SRINAGAR,MONDAY,28 RABI AL
SAANI 1434 AH ; 11 MARCH 2013
Email:-editorvosgr@gmail.com
Revoke
AFSPA as first step to resolve Kashmir: Mufti to centre
Jammu,
Mar 9 (VOS): Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has said the
continued use of a law of emergency nature like the Armed Forces Special Powers
Act (AFSPA) is against the letter and spirit of the constitution and amounts to
denial of fundamental rights to life and liberty enshrined in it. Reiterating
his party's stand on the revocation of the special law the party patron Mufti
Muhammad Sayeed today said the very claim of our country to a democratic system
suffers a blow when the people of an entire state are denied fundamental rights
on the pretext of security.Mufti said he had been advocating the revocation of
AFSPA since 2007 when the prime minister had on his suggestion had appointed a
high powered committee to examine the issue. He said continuing the law to
operate in the changed circumstances when the militancy is substantially
reduced and people have overwhelmingly participated in democratic process is a
hurdle in complete normalcy and a set back to peace process. “J&K cannot be
eternally governed through black laws if the region has to come out of its
painful history of discord and destabilisation,” Mufti said.He said that while
it was undeniable that the Kashmir issue had to be resolved amicably to achieve
lasting peace, the reversal of that process after the present government took
over is partly the result of oppression and mis-governance inflicted on people.
He said the level of disaffection among the people only rose during the last
four years and the arrogant attitude of government added fuel to the fires
caused by a series of atrocities committed by its forces.Terming the latest
suggestion of using Army in controlling unrest among people as a serious
setback to process of normalisation, Mufti said any civilian government having
to resort to it is not worth the representative character it claims. "Can
there be a more profound evidence of a government's failure" he asked. The
claim of such a government of trying to lift AFSPA is no more than another
hollow slogan of national conference that has lived off such gimmicks for most
part of their history, he added.Mufti said it was unfortunate that this
government had lost its way on all fronts including governance, development and
people's security. “The government is trying to terrorise people into silence
and in attempting that all norms of decency have been violated,” he said.
Mufti said thousands of youth have been framed in false cases and currently a fresh wave of arrests has seen hundreds more in jails including teenaged children. He said there were reports that parents were being arrested and tortured to ensure 'good conduct of their sons'. The use of cruel methods of crowd control had resulted in hundreds getting affected seriously. "This government has apart from demonising an entire generation of youth created a new industry of crowd control which is exclusive to J&K. In other parts of the country governments are taken to task for minor aberrations of law and order machinery but is our state pepper bombs and pellet guns are projected as a mercy because they don’t killinstantly,”Muftisaid.Calling for engagement of people in a democratic manner, Mufti said all strong arm tactics have only short term impact. By capitulating on major issues the state government has failed to safeguard the interests and dignity of the state and it has reduced itself to a scavenging job, but government of India cannot escape its primary duty towards the people of the state without further complicating the problems. He said unless the democratic aspirations of the people which they repeatedly expressed since 2002 are reciprocated in ample measure Kashmir will continue to simmer and suffer. “Removal of AFSPA and complete restoration of democratic institutions and spirit are the first essential steps in resolution of the problem,” he stressed.
Mufti said thousands of youth have been framed in false cases and currently a fresh wave of arrests has seen hundreds more in jails including teenaged children. He said there were reports that parents were being arrested and tortured to ensure 'good conduct of their sons'. The use of cruel methods of crowd control had resulted in hundreds getting affected seriously. "This government has apart from demonising an entire generation of youth created a new industry of crowd control which is exclusive to J&K. In other parts of the country governments are taken to task for minor aberrations of law and order machinery but is our state pepper bombs and pellet guns are projected as a mercy because they don’t killinstantly,”Muftisaid.Calling for engagement of people in a democratic manner, Mufti said all strong arm tactics have only short term impact. By capitulating on major issues the state government has failed to safeguard the interests and dignity of the state and it has reduced itself to a scavenging job, but government of India cannot escape its primary duty towards the people of the state without further complicating the problems. He said unless the democratic aspirations of the people which they repeatedly expressed since 2002 are reciprocated in ample measure Kashmir will continue to simmer and suffer. “Removal of AFSPA and complete restoration of democratic institutions and spirit are the first essential steps in resolution of the problem,” he stressed.
Majlis
announces 6-day protest calendar
No
strike on Monday, Tuesday; Civil curfew on Wednesday
Srinagar,
Mar 10 (VOS): Mutahida Majlise Mashawrat (MMM), a joint Council
of various separatist organisations, Sunday announced fresh protest calendar
for the coming week calling for a civil curfew on Wednesday.The Majlis
reiterated its call for launching a campaign on social media for demanding
return of mortal remains of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru and JKLF
founder Maqbool Bhat.In a statement to VOS, Majlis asked people not to observe
any strike on Monday and only hold protests after Magrib prayers. There won’t
be any strike on Tuesday either, but the government employees have been asked
to observe one hour pen down strike raising pro freedom and demanding return of
mortal remains slogans.The Majlis appealed the people to observe civil curfew
on Wednesday while on Thursday Kashmiris living in foreign countries and other
justice loving people have been asked to observe protests at Indian embassies
and high commissions to press for the demand of return of mortal remains and to
highlight the “suppression committed by Indian forces in Kashmir.”The Majlis
has called for holding special prayers on Friday and to hold protests after
Friday prayers led by concerned Imams. Male students have been asked to hold
protest demonstration on Saturday in schools, colleges and universities. “By
way of such a protest, it will be conveyed to the whole world that that Shaheed
Afzal Guru was murdered in Delhi’s Tihar Jail in a brutal and unjust manner
while his family was not even allowed to see him for one last time. It will
convey that even after being murdered, that the bodies of Afzal and Bhat have
been kept under detention and that their bodies were not handed over to the
heirs”, the spokesman of the Majlis said.He denounced the restrictions and
curfew imposed by the government and vowed that New Delhi has to return the
mortal remains of Afzal and Maqbool. (VOS)
Despite
SHRC directions forces use pepper gas
Its
use in residential areas dangerous: Health experts
Srinagar,
Mar 9 (VOS): Despite clear directions from the State Human
Rights Commission (SHRC) against the use of pepper gas to disperse protestors,
Government has failed to control police and para military forces who are using
the “deadly pepper gas against protestors in residential areas.”Pertinent to
mention that despite the SHRC banning use of pepper gas, atleast two old age
persons died while as more than 30 persons including minors were shifted to
hospitals after police and CRPF personals used pepper gas in downtown areas of
Srinagar city and in some other districts of valley.While taking cognizance of
the complaint filed by a human rights activist Ahsan Untoo, the SHRC had
impressed upon the authorities to refrain from use of excessive pepper gas. It
was urged that other options be explored while maintaining the law and order.
