Process delayed in absence of power back-up
Installation of close-circuit cameras in Jammu on hold

By Mohinder Verma

JAMMU, Nov 12: Jammu and Kashmir Police measures to guard vital and strategically important installations through the close circuit surveillance cameras have presently gone out of focus in absence of necessary and timely support from State’s Power Development Department (PDD).

The process of installation of surveillance cameras to zero-in on the movement of suspected persons by sitting in the Police Control Room (PCR) was started in February this year but one problem after another stalled the work a number of times, authoritative sources told the EXCELSIOR.

Even after the delay of 10 months, the fate of project continued to hang in balance. The latest hurdle in the taking off project is the failure of the Power Development Department (PDD) to make arrangements for round the clock electricity supply to the surveillance cameras so that they can keep watch on the activities around vital installations and busiest chowks, the sources said.

Unlike Srinagar where PDD provided 24 hour power connection to the surveillance cameras without raising any question in the interest of general public, in Jammu, the Department first agreed to provide connections and then refused the same on the pretext that it needs funds for the same.

When the issue was brought to the notice of Director General of Police (DGP) Gopal Sharma, he ordered immediate release of Rs 9.50 lakh to PDD. "But even after receiving the required amount about two and half months back, the PDD authorities have failed to provide power connections to surveillance cameras", the sources regretted.

Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Jammu Niaz Mehmood, when contacted, said at present the delay is only on part of the PDD. He said that work on control room of surveillance cameras was at final stage and would be completed within next few days. "Even tower of these cameras which got damaged due to the strong winds recently, has again been erected", he informed.

The cameras at 16 locations of the Jammu—14 in the walled city and one each at Bikram and Satwari Chowks, would be installed the day PDD expresses readiness to provide power connections, the DIG said and added that installing cameras without basic component of 24 hour power supply would be of no use.

He further said that training of some additional police personnel in handling the monitors of these cameras was also going to be completed within few days.

When contacted, Chief Engineer of Power Development Department D S Pawar said that delay was due to tendering process and added that Department was making all out efforts to provide power connections at the places desired by the Jammu Police as early as possible.

He said that Department has to lay 16 kilometre electricity wires especially for the surveillance cameras and this process was yet to begin.

It is pertinent to mention here that digital monitoring system would help Jammu Police in maintaining hawk’s eye on anti-social and anti-national elements. In the control room, there would be a facility of zoom-in and rolling back recordings for the purpose of identification.

PIL seeking facilities for over 36,000 children
DB directs Govt to set-up schools for blind, deaf, dumb

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 12: Division Bench of the State High Court comprising Chief Justice BA Khan and Justice BA Kirmani, in a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) seeking facilities for more than 36,000 children in the age group of 6 to 14 who have been found highly handicapped and physically challenged, has directed the Secretary Social Welfare Department and Directors Social Welfare Jammu and Kashmir to file their status report. As per the direction of the Court, all the officers have filed their status report and submitted that the issue of determination of 40% of disability and payment of assistance to disabled persons in proportions to the quantum of disability required amendment of the J&K Persons with Disabilities Act 1998.

The Secretary’s report shows that the State Level coordination committee and executive committee entrusted with the task of coordinating plans and programs for implementing provisions of the Act stand already constituted about two years back. Upon this, the DB said it was surprising that neither existence of these committees is known, nor is there any evidence of their coordinated action leading to the formulation of any policy or its implementation on the subject of problems faced by disabled persons.

As a matter of fact, it is a common complaint that Social Welfare Dept has been functioning in isolation and mostly found to be dealing with routine matters without their being any policy or plan of action adopted by it to implement provisions of the act. It become necessary that the state level coordination committee and executive committee are activated and periodical meetings are held by these committees to ensure coordination between various departments and the Govt to implement the decisions taken by the committees in their meetings and DB issued directions that Secretary to Govt Social Welfare Dept to take necessary steps for convening meetings of state level coordination committee and executive committee at least once in three months to review the status of implementations of various plans, policies and program for the welfare of disabled persons.

The report of secretary also show that there are 36,714 children in the age group of 6 to 14 years who have been found highly handicapped and physically challenged and whose special needs are required to be attended to, of these about 4,000 are said to be having impaired vision and an identical number suffering from hearing disability.

As on today, there is no educational facility for them by way of any separate schools for blind, deaf and dumb. It would be worthwhile to consider setting up such schools first in the Srinagar and Jammu Cities. The Secretary Social Welfare and his two Directors are directed to take steps for establishment of these schools in the two cities in the first instance and also to examine and explore possibility of setting-up of similar schools at suitable locations in each district, the DB ordered.

