SRINAGAR,WEDNESDAY,16 RABI AL SAANI 1434 AH ; 27 FEBRUARY 2013

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Peace uncertainty stumbling block in economic progress: Omar

‘Unresolved political issues between Indo-Pak makes situation more fragile’

             JAMMU, FEBRUARY 26 – Describing uncertainty of peace major stumbling block and quite unfriendly for promotion of industries and tourism, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Tuesday said that the unresolved political issues between India and Pakistan have further hampered the process of growth and economic development in Jammu and Kashmir. “When you are confronted with uncertainty and political instability, the normal process of progress is severely hampered”, he said underlining the need for initiatives aimed at cultivation of permanent peace in the State.Replying questions of students of Mass Media from Wilson Collage of Mumbai at an interaction meeting here, the Chief Minister said that the growth and promotion of tourism and creation of required tourist infrastructure alongwith industrialisation largely depends upon the peace and conducive atmosphere prevailing in the area.The students who are here on a 7-day study tour put host of questions to the Chief Minister pertaining to various aspects which were answered by Omar Abdullah in detail.In reply to a question regarding return of KPs, the Chief Minister said that the lack of sense of security among them forced them to leave the Valley and his government is working to create a situation which would help to re-cultivate this sense of safety in them and they return voluntarily. “We have initiated various measures and are implementing a special package with the assistance of Central Government for the return of KPs to Valley”, he said adding that their return cannot be forced.On the issue of human rights, Omar Abdullah mentioned his advocacy for constitution of Truth and Reconciliation Commission on South Africa model to find out answers to so many questions that are associated with militancy and violence related incidents.The Chief Minister said that Jammu and Kashmir presents a mosaic of cultural and geographical diversities. “We have three different regions of Jammu, Kashmir and Ladakh and there are sub-regions within the regions with variegated cultures, dialects and heritage”, he said adding that holistic and equitable development of all these regions and sub-regions in accordance with the particular requirement in particular sectors are being handled by the government through a comprehensive policy programme.On power generation, Omar Abdullah said that his government has taken new initiatives to generate hydro electric power and various projects have been already launched through Joint Venture Company while many are under execution in PPP and IPP mode. He said by the end of 7 to 10 years the State is expected to transform from a deficit energy State to power sufficient one.Replying a question about the use of plastic, the Chief Minister said that government is determined to reduce the use of plastics in the State and ban on polythene is already in force. He said most of the food items are coming from outside the State in tetra packs or tin foils which create problem in managing the cleanliness of cities and towns. He said that the issue of pollution can be addressed in its right perspective when the government and people work together towards this goal. He said better civic sense is imperative to keep the surroundings clean and arrest pollution.The students also asked questions about drug use, urbanization, sadbavana programme of army, handling of situation in the State after the hanging of Afzal Guru, functioning of government, working of media, village defence committee, infrastructure development, tourism, trade, environment, etc which were replied by the Chief Minister elaborately.

Government serious to settle issues of PoK refugees: Ajaz

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 26 –Minister of State for Revenue, Relief & Rehabilitation, Mr. Ajaz Ahmad Khan today said Government was serious to settle the issues of PoK refugees/ displaced persons  of  various categories.Chairing a first interactive meeting of concerned officers and representatives of various refugee organizations here today, the Minister stressed the need for urgent redressal of issues confronting the refugee community. He asked the officers to complete all verifications and formalities in a time bound manner so that the records are prepared properly.Mr. Ajaz directed immediate disbursement of cash relief in favour of 353 families of 1947 PoK refugees whose cases were found correct after verifications. He directed the Provincial Rehabilitation Officer to process the verification process of another 1075 unverified cases.On the problem of urban displaced persons, the Minister was told that out of 148 cases received for plot allocations, 48 cases were found to have completed all formalities. He directed re processing of all applications received till 2004.Assuring the representatives of refugees of a humanistic consideration by the Government, Mr. Ajaz said completion of processes and formalities in this regard would be made time bound and even in the case of other issues matter would be taken up with Central Government also.Asking the refugee representatives to co operate with the Government, the Minister appealed them to de politicize their problems which he said are purely humanistic in nature.In their speeches, the representatives hailed the Minister for listening to their problems with an open ear. They hoped that under his leadership many of their issues would be redressed.Present in the meeting were MLC, Mr. Ravinder Sharma, former Minister, Mr. Manjit Singh, Financial Commissioner, Revenue, Dr. Arun Kumar, Commissioner-Secretary, Revenue, Mr. B. A Runiyal, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Mr. Pradeep Gupta, Deputy Commissioners of Jammu, Kathua and Samba and representatives of various refugee organizations. 

Sagar discusses proposed recommendations to Panchayati Raj Act

JAMMU, FEBRUARY 26:- Minister for Rural Development & Panchayati Raj, Ali Mohammad Sagar, has said that the government is considering the suggestions received from different quarters recommending amendments to J&K Panchayati Raj Act which will be sent to cabinet soon.“This will make the Act more democratic in nature besides addressing the concerns of various stakeholders in the Panchayati Raj system”, he added.The Minister was speaking at a high level meeting convened to discuss recommendations of high level committee constituted to examine the suggestions received from different quarters and also private member bills tabled in the assembly regarding the same.Commissioner/Secretary Rural Development, Farooq Ahmed Peer, Commissioner/Secretary Law, G.H.Tantray and other senior officers were present in the meeting. It is pertinent to mention that various suggestions have been received from different political parties, social organizations, organizations of the elected representatives of panchayats and experts in the field of Panchayati Raj recommending that the J&K Panchayati Raj Act, 1989 should be updated and made more realistic.The committee after detailed deliberation presented the report, which was discussed in detail and the Minister asked the committee to present the same within a week for placing the same before the Cabinet so that necessary amendments are incorporated in the J&K Panchayati Raj Act. The government will table the proposed amendments before the State Legislature in its current Budget Session.

