Red Cross Council meets
Governor names nodal agency for
combating road accidents

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, May 8 : Governor Lt. Gen (Retd) S K Sinha today named the State Red Cross Society as a nodal agency for coordinating between various agencies to curb the menace of road accidents in Jammu and Kashmir.

Addressing General Council meeting of the State Red Cross here this morning, the Governor said that the proposed nodal agency will come up with a road map for combating this menace by this year end or early next year. It will precede seminars and a series of interactive sessions with the civil society before formulating a realistic plan, he added.

The Governor lamented the growing number of road accidents and said that deaths on roads are perhaps more than the causalities caused due to militants’ violence. He envisioned a mechanism of having first aid centres equipped with ambulances and wireless communication network right from Pathankote to Uri for responding to the needs of accident victims.

About reducing the number of accidents, he called for a multidimensional approach by various agencies like Public Works, Transport, Traffic Health and Police. The Red Cross can play a catalyst role in bringing about synergy between these organizations in the overall interest of road users. The civil society will also be involved in this effort in a big way, General Sinha added.

Giving historical overview of the Red Cross, the Governor said that its activities expanded from looking after the wounded persons during wars to the prisoners of war and to the sufferers of natural calamities. He hoped that its activities will further expand with active support of Governments and philanthropic organizations. In this context he also made a mention of Private Public Participation (PPP) and support of private sector in carrying forward the mission of Red Cross movement.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Health, Mangat Ram Sharma lauded the role of Red Cross in coming to the rescue of the people at the hour of need. He called for greater coordination between various agencies to strengthen the Red Cross movement in the State.

Later, Secretary General of the State Red Cross, G J Nahvi put the agenda points for discussion.

Chief Secretary, B R Kundal, Director General of Police, Kuldeep Khoda, Principal Secretary to Governor, Dr Arun Kumar. Principal Secretary Finance, B B Vyas, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Sudanshu Pandey, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Mehboob Iqbal, all the Deputy Commissioners and members of the council were present in the meeting.

Out of turn promotion for 20 officials
Graph of violence coming down fast: Khoda

Excelsior Correspondent

Srinagar May 8 : Director General of Police, Kuldeep Khoda today issued orders for out of turn promotion in favour of twenty officials of the Jammu and Kashmir Police comprising thirteen constables promoted as Selection Grade Constables (Sgcts), six Selection Grade Constables (Sgcts) promoted as Head Constables and one Assistant Sub Inspector (ASI) as Sub Inspector.

These promotions were ordered in recognition of the exemplary manner in which the State police is tackling militancy and protecting life and property of people of the State. The Jammu and Kashmir Police has made supreme sacrifices during 19 years of militancy and lost more than 1400 brave officers and men. The DGP while ordering promotions emphasized that the people have tremendous hardships during the militancy, it is the broaden duty of every police man to rise to the occasion to bring peace to the strife torn land. Mr. Khoda asked the officers and jawans to put in head and heart for better excellence and render their duty as best possible.

He said "in the militancy related incidents, a large number of top foreign mercenaries and local terrorists were eliminated in different militancy related operations across the State since January this year".

Mr. Khoda said that Jammu and Kashmir Police was determent to fight militancy at all fronts and restore peace and normalcy in the State. "Much has been done and more remains to be done and we have to keep ourselves ready to make any sacrifice in protecting life and property of people", "my earnest endeavor will be to ensure welfare and well being of all the members of force, their families and dependents", he asserted.

He said "in the first four months of this year the incidents have come down to 215 in comparison to 315 of the corresponding period last year. However, notable achievement has been the drastic fall in the civilian casualties which have come down to 25 from 58 last year. The terrorists killed during first four months of this year is 108 compared to 114 last year and causalities of police and security forces have come down to 19 from 37 during first four months of the last year".

3 ITI diploma holders jump into river

SRINAGAR, May 8: Three Industrial Training Institute (ITI) diploma holders jumped into river Jehlum and six others were injured after police resorted to baton charge to disperse them near here this afternoon.

Hundreds of ITI trained diploma holders today took to streets in the summer Capital in support of their demands.

However, when they were marching towards the Civil Secretariat, police stopped them near Budshah bridge. When they refused to disperse and insisted that they should be allowed to move forward, police resorted to lathicharge.

Three diploma holders jumped into river Jehlum who were later saved from drowning. They were later taken into custody.

Official sources said about six others were injured in the police action. A number of others were also arrested by the police.

We now want to end our lives since we have no reason to remain alive, the diploma holders said during the demonstrations.

A police official was also injured in the incident.

They alleged that despite repeated assurances by the Government, they were not provided jobs.

The diploma holders working on daily wages in the Public Health Engineering (PHE) and other departments were not being paid salaries for the past one year and their services were also not been regularised.

Meanwhile, state secretary of the Communist Party of India (M) Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami strongly condemned the police excesses on protesting ITI crash course diploma holders.

Terming the police action as unfortunate, Mr Targami said while the Government was claiming to recruit 70,000 youth in various departments, these ITI diploma holders engaged in various departments on temporary basis have not been paid their wages for last 18 months forcing them to resort to extreme steps.

This amounts to violation of basic Human Rights.

