Parade Ground in Jammu is a historic and strategic place located in the heart of the city. Seldom do we have spacious grounds available for sports within such close proximity of the main city as the parade ground is. But owing to laxity of municipal authorities, this ground is being used for some activities other than sports. In an order issued in a PIL, the Division Bench has said that the Parade Ground will be used only for sports and no other activity. And if it is required to be used for other activities, prior permission of the court has to be obtained.
This is a timely order though earlier also in 1998 the court had issued an order to this effect. Taking cognizance of violation of that order the court has said any attempt of violating the order would be tantamount to contempt of court and thus punishable according to the law of the land. The order will bring happiness to the sportsmen of the city for whom this is the only nearest available ground to play. But, we would insist on authorities to ensure that cleanliness and tidiness of the ground is maintained at all costs and it is given proper shape of stadium. Wherever possible, turf has to be provided and also seating facility on the edges. Running water tapes should also be provided as well as toilets so that the play field remains tidy. Encroachment of the field should be got vacated and entrance has to be without overcrowding. Authorities shall have to provide parking space also. Nominal entry fee for sports clubs engaged in playing matches should be realized for the maintenance of the play field. It is also advisable to plant trees all around the ground on the outer fringes to provide shade to the spectators. We hope that the Sports Authority and the JMC will join heads to draw a plan for the development of the playfield.
Parade Ground for sports
2 militants, 2 civilians killed in shoot out, blast
Fayaz Bukhari
SRINAGAR, Nov 14: Two militants and equal number of civilians were killed and 4 persons including 3 security men were injured in two separate incidents in an overnight shootout and a blast in Kashmir today.
A police spokesman said here that two militants were killed in a fierce over night gun battle in South Kashmir village of Chinigam in district Kulgam today.
“The two militants who got killed in an encounter in Chinigam, Frisal Kulgam have been identified as Mohammad Abbas Malla @ Khatab son Ali Mohammad resident of Nowpora, Frisal and Manzoor-ul-Haq Malik @ Painter son of Mohammad Ramzan resident of Chinigam, Frisal.Both of them belonged to Lashkar-e-Toiba”, the spokesman said.
The spokesman said that one AK rifle and an Insas rifle has been recovered from the encounter site.
“Abbas Malla joined LeT ranks in 2013 and was involved in attack on a police party at Arwani in 2013 and the recent attack on CRPF at Lavdora Qazigund a few days back”, the spokesman said.
The spokesman said that Manzoor Malik was involved in the killing of Nasir Mir in Shopian in May this year besides he was also involved in Lavdora attack with Abbas Malla. “Manzoor was an over ground worker of LeT Commander Aiyatullah Bhat @Abu Maaz before joining militant ranks”, he added.
The police spokesman said that on a specific information regarding the presence of armed militants in village Chinigam, Frisal, Kulgam Police, 1 RR of Army and 18 Battalion of CRPF launched a cordon and search operation, last evening. “The joint party was fired upon by militants triggering an encounter”, he added.
Police said that the encounter that started last evening and continued in the morning. “The troops shot dead both the militants and their bodies were recovered from the debris of the houses that were damaged”, police added.
“After the recovery of two bodies from the encounter site, firing again started in which two Army men, one CRPF man and a civilian got injured. They have been rushed to the hospital”, the spokesman said.
The spokesman said that the injured civilian identified as Tariq Ahmad Bhat son of Mohammad Ismail resident of Nowbal Chinigam, succumbed to his injuries. “The condition of CRPF man and an Army man is stable, however, condition of one Army man is serious”, he added.
However, residents of the area disputed the police claim and said that the civilian was killed in security forces firing. And as the news of the killing of the civilian broke out there were protests in Bijbehera, Nowbal, Arwani, Frisal, Khudwani, Redwani and several other areas.
The protesters pelted stones on police and CRPF leading to clashes. Police and CRPF fired tear smoke shells, charged batons and fired in air to disperse the protesters. The area is tense and police and CRPF is deployed in full strength in the area.
An Army spokesman said here: “Based on specific intelligence about presence of terrorists in Chinigam village near Prisal area of Kulgam, a joint operation was launched by Rashtriya Rifles units of Army and the SOG resulting into killing of two terrorist. Bodies of two terrorists were recovered from the site along with one AK 47 and one INSAS Rifles, ammunition and other warlike stores.”
“Intelligence input about presence of two terrorists in a house in Chinigam village was received in the afternoon of November 13. Rashtriya Rifles units along with SOG launched the operations at 1400 hours. While the Army soldiers were in the process of establishing cordon, the terrorists holed up in the house, opened fire against the soldiers. The area around the house was effectively cordoned sealing the escape routes. As the noose was tightened, terrorists again opened up at 1630 hours. The Army soldiers engaged the terrorists and the intermittent exchange of fire continued”, the spokesman said.
The spokesman said: “The contact was re-established at about 0730 hours on November 14, and the fire fight ensued resulting into killing of the two terrorists. The identity of the terrorists is yet to be established. In the operation two Jawans of Army and one Jawan of CRPF were injured. They were evacuated from the site for treatment to 92 Base Hospital. Bodies of two terrorists were recovered from the site along with one AK 47 & one INSAS Rifles, ammunition and other warlike stores. The operation has been called off and bodies of the terrorists handed over to the Police. Successful joint operation will provide safe environment for elections to take place.”
In another incident one person was killed and another was injured in a mysterious blast in Kupwara district today.
