SRINAGAR, THURSDAY, 05 ZUL HIJJAH 1433 AH ; 31 OCTOBER 2012

Email:-editorvosgr@gmail.com

Writers, scholars deliberate on challenges, opportunities for Kashmiri language

            SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 31: The 2-day conference on ‘Kashmiri languages: challenges and opportunities’ took off here today with a galaxy of scholars and experts deliberating on the issue and putting up suggestions to address it.

Organized by Jammu & Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture & Languages to promote languages, the conference has participants from within and outside J&K. It is a serious literary activity undertaken by the Academy in a long time. A similar conference on Dogri language will be held next month at Jammu.

            The Conference was inaugurated by Minister for Finance, Mr. Abdul Rahim Rather while noted poet Prof. Rehman Rahi presided the inaugural session. Writer Ghulam Nabi Aatish presented the keynote address. A large number of writers, poets and intellectuals attended the inaugural session. Prominent participants included Prof. Margoob Banhali, Mrs. Bimla Raina, Mr. Ghulam nabi Khayal, Mr Ayaz Nazki, Prof Mohammad Zaman Azurda, Prof Bashar Bashir, Dr. Aziz Hajini, B.N. Betaab, Mr. Shujat Bukhari, Prof Farooq Fayaz, Prof Majroh Rashid, Dr. Rattan Lal Talashi, Prof H.K Khar, Manshoor Banhali, besides Fida Rajourvi. 

            In his address, Mr. Rather called for collective efforts to off-set challenges confronting the Kashmiri language. He suggested to constitute a Task Force of prominent Kashmiri writers who could follow implementation of the recommendation of this 2-day Conference persistently with the higher authorities both at political as well as bureaucratic levels. He said Kashmiri language has centuries old glorious past with a rich treasure of literature and poetry adding that it is one of the rich languages in Northern India. He said Kashmiri language is spoken by about 66 percent population spread in length and breadth of the State including Kishtwar, Dachan, Marwa, Wadwa and Gurez. The language is also spoken in the Chamba valley of Himachal Pradesh, he added.

            In his thought provoking address, Mr. Rather gave a complete narration of the history of Kashmiri language, literature and poetry right from the period of sufi poets like Lal Ded, Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Wali (RA), Shams Faqir adding that the poetry of Lal Ded has been highlighted even by Time Magazine, New York. Likewise about 19 books have been published on the poetry of Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Wali (RA) in Kanad language.

            Mr. Rather also quoted verses depicting richness of the Kashmiri in the fields of Sufism and mysticism, the legacy carried forward by Lal Ded, Sheikh-ul-Alam, Shamas Faqir and Rasa Javdani, romantic poetry of Rasool Mir and the revolutionary and patriotic poetry of even G.A. Mehjoor, Abdul Ahad Azad and A.R. Rahi who transformed it for progressive and socialist movements like “Walo Ho Bagwanoo Now Baharech Shan Paida Kar” Pholan Gul Gath Karan Bulbul Tithi Saman Paida Kar” who is not impressed by the Mathnavis of Wahab Hajni and “Gulrez” of Maqbool Shah Kralwari, Mr. Rather reminded.

            Mr. Rather lauded the initiatives taken by the Secretary, Culture Academy, Mr. Khalid Bashir to provide a platform to the think tank of Kashmiri language for seeking solution to the problems and challenges confronting Kashmiri language. He said struggle for promotion of Kashmiri language is a noble cause which needs to be pursued by the all stakeholders with more dedication and devotion.   

The highlight of the post-inaugural session was an illuminating theme paper on the topic of the conference presented by noted poet and Gnanpeeth awardee, Prof. Rehman Rahi.

On the culminating day, six papers will be presented on topics Kashmiri language in the academic backdrop, Kashmiri language and journalism, Kashmiri language in the cyber age, Kashmiri language and lexicography, Kashmiri language and issues of translation and Kashmiri language and curriculum. Prominent writers and academics Prof Margoob Banihali, Ghulam Nabi Khayal, Prof Shafi Shoque, Prof H. K. Kher, Dr. Rattan Lal Talashi and Dr. Aziz Hajini will present their papers tomorrow. Each presentation will be followed by discussion and question-answer session.

Earlier, in his welcome address, Secretary Academy, Khalid Bashir Ahmad said that the objective of the conference was to take a holistic view of Kashmiri language in the backdrop of the challenges it is confronting with and the opportunities that lay in its way. He said that most of the languages of the word that were not oriented with employment or science and technology today face the issue of survival and Kashmiri language could be no exception. “It is very important to make the language relevant to the modern times to ensure its survival and promotion”, he added and hoped that the conference would generate fruitful and healthy debate unraveling many positives that otherwise remain hidden from the eyes in a situation of disillusionment.

Div Com reviews availability of essential

commodities in Kashmir division

            SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 31: Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Dr. Asgar Hassan Samoon today reviewed stock and supply position of essential commodities i.e Rice, Atta, Sugar, Kerosene Oil, LPG, Petroleum products etc. in the Valley including Leh, Kargil and Border Areas. It was informed in the meeting by CAPD authorities that presently 34216 metric tons of Rice, 6860 metric tons of Wheat/Atta and 2752 metric tons of Sugar and about 253700 cylinders of LPG are available in the Valley.

            Representatives of different oil companies informed the meeting that about 368150 cylinders were distributed in the month of October among the consumers and requisite formalities for 65 percent KYC have been completed. The date of KYC has been extended upto November 15, 2012.

