divided families on both sides to meet each other. The Chief Minister said that the Centre has taken a great step forward by appointing Deputy Prime Minister L. K. Advani to talk to separatists to address internal dimension of the problem. APHC too has responded positively. The Chief Minister also apprised the delegation about the socio-economic development agenda of the coalition Government and the headway made on it so far. Mufti Sayeed impressed upon the delegation to help in withdrawing adverse travel advisories on Kashmir, saying that it would help in revival and promotion of tourism in the State, which is mainstay of its economy. He said Kashmir is a world renowned tourist destination and as safe as anywhere else. The Chief Minister said that the State is witnessing greater development and economic activities as mega projects like North-South express highway corridor and Udhampur-Baramulla rail link schemes have been taken in hand. He said education, health and infrastructure development are the thrust areas. The delegation comprised Dennis Kux, senior scholar, Woodrow Wilson Centre, Nicholas Plutt, President Asia Society and David Greenway, Member of Council on Foreign Relations. They complimented the Mufti Government for giving a turn around to the situation in Jammu and Kashmir and wished the Chief Minister success in his mission of restoring peace with dignity in the State. The delegation also presented a copy of the report ‘New Priorities in South Asia’ of a task force co-sponsored by Council on Foreign Relations and Asia Society. PDP President and MLA Ms. Mehbooba Mufti and Principal Secretary to Chief Minister M. I. Khandey were also present. |
|
Stay in Govt accommodation
at Delhi guest houses Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: Lakhs of rupees are outstanding against politicians and senior bureaucrats who had stayed in JK Guest House at Chankayapuri and 5 Prithvi Raj Road, Delhi. The defaulters included 49 politicians and officials who stayed at these Government guest houses at Union Capital. In a written reply to the question of Amrit Malhotra, the Minister incharge stated that maximum out-standing of rupees 3,13,508.00 was against senior IAS officer B R Singh, who had been stayed in room number 118 and 119 from 4-11-90 upto 31-3-2003. Singh was Commissioner Power Development Department when he had occupied these two rooms. An amount of Rs 1,85,400.00 was outstanding against Mohammed Shafi Bhat Congress MLA who had stayed with family in two rooms from 14-11-97 to 30-4-98. He was then National Conference MLA. Reply further stated that an amount of rupees 44,160 was outstanding against Rajinder Handoo son of late National Conference leader and former Law Minister P L Handoo while an amount of rupees 7, 242 was against R A Jan, Art Emporium. Minister’s reply further stated that a sum of rupees 18000 was outstanding against family of Suman Bhagat, Congress MLA from R S Pura who stayed at JK Guest House Chankiyapuri from 12-5-2003 to 6-6-2003 while as Rajya Sabha member and Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) leader has to pay to rupees 23675 as outstanding for staying at Chankiyapuri Guest House. He stayed there from 26-11-2003 to 5-5-2003. An amount of rupees 117000.00 was outstanding against one Arguman Goni, C/o M A Goni who stayed at Chankiyapuri Guest House from November 2001 to 6-3-2002 while an amount of rupees 9310 was outstanding against Mohammed Aslam Goni, the then Advocate General who had at Chankipuri as stated in the reply. It was also stated that an amount of rupees 7480 was outstanding against Choudhary Talib Hussain, Lok Sabha member who had stayed from 28-2-2002 to 14-7-2002 at Chankiyapuri Guest House. Rupees 45995 was outstanding against former MP Mirza Abdul Rashid who had stayed at Chankiypapuri Guest from 2-4-2000 to 31-1-2001 while an amount of Rs 10650 was outstanding against one Maya Ram. Minister in his reply further informed the house that a sum of rupees 12020 was outstanding against Dr Malik Arshad of PHC Mahore who stayed at Chankiyapuri Guest House from 1-10-2003 to 24-10-2003 while as rupees 59280 was outstanding against T K Koul, J&K Project Construction Corporation who has been staying in a room at Chankiyapuri Guest from 16-9-2001. An amount of rupees 18200 was outstanding against M J Khabri Regarding steps taken by the Government to recover these arrears, the Minister stated that the concerned have been advised to deposit the arrears and are reminded regularly. However, while responding to the reply to his another question, Amrit Malhotra stated that rules and norms were violated while making appointment of Editor in Sher-i-Kashmir University of Agriculture Science, (SKUAST) Srinagar. While reacting to the reply of Minister of Agriculture, Abdul Aziz Zarger, Congress member stated that appointment was made by throwing out all rules and regulation. He stated that some experienced and well qualified persons had applied for the post but inexperienced person was selected for the post. He warned the Government against these types of blunders. Malhotra stated that selection was made by keeping other candidates in dark. Earlier the Minister stated that SKUAST has an independent recruitment policy and the State Government has nothing to do with the recruitments being made by the University. Replying to the question, the Minister stated that candidate selected for the post of Editor SKUAST was a postgraduate in Mass Communication and Journalism. He further stated that eligible candidates for the said post were invited for interview by the Selection Committee and no other candidate possessed higher merit than the selected candidate. |
|
8 year term, fine to Pak-trained militant Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: Principal Sessions Judge Jammu, Subash Chander Gupta has awarded eight years rigorous imprisonment and a fine of rupees 15,000 to a Pakistani trained militant Mohd Shaffi, code Hamza of Mahore area of Udhampur district. In default of the payment of fined money, the accused will further undergo rigorous imprisonment for two years, it was ordered. In his 13 page judgment, Gupta said that so far other accused —Aftab Sharief, code Major Gul, Mohd Iqbal, code Haider Ali and Saidullah code Asrar are concerned, there is no material on the file to connect the accused with the commission of offence. "All the other accused except Mohd Shaffi are acquitted from the charges leveled against them", it was ordered. According to the Police story, Mohd Shaffi was arrested and from his possession arms and ammunition were recovered. It was alleged that during the search operations, the hiding militants had fired at the security personnel, thereby injuring Subedar Lab Singh. The militants had managed to cross over the border and went to Pakistan Occupied Kashmir and after obtaining training in handling arms and ammunition, had returned to this side to spread terrorism. |