It said that there are complainants that the proposals submitted by the state Govt to Ministry of Social Justice and empowerment Govt of India are going unattended and similarly various schemes provided for by the Ministry are neither known nor are being effectively implemented. The DB directed Secretary to Ministry of Social Justice and empowerment Govt of India to accord consideration to all pending proposals of the State Govt on the subject and to ensure accord of consideration and clearance thereof expeditiously. "He is also directed to take necessary steps to make public various schemes, which are available for physically handicapped persons in the state and to cause filling up status of implementation of such schemes through any competent authority before this Court one week in advance before the next date", it was ordered.

The DB took serious note of the complaints against DCs and CMOs sitting over cases of payment of pension to disabled persons even though the same are cleared by the Social Welfare Dept. DB upon these complaints directed all Deputy Commissioners and Chief Medical Officer of the State to dispose off all the pending cases of payment of pension to disabled persons within two weeks from receipt of this order and to show compliance. Each of these authorities shall submit undertakings before the Court that no such case will remain pending with them for more than two weeks after its receipt by them from Social Welfare Dept, it was further held.

'Corruption' case committed 24 years ago
HC allows appeal, passes strictures against complainant

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 12: Justice YP Nargotra of the State High Court Jammu wing has allowed two appeals filed by the then ASI and a Constable of police who were involved in corruption case about 24 years ago and passed strictures against complainant and his witnesses and also set-aside the conviction awarded by the trial Court passed on December 21, 2001, whereby Court convicted and sentenced the appellants to under go imprisonment for four years with a fine of Rs 20,000 each.

The case of the prosecution was that complainant Mod Saleem of Mendhar lodged a complaint with the Additional Inspector General of Police Jammu on April 12, 1983, alleging there in that he had paid Rs 1500/- to appellants on the assurance that they will arrange recruitment in police for the complainant on October 22, 1982. The police after investigating the case, registered FIR against appellant Pran Nath Koul the then ASI and Constable Mohd Khaliq and Constable Tasawar Hussain on November 20, 1983. After completion of the investigation the Challan was presented in the Court.

During the pendency of the trial, accused Mohd Khaliq absconded and proceedings against him under section 512 CrPC were initiated and the appellants Pran Nath Koul and Tasawar Hussain faced the Trial. The Trial Court appreciating the evidence of the prosecution, awarded sentence to both the appellants. Aggrieved by the judgment of the Trial Court, appellants filed these appeals.

While allowing the appeal and setting aside the conviction awarded by the Trial Court, Justice YP Nargotra took serious note of the case and observed that criminal cases lodged against public servant on the allegations of his having demanded and accepted the money as illegal gratification, generally arise out of two types of complaints: First type of complaint being that of a complainant who on the demand of bribe by a public servant before actually paying the bribe amount to him goes to the police and lodged the complaint and discloses the facts of such demand of the bribe and enables police to register FIR and during investigation to arrange a trap and in the process apprehend the public servant red-handed immediately after acceptance of the bribe. In such case corpus delicti the bribe amount can also be recovered. While the other type of the complaint, the complainant who on demand being made, readily and willingly pays the bribe amount to the Public Servant for due or undue favour and only if he does not get the favour promised for, he lodged the complaint against such public servant and in such case no recovery of bribe amount comes to be made.

Complainants in both the situation though enjoy the legal impunity from prosecution for the offence of giving bribe but cannot stand at the same pedestal, so far as their reliability and credibility of their evidence in the Court is concerned, because in the first case the assurance and necessary corroboration to is version can emanate from the fact recovery of bribe amount from the accused if proved but in the second case the version of the complainant cannot have any such assurance or corroboration. In absence of recovery of the bribe amount, his version ordinarily would deserve to be looked upon with suspicion and for reliability the Court shall have to look for strong corroboration from other trustworthy evidence from independent source for recording the conviction of public servant for having accepted the bribe.

The conviction of a public servant on the basis of testimony of such a complainant even if supported by interested or his relation witnesses would be hazardous because in that case it would be very easy for an unscrupulous person to get an honest but un-obliging officer falsely implicated on allegation of corruption. A heavy duty is cost upon the Courts to protect an officer from being harassed at the hands of an unscrupulous person.