Mr Tarigami urged upon the Government to stop the use of such authoritarian methods against peaceful demonstrations.(UNI)

Padha elected President of Journalists Guild

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 8: Journalists Guild (Jammu), a society of young and progressive journalists, today held its general body meeting under the leadership of Manish Sahni, vice president.

In the meeting, it was unanimously decided by all the members to declare Devender Padha as President of the guild, while Govind Chouhan was declared Incharge for Rural bodies.

Chouhan was assigned with the task to frame bodies at all the district levels. It was also decided to widen the horizon of guild’s activities in coming days besides, discussing future strategies.

Among those who attended the meeting included Vikas Sharma, Rajesh Dutta (publicity secretary), Arteev Sharma (secretary), Mohinder Sharma (organizer), Pankaj Sagar, Bharat Bhushan, Ajit Singh and Ajay.

Clerical cadre employees organise large rally
* Strike extended upto May 15

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 8: Clerical cadre employees organised a large rally outside the office of Divisional Commissioner, at Panjtirthi here in support of their demand.

On the 43rd consecutive day of the strike, employees under the banner of Jammu, Kashmir & Ladakh All Departments Clerical Staff Association held massive demonstration and organised rally at Panjtirthi. Later, they sat on day- long dharna outside the office of Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Sudhanshu Pandey.

The agitating employees raised slogans against the State authorities for causing delay in the redressal of their demand of removal of anomalies in their pay grades. The employees are demanding hike in the grades of junior, senior and head assistants besides junior stenographers and statistical assistants. They are also demanding that senior assistants be exempted from the Secretariat training bar for the next promotion for the post of head assistants.

Several senior leaders of the employees association, namely Rehmat Ullah Malik, R P Sharma, C L Koul. Ravi Singh, Anil Kumar , Ravi Razdan, Sukhbir Singh and others addressed the gathering. They criticised the Government for causing delay in resolving the issue.

Later, the central body of the Association in a meeting held today resolved to extend strike upto May 15 as the Government has remained unmoved with the ongoing agitation of the employees for the last over 43 days. ‘Kam Chhor Hartal’ of the employees remained in all the districts and tehsil offices of the State Government.

In Poonch town, a large rally was also organised at fort building under the leadership of Mohd Bashir Mir.

Meanwhile, Jammu Kashmir Medical Employees Federation has decided to observe one day strike on May 10 in support of agitating clerical cadre. Sushil Sudan, president of the organisation urged the Government to negotiate with the agitating clerical cadre employees. J&K Govt Employees and Workers Federation has also extended full support to the strike of clerical staff. Its leaders condemned the anti-employee attitude of the government.

Medical Officer placed under suspension

Excelsior Correspondent

RAJOURI, May 8: Dr Ghulam Ahmed, Assistant Surgeon, Primary Health Centre Lah, in district Rajouri was placed under suspension today.

According to Director Health Services Jammu, the Medical Officer was found absent from duty for the last few days. He shall remain attached with the Block Medical Officer, Darhal during his suspension period.

The Director also served notices to Dr Vinod Raina ( Assistant Surgeon) and X-Ray Technician Ravinder Bhat for remaining absent from

duty. They were directed to explain their position within one day, failing which action as warranted under rules shall be taken against them.

March Session in higher education in offing: Charak

Excelsior Correspondent

Srinagar, May 8 : The November Session in higher education is giving way to the March academic session in Kashmir valley making it at par with rest of the country in respect of the conduct of examinations and holding of academic classes. Recommendations to this effect have been made by the Committee of experts headed by former Vice Chancellor, Kashmir University, Professor Abdul Wahid after threadbare discussion in a workshop organized here.

The report of the workshop on "quality assurance in higher education" was today presented to the Minister for Higher Education Gulchain Singh Charak at Amar Singh College here in a jam-packed press conference.

The recommendations seek switching over to March session in the Valley bringing it at par with the rest of the country and ensuring minimum 180 teaching days along with other suggestions pertaining to student-staff ratio, infrastructure facilities and consolidation in higher education sector.

In order to achieve the objective, experts have suggested conduct of examinations in higher education along with evaluation and results between February 15 April 20. The admission to various classes from April 21 to April 30, commencement of class work from May 1 and its completion by December 31. The winter break has been suggested between January 1 to February 14. The Committee has recommended 1st semester of each year from May 1 to August 7, and examination along with evaluation between August 16 to August 31. The second semester has been suggested from September 1 to December end.

The Committee comprising of former Chairman Board of School Education, Prof. M. A. Charoo Prof. G. A. Dar, Prof. M. Ismail, Prof. S. G. Sarwar and Prof. A. G. Madhosh headed by former Vice Chancellor Kashmir University consulted 100 reputed educationists to ascertain their views to this regard.

In a Jam-packed media conference Mr. Charak unveiled the important aspects of new higher education policy saying that the reports received from the two Committees from Jammu and Kashmir divisions would be given due weightage to translate these into action and making part of new education policy.

The Secretary Higher Education Khazir Mohammad Wani while replying to certain queries of media persons said that the education sector was receiving four times more funding under 11th Plan and the grants to this sector had gone up from 7.7 percent to 19 per cent. "This is historic opportunity to strengthen the sector and achieve the goals set for realizing quality education in the State alongwith its universalization".

