Daily Excelsior.........State

JAMMU, Apr 18: Paying rich tributes to the last Jain Tirthankara Lord Mahavira on his birth anniversary being celebrated today across the State, Minister for Health and Medical Education, Mangat Ram Sharma said that best tributes which could be paid to this great saint is to follow his teachings for strengthening the nation.

He was addressing a largely attended congregation at Rani Park here today which had assembled to celebrate the birth day of Bhagwan Mahavira.

Mr. Sharma said Bhagwan Mahavira always stood for truth and welfare of society adding that this great lord had showed us the right path for strengthening the bonds of love and amity.

He exhorted upon the youth to join the Lords mission in large scale to make his dream a reality. He called upon them to acquaint themselves with moral and religious education. Mr. Sharma appreciated the work being done by the Jammu chapter of Lord Mahavira’s Mission for strengthening communal harmony, tranquillity, and brotherhood in the State.

He also sought the blessings of Sh. Vimal Muni ji Maharaj who happened to be present on the function.

On the occasion the students of Mahavir Jain Higher Sec. School, Jain Taruni Mandal, Sharman Sangh, Jain Dharmik Pathshalla highlighted the teachings and life of Bagwan Mahavir through cultural programme.

The Minister honoured the meritorious students of the community, who have excelled in curricular and extra-curricular activities at State and national levels on behalf of Jain Yuvak Sangh.

Among others the function was also attended by Director General IMPA, Pramodh Jain, former Union Minister and BJP leader Prof. Chaman Lal Gupta, President S. S. Jain Sabha Shri Virender Jain besides many political and religious stalwarts.

HC reduced sentence of Post-Master

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr-18 : Chief Justice KS Radhakrishnan in a criminal appeal filed against the judgment of Special Judge Anticorruption Jammu reduced the sentence of the appellant, who had been convicted in the year 2004.

The appeallant, Tilak Raj Sharma then Sub-Post Master of New Airport Jammu was convicted u/s 409 RPC 3 years rigorous imprisonment and fine Rs 2 lacs and under prevention of corruption Act, the accused was further convicted and sentenced 1 year rigorous imprisonment on December 30, 2004. However, today the Court converted rigorous imprisonments to simple imprisonments for 3 months u/s 409 RPC and further 3 months simple imprisonment on all other counts. Fuerther, the sentences shall run concurrently, Court ordered.

According to CBI case while accused Tilak Raj Sharma was working as Sub-Post Master at New-Airport Jammu, he misappropriated an amount of Rs 1, 45, 316 entrusted to him for deposit in saving/ recurring deposit and PLI of different account holders during the period 1989 to August 28, 1993. It was also alleged that accused had collected an amount of Rs 1, 27, 000 from various depositors and dishonestly reflected the entries in their pass-books without crediting the amount in the Govt records and committed forgery. The accused also alleged to have forged signatures of various account holders and effected withdrawals with dishonest and fraudulent intention by using the forged documents as genuine. The CBI conducted the investigation and presented the challan in the Court u/s 5(2) PC Act 2006 and section 409, 468 and 471 RPC.

Chief Justice KS Radhakrishnan after hearing B S Manhas with Advocate Shallu Misra appearing for the appellant and Advocate K N Bhat appearing for the CBI observed that feeble contention was raised by the counsel for the accused there was mis-joinder of charges which has been effectively met by the Trial Court. From the perusal of the charge-sheet it is clearly gatherable that charges against and allegation of misappropriation fraudulent withdrawals effected by the accused. The accused was put on trial for acts of misappropriation, forgery and allied charges the question of mis-joinder of charges had been raised for the first time when prosecution evidence was closed. Therefore, court is of the view that no failure of justice has occasioned on that plea. The counsel further submitted that the accused had repaid the entire amount and the punishment is disproportionate to the gravity of offence and also stated that the accused is now 65 years of age and leniency may be shown to him and referred a judgment of Apex Court.

Upon this Court consider the entire facts and circumstances that the accused had undergone rigors of trial for several years and he had repaid the money to the depositors considering the age of the accused court converted rigorous imprisonment to the simple imprisonment for 3 months for the charges u/s 409 RPC (against the sentence of 3 years RI and fine Rs 2 lacs) and further 3 months simple imprisonment on all other counts and ordered all the sentences shall run concurrently.

