THE DAILY  

VOICE OF SRINAGAR

SRINAGAR, THURSDAY, 09 RAJAB 1433 AH ; 31 MAY 2012

Email:-editorvosgr@gmail.com

Cabinet meets at Karnah

Orders establishment JKSRDC

SRINAGAR, MAY 30: The State Cabinet which met at Karnah under the Chairmanship of Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah today ordered following transfers and postings.

Mr. Bipul Pathak Commissioner/Secretary to Government Animal and Sheep Husbandry Department and Mr. Ashraf Bukhari Secretary to Government Science and Technology/ Information Technology Department will swap their places of postings.

Mr. Sudershan Sharma, Settlement Commissioner J&K has been transferred and posted as Registrar, Cooperative Societies J&K.

The Cabinet also approved the appointment of Prof. Nalini Kohli, Principal Government College for Women, Gandhi Nagar, Jammu as Director Colleges, J&K on officiating basis.

Upon the superannuation of Director General of Police, (DGP) Mr. Kuldeep Khoda on 31-05-2012, the Cabinet decided that Mr. K. Rajendara Kumar Additional Director General of Police Armed/Law and Order may hold the charge of Director General of Police (DGP) until such time as the successor to Mr. Kuldeep Khoda joins.

The Cabinet also approved the establishment of Jammu and Kashmir State Road Development Corporation (JKSRDC). The Corporation will act as a nodal agency of the State Government for executing major roads and allied surface infrastructure projects. The Corporation will be notified as “State Highway Authority”. Minister for Public Works (R&B) and Minister of State for Public Works (R&B) will be the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Corporation respectively. Administrative Secretary Public Works (R&B), Finance, Planning, Forest, Housing and Urban Development and Managing Director JKSRDC will be the Directors of the Corporation. Secretary Public Works (R&B) will initially function as MD, JKSRDC. Project Organization presently engaged with the construction of Mughal Road will initially discharge functions of JKSRDC.

The Cabinet also directed Power Development Department to frame a scheme for interest waiver as one time amnesty in respect of domestic consumers. 

Omar in Tangdar, chairs Cabinet meeting, reviews development, interacts with panchayat members, meets deputations

Takes government at door steps of people

Reaching out to people in all areas my endeavour: CM

Approves additional Rs. 2 cr for development of Karnah

            TANGDAR (KARNAH) MAY 30 – Under the innovative initiative to take the government to the door steps of the people, address their difficulties and focus on area specific development needs, Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Wednesday chaired the State Cabinet meeting at Tangdar (Karnah) the remotest area in Northern Kashmir situated near the Actual Line of Control.

            Omar Abdullah who arrived here yesterday reviewed the status of development of Karnah Tehsil at a high level officers meeting this morning. He met various deputations of the people, interacted with sarpanches and panches and also received scores of individuals who brought to his notice their personal problems.

            The Chief Minister received the sector wise appraisal of development schemes under implementation in Tangdar and Teetwal blocks constituting Karnah Tehsil, at the officers meeting. He granted additional Rs. one crore funds for the completion of school buildings damaged in 2005 earthquake. The Chief Minister also sanctioned another Rs. one crore for Sub-District Hospital Tangdar and fixed September 2012 end target date for its completion.

            The Chief Minister directed for constitution of a Committee to be headed by the Chief Secretary to finalize modus operandi for fast track filling up of vacancies in health and education sectors in Karnah Tehsil. He also directed the District Development Commissioner, Kupwara to immediately identify land for construction of staff quarters for the government employees serving in this remote area.

            Obtaining the work done status of R&B sector, the Chief Minister was apprised that 53 road schemes at a cost of over Rs. 36 crores are presently under execution in Karnah Tehsil. It was stated that 126 kilometers of roads have been constructed, upgraded and macadamized in the Tehsil last year and a comprehensive programme for road developments is being implemented to connect the remote and cut off areas.

            Omar Abdullah was told that six water supply schemes involving an expenditure of Rs. 4.71 crore are presently in various stages of execution. An amount of Rs. 3 crore has been spent on these schemes envisaging coverage of substantial population under the portable drinking water supply programme. It was stated that two water supply schemes have been completed recently.

            The Chief Minister was informed that as many as 221 schools are functioning in the Tehsil which includes 116 primary, 90 middle, 9 high and 4 higher secondary schools. It was stated that 6 primary schools have been upgraded to middle level last year.

            The Chief Minister was apprised that the Sub-District Hospital involving about Rs. 7 crores is under construction in Tangdar and Rs. 5.72 crores have been spent on it. The Chief Minister approved additional Rs. one crore for installation of central heating system in the hospital. It was stated that two Sub-Health Centre at Pendi and Jadi are under construction at a cost of over Rs. 18 lakhs.

            Omar Abdullah asked the officers to ensure time bound completion of schemes and stressed on them to ensure up to the mark public service delivery to the people. He said that reaching out to people in all areas has been underlined the benchmark of the functioning of the government. He told the officers to be at the beck and call of people on development front and show quick response to their needs.

            The Chief Minister also interacted with sarpanches and panches of Tehsil Karnah and apprised them of services transferred by government to these basic democratic units to empower them for undertaking various development works and formulating plans for the people in the areas they represent. He said a powerful and delivering Panchayat Raj system is his government’s commitment and measures have already been initiated in this direction.