Lone for channelizing talent of youth in nation building activities

Stresses for ensuring quality education, discipline.

SRINAGAR, FEBRUARY 26: Minister for Higher Education, Mr. Mohammad Akbar Lone today exhorted upon college principals of valley to adopt innovative measures and efforts besides provide quality education system based on modern methods to the students besides inculcating moral and ethical values among them.This was stated by the Minister while chairing a meeting of college principals of the valley convened to review the functioning of the colleges in the valley here today.The Minister said that progress and prosperity of the nation depends upon the educated youth and there is need to channelize their energy in nation building activities. He enjoined upon all college heads to work with zeal and enthusiasm and make sincere efforts to take State’s higher education system to new zenith besides shaping the future of students so that State can achieve new heights of success at national and global level.Mr. Lone said that emphasis is being laid on job oriented courses enabling pass outs to face the competitive world with much more confidence and vigour, the Minister said, adding that impetus is being given to further enhancing academic standards and improving infrastructural facilities.While appreciating the efforts of college staff, Mr. Lone said that government is committed to uphold the college standards and urged upon them to endow best education to the students. He directed them to share responsibility with dedication for the prosperity and welfare of the State. He hoped that management of the colleges in the State would gear up for meeting the challenges in the field of education.A monitoring cell has been set up at apex level for undertaking academic auditing in institutions of higher learning in the State the Minister added, which shall look after the pace of ongoing works being executed for building up the infrastructure of various colleges in the State.Mr. Lone directed all college heads to ensure regularity and punctuality in their institutions besides enjoined to maintain attendance registers of the enrolled students and ensure attendance positively so that they can get maximum benefits of the facilities being provided by the government. He stressed for adopting proper procedures and maintaining discipline with accountability in purchasing deals.The Minister also enjoined upon college principals to submit details DPR’s to the higher education department so that action can be taken at an earliest.

Efforts being made to empower women in every sector of day to day life:  Sakina

            SRINAGAR, FEBRUARY 26: The Minister for Social Welfare, Ms. Sakina Itoo Monday reiterated the resolve of the Government to ensure proper development of every section of society with focused attention towards women folk adding that development of women is development of nation.

            The Minister said this while addressing one day workshop on Gender Budgeting at Entrepreneurship Development Institute (EDI), Pampore. The workshop was organized jointly by J&K State Rehabilitation Council and Social Welfare department and was sponsored by Union Ministry of Women and Child Development The Minister said that the aim of organizing such workshop was to make women aware about the schemes launched by the Government for overall development and welfare of women folk. She said various welfare schemes have been launched by various departments including power, R&B, PHE, Social Welfare, Handicrafts, Sheep & Animal Husbandry, Industries etc. for empowering the women in society.Ms. Sakina urged upon the women folk to come forward and take advantage of these welfare schemes adding that empowerment of women is top priority of the Government.

            The Minister said that it was the revolutionary step of Omar Abdullah led Government that Panchayat elections were held in the State after the gap of 32 years to provide better means of employment opportunities besides ensuring development at local level in rural areas.

            Ms. Sakina said RTI and ESGA are such steps which made people closer to the administration. She said that we all should work together to make Jammu and Kashmir a prosperous State besides called upon the officers to keep public representatives, both male and female aware about the works they are executing in the respective areas.The representative of the Union Ministry of Child Development, Dr. Sanjay Matray also addressed the workshop, besides Director, Rural Development, Kashmir, Director, Social Welfare, Kashmir and Director Rehabilitation also spoke on Gender Budgeting on the occasion.Among others, officers of Social Welfare department, ICDS, Panchs, Sarpanchs and Anganwari workers were present on the occasion.

Farmers flagged off for exposure visit to Haryana

                BANDIPORA, FEBRUARY 26: The department of Agriculture is going to depute 500 farmers within the district and 30 farmers within the State for exposure tour shortly under Technology Mission and RKVY respectively.

            This was state by the Chief Agriculture Officer, Bandipora after he flagged off 10 farmers from here under Agriculture Technology Management Agency (ATMA) for 7 days exposure tour to PAU Ludhiana and Indo-Israel Vegetable Project, Gharaunda Haryana where they shall be imparted training on different fields of agriculture.

             The Chief Agriculture Officer said that a district level exhibition-cum-vegetable show shall also be organized under ATMA in the district.

Putting bill in public domain aimed at leading to better legislation: Omar

‘Bill to undergo scrutiny; Public feedback will be incorporated’

Srinagar, Feb 26 (VOS): Terming the strong reactions from various stake holders to the proposed Police Bill 2013 as ‘manufactured outrage’, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah today said putting the draft bill in public domain was basically aimed at leading to a ‘better legislation’.

“Why this manufactured outrage regarding the draft police bill? It hasn't passed public scrutiny let alone been seen by me & the cabinet”, Omar wrote on the micro blogging website Twitter adding “This is why I ordered the Home Dept to put this in the public domain in the 1st instance so that feedback would lead to better legislation”.

While suggesting that the criticism and outcry was premature, he said the bill will have to travel a long way before taking the shape of a law.

 “Public feedback will be incorporated, Law Dept will vet, I will clear it, Cabinet will approve it, both Legislative houses will vote on it”, Omar wrote further.