Interests of Gujjars in J&K protected with BSP: Nagar

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: Irrigation Minister of Uttar Pardesh and senior Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) leader, Lakhi Ram Nagar, has said that interests of the Gujjars and Bakerwals are protected with the BSP as these communities have only faced exploitation from other parties.

Addressing a press conference here today, Mr Nagar, who himself belongs to Gujjar community and hails from Meerut district of Uttar Pardesh said here that BSP in Uttar Pradesh provided seven seats to Gujjar candidates and out of them, five candidates won Assembly seats. "Out of five, four from Gujjar community were made ministers by Chief Minister Kumari Mayawati. Two are Cabinet Ministers while two others as Ministers of State," Mr Nagar maintained.

Mr Nagar further claimed that in Jammu and Kashmir State, the BSP has started social engineering formula on the pattern of UP and candidates from various communities are being given opportunity to contest elections so as to keep a community and caste balance. He said that Gujjar-Bakerwal candidates of potential will also be given opportunity to contest and the party would fight for their rights if comes to power in the State.

The UP Minister claimed that BSP was the only party which would provide justice to the STs in this State. He said Kumari Mayawati has supported the cause of Gujjars of Rajasthan and those in J&K would also be taken good care of by the BSP leadership. He appealed the community members to render overwhelming support to BSP in coming elections.

National general secretary and incharge J&K and Punjab of the BSP, Narender Kashyap (MLC) claimed that BSP was going to release the second list of contesting candidates of the party in J&K Assembly elections in the first week of May. He said the list of twenty candidates including two Lok Sabha candidates, has already been released. Women candidates will also find place in the list.

Referring to the creation of new party by the BSP dissidents including Dr Satpal and Ex-MLA Sagar Chand of Kathua, Mr Kashyap said there was no threat to the BSP. These ‘so called’ leaders were only after seats and had no will of selfless service to the people. They will be exposed in the coming elections. He said about a dozen such leaders in UP raised revolt before elections and formed parties and today they are no more. It happens everywhere before elections. So, there was no need to take them seriously, he maintained.

NPP files FIR against Mufti, Qarra

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: National Panthers Party (NPP) has filed an FIR against former Chief Minister Mufti Mohd Sayeed, his daughter Mehbooba Mufti and Tariq Hamid Qarra (Finance Minister), leaders of PDP before SP City (North) Jammu here today.

The case has been registered against these PDP leaders for non-cognizable offence under Section 120-A, under 120-B, 121, 124-A, 153 of Ranbir Penal Code, Jammu and Kashmir seeking immediate arrest and trial of the PDP leaders for waging war against Union of India.

Signed by vice chairman of the NPP, B B Kotwal advocate, the FIR was submitted before SP Jammu (North) today by Prof Bhim Singh, chairman of the Party.

BJP demands immediate release of remuneration to VDCs

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) today warned to launch agitation in case Government fails to release the remuneration of over 800 Village Defence Committee (VDC) members in Ramban, Doda and Kishtwar districts by the end of this month.

Announcing this at a press conference , here , today, BJP general secretary, Bali Bhagat said his Party can’t remain a mute spectator to the problems being faced by the VDCs in the three districts.

Maintaining that VDCs, SPOs and Ex-Servicemen were playing an important role along with security forces and police in fighting the terrorism in J&K, he alleged that the Congress led Government was unnecessarily harassing them by not paying wages in time.

He demanded that the monthly wages of Ex -Servicemen and SPOs be released in time and paid through banks. He also demanded formal sanction in favour of 735 VDCs who are not being paid even a single penny for the last so many years.

He accused the Chief Minister, Ghulam Nabi Azad for not fulfilling the promise made with the people of Kulhand on April 30, 2006 when 20 people were killed by terrorists in the village regarding recruitment of their next kin in Police Department, construction of motorable road and opening of an allopathic dispensary in the area.

Mr Bhagat demanded preparing of ration cards afresh in these three districts according to present population as thousands of families who were issued ration cards after 2001 were not being provided free ration as announced for the drought affected people of the area.

He demanded all education guarantee centers set up under SSA scheme in the State be clubbed with each other or primary schools and probe into back door appointments of accountants made by J&K Bank..

DDCs directed to fix prices
Govt bans import of essential
commodities to curb price rise

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: In order to check inflation and curb price rise of essential commodities, State Government has imposed ban on export of several eatables and directed all the District Development Commissioners to fix the prices in their respective districts.