            The MLA of the area Kafil-ul-Rehman was accompanying the Chief Minister who was given rousing welcome by a large number of locals on his arrival at Tangdar. The people raised slogans in his and in favour of his government.

            The Chief Minister also visited the house of A. R. Badana to condole the death of a member of Mr. Badana’s family. He stayed with the bereaved family, consoled its members and prayed for peace to the departed soul.

            Tehsil Karnah is remote area of Northern district of the Valley, Kupwara. It comprising of two blocks of Teetwal and Tangdar, inhabited by about 60000 population in 42 villages. There are 31 panchayats and the Tehsil has 62 kilometers of Line of Actual Control (LoC). 

Omar visits Teetwal, inspects works, meets people

‘Government carrying forward inclusive development with a commitment’

            TEETWAL (KARNAH) MAY 30 – Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah after reviewing the development scenario of Karnah Tehsil and chairing State Cabinet meeting at Tangdar drove straight to Teetwal village situated on Actual Line of Control. He met the people, inspected works and took stock of the 16 kilometers road stretch connecting Tangdar with Teetwal. He also got appraisal of the telecommunication and telephone facilities in the area.

            Minister for Finance, Abdul Rahim Rather was accompanying the Chief Minister.

            The Chief Minister during the interaction with the people enquired of the basic amenities being provided to them by the State Government in various sectors. He especially received the feedback of health, road communication, water supply and education sectors.

            Omar Abdullah said that he would take up the upgradation and improvement of road between Tangdar and Teetwal at the highest level with the Central Government. The road is presently under the supervision and execution of Border Roads Organization (BRO). He said that issues regarding improvement in the telecommunication and telephone facilities will also be taken up with the Central Government.

            Omar Abdullah directed for creation of facility centre at Teelwal crossing point. He also directed for resolving land issue relating to the establishment of Degree College Tangdar. He directed the District Development Commissioner to identify land for sports field in Karnah area.

            The Chief Minister met various deputations in Teetwal and Tangdar. These included a deputation from Gujjars led by A. R. Badana, a deputation from Keran led by Nasir Khan, a deputation of Auqaf Committee, a deputation of Sarpanches and Panches led by Sheikh Ghulam Hassan, a deputation of local Congress Committee, a deputation of transporters, a deputation of traders, a deputation of ousted employees, a deputation of Bar Association, Tangdar led by Javid Ahmad, a deputation of casual labours, etc.

            The Chief Minister gave patient hearing and said that the issues brought to his notice by these deputation would be given due consideration.

            Talking to people near LoC in Teetwal, Omar Abdullah listed the measures taken by the government during last over three years to ensure holistic development of all areas of the State. He said inclusive development with focused attention on remote areas has been underlined as an important concern in the development policy of the government. He said transfer of power and authority from secretariat to village level and involve people in decision making is his endeavour. He said that establishment of Panchayat Raj, enactment of Public Service Guarantee Act, Right to Information Act and other measures taken in this direction are showing visible results on ground.

Close down illegal brick kilns within 7 days: DM, Budgam

SRINAGAR MAY 30: The District development Commissioner, Budgam (District Magistrate) Mr. Khurshid Ahmad Shah has asked all the illegal and unlicensed brick kilns to close down their units within 7 days, failing which the District Level Task Force shall initiate immediate demolishing proceeding against such kilns with the cost of demolition to be borne by the defaulters.

In a public notices, the District Magistrate(DM), Budgam has said that the District Administration has come to know that certain brick kilns are being illegally run without proper permission/license and despite repeated warning, the owners have not shut down their units so far. Such brick kilns besides violating the provisions of J&K brick kiln regulation 2010 are posing a serious environment hazard to the District.

The District Magistrate has said that owners of illegal/unlicensed brick kilns are given a final opportunity to close down their units immediately.

Power supply to remain cut off in North Kashmir

            SRINAGAR, MAY 30: According to Chief Engineer, Electric Maintenance & R.E. Wing, Kashmir power supply to the North Kashmir shall be affected for few days to execute some urgent civil works in the Canal of Lower Jhelum Power House. The restoration works are likely to be completed within 4 days.

            The consumers of North Kashmir have been asked to bear with department.

Bandipora Board meeting on June 04

            BANDIPORA, MAY 30: According to Chief Planning Officer, Bandipora, the District Development Board meeting is being held under the Chairmanship of Minister for Consumer Affairs & Public Distribution and Transport and the Chairman of the Board on June 04, 2012 at Forest Training College, Chitternar Bandipora at 10 a.m. sharp.

            All the Sectoral and District Officers have been asked to be present on the scheduled date and time at the venue alongwith relevant papers viz physical and financial achievements 2011-12 and the Plan proposals for the year 2012-13.

Governor grieved over loss of life in Digdole road accident

         SRINAGAR, MAY 30 - Mr. N. N. Vohra, Governor, has expressed grief over the loss of precious human lives in a road accident which took place at Digdole on Jammu-Srinagar National Highway today.

          In a message, the Governor conveyed his sincere sympathy to the bereaved families and prayed for eternal peace to the departed souls of those who lost their lives in this tragic road accident.

Omar expresses grief over Digdole road accident

Condemns Khanyar firing incident

SRINAGAR, MAY 30: Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah has expressed deep grief over the loss of precious human lives in a road accident that took place on national highway near Digdole (Ramban).

