SRINAGAR, SATURDAY, 16  MUHARRAM 1434 AH ; 30 NOVEMBER  2012

Email:-editorvosgr@gmail.com

60 percent hotels vacated by Security Forces: Director Toursim

‘14 lakh tourists visited valley’

Rs 4 crore recovered as fine for cheating with tourists, 21 lakh reimbursed to tourists

Srinagar, Nov 30 (VOS): While claiming that the state government was serious towards getting various hotels in valley vacated by the security forces, Director Tourism Kashmir, Talat Parvez today said the government has so far been successful in vacating about 60 percent hotels from their occupation.

He said despite lack of sufficient infrastructure for tourism in the valley, the department of tourism has been able to ensure a successful year for tourism in the valley.

The Director expressed optimism regarding inflow of tourists during winter and said many winter sports events are in offing for attracting more tourists.

While talking to VOS, Parvez said the state government is very serious about vacating hotels and guest houses occupied by security forces to boost tourism industry in the State.

 “Guest houses and hotels which were occupied by the security forces have already been vacated to a large extent and now further steps are being taken in this process ”, said Parveez.

Speaking about tourist flow this year, the Director informed that 14 lakh tourists visited Kashmir valley this year and this number is expected to increase in coming months for which tourism department is fully prepared.

Regarding the policy for enhancing tourism infrastructure in the valley, Talat said that a master plan has been prepared which will be implemented very soon.

He admitted due to the last two decades of violence, the department was unable to take appropriate steps for development of tourism infrastructure ‘but now when the peace has returned all the possible measures will be taken towards its betterment’. He further said that many hoteliers at Pahalgam and Gulmarg have been permitted to construct and improve upon their hotels. “Many famous hotel owners have already started building their branches at various places”, said the Director.

He appealed unemployed youth to come forward and earn from their talent for which tourism department will provide full cooperation. “Apne Hunar Se Kamaov (Earn From Your Own Skill) is a scheme under which youth can approach tourism dpartment to get employment and earn their livelihood. I appeal all youth to come and join us for their own benefits”, said Parveez.

When asked about promotion of eco-tourism director said a joint committee has already been constituted which is surveying all the pros and cons.

Admitting that the tourists were being cheated by some vested interests, Parvez informed that last year 21 lakh rupees were reimbursed to the tourists and a fine of 4 crore rupees was also collected from various vendors in the valley found involved in cheating and malpractice. “Strict action will be taken if anybody is be found guilty. Department is going to organize an awareness program to prevent such incidents with the help of common people”, said Parveez.

Speaking about the winter tourism and sports, he said that all arrangements have been put in place to make winter sports mega event. “Ice skating will begin in the last week of December in which large number of people including the outsiders are going to participate. In the first week of February Kashmir cup will be organized in which some European Ambassadors are expected to participate”,informed Parveez. (VOS)

Omar’s ‘make-up-kit’ remark aimed at making female voters vulnerable ahead of LC polls: PDP  

Srinagar Nov 30: Describing the make-up-kit remark of the chief minister Omar Abdullah as an insult to the people of the state, the Peoples Democratic Party today said it was particularly denigrating to the womenfolk.

In a statement the party chief spokesman Naeem Akhtar said it was unfortunate that the head of the state government had lost his sense of propriety as a result of the panic that has struck him in his pursuit to win a few council seats for the ruling coalition.

"Cursing the opposition for all his failures was now a stock response of the chief minister but making such demeaning remarks against the mothers and sisters was completely unacceptable" Naeem Akhtar said.

The PDP spokesman said women had defied considerable social barriers in taking a plunge into electoral process and are occupying a seriously contested democratic space. The chief minister through his insensitive remarks has however created a hugely negative impression about them, he said.

“Omar Abdullah’s reference to woman being bribed with make up kits and his attempt to cast aspersion on our sisters and mothers' integrity has a method to it. It seems the National Conference through such statements intends to discourage women of the state from being empowered and assigned the much deserved political space,” said Naeem Akhtar.

He said Omar’s statement does not go well with his claim to have a degree from abroad or having any modern day schooling. “No Western or Islamic education teaches such narrow mindedness towards women. The chief minister needs to have a lesson or two on the place the woman occupy in Kashmiri society and the value and faith attached to mothers and sisters,” said the chief spokesman.

The chief minister’s remark at its meanest level is not only sexist but also gravely anti-woman.