An official said a blast took place at Lach Mawar, Handwara, in Kupwara, resulting in on-the-spot death of one Zahoor Ahmad Najar. “Two Army personnel were also injured in the blast who were hospitalised”, he said. Protests broke out in the area against the incident. Police have registered a case and are investigating the incident.
Reports said that all these three persons were on a motor cycle and they stopped at Lachi in Mawar village of the district. The three, who were on the motorcycle, were Zahoor Ahmad of Lachi in Mawar and two Army personnel. They stopped at Lachi at Mawar and were discussing something when all of a sudden a blast took place injuring all the three. However, Zahoor died on the spot and other two were injured and removed to hospital.
Ministers, legislators, rebels among 209 join fray for Phase-II
Sanjeev Pargal
JAMMU/SRINAGAR, Nov 14: Two hundred and nine candidates have joined the battle of ballot for second phase of polling in 18 Assembly constituencies of the State-nine each in Jammu and Kashmir, the nominations for which closed today. These segments will go to polls on December 2.
While 116 candidates have joined the electoral fray for nine constituencies in Jammu region-three each in Udhampur, Reasi and Poonch districts, 93 have filed their nominations for nine seats in Kupwara and Kulgam districts of Kashmir, official sources told the Excelsior.
Several sitting and former Ministers, legislators and ex-MLAs/MLCs were among those who have joined the fray for Phase-II of polling, they said.
Scrutiny of documents will be held tomorrow while candidates can withdraw their nomination papers till November 17.
The Election Commission today also issued notification for third phase of polling on December 9 for 16 seats of the Valley.
In a surprise development, Nissar Khan, a Cabinet Minister in Farooq Abdullah regime in 1996, joined the fray from Mendhar constituency as Independent candidate today.
Thirty-five candidates today joined electoral fray for nine Assembly constituencies of Jammu region including three each in Udhampur, Reasi and Poonch districts while BJP strongman Pawan Gupta today joined a long list of rebels in the party and filed his nomination papers for Udhampur Assembly constituency after taking out a massive rally in Udhampur town against party’s official candidate Pawan Khajuria, who also filed the papers today.
Minister of State in PMO Dr Jitendra Singh, MP from Udhampur-Doda Lok Sabha seat, BJP general secretary Ram Madhav and BJP state president Jugal Kishore Sharma accompanied Khajuria when he filed papers before the Returning Officer in Udhampur today.
Meanwhile, BJP rebel Pawan Gupta, who had narrowly lost in 2008 to NPP’s Balwant Singh Mankotia also submitted his nomination papers.
Gupta took out a rally in Udhampur town and outskirts as his thousands of supporters carrying placards and banners in his support marched throughout the town for six hours in the morning before BJP rebel filed his nomination papers.
Social and political activist Karnail Singh led another huge rally in Reasi as he joined battle of ballots from Reasi Assembly constituency today as an Independent candidate.
Dr Singh, Madhav and Sharma accompanied Pawan Khajuria as he took out a procession in Udhampur town before filing nomination papers for Udhampur Assembly seat. Khajuria later held a rally at Sailan Talab and called upon the people to strengthen the hands of Prime Minister Narendra Modi by voting in his favour. He declared that the BJP would capture the seat.
In his address to the massive crowd, Pawan Gupta declared that he was the candidate of `Real BJP’, which was evident from the fact that entire party office bearers, Sarpanchs and Panchs apart from the local people were supporting his candidature.
Apart from Pawan Gupta and Pawan Khajuria, an Independent candidate Dharam Pal also joined fray from Udhampur on last day of filing of nomination papers.
The stage was now finally set for triangular fight among sitting NPP MLA from Udhampur Balwant Singh Mankotia, BJP rebel Pawan Gupta and BJP candidate Pawan Khajuria from the constituency though NC, Congress, BSP and PDP candidates apart from Independents were also in the fray. The electoral battle has become prestigious for the trio.
The BJP had last won the seat in 1996 with party stalwart Lala Shiv Charan Gupta capturing the seat while Mankotia won it for two straight terms in 2002 and 2008 and is in fray for hat-trick. Pawan Gupta had lost the seat in 2008 with narrow margin while Pawan Khajuria is contesting the Assembly election for the first time.
In Ramnagar constituency of Udhampur district, three more candidates today joined the fray. They included Rajinder Kumar (covering candidate for BJP), Hidayatullah and Sanju Kumar (both Independents). BJP candidate RS Pathania also filed second set of nomination papers today.
No nominations were filed for Chenani (Reserve) seat of Udhampur today.
In another prestigious seat of Reasi, Independent candidate Karnail Singh, a social and political activist today displayed massive show of strength before filing his nomination papers. Thousands of people marched with Singh to the office of the Returning Officer eulogizing him.
Other candidates, who filed their nomination papers for Reasi constituency today included Balwan Singh (NPP), Meenakshi Sharma wife of sitting MLA Baldev Sharma (Independent), Kuldeep Singh and Rano Devi (both Independents). Meenakshi filed her papers as covering candidate for her husband, who was also in the race as an independent candidate after being denied mandate by the BJP. Saraf Singh, another strong independent candidate, who had taken voluntary retirement as KAS officer, filed another set of nomination papers for Reasi seat.
In Gulabgarh segment of Reasi district, three candidates today joined the electoral fray including Sardar Johar Singh (BSP), Mohammad Israyil (covering candidate for BJP) and Mohammad Ayub (Independent). They filed documents before Returning Officer, Ashwani Khajuria.
In Gool-Arnas segment of Reasi district, Independent Rumal Singh joined the fray.