The Chief Minister in a condolence message conveyed sympathy to the bereaved families.

Omar Abdullah also condemned the firing incident that took place today at Khanyar in which various security persons were injured.

Sham pays surprise visit to Baramulla

 Directs attachment of CMO, suspension of BMO, Pattan for poor performance

BARAMULLA, MAY 30: Taking cognizance of reports of unsatisfactory health services and poor facilities in the peripheral areas, Minister for Health, Mr. Sham Lal Sharma, today paid a surprise visit to various health institutions of Baramulla district. He directed on-the-spot attachment of Chief Medical Officer, Baramulla with the Directorate of Health Services, Kashmir and suspension of Block Medical Officer, Pattan with immediate effect.

During his visit to health institutions in the district today, the Minister viewed seriously the unsatisfactory health services and work culture which necessitated the action. He also imposed a fine of Rs. 2000/- on Dr. Shakeel Ahmed, presently posted at SDH, Pattan under NRHM for not wearing the apron while on duty.

Meanwhile, the Medical Superintendent, District Hospital, Baramulla has been asked to look after the work of CMO in addition to his own duties till further orders.

Interacting with the people at Pattan, the Minister said that Government has been spending huge funds for improving the health services across the State, but due to poor work culture and negligence of some employees, the people are not getting their dues. He issued stern warning to the doctors and para-medics to mend ways and deliver on ground as per the medical ethics; otherwise they will face the action warranted under rules.

He said Government has improved working conditions of the health institutions during the past over three years and it is expected that the employees would perform their duties with missionary zeal and dedication. The non-performing officials will be debarred from the promotional and other incentives, he added.

7 CRPF Personal injured in Rainawari shootout

Millitants come from rural areas to carry out attacks: IGP

Srinagar, May 30 (KNS): At lest 7 Central Reserve Police personnel were injured when unidentified gunmen opened fire on a CRPF contingent near Victor crossing Rainawari in Srinagar.

The CRPF party was traveling from Central Jail camp towards Khanyar, when unidentified militants fired indiscriminately on a vehicle of 82 batallion CRPF near the petrol pump at Rainawari around 7 am in the morning. The CRPF contingent was going for routine deployment when unidentified gunmen riding motorcycle opened fire as a result of which seven CRPF men were confirmed to have received injuries.

The injured were rushed to Shere Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences Soura, where the conditions of the injured is said to be stable.

Speaking to KNS, spokesman of CRPF Sudhir Kumar said that 7 policemen were injured in the accident adding that the condition of all the seven men was stable. “The injured have been shifted to SKIMS hospital and all of them are stable”, Kumar said. The injured jawans include head constable Omkar Singh, driver Anil Saksena, Constables Mona Ram, Vinod Yadav, Devender Singh, Dushant Yadav and Hosha Ram, all belonging to 82 batallion of CRPF.

Top police and security officials Wednesday visited the spot of firing and took stock of the situation emanating out of the firing incident. The visiting officers include IG Kashmir S M Sahai, DIG central Kashmir Iffadul Mujtaba, SSP Srinagar Ashiq Bukhari and SP north city Tahir Saleem.

While speaking to media persons, Inspector General of Police S M Sahai has said that militancy has receded in the valley to a large extent but it still exists. He also reiterated his statement that the militants who target the city come from rural areas to carry out such attacks. “Militancy has receded to a great extent but has not vanished”, Sahai said. ”Millitants who carry out these attacks are not from the city itself but come here to carry out attacks from the rural areas”, he added.

Meanwhile, in separate phone calls to KNS, two militant outfits have claimed responsibility for the attack conducted on CRPF at Rainawari. Claiming responsibility for the attacks Sheikh Jamshed spokesman of militant outfit Islamic Front said that militants from the outfit carried out the attack injuring 7 CRPF personnel.

Claiming to be a spokesperson of Ismamic Movement of Kashmir, Omar Mukhtar told KNS on phone that its militants carried out the attack at Rainawari. He also claimed that the outfit will keep carrying out such attacks in future.

Digdol accident claims 13 lives

SRINAGAR, MAY 30(KNS): At least 13 people are reported to have died when a Tata Sumo plunged into Ramsoo Nallah near Digdol in Ramban district on Wednesday afternoon.

A TATA Sumo bearing registration number JK014B/0689 which was on its way from Jammu to Srinagar, plunged into 800 feet deep Ramsoo Nalaha near Army camp, Digdol, Ramban, resulting on the spot death of 13 persons allegedly due to the rash and negligent driving by the driver.

Soon-after receiving the information about the accident, Anil Magotra, SP Ramban preceded for the spot along with Dy.SP Parbeet Singh Parihar and SHO Ramban Ravinder Singh Parihar, along with heavy contingent of Police personnel and started the rescue operation.

The rescue team succeeded in evacuating dead bodies of all the 13 persons which include 4 men, 6 women and 3 Children. All the passengers traveling in the vehicle were bound for Srinagar.