He said the two B.Ed colleges in Government sector, one each at Srinagar and Jammu, with intake capacity of only 900 teachers, were not able to suffice the increasing requirement for teachers training. "Public-private participation and involvement of private sector to achieve the objective of training about 1.13 lakh teachers, of which only 40 percent are trained, is imperative", he said adding that presently 144 B.Ed colleges were functioning in the private sector and the role of education department was now a facilitator rather than regulator.

CB challans 2 storekeepers

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 8: Crime Branch, Jammu today produced challan against Bankey Ram of Batal Ballian, Udhampur and Jermaiz Singh of Logate Kathua, both the then storekeepers, Udhampur under Sections 409, 420, 467, 468, 471 and 218 RPC.

A handout said that during questioning, Tehsil Supply Officer, Mongri, Mela Ram had disclosed that the two storekeepers of Food Store CAPD Udhampur had made false remittance with regard to atta and wheat consignment on the name of Shamboo Nath, dealer of sale centre Ladda No. 1. The dealer had not lifted the ration consignment against false remittance in his name.

During investigations, original record was obtained from Direction office of CAPD Jammu and was seized. The record pertaining to issuance of consignment in question was also seized from Assistant Director CAPD Udhampur/TSO Rural Udhampur. Specimen signatures of the perpetrator were got chemically examined through FSL Jammu and expert opinion was obtained.

Statements of Shamboo Nath, dealer, Kuldeep Mohan and Mela Ram, TSOs were got recorded.

During investigations, the charges were established against the two storekeepers which caused huge loss to the State exchequer and wrongful gain to them for which they have been challaned in the court of law for judicial determination.

Most of CMP commitments fulfilled: Taj

Excelsior Correspondent

Srinagar, May 8 : Minister for Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution (CAPD) Taj Mohi-ud-Din has said that Government not only fulfilled the commitments made with the electorates under Common Minimum Programme but went far ahead in this regard. He said that the present Government almost transformed overall developmental scenario in the State and ushered in a new phase of infrastructure development.

Addressing a public meeting at Sumbal Sonawari on Thursday, Mr. Taj said that "special thrust has been paid towards the overall development of rural and hilly areas hitherto neglected". "Had previous Government’s paid heed towards the development of these areas the situation would have not been so demanding", he added.

Mr. Taj said since the present Government took over focused attention had been paid towards the improvement of basic amenities across the State.

Highlighting the achievements registered by the Government, Mr. Taj said that road connectivity and education sector got fillip along with other public service sectors. He said strenuous efforts had been made to complete projects on fast track.

He said that the SDtate witnessed massive developmental activities in all major development sectors including railway and power generation, drinking water supply, upgradation of healthcare etc. He also deliberated on the creation of new administrative units and the implementation of historic Roshni Act.

Cautioning people against selfish elements, Mr. Taj asked them to remain vigilant about the designs of these elements.

MLA Mrs. Khem Lata Wakhloo, former MLA Ghulam Rasool Kar and advocate Muzaffar Ahmad Paray, Ghulam Hassan Dar and S. Channi Singh also addressed on the occasion and highlighted the achievements registered in the State by Azad led Government.

ICDS Supervisors allege discrimination

Excelsior Correspondent

POONCH, May 8: Supervisors of ICDS in district Poonch have alleged step motherly treatment being meted out to them as the cadre has not got any hike in rank and perks for the last over 20 years.

In a meeting of supervisors, senior supervisor Ram Pyari said that despite acquiring job training and higher qualification they are being ignored in the departmental promotions whereas untrained junior craft teachers and social workers have been promoted by the department.

The supervisors in one voice demanded immediate removal of pay anomalies and promotions to the supervisors having completed five years of services and stoppage to all departmental promotions until supervisors of ICDS are considered.

They also appealed to Chief Minister to personally intervene into the matter to get it solved. Speakers were T N Kazmi, Najama Bukhari, Singeeta Muttu and Amrit Devi Zereena.

Fast-track infrastructure development
yielding results: Vakil

Excelsior Correspondent

Srinagar, May 8: Minister for Social Welfare Abdul Gani Vakil has said that unprecedented development carried out in all sectors with liberal financial support from Centre was sure to transform socio-economic profile of the State. "In fact, it has already started yielding desirable results" he added.

He was addressing a public meeting at Vijpara in Hajan today. Former Minister and MLC Mohammad Sharief Niaz, Minister of State for Agriculture Ch. Gharu Ram, President Youth Congress and MLC Mohammad Amin Bhat were present on the occasion.

Giving full credit to Central Government for opening Jhelum valley and Poonch Rawalakote road links, the Minister said that the bus service would shortly operate on weekly basis in line with aspirations of divided families. He said trade and tourism would also start through these routes soon.

Downplaying the claims of certain political outfits that they were instrumental in initiating confidence building measures, he said "regional parties and even State Governments have little role on external subjects.

This is solely a Central subject and dealt under foreign policy of the country". He said UPA chairperson and Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh were actual architects of thaw in Indo-Pak relations and initiating confidence building measures.