In this regard, Khalid Habib, Secretary CAPD today convened a meeting with various officers including Director Horticulture (P&M), SSP Control Room and Deputy Controller Legal Metrology.

In the meeting, modalities for fixing the rates were discussed and it was decided to fix the wholesale rates on the pattern of HPMR Act, while retailers were allowed to add 40 per cent over wholesale prices that included 10 per cent profit and 30 per cent overhead expenditure including transportation and taxes.

It was also decided to set up a committee consisting of officers of HPMC, CAPD Department and representatives of traders to fix up the rates as per wholesale rates prevailing in the market.

Further, all the DDC’s were also directed to fix the prices with the help of committees constituted in their districts.

Meanwhile, the Government has imposed ban on export of food grains of all kinds, pulses, edible oil and seeds, desi ghee, vanaspati, milk powder and milk and also asked the wholesale dealers/ stockists to display the stock position of essential commodities.

Kashmir’s Solina yarn plant being revived: Taj

By Gopal Sharma

JAMMU, Apr 18 : Famous Solina yarn plant of Kashmir, a unique one in the northern region, will resume production from second week of next month after a long gap of nearly 18 years.

Talking to the Excelsior, Minister for Sheep, Animal Husbandry and CAPD, Taj Mohi-ud-Din disclosed that wool industry of Kashmir which faced the brunt of terrorism in the State in past two decades, was almost shifted to Amritsar and Ludhiana in Punjab with the passage of time. The coalition Government led by Ghulam Nabi Azad has now started a process to revive the almost dead wool industry in the State. Though a special package has been sought from the Centre for its revival but for making this Solina plant functional, some funds to the tune of Rs 20 lakh have been raised . The machinery will be repaired with an estimated cost of hardly Rs one lakh while the rest money will be utilised for overall modernisation and infrastructure development.

Mr Taj further said that famous Solina yarn plant, located in Rambagh area of Srinagar, which remained totally neglected in last about two decades after it was burnt by militants, was lying defunct for so many years. He claimed that with its revival, the wool industry in the State would get a big boost. He disclosed that the plant which was so far under the control of Jammu and Kashmir Industries (JKI) has now been handed over to the J&K Sheep and Wool Board. The plant has a capacity to produce 300 kg of yarn per day which can be utilized for manufacturing of crewel, handloom and other products.

Set up with the cost of Rs 5.5 crore in 1987 on 20 kanals of land and based on the European technology, this unit’s cost was recently evaluated as Rs 22 crore, excluding land. The State Government earlier decided for its auction but the Sheep and Wool Board took interest for its revival. He said over two thousand workers are directly or indirectly connected with it.

In response to another question, Minister said the plant imported from Poland , having four cards and 1200 swindles under one roof, is said to be the biggest one in the country and first of its kind in northern India. It would become operational by second week of May 2008. The repair and modernization work on this plant has already been started.

With its operation, a large number of locals will get job opportunity and the plant would meet the requirement of J&K Police, paramilitary forces and Tourism Department in the State besides making supplies to the hospitals of its wool products including blankets, he added.

PM, Sonia keen for development of J&K: Soz

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, Apr 18: Union Minister for Water Resources and State Congress President Saif-ud-din Soz has said that Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh and UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi are very keen for the peace, development and prosperity of the people of this State. He said they were actively considering to implement the recommendations of the various committees on Kashmir to bring more comfort and cheer in the lives of people.

Addressing a public meeting at Palpora, Srinagar today, the Minister said that apart from opening of Srinagar-Muzaffarabad road, some more measures are in the pipeline to facilitate transportation and trade relations with neighbouring country. He said a comprehensive plan has been formulated for beautification of the River Jehlum adding that the day was not far away when navigation transport would be restored in it from Khanabal to Khadiniyar. He said other water bodies in the State would also be taken care of in a phased manner.

Referring to the problems of the area, the Minister announced release of Rs. 20 lakh out of his MPLAD Fund for construction of drain and other development works in Palpora. Expressing concern over the dilapidated road condition, he said the matter would be taken up with the State Works Minister hoping that this problem would be addressed soon. Regarding drinking water problem, he said the concerned engineer would be asked to explore possibility for digging of tube well in the area to augment drinking water facility in the area. He asked the people to extend their co-operation for undertaking development in the State.

