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| Pakistan communalising polity in J&K: Marwah NEW DELHI, Nov 17: Slamming the "power structure in theocratic Pakistan" for dividing the secular polity in Jammu and Kashmir along communal lines, Jharkhand Governor and former supercop Ved Marwah has said that the main goal of Islamabad’s.....more Pass
percentage goes up in Leh Excelsior Correspondent LEH, Nov 17 : The pass percentage in the matriculation examination during last year remained 40% in Government schools of Leh.......more JKNPP
organises Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party today organised a Shardhanjali Sabha to pay tributes to late Jagdish Singh........more Mattoo
completes one year in office Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Jammu University today felicitated Prof G V R Prasad of Department of Geology, JU....more Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Nov 17: As proposed the provincial meeting of (JEWA) Judicial Employees Welfare..............more |
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BSF says
ultras may SRINAGAR, Nov 17: The Border Security Force, handing over the anti-insurgency operations to Central Reserve Police Force in Kashmir valley, today said militants might carry out attacks on its personnel to "get even" with the force that has made a "dent" in militancy in Jammu and Kashmir...........more Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17 : To meet the growing needs of mobility, the Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation would be operating night services in the State shortly besides introducing double-decker......more Immediate
removal of Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Alleging that Administrator of Auqaf Islamia Jammu has been unleashing spree of excesses and high handedness on poor tenants......more Jammu’s
heritage Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: In connection with the heritage week celebrations, a ten day long exhibition of Jammu’s heritage.......more |
Pakistan communalising polity in J&K: Marwah NEW DELHI, Nov 17: Slamming the "power structure in theocratic Pakistan" for dividing the secular polity in Jammu and Kashmir along communal lines, Jharkhand Governor and former supercop Ved Marwah has said that the main goal of Islamabad’s domestic and foreign policy is the break-up of the Indian union. "In a state, where the overwhelming population was against communal politics at the time of partition, the fudamentalist forces have managed to penetrate into the secular polity," he said while delivering a talk on ‘India’s internal security challenges’ here recently. Expressing concern at the rise of fundamentalist forces in India’s neighbouring "hostile states", the former convenor of the internal security cell of the National Security Council said this was the most serious threat to India’s security. "Unfortunately, the rise of contentious politics based on sectarian, ethnic, linguistic or other divisive criteria is primarily responsible for the many communal and secessionist movements flourishing in India. The presence of hostile neighbours enables the internal conflicts to get external support, which includes money, arms and sanctuaries. The vested interests exploit these conditions to pursue their own agenda," said Mr Marwah. "The intelligence agencies in our neighbourhood and the organisations, like the Al-Qaeda and the Jaish-e-Mohammad, are encouraging the so-called ‘Jehadis’ to enter India... Fired with religious zeal... These forces are not only indulging in subversive activities, but are spreading the virus of fundamentalism among the Indian Muslims," he pointed out. The power structure in Pakistan, dominated by the army, feudal lords, the bureaucracy and the religious leaders has been able to retain its hold over the levers of power by playing the anti-India and Islamic cards, he noted. Pakistan did not miss any opportunity to play the Islamic card in its foreign policy too and tried to club India as an anti-Islamic country where Muslims were not safe, he observed. He conceded that Pakistan’s efforts had "succeeded only when our own political mismanagement provided it with an opportunity to intervene, as in 1965 and again in 1989." While welcoming the Centre’s recent move to appoint Deputy Prime Minister L K Advani to talk to the separatist Hurriyat Conference in the state, he cautioned that India would have to regain the initiative both on the political as well as diplomatic fronts and not allow Pakistan to set the Kashmir agenda. While pointing out that Pakistan had no legal case on Kashmir he said the initial hesitation of Raja Hari Singh to sign the instrument of accession and India’s offer to hold a plebiscite in the state had "given Pakistan an excuse to challenge the legality of the accession." Mr Marwah said "waging of a proxy war fits into Pakistan’s designs of bleeding India," as that country had been unable to grab Jammu and Kashmir by force. The weakness of the administrative system in the state had only enabled Pakistan to carry forward its evil design and it had actively encouraged the anti-national forces and succeeded in building a pro-Pakistan base in the State. Underlining the need to speed up development work in the state and address the problems faced by the people, he said the ground situation did not justify over-optimism and there would be "many ups and downs on this long tortuous road to peace." Stressing that development could be an effective "antidote" to militancy, Mr Marwah, who was a former Governor of Manipur, said in a well-established political system and a developed economy, conflicts were kept under check and got assimilated in the national identity in due course. In India, the democratic institutions and state structures were still not strong enough to harmonise these conflicts in a peaceful manner, he noted. When these conflicting interests could not be consensually reconciled, it led to violence. "The hostile external forces, taking advantage of this situation through subversive propaganda, further accentuate these conflicts." He regretted that in their lust for power, some Governments had actually joined hands with the anti-national forces. They did not view the problem from a long-term perspective but "bought temporary peace by compromising with the subversive forces." Coming down hard on the security forces, he said even some sections of the police force compromised with the rebels. Thus the police-politician-criminal nexus emboldened the criminal elements and alienated the people. Development was the casualty of the increasing lawless and criminal atmosphere with even the delivery of the most basic services like water, power, healthcare, education and communication becomes a stupendous task.’’ (UNI) |