“The reason of the state being in the throes of dark era is because of feudal forces which relegated the woman’s role to space around hearth,” said Akhtar. 

“Omar’s remark if scrutinised through the historic prism points out the feudal mindset of the 18th century. We fear such a statement where Omar expressed doubt publicly on the integrity of our women folk will box them again into oblivion, much to the liking of the ruling party,” he said.

The PDP chief spokesman said Omar’s ‘make-up kit’ remark will make woman vulnerable at their homes, where they will have to face questions and jibes after the chief minister’s irresponsible statement in a constituency which the Abdullah clan ruled for centuries. “This shows how this family pays to those who voted them in the past to power,” said Akhtar.

He said in fact the state government has siphoned off crores of rupees it received as contingency grants under the MNREGA that could have been paid as remuneration.

Akhtar said Omar Abdullah by talking of make up kits and lipstick is displaying an eighteenth century feudal mindset in which the rulers would advise people to eat cakes during famine. "It is absurd to talk of cosmetics in our rural settings where the inefficiency and corruption by Omar government has thrown womenfolk back into Middle Ages,” he said.

The PDP spokesman said people need to draw a parallel between the yesterday’s statement and this government’s design to push our mothers and sisters to the wall and ensure their participation in political space is truncated as much as possible.

“The recent measures by the ruling party have already put our sisters through a series of hardships. Cooking gas is a dream now and water remains a hard task of the day for the woman in rural and many areas of the city. The non-availability of cooking gas and cumbersome procedures has already women back to forests collecting food to keep their hearth burning. Everyday woman walks miles to fetch water in rural areas to feed their kids,” said Naeem Akhtar.

 “How this government sees women was stark when the chief minister concluded the case even when inquiry was started in the Shopian double murder case of our sisters in 2009. Omar proposed drowning theory without considering the pleas made by the family. Similarly, women were targeted in 2010. The culprits behind the killing of a woman in Batamaloo continue to be at large. This government took no action against the people behind the killing of the innocent woman at Batamaloo. This shows seriousness of this government in cases where women were victims,” said Naeem Akhar.

He said this dispensation has a history of beating women when ever they took to the street for basic issues like sadak, bijli pani. “Whether it is old city or Ganderbal, women always have been facing stick for demanding their rights. The sit-ins for just demands organised by the women always saw brute force silencing these sensible voices. But these women will give befitting reply to this dispensation in the coming polls,” said Akhtar.

Akhtar said the women panches were looking forward to the remuneration that the Panchayat Act provides them with but the Omar Abdullah government after having denied it to them for two years is now misleading everybody that it had taken up the matter with the centre.

The spokesman said the chief minister’s threat to resign in case the charges of corruption against him were proven smacks of old trick he resorts to whenever cornered. “We want to remind him that all institutions of probity in the state like State Accountability Commission and RTI Act have been defanged by the present dispensation. The resignation threat sounds like a joke because the chief minister failed to do so when Haji Yousuf episode took place or in the wake of more than 100 killings of the youth in 2010,” he said.  

PDP always acted as an off shoot of communal forces – NC

 “Muftis symbolize the height of opportunism”

 “PDP a bunch of corrupt former bureaucrats”

 November 30: The National Conference spokesman today called Peeoples Democratic Party (PDP)  a Bharati Janta Party's (BJP)’s big plan, while ridiculing their statement reminded them how their party president showered praises in favour of communal leaders of India for some monetary benefits.

“It’s amusing to see a malicious statement from opposition while as they seem to have forgotten, how their leader showered praises in favour of Modi, partnered with Jagmohan to kill innocent people at Gawkadal, Handwara, Hawal and the latest by putting Jethmalani to break a deal for them to grab power” National Conference Spokesman Tanvir Sadiq said today adding “It is a very well known fact that PDP and their leaders are famous for their intrigue, dirty machinations”

Asking this party to look at the trajectory of their founder before issuing bizarre statements, the NC spokesman said “from Congress, Janta Dal, Janta Party, MUF, to forming PDP an off shoot of communal forces, Muftis symbolize the height of opportunism”

“The PDP is neither a political force to reckon with nor does it have organic connections with the people of the state. It is a creation and its trajectory mirrors the career of their patron propped and projected entity aimed to dilute not only the special status of the state but also to create divisions among the people on region and religion basis” said Sadiq

Calling PDP a bunch of turn coats and corrupt bureaucrats the NC Spokesman  said “It’s quite evident that the opposition is gathering all the former corrupt bureaucrats including their ex-Deputy Chief Minister to spend their ill gotten money to grab power” adding “the new entrants along with their old bosses will miserably fail”.