|
Kalpana Chawla Memorial Trust organises relief camp Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: The Minister for R&B, Madan Lal Sharma has said that service to the suffering community is service to the God and everyone should contribute their share towards such noble cause. The Minister was speaking at a function organised by Kalpana Chawla Memorial Trust an NGO, to distribute sewing machines among destitute and physically handicapped persons at Vijaypur today. Lauding the NGOs for playing an important role in the upliftment of weaker sections and physically challenged persons, he said such contributions will enthuse spirit of self-help among them. They will be in a position to earn their livelihood instead of depending on others. Sharma said that Government has also made provision of three percent reservation for the physically challenged and 30 percent for the women in the panchayats and other grass root level democratic institutions. Later, the Minister distributed 15 sewing machines among the physically challenged persons and announced that 15 more sewing machines would be provided to the deserving from his personal funds. MLA, Vijaypur, Manjit Singh also spoke on the occasion and said that efforts are afoot to mitigate the sufferings of the people and ensuring equal developmental opportunities to all sections of the society under the coalition Government. Kalpna Chawla Memorial Trust has been instituted by some social workers hailing from Vijaypur, R.S. Pura and its adjoining localities to serve the destitute, physically challenged and other deprived sections of the society. |
|
World Human Rights Day in
Kashmir Excelsior Special Correspondent SRINAGAR, Dec 10: While as nobody in Kashmir valley shed tears over the atrocities and excesses committed by separatist militants on innocent civilians, most of the secessionist political outfits and the groups claiming to be fighting for human rights today highlighted the human rights violations by security forces. The occasion was the World Human Rights Day. With the exception of a couple of remarks by the Peoples Conference chairman Sajjad Gani Lone at the Hurriyat Conference (Ansari) seminar in Srinagar, none thought it expedient to criticise the human rights abuse committed by militants against the innocent civilians of Jammu & Kashmir. As usual, all others concentrated heavily and singularly on the excesses committed by security forces. In the strife-torn state, there is neither the tradition nor the culture of opening the other eye and condemning, without equivocation, incidents like brutal slaughtering of women and children by separatist militants. Speaking at a programme organised by a human rights group, Watch Victim Jammu and Kashmir, advocate Pervez Imroz criticised State Government for telling "lies" in regard to number of custodial killings and enforced disappearances. "Present State Government is no different from the previous regime. They have only changed slogans," he remarked. He pointed out that there was no visible change in Government vis-à-vis human rights. "There have been 118 enforced disappearances in Mufti Mohammed Sayeed’s regime as against 58 in 2002 and 35 in 2001," he said. Pervez said that Indian image was a big problem as it was projecting itself as the largest democracy on earth. "India has been successfully campaigning her own version of things in the outside world. Even as there is formal democracy in the State, everything is in the hands of New Delhi", he added. Earlier, chairman of the Watch Victim, G R Dar Eidee, in his address said that there was phenomenal increase in human rights’ violations in Jammu and Kashmir eversince Mufti Mohammad Sayeed led coalition Government came to power. "After the change of guards in the State, Kashmiris felt that there would be some change of guards in the behaviour from military point of view. But all these hopes vanished in the air. The PDP-led coalition Government promised and also issued orders for disbanding STF. But the ground realities are entirely different as the STF is still active on ground," he elaborated. He said that 789 civilians were killed from December 2002 to November 2003 and there were also 121 custodial killings during the same period. "Twenty two women have been raped or molested while 108 people have been disappeared during this period." He said that while terrorism in any form must be condemned, curtailing human rights and freedom of citizens was not acceptable. "There is a real fear that in the name of controlling terrorism, most of the Governments are using special laws to crush genuine struggles." Renowned physician, Dr Zaffar Mehdi accused the State Chief Minister of being party to all violations in the State. "Mr Mufti and company speak of peace, dignity and honour. If they have any dignity, they should join the freedom movement," he added. He expressed concern that the State was using rape as an instrument of suppression. "And rape destroys one’s personality and it means killing of soul." The Abbass Ansari faction of Hurriyat Conference also organised a function at Rajbagh party headquarters. The function was presided by Moulana Abbass Ansari. J&K Peoples Conference chairman, Sajjad Gani Lone was a surprise speaker on this occasion. In his speech, Sajjad presented a different viewpoint about human rights. While identifying two types of human rights violators in Jammu and Kashmir, he slammed the Indian State for perpetuating the human rights abuse. However, in the same breath he explained to the audience: "One violator is active comprising gun wielders and other is passive comprising people who keep quiet and lie, and actually are catalysts for further killings." Added he: "if we’re not willing to respect the rights of our own people, why should other country or United Nations care for us. Time has come to speak the truth and the truth only so that human rights violations are checked." Referring to the split in the ranks of Hurriyat Conference, Sajjad said, "Trying to unify after a split is un-natural. Whatever has happened has happened for good. Its purification process." The Peoples Conference chairman conveyed his support to Moulana Ansari saying: "Mr Ansari, we’re all with you. Please go ahead." Others who spoke on the occasion included Abbas Ansari, Fazl Haque Qureshi, and J&K Employees Joint Action Conference general secretary, Nissar Ali. Meanwhile, firebrand separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani and scores of protesters were arrested here while trying to stage protests across the city to mark World Human Rights Day. Geelani along with dozens of his supporters tried to stage a protest march at the Civil Lines in the Rajbagh neighbourhood. Police intervened and took him and 70 of his supporters into preventive custody and were lodged at the Rajbagh police station. In a separate incident, a local rights group, Human Watch, tried to stage a protest march in the city centre of Lal Chowk. Police fired dozens of tear gas shells to disperse the protesters and arrested about six activists who were shouting slogans against rights abuses in Kashmir by security forces. Jammu and Kashmir Liberation front (JKLF) too tried to take out a procession in the Maisuma neighbourhood, where its headquarters is situated. The procession, comprising dozens of protestors, was led by JKLF vice chairman, Javed Ahmed Mir, who was arrested after police dispersed the procession. Mirwaiz Omar Farooq’s Awami Action Committee also took out a procession in Regal Chowk area of Lal Chowk. However, police dispersed the protesters and arrested several of its activists including Mohammed Yaqoob Vakil. |