He said with a series of scrutinizing checks, there was no chance of an unhealthy legislation getting passed.

“It will THEN go to Governor for his signature & FINALLY it is implemented so there is NO chance of bad legislation passing scrutiny”, Omar wrote on twitter.

Pertinently, the J&K Police Bill 2013 has attracted strong criticism from various quarters in the state especially in the Kashmir Valley.

The 76-page Jammu and Kashmir Police Bill, 2013, posted on the state home department's website Feb 15, allows the state to declare any area disturbed, proposing setting up "Special Security Zones (SSZs) where administrative and development measures are integrated with police response for problems of public order and security".

The bill proposes that police will be able to set up and arm village defence committees and recruit special police officers (SPOs).

Under the draft legislation, a police officer would be considered "always on duty" and the government as well as the complaints authority deputed to hear cases against him/her would have legal immunity regarding decisions taken by them "in good faith or intended to be done in pursuance of the provisions".  (VOS)

Mufti reiterates demand for return of Afzal’s body; writes to PM

“Minimum the Govt can do to apply balm to deep wound”

Srinagar, Feb 26 (VOS): Former Chief Minister and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Patron, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today wrote a letter to Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh in which he reiterated demand of his party to return mortal remains of Mohammad Afzal Guru to his family for proper burial and last rites.

“I request you to take necessary measures to accommodate the wishes of the people of the state and a majority of them in the country to have Afzal Guru's remains returned to his family for last rites and try to retrieve whatever little can be of the trust of the people in Kashmir”, the PDP patron said in an open letter addressed to the Prime Minister.         

“I am writing to you not to seek any concessions for the state but am suggesting a way out to restore to some extent the prestige lost by the country in the entire sequence of events around the hanging. It would also reduce the pain of his family and perhaps open the way for some rebuilding of bridges at the psychological level between Kashmir and rest of the country. I have already said that the return of Afzal Guru's remains to his family is the minimum that government of India could do to apply some balm to a deep wound. Needless to mention the denial of a decent burial in accordance with the religious practices of the deceased has created anxiety within the community even outside the state in rest of the country”, the letter further reads.

Addressing the Prime Minister, Mufti said the people of state would view their status in India through the hanging off Guru apart from setting a negative reference point in history.

“I am writing this letter after an agonizing fortnight that in my opinion witnessed all the efforts at rebuilding a relationship of trust between Kashmir and rest of the country almost evaporate into thin air. The manner in which Mohammad Afzal Guru was executed in secrecy and very obvious unholy haste is not just another hugely negative reference point in our painful history but it could have the potential to redefine the very nature of how the people here would view their status within the union. And I am deeply anxious about its possible fall out on our younger generations who had been struggling to come out of a nightmarish experience of life marked by blood and tragedy”, the letter reads.

He said an overwhelming majority of people here and most of the secular, liberal public opinion in the country have expressed their reservations about the quality of trial Afzal received. “While it is too late now to mention that beyond its academic and historical significance it is the events that preceded and followed the hanging that have become such a sore point the like of which I have not witnessed in my fifty years of public life. The fact that the feeling of pain and anger did not erupt the way some had perhaps apprehended may not be construed as an absence of it. I had since the very beginning pleaded for commutation of the death sentence keeping all the factors in view. But even though your government has been seeking advice on matters when things look bad as in 2010 when an all party conference was convened, you completely ignored the voices of sanity on Afzal's hanging”, it further said.
“The sad facts of the run up to the hanging will unfortunately stand out for their peculiar characteristics that don't convey to J&K a message of being equal partners in the idea of India, much less showing any sense of accommodation or respect for the sentiments of a majority of its residents. Never in a democracy of our size and quality is a convict culled out of a queue from serial number 28 and sent to gallows. Never is a dying convict denied a last meeting with his family. Never is a condemned man denied what is now established as a last chance to seek judicial intervention after spending 12 years in jail. The people of Kashmir felt he was hanged because the noose fitted only the neck of a man of Afzal's description and given the sad history of state's association with the union they easily relate themselves with his fate”, said Mufti addressing Singh.

“This unfortunate event came at a time when you as prime minister and your distinguished predecessor Mr Vajpayee had invested a great deal in a peace process that in spite of setbacks had the potential of rewriting the destiny of South Asia. It happened after the people of the state had reposed their faith in democratic methods and processes even in the face of odds and the failure of the establishment to respond in a matching measure. The result is an uneasy, forcibly implemented calm and an internalized anger; ingredients for an unpredictable future”, he added.

We ‘were’ part of MMM consultations: Hurriyat (G)

“Give up mainstream politics, join freedom struggle”

Srinagar, Feb 26 (VOS): Terming the statements of certain Hurriyat (G) leaders where they had said the amalgam was not consulted by the Mutahida Majlise Mashawrat (MMM) while framing its protest programme as a result of some communication gap, senior Hurriyat Conference (G) leader and General Secretary of Muslim League, Abdul Ahad Parra said the Geelani led faction of Hurriyat Conference was very much part of the deliberations.

“Our representatives were very much present in the meeting on directions of Geelani Sahib. He had authorized the representatives to attend the meeting on his behalf and nobody had gone there on his own”, Parra said while talking to VOS and added that the statements suggesting the contrary may have resulted out of lack of communication.

He said that all parties were present in the meeting either through their leaders or through their approved representatives.