Mohammad Sharief Niaz, speaking on the occasion said that Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad was keen to put in place fast-track recruitment process in a bid to address unemployment problem. For the purpose SSRB and other agencies were being equipped with adequate manpower, he said and added that those highlighting unemployment issue day on and day out were in fact creators of the problem.

Gharu Ram and Mohammed Amin Bhat also spoke on the occasion.

Connectivity in Ladakh on focus: Jugal

Excelsior Correspondent

Leh, May 8: The Government under the stewardship of Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad is committed for spectacular development in Ladakh.

This was said by the Minister for Roads and Buildings Jugal Kishore Sharma while inaugurating a 8.5 km long Kuzay-Sptuk Farka road today. This road was upgraded at a cost of Rs.1.52 crore under NABARD scheme.

Speaking at a large gathering at Zamchung, Mr. Jugal Kishore said that a spectacular development has been registered be it in construction or upgradation of roads and bridges but in other spheres of life also.

He said that it was the present Government which has opened 10 higher secondary schools during last five and half years of tenure while as it was only five earlier.

The Industries and Commerce Minister Nawang Rigzin Jora who also spoke on the occasion said that along pending demand of upgradation of Chushot internal road has been fulfilled and tender has been called out for its upgradation work.

Among others present on the occasion were MLC P. Namgyal, Councilors Mohammad Shafi Lassu. Ghulam Abas Abidi, Gh.Sayeedin etc.

Deputy Commissioner Leh Dr. Bhandari, SE, PWD, MC Bhagat, Project Director DRDA Ali Raza and the district officers also were present on the occasion.

2-day long Ram Katha concludes at Yogeshwar Mandir

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 8: The two-day long Ram Katha concluded at Yogeshwar Mandir, Lower Dogra Hall here, today. A large number of devotees including Sadhus drawn from different areas participated in the religious function.

The Ram Katha, which started yesterday was delivered by renowned Katha Wachak Sat Paul Bali Ji. He threw light on the life and teachings of Lord Ram.

The sermons were also delivered by Mahant Mandleshwar Swami Ranweshwar Dass Ji Mahraj, Mahant of Purani Mandi Temple, among the Sangat. He stressed on holding of such religious functions for promotion of peace, tranquillity brotherhood and spirit of humanity.

Swami Ji said organizing the Ramayan Katha and Krishen Leela not only leads to prevalence of peace but can also rid the mankind of worries and problems.

The Puranahuti was performed by Kavinder Gupta, Mayor JMC and Yudhvir Sethi, secretary BJP. The duo were honoured by Mahant Yogeshwar Dass Ji.

Others who attended the function included N D Rajwal, Priya Sethi, Pawan Pandoh all corporators, Dharni Dhar Sharma and Dinesh Gupta.

The Ram Katha started with a hawan and concluded with Akahand Bhandara.

Govt to consider relief to ban affected
transporters: Hakeem

Excelsior Correspondent

Srinagar, May 8: Minister for Transport Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen has said that Government would take every step to provide succour to those transporters of the State who have been affected adversely by Government’s decision of imposing ban on vehicles plying on roads for more than 25 years.

Addressing a function organized by the Kashmir Transporters Welfare Association (KTWA) on Thursday, Hakeem Yaseen said Government is determined to strengthen the transport industry in the State besides implementing the court directions in letter and spirit to curb problems faced by the industry.

Describing transport industry as backbone of the State’s economy, Yaseen said that Government proposes to develop the industry to make it sustainable for providing job opportunities to the unemployed youth of the State. He said Government is committed to provide timely and comfortable transport services to the people of the State, adding that for the purpose, regulation of traffic system would be streamlined.

The Minister asked the management of KTWA and KMDA to provide regular and comfortable passenger services to the commuters of the Valley and added that Government proposes to develop and renovate all the bus stands across the State with latest facilities. He said more bus stops would be identified in the Srinagar city to stave off unnecessary traffic jams. He stressed for operating additional services during peak hours to facilitate the movement of employees, students and traders.

Transport Minister said that Government would consider sympathetically hike in fare of passenger services in the State keeping in view the demand of the transporters and cost escalation. He said the matter is already under consideration of the high power committee constituted by the Government for the purpose. He assured that more staff would be posted in the office of RTO Kashmir and ARTO offices to facilitate the transporters.

District Development Commissioner Srinagar, Managing Director SRTC, Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Committee, Joint Transport Commissioner, RTO Kashmir, Additional Secretary Transport besides representatives of KTWA and KMDA were also present.

Ex-servicemen league holds meet

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 8: The ex-policemen today started the functioning of newly constituted Ex-servicemen League office at Gandhi Nagar.

As per the press note, the league has requested all the retirees to share their genuine grievances and come personally from Monday to Thursday during office hours. The decision was taken in a meeting held under the chairmanship of K S Samyal.

CM misleads people over refugees’ issue: Chuni

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 8: Expressing surprise over the recent statement of the Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad during a function at Abhinav theatre here, chairman of the SOS-International Rajiv Chuni has alleged that Azad Government has failed to address the problems of the refugees and now Mr Azad was trying to provide the cover up to his failures.

