Website launched at Darbar-e-Kashani

Viewers to have easy access to Mecca, Madina

            Hazrat Faqir Mohammad Dilawar, Sajade Nasheen, Darbar-e-Kashani, Shalimar today launched website www.ziyaratlive.org  created by Jenab Affan Yasawi to telecast live streaming from the Holy Centres  Makkah / Medina. He congratulated him for his hard work and making it possible that now any person can access to these Holy places from anywhere, anytime. He also prayed that people can take benefit of this website".  

            Affan said that he was inspired to create this website when he recently performed Umraha and felt that people who desire to visit or re-visit the Holy places of pilgrimage but could not effort to do so because of various reasons made him to crate this website that could open an easier avenue for them to feel the peace and joy of being in these Holy places by viewing it at their website. He has offered this in the service of Almighty Allaha.

            Many religious leaders across the world have already congratulated Affan for his service .Later it was informed that almost 300 visitors browse the site daily and it is hoped that the number will increase day by day.

Strategy in place to tackle unemployment: Omar

Coalition strong enough to survive hiccups: Rather

SRINAGAR, MAY 21(VOS): Terming unemployment crisis as a grave concern, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Monday said that his government is addressing the issue through a multi pronged strategy adding that government employment alone cannot be the solution to it.

“No country or the state is in a position to provide government jobs to every educated youth”, he said maintaining that he does not want to lie on this count and deceive youth like others who exploited them by making false promises and misleading them through sinful tricks. In a veiled reference to PDP, he said the youth of the state are aware of the fate of the promise made to them by some people regarding providing two employments to each family.  

“I am not of the grain who would lie to you for vested interests and face the wrath of Almighty,” Omar said adding that his government is actively focusing on addressing unemployment problem through various measures besides providing government jobs to educated youth. “Despite all odds and heavy financial constraints, my government provided government jobs to over 30000 youth during last three years besides absorbing thousands in the police department”, he added.

Addressing a public gathering at Nagam in Charar-i-Sharief constituency after laying foundation of a Government Polytechnic College there, Omar Abdullah said that upgradation of skills and enhancement of employability of educated youth has received great attention which would result in opening of avenues for them to get absorbed in open job market.

The Chief Minister said that SKEWPY and other initiatives to help youth to earn their livelihood are also in place to address the un-employment problem. He said the sanctioning of 18 more Polytechnic Colleges in the state to provide trainings to youth in different modern skills is an effective step forward under the skill development mission of the government.

Omar said that generation of economic activities depends on peaceful conditions. “You have witnessed the economic growth and holistic development during the last year due to peace and tranquility that prevailed in the state. This has had tremendous impact on the revival of tourism which constitutes motor nerve of the state’s economic welfare”, he said and asked the people to render full support to the government in maintaining peaceful situation in the state.

“Development speaks loud and clear but only those witness it that keep their eyes open and do not possess biased mindset”. Omar said and presented a resume of achievements registered by the coalition government during last three years across the state. He said hundreds of schemes completed and scores of major projects under implementation in the state itself speak of the government’s determination to make the progress rule the roost. He said that his government would continue its endeavor of restoration of permanent peace in the state and achieve the goal of progress and prosperity.

Speaking on the occasion, the Minister for Finance and the MLA of the area, Abdul Rahim Rather rejected the propaganda regarding the coalition government and said that those who spread rumors about it live in a fool’s paradise. “They should bear it in mind that the coalition government under the leadership of Omar Abdullah is strong and functioning in tandem to move forward on the road to progress and holistic development on firm footing. We are enjoying full support of the centre leadership to accomplish the task of achieving peace and prosperity for the state”, he maintained.

Rather said that certain elements are bent upon disturbing peace and tranquility of the state to fish in the troubled waters. He cautioned the people about the designs of such elements and referred the progress and economic growth achieved by the state due to peaceful conditions during the last year.

Provincial President National Conference, Ali Mohammad Dar and District President Congress, Mohammad Maqbool were present on the occasion. 

Earlier, Chief Minister laid foundation of Polytechnic College at Nagam to be constructed at a cost of Rs. 16.50 crores over an area of about 60 kanals of land. The built of area for the institution comprises of 6555 sqms. The main building of the Polytechnic will have administrative and academic blocks besides the workshop. The three trades of civil engineering, auto mobile engineering and mechanical engineering have been sanctioned for the Nagam Polytechnic with an intake capacity of 180 candidates annually. During the current academic session, classes for two trades are being started with an intake capacity of 120 candidates.

Omar oppressing voices by force: Mirwaiz

‘Mainstream politicians, agents of New Delhi’

‘Indiscipline in Hurriyat not acceptable’

Srinagar, May 21 (VOS) : Calling mainstream politicians as ‘agents’ of New Delhi, Huuriyat Conference (M) Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq on Monday made it clear that the Kashmir settlement was possible only through United Nations resolutions or Tripartite dialogue . He said that trade and demilitrilization should be treated only a confidence building measure (CBMs) and not a solution to Kashmir dispute.