Ridiculing PDP Tanvir said “Since they failed in doing anything politically, this party has come to such a low level that now an ex-bureaucrat is out to save the sinking ship of PDP by using cheap theatrics to hoodwink people of Doda” said Sadiq adding “this party has become a safe heaven for all these corrupt people who looted the state with both hands", "they have ganged up together including their Kishtawar MLC”

“The opposition’s patron apparently is fond of former bureaucrats who are neck deep in corruption and now this proves how this party is run and funded” said Tanvir

Hitting at their former deputy Chief Minister the Tanvir said “We are not afraid of the propagandist approach and unfounded allegations. We have with stood such attacks in the past and have come clean of all allegations leveled against us” said Tanvir  “Beigh Sahib has reached a level where he can be termed as untouchable in politics, and his statements increasingly “Absurd”” rebuked  Tanvir  adding “People will judge Omar Abdullah’s government on the work rather than sloganeering.” said Tanvir 

Electioneering to end on Saturday

Div Com calls meeting to review arrangements

Srinagar, Nov 30 (VOS): With the electioneering process set to close on Saturday, campaigning for the upcoming Legislative Council polls is on its peak with various parties and candidates trying to garner maximum number of votes to ensure victory.

Amid accusations and counteraccusations between the two main contesting sides, politicians, ministers and panchayat bodies are reported to be trying to reach out to maximum panchs and sarpanchs to make a last minute bid for earning their support.

Sunday will be an off day for campaigning as the polls are set to be held on Monday, Dec 3, across various block headquarters in both Kashmri and Jammu divisions.

Meanwhile, according to official sources, the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir, who is also the returning officer for the LC elections has called meeting of officials on Friday evening for finalizing arrangements for the polls.

The meeting is also set to review the position of polling material and its supply to various polling booths in time. Apart from the polling material and staff issues, the security situation is also expected to be discussed in the meeting, which according to sources, will also be attended by top police officials.

“Certain super sensitive areas with regard to security have been identified and a final review will be conducted to ensure free, fair and secure polls”, the sources said.

Pertinently, the elections in valley for 2 LC seats scheduled for Monday are to be contested mainly between the NC-congress coalition candidates and the candidates of opposition PDP.

The coalition has fielded Ghulam Nabi Monga of Congress and Ali Muhammad Dar of the NC whileas the PDP had fielded Yasir Reshi and Peer Muhammad Hussain, with the contest expected to be a nail biter.

About 35000 panchs and sarpanchs, elected for various halqas in the state form the electorate for the polls, which are being held on December 3 with each member eligible for casting two votes. (VOS)

Mirwaiz calls meeting of Shia-Sunni coordination committee

“To formulate strategy for tacking situation in future”

Castigates Govt for restrictions, calls them interference in religious matters

Srinagar, Nov 30 (VOS): Valley’s head priest and Ameer of Muthaida Majlis-e-Ulema, Moulvi Mohammad Umar Farooq has invited various religious leaders for a meeting of Sunni-Shia coordination committee to be held on Sunday.

“The meeting would take place in the house of senior Hurriyat leader, Agha Syed Hassan Al Moosvi located in Badgam”, read a statement issued by Mirwaiz here. He said the the meeting would discuss the incident and would formulate an effective strategy to tackle it in the future.    

While speaking to VOS, Mirwaiz said that he had sent letters for inviting various leaders including Hurriyat (G) Chairman Syed Ali Geelani to discuss the issues and exchange ideas regarding tackling the situation in the city.

Others who have been invited for the meeting include JKLF Chairman Yasin Malik,  Shia leaders Iftikhar Hussain Ansari, Moulana Abbas Ansari and Agha Syed Hassan apart from Jamaat-e-Islami Ameer Muhammad Abdullah Wani and Jamiat-e-Ahle Hadees Chief Gulam Rasool Malik.Meanwhile, while talking to VOS, Mirwaiz appealed people to uphold the centuries old tradition of harmony and brotherhood. He asked people to remain vigilant of certain forces who are trying to sabotage peace and harmony among different sections of society.

Meanwhile, the Hurriyat Chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq has sternly castigated the government decision to “turn Srinagar into a battle zone and make lakhs of people hostage in their own houses”.