According to police sources, it has been reliably learnt that most of the accident victims are from Sunder Nagar, Hoshiarpur  in the neighboring state of  Punjab. The deceased persons have been identified as Mohan Lal S/o Khana Ram Age 45 yrs, Kaloo Devi W/o Mohan Lal Age 40 yrs, Ashu D/o Mohan Lal Age 17 yrs, Neetu D/o Mohan Lal Age 22 yrs Vijay S/o Mohan Lal Age 26 yrs, Mangu Ram S/o Khana Ram Age 40, Redoo Devi W/o Kheru Ram Age 45, Payal D/o Kheru Ram Age 17, Sapna D/o Kheru Ram Age 11 yrs, Navi S/o Bablu Age 3, Nandli D/o Vijay Kumar Age 01 year, Rekha W/o Vijay Kumar Age 24 years, Driver of the vehicle, identified as Mustafa Malik S/o Majeed Malik age 30 years R/o Srinagar.

All dead bodies of accident victims have been shifted to District Hospital Ramban and Police Ramban is waiting for the legal heir so that bodies of the victims can be handed over to legal heir after post-mortem. In this regard a case FIR No. 77/2012 u/s 279/304-A RPC has been registered at Police Station Ramban.

Manasbal missing tourist influx, locals blame official apathy

Srinagar, May 30 (KNS); At a time when all previous records of tourist inflow into the valley are set to be broken, the famous tourist resort of Mansbal is craving for tourists. Incidentally the tourist resort hardly finds any mention in the promotional programme of the Tourism department in the valley.

“Despite being very close to Srinagar city, we don’t find any tourists except a few traveling here."a tourist guide told KNS, adding that the beautiful lake resort was being ignored by the state establishment.

Local businessmen told KNS that at a time when tourists are being reportedly accommodated in civil facilities at Srinagar owing to huge rush, most of the huts and other accommodations in Mansbal remain unoccupied. "We blame tourism department for not promoting Mansbal as an attractive tourist destination. You can't expect tourists to come here of their own. Tourism department had the responsibility to give a wide publicity to this lake resort", a local restaurant owner told KNS. He alleged that the state tourism department had constructed a hut with eight rooms after spending crores of rupees, but only for ministers and bureaucrats. "You won't find any person having been posted there. Some local municipal daily wagers take care of it." he added.

Meanwhile some local visitors who had come for a picnic told KNS that the lone JKTDC Cafeteria at the resort was virtually shut when they had gone there to take lunch on Wednesday. “The cafeteria is so filthy that anybody can catch infection within minutes of stay there. I dont understand how are they can deal with the tourists", a teacher of a private school told KNS after refusing to take meals there.

Locals alleged that even the development authority has not been able to develop the resort the way they (locals) were expecting.

Meanwhile, the managing director JKTDC, Satish Nehru rubbished the allegations and said that he had himself visited Mansbal a couple of days back and found everything in order. "Some people don’t want to pay, hence make false complaints. They should have approached the general manager or even me if there was any inconvenience caused to them”, asserted Nehru.

AAC pays tributes to Asiya, Neelofer, discusses Haftae Shohda

Srinagar, May 30 (KNS): Jammu and Kashmir Awami Action Committee Wednesday convened at meeting at Mirwaiz Manzil here to discuss the Haftae Shohda programme and the ensuing government action and house arrests of Hurriyat leaders. The meeting paid tributes to Asiya and Neelofer of Shopian on their third anniversary.

“A an important meeting of Jammu Kashmir Awami Majlis-e-Amal was convened today by Party president and chairman All Party Hurriyat Conference, Mirwaiz Dr Umar Farooq. The meeting seriously discussed the Hafta Shouda Programme, government action to halt May 21 rally, house detentions of party chairman, and raids on Mirwaiz Manzil in an attempt to desecrate the historic building”, a press handout from the party read.

According to the handout, during the meeting, the participants including Mirwaiz Dr Umar Farooq paid glowing tributes to the two daughters of the nations- Asia and Neelofer- on their third martyrdom anniversary. Expressing solidarity with the family members of the duo, the gathering also discussed that how the government and its agencies shielded the criminals and hushed up the shameful act. They said the authorities failed to bring criminals to justice despite mass public protests. “It highly condemnable that authorities have so far failed to book the criminals involved in the double murder and rape case,” meeting declared.

The participants also expressed concern over the fact that some forces and Indian agencies had increased efforts to harm the freedom struggle.  As a result, the gathering stressed upon the people and leadership to show unity. It said it was the responsibility of the pro-freedom parties and people to get united make every possible effort to make ill plans against the freedom movement unsuccessful.
The meeting discussed that how, according to it, in the past the agencies and some forces were responsible for weakening the freedom struggle. It said they were the same forces and agencies who conspired to martyr the Shaheed-e-Millat, Mirwaiz Moulvi Mohammad Farooq (RA), Shaheed-e-Hurriyat, Khwaja Abdul Gani Lone, Shaheed-e-Masjid, Moulvi Mushtaq Ahamad and Sheikh Abdul Aziz.

The gathering warned that it was necessary that people and pro-freedom leadership should get united to make such nefarious plans of the forces unsuccessful. The meeting declared that freedom movement was passing through a certain delicate period and thus the unification of leadership was imperative to defeat any move which would harm the liberation struggle in anyway. The issues like making the party strong, stable and strengthen its grass root penetration also were discussed in the meeting. It was resolved that such steps would make the APHC programme successful and ultimately would help in paying significant role in the freedomstruggle of Jammu and Kashmir.