In Poonch Assembly segment, seven candidate including Congress nominee Bashir Naz today filed their nomination papers. Others, who joined the fray, are Ishfaq Ahmad (BSP), Riaz Naz (covering candidate for Congress), Atiqa Begum (covering candidate for NC), Javed Iqbal Qureshi and Mohammad Kabir (both Independents) and Mohammad Rashid (NPP).
Eight candidates joined the electoral fray in Mendhar today including Deputy Chairman of Legislative Council Javed Rana (NC), Nissar Ahmad Khan, former Minister and 1996 MLA (Independent), Mohammad Azam Neelu (Hindustan Kranti Dal), Mushtaq Ahmad (Pir Panjal Awami Party), Nazir Hussain (covering candidate for NC), Mohammad Azim Khan and Yaar Mohammad Khan (both Independents) and Mohammad Azam Khan (covering candidate for PDP).
Four candidates filed their papers for Surankote seat of Poonch district today. They were Naseer-ul-Salam (BSP), Mohammad Sadiq Qureshi and Mohammad Shah (both Independents) and Abdul Hamid Khan (covering candidate for PDP).
Meanwhile, the Election Commission today issued a notification for the third phase of the five-phased Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir for 16 constituencies where voting will be held on December 9.
The notification was issued by respective Returning Officers of 16 Assembly segments, all of which fall in the Kashmir valley.
The constituencies for which the notification was issued today include Uri, Rafiabad, Sopore, Sangrama, Baramulla, Gulmarg and Pattan in Baramulla district, Chadoora, Budgam, Beerwah, Khansahib, Chrar-e-Sharief (Budgam district), Tral, Pampore, Pulwama and Rajpora in Pulwama district.
The last date for filing of nominations is November 21 while the scrutiny of the papers shall be conducted the next day. The last date for withdrawal of nominations is November 24.
Fifty four and 39 candidates have filed their nominations from nine constituencies of Kupwara and Kulgam district respectively on the last day of filing nomination papers.
From Kulgam constituency of district Kulgam, Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami who is seeking re-election, 8 candidates have filed their nominations.
Those who filed nominations besides Tarigami are Peer Nazim-ud-Din of Congress, Riyaz Ahmad Shah of BSP, Nazir Ahmad Laway of PDP, Imran Nabi Dar of NC, Ghulam Hassan Zargar of BJP and Towseef Ahmad Shah and Rashida Mir as Independents.
From Noorabad Assembly constituency of Kulgam, 15 candidates have filed their nominations. The constituency is represented by Sakina Itoo, of National Conference, and she is seeking re-election from there.
Apart from Sakina those who filed papers from Noorabad are Abdul Majeed Padder of PDP, Manzoor Ahmad Zargar of Congress, Mushtaq Ahmad Malik of BJP, Mushtaq Ahmad Mir of National Panthers Party, Ab Rehman Magray of BSP and Mushtaq Ahmad Dar Independent, Abdul Rashid Bhat, Bilal Ahmad Bhat, Tawseef Ahmad Dar, Gulzar Ahmad Mir, Akther Hussain Shah, Bashir Ahmad Bhat, Mehraj-ud-Din Dar and Mohammad Amin Teli as Independents.
From Humshalibugh of district Kulgam, where from Abdul Gaffar Sofi of PDP, is seeking re-election, 8 candidates have filed their nominations.
Besides Sofi, Abdul Majeed Bhat of NC, Anayatullah Rather of Congress, Mohammad Ayoub Sheikh of NPP, Dr Abdul Bary Naik of AIP, Mohammad Amin Bhat of SP, Ghulam Nabi Dar of BJP and Bashir Ahmad Bhat of BSP filed their nominations.
From Devsar constituency of Kulgam where from Mohammad Sartaj Madni of PDP is seeking re-election 8 candidates have filed their nominations.
Besides Madni, Peerzada Ghulam Mohammad Shah of NC, Mohammad Amin Bhat of Congress, Asif Jeelani of Forward Bloc, Nisar Ahmad Hajam of AJKPF, Fayaz Ahmad Bhat of BJP, Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat of BSP and Mudasir Rashid Mir as Independent have filed their nominations.
From Karnah in North Kashmir district of Kupwara wherefrom Kafil-ur-Rehman of NC is seeking re-election 8 candidates have filed nominations.
Besides Rehman, Raja Manzoor of PDP, Javed Ahmad Mirchal PDP, Ali Ashghar of Congress, Jehangir of NPP, Ishfaq-ur-Rehman of BJP, Mohammad Salim Mir PC, Aijaz Ahmad Badana of KMP.
From Kupwara wherefrom Saifullah Mir of NC is seeking re-election, 12 candidates have filed nominations.
Besides Mir, Fayaz Ahmad Mir of PDP, Sardar Khan of BSP, Bashir Ahmad Dar of PC, Wali Mohammad Khan of NPP, Ghulam Rasool Malik of Congress, Ghulam Hassan Sheikh of KMP, Abdul Rehman Lone of BJP, Saifullah Khan of NCP, Mohammad Amin of AIP, Sahil Mushtaq and Javed Ahmad have filed as independents.
From Lolab wherefrom Abdul Haq Khan of PDP is seeking re-election, 10 candidates have filed nominations.
Besides Khan, Qaisar Jamshed Lone of NC, Abdul Rehman Wani of PC, Abdul Rashid Zargar of BJP, Haji Farooq Mir of Congress, Suraya Bano of Indian Republic Party (IRP), Ghulam Nabi Shah of BSP, Mohammad Sultan Magrey of KMP, Ghulam Ahmad Malik of NPP and Ghulam Nabi Bhat as Independent filed their nominations.