The Hurriyat (G) leader called upon the mainstream politicians to join the freedom movement after giving up pro-India politics. “They should restore their honor and dignity by being part of the movement for welfare of the nation. Our doors are open for every one. Mainstream politicians should resign join the freedom moment. They should learn how Member of Parliament Ghulam Nabi Rattanpuri was insulted by Delhi Police and not allowed to meet Geelani Sahab”, said parra.

“They should introspect on what they have done against the people of the nation and serve the nation as freedom fighters by joining Hurriyat”, he added.(VOS)

Omar informed about hanging 3 days ahead: Bhim Singh

“BJP has become essential part of NC”

Srinagar, Feb. 26 (VOS): Claiming that Chief Minister Omar Abdullah was informed three days ahead of execution of parliament attack convict, Mohammad Afzal Guru, Panthers Party today said the latter had given assent to the execution in order to please the central government.

“He was informed about the execution three days ahead of hanging. It is unfortunate that he couldn’t even bring the dead body of Afzal Guru back after failing to save his life. All this is happening because of his ineffective performance at the centre”, Patron of the Panthers Party, Bhim Singh told VOS over phone from Delhi.

On the possibility of return of Afzal’s body to his family, he said, “Law of the land is very clear that any death occuring in any jail, whether it is natural or execution, body has to be handed over to family. No law in the world allows contempt or desecration of the dead body”.

He said Dr. Farooq Abdullah being a senior cabinet member in centre could have used his influence to commute the capital punishment of Guru or could now facilitate return of the body.

 In response to a question whether he felt there was danger of the situation in valley further worsening, he said, “When was it peaceful? NC is the A team, Congress is the B team and now the two parties have made BJP their C team. All want to fulfill their dreams without catering to the general public. As long as the A team and the B team are there, situation will not improve. BJP has now become an essential part of NC”, said the PP Patron.

Questioning the intentions of Prof. Saifudin Soz, Bhim Singh said the Congress is creating a drama over the implementation of 73rd amendment in the state. “It is a mere eye wash. Congress is itself in the government. If it feels that NC is not serious about grass root democracy, let them withdraw support”, said Singh. (VOS)

Remote sensing database to upgrade planning: Omar

Underlines harmonization of collection, reflection of real-time information

Jammu, Feb 26:  Underlining the harmonization of collection and reflection of real-time database essentially important for effective planning and better decision making, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Tuesday highlighted the importance of Spatial Data Infrastructure (SDI) this regard in a State like Jammu and Kashmir presenting mosaic of geographical diversity, remoteness of areas and hilly terrains.

“A real-time spatial database available to planners and decision making authorities would significantly help in improving governance and reaching out to people on development front according to their requirements and development needs in particular sectors”, he said and added that collection, storage and usage of data acquired through latest technological interventions and its harmonization in a holistic manner would serve as a king-pin in decision making and planning process.

Formally launching the State Spatial Data Infrastructure (SSDI) project and addressing the sensitization-cum-demonstration workshop in this regard organized by the Department of Environment and Remote Sensing here this morning, the Chief Minister said that Geographical Information Service (GIS) mapping of social sectors like health, education, road communication, forest conservation, etc is now a modern concept of basing schemes and infrastructure development programmes on the data collected through this method.

The Chief Minister said that in a State like Jammu and Kashmir SSDI initiative to address forest denudation issues, construction plans in hilly-backward and remote areas, conservation of water bodies and protection of environment, is all the more essential and cost saving as the data collected and stored could be utilized by different departments in a harmonized manner without going for collecting the necessary information independently.

 “The information so available would help the government to make decisions more effectively and based on real-time database. This system would also depict real need and relieve the decision making bodies to depend on needs perceived”, the Chief Minister said and added that SSDI would help in fine tuning the decisions of the government. He said the information available through SSDI would be easily understandable, real-time and help upgrade the quality of governance and quality of decision making.

The Chief Minister said that while reviewing the activities of Department of Environment and Remote Sensing at its Srinagar Campus he had assigned some projects to it. “I am glad that the department’s one of these projects on healthcare accessibility has won the national e-governance award for the year 2012-13”, he said. He expressed the hope that the department would strengthen its working to meet the growing planning needs of various departments.

Minister for Forests and Environment, Mian Altaf Ahmad, Minister of State for Cooperatives, Dr. Manohar Lal and Minister of State for Science and Technology, Feroz Ahmad Khan in their speeches on the occasion highlighted the importance of State Spatial Data Infrastructure project for Jammu and Kashmir. They expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for his keen interest in upgrading the planning and decision making process through modern technology utilization.

Prof Talat delivers special lecture on seismicity, rise of Himalayas

Srinagar, Feb 26: Renowned geologist and Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir Prof Talat Ahmad today delivered a special lecture on ‘the major issues of the earth system sciences’ which included a session on seismicity (earthquake activity) in the Himalayas and the impact of rise of the Himalayas on the changing climate of the region.

The lecture was organized by Department of Geography and Regional Development, University of Kashmir as  part of the six -day ongoing seminar-cum-workshop on ‘the application of Remote Sensing, GIS & GPS in resource management’.

Emphasizing on the need for sensitizing the young researchers, scholars, teachers and students of earth sciences including those of geography and geology about the burning issues faced by the earth system, Prof Talat Ahmad said “We have to make youth understand the burning issues of earth sciences and how various climatic changes and tectonic shifts affect the environment around them.”

Talking about the seismicity in the Himalayan region, he said “We are part of the Indo-Australian plate, which makes this region susceptible to earthquakes. Besides the trends over the last 50-100 million years show that India has moved further towards the North which provides us some good understanding of the Indian Peninsula. There are several seismic gaps and abduction gaps in the Himalayan region due to which this region has witnessed several devastating earthquakes in the past.”