Addressing a hurriedly called Press conference at his Nageen residence after being placed under house arrest in wake of his proposed Idgah march to mark the death anniversary of his father Late molvi Mohammad Farooq , Mirwaiz said that  22 years ago, a tragedy had happened that not only shook his personnel life but also cast its shadow on the whole Kashmiri nation, as according to him, the Late Mriwaiz was not only the head of his family but a great religious and political figure that had its impact on a wider range of society.

Terming May 21, 1990 as the ‘Jalyanwala Bagh massacre of Kashmir’ Mirwaiz said, “Government has been trying to oppress the voices by force and has done so even today”.  “They have done it even in the previous week, have placed me under house arrest, prevented me from offering Friday prayers during the hafta shuda”, Mirwaiz alleged.

He said that it was shameful for the government not to allow people even to commemorate the anniversary of their beloved. He added that ‘sacrifices’ have left such an impression on Kashmiris, which can never fade out.

He said that Chief Minster Omar Abdullah was claiming that this was a battle of ideologies, but claimed that he (Omar) was resorting to oppression of voices by force. He said that Military and Police were being used to force the peace in the valley. “You can not claim a peaceful situation by creating enforcing peace in the valley”, Mirwaiz said.

Mirwaiz, while accepting that there were some internal problems in his faction of Hurriyat conference, said that these differences will be ironed out soon. “Hurriyat is a forum, not a party, hence differences are inevitable”, Mirwaiz asserted. However, he said that no one in the amalgam will be allowed to create indiscipline. “We will not allow any kind of indiscipline in Hurriyat.” Mirwaiz said. He added that Hurriyat had the guts to sort out the differences between themselves and no body needed to bother about them.

DM approached Mirwaiz for facilitation of Idgah march: Police

Mirwaiz ridicules police statement

Srinagar, May 21 (VOS):  Police on Monday claimed that a high level team led by District Magistrate Srinagar Baseer Ahmad Khan had approached Mirwaiz Umar Farooq to discuss the possibilities of his march to Idgah. However, according to police, Mirwaiz did not show any interest in meeting the officers.

In view of Sunday’s chaos at the Hurriyat office at Rajbagh, there was an apprehension that the clashes could have spilled onto the streets during today’s proposed march. As such this morning a team of district officers led by District magistrate went to meet Mirwaiz Omer Farooq for facilitation of the proposed march and rally at Idgah, however, Mirwaiz declined to meet the team. This situation left us with no option but to impose restrictions in some old city areas to avoid any breach of peace”, Police claimed in a statement to VOS on Monday evening.

However Hurriyat Conference (M) Chairman, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has ridiculed Police claims of having approached him, regarding the proposed march to Idgah and said that the police claims are bereft of any logic.

“They had already made it public last evening that the march won’t be allowed, so what was the fun of meting them”, Mirwaiz told VOS, adding that the Sunday episode at Hurriyat headquarters at Raj Bagh was used as an excuse by the government to sabotage the Hurriyat march. “It happened on Sunday, but they have placed me under house arrest even on Friday, so where does the logic of their argument  and the argument itself stand”, Mirwaiz asked.

Infant deaths ‘Murder’, FIR must be lodged: Tarigami, Hakeem

‘Visits only won’t solve the problem’

Srinagar, May 21 (VOS):  Terming the unabated infant deaths at G.B Panth hospital as murder, senior mainstream leaders Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami and Hakim Mohammad Yasin have urged government to lodge an FIR to initiate criminal proceedings against the hospital management and the erring doctors. They also demanded compensation   for parents who have lost their infants due to what they said ‘Human negligence’ in G.B Pant hospital. They have further said that mere visits by government functionaries and Politicians to medical facility were not enough.

“Here is the government that is unable to even lodge an FIR into the incident even after 380 infants have already died since January”, CPI (M) State Secretary Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami told VOS on Monday. He said that the deaths were the result of human negligence hence tantamount to ‘murder’. Tarigami said, “Government must compensate these families and lodge an FIR immediately into the incident.”

Meanwhile PDF Chairman and MLA Khansahab Hakeem Mohammad Yasin also demanded exgratia relief for the victim families and said that the mess at G.B Panth hospital was unfortunate. “We strongly demand that an FIR be lodged into the incident so that culprits can be booked and punished severely”, Yasin told VOS.

“Facilitators of Molvi Farooq’s murder sending condolences” : Sagar.

Pays tributes to late Mirwaiz, Lone

Srinagar, May 21 (VOS): Law and Parliamentary affairs Minster Ali Mohammad Sagar has lashed out at various politicians and said that the facilitators of the late Mirwaiz’s murder were now sending condolences.