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Pass
percentage goes up in Leh Excelsior Correspondent LEH, Nov 17 : The pass percentage in the matriculation examination during last year remained 40% in Government schools of Leh district due to the concerned efforts made by the Village Education Committees (VECs), Education Department and NGOs. The elections to the new VECs are being held on November 25. To have dedicated VECs, the Hill Council Leh has decided to undertake an education campaign to create awareness among the masses to provide quality education to their children. It has been dedicated to the revered spiritual and political leader Rev. K.G. Bakula and named as ‘Kushak Bakula Memorial Education Campaign’. The Chief Executive Councilor, LAHDC, Thupstan Chhewang today flagged off the campaign from the Hill Council premises. All the Councilors went to their respective halqas with functionaries of the education department to create awareness among the masses. Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Thupstan said that K.G.Bakula had dedicated his whole life for promotion of education in Ladakh. His painstaking and untiring visits even to the remotest places on foot in 50’s, 60’s and 70’s to make the people aware about education have borne fruit and now most of the offices in Leh district are headed by locals while a large number of students are on roll in schools. He said that more efforts are required to further improve the reach and quality of education in the area. Mr Chhewang said that the pass percentage in matriculation which had down to 5 per cent in 1995 has now considerably improved and reached 40% in 2002-03 examinations. Dwelling on the working of VECs, organizing of awareness rallies by the education department and NGO’s, he hoped that new VECs would further improve the system. He urged upon the Councillors, officers of education department and functionaries of NGOs like SECMOL to undertake extensive tours of all the villages of the district and help educate the masses in sending their children to schools. The Executive Councillor Education Rigzin Spalbar speaking about the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan said that the Government is providing adequate funds and infrastructure to enroll children in the schools. He said that from now on every year the education campaign would be launched from November 4, the death anniversary of Kushak Bakula and conclude on November 14, the birth anniversary of Pt. Jawaharlal Nehru. The Chief Executive Councillor appreciated the students of SECMOL School in visiting various far-off villages like Waris Fastan and Largyab to create awareness about education. |
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JKNPP
organises Shardhanjali Sabha to pay Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party today organised a Shardhanjali Sabha to pay tributes to late Jagdish Singh, Principal of Pawan Sarswati Vidyalaya on 13th day of his sad demise. People from cross sections of the society attended the Shardhanjali Sabha and paid their respectful homage to great revolutionary late Jagdish Singh who was younger brother of chairman Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party, Prof Bhim. While paying tributes to late Jagdish Singh, Minister of Education Harsh Dev Singh described him a great revolutionary who in his entire life worked for the welfare of the society. Education Minister said that late Jagdish Singh has set example for younger generation. He further recalled that late Jagdish Singh never compromised with his principles. Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party (JKNPP) chief Prof Bhim Singh, while paying heartfelt tributes to his brother termed him a great revolutionary who never relented and always inspired young people. Prof Singh recalled how late Jagdish Singh inspired him even during odd moments of his life. JKNPP chief said that during his life late Jagdish Singh worked dedicatedly and sincerely for the welfare and upliftment of the weaker sections of the society. He said that Jagdish Singh’s life was dedicated for the welfare of the society. Minister of State for Agriculture, Yash Paul Kundal also paid tributes to the departed soul and described him a man who always inspired younger people. While recalling his contribution during his lifetime, participants termed him as great social worker, revolutionary and educationist of par excellence. Remembering his association with Prof Bhim Singh and other student leaders of his time, speakers termed him as hardworker, visionary and inspiration for many of his associates during his lifetime. He was very vocal and never afraid of speaking truth and always took cudgels with suppressive Kashmir rulers of his time. Others who paid tributes to late Jagdish Singh included Sardar Mushtaq Ahmad Khan, state president of JKNPP, Faquir Nath, MLA Chennani, Bansi Lal Sharma, Daljeet Singh, Susheela Jamwal, Yash Paul Yash, Suresh, Kuljeet Singh, Rajinder Jamwal, Vilakshan Singh, Bupinder Singh, Rajinder Manju, Satpaul Sharma, Suresh Gupta, Anita Thakur, Jagdev Singh, Satpaul from Doda, Kundal Lal Sharma, Amrik Singh Tara, Javed Qadri, Pankaj Sharma and others. |
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Mattoo
completes one year in office Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Jammu University today felicitated Prof G V R Prasad of Department of Geology, JU, on his selection for prestigious Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Award for the year 2003. It was a two in one as the occasion coincided with completion of Vice-Chancellor Prof Amitabh Mattoo’s one year in office. Speakers on the occasion, highlighted achievements of Jammu University during Vice-Chancellorship of Prof Amitabh Mattoo and highly appreciated the dedication of Prof Prasad towards his work. Prof Amitabh Mattoo honoured Prof Prasad by offering him a shawl. The Geology Professor of JU, has been selected for the award for his work on Earth, atmosphere, ocean and planetary science. Speaking on the occasion, Prof Mattoo expressed his pleasure over the selection of Prof Prasad for the prestigious award and assured that Jammu University would try to provide maximum facilities to its scholars for their research work. Listing achievements of the University and other special programmes launched