It was also informed that against monthly allocation of 4836 kilo liters of kerosene oil for the month of October, 4594 kilo liters of kerosene oil were lifted by the department till date and distributed among rationees.

            The Chief Engineer Mechanical said that 97 snow cutting machines have been kept ready for snow clearance. Divisional Commissioner asked R&B and Mechanical authorities to establish joint Control Room by November 15, 2012 to tackle any situation during due to snowfall and is cleared within 24 hours after fall.

            Chief Engineer Power Development Department informed that in transformer bank there are 110 transformers in buffer and about 138 transformers are damaged.

            Divisional Commissioner stressed for timely repair of these damaged transformers and preparedness for any eventuality during snow fall like replacement of damaged poles/wires etc.

            He also stressed for preparedness of Disaster Management plan so that any eventuality can be tackled effectively so that prevention measures of Relief, Rescue and Rehabilitation are ensured and also asked the Traffic authorities to keep recovery vans at all the conspicuous places in and around the Jawahar Tunnel.

            The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Additional Commissioner SMC, Chief Engineers R&B, PDD (EM&RE Wing), PHE, Beacon, Mechanical Kashmir, representative of 15 Corps APO 56, Senior Superintendent of Police Traffic, Additional Deputy Commissioners of all districts, Joint Director Information Kashmir, Deputy Director CA&PD and representatives of Oil Companies.  

Govt Women’s College celebrates annual day

            SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 31: Government Women’s College, M.A Road celebrated its annual day with great pomp and show here today.

            Minister for Higher Education, Labour and Employment, Mr. Abdul Gani Malik was the chief guest on the occasion while as Secretary Higher Education, Gazanfar Hussain was the guest of honour. The function started with College Tarana written by Prof Naseem Shafai.

            Addressing the function, the Minister said that there is a dire need to provide better guidance and counseling to the students before taking up any stream of their choice. He said the students are to be prepared to face the challenges at global level by providing them exposure in day to day changes in the field of education.

            Referring to the steps taken by the government in this behalf, the Minister said that several concrete steps have already been taken to modernize and universalize the education particularly at higher level but there is room for improvement in every field and all the functionaries of the government, teachers and parents have to play a pivotal role for transformation of society and education system as well.

            Lauding the role of college administration in providing quality education to the students, Mr. Malik said that Government Women’s College, M.A Road is one of the old colleges in the state which has attained level of excellence during last five decades. He said that the college has particularly contributed a lot in popularizing female education and several luminaries have come out of the college and have proved their mettle in administration, academics as well as scientific fields.

            Secretary Higher Education while addressing the function said that the celebration of annual day provides an opportunity to showcase the achievements registered by the college during last academic session and also proposals come up for future plans so that the college attains prosperity and progress.

            Stressing upon the students to work hard and to earn laurels for the college as well as for the state, Mr. Hussain said that mere bagging of positions is not enough, but the students should be able to express their thoughts through presentations on various topics. He asked the college authorities to work for attaining goals set for their college in future.

            Earlier, Principal of the College, Prof Tanveer Ara welcomed the dignitaries and apprised about the achievements registered by the college during previous academic session. Various Principals of city colleges attended the function. They include Prof Tariq Kawoosa, Prof. Zahoor Chatt, Prof. Tibet Baqal, Prof. Nazir Ahmad Gilkar and Prof. Rifat.  

            Coordinator, Women’s studies, Dr. Yasmeen Ashai presented NAAC report on the occasion.

            The Minister also released a newspaper of the College, “Harbinger”, published by Mass Communication and Multimedia Production Department of the college.

            The students of the college presented a scintillating cultural bonanza depicting composite culture of the state.

            Later, an award ceremony was held in which the best Qari, Ms. Shabnam was felicitated with trophy and certificate by the Minister. Besides, the students who had obtained high merit in academics, sports and extracurricular activities were also awarded with trophies and certificates.

Altaf visits Kangan Constituency takes stock

of various dev works

Says all villages shall be connected through road network

Rs. 4.62 Cr expended on various projects under PMGSY.

            SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 31:– Minister for Forest Environment and Ecology, Mr. Mian Altaf Ahmad today conducted an extensive tour of Kangan Constituency and took stock of the pace of developmental works being executed in the area under PMGSY scheme.

During the tour, the Minister visited various areas including Nunar, Kawbagh, Shajinar, Urpash, Gutlibagh, New Basti Banjer, Chatergul, Kangan besides other villages of the Constitutency.

The Minister was accompanied by the Superintend Engineer, PMGSY, Mr. T K Sadhu, Executive Engineer, Mr. Mohammad Iqbal, Tehsildar Ganderbal and other concerned officers.

Mian Altaf directed concerned authorities to speed up the pace of ongoing developmental works under PMGSY schemes and complete all the works within the stipulated time.

 Making mention of the developmental programmes executed in Kangan Constituency, the Minister said that a network of road connectivity, better healthcare facilities, infrastructure for educational institutions, improvement in supply of electricity and drinking water have been provided, adding that more needs to be done for the people of the area.

During his tour, several deputations of these areas called on the Minister and put forth various issues pertaining to macadamization of roads, electricity, drinking water and health care facilities.

The Minister gave patient hearing to them and assured that their genuine demands would be taken up with the concerned authorities for early redressal.