He said it was highly condemnable that due to restrictions people could not move out of their houses to get the daily essentials of life and offer the Friday prayers at Masjids and Shrines. He said the restrictions were also a direct interference in the religious matter of Muslims and termed this policy of government as undemocratic and authoritative.

Mirwaiz once again stressed that Kashmiris should show unity at any cost and foil the evil designs of the agencies who want to create fissures in the muslim Society of Jammu and Kashmir. (VOS)

Omar condoles demise of Gujral

JAMMU, NOV 30: Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has condoled the sad demise of former Prime Minister of India, I. K. Gujral, describing it a great loss to the Nation.

Omar Abdullah said that the Gujral was a man of high principles and stature. He said late Gujral’s contribution to the Nation in various capacities and as the 12th Prime Minister of India is glaring.

Omar said that Gujral set five principles known as Gujral Doctrine which included establishing a good rapport with the neighbouring countries and settling the dispute through peaceful negotiations.

Omar said that late Gujral took part in the Freedom Struggle of India and participating in Quite India Movement. Gujral was great lover of Urdu, he wrote various poetic pieces in Urdu and spoke Urdu fluently.

In his condolence message, Omar Abdullah expressed solidarity with the members of bereaved family and conveyed his sympathy to them. He also prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul.

Dr. Farooq expresses grief over Gujral’s demise

Srinagar Nov 30: The National Conference President and Union Minister Dr. Farooq Abdullah today evening expressed grief over the death of former Prime Minister IK Gujral

In a message issued by the party spokesman, “Dr. Farooq Abdullah while expressing grief said that Gujral was an eminent statesman, a distinguished Parliamentarian and above all a great human being”

He expressed his condolences and heartfelt sympathies with the bereaved family and  prayed to grant peace to the departed soul and strength to the family members to bear this irreparable loss. 

Meanwhile, PDF Chairman Hakim Muhammad Yasin and CPI (M) state secretary M Y Tarigami have also expressed grief over the demise of Gujaral.

Soz grieved at Gujral’s demise

Srinagar, Nov 30: JKPCC President, Prof Saifuddin Soz has expressed grief over the demise of former Prime Minister of Inida, Inder Kumar Gujral.

“I express my deepest anguish at the passing away of  Shri. Inder Kumar Gujral Former Prime Minister and a great contemporary public figure of India. I had the privilege of having a long association  with Shri Inder Kumar Gujral.  which span more than three decades. I had also the privilege of  working with him  as Minister in his Cabinet.

 I knew Shri Inder Kumar Gujral.  as an accomplished  public figure,  erudite parliamentarian, able Administrator and a great Scholar”, Soz said in a statement issued here.

“What impressed me most  about  Gujral was that he never compromised his principles and dedication to the cause of  democracy, secularism  and his  high culture and taste for India”s  pluralism”, he added

Soz lamented the death  as a great loss to the Nation.

“Soz statement came after Saroori stated that BDC election deferred due to Azad”

 Block Development Councils were deferred for a short period: Soz

Jammu, November 30:  Reiterating that Block Development Council (BDC) elections were deferred to empower Panchayats, the President JKPCC Prof Saif-ud-Din Soz on Thursday stated there was broader understanding between coalition partners for the empowerment of Panchayat Raj Institutions (PRIs) on the pattern of 73rd amendment of the Constitution of India by incorporating best provisions in the state Panchayat Raj Act.Addressing a meeting of Sarpanches and Panches at Akhnoor today Soz said that the polls for the Block Development Councils were deferred for a short period, for the purpose of further empowering these institutions and to provide reservation to Women, SCs and other sections. Soz statement came a day after the Former Minister and MLA Inderwal Ghulam Mohammad Saroori while addressing Panches & Sarpanches of Drabshallah and Thatri block of Inderwal Constituency, stated that the BDC polls were deferred at the behest of Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Ghulam Nabi Azad, who had the better understanding of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). He said that due to Mr Azad the BDC election were deferred because election exercise will be futile unless depressed class of society - Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes - and also women folk are not represented at the block and district levels in Panchayat raj system in Jammu and Kashmir.Soz, however campaigning for coalition candidates Sham Lal Bhagat (Congress Candidate) and Dr Shenaz Ganai (National Conference Candidate) at Akhnoor said that the poll for BDCs and district bodies would also be held shortly after the necessary amendments in the State Act. He said that the issue of honorarium to Sarpanches and Panches had already been taken up with the central government.