during the last one year, Prof Mattoo also discussed the projects which are in pipeline and sought co-operation of all in accomplishing the tasks. The Vice-Chancellor stressed that everyone in the University, including himself, would be made accountable and those who perform well will be awarded. Earlier, Prof Prasad said that teachers and scholars of Jammu University have the potential to excel in all fields if they are provided required facilities for the research work. He said that his selection for the prestigious award was a kind of inspiration to do better. "More satisfaction is that my work has been recognised by the scientists," Prof Prasad added. Dean Academic Affairs Prof Santokh Ram and JU Registrar, Dr J S Dev, also spoke on the occasion and congratulated Prof Prasad for his selection for the most prestigious Indian award in science. They also lauded the leadership qualities of Prof Mattoo and hoped that JU would soon attain the status of a world class University. Proceedings of the programme, were conducted by Director External Relations Dr Pritam Singh. |
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Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Nov 17: As proposed the provincial meeting of (JEWA) Judicial Employees Welfare Association (Kashmir province) was held here under the presidentship of M A Mir. Besides provincial body, some senior members also participated. Candidature of State president was threadbare discussed and Mr Abdul Salam Dar, was unanimously selected for post of State president. Other office bearers to the State body from Kashmir province included Mirza Nazir Ahmad as state vice president, Abdul Subhan Dar as state organisor, Mohammad Akbar Mir and Bilal Ahmad Shah as ex-officio members. Executive members included Mufti Kaisar, Molvi Muzaffar Hussain, Aijaz Ahmad Wafai, Abdul Hamid Padroo and Mohammad Amin. The newly elected office bearers of JEWA resolved not to leave any stone unturned in getting settled pending demands and issues. Members assured full support to the new team and congratulated Dar for occupying highest seat of JEWA and pinned high hopes on him. Mr Dar appealed the general employees of Judicial Department to remain united and advised them to work hard with zeal and dedication. Mr Hafizullah who was elected as district president on November 15 was congratulated by Mohd Akbar Mir provincial president and other members present on the occasion. |
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BSF says ultras may target
personnel as they SRINAGAR, Nov 17: The Border Security Force, handing over the anti-insurgency operations to Central Reserve Police Force in Kashmir valley, today said militants might carry out attacks on its personnel to "get even" with the force that has made a "dent" in militancy in Jammu and Kashmir. "We have intercepts that militants may attempt spectacular attacks on BSF as the force has been in the forefront of fighting militancy in Jammu and Kashmir for the past decade," BSF Inspector General Vijay Raman said. "That is why we are not making the move-out schedule public at places we are making way for the CRPF to take over," he added. The ultras were desperate to "get even with BSF which has made a severe dent in the militancy in the state," he said. Group of Ministers for security earlier this year decided to hand over the counter-insurgency operations to CRPF while BSF would be sent to guard the borders. Highlighting the role of the force in changing the situation in the State, Raman said BSF has to its credit neutralising 2040 militants from 1990 to October 2003. The force arrested 9525 militants and 918 anti-national elements surrendered during the same period, he said. The arms recovered by the force included 5495 weapons of all types besides 7 lakh rounds of assorted ammunition, 785 wirless sets, 6950 kgs of explosives and 986 pieces of IEDs during this period, he said. This year alone, BSF neutralised 109 militants, arrested 199 ultras and recovered 241 weapons of all varieties and about 350 Kgs of explosives, Raman said. However, these successes have taken its price as BSF had to sacrifice the lives of 668 personnel while 3191 were injured during 1990 to 2003, whereas in 2003 alone, 24 BSF personnel attained martyrdom and 102 personnel were injured in their efforts in upholding the nation’s sovereignty and integrity, he said. Meanwhile, Inspector General of CRPF V B Singh said his force was ready to meet the challenge and rise upto the expectations of the people and the Government in tackling militancy. "We will take over all the positions held by BSF initially. Later we will decide whether the deployment is sufficient or not," Singh said. Asked if the force was fully geared up to meet the challenges of anti-insurgency operations, Singh said, "this is nothing new to us. We have already been involved in the operations". He said several companies of CRPF were part of the special task force of security forces which are combatting militancy in the state. On the human rights front, Singh said, "we are a people-oriented force and upholding human rights is part of training curriculum of the CRPF." (PTI) |
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SRTC to operate night
services, double-decker buses Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17 : To meet the growing needs of mobility, the Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation would be operating night services in the State shortly besides introducing double-decker buses on several routes and preprinted tickets. It also plans to set up control rooms at Srinagar and Jammu and a separate fund of Rs. 50 lakh for insurance cover for the fleet. The decisions to this effect were taken at the 58th meeting of the Board of Directors of the corporation, which met with Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma in chair here this morning. To start with, the corporation would operate night services on selected routes and extend it to other routes in a phased manner. The meeting threadbare discussed the performance of the corporation and suggested various measures for bringing it out of red. The corporation has set a target of earning a revenue of Rs. 6 crore per month and bringing its cumulative mileage to 5.5 crore kilometer with a minimum 150 kilometer by a passenger bus and 90 kilometer by load carriers per day. It also plans to introduce journey sheets, daily deployment and revenue report, weekly crew and route-wise performance, detention statements, which would help to improve the efficiency of the fleet. The