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| PM begins visit by paying obeisance at Hazratbal Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Nov 17: Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh today began his two-day visit of Jammu and Kashmir by paying obeisance at the famous shrine of Hazratbal. Immediately after his arrival in Srinagar.......more HC
adjourns hearing Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: The State High Court today adjourned the case till tomorrow for hearing a Public Interest Litigation ( PIL) seeking CBI probe in the alleged sex-racket in which a victim was dragged into ‘flesh trade’, even when she was a minor.........more 3 killed,
9 injured Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Three persons were killed and nine others received injuries in separate accidents while as two persons allegedly consumed poisonous substances at their respective residences........more Mufti
calls on PM, Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar Nov 17: Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed called on the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh this evening at Raj Bahavan. The meeting lasted for 15 minutes during which the overall security scenario in the State was discussed.......more Role of
public health Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: A workshop was organised in the Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College Jammu in which about 40 public health specialists from the Department of Health and Medical Education participated........more |
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EJAC gears
up Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: The Central Committee members along with district committee members of Rajouri, Poonch and Doda of the J&K Government Employees Joint Action Committee (EJAC) has launched intensive campaign................more SFC takes
over Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: As a sequel to intensify the recovery of loans from the borrowers, the J&K State Financial Corporation (SFC), Jammu resorted to take over the mortgaged properties. SFC has in exercise of power vested under Section 29 of SFCs Act of 1951 taken over the possession of mortgaged properties of four borrowing concerns namely Durga Paper and Straw Board, Gangyal, Jammu, Panan India Private Limited, Gangyal, Naya Kashmir Oil Mills, Bari Brahamana, Pragati Printing Press, Maheshi Gate................more Sikh Unity
Forum urges Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Expressing grave concern over, what they called, indifferent attitude of successive State Governments towards Sikh community, the All J&K Sikhs Unity Forum........more "Marnoprant",
"Girgit" Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: The sixth day of Natrang Theatre Festival-2004 witnessed highly memorable acting by Arvind Anand and Neeraj Kant in the Surendra Verma’s play "Marnoprant" directed.....more |
PM begins visit by paying obeisance at Hazratbal Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar, Nov 17: Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh today began his two-day visit of Jammu and Kashmir by paying obeisance at the famous shrine of Hazratbal. Immediately after his arrival in Srinagar, Dr. Singh visited the 17th century shrine where the holy relic of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) is housed. The Hazratbal shrine is the most venerated religious place in Jammu and Kashmir. The presence of the holy relic of Prophet Muhammad (SAW) makes it the highly revered center for Muslims of the State and elsewhere. The holy relic had arrived in Kashmir during the reign of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb and the present exquisite white marble shrine complex was constructed in 1978. The Prime Minister was accompanied by Mrs. Manmohan Singh, Governor, Lt. Gen (Retd) S. K. Sinha, Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed and Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Urban Development, Ghulam Nabi Azad. As the Prime Minister alighted from his car, the officials of the J&K Muslim Wakaf Board, looking after the management of the Board, warmly received him. The Nishendeh of the holy relic, Ghulam Hassan Bandey led Dr. Singh inside the shrine and briefed him about the history of the holy relic in Kashmir. On this occasion, special prayers were held for the return of peace in Jammu and Kashmir. The Prime Minister and Mrs. Manmohan Singh were presented Kashmiri shawls. Earlier, on his arrival at Srinagar Airport. the Prime Minister was accorded a hearty welcome. He was received by the Government, Lt. Gen. (Retd) S. K. Sinha, Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, Deputy Chief Minister, Mangat Ram Sharma and several cabinet ministers. |
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HC