Addressing a press conference here today, Mr Chuni said that Chief Minister has been baffled over the issue and Congress has now realised its mistake by hurting the sentiments of over 15 lakh refugees by ignoring them while announcing the additional Rs 1600 crore package in favour of Kashmiri migrants.

The refugee leader alleged that Chief Minister was trying to mislead the people in public meeting and it is surprising that only Azad and nobody else is hailing the Rs 50 crore package for refugees. Not even a Minister or Legislator welcomed this package, how one can expect that package was up to the satisfaction of the refugees community or the people in general.

He declared that refugees want only comprehensive settlement and nothing less was acceptable to them. Chuni said PoK refugees left behind their movable and immovable properties and were not compensated till date. He said the Government has spent more than Rs 6600 crore on Valley migrants in last 19 years and the PoK refugees have not got anything. The refugees can not be befooled any more and they will continue their fight for justice.

Mr Chuni said why Government was sitting on Wadhwa Committee Report despite the fact that its chairman has submitted the report with recommendations. He said organisation would launch door-to-door campaign throughout the region to create awareness among the general masses about sad plight of the PoK refugees and the deceitful policies of the Government.

CBMs initiated by PDP brought peace: Zargar

Excelsior Correspondent

REASI, May 8: Minister for Agriculture, Sericulture and Cooperatives Abdul Aziz Zargar today said that confidence building measures initiated by People's Democratic Party has brought peace in J&K.

He congratulated people of Reasi for according district status to Reasi by coalition Government. Creation of Administrative Units in the State will ensure development and proper decentralized planning so that equitable development can be made in every backward area of the State, he added while addressing one-day convention of PDP delegates.

Apart from developmental activities in the State, certain political achievements are in the manifesto of PDP for establishment of peace with dignity and initiation of dialogue between India and Pakistan. The party is focusing for achieving these objectives in full, stated senior PDP leader Rangeel Singh.

General Secretary PDP Daman Bhasin stressed upon the party delegates to gear up themselves for ensuing elections in their respective areas.

About 500 delegates from district Reasi zone Mahore, Arnas, Gulabgarh, Neoch, Shajru, Tuksan, Juda, Bassar, Damni, Sangaldan and Reasi participated in the one-day convention.

Tasaduk Hussain, senior leader PDP, Noorul Hussain, District President PDP, Mumtaz Kousar, Zonal President Mahore, Shamshad Shan, District President Ramban and Anam Chowdhary, senior leader also spoke on the occasion.

About 15 workers of National Conference areas of district Reasi joined the PDP before the Minister for Agriculture and other senior leaders of PDP.

Shanker Singh Whagela, Ex Arunachal
CM participate in Ati Maharudra Yagya

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 8; The Union Minister of Textiles and senior Congress leader, Shanker Singh Whagela and other dignitaries including Parliament Member, Bhuvneshwar Prasad former Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Gegong Apang were among the hundreds of devotees to participate in the nine day long Ati Maharudra Yagya Avam Raj Rajeshwari Tripur Sundri Maha Archana today which is underway here at Dushera Ground Gandhi Nagar.

They also sought blessings from Jagad Guru Shankaracharya Swami Adokshyanand Tirath Ji of Goverdhan Peeth under whose spiritual guidance the Maha Yagya is being performed.

Mr Whagela, who reached here from Union Capital this afternoon after participating in the Maha Yagya for over one hour later left for New Delhi.

These dignitaries were received by MLA Gandhi Nagar, Mr Raman Bhalla and the other members of Ati Maharudra Yagya Samiti which has organised the religious function.

It may be recalled that the Yagya started with Kalash yatra yesterday which was followed by Devta Poojan this morning by reciting the mantras and hymns from Vedas by religious scholars.

In the evening hundreds of devotees performed Parakram (Circling round) of the Yagshalla which was followed by the Parvochan of Jagatguru Shankaracharya Ji Mahraj and other religious scholars.

The 200 Dandi Sanyasis from different parts of the country also participated in the religious function.

This Yagya has been organised for the promotion of brotherhood, peace tranquillity and spreading the message of humanity all around.

The entire atmosphere reverbated with fragrance at the venue of the Mahayagya and its surroundings with the recitation of Mantras by the spiritual saints.

The entire Dushera Ground and other parts of Gandhi Nagar were fully decorated. The Samiti has made elaborate arrangements for the devotees attending the function.

Mr Bhalla, who is assisting the Samiti said elaborate arrangements have been made for the devotees. He appealed to people to participate in this religious function in large numbers.

JSM(P) to intensify struggle for statehood

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 8: Jammu State Morcha (Progressive) today said that it would intensify its demand for separate statehood and expose alleged anti-Jammu policies being pursued by State coalition Government.

"We are going to commence an aggressive campaign through out the region and make people aware about discriminations being meted out to them" said Virender Gupta, president of JSM (P) while addressing a press conference here today and added that the door-to-door campaign would virtually get underway from May 10.

He said that march of Morcha would start from Sidhra and reach Jhajjar Kotli after covering Nagrota, Jagti, Panjgrain and other villages falling on the route. He further added that the next day, May 11, the march would proceed from Jhajjar Kotli and cover Dansal, Jindrah, Manwal and Surinsar.

While pointing towards recent scandal, Mr Gupta said that major leaders of ruling party are involved in immoral activities, which has shattered the faith of people in the coalition Government.