Mr. Altaf said, from last several years various developmental projects have been executed in the Constituency to improve the socio-economic profile of the people and with the completion of these projects better facilitates are being extended to the people. He urged upon the people to come forward and avail benefits of the centrally and State sponsored welfare schemes meant for them. He also called for people’s cooperation for carrying forward the development tempo for bringing the State on the new horizons of development.

The Minister was informed that out of allotted Rs.13.93 crores under PMGSY, about Rs. 4.62 crores have been utilized on various projects so far.

Mian Altaf also directed the officers of PMGSY to conduct a survey for road connectivity between Chathergul and Bathpora and submit the project at an earliest besides, completing all ongoing works in the Constituency.

Sagar underscores the need for equal opportunities to women

            SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 31: Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar has underscored the need for providing equal opportunities to women in different fields of life.

            The Minister was speaking in a seminar on Gender Discrimination Policy in Media organized by All India Centre for Urban and Rural Development (AICURD) and sponsored by Freidrich Ebert Stiftung, India here today.

            Mr. Sagar said that women have proved their mettle when they have been given an opportunity and there is a dire need for providing opportunities to them to excel in various fields. “We have to ensure that opportunities in every field and facet of life are provided to everybody irrespective of the gender biases in order to make the society a broad based one”, he added.

            The Minister said that women have a pivotal role in the socio-economic as well as political sphere. He said that the government is abreast of the fact and various initiatives have already been undertaken by the state government for ensuring their equal and broad based participation in different fields is it political, educational or economic.

            Mr. Sagar also called for the need for removing the gender biases which are existing in the society and said that the onus lies on the younger generation to ensure that the same is effectively done away with. He said that in the present age of globalization the biases present, if any, are to be removed and the persons related with the media and other fields should come forward and work effectively for the same.

            Various speakers also spoke on the occasion, which include Deputy Director General, Prasar Bharati Corporation of India, Lecturers from Kashmir University, Central universities, media professionals besides students.

Div Com reviews stock position of essential commodities, summary revision of electoral rolls at Gurez

            BANDIPORA, OCTOBER 31: As many as 21350 quintals of rice, 13275 quintals of atta, 1672 quintals of sugar, 1.04 lakh liters of k-oil besides 4300 LPG cylinders have been stocked in border tehsil Gurez of Bandipora district for the winter season which would be sufficient for the next eight months.

            This was stated during a high level meeting of officers held at Bandipora today with Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, Dr. Asgar Hassan Samoon in chair.  The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, Manzoor Ahmad Lone, SP Bandipora besides other officers.

            During the meeting, stock and supply position besides drinking water, medicare, electricity and other facilities were discussed threadbare.

            Earlier, the Divisional Commissioner reviewed the preparation of electoral rolls and other issues relating to draft rolls during a joint meeting of BLO’s and political parties.

            It was given out in the meeting that 263 polling stations have been established for 195985 electorates comprising of 102688 male and 93297 female voters of the three constituencies of the district besides 67 percent of Electoral Photo Identity Cards have also been distributed among the electorates.

            The District Election Officer through Power Point Presentation displayed the activities carried out with regard to draft rolls, carried out with regard to draft rolls, distribution of EPIC’s, receiving of forms etc, number of polling stations, holding of training programmes etc.

            Dr. Samoon accompanied by District Development Commissioner, Bandipora later inspected various development projects and issued directions for early completion of these projects.

Filling of claims and objections extended upto Nov 20

            SRINAGAR, OCTOBER 31: Consequent upon the requests for the extension of the period of filling claims and objections, the Election Commission of India, in exercise of the powers conferred by proviso to Rule 1960 has extended the date for filling of claims and objections.

            The period for filling of claims and objections has been extended upto November 20, 2012 for the ongoing special summary revision of electoral rolls with reference to January 01, 2013 as the qualifying date.

Amarnath Controversy:

Journalists carry out aerial survey of Baltal route; see no construction material, activity

Misconception being created, needed to be cleared: IGP

“No activity on Pahalgam-Amarnath cave route either”

Hurriyat (G) sets up panel for consultations, consensus

Srinagar, Oct 31 (VOS):  In an apparent bid to counter the claims of Hurriyat Conference (G), Chairman Syed Ali Geelani that construction material was being dumped for construction of road and setting up permanent structures enroute the holy Amarnath Cave, the Jammu and Kashmir Government today facilitated an aerial survey of the Baltal route by a group of media persons.

The group of journalists was flown in a helicopter on the Balatal-Sangam route for a first hand account of the track leading to the Amarnath cave on Wednesday morning.

According to VOS correspondent, who was part of the media group on visit to the area, there were no visible signs of construction activity or widening / mecademization of the route. There were no signs of dumping of construction material either.

Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police, SM Sahai said the step was taken to clear the misconception being created around the activities on the Amarnath Yatra track.

“There is no activity going on there. The whole misconception that is being created around the activities on the track needed to be cleared. There is no concept of a road, no concept of mecademization or construction of any sort of permanent structures of the route”, Sahai said while talking to the reporters who had gone on the aerial survey of the Baltal route.

Dispelling the notion that a concrete road was being constructed to the holy cave from either side, he said the Supreme Court or the Special High Power Committee have not issued orders or made recommendations for construction of a mecademized road or construction of permanent structures in the area. However, he said clearing of the route and making it worthy for the yatris to travel is an annual process, which should not be misconstrued as road widening.