With these observations, the Court said that the Trial Court has not appreciated the evidence of the prosecution rightly and the evidence of the complainant and his two brothers could not be relied upon to hold the applicants guilty. In the considered opinion of the, Court the prosecution cannot be said to have proved its case beyond all reasonable shadow of doubt against the accused/appellants as such they are acquitted of the charges and the judgment passed by the Trial Court impugned in these appeals shall stand set-aside.

Seminar on ‘Changing Scenario
of Competitive Examinations’

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 12: Narayana- pioneer institute in Medical and Engineering coaching, in association with IKONS Institute, Jammu, conducted a seminar on the topic ‘Changing Scenario of Competitive Examination: Survive or Succeed’, here today.

The event also served as a platform for the prize distribution function of the recently concluded Inter-School competition, held on November 5, by Narayana.

Former Minister Mohd Shafi Uri was chief guest on the occasion while former Vice-Chancellor of Jammu University, Prof M R Puri and A K Kapoor, chairman of Adarsh Education Trust, presided over the function. Zia Siddiqui, General Manager Operations, Narayana, was also present on the occasion.

The seminar was conducted by Aushutosh Nath, who briefed the students about changing trends of competitive examinations. He also talked about the difference in preparing about the board exams and competitive exams. Mr Nath gave valuable tips to the students as how to manage their time in preparing for competitive exams and also gave suggestions on stress management.

In second half of the function, Kunal Anand, Director Operations, Jammu centre, threw light on the achievements of Narayana Jammu Centre and its Association with IKONS Institute Jammu. He also read out the annual report of the centre and declared results of inter school competition.

Thirty six prizes, 18 each in AIEEE and PMT, were given away to the students. Apart from three top slots, 15 merit prizes were also awarded.

The top three honours in each category were given to Ankit Koul, Ishan Pal Singh, Shalki Mattas (AIEEE), Isha Sunil, Mohd Yasin and Mehak (PMT).

IKONS also felicitated those students who have secured ranks and seats in various competitive exams in 2006. The highest honour was conferred upon Aditya Jandial who got the best student award for securing highest marks in CBSE Board exams, selection in AFMC, selection in GMC Jammu and 15th State rank in AIEEE. The School of Jammu award was bagged by Presentation Convent HSS.

Earlier, Mridula Ujjwal, Senior Manager Admission (Narayana) briefed the audience about Narayana Institute and apprised them how it was different from others

Vivek Sheel, Director Academics, presented vote of thanks.

Gandhian couple accorded warm welcome by Lions Club

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 12: Lions Club Jammu Royal felicitated a Gandhian couple who reached by covering a distance of over 5000 kms on bicycle here today.

The Madurai based couple, M. Karuppiah and his wife- Chitra launched their journey with the message of peace, brotherhood and national integration on July 15 from Gandhi Museum, Madurai in Tamil Nadu. The couple planned to cover entire India on bicycle.

The cycle yatra is planned and designed entirely by Karuppiah couple and sponsored by members of Lions Club International.Inspired by the teachings and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, the couple decided to carry the message of Father of the Nation to every nook and corner of the country.

Members of Lions Club Jammu Royal including R D Gupta, Rajesh Gupta, Sanjeev Soni, Devinder Gupta, Sanjay Nagpal, Amit Jandyal, Rajesh Langar, Partap Mahajan, K S Sambyal and Neeraj Tandon received the couple at Press Club of Jammu near Exhibition Ground this afternoon. They organised a felicitation function in their honour.

The couple told media-persons that they have covered nine states to reach J&K and on their way back they will cover Himachal Pradesh, Uttranchal, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Sikkim, all North-Eastern states, West Bengal, Orissa and Andhra Pradesh to reach Tamil Nadu. The couple will be concluding their journey at Pondicherry. They said their return journey will be 7000 kms and they will be taking nearly 125 days to cover it.

State gets over Rs 3,000 cr investments from private players

SRINAGAR, Nov 12: Notwithstanding the raging militancy in the State has recieved more than Rs 3,000 crore investments from private players in various projects after the Centre and the State Government announced various incentives.

State Industrial Development Corporation has mobilised an investment of Rs 3,174 crore from the private sector for development of industries, SIDCO officials said.

Of the 1,229 units set up so far, 39 in medium and large sector and 380 in small scale sector were in production. These units provided employment to nearly 50,000 people in the three regions - Jammu, Ladakh and the Kashmir valley, they said.

In addition, 82 units in medium and large sector and 611 units in small scale sector were under implementation with investment of Rs 1,434 crore and Rs 510 crore respectively.