|
BJP dares Congress, JKNPP to get
implemented Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: State vice president and BJP spokesman Prof Hari Om has challenged the Congress and Panthers Party to prove their sincerity towards the people of Jammu region by making their Government to adopt a Bill in the current Assembly session regarding implementation of Wazir Commission report or quit it immediately. He dismissed as vague and meaningless the statements of Pradesh Congress Committee president Ghulam Nabi Azad and Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma that Wazir Commission report would be implemented. He also termed as hollow and laughable the threat by JKNPP supremo that his party would surely withdraw its support to PDP-led Government after three months in case it failed to implement the said report by that deadline. Prof Hari Om said that such statements and threats will have no impact whatever on the people of Jammu region as they are convinced that both Congress and Panthers party leaders have neither the courage nor the will to take up their cause or oppose the anti-Jammu policies of Valley centric PDP. Prof Hari Om also asked them to demonstrate their commitment to the refugees from West Pakistan by moving a Bill in the on-going Assembly session that amends the State Subject Definition of 1927, State Civil Services Rules, the J&K People’s Representation Act of 1957 and the Panchayati Raj Act and enable them to acquire jobs under the State Government and acquire immovable property anywhere in the State. |
|
PDP committed to overall development: Motan Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: People’s Democratic Party general secretary Ramesh Motan has said that ruling coalition was committed for the overall development of the State and especially rural areas. He said that Chief Minister was putting in his consistent efforts and it was towards this end that remotest of areas were now getting special attention. Addressing PDP activists and workers in a meeting organised by Zone president Devinder Sharma at Dhok Khalsa in Akhnoor, Mr Motan and Baldev Slathia, district president PDP (rural) stated that Government was in know of all the problems facing the people and that efforts were being made to help people come out of their miserable conditions. Mr Motan said the road to Dhok Khalsa would be taken up on priority basis to facilitate the local population. referring to dilapidated condition of Panchayat Ghar, the district president said that these are minor problems which the Government was taking note of and trying to solve at an earliest. He said at the outset a boundary wall will be constructed around Panchayat Ghar. On the occasion Sarpanch and Panches of Dhok Khalsa joined PDP and expressed their faith in the leadership of party chief Mehbooba Mufti. Prominent among those present on the occasion included Messrs Ashok Sharma, state secretary, Zafar Khan, general secretary PDP youth wing and Sukhwinder Singh, president ZPDO Labour Cell. Later a deputation of villagers from Danna Ambo Shani, Kanah and Jarala led by Baldev Slathia met PHE Minister and apprised him of the problems of the common people. |
|
89th session begins Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: Jammu and Kashmir legislature today paid glowing tributes to the veteran Buddhist leader, parliamentarian and diplomat Kushak Bakula and legislators Mohammad Yousuf Parray and Javed Hussain Shah. In separate sittings on the opening day of the 89th session, the legislative council and legislative assembly placed on record their appreciation for the contribution of the departed leaders in variant fields. Chairman Legislative Council, Abdul Rasheed Dar moved the obituary reference in the upper house while Speaker, Tara Chand initiated the proceedings in the assembly with paying tributes to the departed leaders, who expired during the intervening period of the summer and current sessions. Echoing the sentiments of the House, Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed said in the assembly that Kushak Bakula with 40 years of chequered political career remained in the forefront to focus the problems of the people. He was very articulate particularly when it came to dwelling on the problems of the masses. ‘Even during the last phase of his life, he was concerned about the difficulties faced by the people of the state in general and those of Ladakh region in particular’, he said while recalling his meeting with the patriarch in Leh in which he had expressed the desire for setting up of a university in Ladakh. Sayeed described Bakula as the spiritual leader of the Buddhists around the country and said that he commands lot of respect even in Mangolia, the country he served as Indian Ambassador for 15 years. ‘He was an elderly colleague with whom I enjoyed a good rapport’, the Chief Minister maintained. The Mufti also paid tributes to Mohammad Yousf Parray alias Kukka Parray and said that he chose a very difficult path and gave a new direction in combating militancy. Speaking on the obituary references in both the houses, Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma described Bakula as a great secularist and a spiritual leader who endeared every one and was respected by all cutting across the barriers of religion or region. Bakula, he said, strived for the unity and integrity of the country and with his passing away a void has been created that is hard to fill. Paying tributes to Kukka Parray, the Deputy Chief Minister said that his contribution for heralding peace in the state could not be undermined. He hoped that the compatriots would emulate the spirit of maintaining harmony and peace braving all hurdles. Minister for Science and Technology, Nawang Rigzin Jora highlighted the role of Kuskhak Bakula in strengthening harmony and development of the Ladakh region. Remembering the slain legislator Kukka Parray, the Minister said that he left an indelible mark by playing a pivotal role in combating militancy. Leader of the