Unfortunate that laws like AFSPA needed to govern states: Mehboob Beg

Srinagar, Nov 30 (VOS): Speaking on a motion moved by the Home Minister, Sushil Kumar Shinde (Amendments in unlawful Activities Act) senior NC leader and Member Parliament, Mehboob Beg said it is unfortunate that even after over six decades, GoI needs laws like the Unlawful Activities Act or the Armed forces special powers Act to govern a state.

“ If in a Democratic system you need laws like this, that means the Govt has failed to address the aspirations of the people, political or otherwise. Problem with GoI is that when Kashmir goes on a boil, it takes to streets, then the whole attention goes there with the PM nominating committees, interlocutors to suggest ways and means to address the issue. Once things cool down, the Govt just forgets about the place”, he said while speaking in the Lok Sabha today

 He said if problems are taken head-on and honest solutions put in place, laws like AFSPA etc won't be needed.

“Our own people should not be and cannot be governed by such laws", he added.

Kashmir has to be resolved as per people’s aspirations: Shah

Srinagar, Nov 30 (VOS):  Democratic Freedom Party Chairman Shabir Ahmad Shah Friday said that Kashmir issue has to be resolved as per the aspirations of the people of the valley.
“Peace will continue to elude from the subcontinent till the Kashmir issue remains unresolved. Kashmir has been a major confrontation between the two nuclear powered neighbours. They have fought several wars on the issue of Kashmir. By painting a rosy picture facts will not be hidden. It is an issue of the right to self determination for the people of Kashmir that has to be given to them,” Shah said while addressing a large gathering in main chowk of watergam of Baramullah district.  Javaid Ahmad Mir, Muhammad Yusuf Naqash were accompanying Shah on his visit.
He said the government f India has tried every tactics to suppress the freedom movement of Kashmir people but have failed in every respect. “They put thousands of prisoners in jail but they could not beat their vigour and heartiness for the freedom struggle. They could not break their resolve,” he said while being all praise for the Pakistan’s support for Kashmiris at every level.
He said ff the Kashmir issue is not solved according to the aspirations of the people of the valley then the two nuclear powered neighbours can go to war at any extent that could destroy the whole South Asia.
Shah also warned against the hanging of Afzal guru and said that it could have serious consequences from the whole valley.  “This will be highly unacceptable to the people of valley. We will not bear this, it will have serious consequences. This is nothing more than the political vengeance that has to be stopped. They have crossed all the limits, this is the height of injustice,” Shah said. He also criticized the looting of the natural resources of the valley by the authorities and said that they don’t think even while they are hell bent at looting the natural resources of the  paradise on earth.
“On the pretence of reaching out to the Amarnath pilgrimages they are looting our natural resources and destroying our environment. We were helping the Hindu pilgrims at every level but they have created the Amarnath shrine only to loot the natural resources of our paradise,” he said.

Set up Mohalla Committees to keep eye on trouble creators : Nayeem

Srinagar, Nov 30: Senior resistance leader and National Front Chairman, Nayeem Ahmad Khan has appealed for establishment of committees on the Mohalla level to have a close eye on the elements who create trouble among the Muslims on different names.

“Committees on the Mohala level are need of the hour so that those elements are identified who manage to create trouble between Muslims,” Khan said.

He added that Muslims can’t afford to remain in conflict with each other and invite oppressor and suppressor to decide between them.

Khan asked that how is it possible that Kashmiri Muslims can forget the fact that we are jointly being suppressed by such a force who never wants us to be united.

 Expressing sadness over the recent incidents Khan said that those incidents were a result of anti-Mulsim forces’ designs only to divide Muslims. He said that inimical forces hell bent upon dividing Muslims were active in Kashmir whose aim is to engage people in such matters so that they forget the freedom struggle. He asked responsible citizens and religious leaders to come forward to defeat the anti-Muslim and anti movement  forces and ensure mutual peace and harmony.

“The Kashmiri Muslims have often proved the fact that the only point of unity among different sects of Muslims is the Kalimai Tawheed and all the Muslims are one despite different sects and schools of thoughts,” Khan said.

Zafar condemns arrests, harassment]

Urges people to maintain unity
Srinagar, Nov 30: APHC leader and Chairman of Jammu and Ksahmir Salvation Movement, Zaffar Akbar Bha strongly condemning the purported blasphemy by a foreign shoe company has said that  was  a deliberate  to create confusion and attempt to divide Muslims on sectarian basis in Kashmir.