From Handwara constituency, Choudhary Mohammad Ramzan of NC who is seeking re-election 12 candidates have filed nominations.
Besides Ramzan, Ghulam Mohidin Sofi of PDP, Sajjad Lone of PC, Mohammad Yasin Bhat of Congress, Aijaz Ahmad Sofi of AIP, Mohammad Abdullah Bhat of NPP, Ghulam Qadir Mircha of KMP, Sajjad Ahmad Pir of BSP and Anayatullah Lohar, Haneefa Begam, Hilal Ahmad Tantray and Abdul Rehman Tantray as independents filed their nomination papers from Handwara.
From Langate constituency, Engineer Sheikh Rashid, Independent, who is seeking re-election, 12 candidates have filed nominations.
Besides Rashid, those who filed nominations are Wali Mohammad Bhat of NC, Mohammad Ramzan Mir of NC, Ghulam Nabi Gania of PDP, Advocate Mohammad Abdullah Mir of PC, Javed Ahmad Najar of NPP, Bashir Ahmad Wani of Congress, Mohammad Maqbool War of BJP, Abdul Ahad Khan of BSP and Mohammad Malik , Mudasir Ahmad Tantray,Irshad Ahmad Gania and Haji Mohammad Akbar Gania, Independents filed nominations from Langate.
In Gulabgarh Assembly constituency of Reasi district, 11 candidates, Shafiq-Ur-Rehman (PDP), Mumtaz Ahmed (INC), Abdul Gani Malik (NC), Khalid Jahangir (Substitute Candidate of NC), Bashir-Ud-Din (JKNPP), Shaber Ahmed (Hindustan Janta Party), Pardeep Singh (BJP), Mohd Ayub (Independent), Jawahar Singh (BSP) and Mohd Israil (ST) have filed their nomination papers.
In Reasi Assembly segment, 16 candidates, Ajay Nanda (BJP), Om Parkash (CPI-M), Jugal Kishore (Congress), Karan Singh (BSP), Chain Singh (JKNPP), Jagjivan Lal (NC) and Sandeep Rajput (BSP) filed their nominations whereas 9 candidates Anil Kumar, Baldev Raj Sharma, Bansi Lal, Rano Devi, Saraf Singh, Karnail Singh, Kuldeep Singh and Meenakshi Singh Sharma have filed their nomination papers as Independents.
In Gool Arnas, 12 candidates, Kuldeep Raj Dubey (BJP), Shiban (BSP), Sonica Venakshi (Covering Candidate BSP), Ajaz Ahmed Khan (Congress), Shamshad Bano (NC), Shakeel Ahmed (JKNPP), Imtiyaz Ahmed Shan (PDP), Shamsher Singh (Covering Candidate) filed their nominations whereas 4 candidates Arjun Singh, Gulzar Ahmed Wani, Haji Abdul Rehman and Romail Singh filed their nomination papers as Independents
In Udhampur Assembly constituency, 12 candidates, Sunil Verma (NC), S. Ranjit Singh (BSP), Sukhdev Sharma (PDP), Dharam Paul (Hindustan Janta Party), Pawan Khajuria (BJP), Dharam Pal (Hindustan Janta Party), Ashok Kumar Gupta (INC), Amit Kumar Modi, substitute candidate (INC), Balwant Singh Mankotia (JKNPP) and Sukhdev Sharma (PDP) filed their nominations whereas 2 candidates Pawan Kumar Gupta and Soma filed their nomination papers as Independents.
In Chenani (SC) Assembly Constituency, 8 candidate Pushpa Devi (SP), Hans Raj (PDP), Sansar Chand (NC), Pushpa Devi Dogra (SP), Mohinder Kumar (BSP), Dhani Ram Atri (JKNPP) Dina Nath (BJP) and Krishan Chander (INC) filed their papers.
In 62- Ramnagar Assembly seat, 12 candidates Rajinder Kumar (Substiture) (BJP), Ranbir Singh Pathania (BJP), Harsh Dev Singh (JKNPP), Vinod Kumar Sharma (INC), Vikrant Sharma (Substitute) (INC), Sukham Chand (BSP), Ram Pyari (Substitute (BSP), Ranbir Singh Pathania (BJP), Raj Kapoor (NC) and Mohd Amin (Substitute) (NC) filed their nominations whereas 2 candidates Hadayat Ullah and Sanju Kumar filed their nomination papers as Independents.
In Surankote Assembly constituency, 12 candidates, Mohd Taj (BJP), Mohd Akram (INC), Ashfaq Rana (JKNPP), Javid Ahmed (All India Forward Bloc), Mohd Azad Khan (BJP), Iqbal Hussain Shah (PDP), Syed Mushtaq Ahmed Shah (JK-NC), Advocate Naseer-Ul-Islam Ahmed (BSP) and Abdul Hamid Khan (PDP) filed their nominations whereas 3 candidates Ayaz Ahmed Mughal, Mohd Sadiq Qureshi and Mohd Shah filed their nomination papers as Independents.