Pertinently Kashmir witnessed a devastating earthquake on October, 08, in 2005 in which around 86, 000 people died on both sides of the LoC.

While delving on the relationship between the elevation of earth surface and climate he said, “Movement of tectonic plates cause subduction which in turn causes volcanism. When volcanic eruption occurs, carbon dioxide is released in huge quantity and it mixes with the atmosphere, which ultimately increases the temperature of the earth.”       

Highlighting the role of Himalayas in the climate change of the region like recent trends in monsoon, Prof Talat Ahmad said, “Tibetian plates (Ladakh region falls in this region) are on the higher altitude than main Indian plates. Being located at the higher altitude, the atmosphere there becomes hot which results in less rainfall and hence less vegetation and this is the reason why we find huge portions of rocky surfaces in the area.”

“Whereas” he added “Cherrapunji as per the records available received 1.56mm rainfall on 16th June 1995 in one day, 9.3 mm rainfall in one month in 1861 and 26.5 mm in one year in 1860-1861 which reflects that climate is intimately linked to topographic relief of earth`s surface through interaction between lithosphere and atmosphere.”

After the lecture an interactive session between the teachers representing various colleges of the valley and Vice Chancellor was also held.

Besides various faculty members of the department Prof T.A Kanth SAP-UGC Coordinator, KU from Dept of Geography, Head Department of Geography and Regional Development Prof Mohammad Sultan Bhat and Senior Assistant Professor Dr Pervez Ahmad were also present on the occasion.

Police bill anti-people, aimed at giving police unbridled powers: Jamaat

Srinagar, Feb 26 (VOS):  Terming the proposed J&K Police Bill 2013 as anti-people, the Jammu and Kashmir Jamaat e Islami has said the bill is a well thought out official scheme to bestow police with unlimited and unbridled powers.

“To make police a people-friendly force, effective and just vigilance of this department is necessary and all human rights violations committed by it should be made a heinous crime and no police authority should have any impunity in this regard”, said the Jamaat spokesman Advocate Zahid Ali in a statement.

“Jama’at-e-Islami J&K while terming the proposed bill as anti-people government plan rejects it outrightly and appeals Kashmir Bar Association, Civil Society and Human Rights experts to take effective measures for making public aware about its detrimental effects and stopping the government from turning this inhuman Bill into a law”, he added.

“Whereas the basic duty of police is to provide safeguards and protect the rights of the people for which police should be fully accountable like other government institutions and to achieve this end such laws should be devised which make police fully accountable in use of its authority without any legal impunity or relaxation. In this case no concession should be given to any police personnel from superior officer to sub ordinate in case of any misuse of power”, the statement added.

The Jamaat called for enacting of humane laws to discourage all government authorities from working in an arbitrary manner.

“The atrocities on common masses in Kashmir by the police and other security agencies is a known fact and it was the need of the hour to impose effective curbs on such atrocities by framing reasonable and stable laws to this satisfaction of the people that no government institution including that of police is above the law and any authority violating their rights could be easily charged and punished under law”, the statement said.

“But in the proposed Bill, instead of providing legal checks on the police, more stress has been given on the ways of suppressing peoples’ voice against government oppression and this Bill two has been tactfully drafted on the pattern of TADA, POTA, AFSPA like black laws to give a legal cover to these police atrocities and to make it easy for the government to suppress the masses through the police”, it added.

APSCC decries lack of Sikh representation in legislature

Vote bank politics, lobbying choking Sikh representation in JK: Raina

Srinagar, Feb 26 (VOS):  While reiterating its demand for providing due representation to Sikh community in the state legislature, Chairman All Party Sikh Coordination Committee (APSCC), Jagmohan Singh Raina, today said vote bank politics and lobbying is choking Sikh representation in Jammu and Kashmir legislature.

“The Sikhs of Kashmir are again wondering how to have a stronger representation in Assembly as the candidates fielded by all three major political parties in upcoming LC elections have no Sikh leader”, said Raina in a statement issued to VOS.

“It is unfortunate that the state government is not interested in resolving any issues of Sikhs. In Prime Minister’s job package not even a single Sikh in Valley was appointed,” said Raina.

He said many new forces are coming up in the political arena and ruling coalition should do things to preserve their traditional minority vote.

Adoption of police bill will establish despotic dictatorship on Israeli pattern: ANC

Srinagar, February 26: Sharply reacting to the proposed Police Bill, the Jammu and Kashmir Awami National Conference Tuesday said the move would set the state on course to establish a fascist dictatorship ‘on Israeli pattern’. 

“Jammu and Kashmir is already groaning under the oppressive black laws. By adopting the Police Bill on the pattern of draconian Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, the government would not only resurrect the infamous autocratic rule of the yesteryears but also establish a despotic dictatorship on Israeli pattern,” party’s Senior Vice-President, Muzaffar Shah, said in a statement.

He asked the National Conference-Congress coalition government to visualize the far-reaching disaster the proposed law would unleash and reconsider its decision. “The move is aimed at strengthening its oppressive hold over state people,” he said.

“If the rulers feel the people are no longer with them, would enforcement of black laws in any way enable them to win over the alienated people,” he asked, adding it was imperative to provide much-needed relief and amenities to the people rather than arm the police and security forces with sweeping powers.

“We fail to understand the rationale behind the proposed move. On the one hand, the government swears by total or partial revocation of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, and on the other, it proposes to equip the state police with similar powers,” Shah said, expressing total surprise over the ruling dispensation’s move.