Zaffar Akbar Bhat while addressing a gathering at Aaribagh in Chadoora urged people to  maintain unity and mutual bonhomie and foil the evil designs of enemies .

He said that anti-movement and several agencies were hell bent to create a wedge among Kashimri people mostly Muslims and are creating misunderstanding between Shia and Sunni communities .

He said that people who have been struggling together the ongoing struggle for just cause should keep vigil anti-movement and anti-Kashmiri elements who were disturbing the unity of  our community.

It is a well-planned conspiracy adopted by some of the anti-freedom and anti-Islamic elements who want to give rise to the clashes between the Kashmiris on the name of caste, creed, religion and geographic locations.

Zaffar Akbar Bhat also strongly expressed serious concern over the arrest of dozens of youth and aged civilians by police during the nocturnal house raids in Srinagar city. He also demanded immediate release of the youth.

He appeaing to the civil society and religious leaders to come forward to defeat the anti-Muslim forces and ensure mutual peace and harmony as the ongoing liberation movement is in the final stage and . there should complete unity among the ranks of people and leaders.

J&K Bank warmly sends-off its EP, VP

Srinagar, Nov 30: J&K Bank gave a warm send-off to its Executive President (EP) Sahibzada Ghulam Mohi-ud-din and Vice President (VP) Nazir Ahmad Parimoo who attained superannuation today.

Chairman & CEO Mushtaq Ahmad presided over the farewell meet at Bank’s Corporate Office, which was attended by Executive Presidents, Presidents and other senior officers of the bank.

Hailing the contribution of these officers, who have served the Institution in different capacities for more than three decades, Chairman said, “J&K Bank is marching ahead with confidence because of the commitment and life-long services of its staff members.”

It is because of our dedicated employees that this organisation has transformed itself into profitable financial institution with a unique organizational culture based on integrity and strong sense of identity, he added.

Speaking on the occasion, Sahibzada said, “It is a moment when we feel both satisfied for having been able to contribute something towards this institution. And honestly speaking we have received much more respect and cooperation for our contributions.”  

We feel overwhelmed by the affection and respect from our colleagues throughout our service career and we really are proud to be part of this great institution that serves to empower people financially, said Nazir Ahmad Parimoo on the occasion.  

Winter vacations in Valley from Dec 03

                SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 30: The Government today ordered that the winter vacations of the Government as well as Private recognized Educational Institutions of Kashmir Division including Winter Zones of Jammu Division for Schools upto Middle Standard shall commence from December 03, 2012 upto February 28, 2013, while High and Higher Secondary Schools shall observe winter break from December 15, 2012 upto February 28, 2013.

CJM issues notice to SHO Kralkhud in contempt proceedings

Asks police officer to file reply, appear in person

Srinagar, Nov 30 (VOS): In a remarkable example of Judicial Activism, Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Srinagar, Rajiv Gupta has issued notice to SHO Police Station Kral Khud Aftab Ahmad on Friday in proceedings of contempt of court and directed the SHO to file reply and statement of facts in person in the contempt petition by or before 1^st December.

Sources told VOS, in the case titled Danish Farooq Wani versus State through SHO Police Station Kral Khud Srinagar, Advocate Babar appeared on behalf of the applicant and pleaded that the applicant had moved a bail application on 29 November which was forwarded to SHO for report. Babar pleaded that SHO had received report but did not submit report before the court “under ill will”, thus causing contempt of court, adding “The accused reserves the right to be heard unto the points of law”.

Babar prayed before the CJM Court to initiate contempt proceedings against SHO and pass sentence as is warranted under law, adding “Besides the respondent (SHO) may be directed to submit the report in person before the court today, same would be in the interest of justice”.

The CJM directed the SHO to furnish the reply/statement of facts to the CJM Court by or before 1^st December positively.

When contacted SHO Kral Khud, Aftab Ahmad said that he had not received the copy of the Court order yet.  He further said that the relatives of Danish had sought report on bail application which was ready, adding “But it is the relatives who didn’t contact police station again to receive it till now”.

Talking to VOS, Advocate Barber said that Police cannot punish any one on its own. “The job of Police is to arrest and investigate. It (Police) cannot punish any accused and violate his fundamental and legal rights”, said Babar. “It is the discretion of Court to decide the case on its merits and demerits and to decide whether to bail out the accused or not”, he added. “By refusing to submit the report even after court directions has not only proved contempt of court but has also violates the guaranteed constitutional right of Danish ‘Right to Life and we’ll file a separate case for compensation for that”, said Babar.