Guarantors liable to pay if debtors default: SC

Srinagar, May 30The guarantor of a loan is liable to pay it if the debtor fails to clear it, the Supreme Court has ruled, while maintaining that financial institutions too cannot act like property dealers in recovering the debts.
A bench of justices B S Chauhan and Dipak Misra also said the guarantor cannot insist that the creditor must first exhaust all remedies against the principal debtor before recovering the debts from the surety holders.
"There can be no dispute to the settled legal proposition that in view of the provisions of Section 128 of the Indian Contract Act, 1872, the liability of the guarantor / surety is co-extensive with that of the debtor.
"Therefore, the creditor has a right to obtain a decree against the surety and the principal debtor.
"The surety has no right to restrain execution of the decree against him until the creditor has exhausted his remedy against the principal debtor for the reason that it is the business of the surety/ guarantor to see whether the principal debtor has paid or not," said Justice Chauhan, writing the judgment for the bench.
The apex court gave the ruling on an appeal by one Ganga Kishun, who had stood as a guarantor to a bank loan, raised by one Ganga Prasad, who had died without clearing it. Ganga Kishun had come to the apex court against the Uttar Pradesh government's decision to recover the loan arrears from him after the death of principal debtor Ganga Prasad.

Zafar under house arrest

Srinagar, May 30 (KNS): Chairman Jammu and Kashmir Salvation Movement, Zafar Akbar Bhat has been under house arrest by the authorities to prevent him from visiting Shopian, Tuesday.

Zafar Akbar Bhatt in a statement issued in Srinagar has demanded an impartial international investigation into the killing of Asiya and Neelofar, who according to him, were abducted, molested and subsequently murdered by men in uniform in Shopian three years ago on May 29.

Bhat, paying rich tributes to Aasiya and Neelofar, deplored that the authorities were shielding the culprits. He said that the unparalleled sacrifices of Kashmiri people, which had centre-staged the Kashmir dispute at the global level, would not be allowed to go waste.

Meanwhile, JKSM spokesman in a statement strongly condemned the arrest of party activist Mohiuddin Dar under Public Safety Act who was arrested last week and shifted to Udhampur Jail.

 

Goldsmith stabbed in Chadoora 

Budgam, May 30(KNS): In a startling indication towards growing crime in central Kashmir’s Budgam district a goldsmith was Tuesday stabbed in an attempted of robbery in Chadoora.

According to police sources, four alleged robbers barged into a goldsmith shop owned by Manzorr Ahmad Bhat of Sanzipara Chadoora at Chattergam and tried to rob the shopkeeper. The goldsmith resisted and in the resulting brawl, he was stabbed by the robbers.

One of the robbers Abdul Rashid Ganie son of Mohammad Sultan resident of Wagoora Chadoora was arrested by the police with the help of the locals. However, other three of the robbers managed to flee from the spot who have been identified as Bilal Ahmad Wani son of Ghulam Ahmed resident of Checkpora, Kanihama, Nowgam, Mehraj Ahmad Ganie son of Abdul Gani resident of Parigam Pulwama and Mohammad Amin Wani resident of Kanipora Nowgam. Police is on a look out for them.

Meanwhile, the injured goldsmith has been shifted to SKIMS Soura for treatment. A case has been registered in this regard.    

PDP to start membership drive on June 6

Srinagar, May 30 (KNS): Jammu and Kashmir Peoples Democratic Party is starting a door to door membership drive from June 6 across the state of Jammu and Kashmir besides organizing the public meetings to spread its the political ideology.

In a statement the party spokesman said that the mass awareness campaign about party’ self rule agenda which was started in September 2009 will continue to educate the masses about various aspects of the proposal PDP. “In view the wishes and aspirations of all regions and sub-regions”, he said, “The self-rule formula promulgated by the party is the only realistic and practical solution to address the external and internal dimensions of the Kashmir disput”.

The Spokesman said that while the proposal has attracted national and international attention and intellectuals, cutting across the ideological differences, have realized that Self Rule proposal is the only solution of Kashmir issue, Peoples Democratic Party has decided to take forward the proposal to the masses through mass awareness camping and debates to be organized by the party.

Shabir Shah under house arrest

Srinagar, May 30(KNS): In order to prevent the senior Hurriyat Conference leader and Chairman Democratic Freedom Party Shabir Ahmad Shah continues to be under house arrest. In a press statement issued by the spokesperson of Democratic Freedom Party, the party condemned the continuous house arrest of the leader and called it a grave violation of democracy and human rights. The leader, according to a party handout, had intended to visit Shopian along with Salvation Movement Chairman Zafar Akbar Bhat to express grief to the family of Asiya and Neelofer on their third death anniversary.

PDP condemns attack on CRPF today

Srinagar, May 30 (KNS):               Strongly condemning the attack on CRPF today people’s Democratic Party said violence has never solved any problem neither would it do so in future. In a statement issued here today the party president Ms Mehbooba Mufti said the attack in the heart of the city in broad day light must be condemned by everybody as it has a potential of creating instability in the state. She said though it raises concerns of security but it could also vitiate the atmosphere so much as to have a bearing on the current tourist season. She expressed the hope that any such future attempts would be prevented. Mehbooba expressed solidarity with the CRPF officials who were injured in the attack and prayed for their early recovery.

Geelani's strike call evokes mixed response.