board was informed that the corporation has taken several steps for checking the leakages, removal of permanent checkers, exemplary punishment to serious offenders and making the existing fleet fully operational. The board agreed in principal for setting up shelters at important destinations and providing other amenities to passengers. To exploit the assets of the corporation, the board authorized it for setting up Petrol Pumps at Pampore, Jammu and Batote with IOC collaboration, transferring land at Pampore, Jammu, Railway Headquarter and Udhampur to Motor Vehicles Department and auction of surplus land at Pampore. The board also authorized the corporation to introduce the logo for its fleet and launch incentive scheme for the employees. It was agreed to reduce the strength of the corporation to 3500 employees from the existing 5041 in a phased manner, besides freezing the posts lying vacant for more three months. No recruitment in the corporation would be made without the approval of the chairman and those showing good performances would be suitably rewarded. The corporation has an ambitious plan of providing tickets through internet and giving refunds in lieu of canceled tickets. The corporation would also be launching its Website to provide information about its out reach, services, routes operated with timings, fare structure, online booking, complaints and suggestions. Mr. Sharma said that it should be obligatory for the Government departments to requisition the truck fleet of the corporation for making its optimum use. He said efforts should also be made to reduce the detention of vehicles and making the buses roadworthy after conducting necessary repairs. He also asked for proper inventriasation of SRTC assets and their fullest utilization. The Deputy Chief Minister asked the Managing Director to revive the SRTC Football team and seek guidance from the old and experienced players for this purpose. Earlier, Managing Director, SRTC A. K. Mehta briefed the board about the steps taken to rejuvenate the corporation and restore its financial health. Among others, the meeting was attended by Ashok Sharma, former MLA, Principal Secretary, Planning and Development, Vijay Bakaya, Principal Secretary, Transport, Amit Khushari, Transport Commissioner, A. C. Chaturvedi, General Manager, J&K Bank and other board members. |
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Immediate removal of
Administrator Auqaf Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Alleging that Administrator of Auqaf Islamia Jammu has been unleashing spree of excesses and high handedness on poor tenants, Chamber of Commerce and Industries, Muslim Federation, Rajinder Bazar Traders Association, Auqaf tenants and Citizen Forum Jammu today threatened to start agitation if Administrator G H Mir was not removed within 15 days. Talking to media-persons, Ram Sahai, Talat Niaz Qazi, Satpaul, Rameshwar Sharma and Devinder Singh said "Mr Mir is hell bent to squeeze the blood of poor tenants and widows by asking them either to pay hefty amount as rent or leave the property of Auqaf Department", adding that instead of doing some social work, the Administrator has been creating terror among the tenants and whenever approached he used unparliamentary language. The officer, who even don’t know how to behave with the womenfolk and Maulanas , they said, has no right to occupy the chair of Administrator Auqaf Islamia Jammu and apprehended that such behaviour of Mir could lead to communal violence in the Jammu. "In a meeting which was also attended by PDP MLA Shanti Devi the Administrator openly said that what he has been doing are the instructions of Chief Minister and he can go to any extent to implement the directions of the Mufti Sayeed", president of Rajinder Bazar Traders Association said. Mr Talat Niaz Qazi alleged that crores of rupees have been received by the Administrator Auqaf Islamia Jammu by leasing out properties of Auqaf but the conditions of mosque and graveyards continued to be worst as the money is not being used for the pious purpose for which it is meant. He demanded a thorough probe by Vigilance Organisation into the whole gamut of affairs. Expressing anguish over the dictatorial attitude of Mr Mir, they threatened to start agitation if the officer was not removed from the post of Administrator of Auqaf Islamia within 15 days. Holding Mufti Mohammad Sayeed responsible for the grievances of Auqaf tenants, Mr Qazi said "such a situation had never erupted in the regime of Dr Farooq Abdullah but Mufti Government by way of appointing such a person has conveyed to all that the Chief Minister is not interested in mitigating the sufferings of people", Mr Qazi said. |
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Jammu’s heritage on display in exhibition on JU Campus Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: In connection with the heritage week celebrations, a ten day long exhibition of Jammu’s heritage, was inaugurated in the Jammu University Gymnasium Hall, here today. Rare artefacts, ranging from gallantry award, Victoria Cross, to coins of ancient time and rare ornaments of historical importance to the world famous Basohli paintings, have been displayed in the exhibition. A Chinese flag, captured by General Zorawar Singh during his expedition to Tibet, Kangur- a religious voluminous text written with pure gold, original Pattas (official letters of Maharaja Gulab Singh and Ranbir Singh’s time, are at display in the unique exhibition. The exhibition has been organised by the Heritage Cell of Jammu University and the Centre for History and Culture, Jammu and Ladakh, JU, in collaboration with Archaeological Survey of India. Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma inaugurated the exhibition in a formal function which was also attended by JKNPP chief Prof Bhim Singh, Major General (Retd) Goverdhan Singh, Mr Ved Bhasin and a number of senior citizens. Vice-Chancellor Prof Amitabh Mattoo presided over the function while P B S Singhal, Superintendent of Archaeological Survey of India, had arrived here specially for the occasion. Speaking on the occasion, Mangat Ram Sharma stressed the need to preserve Jammu’s heritage which has the contribution of different regimes in the region and said that the State Government would take all possible measures for the same. He also supported the idea of opening a full fledged department of Archaeology in Jammu University and said that funds for creation of the department may be allocated from the State Government. The Deputy Chief Minister appreciated the initiative taken by Jammu University and lauded Vice-Chancellor Prof Amitabh Mattoo for his constructive works. Earlier, Superintendent of Archaeological Survey of India Mr P B S Singhal, while speaking on the occasion, suggested opening of a Department of Archaeological Studies in the University for studies and research in this field. Lamenting over the non-preservation of historic monuments in Jammu region, Mr Singhal expressed his reservations over the purposed Cable Car project linking Mubarak Mandi and Bagh-e-Bahu. Speaking on the occasion, Vice Chancellor Prof Amitabh Mattoo, listed the objectives of JU Heritage Cell and said that the step was a sincere effort by the University to help and develop awareness about Jammu’s heritage within and outside the Campus. Despite the fact that the Cell was launched only in the month of April, this year, it has done a lot in this direction and developed linkage with civil society, like-minded NGOs and institutions in Jammu to take steps to build-in archives related issues. JKNPP chief and MLC Prof Bhim Singh, who was guest of honour on the occasion, announced Rs 5 lacs for preservation of Krimchi temples in Udhampur and for construction of the road linking the historic temples. Convenor of the JU Heritage Cell Prof Zahur-ud-Din, listed the steps taken by the Cell and said that the ongoing exhibition was the first step towards setting up of a permanent museum on the Campus. On the occasion, the Deputy Chief Minister also released a catalogue of the exhibition while young Sohan Singh Billowaria donated his painting of Basohli art to Prof Mattoo for the University collection. |
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KV Principal acquitted Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: In a significant judgment showing concern over the credibility of prime Investigating Agency of the Country, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the Special Judge Anti-Corruption Jammu, Mr MK Hanjura, today, acquitted the accused PS Ahluwalia, the then Principal Kendriya Vidyalaya Jindrah who was caught red handed allegedly by CBI team and recovered rupees 1,000 bribe money from him. In his 18 page judgment, Mr Hanjura expressed displeasure and passed strictures against the Investigating Officer of CBI by saying that from the statements of the witnesses that it was the Investigating Officer who has been architect of the trap whereby the service career of a teacher has been ruined. The complainant who has been made to spill beans in his statement, has stated that the Investigating Officer told him to pay tainted money to any person whosoever be present in the house where the accused Principal dwelled meaning thereby that the Investigating Officer has made his mind to implicate the accused principal falsely in the instant case. To add fuel to the fire, it has been the Investigation Officer at whose behest the tainted money was whisked out beneath the pillow as contented by prosecution witnesses which suggests that a pre-medicated design the accused has been involved in a row in the instant case. With these observations, the court said that the prosecution has utterly failed to connect the accused with the crime as such the accused is acquitted of the charges leveled against him. According to CBI case, a complaint was received by one Kaka Ram who was appointed as Primary Teacher on contract basis in KV Jindrah on December 8, 1998 wherein he has alleged that the then Principal, Ahluwalia wanted Rs 1,000 for the continuation of the complainant on contract basis. Kaka Ram had approached CBI Office Jammu and on the basis of the complaint, a trap was laid under the supervision of then DySP CBI/ABC, JP Singh, who was also the Investigating Officer of the case. It was alleged that the raiding party, in presence of the witnesses collected the bribed money beneath the pillow. A case was accordingly registered. The accused was, however, acquitted from the charges. |
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Custodial deaths of 3
villagers Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Justice YP Nargotra of the State High Court, in a written petition filed by three widows— Zeeba, W/o Abdul Rahim Guth, Jana, W/o Abdul Rahim Lone and Zulekha, W/o Bashir Ahmad of village Arm Daka, Banihal has directed Senior Superintendent of Police Ramban and SHO Police Station Banihal to expedite the investigation into the custodial deaths of their husbands , as alleged in the petition. While directing the investigating agency, Justice Nargotra observed that the counsel appearing for petitioner— Sheikh Shakeel Ahmad submitted that in connection with the custodial deaths, the FIR has been registered with Police Station Banihal, but despite the same, the investigations have not been carried out expeditiously. The court disposed of the petition with the direction to expedite the investigation . The petitioners had alleged that despite the identification of the accused, no steps have been taken by Police to arrest the accused. The husbands of the petitioners alongwith other villagers were taken to Army camp Tanka Top wherein 12 persons were released, but not the three deceased. It was alleged that on July 2002 the news spread in the area that three dead bodies were lying in Tanka Nallah near the Army Camp and the three dead bodies were almost disfigured with injuries of bullets and third degree torture. Thereafter, an FIR was registered with PS Banihal against the Army personnel of Two Jat Company, who had allegedly brutally tortured the husbands of the three petitioners to death. |
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Three link