Police Chief of the State furnished the report dated 18-01-2012 wherein he has
not denied the harmful effect of excessive use of pepper gas and has not dealt
with the allegations in respect of harmful effect of pepper gas.“After
considering the fresh material placed on record, statutory duties is cast on
the Commission to protect, safeguard life, liberty and dignity of the citizens
of the state and cannot be mute spectator. State is duty bound under
constitution and law to protect the lives of the citizens and in no case are at
liberty or have license to adopt such measures which would endanger the health
of its subjects in the name of maintaining law and order,” SHRC member Rafiq
Fida observed in the orderHospital sources admitted that many people including
minors were adversely affected by pepper gas.More than a dozen children fell
unconscious during this week in the Srinagar downtown area. Aisha daughter of
Mohammad Latief and Aalia both from downtown fell unconscious after pepper gas
was used in their localities to disperse the protestors.“Old aged people, women
and children often suffocate and have to remain outside in the air. Use of
pepper gas have made our lives hell,” inhabitants of down town told VOS.People
in Pulwama, Baramulla and some other places blamed that during protests CRPF
and police use pepper guns which adversely affects their health.Talking to VOS
Auqaf Committee Pulwama spokesman Bashir Aazim said, “We have informed
authorities to stop the use of pepper guns immediately, otherwise we will
launch district-wide agitation.”Pertinently, two civilians Abdul Rashid Sheikh
of Qutab-ud-Din Pora, Aali Kadal, Srinagar died due to the inhaling of pepper
gas used by the security forces J&K Police in the vicinity on February 17.
Another person Mohammad Yousuf Sofi son of late Ali Mohammad of Batmaloo died
on February 20 due to use of pepper gas.Health experts speak: Use
of pepper gas in the residential areas is dangerous and is responsible for the
various health risks even the risk of death is not ruled out by health experts.
“Closing of eyes, disconcerting sensation of the eyelids bubbling and boiling,
an instant sensation of the restriction of the airways and the general feeling
of sudden and intense, searing pain the face, nose and throat and coughing
almost always follows the initial spray”, a senior medico told VOS.“The
duration of its effects depends on the strength of the spray but the average
full effects around thirty to forty minutes, with diminished effects lasting
for hours”, he added.Health experts say that pepper spray are far more severe,
including temporary blindness which lasts from 15-30 minutes, a burning
sensation of the skin which lasts from 45 to 60 minutes, upper body spasms
which force a person to bend forward and uncontrollable coughing making it
difficult to breathe or speak for between3to15minutes. They said that it can
cause life risk to the asthma patients and to children, adding, “It could cause
abortion to pregnant woman,” they warned.Deputy Commissioner Srinagar refused
to comment o the issue, saying, “I’m in a meeting and cannot leave it midway to
comment on the issue.” (VOS)
PDD
acts tough against defaulter politicians
Disconnects
their power supplies
Srinagar,
Mar 10 (VOS): Tightening the noose around “powerful and
wilful” defaulters, the Power Development Department (PDD) disconnected electricity connections of some defaulter politicians. They have been asked to clear the pending electricity dues immediately.The politicians whose electricity connections were disconnected on Sunday include ruling National Conference Member Parliament Mohammad Shafi Uri who has balance of Rs 129330, opposition Peoples Democratic Party MLA Rajpora, Syed Bashir Ahmad who has balance of Rs 55 thousands.Similarly, PDP MLA Pampore Zahoor Ahmad Mir’s connections was disconnected for being the defaulter of Rs 37512, Vice President State Congress Ghulam Rasool Kar for Rs 49431, PDP MLA late Abdul Aziz Zargar’s for Rs 42122, NC MLA Khalid Najeeb Sarvardi against the balance of around Rs 50 thousand and Abdul Gani Vakil’s against the balance of Rs 77317.All these politicians quarters are situated at Tulsibagh Srinagar. PDD Assistant Executive Engineer Manzoor Ahmad confirmed to VOS that the connections were disconnected. Meanwhile, Chief Engineer PDD Manzoor Ahmad Matoo told VOS that the drive
would continue irrespective of post and position defaulters. (VOS)
wilful” defaulters, the Power Development Department (PDD) disconnected electricity connections of some defaulter politicians. They have been asked to clear the pending electricity dues immediately.The politicians whose electricity connections were disconnected on Sunday include ruling National Conference Member Parliament Mohammad Shafi Uri who has balance of Rs 129330, opposition Peoples Democratic Party MLA Rajpora, Syed Bashir Ahmad who has balance of Rs 55 thousands.Similarly, PDP MLA Pampore Zahoor Ahmad Mir’s connections was disconnected for being the defaulter of Rs 37512, Vice President State Congress Ghulam Rasool Kar for Rs 49431, PDP MLA late Abdul Aziz Zargar’s for Rs 42122, NC MLA Khalid Najeeb Sarvardi against the balance of around Rs 50 thousand and Abdul Gani Vakil’s against the balance of Rs 77317.All these politicians quarters are situated at Tulsibagh Srinagar. PDD Assistant Executive Engineer Manzoor Ahmad confirmed to VOS that the connections were disconnected. Meanwhile, Chief Engineer PDD Manzoor Ahmad Matoo told VOS that the drive
would continue irrespective of post and position defaulters. (VOS)
Shifting
of Army camp in Baramulla: Div Com refuses to comment on the issue
Srinagar,
Mar. 10 (VOS): Playing safe over the issue of shifting of an Army
camp in Baramulah, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir said that only home minister
can comment on the issue. “Only Home Minister’s can decide whether to shift the
army camp from old town or not. I can’t comment on the issue”, Samoon told VOS
when asked to comment about the demand of people to shift the camp from their
locality.However, he said that Rs 10 crore out of Rs 50 crore have been
released by the centre for road widening in North Kashmir. Samoon said that
under the project roads in North Kashmir would be widened, adding, “Police
station will be established and the land required for the construction of
police station building will be purchased,”Terming the project ‘old wine in new
bottles’, Chairman Auqaf Islamia Baramulah Abdur Rehman Shala demanded that
rehabilitation of affected house holders and shopkeepers should be given