In response to a specific query regarding the photographs shown by Hurriyat (G) Chairman Syed Ali Geelani earlier during a press conference, the IGP said that those photographs were of prefabricated structures which were sent there as there had been damage to the prefab structures in Sheshnag area.

“In keeping with SC guidelines and environmental concerns, there is requirement for sanitation there and for that purpose we needed to create some facilities so that the lack of sanitation does not impact environment. There are no permanent structures of any kind there”, he said.

When asked by the journalists regarding the Pahalgam track which they had not surveyed, the IGP said that no activity was going on, on that side either. “You can go to that side. There is no activity there. “Because of shortage of time the Baltal route has become more important for the yatris, that is why it was chosen for survey for you to have a first hand view”.

Meanwhile, the Hurriyat Conference (G) has set up a five member committee to hold deliberations and wider consultations on the future course of action on the Amarnath issue.

“A committee of five members was constituted headed by Gh Nabil Sumji, Gen Secretary APHC to look into the matter and after deliberation and consultations with different Quarters viz trade unions, & concerned quarters, a report is expected after their comprehensive study and consultations.”, said Hurriyat (G) spokesperson Ayaz Akbar.

“This will be subjected to study and a seminar is scheduled to be organized on 10th of November. Intellectuals, lawyers, traders, journalists, transporters, will   extend their view point and a unanimous decision with regard to Amar Nath issue will be accorded”, he added.

However, sources told VOS, that the committee apart from different civil society groups will also consult various other Separatist leaders for reaching a common consensus on the issue. “The committee will also meet Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Mohammad Yasin Malik, Shabir Ahmad Shah and other senior resistance leaders to come up with a consensus on the issue”, the sources added.

Geelani had threatened to launch an agitation after Eid ul Azha. if the state government did not shelve its alleged plans, to construct the road.
He has also claimed that he had photographic evidence about construction material which had been dumped along the routes following a direction of the Supreme Court. 

The Court had earlier this year taken suo motu cognizance of high number of deaths of Amaranth pilgrims and directed the state government to improve the condition of the tracks and provide necessary healthcare and other facilities to pilgrims for bringing down casualties.
Geelani has also called for disbanding of the Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) and handing over the management of the Yatra to Kashmiri Pandits besides limiting the number of pilgrims. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had offered a helicopter to the separatist leader for getting a first-hand view of the condition of the tracks.
Omar has also ruled out construction of any road to the Holy Cave or permanent facilities. He, however, said a sewerage treatment plant was needed to ensure that the pollution caused by the human movement during the yatra period is dealt with scientifically for protecting the environment. (VOS)

CAPD hospitality overshadows FCI team’s ‘Mission Kashmir’

Two days on, team unable to get feed back from rural areas

Srinagar, Oct. 31 (VOS): Despite CAPD Minster raising a strong voice for increasing the ration quota in favour of the state, in New Delhi on Tuesday, centre seems unmoved and is unlikely to lend an ear to the state government over the issue.

Sources in the government revealed to VOS that on the Supreme Court directions a high level team from Food Corporation Of India (FCI) currently on the state visit, seems interested in sight seeing rather than accessing the situation with regard to ration scarcity in the state especially in the valley.

“ Two member team has arrived in Srinagar on Tuesday and was supposed to travel to  Srinagar, Anantang and Pulwama on November  2, 3 and 4 respectively, where they were scheduled to interact with the consumers in order to get a first hand feed back about the distribution of the ration and Kerosene.” Sources told VOS. However they added that after arriving in Srinagar, the team had probably some other plans in mind. “They hurriedly called a meeting in a government office with the people who though know each and everything but do not have any mandate to discuss the policy matters,” a source in the CAPD department told VOS wishing not to be named.

He added that it appears that the team wasn’t concerned with the assignment they have come here for, instead are pleased to enjoy the hospitality of the CAPD, department. Some officers in the department expressed their apprehension that few blew eyed insiders in the department are glued to the team  in order to please them which would eventually give an impression that ‘all is well’ in the department.

Pertinently the arrival of the team is the part of the Supreme Court ruling in which the union govt. has been directed to depute teams to 28 states in order to access the distributions of the ration, and highlight the loopholes in the process. However sources maintained that it is unlikely that the visiting team would actually point point out any loophole in the system, though it is an open secret that the JK consumers still get ration on the basis of 2001 census.  (VOS) 

Ruling parties to blame for Zanskar trouble: Mehbooba

“Govt, responsible if people’s urge for peace is not responded”

Srinagar, Oct 31:  Expressing relief at the strong desire of the Muslim and the Budhist community of Zanaskar  to restore their traditional bonds of amity and brotherhood the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president Mehbooba Mufti has said the onus  on maintenance of law and order and providing protection to the citizens rests with the government.

In a statement issued at the end of her visit to the troubled Zanaskar sub division she said it seems the coalition partners NC and Congress are stoking the fires of communalism in the region to promote their partisan interests which unfortunately are linked to their persuit of narrow and unprincipled politics.

Mehbooba reached Kargil today after her over night stay at Padum, the headquarters of Zanaskar sub division. She was accompanied by a team comprising senior leaders Qazi Mohammed Afzal, Nizamuddin Bhat MLA,  Adv Gh Murtaza and Tashi Gyalson. The team held many rounds of discussions with the representatives of  both communities. They also visited the victims of rioting and inspected the houses damaged as a result of violence.