Opposition, Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Shah dwelt on various facets of Kushak Bakula, terming him as the architect of New Ladakh, and said he established his credentials as an ace parliamentarian and a great leader. Mohammad Yousf Tarigami paid tributes to the departed leaders and said that the path shown by Kushak Bakula is relevant to steer the state from the present morass. He paid homage to Kukka Parray, regretting that the ‘product of violence himself became a victim of violence’. Usman Majid, Balwant Singh, Manjit Singh, Ashwani Kumar and Jugal Kishore also paid rich tributes to the departed leaders. Majid said Parrey's contribution for restoration of peace cannot be ignored. This House should admit his contribution. He threw his life in danger to wipe out terrorism from the State. He said credit goes to hom for restoration of political process in State in 1996. In legislative council, Prof Bhim Singh, Abdul Qayum, P Namgiyal and A R Tukroo paid tributes to the leaders. Earlier, placing the obituary references in the two houses, Abdul Rashid Dar, Chairman and Tara Chand, Speaker highlighted the contribution of Bakula and the assassinated legislators Parray and Shah in the political sphere of the state. As a mark of respect, both the houses observed two-minutes silence and prayed for peace to the departed souls. |
|
Gold, silver ornaments seized at Lakhanpur Excelsior Correspondent KATHUA, Dec 10: Gold and silver ornaments worth Rs 70,000 and ready-made garments worth Rs 1.01 lakh were seized from two Video Coach buses being smuggled in the State during the previous night and penalty imposed on defaulters. Giving details the Deputy Sales tax Commission Lakhanpur Sales Tax Check Post Mr Ajaz A Kakroo revealed that during the routine check up of video coach buses, the suspicious movements of one Satish Kumar, resident of Amritsar travelling in Video Coach No HP01 1817 plying from Amritsar to Jammu, attracted the attention of the Check Post staff and on search the person was found to conceal gold ornaments worth Rs 50,000 in the underwear. Subsequently the search of his bag resulted in finding silver ornaments worth 20,000. The goods were accordingly seized and penalty and security of Rs 2940 recovered from the offender. In another incident the Check Post staff detected ready-made garments worth Rs 1.01 lakh from the luggage compartment of the video coach bearing No: PB13H 0637 plying from Ludhiana to Jammu. On query one Roshan Lal, R/o Kathua and Proprietor M/s Roshan Fashionwear, Kathua claimed the goods and accordingly penalty of Rs 8484 was levied and recovered from the offender. The Deputy Commissioner Sales Tax, Check Post exhorted the staff to continue with the increased vigil and check to nab the tax evaders. |
|
New Legislature Complex at Rajgarh lawns demanded Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: Private Members’ Resolutions were tabled in the Legislative Council today. The members who tabled the resolutions include P. Namgyal, Brij Mohan Sharma, Prof. Bhim Singh and Nazir Ahmad Mir. P. Namgyal in the resolution moved by him highlighted the grave problem of lack of proper accommodation for the legislators in MLA hostel. He said that the rooms of the hostel are occupied on somewhat permanent basis by Ex-MLAs and MLCs who also have threat of life. In the most insufficient accommodation of single room for MLCs and MLAs, the condition of legislators remains pathetic. The option of staying out is not acceptable as its very costly and utterly unsafe for the members. Minister for Finance, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Muzaffar Hussain Beig said that the authority in this regard rest with the Speaker of Legislative Assembly and Chairman of Legislative Council. The matter in fact is serious and must be resolved at the earliest. He assured the House that Government would give complete consideration to the proposals of Speaker and Chairman of the Houses. A meeting would be shortly called in this regard by the Heads of the Houses. The resolution was withdrawn by the member. Brij Mohan Sharma moved the resolution that House should recommend a legislature complex at Rajgarh lawns of Srinagar, the place which had remained the seat of power since the royal times and where the constitution of the State had been adopted. Supporting the resolution Bhim Singh said that remainents of Dogra rule are proud part of the glorious history of the State and must be given due importance and place by the current governance. Minister for Finance, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Mr. Muzaffar Hussain Beig said that Rs. 13 crore have already been spent on the Assembly complex which is under construction at a location between High Court and Secretariat building. The decision in this regard was taken in early 70’s by the Government of Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah. Assembly building of the most powerful legislature of the country truly is a symbol of prestige of the State, the Minister added. The issue would be sorted out by involving of committees constituted by members of both the Houses. The resolution was withdrawn with the assurance. Nazir Ahmad Mir moved the resolution demanding the establishment of a Women College at Rajouri. He said that considering the high altitude, border vicinity and social set-up of the area, a separate college for the girl students is a must. He said that the place already has an existing building for the college. Minister for Education Harshdev Singh in his reply said that the concentration of the Government is at present on consolidation of the educational facilities in the State. More and more colleges are required at various places in the State as a result of increasing competition for securing a good job. Government has already send a proposal to the Centre for a one-time grant to the construct 22 colleges in the State. Provision for a Women College at Rajouri is also kept in the proposal. The resolution was later passed by the House. |
|
Questions deferred due to