He further said that all the election eve commitments made by both the coalition parties have turned false as none was fulfilled. He declared that only separate State for Jammu could bring solution to the problems being faced by people of Jammu.

"The Chief Minister had committed to provide corruption free, honest, accountable and competent Government to the people but quite contrary to it he proved to be the defendant and promoter of corruption" he alleged.

He also slammed Chief Minister for not utilizing funds allocated by the Central Government for the equitable development of the State. He said that in the light of his failure as Chief Minister, Mr Azad should immediately relinquish his office. Calling upon the Governor, Lt. Gen. (Retd) S K Sinha to use his powers, Mr Gupta urged him to hold fresh Assembly elections under his rule.

Those who attended the press conference were Abdul Rouf Ganai, HB Khajuria, Dig Vijay Singh, Davinder Singh and Balvinder Singh Jamwal.

Doda migrants’ dharna enters 134th day

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 8: The dharna being staged by Erstwhile Doda Migrant Committee in front of Divisional Commissioner’s office today entered into 134th day today.

The demonstrators alleged that Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad had assured to provide six months ration to the migrants but nothing has been provided by State Government in this regard so far.

They also flayed Divisional Commissioner Jammu and Relief Commissioner, Jammu for making false commitments with the migrants. They rued that even the High Court’s directions have not been followed by State Government.

Meanwhile, demonstrators including Baldev Singh, Lalman, Krishan Singh, Thakkar Singh and Thakar Dass were shifted to GMC hospital due to deterioration in their health condition and were later discharged.

The demonstrators threatened that if Government does not concede their demands they will go for self-immolation to protest their resentment.

Various Assocaitions meet SASB
Pahalgam traders offer sops to Amarnath pilgrims

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, May 8: Pahalgam traders have offered cut throat rates to pilgrims undertaking Shri Amarnathji pilgrimage via the traditional route and sought support of Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board in carving out a bigger role for the local business community.

In a meeting with Principal Secretary to Governor and Chief Executive Officer, SASB, Dr Arun Kumar here this evening, the Pahalgam Hotel Association said that it was ready to slash down tariff drastically, bringing it at par with the rates of tentage accommodation, and appealed that no one should be stopped from staying in their hotels during the yatra period.

The Chairman of the Association, Javed Burzza said that the hoteliers have all along extended hospitality to the pilgrims, as this pilgrimage has been the only silver lining during the peak of militancy when tourist influx to the Valley was almost zero. "It will not be an exaggeration to say that our sustenance during that period was due to Amarnathji pilgrimage’, he added.

The Association said that it was not averse to having the Nunwan base camp but it should not be at the cost of hoteliers, whose business has suffered immensely during the past few years. They complained that the security exercise had created various obstacles for carrying out their avocations and called for its streamlining.

Dr Kumar reiterated that the Board wants massive local participation in the yatra and it will continue to remove the obstacles in this regard. He said that the law and order and security did not come under the ambit of the Shrine Board, however, it will take up the issues projected by the Association at appropriate levels to enable maximum utilization of the already available hotel accommodation in Pahalgam during the yatra period.

The Pahalgam Taxi Association stated that it had been rendering free transport services to Sadhus and other weaker sections of devotees from Pahalgam to Chandanwari and assured to continue the same.

The Pahalgam Pony Association members also put forth their problems and urged the Board to look into these earnestly.

Dr Kumar assured various associations of Pahalgam of all possible assistance from the Board in carrying out their avocations during the two-month long yatra.

PNB officers holds demonstration

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 8: The officers of Punjab National Bank (PNB), Jammu circle, today held a demonstration in front of Circle Office at Bahu Plaza.

The demonstration was held to register protest against the victimization of officers in the form of transfer orders and subsequent in absentia relieving of some of the officers by the management.

Speaking on the occasion, Satish Khajuria, general secretary, All India PNB Officers Association (AIPNBOA) said under the present dispensation relations between the management and officers have reached at the lowest ebb.

He, however, warned to launch an agitation if the rightful demands of the officers were not conceded through mechanism of bilateral negotiations.

Army provides furniture to 2 primary schools in border belt

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, Mar 8: The Army under Operation Sadbhavna today provided furniture and other material worth Rs two lakh to Government Primary schools in Border villages of Swani and Samyan in Dalogra area of Rajouri district.

The furniture items supplied by the Army included desks, cupboards and office material for the staff and students of these schools. In this connection a function was held in the area. The function was attended by a large number of local people, sarpanches and panches including ZEO, Vidya Sagar.

The function was chaired by Col. Sunil Diddee of Dalogra Regiment. The furniture was supplied to these two schools on the directives of Artillery Brigade.

Speaking on the occasion, Col Sunil highlighted the role of Army under Operation Sadbhavna. He said many developmental projects were taken up in hand for the welfare of the people in this border belt and some of them have been already completed.

He said earlier water supply scheme to Government Higher Secondary School and Sher-e-Kashmir Institute was completed by the Army. Besides 96 patients were examined for Cataract in medical camp recently and 18 who had acute problems were given treatment at 150 General Hospital, Rajouri.