Expressing grave concern over the move and describing it as anti-people, Shah urged the coalition government to desist from adopting the proposed Bill, which, he said, was apt to generate a deep sense of indignation and outrage among the people.

Smuggled timber seized in Anantnag

Srinagar, Feb 26 (VOS): Kokernag forest officials Tuesday seized 220 Cu feet kail timber being smuggled out of the area. The illegally felled timber was estimated to be worth Rs. 4 lakh.

According to officials, in the compartment number 116K, Ghulam Ali Khan R/o Char Panchgam had illegally cut down the kail tree and was about to smuggle it out of the area.

“It was a big tree and was planted in 1960’s. On specific information I set up the team and caught the accused red handed and seized the timber in his possession. Police station Laroo has registered an FIR in this regard and the accused has been arrested. More investigations is likely to unveil some other smugglers”, DFO Anantnag Dr. Balaji told VOS.

He said illegal activities will not tolerated and any one found violating law will be dealt strictly as per rules. (VOS)

Family demands Geelani be allowed to shift to Srinagar

Say, “His health condition is deteriorating”

Srinagar, Feb 26 (VOS):  While claiming that the health condition of Hurriyat (G) Chairman Syed Ali Geelani has deteriorated, the octogenarian separatist leader’s family today demanded that he should be allowed to shift to Srinagar.

“We are extremely worried as we had been told that he had been shifted to AIIMS or Appolo Hospital in Delhi. But, when we confirmed from different sources in Delhi, we came to know that he has not been hospitalized”, said the ailing leaders younger son Naseem Geelani.

While expressing concern over his “deteriorating health conditions”, the family said since doctors in Srinagar have been treating him for several years, ‘they could handle his ailment in a better way’.

“We have no direct communication with him and we have to rely on information from neighbours and friends in Delhi. We demand that he should be allowed to shift to Srinagar without any further delay”, the family members added.

Ratanpuri takes up issue with Azad, Shinde

Meanwhile, National Conference leader and Member of Parliament, Gulam Nabi Ratanpura today conveyed the concerns of family and followers of Syed Ali Geelani regarding his health.

“Met Health Minister Azad Sahib and Home Minister Shinde Ji and conveyed to them the concerns of family n followers of Geelani Sahib, about his health. Azad Sahib assured all that may be required to keep Geelani Sahib in good health and Shinde Ji directed the concerned to depute a team of doctors, including one Kashmiri cardiologist.”, said Ratanpuri in a statement issued this evening.

“I told the Home Minister that the gall bladder and one and a half kidney of Geelani Sahib has been removed. He suffers from chronic bronchitis, prostatitis, spondylosis and other complications of old age and his heart is fitted with a pace maker. So his confinement can't be termed less than cruel.”, he added.

Ratanpuri said he expected the confinement of Geelani to end in a couple of days.

“ I also conveyed the concern of Mr. Naseem Geelani that denying his father a mandatory daily walk may cause irreparable damage to his health. I wanted to know from the Home Minister why requirements of law are not fulfilled while confining Geelani Sahib to his extremely small flat, without serving a written order and thus denying him the legal remedy to his confinement too. I expect that the confinement of Geelani Sahib may end in a day or two”, he added. (VOS)

Return of body:

Have already written to PM, made request in person: Omar

Srinagar, Feb 26 (VOS):  Reacting to the letter of PDP patron Mufti Muhammad Syeed addressed to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh where he has demanded return of Muhammad Afzal Guru’s body to his family, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah broke silence over the issue claiming that he had already taken up the issue with the PM.

“I had hoped to avoid playing politics with the body of Afzal Guru but that seems to be impossible to avoid with the Mufti Sayeed letter now. I had written to the PM on the 19th of this month asking for the return of the bodies of both Afzal Guru & Maqbool Bhatt to their families”, Omar wrote of micro blogging website Twitter.

Omar said he had also taken up the matter with the Prime Minister in person.

“I followed this up with a visit to the PM to make the request in person a few days ago. My Govt will continue to raise this issue with Delhi”, he added.

Pertinently, parliament attack convict Muhammad Afzal Guru was executed on February 9 at Tihar jail in Delhi, however, his body was not returned to his family for last rites. In a similar case of hanging, Muhammad Maqbool Bhat was hanged in the same jail while his mortal remains also remain buried at Tihar. (VOS)

AMA denounces Mirwaiz’s house arrest

“Govt resorting to political retribution”

Srinagar, Feb 26: The Jammu Kashmir Awami Majlise Amal has said that government was resorting to political retribution by continuously placing Hurriyat (M) Chairman, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, under house arrest.
In a statement issued today, the Majlis vehemently condemned the house arrest of Mirwaiz during its central working committee meeting convened by GN Zaki, general secreatry Majlis, at party headquarters Mirwaiz Manzil, Srinagar.
The participants said that laying restrictions on the political, religious, and social activities of APHC Chairman has become a permnanet part of government policy. They said being the head priest and political leader of Jammu and Kashmir, Mirwaiz has engagements with the public. If he is not released and restrictions are continued to be imposed on his activities, the particpants said the people would come on roads and agitate against this policy of the government.
The particpants have expressed serious concern over the arrest of hundreds of non-violent protesters and hurriyat leaders in the aftermath of hanging of shaheed Afzal Guru. The particpants further hailed the timely response of Mirwaiz where he expressed concern over the anti-people police bill, 2013.