preference during the implementation of the project.“Road from Azadgunj to
Tawheed Gunj would be widened under this project. Various meetings had been
held for it and I was part of those meetings,” he said. (VOS)
IG
CRPF refutes Div Com’s claims
“We
follow our SOP in letter and spirit”
Srinagar,
Mar 9 (VOS): Inspector General Central Reserve Police
Force (CRPF) V S Yadav Sunday denied allegations regarding the involvement of
its personnel in any sort of ransacking incident during the prevailing
situation of Kashmir. In response to news report in which Divisional
Commissioner Asgar Samoon had stated that CRP should follow the standard
operating procedures (SOP) and had appealed the people to contact
administration in case of any excess by paramilitary forces, the IG told VOS
they did not ransack any home or religious places. “These are all false reports
we have been following our SOP in letter and spirit, I don’t know about which
(SOP) Divisional Commissioner has talked,” he said.Yadav said about 350 CRPF
personnel were injured and 130 vehicles damaged in the last few days of
protests “as our men tried maximum restraint on their part.”“What more can we
do?” he asked.The IG claimed that strict instructions have been given to forces
not to open fire, “till their own lives are in a serious threat.”Responding to
another report in Kulgam Yadav said, “Five of our men have been severely
injured, though they could have opened the fire but instead they exhibited
wisdom by restraining themselves. There are some elements who want to spoil the
harmony between CRPF and Police.”On the use of pepper gas the IG said, “We
don’t use it.”The IG refuted the allegation regarding the harassment of medical
staff but was quick to add that ambulances sometimes ferry passengers which can
lead to a problem. (VOS)
Omar, Azad lay foundation of Sant Manjit Singh Medical Institute
Underline healthcare most important concern
Omar vows efforts for healthy J&K
Azad lists Central initiatives for modern health facilities
Srinagar Mar. 10 (VOS): Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah and Union Minister for Health and
Medical Education, Ghulam Nabi Azad Sunday underlined modern health facilities
significantly important for development of healthy and strong society. Laying
foundation of Medical Collage Hospital for Sant Manjit Singh Institute of
Medical Sciences and Research at Jeevan Nagar about 15 kilometres from hear,
Omar Abdullah and Ghulam Nabi Azad said that growth of medical institutes in
the State especially in private sector is need of the hour. They said that such
institutions help government efforts to upgrade health facilities and enhance
medicare coverage.The Chief Minister in his speech said that his government has
flagged health sector as one of the most important concerns in the State’s
development policy and consolidation alongwith expansion received priority
attention during the last 4 years. He said stress has been laid on improving
healthcare facility in rural and far-flung areas by strengthening health
institutions and creating required infrastructure.“It is easy to built
buildings and other required infrastructure in villages and difficult areas but
placing of manpower to run institutions especially those in health and
education sectors has been the concern in Jammu and Kashmir all along”, he said
unless a good hospital equipped with necessary equipment is provided with
necessary paraphernalia, doctors and specialists, its outcome and benefits to
the people will not be up to the mark.“During the last four years my government
has concentrated attention on
this aspect and special initiatives have been taken utilizing National Rural Health Mission and other schemes to provide enhanced
salaries and other perks to doctors and paramedics to make them serve and stay
in hospitals in the rural and difficult areas”, he said adding that to reduce
the pressure on city and town hospitals it is imperative to upgrade and improve
the health facilities in rural areas and place required doctors and other staff
there to make these health institutions fully function. “It has been observed
that even doctors obtaining medical degrees under special categories and
dispensations shirk to work in the areas and for the people they were given
concessions for in trainings”, he said and added that the service rendered by
doctors is pious and they take oath after entering the profession of serving
the mankind sincerely and devotedly. He said that the mindset of making medical
professional means to realize economic goals needs to be changed. “Doctors are
bound by the oath they take for rendering best service to the mankind”, he said
and asked them not to convert their holy service into commercial one.Highlighting
the necessity of good health of every member of the society, Omar Abdullah said
that creation of colleges, universities, roads, bridges and other facilities
and moving forward on road to prosperity will not be meaningful if the society
is confronted with health problems and people do not enjoy good and robust
health. “It is as such important that health service receives highest
attention”, he said and gave details of the initiatives government has taken in
this direction. He said healthy Jammu and Kashmir is his earnest mission and
all efforts have been put in to achieve this goal.Expressing his congratulation
to the management of the Sant Manjit Singh Trust for taking a pious initiative
of developing a Medical Institute and Research Centre near Jammu, Omar Abdullah
expressed the hope that it would prove highly beneficial both for rendering
modern health services to the people and producing medical graduates of high
quality and calibre. He also extended Shivratri greetings to the people on the
occasion.Since the birthday of Omar Abdullah falling on March 10 coincided with
the event, as such, the large gathering present on the occasion gave him hearty
greetings and standing ovation for sparing time on his special day to be
present with them and lay foundation on an important institute linked with the
common people.In his elaborative speech on the occasion, Ghulam Nabi Azad
presented details of the new initiatives taken by his Ministry during the last
three and a half years to upgrade health facilities in the country. He referred
to the amendments made to the Medical Council Act to encourage growth of
private sector in the medical field.Azad said that various restrictions were
removed and provisions made soft for private players to invest in medical
education sector and expand the modern health facility all across the country.