Srinagar, May 30 (KNS):               Normal life went out of gear on Wednesday following the strike call given by Hurriyat conference (G) Chairman SyedAli Shah Geelani in commemoration of double rape and murder case at shopian in 2009. Public transport remained mostly off the road and the attendence in offices and schools was thin. Business establishments in various parts of the city and other towns remained shut, however private and tourist vehicles were seen plying on the roads. Meanwhile shops and other business establishments were open as usually in tourist areas og Gulmarg, Tangmarg, Pahalgam and outskirts of Srinagar city.

Azeri government anti-Islam behavior not lasting: Velayati

A senior advisor to Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei says anti-Islamic measures taken by the government of Azerbaijan cannot continue for long.

“They may take certain steps right now, but based on the experiences of those who have ruled Muslim countries, Islam has deep roots in the hearts of the people,” Ali Akbar Velayati said Wednesday.

Referring to the Azeri government’s disrespect for Islam and religion, he added that the people of Iran and Azerbaijan share the same religion, history and culture and will never be separated from one another.

“Even under the communist rule in the former Soviet Union, the hearts of the people of both countries remained close,” Velayati said adding, “Any anti-religious measure in Azerbaijan is against the viewpoint of the majority of the Muslim people of Azerbaijan and has been imposed on them,” he said.

Velayati stated that Iran never interferes in any country’s internal affairs, but it is quite natural for Iranians to react when they hear the voice of the oppressed nation of Azerbaijan.

“We hope the government of Azerbaijan will try to remove the obstacles [that currently exist] between the two countries and to pay attention to its people’s demand for the development of relations between the [two] governments,” he said.

Relations between Tehran and Baku have been strained after Azerbaijan signed a USD1.5 billion deal with Israel to purchase drones and anti-aircraft and missile systems in late February.

Last month, Tehran summoned Azeri Ambassador Javanshir Akhundov to protest Baku’s arms agreement with the Israeli regime.

Earlier this month, Iran recalled its ambassador to Azerbaijan after 100 members of pro-Israeli groups, including the Southern Azerbaijan Independence Party, the International Diaspora Center, and the World Congress of Azerbaijanis gathered in front of the Iranian Embassy in Baku, shouting slogans against the Islamic Republic and insulting the Leader of the Islamic Revolution. 

Anti-Iran policies damaging the West: Marandi

Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Alexander Lukashevich has criticized the US sanctions against Iran as violating international law, noting that Russia opposes such measures.

Lukashevich spokesman said the US unilateral sanctions on Iran over its nuclear activities are against international law, accusing Washington of abusing its position in the global financial structure by imposing further sanctions on Iran.

He also lashed out at the White House for forcing other countries to engage themselves in its decisions. Lukashevich said sanctions should not affect Russian companies working with Iranian firms. The Russian official further noted that pressure and sanctions are futile and will only push Iran’s nuclear issue into a deadlock.

Tehran says its nuclear program is all peaceful and has no military objectives.

Press TV has conducted an interview with Mohammad Marandi, professor of University of Tehran, to further shed light on the issue.

What follows is an approximate transcript of the interview.

Press TV: Do the concurrent unilateral sanctions show that maybe the US is not committed to the so called "solution" that it is so vocally trying to find with regards to Iran's nuclear power issue? How can they keep implementing sanctions and still go to the negotiating table with expectations of "reciprocity"?

Marandi: That is an important point. The view more or less is that the United States is pushing forward in a way in which any agreement becomes more difficult.

Many believe that the real problem is that the US president is weak and that he has allowed Congress and the Senate to take the initiative and of course they are extraordinarily pro-Israeli.

But, at the end of the day, it will have very little effect on Iran. The sanctions are very comprehensive, both the American sanctions and the European sanctions. They have hurt Iran to a degree but the Iranians have quickly replaced Western companies with Asian, Russian, Latin American and African countries and of course internal Iranian companies.

But I think what is most important is that what the Americans are doing is that they are behaving in a very imperial manner and trying to force third parties and the same is true with the Europeans. They are trying to force the Indians, the Russians, the Chinese and others to obey by their demands and I think in the long run that hurts their own stature and their own position.

Press TV: What about the latest stance from Russia? They have told the US that more sanctions on Iran will not be without repercussions.

With the Moscow talks scheduled for a few weeks from now, will that statement play a more decisive role when the United States along with the other nations return to the table for talks?

Marandi: I think it is inevitable that this sort of behavior by the Americans and the Europeans will be detrimental to their own economies and to their own political stature because obviously countries like Russia do not accept the United States or the Europeans dictating terms to them, telling them how to behave and how not to behave.

The Iranians, on the other hand, have already found alternatives for trade; they are finding new ways for making bilateral agreements with different countries, using local currencies and in a sense, what it has done is that it has ironically helped the rivals of the United States and the Europeans because they have lost their trade and these countries have gained the Iranian market.

And, on the other hand, it is weakening American and European hegemony over international markets and finance. One other thing is that it is making countries like the Europeans that have placed an embargo on Iranian oil more dependent upon unstable regimes like Saudi Arabia which has a dying king and other such countries.

So, in a sense, they are putting themselves in a very dangerous situation but also important is the fact that countries like Russia are becoming increasingly angry at this imperial attitude of Western countries. 

Ten more Iranian prisoners executed in Saudi city of Dammam: Report

Saudi officials in the eastern city of Dammam have reportedly executed 10 more Iranian citizens following the earlier execution of eight Iranian sailors at the same prison in mid-April.