360 units blood donated

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 8: Department of Transfusion Medicine, Government Medical College and SMGS Hospital got 360 units of blood in a two day blood donation camp organised by Sant Nirankari Mission at Shastri Nagar, Jammu and Kathua.

Dr Kum Kum Sharma, Prof and HoD Transfusion Medicine, GMC and SMGS Hospital along with her team—Dr Raman Kapoor, Dr Meena Sidhu and para-medical staff joined the camp.

To bridge the gap between increasing demand for blood and limited supply, Dr Kum Kum Sharma has appealed to social organisations and voluntary blood donors to come forward in this humanitarian drive and donate blood.

She sad due to advancement in medical and surgical technologies, the demand for blood is increasing day by day and it becomes the duty of social organisations to mobilise people for blood donation.

Brahman Sabha takes out Shoba yatra

Excelsior Correspondent

KATHUA, May 8: In connection with the Bhagwan Parshuram Jayanti celebrations, Brahman Sabha took out an impressive Shobha yatra here the other day.

Members of the Brahman community, especially the children, took part in the impressive Shoba yatra with great enthusiasm. The grand Shobha yatra started from Brahman Sabha and after passing through main market and various localities of Kathua town, it culminated at the Sabha Bhawan. A large number of people from various parts of Kathua and its adjoining villages took part in this religion programme.

DIG distributes blankets among militancy hit people

Excelsior Correspondent

RAJOURI, May 8: Eighty blankets were distributed among the militancy affected families by DIG Rajouri, Poonch Range, P R Manhas at a function held in village Kandi in Koteranka area of the district today.

Besides Rs 500 each along with certificates were also distributed among 10 youth who assisted the police and district administration in rescue operation during this year’s winter snow fall in Panj Gabar in Budhal area.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Manhas said police is with people and it will always render them all assistance and help.

He appreciated the role of local people in assisting police and security forces in various operations conducted from time to time.

Mr Manhas said the police is committed to render all help and assistance to militancy victims.

Action against doctor condemned

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 8: Assistant Surgeons Association, in a meeting held here today, condemned the arrest and suspension of Dr Pardeep Singh posted at Ramban District Hospital.

"Dr Pardeep Singh is not responsible for the death of the patient Mathi Devi, wife of Rakesh Kumar of Ramban as the attendants of the patient left Government Medical College and Hospital without medical advise", the Assistant Surgeons said.

They questioned the administration’s action against the doctor and regretted that such treatment to the doctors have become routine affairs. They urged all the doctors to unite under one banner to oppose such actions against the doctors serving in the far flung areas.

The meeting was among others attended by Dr Satyainder Singh, Dr Rajesh Bhagat, Dr Gagan Bali, Dr Vinod Khajuria and Dr Ashwani Sharma.

Pay ex-gratia relief of Rs 5 lakh instead of Rs 2 lakh: HC

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 8: Justice Virender Singh of State High Court today held that State Police jawan, who lost his life while fighting militants was entitled to payment of Rs five lakh ex-gratia relief as against Rs two lakh and directed the State to release the balance amount in the favour of petitioner within two weeks from today.

The judgement was passed in a petition filed by Baij Nath, who submitted that Government has enhanced the ex-gratia relief from Rs 2 lakh to Rs 5 lakh in respect of next kith and kin of the security forces including defence personnel killed in operations against militants.

However, the petitioner whose son—Sanivan Kumar lost his life on December 27, 1999 in an encounter with militants while serving in SOG, was granted and paid Rs 2 lakh ex-gratia relief on November 15, 2000. The petitioner filed the petition in the High Court seeking direction to the respondents to release the balance amount.

After hearing Advocate S K Puri appearing for the petitioner and AAG BS Salathia appearing for the State, Justice Virender Singh observed "in the considered view of the Court, the meaning has to be assigned to the expression "Security Forces" by keeping in consideration the true intention of the Government which actuated it to pass the order", adding "the court cannot just ignore the fact that in the year 1999, the State was reeling under militancy and the constitutional obligation of the State was seriously being jeopardized by the indiscriminate killings of people by the militants. It was only the security forces, who were and are bravely facing and putting up a fight with the militants".

"It is only because of their efforts and bravery that the militants if not totally eliminated from the State, have been virtually rendered non-functional and pushed to wall", the Court said, adding "one should not forget that the normalcy which people are experiencing now is at the cost of lives of the security personnel".

The State cannot draw any distinctions between a member of the State police who has laid down his life while fighting with militants and the members of other forces for the purpose of ex-gratia relief. The Government seems to have deliberately instead of describing any particular force in the said Government order has used the comprehensive expression "Security Forces" so as to bring all the forces fighting militancy under one umbrella. Therefore, in the considered view of this Court, this expression would include the State police force, Justice Singh said.

While allowing the petition, the Court said "the present case unfortunately depicts apathy of the Government. The petitioner’s son being the member of the police force lost his life while fighting against militants, therefore, he is entitled to payment of enhanced ex-gratia relief of Rs 5 lakh".

Vaishno Devi pilgrims security reviewed

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 8: Police authorities today reviewed security scenario for Mata Vaishno Devi ji pilgrims in Katra, the base camp of the shrine, as pilgrimage started picking up with summer vacations in Central schools and other institutions outside the State.