 NATIONAL

Rail Budget 2013: Govt's push for austerity as railways to lose Rs 24,600cr

NEW DELHI: Losses of the Indian Railways are estimated to increase to Rs 24,600 crore ($4.55 billion) in the financial year ending March 31 due to a sharp rise in input costs, resulting in "deterioration of services", railway minister Pawan Kumar Bansal said on Tuesday.Presenting the annual Budget of his ministry, Bansal said the loss, which was Rs 4,955 crore in 2001-02, surged to Rs 22,500 crore in 2011-12 and is estimated to rise to Rs 24,600 crore in the current financial year. And to cut the mounting losses, the railways would maintain financial discipline. "Austerity and economy in expenditure will be observed by the railways rigorously and no wastage will be permitted," said Bansal. He hoped that the fiscal measures taken by his ministry would help improve the railways' financial condition in the coming years."As a result of our consistent efforts at maintaining strict financial discipline during the year, the operating ratio is estimated at 88.8 percent. This is a source of great satisfaction as the operating ratio has consistently been over 90 per cent since 1997-98." Bansal said the Indian Railways planned to invest Rs 63,363 crore ($11.5 billion) in the financial year beginning April 1 mainly on expansion of tracks and improving passenger safety measures.The total planned investment for the current financial year has been lowered from Rs 60,100 crore to Rs 52,265 crore.The Planning Commission has tentatively pegged the railways investment target for the 12th Five Year Plan period (2012-17) at Rs.5.19 lakh crore, with a budgetary support of Rs.1.94 lakh crore and railways internal resources of Rs 1.05 lakh crore."The thrust of the plan is on doubling of tracks, safety and passenger and staff welfare, for which I have increased the outlay from about Rs 11,410 crore in 2012-13 to Rs.13,220 crore, an increase of 16 per cent," Bansal said. Bansal said the railway would get Rs 26,000 crore budgetary support in the current financial year to finance its plan expenditure.Other sources of financing included Rs 14,260 crore from the railway's internal resources and Rs 2,000 crore from the railway's share in road safety fund. There was a plan to raise Rs 15,103 crore from the market and mobilise Rs 6,000 crore through public-private-partnership (PPP) route to fund its expansion plans in 2013-14. Bansal said 500 km of new railway lines would be built and 450 km of narrow and medium gauge lines would be converted into broad gauge lines in the financial year beginning April 1, 2013.The government has also set a target to double 750 km of single railway lines. 

INTERNATIONAL

Hot air balloons banned in Luxor after crash leaves 19 dead: Egypt governor

CAIRO: The governor of Egypt's southern province of Luxor on Tuesday ordered a ban of allhot air balloons flights in the ancient temple city following a deadly crash that killed 19 tourists."Governor Ezzat Saad ordered that all balloon companies stop working, and that no hot hair balloon flights take off from Luxor," the official MENA news agency reported, without specifying how long the ban would remain in place.A hot air balloon exploded as it was flying over Egypt's ancient temple city of Luxor on Tuesday, killing 19 people including tourists from Hong Kong, Japan, France and Britain, a security official said."Nineteen people died," the official said.The balloon which was carrying 21 people was flying at 300 metres (yards) over Qurna, inLuxor's West Bank, when it caught fire before exploding, the official said.The two survivors, including the balloon's pilot, have been taken to hospital, he said.

Rocket fired from Gaza Strip hits southern Israel: Police

JERUSALEM: A rocket fired from the Gaza Strip landed early Tuesday near Ashkelon in southern Israel, police said, in the first such strike since a November truce"The rocket fell early in the morning near Ashkelon and did some damage to a road, without hurting anyone," said police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld.It was the first such attack since the end of an Israeli operation late November, during which more than a thousand rockets were fired into Israeli territory from the Gaza Strip, which is controlled by the Islamist group Hamas.The two sides finally agreed a truce on November 21 following the eight-day Israeli military operation inside Gaza.The violence killed 177 Palestinians, about a hundred of them civilians, as well as six Israelis, four of whom were civilians, according to figures issued by the two sides.Tuesday's rocket fire comes at a time when tensions are particularly high following the weekend death of a Palestinian prisoner in an Israeli jail, who the Palestinians say had been tortured.Thousands of Palestinians thronged the West Bank village of Sair on Monday for the funeral of Arafat Jaradat, a 30-year-old father of two and member of the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Brigades.Both the Palestinians and the United Nations special coordinator for the Middle East peace process, Robert Serry, have called for an independent inquiry into his death.

''Kashmir issue resolution would make Pak a more normal state''

Washington, Feb 26 (PTI) A resolution of the outstanding Kashmir issue would make Pakistan a "more normal state" and reduce its preoccupation with India, according to a former CIA officer who was one of the architects of President Barack Obama's Af-Pak policy in his first term.