In Mendhar Assembly constituency, 16 candidates, Mohd Tariq Khan (JKNPP), Mohd Shafeeq Khan (BSP), Mohd Mahroof Khan (PDP), Murtaza Ahmed Khan (INC), Zulfqar Hussain Khan (BJP), Mohd Azam (Meelu) (Hindustan Krantikari Dal, Nisar Ahmed Khan (Nil), Mushtaq Ahmed ( Pir Panjal Awami Party), Javed Ahmed Rana (NC) Ch. Nazir Hussain (NC) and Mohd Azam Khan (PDP) filed their nominations whereas 5 candidates Nisar Hussain Shah, Abdul Majeed Chowan, Mohd Sharief Khan, Mohammed Azim Khan and Yaar Mohammad Khan filed their nomination papers as Independents.
In Poonch-Haveli Assembly constituency, 15 candidates, Shah Mohd Tantray (PDP), Shamim Ahmed Dar (PDP), Pardeep Sharma (BJP), Chaman Lal (BJP), Mohd Younis (JK Pir Panjal Awami Party), Ajaz Ahmed Jan (NC), Mohd Rashid (JKNPP), Atiqa Begum (NC), Ch Bashir Ahmed Naz (INC), Ch Riyaaz Naz (INC) and Ashfaq Ahmed (BSP) filed their nominations whereas 4 candidates Ameer Hussain Shah, Chaudhary Abdul Ghani, Mohd Kabir Qureshi and Javid Iqbal Reshi filed their nomination papers as Independent.
Jitendra hits out at Omar Govt for ignoring flood warnings
Avtar Bhat
—Excelsior/Rakesh
JAMMU, Nov 14: The Union Minister in PMO and Incharge North Eastern States, Dr Jitendra Singh today blamed the State Government that instead of utilizing the huge assistance provided by Central Government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the flood victims it unnecessary indulged into blame game.
While talking to reporters here, today along with BJP national general secretary, Ram Madhav and BJP State president and MP Jugal Kishore Sharma, Dr Singh accused the State Government of ignoring the in time warnings given by the Metereological Department about floods, which ravaged the Kashmir Valley, particularly the Srinagar City in September this year.
Dr Singh said instead of utilizing the Central assistance and putting its men and machinery into action for rehabilitation of victims, the State Government parroted its one point agenda of declaring the floods in the State as national calamity.
Had the State Government taken timely action and pressed its men and machinery for preemptive measures, the situation could have been saved from taking such an ugly turn, he added.
“We had issued similar flood warnings to the Governments of Uttarakhand and Jammu and Kashmir to undertake measures in this regard. While Uttarakhand Government responded to flood warnings as the State had suffered a heavy loss last year, J&K government ignored it,” Singh added.
Dr Singh and other BJP leaders who were replying to volley of questions on the blame game over floods that battered Kashmir valley, particularly Srinagar city, resulting in huge loss of lives and damage to the property termed all the allegations made by the State Government baseless. The State Government indulged into the blame game instead of putting up its men and machinery in action as baseless, he added.
“Nobody (in J&K) bothered when water level crossed the danger mark (despite issuance of several Met department warnings) and entire Srinagar City sunk,” he said. No one took action to stop construction of Shopping Malls on river beds, he added.
“I personally monitored the situation at the Met office and was instrumental in sending alerts to J&K Government under my own supervision about abnormally high rainfall hitting Pir-Panchal in South and Central Kashmir’’, he said, adding the Government remained in deep slumber even when the flashfloods wreaked havoc in districts of Jammu region and Kashmir valley.
Singh released a two-page chargesheet against Jammu and Kashmir Government for its failure to take call on floods to save hundreds of lives and damage caused to infrastructure. He also questioned the preparedness on part of Omar government to save J&K from flood fury.
The charge sheet mentioned that Met office warnings and alerts were sent to Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Chief Engineer Mechanical Division, Flood Control and other officials on September 2, 3 (twice in the day), 4, 5 and 6 before the floods inundated Srinagar summer capital.
“We went beyond our duty to warn J&K Government that continuous rains could trigger major floods and landslides, disrupt road and air transport but these warnings were not further furnished by these departments to the general public,” he said.
Charging Jammu and Kashmir Government over the issue, he said no alerts were sounded by its flood control department or respective Deputy Commissioners of Srinagar and Anantnag district about the magnitude of the water that was approaching Srinagar city.
Government’s unpreparedness despite the Met warnings could be gauged from the fact that entire Government got trapped in the floods and were battling for survival, he said.
Instead, allegations were levelled on the Central Government and a demand was made to declare the Floods in the State as a natural calamity when the Centre made it clear that the assistance and help given by it was much beyond being given under natural calamity, Singh said.
He said Centre responded much quicker and next day Union Minister, Raj Nath Singh and I visited the State to assess the situation. The HM assured full support and asked the State Government to utilize Rs 1100 crore out of Central assistance lying unutilized with it for the relief work.
This was followed by visit of PM next day who announced an additional package of Rs 1000 crore. Later all Union Ministers visited the State and announced special packages. Even on Diwali the PM gave another special package, he said adding Centre did not shirk its responsibility but it was the State Government which had no point to criticize indulged into criticism for the sake of criticism.
Replying to a question about Rs 44,000 crore package submitted to the Centre by the State Government, he said, “State came with its own survey figure of Rs 44,000 crore”.
Questioning the way survey was conducted by the State Government to arrive at a figure of Rs 44,000 crore, he said, we had asked the State Government about the parameter adopted to arrive at such a figure but they did not come forward.
“We have suggested to them for a joint survey and lend our helping hand but they seem to have shied away,” he said.
Maintaining that BJP will form its Government on its own, Ram Madhav said that people in the State are enthusiastic to vote for BJP this time and “we are getting a good response in Kashmir Valley also to accomplish the Mission 44+’’.