Mehbooba Mufti discussed with the representatives of the local civil society the humanitarian crisis that has been caused due to sheer negligence and instances of biased conduct by the administration. The team felt that the government had almost withdrawn from the area and had left the people to their own fate. They were told that the official delegation which landed there nearly one month after the initial trouble spent less than an hour at padum and did not even visit the victims of violence. They did not inspect the houses that have been damaged in the unfortunate incidents.

The team was informed that the government had announced a paltry Rupees three lacs     ( Rs- 3 lac) as relief to more than two dozen families who have suffered extensive damage to their homes and property. The houses  had been ransacked in which the victims suffered loss of the household goods as well.

Mehbooba demanded adequate compensation to the victims and their complete rehabilitation by the government. She said some of the victims lived in extremely bad conditions and in absence of any help from the government it seemed they were being further victimized. She said a few families had been disinherited of their ancestral property and the matter had been taken to civil court in far off Kargil. It was a fit case for the government to provide them free legal assistance and even to intervene through community efforts to sort out the matter amicably out of court.

During its interaction with various groups the team got an impression that the people of the area feared interference by vested interests from out side Zanaskar. They felt that the ruling NC and congress are trying to sharpen the communal polarization in pursuit of their political ends. The NC it may be recalled had originally contributed to communalization of politics in the region about a quarter century back and has been reaping its dividends ever since even though it has caused immense problems to different sections of society there.

Mehbooba said given the strong desire of the people of both communities in Zanskar to restore peace and live amicably it was for the government to ensure that no outside elements were able to stoke fire of discord any more. She said the administration in the area has to be toned up and the officials made aware of their responsibilities in ensuring the safety of life and property of people there. But, she said this can be achieved only if the ruling politicians rise above their political interests and help the people to rediscover peace and amity.

Acts of blasphemy intolerable

JKLF delegation to leave for Kishtwar, Doda tomorrow: Yasin Malik

Srinagar, Oct 31:  Chairman JKLF Mohammad Yasin Malik has strongly condemned the act of uploading anti Muslim photographs on social network and termed this blasphemy as an act of propagating hatred and Mischief. In a press statement issued today Yasin Malik said that this Abominable act committed in Kishtwar Doda has been committed when the flames of hatred are still high in Zanaskar Kargil. announcing that a high level delegation of JKLF headed by advocate Bashir Ahmad Butt will leave for Kishtwar Doad tomorrow on 1st November 2012 and will try to safeguard the religious harmony and brotherhood among the people, Yasin said that the sequence of these provocative acts is indicative of the fact that some agencies who want to  distract the focus of people from resistance movement to other side are bent upon propagating and Agitating  religious hatred among the people of Jammu Kashmir. Yasin Malik said that after the failure in dividing people in the name of MASLAK these enemies of Kashmir now want to derail our Centuries-old religious tolerance and Harmony. Yasin Malik said that at this crucial time people of Jammu Kashmir have to come together and defeat the Abominable ambitions of enemies. Yasin Malik while Praising the Muslims of Doda and Kishtwar for their Commendable protest against this blasphemy said that while protesting against the elements who try to harm our harmony and brotherhood we will have to ensure that we follow our religion and sayings of our beloved prophet SAW. Yasin Malik said that our religion and Prophet SAW has in unambiguous words instructed us to be tolerant and never use abusive language against any religion or the heads of those religions. It is our duty and right to protest strongly against these acts of blasphemy against our beloved religion Islam and communicate to the whole world that a Muslim cannot tolerate anything against his religion, but at the same time we will have to ensure the safety of non Muslims Living with us. Meanwhile Yasin Malik has expressed his heartfelt condolences over the sad demise of Sardar Usman of Azad Kashmir .The deceased, a young man of 22 was the brother of JKLF leader in UAE Sardar Anwar. Yasin Malik while paying rich tributes to the deceased and his family said that this family has been all along struggling for the cause of kashmiri's and today at this hour of deep sorrow and Grief we the leadership and members of JKLF express our condolences with Sardar Anwar and family. JKLF also expresses condolences to Jenab Ayaz Sahib of Rainawari whose mother passed away on 29th of Oct. Yasin sahib and other JKLF leaders visited the residence of Jenab Ayaz Sahib and expressed their condolences.

CPA delegation calls on Mirwaiz

Srinagar Oct 31: An 11-member civil society delegation led by prominent Journalist Seema Mustafa today met the APHC Chairman,Mirwaiz Umar Farooq at the hurriyat headquarters here.

The important civil society group of Centre for Policy Analysis (CPA) included noted social and women activists, politicians, analysts and educational experts. Laila Pasha, Doctor jotyshina chattergee, TK Raja lakshmi, Ms chenoy, Zakiya, Sahiba Farooqui, promila lamba were part of the delegation including many other.

The delegetaion was received by both the genereal and executive council members of the Hurriyat including Mukhtar Ahmad waza, Musadiq Adil, Abdul Rashid untoo, Nayeem Ahmad Khan, Zaffar Akbar Bhat, Advocate Shahid-ul-Islam, GM Nagoo, Yasmeen Raja, Hakeem Abdul Rashid, Abdul Manan Bukhari.

During the meeting, the Hurriyat chairman,  made it clear to the delegation that it was due to the pending resolution of  Kashmir issue which has actually led to killings, blood-letting, suppression, torture and worst

atrocities against women and human rights violations in the state. Due to this, Mirwaiz informed the delegation that an army of orphans widows and disabled people has been created in the disputed territory.