adjourns hearing on PIL seeking CBI Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: The State High Court today adjourned the case till tomorrow for hearing a Public Interest Litigation ( PIL) seeking CBI probe in the alleged sex-racket in which a victim was dragged into ‘flesh trade’, even when she was a minor. The PIL came up for hearing before the Division bench comprising Chief Justice SN Jha and justice SK Gupta in a jam-packed court room today, as number of lawyers of Jammu Bar advocated the cause of PIL seeking CBI probe as prayed in the petition by a social activist and Shiv Sena (Bal Thackery) leader Amit Chouhan through Advocate Sheikh Shakeel Ahmad. In the PIL it has been submitted that Police was not investigating the matter properly as the victim was taken into custody on October 23, 2004 by Jammu Police and remained under illegal confinement till November 3, 2004 when an FIR number 25/2004 was registered by Police Station Women Cell Canal Road Jammu as shown the arrest of the victim on November 3, 2004. It was further submitted that there was involvement of big wigs including bureaucrats and politicians and even involvement of local Police cannot be ruled out. It was prayed that in order to ensure fairness and transparency in the investigation and to restore people’s confidence, the investigation of the case is required to be transferred to CBI for a thorough probe. The Court after hearing Advocate SS Ahmad and Additional Advocate General (AAG) Anil Sethi appearing for the State, adjourned the hearing in the case till tomorrow. |
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3 killed, 9 injured in mishaps Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Three persons were killed and nine others received injuries in separate accidents while as two persons allegedly consumed poisonous substances at their respective residences. Police spokesman said that one Ghulam Mohd Khanday, son of Noor Mohd of Lohadar Chatroo in Kishtwar tehsil was killed after he fell down from a moving mini-bus near Kurta Pul. He was immediately rushed to hospital where he was declared brought dead. In another accident, an unidentified person was knocked to death by unidentified vehicle at Satwari. Police has taken the cognizance of the incident. In yet another accident, a motor mechanic Bhopinder Singh was run over by a bus number JK02J-2785 while repairing it at Trikuta Nagar. Police has taken the cognizance of the incident. Nine persons were injured in separate road accidents at Samba, Domana, Chak Tara, Trikuta Nagar, Bakshi Nagar, B C Road and Rehari. All have been hospitalised and their condition was stated to be out of danger when reports last came in. They have been identified as Mohan Lal and Ashok Kumar, sons of Krishna Lal of Shiv Nagar, Udhampur, Naresh Mehra, son of Ram Lal of Nanak Nagar, Munshi Ram, son of Raseela Ram of Bishnah, Sanjay Kumar, son of Rattan Lal Sharma of Mehra Manderian Akhnoor, Savita, daughter of Budha of Talab Tillo, Raj Gopal, son of Dev Raj of Maheshpura, Vijay Kumar, son of Mansa Ram of Ram Nagar and Amit Gupta, son of Gulshan Gupta of Lakker Mandi. Meanwhile, two persons—Vandna Devi, daughter of Bansi Lal of Badyal Brahamana and Vikram, son of Chaman Lal of Birpur allegedly consumed poisonous substances at their respective residences. They were rushed to Government Medical College Hospital when spotted unconscious by family members. Doctors immediately provided them stomach wash treatment followed by other medicare. Their condition was stated to be out of danger when reports last came in. It could not be ascertained as to whether they intentionally consumed poison or swallowed the same mistakenly. |
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Mufti calls on PM, hosts dinner Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar Nov 17: Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed called on the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh this evening at Raj Bahavan. The meeting lasted for 15 minutes during which the overall security scenario in the State was discussed. Later, the Chief Minister hosted a dinner in honour of the Prime Minister. Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Urban Development Ghulam Nabi Azad, Minister of State in Prime Minister’s office Prathvi Raj Chuhan, senior Congress leader Ms. Ambika Soni, Ministers, legislators and senior civil and army officers attended the dinner. |
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Role of public health specialists discussed Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: A workshop was organised in the Department of Community Medicine, Government Medical College Jammu in which about 40 public health specialists from the Department of Health and Medical Education participated. During the workshop, the role of public health specialists in health care delivery system was discussed. Certain recommendations were also made in the light of more scope in strengthening the health management and administration in the delivery system. "Nodoubt the State has made progress in the field of health delivery in the past few decades yet due to lack of expertise or improper utilisation of the public health specialists the optimum levels have yet to be achieved", the members said and added that the public health challenges and the situation has become more complex over the years and the preparedness of the State to meet these challenges seems to be inadequate. It was stressed that a separate cadre of public health specialists should be created. The workshop was held as a follow-up to the resolution passed in the VIIIth Conference of IAPSM (North Zone Chapter) held at Ludhiana. A core group has also been formed which will apprise the Government for creation of a separate cadre of public health specialists in the interest of improvement in health care delivery system and to maximise the health benefits to the public. |