incomplete reply Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers’ Party (JKNPP) chief Prof Bhim Singh stated in the floor of the Legislative Council that it was a tragedy that he (Bhim Singh) was a partner in the coalition Government headed by Mufti Mohammed Sayed. Raising the issue of the problems of border migrants during Zero Hour, Prof Singh regretted that that despite Supreme Court’s directions justice has not been provided to some affected families. "Presently this regime is not paying any heed to our suggestions but one day they will definitely put ear on our words", he said, regretted, "it is tragedy that I am partner of this regime". Earlier reacting on the written reply of question provided by the Government, Prof Singh, whose JKNPP is a constituent of coalition Government, said that incomplete reply was deliberately supplied by the administration to hide the truth. "I come here not with the mercy of this government but as a representative of the people", he reacted while pointing towards incomplete reply. He stated in the House rules and norms were violated to appoint Additional Advocates General, Deputy Advocates General and Government Advocates. "Inexperience kith and kin of Ministers’ friends and influential persons have been appointed on these posts", he said. Prof Singh’s question was regarding number of Additional Advocate General, Deputy Advocates General appointment the Government, their names, residential addresses, period of practice of each such person. In its reply Minister of Law stated that ten Additional Advocates General and seven Deputy have been appointed by the Government. Though it was stated in the written reply that the names, residential addresses and period of practice of each law officer was given in the enclosed stated, the same was enclosed with the reply. Regarding criteria for appointment, it was stated by the Minister that for Additional Advocates General and Deputy Advocates General it was ten and seven years standing at bar respectively, besides their integrity, general reputation, honesty, commitment to the profession and willingness to work as such for the State. Prof Singh reacted sharply to the reply and stated that names, residential addresses and period of practice of these appointed officers were deliberately not enclosed with the statement as the Government want to hide its misdeeds. He stated that inexperience kith and kin of Minister’s friends and of some influential persons were appointment on these posts by violating rules and norms. Minister of Law Muzaffer Hussain Beig apologised for incomplete reply. As the reply was incomplete Chairman deferred the question. |
|
Diocese of Jammu Kashmir meets Education Minister Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: A delegation from Diocese of Jammu-Srinagar Education Society met the Education Minister Harsh Dev Singh to extend their appreciation and thanks for his active interest and ceaseless efforts to reshape the system of Education in J&K especially his Historic, Intelligent and Educationist friendly decision. The decision taken by Education Minister included permanent recognition to private educational institutions which have completed 10 years, to remove non-political involvement certificate and to delegate power to Director School Education for granting recognition upto Class VIII. Speaking on the occasion Harsh Dev Singh assured the delegates that in couples of days steps would be taken to intimate his decision, which he had announced on December 2 during his meeting with heads of Private Educational Institutions of Jammu province, to the concerned department and officials through an SRO. He also expressed his desire to improve the standard of education and to bring about suitable changes in the educational system to make life oriented, stress-free and student-friendly system. The Minister was briefed about Diocese of Jammu-Srinagar Education Society’s functioning. The Minister was delighted to see that the society is meeting the needs of nearly 24000 students mostly spread in rural areas of the State through its 34 schools and giving fee concessions to hundreds of students and free education to deserving students. The delegates at the function included Fr Vadekal, Financial Administrator, Diocese of Jammu-Srinagar, Fr Jeykumar, Chairman, Diocesan Board of education, Fr Ivan Pereira, Principal, St Peter’s School, Fr Niravathu, Vice Principal St Peter’s High School, Sr Dorita, Principal Carmel Convent School Kunjwani and Sr Archana, Principal St Mary’s Convent School, Smailpur. |
|
IGNOU starts Diploma in Geriatrics Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: With the increase in average expectancy of life the population of aged people is increasing in the society. Aged people in the evening of their life have specific physical and emotional problems which are further aggravated with break up of joint family system. To sensitise medical professionals about specific needs and diseases of the old people Indira Gandhi National Open University has started postgraduate diploma in Geriatric Medicine under their Distance Education programme. ASCOMS has been selected as nodal centre for this one year Diploma course—the first in North India. The regional consultant, IGNOU Dr K C Sharma who is a renowned surgeon conducted a workshop and exhibition at ASCOMS for the benefit of teachers and aspiring students to stress on the quality oriented delivery system under this programme. This course is open to Medical graduates from all over India. It will start from January Ist , 2004. The admission forms are also available in college as well as IGNOU Centre. Spare time for Bhakti to get salvation: Balak Yogeshwar Excelsior Correspondent SAMBA, Dec 10: Stating that worship of God is solution of all problems, Balak Bal Yogeshwar Maharaj of Badrinath today called upon people to spare time for Bhakti to get salvation. Addressing series of religious congregation at Samba and adjoining villages, Balak Bal Yogeshwar Maharaj said that one can attain eternal peace only by devotion and Bhakti. "Have faith on Thakurji (Lord Krishana) to get rid of all problems", he advised the devotees who thronged there in large number to listen his religious sermons. Amidst chanting of Jai Jai Shree Radhey, Yogeshwar Maharaj called upon the people to spare time for Pooja and Bhakti. "In this materialistic world one must spare time for God", he said and advised the people to do meditation. Balak Bal Yogeshwar, who was main source behind historical Ati Maha Vishno Yagna which was held in the Tawi Island last month, enthralled the devotees by reciting the Bhajans. There was pin-drop silence when Yogeshwar Maharaj was reciting the Bhajans. Jai Jai Shree Radhey repeatedly rented the air when Yogeshwar Maharaj completed Bhajans. Earlier a rousing reception was accorded to Balak Bal Yogeshwar who reached Samba town this afternoon. From Basntar bridge to Samba town, he was taken in a big procession. At Ram Leela Ground Samba, a big religious congregation was held. In the Samba town devotees were seen lined up to have Darshan of Balak Yogeshwar. Some devotees were seen pelting flower petals on Balak Yogeshwar. Devotees not only from Samba but adjoining villages were also gathered to seeking blessings of Balak Yogeshwar. The function at Samba started with Kirtan in which Kirtan Mandley mesmerized the devotees. Even one present in the function were seen chanting Radhey Radhey. During the Kirtan Balak Yogeshwar Maharaj himself recited three Bhajans. Large number of devotees from Jammu also accompanied Balak Yogeshwar to Samba. Way back to Jammu, a religious function was also held at Jakh. Large number devotees from Jakh and adjoining areas