He said it was also due to this fact that custodial killings, enforced disappearances, and issue of mass graves have cropped in jammu and Kashmir.

Mirwaiz said that the unbridled powers vested with the troops due to AFSPA, PSA, and disturbed area legislation's give them impunity to action their desired will. He said as a result they can’t be held accountable. He further apprised the delegation that the APHC has given certain recommendations to the Government of India to make a conducive atmosphere on the ground prior to the resolution. He said the recommendations included

revocation of all the black laws, demilitarization, release of all the political prisoners languishing in jails, end of human rights violation and to allow the pro-freedom camp to start their political activities.

Mirwaiz, however, said that it was highly unfortunate that the GOI did not shun its traditional policy of rigidity and continued with its narrow minded policies despite the international pressures. He said this policy of inflexblity was of high concern and dangerous for the security, peace and progress of south Asia.

The civil society delegation agreed with the observations of Mirwaiz and demanded that the process of demilitarization and revoking of black laws should be done immediately to provide security and relief to the common man. They further informed that the delegation would  inform the civil society in India about the problems faced by the Kashmiris and would try to pressurize the GOI to stop the rights violations in Kashmir.

Later the CPA invited Mirwaiz to attend a protest which is going to take place  at Jantar Mantar New Delhi  on  10th December Human Rights which he readily accepted.

H1 net profit up 35%

J&K Bank earns Rs. 516 Cr in 6 months

Bank will continue to focus on mainstay of state’s economy- Mushtaq Ahmad

Srinagar, Oct 31: J&K Bank is all set to achieve a net profit target of Rs.1000 crore and business target of Rs.100000 crore (Rs. One lac crore) by March 2013. The Bank registered a net profit of Rs 515.62 in the first six months ended September 2012. The increase in the net profit is 35% when compared with Rs 381.94 crore of the corresponding period of the last financial year (2011-2012).

For the second quarter (Q2), the bank registered a net profit of Rs 269.53 Cr as against Rs 199.65 Cr recorded for the corresponding quarter of last financial year. Thus, registering an increase of 35 % during the period.

Following the approval of its Board of Directors in a meeting held here, the Bank announced these reviewed quarterly/half yearly financial results for the period ended September 30, 2012.

The business of the Bank reached Rs 89,198 Cr witnessing an increase of 17.89% from Rs 75,660 Cr recorded during the corresponding period last FY.

The interest income has grown by 34.60 % to Rs 2976.75 Cr.

The operating profit has gone up by 33.17% from Rs 629.15 Cr to Rs 837.85 Cr. The NPA Coverage Ratio increased to 93.30% from 92% recorded during the corresponding period last FY.

The Bank’s Earnings per Share have considerably increased by 35% reaching 212.72 from 157.57.

Commenting on the results, Chairman and CEO Mr. Mushtaq Ahmad said, “The results are encouraging and we hope to achieve our target figures for the FY 2012-13 well in time. Our key ratios have improved further.”

However, in the coming quarters we will speed up the consolidation of expanding structural and systematic frameworks.”

With Bank’s massive out-reach campaign unfolding across production belts of the state, he said, “Agriculture have received special focus in our lending policy during the current financial year.”

Dwelling briefly upon this, Chairman said, “Under the Apple Project in two districts of Baramulla and Shopian, the Bank has already financed 16300 growers to the tune of Rs 343 Cr. Besides, 1.38 lacs Kissan Credit Cards (KCC) have been issued to farmers across the state till date amounting to Rs 471 Cr.”

The Bank plans to extend the Apple Project to all districts of J&K soon. This is in addition to the finances pumped by the Bank in the agricultural sector, which is more than Rs 1200 Cr, he added.

J&K Bank share surges

Srinagar, Oct 31: With an appreciation of 9.4% in its share price, J&K Bank today topped gainers list as its stock hit an all time high of Rs 1225 and Rs 1224.55 at Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and National Stock Exchange (NSE) respectively.

The surge in the stock price came shortly after the Bank posted 35% increase in its Q2 results.

The share price witnessed a sharp increase of Rs 105 at both the stock exchanges.

Commenting on the unprecedented surge in the Bank’s share price, Chairman and CEO said, “We value the trust of our investors as one of the key factors responsible for our uninterrupted growth story. This is the shareholders confidence in the bank.”

Notably, more than 7.4 lac shares were traded during the day at both the bourses.

PDP concerned for continuous loot of forests in Doodganga range

Srinagar, Oct, 31: Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned the continuing loot of forests and timber smuggling in various parts of the state especially in Pir Panjal forest division (Dood ganga range).

In a statement issued here today a spokesman of the party said that timber smuggling is continuously going on in Pirpanjal forest division and in particular in Doodganga forest range in Chadoora Branwar.

On the intervening night of 29th and 30th a truck bearing no: JK01A-0451 loaded with illegal timber was being unloaded at the residence of a noted political workers of NV (Choudhry Gh Mohd Jehra) in Branwar village of Chadoora.

Some of locals informed the concerned forest officials butr unfortunately no action was taken against the culprit who has been continuesly involved in this illegal trade since last many years. The forest officials instead of taking any legal action against the culprit are  in hand in glow with him and till date no FIR has been filed in this regard. He said that it bis not only in doodganga range of Pir Panjal division along with doodpathri area the timber smuggling is going on continuously which has led to environmental degradation in the PirPanjal forest division.