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EJAC gears up for Nov 24, 25 strike Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: The Central Committee members along with district committee members of Rajouri, Poonch and Doda of the J&K Government Employees Joint Action Committee (EJAC) has launched intensive campaign to gear up the two days State wide token strike in shape of Kaam-Chhodo Hartal on November 24 and 25, 2004. In Jammu city, Central Committee members Ram Kumar, Balwan Singh, Purshotam Singh Chib, Girdhari Lal Chand, Parlat Singh Chib, Kavi Raj, Arun Moza, Ravi Singh, Marks Gill, Darshan Mangotra, Jasbir Singh Charak, Lal Chand Sharma, Sham Lal visited various office complex and asked the employees to make strike a success. Employees came out of their offices/complexes and assembled in their lawns. EJAC leaders addressed the employees and explained the reasons for giving Kaam Chhodo Hartal call. Employees leaders said that it was all due to the arrogant and indifferent attitude of the State Government that they will left with no option but to launch an agitation. In Rajouri and Poonch, the Central Committee members Mohammed Gafoor Dar along with other members addressed the employees and asked to be prepared for decisive struggle because the State Government has become a silent spectator about the demands of the employees and heading for unnecessary confrontation with its employees. A meeting of the EJAC was held at Jammu to discuss the visit of Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh. Employees urged the Prime Minister to immediately constitute 6th national pay commission to neutralise the cascading of price hike of essential commodities. |
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SFC takes over mortgaged properties Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: As a sequel to intensify the recovery of loans from the borrowers, the J&K State Financial Corporation (SFC), Jammu resorted to take over the mortgaged properties. SFC has in exercise of power vested under Section 29 of SFCs Act of 1951 taken over the possession of mortgaged properties of four borrowing concerns namely Durga Paper and Straw Board, Gangyal, Jammu, Panan India Private Limited, Gangyal, Naya Kashmir Oil Mills, Bari Brahamana, Pragati Printing Press, Maheshi Gate. These borrowing concerns were given ample opportunities through various reminders, persistent requests including notices under Section 29 of SFCs Act and personal visits of recovery teams but the promoters/concerns ignored all the requests/notices and did not square up the default/loan, compelling the SFC to invoke provision of SFCs Act. In a handout issued here today, SFC informed the general public not to enter into any deal with the above concerns in respect of these mortgaged properties as these are subject to charge of the Corporation. Further the SFC has accomplished the job of identifying the address of the transporter borrowers and guarantors in the most of the transport cases, who are evading recovery proceedings against them by plying their vehicles outside the State. SFC is contemplating of initiating stringent action against them including legal proceedings. |
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Sikh Unity Forum urges PM to solve their problems Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Expressing grave concern over, what they called, indifferent attitude of successive State Governments towards Sikh community, the All J&K Sikhs Unity Forum has appealed to the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh to solve long pending problems of the community. Addressing a press conference, convenor of the Forum, Rajinder Singh listed ten demands of the Sikh community and urged the Prime Minister to accept these demands. He demanded that adequate compensation to be given to the displaced people of 1947 besides Rs 25000 as cash compensation to all refugee families. Pointing towards employment scenario in the State, Mr Singh said the community was not given due representation in employment. He demanded 2 percent reservations for Sikhs in Government jobs. He further demanded that Punjabi language should be regularised and it should be implemented at school level. Mr Singh also demanded that representation should be given to the community in judiciary and some community member should be appointed as judges of the High Court. Highlighting miseries of some weaker sections among Sikhs, Mr Singh demanded that Other Backward Classes (OBCs) status should be given to the Lubana community. He further demanded that displaced Sikhs from Kashmir valley should be treated at par with displaced Kashmiri Pandits. Forum leaders highlighted problems being faced by the people who have been living in some refugee camps. He demanded a comprehensive package for the development of refugee Bastis like Gole Gujral camp, Simbal Camp, Bhour Camp and other areas. He also demanded implementation of the Report of the Ansari Commission and regretted that victims of the riots were not given justice till date. |
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"Marnoprant",