The units set up so far include pesticides, paint manufacturing, card board manufacturting, iron and steel, food processing, electronic and electrical gadgets, water storage tanks, edible oil and vanaspati.

The State Government had in 2004 framed a new industrial policy, granting various tax exemptions. Further, land for the units is leased out to developers on concessional rates.

The Centre, too, had announced a package of incentives, similar to what north-eastern states get, to promote industrial development in the State.

Although the State was facing a power crisis, the State was making efforts to supply power to industrial estates, SIDCO Managing Director Irfan Yaseen told.

Yaseen said Jammu region has made rapid strides in the development of industries with the result that the land earmarked for allotment by SIDCO has been exhaused in the two major industrial estates of Bari Brahamana and Samba.

SIDCO has been laying emphasis to ensure development of industries in Kashmir. This has yielded good dividends and land at two industrial estates of Rangreth and Khonmoh has also been exhausted, he said.

In view of the demand for land in industrial estates, SIDCO is now developing similar facilities at Lassipora in Pulwama district and other Backward Areas.

He said SIDCO has launched an ambitious plan to develop 466 hectares of land in various parts of the State. In this connection, 16 hectares of land are under development at Handwara, Pattan, Udhampur, Kathua, Kishtwar and Kargil.

He said the sole objective of the State Government to woo industrialists from other parts of the country was to create more jobs in the State.

However, he said, investors must employ a minimum of 90 per cent locals as the pre-condition for availing incentives.

During the last three years, SIDCO has focussed on developing industrial infrastructure under various centrally sponsored schemes like software technology parks, ICDs (Inland Container Depots) and food parks, Yaseen said.

The State Government has also formulated a programme to revive sick units and has provided soft loans of Rs 3.33 crore to 3,151 such units, he added. (PTI)

Create college infrastructure in Thannamandi

The standard of education in Thanamandi needs attention. This can be ascertained from the absence of Science and Commerce faculty in the Govt Degree College, Thannamandi. It is regretted that the Government has not provided Science and Commerce faculty in the college where a large number of students are enrolled every year. Those students desirous of opting for Science and Commerce stream face a lot of problems. They have to take admissions in other colleges at Rajouri or Jammu. In these colleges they are denied admissions on one excuse or the other. Those who get admissions are denied hostel accommodation. Students belonging to remote areas like Thannamandi, Darhal, Saj, Fatehpur are the worst sufferers. These admissions also involve huge expenditure in terms of private accommodation and food. As a result of it poor students are forced to leave their studies midway.

So, it is requested to Administration and Minister for Higher Education to set up Science and Commerce stream in the college and streamline the functioning of college as per the need of time.

Vikram Mahajan
Rajouri.

Written exam for Naib Tehsildar

I want to draw your kind attention towards the selection of Naib Tehsildar. The application for the post of the Naib Tehsildar were invited in 2002 and 2005 respectively. It was decided by the service selection board that written examination will be observed for the above said posts. But till today the examination has not been conducted by the concern authority. In the meantime mostly the candidates have crossed the upper age limit.

The Service Selection Board has conducted the written examination for the above said posts successfully in 1995.

So it is requested that concern authorities should conduct the written exam of all the candidates who have applied for the post of Naib Tehsildar as early as possible so that unemployed youth may not face any kind of harassment.

Sanjay Kumar
Jammu.

Problem of stray dogs in Jammu

The problem of stray dogs is increasing day by day with large number of birth in streets. It has become very much difficult to walk without fear due to dog bite, which is very risky for public.

Time and again, the attention of the Government has been drawn for remedial measures but no action has been taken yet.

An article was published in Daily Excelsior dt 24.10.2006, that Shimla Munc. Copr has launched drive to sterilize stray dogs and also vaccinate them against rabies and other diseases to keep a check on the canine population.

It is a welcome step of the S.M.C. and accordingly it is requested that the Jammu Municipal Corporation too should consider such an effective step, thus preventing the birth of unwanted animals and give relief to the people as well as to the traffic also from these dogs and other stray animals too.

It is requested that the Government should take due cognizance of letters published in newspapers and address the problems of the people.

S D Khanna
Sarwal

Improve drainage system

With due reverence, we the inhabitants of Chinore, Bantalab want to draw you kind attention that the drainage system and roads of our area is poor despite being area on height. The rainwater gets collected on the roads and in the vacant plots of the area, which is prone to accidents and can be cause of diseases as the summer season is ahead. It is very difficult and dangerous for the school children to walk on these roads but the constrained to do so due to reason of going to school.