MLA Khem Lata Wakhloo and Congress leader Abdul Gani Khan also addressed the gathering.

Court passed strictures against IO

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: 2nd Additional Sessions Judge Jammu AK Koul has acquitted Surinder Singh alias Fouji alias Gogi R/o Barian, Udhampur who was arrested by the police on the allegation that accused was a member of Khalistan Zindabad Force and indulging in terrorist activities and passed strictures against the IO Amolak Singh.

While acquitting the accused 2nd Additional Sessions Judge AK Koul said that investigating agency, while seeking prosecution of the accused has demonstrated a very irresponsible and unreasonable approach.

The allegation of accused against police agency is that he was made the victim of Police Department officials. One of the serious charges against police is that the Investigating Officer Amolok Singh urinated on the face of accused. If believed to be true, it is really inhuman, the accused cried allowed about this but no gain and instead the accused made to face trial in a false and fabricated case for the long six years.

Court further said that ASI who had played the vital role in the entire episode is set to have retired since so it would be no gain to point out his irresponsible and unbecoming behaviour towards the accused. On could understand that an office of the rank of ASI would fail to perform his duty in accordance with law but agony in this case is that the higher police officials have also not bothered to see what is going on at their nose. Court further said that police is meant for protecting life and property of the people but this case is live example of abuse of powers.

According to the police case during investigation of FIR 75/2002 accused Surinder Singh alias Fouji alias Gogi r/o Udhampur made a disclosure statement that he had hidden AK-47 along with two magazines, pistol along with 2 magazines, pistol made in USA with one magazine, cartridges of AK-47, 40 in numbers, cartridges of pistol 16 in numbers, one cartridges of USA made pistol, fuse wire 6 feet, 2 batteries, 1 detonator, 2 hand grenades, 2 PTV watches and 5 KG RDX near the Tawi bridge and the items had been recovered. It was further submitted that accused had indulged in unlawful activities after having been thrown out of Army and was detained under PSA and also 11 cases were registered against him.

The Court in this judgment observed that if accused made a disclosure before his arrest in case FIR 75/2002 than the entire prosecution story is false because prosecution case is based on the fact that during the investigation of case of FIR 75/2002 accused made a disclosure and recovery was affected. On that disclosure, which led to registration of case under FIR 111/2002, if accused made a disclosure after his arrest in the FIR on October 14, 2002 than even the case is totally false that is so because accused had been arrested on October 14, 2002 and the disclosure in the instant case has been made on April 7, 2002. That means that disclosure in this case has been made six months prior to his arrest. That aspect of the case even though being very crucial has not been taken care of by the investigating agency or prosecution. This in a way way lends credence to the defence of accused that he was booked out of vengeance, although he was innocent and acquitted the accused from charges leveled against him.

Adbi Kunj releases Sehar Ganderbali’s Alfard-wa-Alqatar

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: Avtar Krishen Ganjoo’s (Sehar Ganderbali) book Alfard-wa-Alqatar in Urdu was released at a simple but impressive function organised by Adbi Kunj at Press Club, Jammu this afternoon.

The function was presided over by Padam Shree Mohammed Yousaf Taing, Ex Secretary, Cultural Academy and MLC while Prof. Zahoor -ud-Din former Head of Department Urdu, University of Jammu was the chief guest and Sham Sunder Lehar an eminent Urdu novelist and short story writer was the guest of honour.

In his welcome address, Sham Talib president of Adbi Kunj threw light on the activities of his organization. While giving account of the work done by Adbi Kunj in promoting creative literary activities in the State, he described today’s function as a part of the same crusade.

Talib Kashmiri, general secretary, Adbi Kunj and Susheel Begana, its secretary read papers on the book.

Lauding the role of Adbi Kunj, Mr M Y Teng, also appreciated Sehar Ganderbali for his latest book.

Both Prof. Zahoor-u-Din and S S Lehar highly acclaimed the author of Alfard-wa-Alqatar saying it was a commendable effort on the part of Sehar Ganderbali. They said the author has tried to project his views in a candid and forthright manner.

The vote of thanks was proposed by Nargis Sitara, vice president of the organization while the programme was compered by Talib Kashmiri.

AIKS’s concern over incidents of burglaries in temples

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: All India Kashmiri Samaj (AIKS) today took stock of the unfortunate incidents of thefts taking places in the shrines and temples in Kashmir valley.