To ensure fool proof security arrangements for the pilgrims, SSP Reasi J L Sharma today chaired a meeting in Katra and took stock of the situation. SP Katra Ashok Sharma and SDPO Katra Jugal Sharma were also present in the meeting.

The SSP Reasi called for strengthening of police nakas and night patrols especially during peak hours in the evening. He stressed for frisking of the yatris but without subjecting them to inconvenience.

Mr Sharma also sought the co-operation of local people, hoteliers and traders, who were also present in the meeting, in ensuring smooth pilgrimage to the shrine.

Durbar Move employees demand Vigilance probe

Excelsior Correspondent

SRINAGAR, May 8: Durbar Move employees from Jammu have expressed dissatisfaction over the poor arrangements of their boarding and lodging and demanded an investigation by State Vigilance Organisation into a nexus between officers of Estates Department and private hotel owners in Srinagar.

A delegation of Durbar Move employees settled in different hotels and guest houses in Rajbagh, Sonwar and Buchhwara today complained that they had been pushed into deep trouble this year as there were not proper arrangements of boarding and lodging for them. They complained that like last year, Deputy Director of Estates, Kashmir had developed a nexus with owners of private hotels and guest houses and huge loss was being caused to state exchequer by physically occupying less number of rooms and paying rent to more number of rooms with exaggerated numbers.

The delegation complained that food was also being provided to half the number of Durbar Move employees and the hotel owners were being paid for double the numbers. They alleged that the excess amounts drawn from the public exchequer by way of fraudulent means were being shared between some senior officers of Deputy Directorate of Estates and the hotel owners. The delegation demanded a high level inquiry into this embezzlement and implored Commissioner of Vigilance, Dr Ashok Bhan, to take immediate cognizance, seize records and order an investigation.

The employees claimed that public money worth more than Rs 50 Lakh had been swindled this way in 2007 alone though powers of Deputy Director had been withdrawn in several matters. They said that senior officials of Estates Department had also been accommodating their own and their friends’ and relatives’ guests from New Delhi, Mumbai and other places into the accommodations otherwise booked for Durbar Move employees and the Estates Department was unduly paying for the same.

Lok Adalats held

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 8: For the speedy and amicable settlement of the cases, a Lok Adalat was organized in District Court Complex, Kathua today.

The first bench was comprised of District and Session Judge Kathua, S K Jamwal, also the chairman of the District Legal Services Authority, Kathua accompanied by Chief Judicial Magistrate Kathua, VS Bahu.

Thirteen MACT and two cases under Hindu Marriage Act were taken up by the bench out of which ten cases of MACT were amicably settled by way of mediation, negotiation and conciliation. An amount of Rs 10,95000 were awarded in favour of claimants. However, two cases under Hindu Marriage Act could not be settled.

The second bench was comprised of District Mobile Magistrate (Traffic) Kathua, SS Bali and Munsif (JMIC) Kathua, O P Thakur.

The bench took up two civil and 33 compoundable cases of different nature and all the cases were amicably settled and disposed off. An amount of Rs 10,550 was also realized as compounding fee on the occasion. The next Lok Adalat is scheduled to be held on May 29.

Meanwhile, a Lok Adalat was held at court complex Surankote under the chairmanship of Sub-Judge, Mohammad Choudhary who is also chairman of the Tehsil Legal Services Committee. He was accompanied by Bar president, Bar members, Prosecuting Officer, Riaz Ahmed, SDPO, Parbeet Singh, SHO Aslam Choudhary, Naib Tehsildar, M B Mughal and other prominent citizens of the area.

As many as 40 criminal cases were taken up in the Lok Adalat out of which 19 criminal cases were decided by way of negotiation, reconciliation and mutual understanding. A fine of Rs 10,500 was also realized on the spot.

Jammu girl makes it to top in Delhi

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 8: A Jammu girl has made it to a significant position in New Delhi.

Savita Gupta D/o Satish Chander Gupta of Rehari Colony has been elected as chairperson of Environment and Management Committee of Delhi in Delhi Municipal Corporation (DMC). She is already a member of Works Committee of Delhi Authority.

A Graduate from Govt Women College, Parade Ground, Savita Gupta represented DMC from Defence Colony from 2002 and Andews Ganz from 2007.

Two narco smugglers arrested
Heroin worth Rs 1 cr seized

Excelsior Correspondent

JAMMU, May 8: Bari Barahamana police today recovered one kg heroin worth Rs 1 crore in the international market and arrested two narcotics smugglers.

The narco smugglers identified as Yashpal, a resident of Draba, Surankote, presently putting up at Trait Basti, Bari Barahamana and Sahil of Bari Barahamana were arrested during a raid conducted by police party at Birpur.

One kg heroin, which they were reported to have smuggled here from Surankote, was recovered from them.

Police said the heroin was valued at Rs 1 crore in the international market.

A case against the narcotics smugglers has been registered at Bari Barahamana police station for further investigations.

The arrests were made by a Bari Barahamana police station party led by SHO Inspector Bharat Sharma under the supervision of SSP Samba Rajinder Gupta and SDPO Bari Barahamana Yogesh Sharma.