“Those who facilitated Mirwaiz Molvi Farooq’s murder are now sending condolences to his family.” Sagar told VOS, adding that Late Mirwaiz was a visionary and high profile religious leader and scholar. “It is surprising that the people who actually should feel ashamed of their role in the killing of Mirwaiz are now shedding crocodile tears”, said Sagar.

Sagar while paying tributes to late Mirwaiz and Khawaja Ab. Gani Lone said that both were distinguished in their fields and had contributed to the society to a great extent. He also termed the late Khawja Lone as ‘outstanding and bold’.

Meanwhile CPI(M) state secretary Mohammad Yousf Tarigami and PDF Chairman Hakeem Mohammad Yasin and Panthers Party MLC  Syed Mohammad Rafiq Shah also paid tributes to Late Mirwaiz and Lone.

High mortality rate, accessibility responsible for deaths: Masoodi

‘Have been able to break the nexus at the hospital’

SRINAGAR, MAY 21(VOS): Medical Superintendent G.B Pant hospital Muneer Ahmad Masoodi has held national trend on infant mortality and improved road connectivity responsible for the recent deaths of children at Valley’s lone paediatric hospital here Monday. He also blamed the poor infrastructure at the rural hospitals for these deaths, which according to him results in heavy referral of sick children from such hospitals to the G.B Pant hospital.

Calling infant deaths a national phenomenon, the superintendent cited improved
road connectivity and other infrastructure, which provides easier access to the rural people to the hospital, as an important reason for high rate of deaths in the hospital.

“Earlier the deaths were happening in every village, but now after improved connectivity, all these patients are admitted in one hospital, as a result deaths were seen happening at one hospital. As a result it seems alarming. But the reality is that the mortality rate here is less as compared to national mortality rate”, declared Masoodi.

However, he in the same breath, admitted that the childcare facilities at the hospital were not up to the mark and if given time he would ensure improvement.
“I assure you that the hospital will be seen heading towards improvement on war
footing basis”, Masoodi said.
Upon asking by media person about his earlier statement where he had alleged that the hospital was run by Mafia, Masoodi said that he has been able to break the mafia to a great extent. “This mafia was not only active in this hospital, but the nexus prevails in various hospitals. We have broken that nexus and things will be
seen improving now”, he said.
Enumerating statistical facts regarding the neonatal and infant mortality in the country, Masoodi said that the state’s Infant Mortality Rate was better than the national average. “Today the ratio of infant deaths is 47 deaths per thousand live births at national level and in our state it is 42 per 1000 live births”, he stressed. Divulging the medical causes of these deaths, he said that if the weight of a new born baby is less than two Kilograms at the time of birth and is suffering from infection the chances of mortality are high. “Most of the deaths that have taken place here are from rural areas and the causes were malnutrition, infection and other social reasons”, he said.
“96 percent of the patients as per our admission records are from rural areas”, he said adding that due to this heavy inflow most of the critical patients are admitted at the hospital, some of which may die eventually.

Overhaul power distribution system: Tarigami

‘Overload, misuse Govt’s headache’

SRINAGAR, MAY 21(VOS): CPI (M) State Secretary and MLA Kulgam, Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami has exhorted the government to overhaul the state’s power distribution system to avoid public wrath, even as he rued the phenomenon of recurring damages to transformers across length and breadth of the state.

In a statement today, he said the government should strengthen men and machinery in the divisional and district workshops and ensure that damaged transformers are timely repaired so that consumers don’t suffer on account of electricity day on and day off.

“Lack of accountability and regular monitoring in the department have led to complete inertia among its rank and file putting the consumers to tremendous hardships”, he said.

         

“Why should our students, aged and other consumers suffer for months together after a transformer is damaged and why should the consumers be charged with tariff when they are deprived of the electricity for weeks together” he said, adding that  due to long black outs a simmering discontent is brewing  among people against the department. It is the department’s responsibility to check overloading and misuse of power rather than taking refuge under these pretences.

The government has absolutely no justification in depriving its own people from this vital basic facility especially in the wake of hike in the tariff slabs.

He also called for improving LT and HT network while calling for replacing old and worn out wires and poles. In Kulgam district, the power situation is very depressing due to damage of dozens of transformers that are not being repaired for months. The government should earmark sufficient funds at the disposal of the concerned to tide over the crisis.

Convert CICs into information hubs: CM

SRINAGAR, MAY 21(VOS): Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Monday while highlighting the need for rejuvenating Community Information Centres (CICs) directed for converting them into hubs of Information collection and dissemination. He also issued directions ffor merging their functioning with the established Panchayati Raj System in the state.

Addressing a high level meeting to discuss the issue of strengthening and upgrading CICs here, the Chief Minister asked the Information Technology and Rural Development Departments to jointly work out a viable model to use the CICs as centres for dissemination of vital information to the people in rural areas, particularly farmers.