He said 60 percent medical institutes are in private sector in India and most
of these are in Maharashtra and Southern States. “We are trying and
facilitating growth of these institutions in other areas like Jammu and
Kashmir, UP, Bihar and Odisha”, he said and gave details of the concessions
being provided by the Union Government in this regard.Underlining the
importance of qualified faculties in medical institutions, the Union Minister
said that he has enhanced the retirement age limit of teaching faculty in AIIMS
and other Central Medical Institutions in the Country. “I have written to all
the Chief Ministers in this regard urging them to take similar steps so that
faculties in the State-run institutions remain intact”, he maintained.The Union
Health Minister also referred to the Central scheme introduced for protecting
health of pregnant and infants. He said the scheme is under implementation
throughout the Country and has shown positive results to reduce the mortality
of new born children and pregnant women. He said pregnant women are being
provided free transport, medicine, food and treatment under this scheme in
government hospitals and each pregnant from villages after delivery gets Rs.
1400 cash while the pregnant women from cities get Rs. 1000 each.Azad said that
his Ministry is extending special grants and help to Jammu and Kashmir to help
upgrade health and medical education sector and extend its reach to all areas
in the State. He said he has recently sanctioned grants for 200 ambulances for
Jammu and Kashmir.Minister for Housing and Horticulture who is also MLA of the
area in his speech lauded the initiative taken by Sant Manjit Singh Trust to
establish a Medical College and Hospital in the area adding that an Engineering
College is already being run by the Trust there. He said the educational
institutions and hospitals extend benefits to entire society rendering most
important service to the people. He said growth of these institutions in
private sector indicates the positive trend in a vibrant society.Deputy Chief
Minister, Tara Chand, Mahant Manjit Singh, various Ministers from State Council
of Ministers, Parliament Member, Legislators, Panchayat Members, former
Ministers and Senior Citizens were present on the occasion.Mahant Manjit Singh
presented vote of thanks while former Minister, S. Ranjit Singh welcome the
dignitaries on the occasion.
Peerzada visits Shahdara
Sharief, takes stock of its working
Srinagar,
Mar. 10 (VOS):
Minister for Haj, Auqaf and Floriculture Peerzada Mohammad Sayeed on Sunday
visited Baba Ghulam Shah Budshah Shrine (Shahdara Sherief) Rajouri and took
stock of its functioning.The Minister went round the premises of the Shrine and
inspected various structures being erected for the facilities of the devotees
in the Shrine. Issuing on-the-spot instructions to the executing agencies for
accelerating the pace of construction work, Peerzada asked them to complete the
projects within the stipulated time frame. He asked them to use quality
material while strictly adhering to specifications and use funds judiciously.The
Minister was apprised that besides kind offering, the Shrine receives annual
income to the tune of Rs. 5 crore which is being utilized for the benefits and
welfare of the devotees by organizing langars and raising infrastructure of the
Shrine. He was informed that out of the total income of Shrine, the shrine also
contributes in the expenditure of BGSB University and one school being run
in the area. The Minister also paid obeisance at the Shrine and prayed
for peace and prosperity for the people of the State. On the occasion Local
residents also called on the Minister and apprised him about their problems.
They presented a charter of demands including construction of additional
shed within the premises of Shrine, expansion of road connectivity to the
adjoining areas and engagement of locals in BGSB University whose land was
acquired for raising infrastructure of Shrine and University. The Minister
assured them that their genuine demands would be looked into and
resolved on priority.