Appreciating the Court Directions and serving notice to SHO, he said that a good message has gone out that we’re governed by rule of law but not by rule of man. “CJM Sahab has acted and performed the Judicial Activism in the interest of justice and those who show disrespect to the court directions should know that law will punish them”, said Babar.

He said that Danish is minor and falls under the protection of Juvenile Act. “Haryana and Punjab High Court in the case of Gurpyar Singh v/s State of Punjab has held that even the person 16 plus can fall under the protection of Juvenile Act and Supreme Court has withheld the decision”, said Barbar.

Pertinently, Family members of a class 9 student Danish Farooq of downtown had accused police of detaining their ‘minor’ son in a jail in violation of juvenile norms. However police refuted the family claims, saying Danish is 16 years old and ‘hence not a minor’. The boy has been booked for ‘attempt to murder’ besides other harsh sections.
Danish was whisked away by police personnel of Kral Khud police station on Monday outside lower court after he was granted bail in another case registered against him in Shaheed Gunj police station. 

Kragsoo residents protest non-mecademizing of link road

“Work had been cleared by DDB”

Srinagar, Nov (30 (VOS): With winter setting in, residents of Kragsoo village in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district, few kilo meters (km) away from the main town, protested non-macadamization of  the 1km long link road that was decided to be completed in this year’s district development board meeting.

Locals, while talking to VOS expressed anguish against the concerned department and said that the macadamising of the link road was decided in this year’s district development board meeting held under the chairmanship of State’s Finance minister, Ab Rahim Rather on 21-06-2012.

Residents said, “In this year we demanded macadamization of the link road and this was the single demand from our side during this year.” Adding that this surprising situation for us as we can see government spending crores and lakhs for the macadamisation of roads.  

They said that it seems government has no money for this one kilometre link road.

“The road link from K.P Road to Shah-i-Hamdan colony is in a pathetic condition and cries for immediate attention. It is dotted with deep potholes and ditches, besides dust emanating of it makes commuting a bitter experience. In times of rains and snow the potholes get filled with the water, pushing people to immense hardships.” Mustaq Ahmad a local resident said while taking to VOS adding the road link connects a good amount of populace to the main town.

Residents alleged that the condition of the road never improved due to the indifferent attitude of the concerned authorities.

Sources inside the Deputy Commissioners’ Office in Anantnag revealed that during the current years district development board meeting, written order DDCA/DDB/6279-6354 dated 10-7-2012 was issued in favour of macdamisation of the link road has not been done yet.

KU postpones sessional tests of distance education candidates

Srinagar, Nov 30(VOS): The University of Kashmir has postponed the sessional tests of M A Urdu, under distance education mode which were scheduled to held on Dec 01, 2012.

“All the Sessional tests with regard to M A Urdu( through distance mode ) which were to be held on 1-12-12 , Saturday through directorate of distance Education Kashmir University , are postponed . Fresh dated will be notified separately”, said a KU spokesperson.

Conde Nast Travel Awards: JK bags “Excellence in Regenerating Tourism 2012   

Quality of service in tourism industry will remain our focus: Nasir      

                 NEW DELHI, NOVEMBER 30, 2012 – Jammu & Kashmir was conferred with a special  award in “Excellence in Regenerating Tourism” for the year 2012 by well-known Conde Nast Traveller Magazine at a glittering ceremony here Thursday. Minister of State for Tourism & Culture, Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani, received the award on behalf of J&K State.

J&K has been selected for the “Special Excellence Award” for its efforts in promotion of tourism in the State. A record number of tourists, both domestic and overseas, visited J&K this year. Several national-level conferences and conventions were also held in the State this summer, which were attended by a large number of visitors.

This latest award comes after CNBC Awaaz Travel Awards earlier this month adjudged Ladakh as the best “Adventure Tourism Destination” for 2012.

After receiving the award, the Minister in his address, thanked the Conde Nast Traveller magazine for its recognition of the efforts put in by the State Government in promotion of tourism activities in the State. “We want to assure all stakeholders in the tourism industry that J&K will continue to strive for improving the quality of service offered to the visitors and see high-end infrastructure is created to increase footfall of visitors to the State,” he said.