Quoting an Iranian prisoner, who is currently jailed in Dammam, the Persian-language Tabnak news website said on Tuesday that a total of 25 Iranians are kept at Dammam prison and some of them have been executed in two stages.

“They hanged eight [of us] in the first stage and 10 more were hanged in the second stage a few days ago. I and six more Iranians are still in this prison and very concerned about our situation,” the unnamed prisoner added.

The Iranian citizen said during the last court hearing, which was attended by a few members of the Iranian Embassy in the kingdom, the Saudi judge has acquitted them from all charges, but they are still kept in prison.

Slamming the Iranian Foreign Ministry for its inaction in this case, the prisoner said although they have been in jail for six years and Iranian Foreign Ministry officials know about the case, it seems that the Foreign Ministry has no plans to stop being an observer and do something.

On April 18, Press TV reported that Saudi officials had executed eight Iranian sailors in the city of Dammam without any legal proceedings.

According to the Saudi Al-Tagheer news channel, the executions were carried out on April 15 on the order of the Saudi Interior Ministry, which has been implicated in the unrest in Syria and the violence in Iraq as well.

On April 18, Iran's Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi dismissed reports about the execution of eight Iranian sailors in Dammam, saying the order has been temporarily suspended.

He said that in a telephone conversation with his Saudi counterpart, Saud al-Faisal, they discussed the issue and stressed the importance of exercising prudence.

The 25 Iranian sailors were arrested on a fishing boat in international waters 70 miles off the coast of Saudi Arabia six years ago and held on charges of drug possession. 

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THE DAILY

VOICE OF SRINAGAR

SRINAGAR, WENESDAY, 08 RAJAB 1433 AH ; 30 MAY 2012 

Email:-editorvosgr@gmail.com

NEWS

Says sense of security, economic safeguards to help return of KPs

            KHEER BHAWANI (GANDERBAL), MAY 29 – Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Tuesday underlined the sense of security and economic safeguards basic elements to help return of Kashmiri Pandits (KPs) to their native land. He said government is focusing on both these crucial aspects adding that the prevalent peace and improved security situation is proving a catalyst in this process.

            Omar Abdullah today visited Kheer Bhawani, interacted with the large number of KPs arrived here to participate in the religious ceremony of Zestha Ashtami being observed as Mela Kheer Bhawani. He exchanged wishes, enquired their welfare and extended greetings on the occasion. He also inspected various stalls installed by different government departments and others at the Mela.

            Talking to media on the sidelines, the Chief Minister said that the economic package in the shape of employment to the youth of the Kashmiri Pandits in the Valley is an important step to help return of these families. He said while peace and security atmosphere is gaining ground gradually and State Government has implemented half of the employment package for Kashmiri Pandits, the situation is becoming more and more palatable for their return.

            The Chief Minister said that the State Government is taking up the issue of enhancing financial support to Kashmiri Pandits to enable them construct their residential houses in the Valley. “A proposal will be discussed in the Cabinet in this regard and presented to the Government of India for release of funds”, he added.

            Omar Abdullah said that the State Government is ensuring all facilities to the large number of devotees mostly Kashmiri Pandits to observe Zestha Ashtami at Kheer Bhawani. He said the remarkably increase registered in the number of Kashmiri Pandits visiting Kheer Bhawani during last some years is encouraging phenomenon. “Government would continue to work to improve the facilities for the large number of devotees visiting Kheer Bhawani”, he added.

            The Chief Minister said that Kashmiri Pandits are integral part of the culture and ethos of Kashmir and Kashmiriyat. He said that their return to the Valley is the cherished goal and desire of the government and the civil society. He said the gradual improvement in the security situation and generation of economic avenues for this community would give required boost to the endeavours of the government to achieve this goal.

            A large number of KPs from all across the Valley, Jammu and various parts of the Country arrived at Kheer Bhawani to participate in the religious ceremony of Zestha Ashtami.

ay obeisance at Dargah, inspect works, interact with people

             CHARAR-I-SHARIEF, MAY 29 – Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah and Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy, Dr. Farooq Abdullah today inaugurated 18 Kw Solar Power Plant at  Sub-District Hospital Charar-i-Sharief. This is the second such solar power unit inaugurated by them in last two days. The one was inaugurated yesterday at Old Assembly Complex, Srinagar. The unit inaugurated at Charar-i-Sharief involves an expenditure of about Rs. 50 lakhs.

            The Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has approved 69 solar power plants for the State to be installed in as many health institutions as backup power supply units. This involves an amount of Rs. 32.70 crore. The tenders for 32 such units have been finalized and for the remaining the process is going on.

            During the last three years the MNRE headed by Dr. Farooq Abdullah has sanctioned over 50000 solar home systems for the 225 un-electrified villages and hamlets of the State. As many as 50 water mills have been upgraded while financial assistance to upgrade 2000 more such water mills for electricity generation and mechanical activities has also been approved.

            The Union Ministry has also sanctioned 58 micro hydel projects being installed in remote villages to generate electricity. It has also sanctioned and installed solar water heating systems at 10 locations while solar photovoltaic power plants at 69 locations to generate 1.09 MWs have also been approved.

            The Union Ministry has identified Bidda site in Reasi to set up a wind power project of the capacity of 10 MW. Solar power plants are also being set up at various religious and tourist places. The financial assistance approved by the Ministry amounts to Rs. 160 crores for the above said facilities while a major programme costing Rs. 437 crore has been launched to propagate large scale use of renewable energy in Ladakh region. MNRE has also sanctioned 15150 solar lanterns for 73 Gujjar Basties involving an amount of Rs. 5.30 crores.