Mir Distributes Incentive
Kits under Vegetable Initiative
Launches
Kitchen Garden Scheme for Srinagar City
Srinagar,
Mar. 10 (VOS): Minister For Agriculture Ghulam
Hassan Mir said that for promotion of Kitchen Garden Scheme, 60 hectares of
land would be covered under Kitchen Garden Scheme in the Srinagar city
under which 2000 Persons would benefitted by launching the Scheme. The Minister
was addressing at a seed distribution function organized by Directorate of
Agriculture Department here today.The programme was initiated today with
distribution of Seed Kit of Radish, Beans, Sag, Seedlings of Knol Khol,
Cauliflower, Tool Kits comprising of hand-hoe and Khurpa, Vermi Compost bags
and vegetable calendar indicating package practices of various vegetables among
the registered beneficiaries. The schedule for distribution has already been
notified and accordingly incentives were distributed by Minister for
Agriculture Ghulam Hassan Mir today at Lalmandi Srinagar. On this occasion
Minister said that this unique initiative, first of its kind in the state, aims
at promoting organic vegetable growing in the available land within people
living in Srinagar city. He said that scheme will increase the safe and good
quality vegetable production level in Srinagar city and make the local
vegetable self-reliant. He advised people to coordinate with Agriculture
Department to make kitchen garden scheme successful. Mir said that Kashmir valley
is suitable climatic conditions for vegetable crops. He stressed upon the
officers of the Department to replicate scheme in all the major towns of the
valley. Mir said that Governments’ thrust is to decrease the cost production in
Agriculture by way of introduction of quality hybrid seeds and technological
innovations. Director Agriculture Kashmir Dr. Farooq Ahmad Lone said that use
of new technologies and natural resources would not only help in increase
vegetable production but also reduce labour component drastically. He said that
people of Srinagar have shown good response towards kitchen gardening and
appreciated the efforts of Agriculture Department in this regard.Director said
under this scheme, 500 qtls of Vermi Compost, 2000 Tool kits, 25 Kgs of Sag,
35.5 Kgs of Redish, 125 Kgs of French beans, 20 Kgs of bhindi seeds besides
350000 Knol khol, 126500 Cauliflower Seedlings and 2000 vegetable calendars
were distributed among registered beneficiaries in Ist phase. Among others
Joint Director Agriculture Inputs, K. A Qasba, Joint Director Agriculture
Extension, Malotra, Project Coordinator Mushroom, Galotra, officers and
officials of the Agriculture Department besides large number people were
present.
Sagar reviews
Ganderbal Distt plan
Stresses for judicious use of funds, achieving of tangible
targets
Srinagar,
Mar. 10 (VOS): Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Ali
Mohammad Sagar today exhorted upon officers to ensure maximum benefit of
developmental and welfare schemes launched by government to the people and
perform duties with full zeal, enthusiasm and sense of responsibility.Sagar
said that government is committed for the welfare and prosperity of the people
besides accomplishing better economic status of the State.. This was stated by
the Minister while addressing a meeting of officers to review the various
developmental activities being executed in Ganderbal District here today.The
Minister was apprised by the District Development Commissioner Ganderbal, Mr.
Itrat Hussain that against the approved allocation of RS 69 crores an amount of
Rs 44 crores stands spent upto ending February which constitutes 77% and was
assured that 98% of target will be achieved by the end of current fiscal year.On
the occasion various other projects being executed under State sector in the
Ganderbal were also discussed. Sagar asked about the status of 200 bed district
hospital under construction at an estimated cost of Rs 52 crores. The Minister
enjoined upon the executing agencies to speed up the pace
of work on the
construction so that people of area can avail better healthcare facility at
their doorstep besides reducing the rush in upper reach hospitals.Sagar also
enjoined upon district administration for speedy execution of under
construction Bus yard at Ganderbal which is being constructed at the cost of Rs
19.41crores.Sagar impressed upon district administration to speed up the process
of construction of 2-lane road from Zakoora to Wayil on priority.The Minister
was informed that Shadipora and Gund Roshan bridges would be thrown open for
public by April-May this year.The Minister was informed that under pilot
project 96 water supply schemes at the cost of 3.50 crores have been taken up
out of which 45 schemes have been commissioned fully.Sagar directed the
concerned officers to take out the rest of schemes within stipulated time.The
Minister directed district administration to provide better health care
facilities and adequate drinking water facility besides supply of electricity
as per schedule in the district. Later, Sagar took extensive tour
of Srinagar City and took stock of various ongoing developmental works being
executed for the welfare of people in the Srinagar. The Minister visited
various areas of Srinagar including Rainawari, Mughal Mohalla, Miskeen Bagh,
Raiteng, Dolat Abaad and other adjoining areas While interacting with the
people Mr. Sagar said that government is committed for the peace, prosperity
and progress of the State. He directed the officers to make availability of
essential commodities in the city besides availability of adequate drinking
water facility and supply of electricity as per schedule so that people do not
face any difficulty.Sagar also asked the officers of UEED to complete the all
the works being executed for the better drainage and sewerage system in the
city.He also directed officers of SMC to construct few latrine points at
Miskeen Bagh area.The Minister was accompanied by officers of R&B, UEED,
PHE, PDD, SMC and other concerned departments.
Speaker LA Mubarak Gul
expresses condolence
Srinagar,
Mar. 10 (VOS):
Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir, Legislative Assembly, Mubarak Gul today visited the
residence of organiser J&K Rural Development Society Jammu Province Sham
Gupta at Bakshi Nagar to express his condolence on the sad demise of his
mother-in-law who passed away yesterday.Gul expressed sympathies with the
bereaved family and prayed for eternal peace to the departed soul.