"Girgit" staged on 6th day Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: The sixth day of Natrang Theatre Festival-2004 witnessed highly memorable acting by Arvind Anand and Neeraj Kant in the Surendra Verma’s play "Marnoprant" directed by Balwant Thakur. "Marnoprant" is a strong comment on the man-woman relations. The play revolves around a triangular love story. The playwright unfolds the whole episode after the death of a young lady whose husband and the lover meet for the first time. The dramatic action becomes more interesting when it is shown that the husband comes to know about the relation after the death of his wife. The playwright has exposed inner conflicts through a highly experimental and intellectual thematic design. The most noteworthy aspect of the play was its acting by two senior actors of Jammu stage—Arvind Anand and Neeraj Kant. The music of the play was designed by Suraj Singh and the sound effects were arranged by Mohit Sharma. The lights were designed by Sanjeev Gupta and efficiently executed by Rahul Chadda. The sets were designed by Suresh Kumar and executed by Deepak Virdhi and Kamaljeet Kaur. Today’s second performance was "Girgit", the play based on Anton Chekhov’s short story. The play revolves around a police officer, who changes colours like a chameleon. Cast of the play include Dimple Sharma, Deepak Virdhi, Rahul Chanda, Pawan Verma, Kanaiya Sharma, Gaurav, Prashant, Sunil, Ruhi Singh and Mohit Sharma. Music of the play was composed by Suraj Singh. The play "Damad" will be staged on the 7th day of Natrang Theatre Festival-2004 at Natrang Studio Theatre tomorrow. |
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CPM, PDF leaders meet PM, demand packages Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Nov 17: A delegation of CPI (M) and PDF comprising M Y Tarigami, Hakeem Mohd Yasin, Usman Majid, M Khalil Naik and others met the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at Rajbhawan here today and congratulated him for bold decision of reduction of troops in the State. The delegation among other things suggested that identifying some peace zones within the State and subsequently demilitarizing them would be a step forward in the right direction that would eventually create an atmosphere conducive for further forward movement. It was suggested that a meaningful dialogue with the representatives of political parties in the State Assembly over the solution on autonomy to the State adopted by Legislative Assembly in the year 2000 should be facilitated to rectify the wrong done by the previous BJP-led NDA Government which summarily rejected the resolution. It was also suggested by these Valley leaders that to review the cases of all the detenues not involved in heinous crimes and facilitate their immediate release. They urged upon the PM that youth of Kashmir who had gone other side of the LoC and now want to live a peaceful life, their return should be facilitated thereby allowing them to live peacefully. Mr Tarigami further said that people from both the sides should be allowed to have exchange of trade viz-a-viz fruits, art and craft. Transport links between Srinagar-Muzaffrabad should be re-established.He also demanded employment package for prime victims of militancy and funds for revival of shattered economy in the State. |
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President’s
intervention sought for release Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Demanding immediate release of Kanchi Shankracharya and withdrawal of case against him, a number of saints accompanying activists of some Hindu organisation, took out a protest demonstration in the city of temples, here today. Led by Sadhu Dharam Sthan Surakshini Samiti Jammu and Vishwa Hindu Parishad, the protest rally passed through different bazars of the city and culminated at Mubarak Mandi where a memorandum, addressed to President of India, was submitted to Divisional Commissioner Jammu. In the memorandum, saints and Hindu organisations have sought personal intervention of the President A P J Abdul Kalam for his direction to Tamil Nadhu Government for immediate and unconditional release of the Shankracharya. The protest rally, comprising more than two hundred Sadhus and some activists of Vishwa Hindu Parishad, Bajrang Dal, Sanatan Dharam Sabha and several sister organisations of RSS, commenced from the Ranbireshwar temple. Shouting slogans like ‘Sadhu Santo Ka Apmaan, Nahin Sahega Hindustan (Indian will not tolerate insult of saints) and ‘Shankracharyaji Ko Riha Karo’ (release Shankracharyaji), the protesting saints passed through City Chowk, Purani Mandi, Jain Bazar and reached Mubarak Mandi in front of Divisional Commissioner’s officer where a demonstration was held. While addressing the demonstration, VHP State president, Rama Kant Dubey alleged that arrest of the Shankracharya after falsely implicating him in a murder case, was nothing but a political and religious vendetta. Mahant Ramjanamdass Shastri, secretary of Sadhu Dharam Sthan Surakshini Smiti and some other saints, also addressed the protesters and threatened a vigorous Hindu movement against the Government if Kanchi Shankracharya is not released immediately. They also appealed President A P J Abdul Kalam to use his highest office and direct the Tamil Nadhu Government to immediately release the pontiff. The protesting saints dispersed off peacefully after submitting a memorandum to Divisional Commissioner Jammu |