SPORTS

Ind vs Aus: India crush Australia by 8 wickets in first Test to take 1-0 lead

CHENNAI: India clinched the first Test against Australia with a comfortable eight-wicket victory to take a 1-0 lead in the four-match series on Tuesday with their spinners taking all the 20 wickets for only the third time in their Test history. The Indians took about 25 minutes in the morning to finally bring an end to the stubborn last-wicket partnership between Moises Hendriques (81 not out) and Nathan Lyon (11) as Australia folded up for 241 in their second innings, leaving the hosts a small victory target of 50.The hosts lost both their openers Murali Vijay (6) and Virender Sehwag (19) before overhauling the target with more than two full sessions to spare.Cheteshwar Pujara brought about the winning run off Nathan Lyon to trigger off scenes of celebrations in the galleries and the Indian dressing room as the players congratulated and hugged each other.It was a commendable show by the Indians, who have been under pressure of late following a series of indifferent performances in recent times, as they dominated the game right through at the M A Chidambaram stadium where the conditions suited the home team. While captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni expectedly got the man-of-the-match award for his game-changing knock of 224, off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin scalped 12 wickets in the match to also play a stellar role.The margin of victory could have been bigger had the Indians managed to get rid of the last wicket pair on Day 4 itself and had they not lost both their openers despite chasing a small total.The two teams will now travel to Hyderabad for the second Test be played at the Rajiv Gandhi International stadium from March 2 to 6.This was the third time that Indian spinners managed to take all the 20 wickets in a match.The first time that Indian spinners bagged all the 20 wickets was at this same venue against England in 1972-73 while the second such instance was against New Zealand in Auckland in 1975-76.Resuming at the overnight score of 232/9, Australia could add just nine runs to their tally much to the relief of the Indians who had a frustrating time trying to dismiss the last-wicket pair.It took the Indians just nine overs on Day 5 to put an end to Australia's resistance when Ravindra Jadeja broke the agonisingly long last-wicket partnership between Henriques and Lyon.Lyon, who showed a lot of grit and temperament to hang on, was dismissed by left-arm spinner Jadeja, caught by Murali Vijay at short-leg.Henriques followed up his first innings half-century with another gutsy unbeaten 81 and together with Lyon added 66 runs for the final wicket to take the match into the fifth and final day and prevent India from recording an innings victory.Chasing the paltry 50-run target, India suffered two early blows in the form of openers Sehwag and Vijay, whose flop show with the bat continued.The opening duo of Sehwag and Vijay put on 16 runs before the former was the first one to depart.Vijay started his innings with a bang, smacking Lyon straight over his head for a six, his only scoring shot of the innings.But that was all the local boy could manage in the innings as he was caught by Henriques at mid-off off James Pattinson when he tried to go a big drive in the next over.Cheteshwar Pujara joined the action after Vijay's dismissal and had to go through some torrid time in the first few deliveries he faced from off-spinner Lyon.Pujara gave a half chance to the Australians which the visitors failed to pounce on. The ball hit the top of Pujara's pad and then the glove before crashing into wicket-keeper Mathew Wade's mid-riff as the batsman tried to pad Lyon away in the fourth over.But there was more drama in store as Sehwag (19) also returned to the pavilion, edging a Lyon delivery to Michael Clarke at first slip in the second delivery of the ninth over. Sehwag's dismissal marked the arrival of Sachin Tendulkar at the crease and the champion seemed in a hurry to finish off the chase as he clobbered Lyon for two consecutive sixes in the first two deliveries he faced in the innings.Tendulkar seemed to be fine touch as he timed the ball perfectly and provided some entertainment to the few thousand spectators who had come to the stadium to watch India's victory.Pujara and Tendulkar ensured that there were no further damage for India as they got the required runs in 11.3 overs.

We need to give more time to Sehwag: Dhoni

CHENNAI: Virender Sehwag's patchy form continued but skipper Mahendra Singh Dhonistill believes that the senior opener should be given more time to get back to form as he is a match-winner. Asked about the performance of Sehwag, who played in the Test wearing spectacles, Dhoni said, "I think we just need to give him more time. Well, that's how he bats. About Viru pa, I've said this plenty of times before, when he scores runs, he looks a fantastic player and when he doesn't, you can question the shot he played or the way he played.""He's someone who's always played with that sort of flair. At times, we get very critical about him. We all know he is someone who can change the course of the game, he's an attacking player. So let's go forward with that kind of an attitude," he said.Sehwag had scores of 2 and 19 in the first Test which concluded here today. He said Sehwag was unfortunate to get out in the first innings."This wicket, there was not much pace. First innings, he was unfortunate because he middle the ball, yet it came back and fell on the stump. In the second innings, there was not much pace for him to play freely," Dhoni said at the press-conference after India beat Australia by eight wickets in the first Test here.The Indian captain also made it clear that Murali Vijay, who scored 10 and six in the two innings, will continue at the opening slot."If you look at just the statistics of opening batsmen you may say that he (Vijay) is not good enough. But at the same time you need to give them a fair amount of time. Let's hope for the best. Vijay has played this game, let's continue with him and give him some time and the comfort of saying that he's wanted over here," Dhoni said. Asked if the team could go for four spinners in the Tests to follow, Dhoni said,"Four or five can be an option but you have to be sure that the wicket will turn. On the very first day, most of us assumed that it (Chepauk) would be a turning track, it would have plenty for the spinners. But we saw it was a decent wicket."Yes, there was a bit of turn on offer for the spinners, but overall it was quite a good wicket. That's why you want to be prepared for a situation like you think something may happen, but it actually goes the other way around."Also, Bhuvneshwar Kumar is someone who can add a bit. We all know the importance of batting deep because it really frustrates the opposition bowling. I think we went with the right combination."Three spinners itself is a lot. If you have an extra fourth spinner, then it becomes very difficult to answer why the fourth one bowled only a small number of overs. You can't make three or four spinners bowl the exactly same number of overs. You don't see the number of overs bowled by them and then make a bowling change. Who looks effective, according to that you make the change."On Ojha being left out for the first Test here, Dhoni said, "There are lots of questions. It's not always good to be predictable. As I said, you look at the batting line-up, there were lots of left-handers in their side."As I said, it's considered that the away-going spinners is quite difficult to face consistently. Also, the fact that the away going spinner, can keep it slightly tight so that you don't leak too many runs. So we had the perfect combination of two off-spinners and one left-armer."

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