Salathia meets deputations
“Govt. committed for welfare of people”
Jammu Mar. 10 (VOS):
A series of Public meetings at Rangoor Camp, Dollian, and
Teli Basti in Vijaypur constituency led by Shri. Surjit Singh Slathia MLA
Vijaypur and Senior Vice
President J&K National Conference. While speaking on the occasion at Rangoor Camp Shri Slathia assured that the demands like Construction of Shamshan Ghat road, black topping of road from Rangoor Camp to Balad Post, Construction of road from Govindgarh to Rangoor Camp would be taken up soon Slathia asked the people to identity the land so that the ladies bathroom could be constructed at the earliest. Laterally Slathia inaugurated construction of lanes and drains at Teli Basti which has been constructed by the rural development department at the estimated cost of Rs 9.50 lacs.Addressing a large gathering Slathia said coalition government headed by Omar Abdullah is fully aware of people’s problems and is making all out efforts to fulfill their demand on priority. Slathia reiterated the commitment of the coalition government to ensure holistic development of all the regions of the state with special focus on remote , far- flung and rural areas .He said the state is on the march of peace , progress and development and this tempo will be carried forward with a mission .He cautioned the people about the machinations of vested interests and divisive forces that were misleading the people for furthering their political agenda. He said that National Conference has a chequred history of public services and it has withstood the test of times by maintaining harmony and brotherhood between various sections of the people.Earlier, the various people of different political parties after resigning joined National Conference on the occasion at Dollian. Slathia welcomed them in the party fold and said that party’s doors are always open for those who believe in the policies and programmes of the party.
President J&K National Conference. While speaking on the occasion at Rangoor Camp Shri Slathia assured that the demands like Construction of Shamshan Ghat road, black topping of road from Rangoor Camp to Balad Post, Construction of road from Govindgarh to Rangoor Camp would be taken up soon Slathia asked the people to identity the land so that the ladies bathroom could be constructed at the earliest. Laterally Slathia inaugurated construction of lanes and drains at Teli Basti which has been constructed by the rural development department at the estimated cost of Rs 9.50 lacs.Addressing a large gathering Slathia said coalition government headed by Omar Abdullah is fully aware of people’s problems and is making all out efforts to fulfill their demand on priority. Slathia reiterated the commitment of the coalition government to ensure holistic development of all the regions of the state with special focus on remote , far- flung and rural areas .He said the state is on the march of peace , progress and development and this tempo will be carried forward with a mission .He cautioned the people about the machinations of vested interests and divisive forces that were misleading the people for furthering their political agenda. He said that National Conference has a chequred history of public services and it has withstood the test of times by maintaining harmony and brotherhood between various sections of the people.Earlier, the various people of different political parties after resigning joined National Conference on the occasion at Dollian. Slathia welcomed them in the party fold and said that party’s doors are always open for those who believe in the policies and programmes of the party.
DFP
denounces arrest on MAlik
Srinagar,
Mar. 10 (VOS): Democratic
Freedom Party (DFP) has reacted sharply to the arrest and attack on the JKLF
Chairman Muhammad Yaseen Malik and said that these attacks would not deter the
freedom loving people. DFP said that attack on Malik is an attack on the
pro-freedom people. According to statement issued to VOS, by these
arrests the aspirations of the pro-freedom people does not die but gets a new
vigor and heartiness. It is not for the first time that Malik has been arrested
but this has happened before with Malik and other separatist leaders. “Geelani
sahib, Mirwaiz sahib, Shabir Shah Sahib and Malik sahib have also been attacked
before at the behest of the communal elements. These attacks and arrests will
not suppress the aspirations of the people of the valley for the right to self
determination,” DFP spokesperson said. “Malik has said it in Pakistan and again
in Delhi that he is firm on his political struggle.” “These arrests, attacks,
lifers, harassments will not suppress the aspirations of the people of the
valley and the pro-freedom leaders. If these arrest and attacks would have
changed anything then it would have happened before, but that has changed
nothing and will not change in future,”
said DFP Spokesman. “The whole Kashmiri nation is fighting for the
return of the mortal remains of Afzal Guru and Muhammad Maqbool Bhat and will
not stop till their mortal remains are returned to their family members,”
spokesperson added.
Ishfaq
visits Gandbl, demanded ex-gratia relief for drowned victims
Srinagar, Mar. 10 (VOS): Congress
Leader, Sheikh Ishfaq Jabbar conducted extensive tour to various villages of
district Ganderbal including Kangan and Wakoora block and took stock of the
problems being faced by the people on Sunday. During his visit several
delegations met the leader and apprised him about their individual and
collective problems including upgradation of electric infrastructure, health
centres, schools, road connectivity and sports infrastructure.Sheikh Ishfaq
assured them that he will project their genuine demands with the government at
the appropriate level.Interacting with people at different places, he said that
government has launched number of welfare schemes to improve their living
standard with focus on weaker sections of the society.Responding to the demand
for adequate drinking water facilities in Ganderbal Constituency, he assured
that he will personally make efforts in this regard.He pointed out that peace
and order is absolutely necessary for progress and present situation in the
valley necessitates frequent visits by government functionaries to ensure that
people do not face any problem.He also demanded that government should sanction
early ex-gratia relief to the next of kins of youth of Batwani village who died
by due to drowning in the river recently.