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Gursharan Kaur visits Pari Mahal, Cheshmashahi Excelsior Correspondent Srinagar Nov 17: Mrs. Gursharan Kaur, wife of Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, who is accompanying her husband on the two day visit to the State today visited Pari Mahal and Cheshmashai. She was accompanied by Begum Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. Mrs. Kaur took keen interest in the scenic beauty of these places. |
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Political parties, organisations
welcome PM in Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Pinning some hopes with the visit, different political parties and organisations have extended warm welcome to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on his maiden visit to trouble torn Jammu and Kashmir State. In a statement, PDP State secretary Ashiq Hussain Khan has said that people of J&K have many expectation from the ongoing peace process between India and Pakistan and Prime Minister’s maiden visit to the State would pave way for normalisation of situation in the State. Welcoming Dr Manmohan Singh in the State, Jammu and Kashmir Pahari Cultural and Welfare Forum has reiterated its long pending demand for conferring the ST status to Pahari speaking people of the State. Urging the Prime Minister to concede the demand, the Forum also demanded that taking into account the miserable condition of Pahari speaking people, a special package should be announced for the Paharis so that they can compete with others. A meeting of All India Sikh Students Federation, J&K, was held under the chairmanship of Paramjeet Singh wherein Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s visit to the State was welcomed with a hope that it would strengthen the initiative for a peaceful solution of Kashmir problem. Cautioning PM not to be carried away by the shrewed moved of the communally and regionally biased leadership of Kashmir, the AISSF demanded a package for PoK refugees. Welcoming Manmohan Singh in Jammu and Kashmir, All Communities Unity Forum J&K Jammu, has also advised the PM to move with utmost cautions in certain matters and not see Kashmir problem and situation in the State through eyes of those who represent only 10 per cent of the population. The Forum appealed Manmohan Singh to defer opening of Uri-Muzafarabad road till the Evacuees Property Act is there as this would uproot thousands of families settled on evacuees properties. All Jammu and Kashmir State Akali Dal has welcomed Dr Manmohan Singh with expectation that the visiting Prime Minister would consider the demands like minority status to minorities in J&K, employment package for J&K youth and rehabilitation of PoK refugees. National Union of Backward Classes, SCs, STs and Minorities has appealed Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to announce a special package for unemployed youth of the State during his visit here. Extending whole hearted solidarity with Dr Manmohan Singh in his efforts to bring peace in Jammu and Kashmir State, Shri Guru Ravi Dass Satsang Society Jammu has welcomed Prime Minister in the State. The Society also appealed PM to look into the grievances of SC, ST and OBC community people of the State. All Jammu and Kashmir Sikh Awareness Society, in a meeting held under the chairmanship of Yashpal Singh, passed a resolution welcoming Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh in the State and put forth some demands for his consideration. The demands included declaration of public holiday on Parkash Utsav of Guru Granth Sahib, release of innocent Sikhs imprisoned in jails, appointment of a Sikh judge on the bench of J&K High Court and important postings to Sikh officers in J&K Police. Bhai Kanahiya Jee Nishkam Seva Society has also appealed Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to announce an employment package during his visit to the State and consider the demands such as settlement of 1947 refugees, release of innocent Sikh youths from jails, reservation for Sikhs and CBI probe into the killings of Chattisinghpura and Majoor Nagar in Kashmir. Displaced Welfare Forum Purkhoo camp while hailing the visit of Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh in the trouble-torn state has described it a good step forward for the settlement of Kashmir problem. The Forum chief Kuldip Irkumoo and his general secretary, M L Raina have expressed the hope that the visit will prove fruitful in permanent rehabilitation of the displaced Pandits in Kashmir Valley. The duo have also strongly advocated for political and economic package for the exiled community besides the employment of the youth and increase in cash assistance. |