It is as such requested to your goodself to look into the matter and direct the concerned authorities to provide us civic amenities so that we can be safe from any calamity.

An early action in the mater shall be always rememberd.

Subash Chander
Councillor
(Ward No. 62) Jammu.

Roop Nagar enclave residents’ plea to Power Minister

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 12: Roop Nagar Enclave Block A Welfare Committee in a meeting today held under the chairmanship of its president B J Zutshi expressed grave concern over the continued breakdown of power supply line M U- 8 affecting drinking water supply to the area.

The meeting in an appeal to Minister of Power has urged him that this power supply line may be segregated and made essential service line so that the people in Roop Nagar Enclave and surrounding localities may be relieved of continued water crisis.

The meeting alleged that the drinking water supply in the area is presently hostage to restoration of power supply. It also alleged that earlier promises of installation of D G sets has not been fulfilled.

Mr P K Peshin general secretary of the Committee expressed the hope that works on damaged lanes and drains will be taken up in hand by the concerned department.

Presentation Convent School celebrates annual day

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 12: Presentation Convent Senior Secondary School celebrated its annual day function wherein the students put up a spectacular display ‘Alankrit Vasundhra’, highlighting the burning issue of desertification.

The events was inaugurated by MoS Rural Development Javaid Mustafa Mir while MP Lal Singh was chief guest during the fourth presentation. Hridesh Kumar Singh ( Deputy Commissioner Jammu), Dr Mumtaz Goni (Principal GMC Jammu) and Vinod Sharma ( Commissioner JMC) were the chief guest for the other presentations.

Awareness was created about the disastrous effects of mindless deforestation which leads to increased occurrence of natural calamities and desertification. Menace of plastic and use of eco-friendly substitutes; role of urbanisation and industrialisation in causing desertification were the other issues projected. Besides this, lifestyle of people of Rajasthan and destruction of Himalayan belt was also depicted.

The central attraction was the ballet based on Tawi river. It was directed and choreographed by Satish Chander while the music was composed by Neelu Varinder and Subash Dogra.

Declare Jammu as Heritage city, rename it as Jambu: MLA

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 12: Member Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Jammu East and former Pradesh Youth Congress chief, Yogesh Sawhney has demanded that Jammu be declared as Heritage City keeping in view its historic importance and change its name to original one as "Jambu".

Addressing a press conference here today, Mr Sawhney stressed upon the Central government to declare Jammu as the Heritage city as several like others cities have been declared in Rajasthan and release special funds for preservation and maintenance of the old monuments, historic palaces and forts which are major sources of attraction for the pilgrims and tourists here.

Mr Sawhney said Jammu city has the rich history and people of various communities reside here peacefully. They have displayed a rare example of maintaining communal harmony during several times of test in the past. He said the then King Jambulochan had witnessed a lion and goat drinking water from the same pond, while hunting and decided to set up a city here which was named after his name Jambu.

He pointed out that if Bombay can be renamed as Mumbai or Madras as Chennai then Jammu should also be renamed as ‘Jambu’. He claimed to raise the issue in the Assembly for changing name of Jammu. Mr Sawhney demanded more funds for the beautification of Jammu and stressed upon the government for the early completion of Mubarik Mandi-Bahu Fort cable car project.

Referring to some achievements, Mr Sawhney said that Rs 2 cr were spent in Jammu East Assembly constituency on shifting and replacing old and broken water pipes. He said with this water supply position has improved in several city localities and people have heaved a sigh of relief. In the health sector, a waiting hall has been constructed in SMGS hospital at a cost of Rs 25 lakh and Rs 36 lakh were spent on black topping and repair of roads in Jammu East this year. Besides were, Central Basic High School and Jullaka Mohallah High School were upgraded as Higher Secondaries. Another school of Ghas Mandi was also upgraded recently. Former MLA and DCC Jammu (Urban) president Om Chopra and PCC spokesperson Ravinder Sharma were also present.

PDP convention held at Chrar-e-Sharief

Excelsior Correspondent

Srinagar, Nov. 12: Reiterating the People’s Democratic Party’s resolve that conscious people’s aspirations especially provision of job opportunities and peace with dignity, Forests, Environment and Housing and Urban Development Minister Qazi Mohammad Afzal has emphasised on the infrastructure development and making endeavors to solve un-employment crises in the state to put the human resource for making the state prosperous and developed as per Common Minimum Programme.