Need for Restorative not selective justice: KC
Srinagar,
Mar. 10 (VOS):, Member of
Kashmir Committee (KC) Waheed Ur Rehman has said that there was a dire need for
adopting restorative justice in Kashmir and center should revisit the case of
thousands of Kashmiris languishing in different prisons. He has said that KC
has adopted measures of legal aid to bail out sensitive political personalities
of Kashmir but the justice of revenge and prejudice has limited the scope and
faith in judicial process. According to statement issued to VOS, Rehman further
added that with regard to CBM’s and addressing alienation the need for
Confidence building measures was more required within country than in Kashmir
as the level of alienation against Kashmiries is more higher within India. In a
written statement Waheed has expressed that Kashmiris are lesser alienated
people than mainland Indians who are not sensitive enough with the contemporary
situations prevailing in Kashmir and the central government has been addressing
Kashmir via Islamabad situation. Waheed, stressed that there was a dire need
for a strong and consistent Kashmir policy rather than a foreign policy on
Kashmir. Speaking on the issue of integration he stated that integration is a
two way affair and can’t go with force, official press conference or symbolic
appearances it demands emotional healing and reconciliation between parties. He
maintained that any imposed dialogue or peace will be a time buying process and
a waste. We have a multiple number of cases with regard to Kashmir where law is
becoming a hurdle in process of justice and reconciliation. Such prolong
process, pendency and denial by judiciary has only alienated people
rather bridging. Kashmir needs a package of Justice in letter and sprite. He
added that today 50% population of state was young who are loosing faith in
judiciary, elections and democratic process such an alienation will not only
radicalize the young but invite the gun culture again. Maintain that Centre
should immediately ensure the release of political prisoners, allow a space to
divergent views and stop the hegemonic culture of rule in state of J&K.
Waheed said, New Delhi has undermined the importance of youth population rather
than understanding it, if necessary steps are not taken to address the issues,
the lava of revenge and hate will continue to hatch and explode at any
unpredictable time.
KCSDS denounces used of force
Demands AFSPA revocation
Srinagar, Mar. 10 (VOS):
Reiterating the demand for withdrawal
of forces from cities and towns
immediately and complete withdrawal of
AFSPA from the state, Kashmir Centre for Social and Development Studies (KCSDS)
has strongly condemns loss of precious lives at the hands of forces , the fire arm injuries to hundreds of
young and old persons and . The killing of
Tahir Ahmad Sofi in
Baramulla in particular has once again brought the spotlight on the unwarranted presence of army
contingents in the civilian areas and the special legislation (AFSPA) which
empowers them to kill on mere suspicion
The centre also warns the Govt against allotting more land to forces everywhere especially in
Baramulla which has been already converted into a huge Chawni .In the
present case of the killing of Tahir and fatal injury to Ajaz Khan
, their purpose was simply to terrorize people and keep them in line.Any kind of inquiry by army is a fait
accompli and we reject it at its inception as we know the fate of other
such inquiries be it Bijbehara massacre inquiry or Pathribal or scores
of others. The members also condemn
in strong terms the use of
pepper gas for its far reaching insidious
and disastrous effects on the population of the locality where it is exploded.The expert opinion tells
us that sick adults,senior citizens , being subjected to toxic gas within their
homes far from the scene of agitation can be afflicted with deadly clinical
problems The infants and toddlers are peculiarly vulnerable to the noxious
effects of the pepper gas.The centre also takes strong exception to the use of
pellets on protesters in Varmul old town
which has resulted in severe injuries to 85 persons. Every barbarian method is
used here which has been abandoned elsewhere to
suppress dissent and subjugate people in spite of the fact that it has never worked.KCSDS has also taken strong objection to the out of turn statement by director NHPC
for refusing the return of power projects
of Salal, Dulhasti,Uri and Sewa to the state.The members have advised
him to check the legality and constitutionality of holding on to these projects before speaking. His corporation has
miserably failed to produce any document with regard to any lease agreement with the
state for the land or property on which
these projects have been set up or any license for power generation which is absolutely necessary under J@K Electricity Act. KCSDS lambasts the Govt for not making genuine efforts to get back these power projects which people of the state have been demanding
for a long time. Now anger is growing in
the youth against the loot of our water
resources while they cannot read and
write in perpetual dark winters.It is a
pity that a middle rank officer can dictate terms to the state Govt which has
become used to swallowing insults with utter ‘helplessness.’The centre also
severely criticized the Govt for not getting its share of 20per cent power from
Thin Dam and water for irrigation purposes from Punjab Government.
NATIONAL
India new economic icon of emerging powers: Khurshid
New Delhi, Mar 10 (PTI) India with its robust legal structure, banking system and skilled manpower is the new economic icon of emerging powers and is sure to be on track again for 7 per cent growth, External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid said today."India with its good legal structure, corporate governance, banking system, financial system and skilled man power has become the new economic icon of emerging powers.
CBI officers probing DSP's death should not be from UP: Wife
Parvin Azad, wife of slain DSP Zia-ul-Haq, demanded on Sunday
that the CBI officers probing his husband's death should be either from Delhi
or some other states but not from Uttar Pradesh.
In a letter to the Uttar Pradesh government, she
said their bio-data should also be provided to
her.The CBI officers probing the matter should be either from
Delhi or some other states but not from Uttar Pradesh, Parvin said.In the
letter, she said the officials should not send their report to the CBI but
submit it to a court.A copy of the report should be provided to her, Parvin
said.She said the case should be heard in a special court within a fixed
time-frame.BSP leaders Swami Prasad Maurya and Naseemuddin Siddqui met the
DSP's wife.Maurya said the guilty should be arrested immediately and President rule
imposed in UP.
Seven kids among 8 die in German apartment fire
BERLIN: An early-morning fire on Sunday at an apartment building in southwestern Germany left eight people dead, seven of them children, police said. Three other people were injured in the fire in Backnang, a town near Stuttgart, and taken to hospitals. Police said the victims were of Turkish origin, news agency dpa reported; Turkey's ambassador to Germany planned to travel to the scene. Authorities were alerted to the blaze at 4.30am (0330 GMT). Police said they believe the fire broke out in a second-floor apartment, and said in a statement that their investigation is focusing on a heater in the apartment. The building is part of a former leather factory that was converted into a row of three-story apartment blocks. Police spokesman Klaus Hinderer told dpa that 13 people are registered as living in the two apartments worst affected by the fire, though it wasn't clear how many were there when the fire broke out. Police said a German-Turkish cultural association has an office on the building's ground floor. They said there was no indication that the fire might have been set deliberately or have been a racist attack.