Omar Abdullah said that the basic idea of establishing CIC was to bring in e-governance at block levels and keep information available to the people for various purposes in the process of development. “These are Centres to act as data banks and a digital route for filing reports and receiving information”, he said directing for integrating the Panchayat Raj System with the functioning of CICs.

The Chief Minister said the Jammu and Kashmir e-governance Agency (JaKeGA) has an important role to get involved in strengthening the CICs and making them viable block level vital information delivery units. He said that information regarding weather, cropping pattern, market trends and other aspects can be obtained and provided to the people through these centres besides other such information.

He asked the IT department to ascertain the status of functions of CICs in North East states and accordingly modal the module to operate in the state.

Speaking in the meeting the Minister for Rural Development, Ali Mohammad Sagar said that upgradation of the functioning of CICs to befit in the Panchayat Raj System established in the state need to be worked out in a time bound manner.

He also said that the new change crept in the development concept in the field of rural development area in the state after the establishment of Panchayati Raj and called for flagging the effective functioning of CICs as basic information providing centers. He said that a strategy has to be worked out to bring these canters at par with the growing needs of people in rural areas so as to strengthen e-governance.

The meeting was attended by Minister of State for Rural Development, Ajaz Ahmed Khan, Chief Secretary, Madhav Lal, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister, B. B. Vyas, Commissioner Secretary, Rural Development, Farooq Ahmed Peer, Secretary, IT, M.A Bukhari and other senior officers were present in the meeting.

The meeting discussed various measures to be taken to best utilize CICs for providing information to the people in rural areas. The Commissioner Secretary, Rural Development gave the background and status of the 135 CICs established in as many blocks in the state. The Secretary IT presented vision document for the strengthening and upgrading these units to serve to the people in an appropriate manner.

Salvation movement condemns Mirwaiz, Zafar’s house arrest

SRINAGAR, MAY 21(VOS): Spokesman of Kashmir Salvation Movement Monday strongly condemned the restrictions on Hurriyat Conference leaders including its Chairman Mirwaiz Umer Farooq. Shabir Ahmed Shah, Nayeem Ahmed Khan, Yasmeen raja, M.Y Naqash

A large contingent of Police and CRPF had been deployed outside their houses and were asked not to move, according to the spokesperson

Vice chairman and APHC leader AJK chapter Tufail Altaf Bhat also condemned the house arrest of Zaffar Akber Bhat and others. He said that the government cannot suppress the ongoing liberation movement by resorting to such tactics. “Martyrs have given their lives for Independence of Kashmir and Kashmiris will get it soon Inshallah”, the spokesperson said.

Mir pays homage to Moulana Farooq, Gani lone

SRINAGAR, MAY 21(VOS): Minister for Agriculture, Ghulam Hassan Mir Monday paid rich tributes to Mirwiaz Moulana Farooq and Abdul Gani lone on their death anniversary and former Prime Minister of India late Rajiv Gandhi.

In his statement, Mir has said that they (Mirwaiz and Lone) were the leaders of masses and contributed a lot for the welfare of the society.

The Minister said that Moulana Farooq enriched the society with religious teachings besides set up number of educational institutions to provide free education to the children of poor masses. He said his contribution for communal harmony will be remembered for ever.

Mir said that Lone was a visionary political leader and he worked throughout his life for the upliftment of poor particularly for the people of border district Kupwara.. 

Mir also paid rich tributes to Late Rajiv Gandhi the prime minister of India.

Mir asks DC Baramulla to assess hailstorm damages

SRINAGAR, MAY 21(VOS): Minster for Agriculture Ghulam Hassan Mir has expressed Shock over the damage caused to horticulture produce and paddy saplings due to hailstorm in Tangmarg assembly constituency.

The minister directed Deputy commissioner Baramulla to setup a team of officers  of revenue, agriculture and horticulture departments for assessing the damages to crops and fruits.

He asked the Deputy Commissioner to submit the report to the government within two weeks so that the farmers could be compensated under Natural Calamity Fund.

Karnah depicts depressing picture of govt’s inefficiency: PDP

SRINAGAR, MAY 21(VOS): Peoples Democratic Party Monday lashed at the coalition government headed by National Conference for ignoring the far flung areas, which according to them continue to suffer in the absence of basic amenities of life.

In a statement, after a daylong tour of Karnah constituency in Kupwara district, PDP chief spokesperson Naeem Akhtar alleged that corruption and inefficiency of government have added to the miseries of common masses in the far flung areas like Karnah.

“The tall claims of prosperity and development seems only limited to the official documents and press statements of the ruling parties”, he said adding that far flung areas like Karnah still struggle for the basic necessities like electricity, roads, health and communication.

He said that the benefits of central sponsored schemes like PMGSY were not being extended to the people of far flung areas, mainly due to the strict norms fixed by the central ministry. “The government is unable to provide the work under PMGSY to its blue-eyed contractors due to the strict norms as such the scheme has almost been shelved in the area”, he said.