The Minister was addressing a party convention at Chrar-e-Sharief.

Among others, senior PDP leaders A. R. Veeri, Ghulam Nabi Lone Hanjoura, Party General secretary Nizamudin Bhat, Peerzada Mansoor Hussain,a galaxy of local leaders including district office bearers of parent body and youth wing also addressed the convention.

Qazi Afzal said that socio-economic transformation of Jammu and Kashmir State was the top priority of the present coalition Government. He said that CMP of the Government is being implemented in letter and sprit which envisages equitable development of all the three regions of the state besides providing basic amenities to the people at their door step especially in far flung and bad pockets of the state.

He said that sufficient funds would be provided for the developmental works under execution in the Charar-e-Sharief town. Qazi Afzal said that 25 PHE schemes have been sanctioned for the Charar-e-Sharief constituency. He asked the party workers to maintain close coordination with each other and up to come the expectations of the people.

Former Minister and MLA Abdul RehmanVeeri recalled the role of PDP and sacrifices of its workers made during last four years regime. He said PDP’s peace agenda has brought solace to the people and its role in coalition government enhanced prestige of the political system.

Party general secretary, Nizamu-din Bhat impressed upon the workers to develop political commitment and sense of public service so that a strong base for value based politics is laid for ultimate good of Kashmir society.

Peerzada Munsoor Hussasin and Mr. Ghulam Nabi Lone Hanjoura in their address said that wisdom and perseverance of party patron Mufti Mohammad Sayed and dynamism and commitment of Mehbooba has brought a radical change in states political climate, which, they added, offers a hope of bright future for State people.

Kissan Tehreek activists protest, organise rally

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 12: Activists of Kissan Tehreek held protest demonstration followed by a rally near Press Club here today against the Government’s anti farmer policies which led many farmers outside the state to commit suicide.

In the rally, several Kissan leaders including joint secretary, All India Kissan Sabha Noorul Huda (Ex-MP) and secretary Harayana Kissan Sabha, Harpal Singh expressed their views and sought support on the country wide agitation programme of the farmers and gherao of Parliament in New Delhi on Nov 20. The programme was organised by J&K unit of the Tahreek under the leadership of O N Trisal, its president.

Mr Huda while speaking on the occasion, urged upon the Union government to take necessary measures for providing easy credit to the farmers, power technology, infrastructure facilities etc. He also opposed the move of government regarding forceful occupation of farmers’ land for raising industries and seeking foreign investments. He pointed out that agricultural land was fast shrinking and farmers were losing their livelihood with the wrong policies of the Government.

Joint Secretary Punjab Kissan Sabha demanded that crop insurance scheme be enforced throughout the country on all types of crops. He also asked to enact an all India Law which guarantees work, fixed wages and social justice to the agriculture workers. Harpal Singh secretary (HKS), demanded setting up of Kissan Commission at the state level so that the issues being faced by farmers are taken up urgently. He further demanded probe into causes of suicides by farmers. Mr Trisal and Ghulam Nabi Malik, general secretary raised the problems of local farmers of the state and demanded compensation for damaged crops due to rains and hailstorm.

Devotees take out Jhanki on concluding day of Bhagwat Katha

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 12: The seven day long Shrimad Bhagwat Katha by Swami Danish Bharti at Baba Kailash Temple, Raipur, Bantalab near here concluded today.

The Katha was organized by Baba Kailash Temple Committee headed by Ram Paul Sharma. On the concluding day today an impressive jhanki was taken out by the devotees of Swami Ji from the temple premises. It after passing via Raipur, Bantalab and Barnai later concluded at the venue of the Katha.

Hundreds of the devotees attended the function to hear the religious discourses of the Swami Ji. A bhandara (community feast) was also orgnanised today for the devotees.

Giving the religious discourses today Swami Ji exhorted the parents to imbibe good sanaskars and the spirit of patriotism and nationalism among their children.

He decried upon those who oppose recitation of Vande Matram during the national functions saying this song has inspired millions of people to join the freedom movement and wage a war against the foreign rulers.

This followed a question answer session in which Swami Ji put questions pertaining patriotism to the children. They were also presented the awards by Swami Ji.

The vote of thanks was proposed by Shakti Dutt Sharma. He also highlighted the objectives of the Temple Committee.

2 killed, 8 injured in road accidents

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 12: Two persons were killed and eight others received injuries in separate road accidents.