The Samaj in a handout issued here today, has blamed coalition Governments at Centre and State for these unfortunate developments. It also expressed concern over the insensitivity of civil administration over such unfortunate and shameful incidents.

The handout said that Samaj after coming to know about the burglary in Shree Bhagawan Gopinathji Ashram at Kharyar Srinagar had deputed its general secretary, Shiban Duda to Kashmir Valley to ascertain the facts and Incharge SP Srinagar had assured him that police will swung into action to trace the burglars.

It said this unfortunate incident followed by another unfortunate incident of day light theft of an idol from a temple of Pandits at Fategarh Baramulla in north Kashmir. Few days prior to this incident the idol at a temple in Parihaspura, Pattan a heritage site has been stolen under similar circumstances, it added.

The statement said that it was the prime responsibility of J&K and Union Government to protect the shrines and properties of Pandits in Valley in which both the Governments have totally failed.

It said in context of that the KP organizations had drafted a bill for the protection and maintenance of temples of Kashmiri Pandits which the Congress led Government neither supported in the Assembly nor did it pass the said Bill in its own format, though promised by Chief Minister.

CD on Baba Kaliveer released

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: A video CD on the life and history of Baba Kaliveerji Maharaj was released in a function organised here the other day.

The CD prepared with the initiative of Shri Kaliveer Charitable Trust, Sunjuwan, headed by leading J&K High Court lawyer, DC Raina.

Minister for Health and Medical Education, Mangat Ram Sharma, Minister for Higher Education, Gulchain Singh Charak, Dr Karan Singh (MP) and Mayor Jammu Municipal Corporation, Kavinder Gupta, who were the special guests at the function, released the CD.

Several devotees of Baba Kaliveerji Maharaj were also present in the function. Chairman of the Trust, D C Raina extended gratitude to the special guests for sparing time to grace the occasion. Om Goswami, president and Chander Raina, secretary also spoke on the occasion. Renowned singer Satpaul Sharma of Jammu has contributed a lot in preparing the CD alongwith others.

Khour block moving towards prosperity: Tara Chand

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: Speaker Legislative Assembly, Tara Chand has said that Khour block is marching towards prosperity as massive development has been registered in all sectors during the last five years.

The Speaker was addressing a large gathering of people at village Pahariwala in Khour block today.

While highlighting the achievements of Government, Speaker said that the people friendly policies of Government have been well acknowledged by all sections of the society.

While cautioning the workers against the indiscipline in the party, Mr. Tara Chand said that discipline, secularism, communal harmony which are basic ingredients of the party have to be maintained at all costs. He asked the Congress workers to reach out the common man and make them aware about the policies and programmes of the Government.

Speaker said that important sectors like road connectivity, education, power and healthcare have received focused attention of the Government and lot of work has been done in these sectors.

He apprised the gathering that to meet the increased power requirement in the Khour block a separate grid station at a cost of Rs. 30 lakh is in progress at Kaleeth and this project would be completed during this year.

On the public demand, Speaker announced construction of link road from Pahariwala to Kote Maira. He issued instructions to the officers for taking up the work immediately.

Various prominent leaders of the area including Suram Singh, Milkhi Ram, Madan Lal Sharma also addressed the gathering.

Div Com flags off Heritage rally at Srinagar

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, Apr 18: Department of Archives, Archaeology and Museums, Kashmir organized a Heritage Rally, which was participated by 400 students of Girls Higher Secondary School, Kothibagh and New Era Public School also. The rally was organized in connection with celebrations of World Heritage Day which is celebrated throughout the State. The rally was flagged off by the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Mehboob Iqbal at Kothibagh Girls Higher Secondary School. Deputy Director Archives, Archaeology and Museums was also present on the occasion.

The students rally from Kothibagh proceeded towards TRC via Lal Chowk and Polo View where from students were taken to various monuments of the Srinagar city, which included Pari Mahal and Harwan Archaeological sites and were briefed about the historical and archaeological significance of these sites.

The Divisional Commiss-ioner while flagging off the rally impressed upon the students to play their role in preserving and promoting the heritages of the glorious land, which depicts the composite culture of the State including Ashoka, Lalitaditya, Sultan Zain-ul-Abdin, Shuhab-Din etc.