roads inaugurated Exclesior Correspondent Jammu, Nov 17: Minister for R&B, Madan Lal Sharma has said that working class is the back bone of the Government and they have to play a vital role in implementation of the programmes and policies at the grass root level. Mr. Sharma was addressing a one-day convention of Indian Trade Union Congress (INTUC) at Akhnoor today. He said that the Government has launched a number of welfare schemes aimed at ameliorating the lot of people but it cannot be implemented unless field functionaries work sincerely and honestly. He said that working class is the basic instrument to help achieve desired results of developmental activities. The Minister sought the cooperation of the employees and advised them to be loyal towards their duty for which they are being paid. He stressed for maintaining punctuality in the offices so that needy persons do not suffer .He said that Government will safe guard their genuine interest but will not tolerate their negligence on their part at any cost. On the occasion Thakur Raghubir Singh, General Secretary INTUC presented a charter of demands which included compensation to the victims of Akhnoor militants attack, special allowances at par with the army personnel, special recruitment drive for Jammu youth, employment of wards of retiring employees, simultaneously extension of allowances/ concessions to the State Government employees as admissible to the central Government employees, regularization of services of the daily wagers, transfer of G.P.F account to Banks, payment of two and half day extra pay ,risk allowance/bonus to the State Government employees and grant of 4 percent DA to the State Government Employees including the Public Sector. Mr. Sharma assured the employees that their legitimate demands would be taken up at the appropriate forum and will be given due consideration. Earlier, the Minister inaugurated three link roads viz 2kms Sohal to Nud Devasthan constructed at a cost of Rs.43.57lakh,2.25 kms. road from Sohal to Badyala Chack via Nawa Khoo involving Rs, 26.10 lakh and Palma to Nai Basti 2 kms link road at a cost of Rs. 26.26 lakh. The link roads have been constructed by the R&B department under BADP. Mr. Shiv Kumar Sharma, S R. S. Reen, president and vice president INTUC, Thakur Kamal Singh and Ashok Mishra, Block president, and general secretary, JKPCC also spoke on the occasion. A large number of employees of MES, Northern Command, PHE, PDD, Forest and other departments attended the convention. |
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Bakaya for execution of schemes as per guidelines Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Seven hundred income generating units have been established in the State during last six months creating employment opportunities for 3000 youth under district industry scheme. These units have been set up through loan provided by banks operating in the two divisions of the State. Nearly, 400 more income generating units have also been set up by village artisans and craftsmen under centrally sponsored Rural Employment Generation Programme by the financial assistance of Rs 1.73 crore as margin money and Rs 5.62 crore as loan. This was disclosed during a high level half yearly review meetings here today. The Principal Secretary Planning and Development, Vijay Bakaya chaired. These meetings were attended by senior functionaries of Industries, Social Welfare, Planning departments besides heads of several corporations. These include Director Industries, Two Directors of Social Welfare Department besides Special Secretary Planning, S. Mahajan. While reviewing centrally sponsored rural employment generation programme launched by Khadi Village Industries Board, it was informed that efforts are on to set up 2310 income generating units by the end of this year. Similarly, the performance of social welfare department in the twin divisions of the State was also reviewed and it was stated that over Rs 12 crore are being spent on the nutritional & health status of children aimed at to reduce mortality and mal-nutrition deficiency. Four more hostels for the children of economically poor sections are also coming up in the State during the current financial year for which the central Government has released Rs one crore. The Financial Commissioner asked the officers to maintain fiscal discipline and formulate need based development plans which shall have impact on the ground and benefit larger number of people. He also stressed for execution of works as per the specifications and guidelines. |
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Mufti’s healing touch suits to militants only: RPD Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: State president of Rashtriya Parivartan Dal (RPD) Sayed Mohd Ayub has alleged that 14-year old militancy in the Jammu and Kashmir was basically the creation of local leaders. Addressing a press conference here today he said these self-centred Valley leaders under the garb of militancy looted the Government exchequer and never thought seriously about the welfare of the people and development of the State. A large number of people are still living below poverty line and they are deprived of their legitimate rights with freedom. Launching a scathing attack on the Mufti Government, the RPD leader said that healing touch policy of the Mufti Sayeed was basically for the militants. His policy is promoting and encouraging militancy in the state. It is also going to create lawlessness in the state. Those who really deserve for the healing touch have been ignored. The criteria fixed for this ‘touch’ again suits to the militants and their families. He further pointed out that Railway Minister Nitish Kumar and the Chief Minister Mufti Sayeed had assured the youth of Valley that interviews for the post of IV Class will be conducted soon but it unfortunate that interviews of the Valley candidates were also took place in Jammu on Sunday and a large number of Valley candidate could not appear. The RPD leader alleged that Mufti was befooling the innocent people of Kashmir and he was not serious in his Party’s agenda of elections. Mr Rupinder Singh Jammu District president and Mr Rajinder Mehra- general secretary also spoke on the occasion. |
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MVD to go hi-tech Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU Nov 17: To bring greater transparency and ensure quick disposal of cases, the Motor Vehicles Department will be fully computerized by April next. In the first phase, the offices of Transport Commissioner, Regional Transport Officers in Srinagar and Jammu and Assistant Regional Transport Officer at Kathua would have this facility which would later be extended to other offices in a phased manner. The first phase would cost Rs. 57 lakh. This was decided at a high level meeting held here today under the chairmanship of Deputy Chief Minister Mangat Ram Sharma. The demonstration of blue print prepared by National Informatics Centre was made by Mr. Abhay Kumar at the meeting. With the provision of computerization facility, the revenue of the department would increase considerably. It would also facilitate the transporter operators to get tax reports at any given time and help them to verify if the vehicles were not used in any theft case. It would provide data about traffic violators, analyze it and help in quick implementation of Government policies especially on tax structure. The meeting was informed that in view of huge increase in the number of vehicles in the State, the workload of the department has gone up considerably. Against 1.10 lakh vehicles registered in 1989, the number has gone up to 3.98 lakh at present. Similarly, the revenue of the department has recorded an increase of 416 per cent since 1989 touching a new high of Rs. 33 crore last year against Rs. 6.39 core in 1989. It was also revealed that MVD would have internet connectivity for better monitoring, management and quick decision making. It would also provide smart cards to the vehicle owners giving detailed information about the model, date of purchase, registration, renewal and other details Transport Commissioner A. C. Chaturvedi was among others present at the meeting. |