Police spokesman said that one Dalbir Singh, son of Chaman Singh of Amritsar was knocked to death by a speeding unidentified vehicle at Sarore on Jammu-Lakhanpur National Highway.

The critically injured pedestrian was immediately rushed to Government Medical College Hospital where he was declared as brought dead.

Police has registered a case in this connection and have started efforts to trace out the vehicle.

In another accident, helper of a craine of Jai Parkash Industries was crushed to death by craine loaded with iron sheets. The craine was on its way to Dalwas for fabrication in the JP Industries workshop.

The critically injured helper was rushed to hospital where he was pronounced as brought dead.

A case has been registered at Chanderkote Police Station in this regard.

Meanwhile, eight persons were injured in separate road accidents reported from different parts of Jammu city and its outskirts. All were rushed to hospital and their condition was stated to be out of danger when reports last came in.

They have been identified as Tilak Raj, son of Om Parkash of Pouni, Som Nath, son of Amar Nath of Durga Nagar, Sorab Sharma, son of Chander Dutt, Partik, son of Mohan Lal of Udhampur, Arti, daughter of Romesh Chander of Kathua, Nayat Ullah, son of Samad Ullah of Sidhra, Sanjay Kumar, son of Vishwa Nath of Purkhoo and Rakesh Kumar, son of Hans Ram of Chopra Shop.

Sant Sammelan organised

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 12: In connection with year long centenary celebrations of former Sar Sangchalak of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Madhav Rao Sadashiv Rao Golwalkar, popularly known as Guru Ji, a Sant Samelan was today organised at Swami Syamanand Ashram, Muthi by Sri Guru Ji Janam Shatabdi Samaroh Committee Kashmir.

Besides the Saints representing various Ashrams, people drawn from different corners of Jammu attended the Samelan.

In his welcome address, T N Pandita, Sang Chalak, RSS Kashmir, gave a brief introduction of Shri Golwalkar.

A resolution was moved by Dr B L Kaul resolving that Yagnopavit (wearing of sacred thread) ceremony should be performed keeping in view its sanctity and there should be no public feasting after or before this ritual.

A number of points relevant to the traditions of Dharma and value system were emphasized by the Sants to reinforce purity and sanctity in life.

Swami Pran Nath Bhat Gareb stressed the women folk to take a leading role in reforming the society, while Swami Kumar Ji of Geeta Satsang Ashram , Muthi emphasized that the Sanaskars are vital to the life of the individual.

Posh Bab of Gangyal Ashram impressed upon the people to desist from ostentation in performance of Sanaskars like Yagnopavit and marriages etc.

Sh Radhya Sham Ji of Roop Nagar Ashram exhorted the people to stick to the moral values in both religious and secular aspects of living while Swami Durga Giri of Nand Kishore Ashram Akalpur emphasized the need to purge the society of evils.

Swami Moti Lal Pandita of Subash Nagar Ashram said that observance of good Karma is central to a fruitful life.

Swami Kumar Ji of Garhi Ashram emphasized the practice of simplicity and eschewing the evils proclivities. The other saints who were present on the occasion included Swami Chaman Lal Bamzi of Nand Bab Ashram, Swami Prithvi Nath Ji of Atma Ram Ji Ashram, Swami Dev Giri, Gash Bab Ashram Durga Nagar, Sushri Aparna Ji of Swami Syamanand Ji Ashram.

Praja Parishad holds youth conference

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 12: Youth conference of Praja Parishad Gandhi Nagar was held today under the chairmanship of Sunil Ghai in which one hundred youth led by Akash Gupta and Pankaj Mahajan joined the Party.

This was claimed by the Praja Parishad in a handout issued here, today. It said the new entrants were taken into Party fold by Shatru Jamwal, City president Praja Parishad.

Addressing the conference, president of the Praja Parishad, Chander Mohan Sharma said the recent announcement of Chief Minister, Ghulam Nabi Azad about enactment of law against the land grabbing is a welcome step. He however expressed doubts that his other slogans such as work culture and anti corruption drive may prove futile.

He alleged that the mafia involved in land scandals are closely connected with influential leaders of Congress, PDP and NC which is a challenge for the Chief Minister.

He said it should not be left to administration to check this menace and demanded that a judicial Commission be empowered to recover the grabbed land of the Government and also check the inflow of population from one district to another district.

He,while welcoming the youth in the Party fold urged them to join the struggle launched by the Party for the rights, justice and strengthening relationship with India.