BJP is contesting this election with Mission 44+ in the State and Party is contesting on 70 seats in the State, said Mr Madhav. While candidates for maximum seats have been announced the remaining will be announced within some days, he added.
The BJP’s poll plank will be development, good governance with corruption free administration, he said.
“If J&K is to be taken on the path of progress like other parts of country under the leadership of Narendra Modi then the people of the State have a golden opportunity to end the hegemony of father son and father daughter duo parties, said Dr Jitendra Singh.
Dr Singh said while the State Government is facing the anti incumbency factor this myth has been exploded for BJP ruled States like MP and Chhatisgarh which got a massive mandate for third consecutive time.
He said the leaders who had launched a hate Modi campaign and said that they will jump into the sea later made a beeline to welcome Modi with bouquets.
He said with this objective the party has started its campaign in the State with full enthusiasm and the spirit of its activists is high.
Ram Madhav also denied that Party is compromising on its agenda saying that the same will be reflected in its poll manifesto to be released soon.
He said the Party has not changed its stand on Article 370 but there are many more issues which need attention during these elections.
The BJP leader also denied that Party has joined hands with separatists while replying to a question regarding recent meeting of Sajjad Gani Lone of People’s Conference with Prime Minister.
He said there is a difference between separatists and those who contest elections under Indian Constitution. “If any body is ready to join PM’s bandwagon for reconstruction and development of J&K we welcome it’’ he added.
DB fixes Dec 17 deadline for Director SVO, SITs to complete probe into Roshni Scam
*Warns to initiate stern action against erring officers
Mohinder Verma
JAMMU, Nov 14: Stating that investigation into various FIRs relating to Roshni land scam is being deliberately delayed to enable the accused to destroy evidence, Division Bench of State High Court comprising Chief Justice M M Kumar and Justice Tashi Rabstan has fixed December 17 deadline for the Director of Vigilance and all the Special Investigation Teams to complete investigation.
The DB, while directing the Director State Vigilance Organization to make use of various coercive methods proceeded in the Criminal Procedure Code for completion of investigation, has warned to initiate stern action under law against the officials, who would try to act arbitrarily by keeping the slow pace of probe.
“The Public Interest Litigation (PIL) titled Prof S K Bhalla Versus State and Others and connecting Civil Miscellaneous Applications (CMAs) expose the ugly face of implementing the provisions of the Jammu and Kashmir State Land (Vesting of Ownership to the Occupants) Act, 2001 popularly known as Roshni Scheme”, the DB observed.
While pointing towards the report of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India for the year ending March 31, 2013, the DB said, “the State Government before the CAG had taken the stand that there was no deviation in implementation of the Roshni Act and action would be taken against the erring officials if anything is found wrong”, adding “the CAG on its turn has disapproved the reply of the department stating that it didn’t relate to the audit findings”.
It has been brought on record that direction was issued by the State Vigilance Commission to the State Vigilance Organization to register multiple FIRs constituting four Special Investigating Teams to investigate the scam of greatest magnitude concerning land. The team for Jammu-Samba districts is headed by SSP Vigilance Organization, Jammu and the team for Udhampur district is headed by SSP Vigilance of this district. The team for Srinagar and Budgam districts is headed by SSP Srinagar.
“Despite the constitution of SITs, nothing concrete has been brought on record to show that the investigation in the FIRs is either complete or near completion”, the DB said while expressing dismay on the slow pace of investigation in the matter of such a serious magnitude, which can easily be styled as the biggest land scam of the State.
The DB, after hearing the arguments of Advocate Sheikh Shakeel Ahmad for the petitioner and Senior AAG Gagan Basotra for the State, has further observed, “a natural corollary flows to doubt, whether the investigating agency like Vigilance Organization is serious about investigation of the crime or they are completely slow peddling the issue”.
“We are left with the impression that investigation in respect of various FIRs is deliberately delayed so as to enable the accused to destroy evidence”, the DB said, adding the collection of documentary evidence in the present case should not have taken more than two months and the accused could have been proceeded under various criminal cases. The action with regard to transfer and re-transfer of the land to the State should have been initiated.
The DB has further stated, “if the Vigilance Organization takes its task seriously, it could have completed the investigation by now and produced challan by bringing the guilty to the books”, adding “the FIRs which have been registered may not take in their sweep, all the accused and the investigation assumed greater importance so that others, who are not named in the FIRs may also be brought to book”.
With these observations, the DB has directed the Director of State Vigilance Organization and all the SITs to complete investigation on or before December 17, 2014. “In case the investigation is not completed by the fixed date then the Director Vigilance shall remain present in person”, the DB said, adding “the Director is further directed to make use of various coercive methods proceeded in the Criminal Procedure Code for completion of investigation including the attachment of the property, accounts and even auction of the property belonging to the accused”.
Warning against further slow peddling, the DB said, “if we find that the Director Vigilance has been acting arbitrarily by keeping the slow pace of investigation then various presumption available in law shall be reached by initiating proceedings against the erring officials”.
Earlier, during the course of arguments in the PIL and connected CMAs, the Chief Justice, in the open court, had dubbed the State Vigilance Organization as “lazy organization” after the Senior Additional Advocate General, Gagan Basotra failed to specific any time-frame for the completion of investigation into six FIRs even after being given opportunity by the DB to seek instruction from the Director Vigilance in this regard.
The Comptroller and Auditor General in its report has observed that the principal objective of the Act was to raise resources for investment in power sector and the Government had estimated resource mobilization of about Rs 25,448 crore by selling 20,64,972 kanals of State land under unauthorized occupation.