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New office bearers of DGPC Udhampur elected Excelsior Correspondent UDHAMPUR, Nov 17: A meeting of the District Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee Udhampur was held here under the chairmanship of S Amar Singh, in which the seven newly elected DGPC members were present. The members elected the office bearers unanimously. S Amar Singh was elected as president, S Ranjit Singh as vice president, S Charanjit Singh as general secretary, S Surjit Singh as cashier, S Manmohan Singh as joint secretary and S Janak Singh and Sub Rangil Singh as members. After their election the office bearers met the Deputy Commissioner for oath and presented a list of new DGPC members. The DC Udhampur approved and constituted the new body. Participants in the meeting expressed their full faith on Mahant Manjit Ji of Shiromani Dera Nangali Sahib Poonch and thanked Mahant Sahib for bringing unity and consensus among Sikh community in Udhampur district. All the eleven members of DGPC Udhampur resolved to strive unitedly for betterment of Sikh community and work for poor, orphan, widows and other needy people and would put to use the Gurdwara funds for the welfare of those people. |
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Mahant Heeranand Saraswati of Ranberishwar Temple dies Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Head priest of Shri Ranberishwar Temple, Shalamar, Mahant Heeranand Saraswatiji died this evening after a pro-long illness. Cremation of Mahant Heeranand Saraswati will be held at village Bani Chourata, Jajjar Kotli at 2 pm on Tuesday November 18, 2003. Funeral procession will start from Shri Ranberishwar Temple at 12 noon and will proceed for village Bani Choutra. 76 year old, Mahant Heeranand Saraswatiji was ailing for the last five months. He breathed his last this evening at about 6 pm. Belongs to the Niranjali Akhara of Haridwara, Mahant Heeranand Saraswatiji was serving as head priest of Shri Ranberishwar Temple for last 12 years. Large number of devotees rushed to Shri Ranberishwar Temple after listening the news of death of Mahant Heeranand Saraswatiji. |
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Monika, Rohit,Priyansho,
Sangeet adjudged best speakers Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Nov 17: Monika Arora, Rohit Singh bagged first and second positions in inter-school debating contest at Government Women College Parade, while the third prize was jointly shared by Priyansho and Sangeet Sandhu today. The contest was organized by the Cooperative Department as part of ongoing celebration of cooperative week in Jammu and Kashmir. The topic of the debate was "Cooperative have played a vital role in the development of J&K State". In all ten speakers from various schools participated and put forth their assertions favouring and disfavouring of cooperative movement. Registrar, Cooperative Societies, Dr G. N. Qasba was the chief guest while as Principal of the College; Mrs. Vijay Laxmi was the guest of honour. Joint Registrar Cooperatives, Jammu, Mr Anal Gupta was also present. Speaking on the occasion Dr Qasba disclosed that presently cooperatives are running over Rs. 1,000 crore business in the State. He said that the State has 7.5lakh membership. He said that State Cooperative Bank, Jammu Central Cooperative Bank, Land Development Bank, Citizen Cooperative Bank and Devika Urban Cooperative Bank are functioning are major players in cooperative sector in Jammu division. He said that the State has 765 credit societies. He said that cooperative’s has to be strengthened for speedy economic development. He highlighted the achievement of the cooperative sector and added that it has its relevance in the socio-economic transformation. He exhorted youth to come forward and emulate the principles of cooperation in their daily life. He appreciated efforts of the department in putting renewed efforts to revive the Cooperative movement in the State. Dr Qasba apprised the students about the new lines of activities being introduced in the cooperative sector. DGP inaugurates pedestrian awareness campaign Excelsior Correspondent Jammu, Nov 17: A one-day pedestrian safety awareness campaign was launched by J&K Civil Defence at five important places in Jammu city today. The campaign was inaugurated at Indira Chowk by Director General of Police, Gopal Sharma who is also the Director of Civil Defence. This was attended by about 200 school children who had made colorful paintings. The paintings showed how safety measures such as cautiously boarding the buses, helping school children in crossing roads, making good use of foot paths could make the common man safe on roads. The DGP appreciated that role of students and Civil Defence Wardens. The campaign was attended among others by P. S. Gill, ADGP HG/CD & Aux. Police, Shaikh Owais, DIG Civil Defence Jammu and Shakeel Beig, SSP HG/CD Senior Wardens including Mr. Jugal Mahajan, Harnam Singh, Vinod Malhotra, Paramjit Kunar, Shashi Kohli and Dinesh Gupta also enthusiastically participated in the programme. Other places where similar camps were held included Kachi Chawni Chowk, Shahidi Chowk, Mahesh Pura Crossing, Amphalla Chowk, Satwari Chowk and Bikram Chowk where 100 children of each camp actively participated and apprised people about safety. Kashmir Valley Finance Co MD challaned in fraud case Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Crime Branch Jammu has challaned Managing Director of Kashmir Valley Finance and Investment Company-Bashir Ahmed and his brother Mohd Iqbal Mir of Yaripora, Kulgam in the court of CJM Jammu for their involvement in fraud case. The Crime Branch has booked the accused MD and the director of the Company in case FIR 6/ 2002 under section 420, 467, 468, 471, 