The spokesman further added that immediate legal action should be taken against the culprits involved in illegal timber trade especially against Choudhry Gh Mohd Jehra of Branwar who has unleashed reign of terror in the whole area. It is pertinent to mention here that Gh Mohd Jehra is a sarpanch and a member of Gujjar Bakerwal advisory board also.

Srinagar:31 oct/ Democratic freedom Party chairman Shabir Ahmad Shah has expressed his deep anguish and concern over the violence against minority Muslim community in Zanaskar and the desecration of the Holy Quran by some miscreants.

“It is very unfortunate that the minority community is being harassed and intimidated and the authorities have adopted a deep and criminal silence,” Shah said.

It is the responsibility of the government to protect the minority community from any difficulty. The communal forces who are trying to create tension and confusion among the people should be dealt with and it is the responsibility of the authorities, he said.

It is very unfortunate that the communal forces are hell bent upon breaking the brotherhood of the communities that have withstood the testing of times. The Muslims and other communities should not fell prey to the communal force who are desperate to create a sectarian conflict in the valley. I appeal to the Muslims and the Buddhists that they should ensure the protection of the minority community in zanakar, Shah said.

He further said that the protest of the people of the Chenab valley is highly commendable who come out in protest against the desecration of the holy Quran. “Any conscious Muslim will not tolerate the desecration of the Holy Quran. The state authorities have given a free hand to the communal forces and they are hell bent upon the desecration of the Muslims and their faith,’ he said.

Shah also criticized the slapping of another PSA on Masrat Alam Bhat, and said that the authorities are arresting the separatist groups without any reason. “But the authorities should bear in mind that by these arrests and intimidation the freedom struggle will not be suppressed, he added.

India’s Kashmir policy based on arrogance, imperialism: Inqilabi

Srinagar, Oct 31:  Chief Patron Jammu Kashmir Mahaz-e-Azadi (MeA) Muhammad Azam Inqilabi Wednesday castigated India’s Kashmir policy and termed it based on “arrogance and imperialism.”

In a statement issued here, Inqilabi said instead of allowing resistance leadership to play its role in Kashmir solution “Indian government believes in muzzling voice and curbing dissent here.”

MeA patron held Pakistan “apologetic K-policy” responsible for India’s stubbornness.

“It is the result of neutralizing Azad Kashmir’s revolutionary role in Kashmir freedom struggle that now some Indian leaders are demanding military offensive against liberated areas,” he said.

Inqilabi said till “Azad Kashmir’s role as base camp of the freedom struggle isn’t restored India will continue to harbour intransigence in its K-policy.”

“Indian establishment and its puppets here will continue to create obstacles for resistance leadership till Pakistan rethinks on its water and barter K-policy,” he added.

However, he said, “Indian obduracy has helped Kashmir youth to prepare for sustained struggle for freedom.”

MeA patron said lingering Kashmir dispute will continue to further uncertainty and can prove catastrophic for the region.

“It would be better for India to initiate steps for tripartite talks for the resolution of Kashmir dispute,” he added.

Sehra Sehra’ of nonagenarian Saifi Sopori released at KU

Srinagar, Oct 31:  A panel discourse “meet the eminent” with valley`s nonagenarian mystic poet Saifi Sopori was organized by Allama Iqbal Library University of Kashmir during which his poetic collection “Sehra Sehra” was released.

During the discourse eminent scholars, writers and columnists presented their reviews on the book and shed light on the poetic philosophy of Saifi Sopori whose first Urdu poem was published in Daily “Khidmat” way back in 1942.

 The panel discourse was chaired by Vice Chancellor Central University of Kashmir Prof Abdul Wahid Qureshi which was participated by Professor Bashir Ahmed Nehvi , Professor Mohammad Aslam, Zareef Ahmad Zareef, Assistant Dean DSW KU Showkat  Shafi and Saifi Sopori-the author of the book.

In his address Vice Chancellor Central University of Kashmir Prof Abdul Wahid Qureishi while making his remarks about the book said Saifi Sopori`s Sehra Sehra manifests the poet`s struggle for finding an oasis in the wilderness of life.

Prof Qureishi said that the collection bears testimony to the fact that the poet has burnt midnight oil to compose notes that have directly come from his heart.

Prof Qureishi congratulated the Allama Iqbal Library for its initiative “meet the eminent” which was launched six years back and said that it will help in preserving the visual and audio deliberations and words of wisdom of veterans of the valley and their works for posterity.

While presenting his review of the book former Director Iqbal Institute of Culture and Philosophy Prof Basher Nehvi said that Saifi Sopori represents the last legacy of great Urdu writers and his poetic collection bears the imprints of the rich cultural heritage of our valley.

He said that this is the first collection of poems that Saifi Sopuri has published though he has been writing for ages.

“His command over Urdu and the essential elements in the poetic forms seem unparalleled and unmatched. His poems and ghazals remind me of Ahmad Faraz and Mir Ghulam Rasool Nazki,” said Prof Nehvi.

While coordinating the panel discussion Prof Aslam said that the author has demonstrated that while choosing a genre like ghazal, he doesn’t seem repetitious of, say Ghalib or Iqbal, though he seems to have benefited from both.

Renowned satirist and Kashmiri writer Zareef Ahmad Zareef also presented his views on the occasion.

On the occasion Prof Abdul Wahid Qureishi released the book during which Registrar University of Kashmir Prof Zaffar Ahmed Reshi was also present, who congratulated the author for poetic works.