However, only Rs 76.24 crore (24 percent) was reportedly realized against a demand of Rs 317.64 crore raised by the end of March 2013 in the actual transfer of 3,48,160 kanals in the State. Thus, the principal objective of the Act vis-à-vis raising of resources for investment in power sector got defeated although the State lost sizeable land.
CAB keeps Srini waiting, to support only after Jaitley nod
New Delhi, Nov 14:
The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) has decided to keep their cards close to their chest as its supremo Jagmohan Dalmiya “refused to commit his support” for president-in-exile N Srinivasan and has told him that he will do so only after receiving the nod from Arun Jaitley.
Srinivasan met Dalmiya during the MAK Pataudi Memorial Lecture in Kolkata recently and sought his support as he would be nominated from the East Zone. However to Srinivasan’s surprise, Dalmiya was non-committal.
“Since Dalmiya controls two votes (CAB and National Cricket Club (NCC)), Srinivasan asked him to officially sign and support his candidature. But Dalmiya said that he needs to speak to Arun Jaitley before giving him the nod. Srinivasan was slightly taken aback,” a senior CAB office-bearer, who was privy to conversation told PTI on condition of anonymity.
He then explained Dalmiya’s stance about remaining non-committal.
“Look, if there is an election once the legal impasse is over, 2 votes out of 31 can be crucial. That’s one aspect. The second aspect is at this point of time, Dalmiya trusts and respects BJP heavyweight and Union Finance Minister Jaitley’s views.
“All the institutional voters will obey his (Jaitley’s) instructions. So Dalmiya wants Jaitley to tell him in as many words that he needs to support Srinivasan. Then only will he commit,” the official, who is also a part of one of the BCCI sub-committees said.
“Dalmiya told Srinivasan in no uncertain terms that it was on Jaitley’s recommendation that he became the interim president for a short period last year after IPL scandal broke out. He shares a very cordial relation with Jaitley and trusts his judgement”, the official said.
There are unconfirmed reports that former BCCI president Sharad Pawar might throw his hat in the ring but no official word has come out directly from the veteran Maharashtra politician.
The anti-Srinivasan group people, who are currently in the open are Vidarbha’s Shashank Manohar, Saurashtra’s Niranjan Shah, Mumbai Cricket Association, Maharashtra Cricket Association’s Ajay Shirke to name a few.
Although IS Bindra has retired from sports administration, Punjab Cricket Association is also not close to the ruling group. (PTI)
Unidentified body recovered
Excelsior Correspondent
RAMBAN, Nov 14: Body of an unidentified male has been recovered on the bank of river ‘Dhom Dheng’ in village Thetar, falling under the jurisdiction of Banihal police station.
As per police sources, body of an unidentified male aged between 44 to 46 years has been recovered on the bank of river ‘Dhom Dheng’ in village Thetar.
The body has been shifted to mortuary of Sub-District hospital (SDH) Banihal for identification.
Police has taken cognizance in this regard.
Bhalla vows to continue spree of development in Gandhi Nagar
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Nov 14: Minister for Culture, Horticulture and Housing and Congress party candidate from Gandhi Nagar constituency Raman Bhalla today vowed to continue the spree of development in the constituency and sought people’s support for it.
Bhalla asked the Congress party workers to gear up for the forthcoming Assembly elections and educate the common masses about the people friendly policies and programmes of the party.
Minister stated this while addressing public gatherings in Dharap, Bhour and Digiana areas of the Gandhi Nagar constituency here today.
Mr Bhalla apprised the gathering about the developmental works being carried out by the Congress party during the last six years in the Gandhi Nagar constituency.
“Installation of LED lights worth Rs one crore at Bahu Fort for promotion of tourism, upgradation of schools, construction of lanes and drains, regular supply of drinking water and construction of community halls are some of the works done in the Gandhi Nagar constituency”, Minister said, adding that there is dire need of much more development in the constituency, which could be achieved if people vote me for another spell.
Apart from creating unimaginable infrastructural facilities across Jammu and Kashmir, Congress continued the spree of growth and development, whether it was creation of new administrative units, opening of health centres, new ITI, polytechnic, degree colleges and upgradation of various high and higher secondary school said, Bhalla added.
He added that Congress is committed for the equitable development of all three regions of J&K and in the forthcoming Assembly elections, Congress would emerge with thumping majority to form the next Government in the State to serve the people.
“If his party is voted to power again, a new phase of development will be started in the Gandhi Nagar constituency as the party gives the priority to the prosperity and development of the State”, he assured.
Seeking vote for Congress party, Bhalla asked the people to make best use of their franchise in the forthcoming Assembly elections to elect honest, dedicated and people friendly representative.
Among others present were Sarpanch Kashmir Singh, Panch Deedar Singh, Tara Singh, Mansa Singh, Sarpanch Amrit Bali, Mahanat Rakesh Bali, Ex Corporator Dwarka Choudhary.
Various organizations observe World Diabetes Day
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Nov 14: The World Diabetes Day was observed by various organizations and institutions by organizing awareness camps on the disease and conducting free blood sugar detection camps.
Indian Red Cross Society, Region Jammu organized 2nd Diabetes awareness camp on the eve of World Diabetes Day at Green Belt Park, Channi Himmat, Jammu. Free Blood Sugar detection tests of morning walkers were conducted on the spot by a team of Red Cross Lab technicians under the supervision of Dr Kavita Nijhon, Medical Officer, Red Cross Dispensary. More than 80 tests were conducted and the general public particularly morning walkers were made aware about the Diabetes and its preventive measures.