Speaking on the sidelines of the function held at The Oberoi, here, Mr. Nasir Aslam said both Conde Nast and CNBC Awaaz Travel Awards are one of the most accredited honours for travel and tourism industry in the country and J&K winning special awards this year from both the groups augurs well for tourism industry in the State.

            The Minister said that J&K will continue to excel, set benchmarks and prove its proficiency on global tourism platform. “We in the State have dovetailed tourism with J&K’s rich heritage and culture as we see these two sectors instrumental in driving the tourism sector,” the Minister maintained. 

CM’s Private Office receives 187 deputations,

823 individuals in Nov

            SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 30: Chief Minister’s Private Office at Srinagar received as many as 187 deputations and 823 individuals from different parts of Valley during the month of November who projected their demands besides ensuring the availability of essentials in their respective areas. The demands were subsequently forwarded to concerned departments for their redressal.

            The major problems and issues projected by general public were concerned with the erratic power supply, restoration of transmission lines, shortage of Kerosene oil, dilapidated condition of roads and lanes, expediting the works presently going on for proper drainage system, extreme poverty cases, speedy disposal of loan cases sponsored by various departments to banks and other day to day related issues and problems.

            Pertinently an effective follow up and monitoring system has already been put in place to ensure the concerns of the common masses are addressed in a time bound manner.

            The Chief Minister’s Private Office also provided counseling and awareness to the people seeking financial assistance for setting of their income generating units, besides poverty alleviation, welfare and rehabilitation programmes launched by the Government for the benefit and upliftment of the people.

22^nd Farm Machinery Mela held at Kilam Kulgam

Incentive of Rs 21 lakh to be provided to the farmers

        KULGAM NOVEMBER 30: Continuing with its extensive extension activities Department of Agriculture is Organizing  Farm Machinery Mela’s throughout valley starting from Ist November 2012, today’s 22^nd farm machinery mela was held  at Kilam Qazigund . Speaking on the occasion Nigeen Ahmad Lone chief agriculture officer Kulgam  said that use of Modern Technology, Machinery and Agriculture Inputs could take the state towards  self sufficiency. He stressed on the need to plan cropping system which is economically remunerated ecological sustainable and productive as well.

            He said there is dire need for adopting agriculture based units like Mushroom, vegetable, flower cultivation and Beekeeping, so that the unemployed youth are involved to boost the production in Agriculture and allied sectors. He advised the farmers to coordinate with Agriculture Department for successful implementation of various schemes launched by Department to make state self sufficient in various crops.

            Various registered dealers displayed their stalls during the mela. Among others present on the occasion were District officer, Officers and officials of the department besides large number of farmers. Participating farmers appreciated the role of Department for transfer of latest technology and latest machinery at their doorsteps.

            At the conclusion sub divisional agricultural officer Qoimuh said that the farmers of sub division Qoimuh purchased 140 Irrigation Pump Sets, 4 Tillers, 5 Tractors ,20 foot Sprayers, 30 Polygreen Houses for which department will provide an incentive of Rs21 Lacs.

25 farmers of valley will participate in Agri- Tech 2012 Chandigarh

Union Minister for Agriculture will inaugurate Agro-Tech 2012

            SRINAGAR, NOVEMBER 30: A group of 25 progressive farmers of valley were deputed for participation in Agri-Tech 2012- India’s Premier Biennial Agro Technology and Business Fair from Ist December 2012 to 4^th December 2012 at Chandigarh. Sharad Pawar, Union Minister for Agriculture Govt of India will inaugurate Agro-Tech 2012 Event.

            This event will feature display of best products and techniques in agriculture and could provide opportunity for the farming community to learn about latest technologies advancements and latest practices in the field of agriculture which is sustainable and environment friendly. It is an international business fair that attracts participation from all over the world, besides large scale involvement of the Indian Agriculture sector. In the event international Pavilions of Canada, Italy, Korea, Germany, Netherlands, Uruguay, State India Pavilions will display their products and technology.

            On the concluding day there will be technical workshop and interactive sessions with farmers. Project Coordinator Mushroom S.R. Galotra is accompanying progressive farmers, interactiong with touring farmers he said that the main objective of participating in Agro-Tech 2012 is to make farmers aware about the latest research, development in various field in agriculture and allied sectors so that farmers after their return back shall apply same in their fields and teach other farmers.

For Advertisement:- editorvoiceofsrinagar@gmail.com

Advertisement Manager:-Ishfaq Dar(9797761777)