He added that from the last sixty years road from Tangdhar to Teetwal and Tangdhar to Amrohi were awaiting completion. The health institutions, including the government hospital at Chamkote, were without the requisite staff while the college established in the year 2006 continues to function in two-rooms accommodation.

Akhtar said that the people have been deprived of the communication facilities. “The landline telephony was almost defunct while the government has not permitted the mobile phone services in the area for some unknown reasons”.

He said that nepotism and corruption has reached at an alarming stage and contractors have become synonymous to National Conference in the area. “Making the things worst, whatever little money was being spent in the area, it was being ensured that the contracts were allotted to blue-eyed and kith and kins of ruling class”.

 He said that despite having huge tourism potential, the government is yet to include Karnah on the tourist map. The Cross LoC Travel from Teetwal has been reduced to a symbolic gesture only denying benefit not only to the intending visitors but even the local population, which could have seen an economic boost if the same spot was used for Cross LoC Trade as well.

Member Legislative Assembly from Lolab and District President PDP Abdul Haq Khan, Advocate Raja Manzoor, Zone President, and Muhammad Afzal Wani also accompanied Naeem Akhtar.

Won’t allow personal benefits out of sacrifices: Nayeem Khan

SRINAGAR, MAY 21(VOS): Senior Resistance Leader and National Front Chairman Nayeem Ahmad Khan, Monday said that nobody will be allowed to make personal benefits out of the sacrifices rendered by the ‘martyrs’. He was addressing a gathering of people at Mazar-e-Shuhda Chandi Lora Tangmarg on telephone to commemorate the anniversary of Shaheed Professor Waheed .

“Shaheed Professor Waheed’s anniversary programme was organized by Jammu Kashmir National Front but Chairman Nayeem Ahmad Khan was not allowed to move out of his residence and was put under house arrest”, read a statement issued by Khan adding that he addressed the People through telephone and paid rich tributes to Shaheed Professor Waheed , other martyrs of Tangmarg and the martyrs of 21st May including Shuhda-e- Hawal.

Nayeem Ahmad Khan made it clear that nobody will be allowed to make personal benefits out of the sacrifices rendered by the Martyrs. “Martyrs have sacrificed their lives only to achieve freedom from India and nobody will be allowed to change the course of the movement”, he said.

National front general secretary advocate Hilal Ahmad , Ryaz Ahmad and others also addressed the gathering.

Malik Promoted

Srinagar, May 21 (VOS) : Assistant Regional Transport Officer Pulwama Malik Tahir has been promoted and posted as Deputy Director in State Motor Garages(Kashmir). A Govt, order by Principal Secretary  to Transport Department under number  41-TR OF2012 Dtd. 21-5-2012  was issued in this regard on Monday. Malik has served as ARTO in Baramullah, Kupwara, Anantnag and Pulwama districts and has been widely hailed for his outstanding performance.

Meanwhile employees of the motor garages have welcomed Malik’s posting in the garages and have hoped that the young officer would work for the betterment of the department.

Don’t play politics over GB Pant- NC

“PDP taking sadistic pleasure out of this incident”

Srinagar 21 May (KNS): The National Conference today attacked the politicians who are playing with the sentiments of the people who lost their babies in the GB Pant hospital. The Spokesman, Tanvir Sadiq while reacting to various press conferences from leaders of political parties said that it’s shameful that they are playing politics and trying to mantle the role of messiah when they are clearly making the situation worse.

The Spokesman said that the party is pained and shares the sorrow with the families who lost their babies adding that some leaders are projecting and attacking the government instead of trying to support Chief Minister Omar Abdullah who is trying to overhaul the whole hospital to ensure that all the facilities are available to the patients. Tanvir said that keeping in view the gravity of the situation the Chief Minister had himself stepped in and ensured that steps are taken to strengthen existing infrastructure and equipment in the hospitals by providing required equipment, upgrading diagnostic facilities and ensuring timely supply of medicines.

 “Omar Sahib is pained and shares the sorrow with the families of the babies and had personally visited the hospital, took immediate steps and ensured that an upright and experienced Doctor heads it” said Tanvir adding that “he met the civil society members and agreed to all their demands to ensure all facilities are available to the patients”, Tanvir added “why are some leaders trying to take political mileage out of it”

Terming the Statement of PDP president as shameful and in utter bad taste the spokesman said that she takes sadistic pleasure out of the miseries of the people otherwise why instead of acting as a healthy opposition and demanding a meeting with the authorities to know the steps taken she in a public meeting talks about such a sensitive issue

“The PDP president took sadistic pleasure out of the incident in GB Pant” adding that “how can she stoop so low and take political advantage out of this as well” said Tanvir

Meanwhile, The spokesman said that on the instruction of the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah the Health department has already initiated the process of formulation of Detailed Project report (DPR) for the construction of new 200-bedded pediatric hospital at Srinagar adding that the seriousness can been seen by the immediate identification of the land for the hospital at Dewan Bagh.