120-B RPC on the complaints of Ms Zarifa Parveen, wife of Ghulam Nabi Shah of Gujjar Nagar and Bharat Bhushan of Vivek Vihar Jammu. The complainants alleged that they had deposited their hard earned money in the above mentioned non-banking finance company with the promise by the MD-Bashir Ahmed that 24 % interest PA will be paid on their deposited amount. On the date of maturity when the complainant went to encash their FDRs the owner of the said company and other directors had gone with the deposited money. They could not be traced for months together. During the course of investigation by the Crime Branch, one of the accused partner/ director, Manzoor Ahmed Shah was arrested and it was proved that owner of the said company had opened various branches in the entire state for enhancing fraudulent business. From the records and investigation it was found that company had duped innocent public to the tune of around Rs 50 lakhs. The court has been requested to initiate proceedings against Bashir and his brother under section 512 RPC. Interview of the Week By Dinesh Manhotra He has reasons to make tall claims as not only he himself braved strong anti-National Conference wave in the Assembly but also revitalized the party which was virtually ‘wiped out’ in this region in general and Jammu district in particular. All credit goes to him for organising a historic rally in the City of Temples as after becoming provincial party of National Conference Ajay Sadhotra has been working assiduously to revive the party by strengthening the organisation at grass root level. Whatsoever may be the ramifications of NC’s rally on the political scenario but one thing is very much clear that this show of strength has proved a moral booster for the party all over the State. Provincial president of National Conference, Ajay Sadhotra started his political career as an activist of National Youth Front and joined National Conference in 1976. He served as general secretary of the Youth National Conference when Mohammed Shafi Uri was president. Mr Sadhotra unsuccessfully contested Municipality elections in 1980 from ward number 1 and Assembly election in 1983 from Jammu-East constituency. Since 1976, he was working with dedication and sincerity, it was guidance of late Bashir Ahmed Kitchloo which changed Sadhotra’s political life. "I have no hesitation to admit that under the guidance of Kitchloo Sahib I have learnt so much", admits Sadhotra during his conversations with EXCELSIOR for Interview of the Week . For Ajay Sadhotra, B A Kitchloo was a mentor who gave new shape to his political life. From 1990 to 1996 was crucial period of Sadhotra’s time as at that time he under the guidance of B A Kitchloo not only made the party alive but also solved problems of the masses during Governor rule by highlighting their problems on appropriate platforms. In 1996 Ajay Sadhotra was asked the party highcommand to contest elections from Marh constituency. Without any hesitation he accepted party highcommand directions, contested and won the seat. But his biggest achievement was his victory in 2002 Assembly elections. There was strong anti-National Conference wave in last Assembly but he sailed through that wave and retain his Marh seat. Excerpts of this conversations are: *Your party has organised a mammoth rally some days back. What will be the impact of that rally on the political situation of the State? The historical rally was people’s anger against policies of the coalition Government. Thousands of people attended that rally to express their anguish over anti-masses politics being propagated by ruling dispensation. It is political pundits to analyze about impact of that rally on political situation of the State but one thing is clear that people are fed up with policies of this Government. * In your opinion what are the reasons of people’s disillusionment with the policies of coalition Government in just one year ? Actually, except lip service this regime has done nothing for the upliftment of the people. Except witch-hunting and NC bashing coalition Government headed by Mufti Moh-ammad Sayeed has no concrete policies for the people of this State. Every sections of the society is annoyed with the State Government. On one hand miseries of the farmers have been increased manifold, while on the other hand their is no solution to the woes of unemployed youth. It is a glaring example of humiliation that highly qualified unemployed youth have been given appointment on contract basis that too on meager amount of Rs 1500. Coalition partners too have ditched people of Jammu region. People of this region voted Congress and Panthers as these outfits promised to provide justice to Jammu region. Except dancing to the tunes of Mufti Mohammed Sayeed, neither Congress nor Panthers take any steps to mitigate woes of Jammuites. Congress and Panthers promised to implement Wazir Commission Report and constitution of Delimitation Commission but what happened to these promises ? People feel cheated. * In your opinion this regime is failed on all fronts ? Is there any doubt about that. In span of just one year this dispensation has exposed before the masses and there is feeling among people that previous NC Government was much better than this ruling coalition as Mufti led Government is non-serious towards problems of people. * Your party is now taking the cause of Jammu. Does it mean that Jammu has been discriminated ? We are not taking Jammu’s cause first. Even when we were in Government we provided justice to each and every part of the State. Whatsoever part of the State will be discriminated NC will fight for that region. This Government has meted out step-motherly treatment with Jammu region and being a provincial president of Jammu province of NC it is my duty to highlight these discrimination. This Government has adopted apathetic attitude towards border migrants of Jammu region besides neglecting tourism and industry of Jammu. Transport of Jammu is also neglected. * It is widely believed that NC is finding it difficult to play the role of effective opposition. Is it a reality ? No. We are in the politics to serve the people. No matter we are in Government or in opposition. There is no question of finding it difficult to play the role of opposition. We had effectively played the role of opposition and stoutly opposed anti-people policies of the then State Government 1984 to 1986. Not only we played role of opposition but also wore brunt of the atrocities of the then State Government. |
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