attended the function and participated in the Kirtan. Education standards must be further improved: Harsh Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: The Minister for Education, Harsh Dev Singh paid a visit to the national workshop on computer IT organised by Model Institute of Education and Research, here today. The Minister, while appreciating the ongoing workshop which is first of its kind in J&K State, stressed that such workshops are important for our education system. This should ultimately upgrade the education standards and benefit our students, he added. On his arrival the Education Minister was warmly welcomed by Dr Arun K Gupta, Director MIER and Dr Sarinya Sophia, National Programme Officer, RUSHAP, UNESCO, Bangkok (Thailand). The students of the MIER presented a cultural programme of Dogri, Punjabi, Kashmiri and Ladakhi items of songs and dances. Folk dances were also performed. The main theme was national unity, quality education and global peace. This 5-day workshop commenced on December 8 will conclude on December 12. Representatives from ten reputed educational institutions in India are taking part in it. In his address, Dr Arun K Gupta spoke about the role played by MIER in education sector for the past 68 years. He also lauded the introduction of computer technologies at school stage in the J&K State as it would arouse interest for learning among the students. Over Rs 2 lakh spent on equine show in Akhnoor: Minister Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: An amount of Rs 2,66,787 was spent on Divisional level Equine Show which was held at Narai-Wala tehsil Akhnoor form May 10 to May 12 this year. This was stated in a written reply by Minister of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry, Abdul Aziz Zargar to a question of Yougesh Sawhney in the Assembly today. He said the amount was spent on this show under the Preservation and Development of Pack animals (CSS) scheme. He said the equine show was required to be conducted during 2002-2003 as the funds were available during the month of March 2003 but the breeders were busy in Navratra festival and accordingly the show was conducted by May 2003. The Minister said an amount of Rs 39,383 was spent on transportation and Rs 39,665 on POL. Rs 1,00,566 were spent on the refreshment of participants in the show, he added. The Minister said an amount of Rs 87,173 was spent as prize money. In written reply to another question of Sawhney Minister Incharge Home informed the House that 29 fire hydrants are presently existing in Jammu East Constituency. Out of these five hydrants are not visible due to road widening. In a written reply to the question of Raman Bhalla the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ghulam Hassan Mir informed the House that an amount of Rs one crore each was allotted to Jammu and Srinagar Municipal Corporations. Besides Rs 50 lakh was allotted to Jammu Development Authority, he added. The Minister said in addition the development authorities have utilized their internal resources for the beautification programme. The Minister ruled out paying of compensation to the people affected due to the demolition drive saying that unauthorized constructions have mostly come up in public places. However, in some hard cases the affected persons are being rehabilitated, he added. Walkout in Assembly against
alleged Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: The two National Panthers Party (NPP) MLAs and one BJP and BSP member today staged walkout from the Assembly in protest against the alleged discrimination with Jammu region. While the BJP member, Jugal Kishore Sharma and BSP MLA Manjit Singh returned after a while , the two NPP legislators Balwant Singh Mankotia and Faqir Nath boycotted the House for the day. The trouble started soon after the House passed the Obituary reference in memory of its former members Kushap Bakula and Kukka Parrey, the BJP MLA Jugal Kishore stood up from his seat to seek a reply from the Government on the recent police lathicharge on Ashwani Sharma an independent member of the House who was leading a demonstration of Jammu Statehood Morcha (JSM). Jugal Kishore wanted to seek a reply from the Government on this important issue. He was joined by the PP Legislator Balwant Singh and BSP MLA Manjit Singh who alleged that Jammu region is facing a constant discrimination through the hands of the new Government. The member taking an order copy in hand wanted a reply from the Government that why 32 employees belonging to Jammu have been retrenched in Agriculture Department while 256 were appointed recently. When the Speaker did not allow them to speak, they staged a walkout in protest. Jugal Kishore, while expressing concern over the rising discrimination with Jammu alleged that the voice of people is being suppressed. Pointing towards ministers from the region, he said Jammu is subjected to discrimination and you are watching as silent spectators. Later he left the House in protest. Separate Horticulture
Directorate proposed Excelsior Correspondent KATHUA, Dec 10 : Eyeing on to bring green revolution in the state, Minister for Agriculture Abdul Aziz Zargar launched an ambitious Rs. 5.31 crore Kashmir-Kathua Canal Project under Command Area Development Programme here yesterday. The project envisages to bring 8463 hectares of land under various on farm development works for boosting agriculture productivity in the district. Field channels on 3422 hectares, field drains on 3,000 hectares and land leveling and reshaping on 500 hectares of land would be done under the programme besides reclamation of a huge water logged cultivable land in the district. The Minister also inaugurated a massive farmers’ mela-cum-exhibition organised by the Command Area Development in coordination with agriculture and allied departments. Nearly, 50 stalls depicting major achievements registered in agriculture, horticulture, animal and sheep husbandry sectors were put up at the exhibition. Chairman Scheduled Caste Advisory Board, Girdhari Lal, District Development Commissioner, Kathua and heads of agriculture and allied departments besides a large number of progressive farmers were present on the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, Zargar said that coalition Government is making strenuous efforts to make Jammu and Kashmir self sufficient in food production. He said that Rs. 3.40 crore vegetable development project would be launched to make Jammu division self sufficient in vegetable production in next five years. He said presently six blocks of Jammu falling under command area are producing surplus vegetables adding that about 90,000 metric tons of vegetables are being produced against a requirement of 66,000 metric tons per year. The surplus quantity is being exported from the area to adjoining vegetable mandis at Vijaypur, Samba and Katra. While emphasising on diversification of agriculture, the Minister urged the need for fodder and pasture development to promote livestock in a big way. He also called for commercial exploitation of floriculture, apiculture and mushroom cultivation adding that these sectors have tremendous market potential locally. He also urged for integrated pest management to check spread of various plant diseases. The Minister also announced to launch four more command area projects in Rajouri, Doda, Gool and Arnas areas in near future to boost agriculture productivity on modern lines. Govt to probe diversion of