Meanwhile NC MLA Yaseen Shah, D.S. Oberio and G.N. Pardesi have appreciated the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for taking immediate steps with regards to GB Pant Hospital.

Hurriyat (G) demands Omar’s resignation

‘Deaths at G.B Pant, a planned genocide’

Srinagar 21 May (KNS): Hurriyat Conference (G) in statement here Monday has expressed serious concern over the continuous deaths of children at the G.B Pant hospital. In a statement the conglomerate has asked the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah to take moral responsibility for the deaths and tender his resignation.

“If Omar Abdullah has a conscience, he should accept the moral responsibility of the deaths and tender his resignation”, read the statement.

Once again terming the deaths of children at G.B Pant hospital as genocide, the conglomerate has said that non availability of medicine, equipment and other requirements are responsible for these deaths. The statement further added that all these things are basically caused by mis-governance at the hands of the Omar Abdullah government.

The spokesman futher alleged that the state government functionaries lack is sense of responsibility  and criticized them for mobilizing huge machinery to curb stray dogs and not giving any attention to human lives.

Alleging that the lack of proper medicare facilities at G.B Pant hospital were a part of conspiracy of the Government of India which according to the statement considers Kashmir its colony, the spokesperson said, “The state administration is directly under the control of union home ministry and the local rulers were mere foot soldiers”.

The statement also termed the recent deaths of children as genocide of Kashmiris and alleged the government of committing target killings of youth. “On one hand the state is killing our youth through target killings and on the other our infants are being killed through nefarious designs of genocide”, said the spokesperson.

“If an incident of this sort happens anywhere else in the world, the rulers would accept the moral responsibility and tender resignation but the Omar government and its ministers lack the sense of moral responsibility “, the statement added.

The statement also castigated the government for what it calls the illegal and atrocious treatment met out to its jailed leaders.

The statement further appealed the Amnesty International and Red Cross to take cognizance of the condition of Hurriyat leader Mir Hareezullah in the Hiranagar Jail in Jammu, who according to the statement is being meted out inhuman treatment in the jail.

Siddiq e Akbar RA conference stresses for unity among Muslims, pays tributes to Moulana Mohammad Farooq

Srinagar 21 May (KNS):  Jammu and Kashmir Himayat ul Islam has underscored the need for following the footsteps of Hazrat Abu Bakre Siddiq (RA) in order to remain united and overcome the so called sectarian issues created by vested interests among the Muslims of Kashmir.

In a day long Siddiq-e-Akbar conference held at Dargah Hazrat Mir Syed Shah Mohammad Sadiq Qalander RA, Lar Ganderbal, the speakers highlighted the role of the “staunchest follower of Islam” who brought unity among the Muslims, crushed all the rebellions and removed all confusions at a critical moment during his period as Khalifae Rasoolullah SAW.

The speakers enlightened the audience on multi- dimensional personality of Hazrat Abu Bakr RA as nearest and dearest companion of Prophet Mohammad SAW, staunch follower of Quran and Sharia, warrior and savior of Islam, truthful and charactered person and lover of Rasullulah SAW.

They said that the organizers had decided to hold the conference at the dargah of the famous saint of Naqashbandia order in view of the fact that  Hazrat Abu Bakr RA happens to be the founder of the Naqashbandia order in Islam that preaches for worship of Allah in the true spirit of Quran and Sunnah.

The conference also paid rich tributes to Shahidi Millat Moulana Mohammad Farooq on his martyrdom anniversary who sacrificed his life for the unity among muslims of Kashmir.

The conference, presided over by Syed Siraj-ud-Din Qalander, was addressed, by Moulana Showkat Hussain Keng, Moulana Khurshid Ahmad Qanoongo, Moulana Altaf Hussain Rafiqui, Jenab Ghulam Rasool Shola, Syed Shakeel Qalander and others. Dr. Dil Mohammad Makhdoomi made a power point presentation on life history of Hazeat Siddiq Akbar RA. While Peerzadah Fayaz Ahmad Khushkhwan recited verses from Holy Quran, Javaid Ahmad presented a Naat. A galaxy of audience participated in the day long conference.

Agriculture Minister calls on Governor

           SRINAGAR, MAY 21 - Mr. Ghulam Hassan Mir, Minister for Agriculture, called on Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, at Raj Bhavan here today.

          During their meeting, the Governor and the Agriculture Minister discussed several important issues relating to the research and developmental goals of the two State Farm Universities, at Jammu and Kashmir. They also discussed the implementation of priority Agriculture sector schemes and programmes and the measures under way for the farmers being timely supplied with the required technical know-how, fertilizers, high yielding variety seeds, other agricultural inputs etc for enhancing agri-productivity and production in the State. They also discussed various matters relating to the diversification of agriculture with a view to encouraging cultivation of low volume-high value crops and the promotion of dairy and poultry farming.    