A poster making and slogan writing competition in connection with World Diabetes Day was organized at MIER College of Education. Dr Arun K Gupta, chairman, MIER Group of Institutions was the chief guest. He inaugurated the exhibition of slogans and posters prepared by the students on the theme of ‘Precaution, Symptoms, Causes and Cure of Diabetes’. About 200 students participated in the competition and prepared quite innovative and informative posters and slogans. Dr Gupta in his address to the students conveyed the message of Union Minister Dr Jitender Singh, who also happens to be an illustrious alumnus of the institution on the occasion of World Diabetes Day.
On the occasion of World Diabetes Day 2014, Thyrocare Gandhi Nagar Centre, opposite Government Hospital, today organized a free blood sugar testing camp for the people. The camp was inaugurated by Dr R C Sharma, leading gynecologist in presence of Pooja Gandotra, Franchisee Thyrocare, Ashok Braroo, leading nutrition expert, Dr Taran Singh, Medical Officer ISM, CA Pardeep Gandotra, president YHAI Jammu. Speaking on the occasion, Dr R C Sharma stressed upon the role of exercise and balanced diet in controlling the menace of diabetes. Ashok Braroo and Dr Taran Singh also spoke on the occasion. Davinder Bakshi, secretary YHAI conducted the proceedings while Pragya Gandotra presented vote of thanks.
In connection with “World Diabetes Day”, Bhartiya Lok Sangeet Kala Sansthan organized a programme at 197- Durga Bhawan, Janipur (Jammu). The program was inaugurated by Dr Tara Singh Charak, former Deputy Director, State Health Department. VK Magotra, former Regional Director of Directorate of Field Publicity, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, Dr Anju Dogra, State Health Department, Vinod Dogra, Chief Service Engineer, Exide Ltd, RP Amla and Vijay Malla, producer and Director, IPTA, were the guests of honor. General awareness items specially prepared on the theme of Diabetes and Hypertension was presented by BLSKS artists. Earlier, the Program commenced with song “Shugar Kola Bacho” Nai Pee Shraban, Chutki.” Loon Mata Nahi Khaiya Zind Rogen Cha Bachyan. Skits Folk Songs and dances were presented to aware the masses.
Cong, other organizations remember Nehru
Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Nov 14: Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) and several other organizations remembered the first Prime Minister of India Pt Jawaharlal Nehru on his 125th birth anniversary.
Rich tributes were paid to Pt Nehru in a function held at PCC Headquarters , Shaheedi Chowk here as part of celebrations. The function was presided over by Thakur Hari Singh-PCC vice president and was attended by senior functionaries of PCC, DCC, BCC, Mahila Congress , Ward presidents, INTUC, Seva Dal, Youth and NSUI.
Prominent leaders who paid tributes included Dharam Pal Sharma, Indu Pawar-MLA president Pradesh Mahila Congress; Chuni Lal Bhat, Maheshwar Singh, Rashid Choudhary (general secretaries); SR Sudhir, Kanta Bhan, president DCC Jammu (Urban) Anil Chopra; Lalita Sharma, Pawan Raina, Neeraj Gupta, Sanjeev Sharma and Jammu-West candidate Sardar S S Shingari.
While paying tributes Thakur Hari Singh described Pt Nehru as a great visionary and architect who laid the foundation of Modern India. He said devotion to democracy was one of Nehru’s political principal and the building of a democratic, social and political system was one of his principal objectives. For him political democracy was a means of solving social problems. He laid the foundation of Panchayati Raj and Community development programmes because he believed that first objective of the State was social welfare and empowerment of the people. He was architect of Non Aliened Movement (NAM) with aim to finish the domination of big powers. Pt Nehru also laid foundation of India’s Atomic Energy for peaceful use and selected Dr Homi Bhabha who established Atomic Research Centre in Mumbai.
Meanwhile, Congress Seva Dal celebrated Children Day at Samba District Head Office on the eve of 125th birth anniversary of Pt Jawahar Lal Nehru. B S Sambyal, State chief organizer addressed Seva Dal workers and highlighted the role of Pt Nehru. He said that Seva Dal would launch a mass awareness in every district to education children about drug addiction. Dimple Sambyal, M L Rao, Pardeep Singh, Ankush Sharma, Raj Kumar, Ashok Kumar and others were also present.
Nehru Youth Club Rajouri celebrated Bal Diwas on the birth day of ‘Chacha Nehru’ at Rajouri today. Th Ragbir Singh, Sarpanch was the chief guest on the occasion. Women from Self Help Groups, volunteers of JNYC and National Youth Welfare Organization participated in the programme Mohd Nasir Khan delivered the lecture on childhood. He said a child starts to learn best qualities at home through observation, suggestion and influence from their childhood days. Hence parents/guardian plays a major role in shaping a child’s future or their thinking and career.
Kishtwar Congress Committee celebrate Children’s Day which is celebrated on birthday of Pt Jawahar Lal Nehru. A large number of party workers participated in the function which was held under the chairmanship of Randeep Bhandari, local Congress leader.
While Speaking on the occasion Bhandari said that children are the future of the country. He said that Pt Nehru had special love for the children and the children also used to say jim Chacha Nehru out of their love and affection. of love and affection.
National Students Union of Kishtwar led by Prakash Singh Dadwal and Block Congress Committee under the leadership of Baldev Raj Sharma also celebrated birth anniversary of Pt Nahru and remembered his contributions for the country and Congress Party.