funds meant for Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: The Government today announced to hold an enquiry into the alleged misappropriation and diversion of funds meant for reconstruction of militancy damaged bridges in the State. Stating this in the Legislative Council, the Minister for R&B Madan Lal Sharma said that the enquiry report would be tabled in the House during the current session and if necessary the case would be referred to the vigilance organization for a thorough probe. Earlier, replying to the question raised by Tariq Hamid Karra, the Minister said that Rs. 103.73 crore were received from the Government of India between 1996 and 1999 for the reconstruction of major bridges gutted during militancy. He said from 1999 onwards, the funds for the purpose were provided from the State plan. The Minister said the amount provided from the Government of India was exclusively utilized for reconstruction of gutted bridges. However some bridges other than the gutted were also taken up for execution on the orders of the then Chief Minister and the Works Minister. However, Mr. Karra while quoting from the report of the Comptroller and Auditor General said that Rs. 6 crore were diverted to other works out of the Central funds meant for the reconstruction of gutted bridges. Quoting from the same report he said that there was no account of another installment of Rs. 192 crore released by the Central Government for the purpose. Responding to the allegations levelled by Mr. Karra, the Minister announced to hold an enquiry into the matter to fix responsibility. He also assured the House that action would be taken against the officials who have provided wrong information, if any to the august House. Mufti Govt a total failure: Omar Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: National Conference (NC), chief Omar Abdullah said that his Party does not believe in false promises like present coalition Government headed by Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. Addressing a function at Chand Kour Smad, Below Gummat today, he said the coalition Government had made false promises on curbing human rights violations and giving employment to every house. But this Government has proved a total failure on all fronts, he added. He said NC was never after power but for the welfare and upliftment of the people of the state. He said the present Government which has many contradictions will fall under its own weight and under these circumstances the NC will discharge its Constitutional obligations. On the occasion 16 prominent citizens joined the Party under the leadership of Mr Abdullah. Welcoming their entry into the Party fold he said the new entrants will strengthen the party and take its programme to every nook and corner. The NC is committed to the development of all the three regions of the state, he added. The Provincial president of the Party, Ajay Sadhotra while welcoming their entry in the Party fold asked them to strengthen the hands of Omar Abdullah. He made a scathing attack on coalition Government saying it has failed on all fronts and people of state are fed up with it. Among others the function was attended by senior leaders of the party including Abdul Rahim Rather, Rattan Lal Gupta, Rachpal Singh , Sajjad Ahmed Kichloo, MLAs and Begum Zubeda Salaria, ex MLA. Human Rights Day observed Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: International Human Rights Day was observed by SOS, an international organisation for PoK refugees here today. Chairman of the organisation, Mr Rajiv Chuni while speaking on the occasion said that human rights of lakhs of refugees from POK continued to be blatantly ignored by the powers that be in the State and the Centre. The Congress which ruled the country for 45 years paid scant regard to the problems confronting these unfortunate people who were forced to flee their homes bare-footed leaving behind all their belongings, they are not being accorded the status of refugees till date. Their claims against property left back have not been registered so far. What is more painful is that BJP led NDA government which has been in the power too has not cared to solve the problems and give justice. The refugees have too, meted out step motherly treatment from BJP Government. He pointed out that Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s approach towards two sections of displaced persons is different. While it is biased against refugees now in Jammu, in case of displaced persons from Kashmir and that too of a particular section, it has provided liberal assistance. The others who spoke on the occasion, included Sohal Singh, Yash Pal Gupta, Dr Gurmeet Singh, Jagan Nath Thapar, Rajinder Rana and R K Kohli. 1000 mobile phone connections released Excelsior Correspondent KATHUA, Dec 10: One thousand mobile phone connections were issued by the BSNL authorities through lucky draw system for Kathua town here today. District and Sessions Judge, Kathua J R Kotwal was the special invitee to witness the occasion. Chief General Manager BSNL J&K Circle, Arun Kumar and General Manager R K Koul were also present besides other senior officials. Out of the total 1160 applications received 1000 new mobile connections were released today through lucky draw for Kathua town only. One Babu Ram Sharma of serial No. 289 was the first in the list of lucky draw. The BSNL authorities said that a list will be published in the news-papers and as per the serial-wise list, sim cards will be issued shortly to the subscribers. Kathua is the third district after Jammu and Srinagar where this facility is being provided. CM for making women equal partners in all spheres Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today stressed the need for changing the mindset about the rights of women to make them equal partners in all spheres, saying that this calls for launching a massive awareness campaign across the State on a sustained basis. Addressing a rally organized by Jammu and Kashmir State Social Welfare Board in connection with Women’s Protection Day in the Secretariat premises here this evening, the Chief Minister regretted that in our society daughter is considered as a burden even by her parents and this tendency has to be shed. He said that the daughters should