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Govt to resolve border migrants’ problems: Speaker Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Speaker State Legislative Assembly Tara Chand has said that Government was serious in resolving the problems of border migrants. Addressing public rallies in Pargwal areas of Chhamb constituency today, the Speaker assured the people that a comprehensive relief package is expected from Prime Minister, Manmohan Singh who is on visits to J&K State. He apprised the gathering during rallies at Hamirpur, Pindi, Fagwari, Rajpora, Zamana, Kona and Gujral that a lot of spade work has already been done and ther Central Government has been convinced about the genuine problems of the border migrants who were uprooted due to Pak shelling during Kargil war. He said that stress has been laid for providing permanent shelters at safer places for the people residing closer to zero line during emergency. The Speakers said that several high level teams have already visited these areas and have studied the situation. Moreover, survey has also been conducted in this regard by the concerned authorities. He said that instructions have already been issued by him to the Revenue authorities to expedite the payment on account of arranging tractorization , seeds and fertilizers etc to the affected people so that the normal activity for Rabi crop can be undertaken. |
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Rotary Club sets up ENT Institute Excelsior Correspondent UDHAMPUR, Nov 17: Rotary Club Udhampur has achieved another milestone in serving the weaker sections of the society by way of establishing Rotary ENT institute to the community at district headquarters. This institute was dedicated to the general public by the chief guest Director Rotary International Sushil Gupta in presence of District Governor Dr Veena Misra and Balwant Singh, MLA here today. The ENT Institute has been completed at a cost of Rs 45 lakhs. Rotary districts 2690, 2770, 2710 Japan and Rotary International Districts 3070, 3140, 3110 and 3290 India and Rotary Foundation of Rotary International have jointly contributed Rs 23.52 lakh for purchase of equipment. MLA Udhampur, Mr Mankotia who was the guest on honour on the occasion appreciated the work done by Rotary Club Udhampur. He also announced some assistance on the occasion. Mr Gupta extended thanks to the MLA for helping Rotary Club. Mr Gupta claimed to arrange an amount of Rs 40 lakhs for purchase of Ophthalmic equipment for the Eye Hospital. Distt Governor assured Udhampur Club to provide maximum help for carrying contennial cataract surgery project of Rotary Club Udhampur. Puran Lal Sharma, president Rotary Club Udhampur also spoke on the occasion. He also welcomed the guests arrived from Punjab and Himachal for the function. Several other members of the Club were also present on the occasion. |
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Panthers Party unhappy with Mufti Government Excelsior Correspondent SRINAGAR, Nov 17: Panther Party (PP) today accused the Mufti Mohammad Sayeed Government of "failure" to implement the Common Minimum Programme (CMP). A spokesman of the PP said a delegation headed by chairman Prof Bhim Singh presented a memorandum listing ten demands to Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh here today. It said the Wazir Commission recommendation to open three new districts in Jammu region and one in Kashmir, have not been considered even in two years. A proposal for appointment of a delimitation commission which is mandatory under the State constitution has also been rejected by the Government. While the Jammu region has 37 seats, Kashmir has 46. This political discrimination will be disastrous for the unity of the State, it said. Migrants from the border areas, Rajouri, Poonch and Doda are literally starving and have not been paid any financial assistance in spite of the Supreme Court’s direction, it said adding that the party had prepared a project for rehabilitation of people from these place including Udhampur but even that has not been considered by the Government. The PP which is a partner in the Coalition Government has to fight for justice in the courts and on the streets to seek implementation of the CMP, it alleged. The senior office bearers of the PP in the militancy affected areas have been deprived of the security cover. This has affected the movement and mobility of the PP in Jammu and as well in Doda, Poonch, Rajouri and in entire Kashmir region. This is done to curb the political movement of the party by the Congress and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), it further said. It also said over 4,00,000 persons from PoK are still migrants and their cases need to be settled comprehensively according to the national and international laws while Pakistan refugees who came in 1947 to Jammu are still without any civil or political rights in Jammu and Kashmir. The High Court has half a dozen vacancies that could be filled up by giving reasonable represention to the minorities in Jammu region, particularly the Muslims, it said adding the Scheduled Tribes should be granted reservation according to 2001 census report. The PP, however, expressed its gratitude for constituting the Gujjar Regiment in the paramilitary force. JPVM alleges discrimination,