          Other important issues relating to the speedy socio-economic development of the State also came up for discussion during the meeting.

Rs 4.91 cr project for development of Dodhpathri under CFA on anvil: Jora

SRINAGAR, MAY 21: Minister for Tourism and Culture, Mr. Nawang Rigzin Jora has said that tourism potential of Dodpathari is being explored fully by creation of tourist related infrastructure and development of scenic spots of the area. He said to upgrade infrastructure facilities at the destination the government has submitted a project of Rs 4.91 crore to Union Ministry of Tourism for approval of funding.

This was stated by the Minister while chairing the Dodhpathri Development Authority (DDA) meeting held here today, to review the physical and financial achievements registered by Authority for development of Dodpathri destination.

Minister of State for Tourism, Culture and Home, Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani and Member Legislative Assembly Khan Sahib Constituency, Hakeem Mohammad Yasin were present in the meeting.

Commissioner/Secretary Tourism and Culture, Mr. Atul Duloo, Director Tourism Kashmir, Mr. Talat Parvez, Chief Engineers R&B, PHE, Chief Executive Officer, Dodhpathri Development Authority, senior officers and engineers of Tourism, Planning, Forests, Electric, Revenue and other concerned departments attended the meeting.

The Meeting was informed that construction work of Tourist Reception Center and Budgeted Accommodation at Dodhpathri taken up under Centrally Sponsored Schemes at the total estimated cost of Rs.6.90 crore are apace and would be completed during this fiscal.

The meeting was also informed that under State Sector of Rs 4.70 crore have been expended on creation of various tourists related infrastructure at the destination during last two years.

The Meeting also reviewed provision of road connectivity, drinking water and electricity facilities being  provided at the destination for convenience of tourists .It was informed that work on water supply Scheme Dodhpathri  have been taken up at  a cost of Rs 1.50 crore , pipes have been laid and other work would be stated soon. It was told that macadamization of road up to Reyar has been completed and beyond the said place 4 kmt macadamization work of the road would be completed during current fiscal.

Regarding providing electricity facility at the destination the PDD would complete electrification work up to Tourist Reception Centre Dodhpathri by end of June this year. It was informed that government has already released Rs 38.21 lakh for the purpose and further about Rs 45 lakh would be released this year to complete the electrification work at the destination.

Issues like construction of Golf Course, renovation of huts, installing of Cable Car, construction of Cafeteria, Chowkidar huts, road connectivity to Sochalpathri, trekking to  Chanz and Ashtar, road connectivity to Tosa Maidan, Sukhnag River Development, Development of Ziyarat Shiekh Noor-din-Noorani,  provision of tent facility at Dodhpathri, Development of land adjacent to TRC and shrine of Shiekh Noor-Din Noorani (RA) were other issues which came under discussion and appropriate decisions made by the meeting in this regard.

Mr. Jora called upon the concerned authorities to ensure completion of time bound infrastructure at the destination so that visiting tourists would not face any inconvenience. He said that while building the infrastructure, the natural scenic beauty of the destination should not be harmed at any cost. 

Sham reviews Shri Amarnath Yatra arrangements

 Calls for a well-knit strategy for smooth yatra

 SRINAGAR, MAY 21: Minister for Health, Horticulture & Floriculture, Mr. Sham Lal Sharma today called for a well-knit strategy and formulating a contingency plan to handle the ensuing Shri Amarnathji Yatra in the State.

Addressing a high-level meeting of officers in his office chamber which was convened to review the arrangements of yatra, the Minister asked the officers to initiate all necessary measures well in advance for successful yatra. The yatra, as per schedule would begin from June 25.

Stressing the need for adopting a coordinated approach to meet any eventuality on both the yatra tracks, the Minister said that every individual should be made accountable towards his/her duties during the entire yatra period. He asked for purchase of adequate stock of essential medicines, oxygen cylinders and other connected things associated with healthcare well in advance for meeting the requirements at all strategic points and yatra base camps at Pahalgam and Baltal. He asked for strictly following the advisory of the expert committee on yatra and setting up a special task-force to meet any emergency.

The Minister directed both the Directors Health Services to personally supervise the arrangements during the entire yatra period, right from the gateway of Jammu and Kashmir, Lakhanpur to holly cave in order to avoid any untoward incident. He hoped that number of pilgrims may go up this year and Department should make arrangements accordingly.

Secretary Health & Medical Education, Mr. Manoj K. Dwivedi, Mission Director, NRHM Dr. Yashpal Sharma, Directors Health Services, Kashmir/Jammu, Dr. Saleem-ur-Rehman, Dr. Madhu Khullar, Chief Medical Officers, Anantnag/Ganderbal and concerned Block Medical Officers and officers of Planning and Finance were present in the meeting.