SPORTS
Difficult to say if Dhoni had a hand in Viru's ouster: Ganguly
NEW DELHI: Former Indian captain Sourav Ganguly on Sunday sought to clarify his statement on Virender Sehwag's ouster from the Test squad, saying he had never categorically stated that Mahendra Singh Dhoni had a hand in opener's omission. A media report on Saturday had quoted Ganguly as saying that, Dhoni had a hand in his the player's removal from the team and it also stated that if Sachin Tendulkar and Dhoni are being "persisted" despite poor run of form, then why not with Sehwag. Ganguly said, "It's very difficult to say whether Dhoni has a hand in Sehwag's exclusion but normally captains do have a say in team selection." "That's been the case with all captains, whether its me, Dravid, Tendulkar, Kumble, Dhoni, Azhar or captains around world cricket. They normally have an opinion and a say about team selection," he stated. Having said that Ganguly also said that the selectors do not always agree with the demands of a captain. "That doesn't mean that Captains' opinion is taken all the time by the selectors. At times, they do listen and at times they don't. So it's very difficult to say whether Dhoni had a hand in Sehwag's exclusion."
Ram Singh suspended from NIS, claims he did drugs with Vijender Singh
PATIALA/CHANDIGARH: Olympic bronze-medallist Vijender Singh's roommate and sparring partner Ram Singh was expelled from the National Institute of Sports on Sunday after admitting that he consumed drugs with the star boxer, who may soon be questioned by the police.Serving as a head constable with Punjab Police, Ram, a former national championship medallist in the super heavyweight category, told reporters in Fatehgarh Sahib that he and Vijender experimented with drugs on a few occasions. The admission came after he was grilled by the police. Ram, who is being quizzed daily, and Vijender's name cropped up during the investigation into the recovery of Rs 130 crore worth of heroin in Zirakpur on Thursday. The 27-year-old Vijender, a DSP with Haryana Police, has steadfastly denied involvement in the scandal but has not reacted to Ram's fresh claims so far. Police sources said that Vijender is likely to be called for questioning on the basis of statements made by Ram as also alleged drug peddler, NRIAnup Singh Kahlon. When asked whether Vijender was being summoned, Fatehgarh Sahib SSP Hardyal Singh Mann did not give a clear answer saying, "At the moment the priority is to zero in on four-five persons actively involved in the drug trade," he told PTI. Their names have emerged based on the interrogation of Kahlon and five others arrested in the case, he said. Meanwhile, a factory belonging to relatives of an Arjuna awardee wrestler was searched by Punjab police in a village in Fatehgarh Sahib on Sunday. A senior police officer said two persons have been rounded up and were being interrogated. The officer said police is conducting raids to arrest wrestler Jagdish Bhola, a dismissed DSP of Punjab Police, who is the alleged kingpin of a gang recently busted by police with the arrest of Kahlon. Executive director of NIS LS Ranawat confirmed Ram's expulsion in Patiala. "Ram will be relieved from the camp here from tomorrow," said Ranawat, adding that Vijender would continue to remain in the camp. Asked about Ram's presence in the national camp, he said the boxer was not in the original list and was included only on Vijender's recommendation. Ram told the police that Kahlon had first given him about two grams of heroin in December last year without charging money. Ram said that he and Vijender consumed the drug during a drive from Chandigarh to NIS. Ram, during the interrogation, had said since then that the he and Vijender "consumed small quantities of drug" on a few occasions, given to them by Kahlon. Kahlon had attempted suicide in police custody on Saturday. "I and Vijender experimented with drugs thinking that they were food supplements. We did not know that we were taking drugs. We were told that we were consuming a food supplement meant to increase strength and stamina," Ram said. An SUV registered in the name of Vijender's wife, Archana, was found by the police near the flat where Kahlon and his driver were arrested during the drugs recovery. Despite the claims made by Ram, Vijender is unlikely to be tested by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA). Sources in the NADA told PTI that Vijender's case was a matter to be investigated by the police and the anti-doping agency has no role in this. "It's basically a police and narcotics case and the NADA is not in the scene," a top NADA source said. Vijender, a former world number one, gave India its first Olympic medal in boxing when he clinched a bronze in the 2008 Beijing Games. Besides, he is an Asian Games gold-medallist and a multiple-time Commonwealth Games medallist. Considered the poster boy of Indian boxing, Vijender has stated that he does not know the alleged drug peddler caught by the police. An NRI of Canadian origin, Kahlon is allegedly known internationally in the drug cartel.
3rd Rajiv Gandhi Gold cup football tour. concludes, Taj distributes prizes
Srinagar, Mar. 10 (VOS): The 3rd Rajiv Gandhi Gold cup football tournament which opened on March 3, concluded today.Minister for Medical Education, Youth Services and Sports Mr. Taj Mohi-ud-Din distributed prizes among the winners of the final match.Twenty teams from within and outside the State, including the famed Churchill Brothers from Goa participated in the tournament. The Final Match was played between JK Forest and Sher-E-Punjab.Addressing the concluding function, the Minister said that the promotion of sports was important for the society and development of sports infrastructure has been flagged as an important component as it’s the priority of present government, adding that various steps have been initiated in this regards.He said various stadias and playgrounds have been developed on modern lines for providing better facilities to the youth.Earlier, the Minister met the players of the both the finalist teams and wished them well.
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