seeks Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: Jammu Paryatan Vikas Mandal (JPVM), an apex body of 22 organisations of Jammu region connected with the tourism, trade and pilgrimage extending warm welcome to Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh to Jammu has demanded a special economic package for promotion of tourism and pilgrimage to Mata Vaishnodevi and Shri Amarnathji. Addressing a press conference here today general secretary of the organisation, Inderjit Khajuria said that like Kashmir, Jammu too has vast tourism potential but it is unfortunate that Kashmiri dominated leadership always ignored tourism promotion in Jammu division. There was no equal distribution of funds. Over sixty lakhs pilgrims are visiting Mata Vaishnodevi every year but no much attention has been given for pilgrimage promotion by the Centre or the State Government. It is failure on the part of State Government that such a vast flow of pilgrims could not be converted into regular tourism to boost the economy of the region as not even five percent of these pilgrims stay put in Jammu to visit other pilgrim and other tourist spots which abound in the region. Mr Khajuria pointed out that like Kashmir valley, tourism in Jammu has also suffered a lot during 15 years long turmoil in the State rather had been under the adverse affect of Punjab terrorism for a decade before terrorism erupted in Kashmir, taking Jammu region also in its fold. Yet all the packages of compensation to make good the loss suffered by the tourism sector and incentives have remained confined to Kashmir valley. He demanded that a good tourism package be announced for Jammu region. The organisation forcefully put forth the demand of separate tourist circuits of first Jammu city and its surroundings including twin lakes of Mansar and Saruinsar, pilgrim spots of Purmandal and Uttarvehni, Chichi Mata etc can be created and a separate development authority should be set up for for the same. The second circuit of Vaishno Devi, Shiv Khori, Shahdara Sharief in Rajouri, Budha Amarnath and Dera Nangali Sahib in Poonch and Kamleshwar temple in Akhnoor be identified. Another circuit of Ranjit Sagar Dam, Sukrala Mata, Basohli, Billawar, Bani and Sarthal be identified. The fourth circuit of Bhaderwah, Kishtwar, including historic Kailash Yatra , Jhai and Sarthal Devi in Kishtwar be identified. These will be besides the already identified circuit of Patnitop. Ravi Mahajan said that the outstanding arrears of interest on the past loans in respect of hotels, lodges, tourist taxis and other tourist related trades in Jammu be waived off as has been the case with Kashmir valley. Tawi bank face lift with artificial lake in the river and walkways along its banks and plantation will go a long way to change the environmental and climatic scenario of Jammu city. Moreover, Disturbed Area Act be withdrawn from Jammu. JSSM all set to intensify separate Jammu movement Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: After constituting its various units in different colleges and educational institutions, Jammu State Students Morcha, students wing of Jammu State Morcha, is all set to intensify the ongoing struggle for separate Jammu State. The agitational programme is commencing with a protest demonstration on November 22 at Jammu University which will be followed by a series of such programmes throughout the Jammu region. This was stated by JSSM president, Vivek Sharma while addressing a press conference at Jammu University, here today. "JSSM is committed to get Jammu liberated from the clutches of Kashmiri rulers and have separate Statehood for a permanent end to all discriminations with the region," he stated. Alleging that Mufti Sayeed led coalition Government in the State was also pursuing anti-Jammu policies like previous Governments in J&K, Vivek Sharma highlighted the instances of alleged discrimination with Jammu during the present regime. "Under the healing touch policy, terrorists are being released and given Rs 1,50,000 each for their rehabilitation while educated youth from Jammu are being subjected to a cruel joke by offering them employment of mere Rs 1500 per month under Rehbar-e-Talim," he said. Further, he added, the State Government is spending crores of rupees for development of Kashmir while no attention is being given to the tourist spots in Jammu. "Due to terrorism, seventy per cent industries in Jammu have been virtually closed while packages are being announced for Kashmir valley where the main business is trading of dry fruits," he explained and demanded a special package for Jammu industry. Vivek Sharma also highlighted some other demands of JSSM which included separate Competent Authority for Jammu, implementation of Wazir Commission recommendations, constitution of De-limitation commission etc. In the press conference, Vivek Sharma was flanked by Vinay Sharma, Vikrant Singh, Sunil Sharma, Jagpal Singh and Sham Sharma. How long will PoK refugees
continue to be Excelsior Correspondent JAMMU, Nov 17: When will the refugees from Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir (PoK) get the justice in Jammu and Kashmir and how long they will continue to be warehoused in camps? These question marks were raised by the PoK refugees under the banner of SOS—an organisation of PoK refugees at the time when Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh has begun his maiden visit to the State. "We want to know from Dr Singh, who is himself a refugee from Pakistan, as to what the Central Government has in its kitty for PoK refugees, who are being meted out with shabby treatment for the last 57 years", chairman of the organisation Rajiv Chuni asked while talking to media-persons here today. Chuni said that Prime Minister can call himself a refugee but not PoK refugees because no decision has been taken on their status so far. Everybody talks of violation of human rights but could there be any more glaring instance of injustice to mankind where 24 Assembly seats belonging to them have been frozen thus