He said the main objective of conducting such rally was to create heritage awareness among the students and asked the concerned to organize such programmes in future also.

Exam of PhD scholar in USA
conducted via video conferencing

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: For the first time in the history of University of Jammu (JU), the viva-voce examination of a Ph.D scholar, sitting thousand miles away in United States, was conducted by using video-conferencing technology, here today.

The viva-voice examination of Audesh Kumar, a Biotechnology scholar, was conducted this morning by a three-member team of examiners including Prof A J S Bhanwar from Guru Nanak Dev University, Amritsar as external examiner and two supervisors of the scholar namely Prof R N K Bamezai from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi and Prof Manoj Dhar, HoD Biotechnology, JU.

The scholar, currently pursuing Post Doctoral Fellowship at Washington University in St. Louis, had worked on the topic "Genetic Diversity and Susceptibility Towards Type-II Diabetes in Some Population Groups of J&K" in two-phase study during his Ph.D and submitted thesis in the mid of last year.

Talking to the EXCELSIOR, Prof Deshbandhu, Controller Examination, who mooted the idea of viva-voice through video conferencing, apprised that Audesh Bhat had got Post-Doctoral Scholarship in Washington University on short term basis and was told to confirm the completion of the qualifying degree, which was not possible without viva-voice.

"The scholar was in dire need for the degree and matter came into notice of Vice Chancellor, Prof Amitabh Mattoo through an e-mail. He immediately called me and I suggested this idea to save the career of our bright scholar, as university was having this facility", Prof Deshbandhu told.

He informed that JU has joined the selected league of Indian universities which had conducted the examination through this technology.

Meanwhile, during the examination, which lasted for over two hours, the team of examiners posed several questions related to the candidate virtually sitting in front of them. The questionnaire was followed by a presentation by the examinee and an interactive session between him and the scholars and students of Biotechnology. Faculty members of Biotechnology Department were also sitting at this end.

Association of Industries’ plea to PM, Sonia

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: Association of Industries (Samba) has urged the Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Finance Minister P. Chidambaram to review Union Government’s decision regarding withdrawal of Central Excise incentives offered to industries in J&K State.

In a joint press statement issued here today, the Association president Vijay Aggarwal and general secretary, Kuldip Jamwal said that this move of the Union Government has caused a major set back to the growth of industry in the J&K State which was witnessed for the first time after the independence. They said this decision has shattered the confidence of the investors from outside as well as from the State.

They pointed out that at IGS Samba, there are 112 local and 127 industrial units set up by outsiders. The infrastructure has been developed by SIDCO. These units have the potential of nearly 13,600 workers and feeding nearly 70,000 souls. With this decision, the future of these 70,000 souls has been thrown to darkness.

The Association leaders further said that the units which are already in the pipe line have withdrawn their proposals. He said the current notification will lead to further inflation as industry was passing the benefits to the ultimate customers. They claimed that investment of nearly Rs 2100 crore is in danger. The Government has midway backed out by announcing withdrawal of concession. They appealed the Prime Minister, UPA chairperson and the Finance Minister to review the decision.

Govt responsible for miseries of border people: Ganai

Excelsior Correspondent

POONCH, Apr 18: National Conference leader Dr Shanaz Ganai today lashed out at coalition Government in the State for not paying any heed to problems of the people residing in remote and border areas.

Addressing the people during her extensive tour of Mandi block, Dr Ganai asked the people to give befitting reply in the coming elections to those people who discriminated with poor and down trodden people of border areas.

She alleged that pace of development was slow here and Government was only giving cosmetic touch in the name of development and people were being deprived of basic amenities like water, electricity and essential commodities.

She also lamented the Government for leaving the earthquake victims of Poonch high and dry and termed it as regional biasedness.

Condemning the Gover-nment order for raising basic education as matric for class-IV vacancies, Dr Ganai said this policy would deprive the youth of rural areas from employment.

She, however, asked the people to remain united and fight for their demands.

Janata Dal rejects PDP's proposals

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: Taking a dim view of the former Chief Minister, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed's advocacy for giving way to usage of Pakistani currency in this part of Jammu and Kashmir, the State unit of Janata Dal (Secular) today outrightly rejected the idea and termed it as impracticable.

Addressing a press conference here today, vice president of the party, Tirath Singh said that it would be against our entire country as a nation and will open gates for hostile neighbouring countries to intrude into our internal affairs.