Earlier, the Minister inaugurated a one-day blood donation camp, organized by the health department in the Kashmir Nursing Home, Gupkar Road here. The camp was organized as a tribute to the former Prime Minister of India, late Rajiv Gandhi on his Martyr Day (Balidan Divas). More than two dozen volunteers, including doctors, para-medics and jawans of para-military forces donated blood on the occasion.

Junior National Tong-IL Moo-Do championship

J&K won 14 gold, 20 silver & 29 bronze medals

SRINAGAR, MAY 21:  3^rd Junior National Tong-IL Moo-Do Championship, 2012 inaugurated by the chief guest and President Tong-IL Moo-Do Federation of India, Mr. Sudhir Malik today at Indoor Stadium, Srinagar in which over 750 players of the country participated.

The Spokesman of the National Conference, Mr. Tanvir Sadiq was Guest of Honour who welcomed the players and wished them all the best to have all the praises for J&K Tong-IL Moo-Do Association.

Speaking on the occasion, the President, Tong-IL Moo-Do, Mr. Sudhir Malik lauded the efforts of the Association.

                The function was attended by General Secretary, Mr. Mohammad Arshid, Chairperson, J&K Tong-IL Moo-Do Association, Mrs. Meenashaki Sharma, President, JKTMD, Mr. Ghulam Nabi Wani, Secretary, JKTMD, Mr. Arshid Aziz, Senior Vice President JKTMD, Sheikh Javid, Chief Publicity Secretary, JKTMD, Mr. Showkat Ahmad Baqal and other dignitaries.

                The Jammu and Kashmir team won 14 gold, 20 silver and 29 bronze medals, Delhi won 9 gold, 4 silver and 3 bronze medals, Gujarat won 3 gold, 1 bronze medals, Madhya Pradesh won 1 bronze medal and Utter Pradesh won 1 gold.

Section 144 imposed in Sgr

                        SRINAGAR, MAY 21: The District Magistrate, Srinagar has imposed Section 144 Cr. P.C to prevent any kind of breach of peace and tranquility in Srinagar district. By virtue of this order there will be restrictions on the assembly of five or more than five persons within the territorial limits of Srinagar district. However, this order shall not be applicable to Government sponsored functions, marriages, funerals, cremations, examinations etc.

                This order will have effect for a period of two months.

Govt committed to upgrade sports infrastructure in state: Chib

 ‘Gives away trophies, medals’

SRINAGAR, MAY 21: Minister for Medical Education, Youth Service and Sports Mr. R S Chib today said the present Government under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah is committed to upgrade existing sports infrastructure for promotion of sports culture in the state.

The Minister was speaking at the valedictory function of 3^rd Junior National Tong-il-Moo-Do championship-2012. The 3-day championship was organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Tong-il-Moo-Do Association in collaboration with Tong-il-Moo-Do Federation of India. 

Mr. Chib said that to improve sports infrastructure in the state, various micro and mega sports projects have been taken into hand by the government. He said the government has also initiated various steps for the encouragement of ace players of the state.  

The Minister said that a Tong-il-Moo-Do sport is a combination of martial art used to defend ourselves. He said it is a Korean Sports and is getting recognition in other countries of the world also.

Mr. Chib complimented the organizers for holding national championship in the state, adding that such events provide an opportunity of interaction to the participants. He said the interaction during the competitions help to know the culture and traditions of one another and strengthen the bond of amity and national integration. 

As many as 650 players from seven states including host state, across the country participated during the championship. These are Gujarat, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Delhi and Chandigarh. 

Later, the Minister gave away prizes and medals among the players.

Among others, Secretary, J&K State Sports Council Mr. Kiran Wattal, Chairperson, Tong-il-Moo-Do Federation of India, Mrs. Meenakshi Sharma, President, Jammu and Kashmir Tong-il-Moo-Do Association Mr. Raja Ghulam Nabi Wani, besides sports lovers were present.

Fresh anti-NATO protests to resume in Chicago‎

Fresh anti-NATO demonstrations are set to be held in the US city of Chicago at 0330 GMT one day after police clashed with protesters, Press TV reports.

Thousands of Americans took part in Sunday's peaceful rally to show their anger at the war-mongering policies of the Western military alliance. 

Chicago police arrested scores of anti-war activists to quell the protests. Dozens of people were injured during police clashes with demonstrators. 

"They wanted the trouble… I don't mess with the cops. I tried to be respectful. They are looking for it [trouble]," one of the protesters told Press TV. 

"There has not been any violence on the part of the protesters. So I don't understand why if somebody's sitting or standing they have to be hit by clubs, there is really no reason for that," another demonstrator argued. 

More than a third of the Chicago police force has been assigned for the protests. They have been supplemented by thousands of cops from the state police and other law enforcement agencies from other states under the supervision of the FBI. 

Anti-NATO demonstrators demanded an end to destructive wars. The two-day NATO summit will be wrapped up on Monday.