2 bodies recovered under suspicious circumstances

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 12: Two bodies were recovered under suspicious circumstances while as three persons allegedly consumed poisonous substances at their respective residences.

Police spokesman said that an unidentified body of a woman was recovered from River Chenab under the jurisdiction of Akhnoor Police Station. The body was spotted by some locals, who informed the police.

The body has been lying in the mortuary of Sub-District Hospital Akhnoor for identification and post-mortem.

Police has initiated inquest proceedings in this regard.

Another body was recovered from R S Pura. The body of a man aged about 30 years was found on the road side by some passers-by and they immediately informed R S Pura Police about the incident.

The body has been lying in the mortuary of Government Medical College Hospital.

Meanwhile, three persons allegedly consumed poisonous substances at their respective residences. Identified as Rattan Lal, son of Kunju Ram of Daskal, Munish Kumar, son of Ravi Kumar of R S Pura and Pawan Sharma of Bakshi Nagar, they were rushed to Government Medical College Hospital when spotted unconscious by the 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.

Police has taken cognizance of the incidents.

Excise, Commercial Tax employees’ plea to Govt

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 12: The J&K Excise and Commercial Tax Employees Union in an appeal to State Government, has urged it to come out with a policy decision to regularize the services of over 470 employees on class fourth posts in 1996.

This appeal was made by Union leaders at a joint press conference here today. They said the Chief Minister, Ghulam Nabi Azad should keep his promise made with the Union leadership on August 12 this year and allow these hapless employees to continue their services on the pattern of other 40,000 class fourth employees appointed on the same pattern in other departments.

Justifying their demand they said termination of services will be a grave injustice with these employees who have served the Department for the last 10 years and they have attained the age limit for recruitment in the Government services now.

Expressing concern over the reported move of the Government to terminate the services of these employees, they said any such decision will be a discriminatory step as the same pattern was adopted for appointment of 40,000 employees in other Government departments.

The press conference was addressed by Adil Rashid Khan, state president, Nazir Ahmed Bhat, general secretary, Surinder Sharma, senior vice president and Arjun Wazir, vice president.

They also appealed the Government that no selection should be made against the posts on which they have been working for last 10 years.

Road march by cops in Udhampur

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Nov 12: To create awareness among people, Udhampur police today organised a road march by more than 100 police constables, which started from Rhembal police station and passing through Panchairi, By-Pass and Dhar Road culminated at District Police Lines (DPL), Udhampur.

The road march was organised as a part of Police Community Participation Group (PCPG) programme on the directions of IGP Jammu Dr Shesh Pal Vaid.

Additional SP Udhampur Anil Magotra led the road march, which was also joined by DySP (DAR) Udhampur, SHO Rhembal Rajinder Sharma and SHO Panchairi Kirpal Singh. The march was organised under the supervision of SSP Udhampur Prithvi Raj Manhas.

The cops covered a total distance of 15 kms during the road march and inter-acted with the people. The people were also urged to be fit by walking and racing.

People protest Gulmarg land leasing

SRINAGAR, Nov 12: Braving incessant rains, hundreds of people today blocked Srinagar-Gulmarg road at Tangmarg in Baramulla district to protest Government proposal to lease out land in Gulmarg to investors from outside the State, officials said.

A complete shutdown was also observed in entire Tangmarg, the gateway to Gulmarg, as the protestors marched through the towns to seek support of traders.

‘Gulmarg Ki Neelami Roko’ (stop auction of Gulmarg) and ‘Hakoomat Ka Faisla Manzoor Nahi’ (Government decision is not acceptable) read the banners and playcards carried by the protestors who blocked the main road at Tangmarg, 39 km from here, they said.

It was for the second consecutive day that protesters, mostly pony owners who earn livelihood by offering joyrides to tourists in the famous hill resort, blocked the road and did not allow traffic beyond Tangmarg, officials said.

The protest is part of the programme chalked out by different organisations connected with tourism to protest the alleged anti-people decision of the Government, Gulmarg labour union president Abdul Rashid Bhat said.

He alleged the move would affect the locals financially. "We will not accept this and will continue the protest to force the Government to change its decision," Bhat said and demanded local affluent people be roped in for infrastructure development in Gulmarg rather than non-State investors.

The Government proposal to lease out land for tourism promotion generated a debate and almost brought opposition National Conference and separatists led by chairman of hardline faction of Hurriyat Conference, Syed Ali Shah Geelani, together to protest the move. (PTI)