He also criticized president of People's Dermocratic Party (PDP), Mehbooba Mufti for her controversial comments in recently held Pugwash Conference wherein she had professed "dual control" over the entire State.

Meanwhile, the leader demanded for settlement of problems being faced by Pok refugees, who have been clamouring for the last over sixty years for relief and respectable settlement. He pressed upon Government to concede their demands before the start of ensuing Assembly elections.

Among others who were present in the press conference included president of the party, Dhanraj Bargotra, Beant Singh, Sardar Netar Singh, Ragveer Singh, Swaran Singh, Bagwati Sharan and Swaran Singh.

AIKHF elects office bearers

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: All India Kashmiri Hindu Forum (AIKHF) today held a meeting at party headquarters under the chairmanship of Rattan Lal Bhan to elect the new office bearers.

Purnima Bhan Vaishnavi was elected as the president of Ladies Wing while N N Dhar, G L Dogra and I K Mattoo were nominated as vice president and general secretaries respectively.

M K Khashoo was elected as Treasurer while Sanjeev Bhan and Sham Lal Bhat were elected as chief organizer and organizer respectively.

Chaman Lal Zutshi and Ravi Jamwal were elected as secretary and president, youth wing respectively.

Forum chief Rattan Lal Bhan urged the Government to take immediate steps in mitigate the sufferings of displaced people.

Dr Purnima Bhan Vaishnavi said the policies of Government on the return of exiled Hindus lack imagination, understanding and feeling. She urged the Government to tackle the problem practically and sincerely. The meeting decided that the Forum will contest the ensuing Assembly elections in the State.

Health, Medical Education employees’
strike enters 5th consecutive day

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: The strike of consolidated , contractual and adhoc employees of Health and Medical Education Department entered the 5th consecutive day, today. The employees staged rallies and demonstrations in the Government Medical College (GMC) Jammu to express their resentment against the Government’s failure in conceding the demands.

The All Consolidated, Contractual and Adhoc Employees Association which is spearheading the agitation has criticized the Health and Medical Education Minister, Mangat Ram Sharma and authorities of the Department for their failure in implementing the agreement reached between Government and Association office bearers on March 19 this year.

The Association, while deciding to continue its agitation resolved to take out a rally from GMC Jammu to Chief Minister’s residence tomorrow. It in an appeal to the employees asked them to participate in the rally.

Those who addresed today’s demonstration included Pardeep Kumar Sharma president, JKMEA, Sushil Sudan, president JKMEF, Vinod Kumar Sharma, general secretary, JKMEF, Parshotam Chib, president Government Ranbir Press, Prem Paul Singh, president JKEW Federation, Mrs Krishna Devi Staff Nurse C D Hospital and Gharu Ram president of the Association.

Clerical staff continue strike, warn to intensify agitation

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: Continuing the second phase of Kam Chodo Hartal, the activists and central committee members of Jammu Kashmir and Ladakh All Departments Clerical Staff Association held a demonstration here on the 23rd day of the strike today against the non implementation of agreement reached between Government and the Association on March 10 this year.

Addressing the demonstrators, Ram Kumar Sharma , coordinator of the Association, Rehmat Ullah Malik its convenor, Ravi Singh Bahu, secretary, Anil Kumar Mehta, joint secretary, R P Sharma, chief organizer, Bashir Malik and Sayeeda Bano organizers, Sukhbir Singh and Ravi Razdan, publicity Secretaries, Ravi Kumar, treasurer and other leaders strongly condemned the attitude of the Government by not implementing its agreement in letter and spirit to remove the pay anomalies and exemption of secretariat training course exams.

The Executive members also held a meeting under the chairmanship of Ram Kumar Sharma to discuss the ongoing Kam Chodo Hartal and attitude of the Government towards the employees demand. It decided that the clerical staff will hold rallies and demonstrations in various tehsil and district headquarters on April 19 and 22.

In Jammu city the striking clerical staff will hold rallies and demonstrations in three zones, it added.

The meeting urged the Government to implement its agreement failing which the Association will be left with no alternative but to intensify its agitation. It also urged the employees and workers organization to remain united and fight against anti working class policies of the Government.

Micky visits Darhal

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: Arvinder Singh "Micky", MLC and chairman, J&K Minority Cell of the Congress party paid a visit to far-flung Darhal area of Rajouri district and participated in the convention of Congress workers.