Sehra Sehra is a self-published poetic collection of 183 poems (hymns, encomiums, ghazals and poems) by Saifi Sopuri (original name: Saifuddin Masoodi).

Earlier Librarian Alama Iqbal Librarty KU Riyaz Rufai, presented the welcome address  and talked about the importance of such events for the society as a whole.

While interacting with the audience and responding to their queries Saifi Sopori- the author of the book said that the reason for choosing ‘Sehra Sehra’ which means ‘desert’ as title of the book was to depict the life of a human being which is full of difficulties and challenges and the pain and misery he suffers from while overcoming these challenges and impediments.

Saifi Sopori who has been a renowned educationist of his times is an image-maker and lover of nature. He has drawn images of Kashmir in her various moods. The Dal Lake and Moonlit Night is an excellent description of the beauty that the Dal presents. He uses metaphor after metaphor to draw a vivid picture.

In his ghazals and poems, one finds a mention of flowers, mountains, storms, deserts, snakes either as descriptive terms for natural beauty or as symbols for what Saifi finds around him and/or longs for.

According to the critiques Sehra Sehra is a beautiful compilation from an Urdu creative writer who has so far lived in seclusion.

 Dean Students Welfare Prof  Neelofar Khan , Dean Education Prof Nighat Basu , Director EMMRC  Dr Shahid Rasool , noted political analyst  Dr Noor Mohammad  Baba, renowned neurologist Dr Muzaffar Masoodi, Gastroenterologist Dr Ibrahim Masoodi, Physician specialist Dr Azhar Masoodi who is also son of the nonagenarian author, noted educationist Ghulam Nabi Masoodi , and several academicians of the University, poets and writers were also present during the book release ceremony.

2014 will be the expiry date of PDP- NC Spokesman

“Mufti, Mehbooba have a communal mindset, dividing people of the state on region and religion basis”

“Intra party contradictions, ideological dilemma and lack of leadership weighing heavily on the minds of PDP leadership”

Srinagar, Oct 31:  The National Conference today said that the PDP is teetering on the verge of a split and before the parliamentary election are held many of their leaders will desert them.

“PDP will disintegrate before the parliamentary elections and one can easily figure out their desperation to woo their disgruntled members and leaders back by selling false dreams, adding, the damage has already been done and such a development is in offing” National Conference spokesman Tanvir Sadiq said while interacting with various youth delegation from south Kashmir at the party headquarters today adding “We neither want them nor are they joining us” he added

“This will happen before 2014 elections because of the huge leadership crisis arising inside the party and the failure of their president to put their flock together” said Tanvir adding “Even in the assembly it was evident that Muzaffar Beigh was overshadowing Mehbooba” adding “Intra party contradictions, ideological dilemma and lack of leadership are also weighing heavily on their minds”.

Pooh-Poohing PDP’s failed attempt to hoodwink the people by their tall claims of forming the next government in the state the NC Spokesman said that this is in fact an indication of their frustration and a desperate attempt to sell false dreams to their party men in a bid woo their members back. “Their members are just waiting for the right opportunity to desert the party” said Sadiq

Hitting back at Mehbooba for her comments on the Chief Minister Omar Abdullah the party Spokesman said “It is Shameful on her part because she always tries to ignite the sentiments of the people on one pretext or the other,” Tanvir added “She has a communal mindset, If she knew so much about the situation and that she claims it was simmering why didn’t she visit the area earlier,” asked Sadiq “Now that she had gone for a leisure trip to that region she suddenly woke up to a situation in Zanskar which the Omar Abdullah led government has already taken care of” adding “They are sick minded fascist who have ruined and ravaged the state by their petty politics and anti people stand” said Sadiq.

Blaming them for the 2010 and Amarnath land row Tanvir told the gathering that it is their trait to divide people on region and religion basis.

It is not only shameful but also preposterous on the part of some parties to blame NC whose leadership has always upheld the sanctity of the Kashmiriyat which enunciates the beauty of communal harmony and brotherhood” Tanvir said  “Our leaders have sacrificed everything to keep Kashmir together and we will always strive to do so” He added

Waza condemns desecration of Quran in Chenab valley

Srinagar, Oct 31: Jammu and Kashmir Peoples League today strongly condemned the desecration of the Holy Quran in Chenab valley by some miscreants and cautioned people to remain vigilant against communal violence.

In a statement issued, Party Chairman, Mukhtar Ahmad Waza today while expressing deep anguish and concern over the violence against minority Muslim community in Zanaskar and the desecration of the Holy Quran by some miscreants in Chenab Valley said that the some elements are trying to create communal tension in the valley that can’t be tolerated at all.

He said that local administration should effectively act in this regard and tension creators should be dealt accordingly in the both regions of the Jammu and Kashmir because in both areas Muslims are in minority and to protect them should be administration’s first priority.

He said that policies against Islam are being hatched continuously on international, national and now in our own state with an aim to provocate Muslim Ummah, but these forces had utterly failed to promote apostasy on mass-level in the Muslim Community.

Waza appealed general public of Zanskar and Chenab valley to ensure and maintain peace and communal harmony in both areas and also appealed Buddhists and Hinduism followers to ensure the safety of minority on humanitarian grounds   

 For Advertisement:- editorvoiceofsrinagar@gmail.com

Advertisement Manager:-Ishfaq Dar(9797761777)