subjugating their political rights, said Chuni, adding "it is a blot on Indian democracy when a displaced community is prevented to be represented in the State Legislature". He said that Kashmiri migrants got atleast Rs 2600 crore worth relief during the last 15 years but nobody paid any attention towards the PoK refugees, who are the first community after World War-II and establishment of UNO in 1945 to face the onslaught of Pan Islamic fundamentalist terrorists and worst crime against humanity. "Why our plight has gone unnoticed so far", he asked and hoped that Dr Manmohan Singh would understand the intensity of problems the PoK refugees are confronting with. He disclosed that Resettlement Act which grants refugee status to people migrated from PoK and Pakistan has not been implemented in Jammu and Kashmir. The Organisation appealed the Prime Minister not to act like his predecessors. Instead initiate steps to provide justice to PoK refugees. The main demands of refugees include benefits as enshrined in the UN Charter for refugees, register claims in respect of movable and immovable properties left behind in PoK and pay compensation, reserve six Assembly seats for PoK refugees, clear all the cases regarding the allotment of plots and keep quota in professional colleges, institutes and Government jobs for PoK refugees. Iran-e-Kabeer in
Iran-e-Sageer From Ahmed Ali Fayyaz SRINAGAR, Nov 17: K Asif’s magnum opus Mughal-e-Azam will be returning to the Paradise on Earth after two-and-a-half days. This time with vengeance. Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed will have the pleasure of inaugurating Jammu and Kashmir’s first ever feature film festival with the fully colour print of Dilip Kumar, Madhu Bala starrer on November 19th. Yet again, credit for breaking an ice would go to Broadway Cinema which was re-opened by the former Chief Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah after a long pause of seven years in 1997 with a Bollywood so-so ‘Kareeb’. And the glitterati at the inauguration included the Producer-Director of Mission Kashmir Vishnu Vinod Chopra. Kareeb’s heroin Neha had flown to Srinagar all the way from Mumbai. Even as K Asif had made Mughal-e-Azam in black-and-white in 1960, with a song sequence in colour, Valley’s cinema fans would watch a completely colour print of the film on Friday. It is India’s first black-and-white movie which has been turned into colour cinemascope, with Dolby sound, frame by frame. Sangeeta Singh, Director in the Union Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, will be personally reaching here on Thursday with the 80-kg print. Secretary in the Union I&B Ministry, Mr Naven Chawla, who is currently part of the Prime Minister’s entourage in Jammu and Kashmir, is understood to have organised Kashmir’s first feature film festival in co-ordination with the State Government. Chawla has taken keen interest to personally sift through the national archives in Delhi to make the collection. As many as 22 feature films are being screened at Broadway and Neelam theatres for nine days, beginning Friday. I&B Ministry has reportedly booked all seats at the two cinema halls and asked the State Information Department to issue complimentary passes and free tickets to all those desiring to see the films. As many as six films are in the foreign segment and all these are Iranian. Sources said that a couple of the Iranian films would be the creations of the world-famous Makhmalbaf family. Iran’s cultural, religious and geographical affinity with Kashmir had made Dr Sir Mohammad Iqbal to call the Valley "Iran-e-Sageer" (The smaller Persia). Sara, Where Is My Friend’s Home?, The Actor, Close-Up, Cease Fued and Once Upon A Time will be the Iranian collection in the festival. Three shows of different films would be run every day from November 20 to Nov 27 at both Broadway and Neelam. Syed Shahab-ud-din’s son-in-law, Afzal Amanullah, who happens to be an IAS officer and presently Joint Secretary in the Union I&B Ministry besides J&K Government’s Resident Commissionet at New Delhi, Pervez Dewan, have reportedly played a key role in making the selection and organising the first feature film festival in Srinagar. The films to be screened in the festival include the Indian art films Agantuk (Satyajit Ray), Mitr My Friend and Bariwali, which won Kiran Kher an international accolade in Africa this year. A 50-year-old Kashmiri film Bab is among four films, all shot in the Valley, which will be in the Kashmir category. Others are Kashmir, Kashmir Ki Kali and Phir Wahi Dil Laya Hoon. Some of the recently produced Bollywood films like Dil Deke Dekho and Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa are also likely to be screened during the festival. Significantly, SKICC in Srinagar hosted a week-long documentary film festival which was jointly organised by Doordarshan and Public Service Broadcasting Trust. Over a dozen films screened at the SKICC were those produced by PSBT and Audio Visual Reasearch Centre (AVRC) of Kashmir University. Films which received the highest critical appreciation included Shafqat Habib’s ‘Waiting For The Lama". The Documatary Film festival was followed by a festival of the children’s movies organised by the Children’s Film Society of India at Tagore Hall last month. |
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