Addressing the convention, Mr Arvinder Singh highlighted the achievements of the present State Government which is taking interest in infrastructure development, upliftment of backward sections of society and people in far-flung areas. He said the Chief Minister, Ghulam Nabi Azad is personally monitoring the pace of development works in Jammu and Kashmir.

He assured to take up the problems of the people and get these redressed by the State Government authorities.

Congress leaders, Zahid Malik and Capt Mohamad Azim addressed the gathering. Others, who spoke at the convention included Baljit Manhas, Ashwani Puri, Lalit Gupta and Mohammad Shafi Khan.

Celebrations of Veer Hanuman Jayanti begins

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: Three day long celebrations of Veer Hanuman Jayanti today began at Parachin Hanuman Mandir at Moti Bazar on the City.

The celebrations started with the ‘pujan’ of Lord Hanuman ji and reciting of Ramcharit Manas by Subash Shastri.

Akhand Ramayan Path will conclude on April 19 at 12.30 pm. Havan will begin at 10 am on April 20 and conclude with Puran Ahuti at 12 noon followed by Aarti and a grand bhandara .

Bhajan Sandya will be held on April 30 at 8 pm in which renowned artists will sing devotional songs.

This was disclosed by Pandit Dushyant Sharma, Head Priest, Shri Hanuman Ji Temple, Moti Bazar.

7-day long Bhagwad Saptah begins

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: The seven- day long Shrimad Bhagwad Saptah started at Radha Krishen temple, Darmal, Barnai near here, today under the guidance of Swami Danish Bharti.

A large number of devotees drawn from the adjoining villages and colonies attended the function. BJP State secretary, Yudhvir Sethi was the chief guest while Corporator and BJP Cow Protection Cell president, Omi Khajuria was the guest of honour on the occasion.

Addressing the function, Swami Dinesh Bharti said the main objective of organizing this Bhagwad Saptah is to make Hindus aware about significance of Ram Setu and need to get united to defeat the anti Hindu policies of Congress Government.

He alleged that Congress Government has hurt the sentiments of Hindus across the world by questioning the existence of Ram Setu. The Sadhu Samaj will reach Hindus and appeal them to get united for their honour and dignity, he added.

Pradesh Youth Congress nominates office bearers

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: A meeting of the Pradesh Youth Congress was held under the chairmanship of its national general secretary, Sheikh Mastan Wali and attended by Pradesh Youth Congress president, Mohd Amin Bhat, MLC, and some other youth leaders.

In the meeting various office-bearers were appointed for incharge programme, membership drive and format for several districts.

For Rajouri and Poonch districts, PYC vice presidents Rajesh Sharma and Manmohan Singh were made incharge respectively. Incharge for Reasi district were Ravi Slathia (spokesman, general secretary) and Sanjay Sahani (vice-president/ incharge headquarters).

Incharge for Udhampur district were Pawan Raina (vice president) and Manjeet Singh Jat and for Kathua district, Nirdosh Sharma and Pankaj Chibber have been selected.

For Samba and Jammu Rural, Rajinder Singh, Tirath Bhagat and Chandram Singh were made incharge. While for Jammu Urban, Pawan Raina was included as office-bearer. For Doda, Kishtwar and Ramban, Payare Lal Shan and Salim Tariq were included.

Anoop Khajuria has been made office secretary incharge programme. As per release, it was decided in the meeting to close membership drive before 27th of this month.

Bhalla inspects works at Gangyal, Trikuta Nagar

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Apr 18: MLA Gandhi Nagar inspected development works in Trikuta Nagar Extension, Gangyal and Ekta Vihar area here today.

Accompanied by officers from Power Development Department (PDD), PHE and Jammu Municipal Corporation, Mr Bhalla inspected works related to water supply, electricity and construction of lanes and drains. At Parveen Colony in Trikuta Nagar, he addressed a public meeting and listened to the local problems. The residents demanded upgradation of electric transformer and construction of kacha lanes besides deployment of Safai Karamcharis. He issued instructions to the concerned officers on the spot. He also offered funds for it.

Mr Bhalla also paid visit to Govindpur, Kullian and Chatha and reviewed several development works. He said that Azad Government was committed to the overall development and many works were going on around the state. He said several beautification projects have also been initiated in and around Jammu.