get share of their parents’ property, which would help in women empowerment largely. He said though the State has made a sufficient headway in women education but there is still need to promote female literacy. Mufti Sayeed said that the situation on women empowerment front has improved considerably and we have 5 women chief ministers in our country. He said yet all of us have to make more effort for achieving the objective of greater women empowerment. The Chief Minister said that social welfare department has to act as a catalyst for ensuring speedy implementation of women welfare schemes. He said there is a greater need to bring women empowerment under focussed attention, as plenty of funds are available under various schemes. Referring to the charter of demands presented to him on the occasion, the Chief Minister said that it would be examined for appropriate follow up action. He said he would convene a meeting of the social welfare board shortly and discuss ways and means for women empowerment. Minister for Social Welfare Mula Ram dwelt on various schemes launched for women welfare and said that adequate steps are taken to check their rights violations. He said the awareness campaign would be yearlong and carried even in the far-flung areas of the State so that not only the women but the society as a whole is made conscious of rights of women. Minister for Health and Medical Education Ch. Lal Singh said that family welfare never means female foeticide as the female population has already decreased. He said still there are medical practitioners, who resort to conducting sex determination tests of unborn children, which is a cause of concern for every one. He said these tendencies have to be curbed effectively. He said the coalition Government is taking several initiatives for welfare of women. Chairman State Social Welfare Board G. M. Saroori gave a resume of the activities of the board. He also spoke about the aims and objectives of the awareness campaign. Among others who also spoke on the occasion included Mrs. Rita Jitendra, Ms Hafiza and Ms Seema Khajuria. Earlier, a rally was taken out from Women College Parade Ground to the Secretariat lawns. Around 400 students of the college and women rights activists took part in it as part of the Women’s Protection Day. Farooq announces Rs 5 lakh
for Silver Bells High School Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: Choosing not to give any political statement at annual day function of a school, National Conference president and Member Parliament Omar Abdullah today stressed the need to provide balanced education to the children for their overall development. "I don’t want to touch politics at this function despite the fact that my heart is full of anger against the mis-rule of the coalition Government. As this function is purely apolitical I would like to touch students related issues", he said while addressing the annual day function of Silver Bells High School this evening. He, however, said that in the morning he, in an other function, gave vent his feelings against the Mufti Mohammad Sayeed-led coalition Government for its misrule and mis-governance. "I still want to speak on the issue as the people are the sufferers and made to suffer further", he further said, adding "even my party legislators expressed their anguish over the policies of the Government in both the Houses and even staged walk-out". Coming to the real topic, Abdullah said that good academic foundation alongwith excellence in the extra-curricular activities was necessary to excel in the life particularly in the present time. He termed the annual day function as unique show of national integration and said that by way of presenting items depicting art and culture of the other states the students of the Silver Bells High School have conveyed to all that they are being imparted balanced education. Former Chief Minister and Member Parliament (Rajya Sabha) Dr Farooq Abdullah in his brief speech said that India’s future would be very bright as young generation was all set to take it to new heights. He also announced Rs five lakh for the laboratory of the Silver Bells High School provided the school was upgraded to the Higher Secondary level. In her address, the MD of the School Vijay Lakshmi Dutta said that Silver Bells High School will shortly start boarding school at Nagrota in collaboration with British School, New Delhi. Earlier, the students of the school presented various colourful items and delivered speeches about topics like unemployment, population explosion, terrorism and deadly diseases. Omar inaugurates Royal Institute of Driving’s new office Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: National Conference president and Member Parliament Omar Abdullah today inaugurated the new office Royal Institute of Driving and Maintenance at Talab Tillo here. Speaking on the occasion, Abdullah stressed the need to inculcate road sense among the people particularly among the school and college going youth, who he said were least brothered about the rules and regulations of driving the vehicles. "There is a need to streamline the system of issuance of the driving licence as the same is in very shabby State of affair", he said while mentioning about the manner of conducting trial test before giving driving license. He was highly impressed with the display of various road safety rules in the Institute and said that hardly few of them are seen displayed on the roads. "There is necessity to update the system of displaying road safety signs on the roads and evolving a system so that vehiclists would follow them strictly", he further stressed. Earlier Director of the Institute Surinder SIngh Jamwal apprised the chief guest that the Institute has been imparting quality training to the people and making them aware of the rules of regulations of driving. "Royal Institute is the first institution which is going to complete its two decades in 2004 and by them it would start fimulator system in all its office", he said and added that due to the quality training the Institute has received so many awards at State, national and international level. He further said that Institute will shortly open its office at Janipur. National Conference’s present and former legislators—Abdul Rahim Rather, Surjeet Singh Slathia, Ajay Sadhotra, Sajjaid Kitchoo, G A Lone, Mushtaq Ahmed Bukhari, Depinder Kour, Ram Pal and Brij Mohan Sharma were also present on the occasion. Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Dec 10: Army late tonight picked-up two Poonch youths for questioning from Hotel Nek at Gumat Chowk in heart of the City. Official sources said the Army personnel cordoned off Hotel Nek late in the night and with the help of City police carried out searches in the hotel room. Two youths, hailing from Poonch, who had recently returned from Saudi Arabia, were detained for |