            The Chief Minister and Union Minister for MNRE also paid obeisance at the Dargah of Sheikh-ul-Aalam, Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani (RA) at Charar-i-Sharief and prayed for peace and development of the State and well being of the people.

            They also inspected construction work of Khahkah and interacted with the people. They heard their views regarding various development schemes under implementation in the area patiently.

            Minister for Finance, Abdul Rahim Rather, Minister for Science and Technology, Aga Syed Ruhulla were accompanying the Chief Minister and the Union Minister for MNRE.

High court dismissed petition filled by Nazira Begum against the State & Others

SRINAGAR, MAY 29: Hon’ble High Court of Jammu and Kashmir at Jammu today dismissed the petition filed by petitioners namely Nazira Bagum and Shahina Begum against the State of Jammu and Kashmir and others.

The judgment delivered by Hon’ble Justice Hasnain Masoodi was announced in the open court at Jammu by the Hon’ble Acting Chief Justice.

The petitioners had filled (OWP) No. 1258 of 2011 in Srinagar wing of Jammu and Kashmir High Court which was subsequently transferred to Jammu wing. The petitioners were seeking reopening of case FIR NO: 7/96 P.S.  Bhaderwah, trial which had been conducted and concluded with the acquittal of accused in November 1999. The petitioners had also prayed for conducting fresh investigation by the CBI so that real accused could be identified as according to them neither the investigation nor the trial of the case was conducted in fair and impartial manner.

The Hon’ble High Court while dismissing the petition observed that the local police had registered the case and conducted the investigation with utmost promptitude. All the important and key witnesses were examined and as such no faults can be found with the investigation. The Hon’ble High court further held that trial was also conducted in a proper manner and as such the same cannot be labeled as mock trial. It was further held that the petitioners have failed to take recourse to the efficacious alternative remedies available to them under CRPC and have even failed to assail the judgment of acquittal recorded by trial court on 8.11.1999 in appropriate proceeding before the High Court.

With these observation, the Hon’ble High Court did not find any merit in the petitions and accordingly dismissed it.     

Valley has huge potential of Adventure Tourism: Mir    

 Inaugurates first of its Kind Menus Adventurous equipment outlet in India at Chindilora

          CHANDILORA(TANGMARG), MAY 29: Minister for Agriculture, Mr. Ghulam Hassan Mir, today said that Adventure Tourism in Kashmir Valley has a huge potential and every step are being taken by the government to tap this potential in a big way for boosting blooming  tourism industry in J&K.

The Minister said this while inaugurating the first of its Kind Menus Adventurous Equipment outlet in India at Chindilora, Tangmarg this afternoon.

 Principal Indian Institute of Skiing & Mountaineering Gulmarg, Colonel J.S Dhillon was also present on the occasion.

The Minister said boosting of Adventure Tourism in valley is the need of the hour as it infuses a momentum in our economy.  “ with    flourishing  of Adventure  business  in J&K particularly in Valley, there is a large scope of opening of  Adventure  equipment outlet  on rental services  or sale near the world class tourist resorts of Gulmarg, Pahalgam , Sonmarg to facilitate foreign and domestic   tourists”, he said. He said “till date the domestic and foreign tourist procure these equipments from abroad but now they can get it on rented basis as well as buy it near the world famous tourist resort Gulmarg.

 Saying that slopes of Gulmarg are famous across the globe, Mr Mir said this rental service facility would encourage the local talent of valley in adventurous tourism and helps us their hidden potential in Mountaineering Climbing, Heli Skiing, campaigning and water sports and rescue. He said valley is full with natural adventure spots and asked the youth to go for it with zeal and dedication to make J&K at the top of Adventurous tourism sport. 

 Asking for opening of such more outlets near tourist resorts of the state, the Minister said by opening of Adventure business out let has paved the means and ways of creating employment for many of our local youth.

During the inauguration, the Minister and colonel Dhillon  were informed , the outlet has  high end equipments for high altitudes, Winter war fare equipments, Mountain war fare equipments along with survival and medical equipments and  other necessary equipments for Adventurous tourism sport.

Principal Indian Institute of Skiing & Mountaineering Gulmarg, Colonel J.S Dhillon said on this occasion that it is a good beginning and hoped that more youths would come forward to open such outlets to harness the potential of local youth in adventurous tourism sport. He said our institute is working in this direction to provide training to the students of various institutes in Skiing, climbing, mountaineering and water sports.

Farooq address first meeting of DLVMC

Urges for lunching vigorous awareness campaign under NRHM

SRINAGAR, MAY 29:   The Union Minister for New And Renewable Energy Dr. Farooq Abdulla, Tuesday, called upon the legislatures and health officers of Srinagar district to initiate vigorous awareness campaign and disseminate information among people especially in rural areas about the programs and policies of National rural health mission so that people could get proper benefit from the centrally sponsored mission. He said awareness is the most important tool to achieve success   in the implementation of such programs.

The union Minister was addressing the first ever meeting of district level vigilance and monitoring committee of National Rural Health Mission (NRHM), held at SKICC, today.

The Minister for rural development and parliamentary affairs Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar, Advisor to Chief Minister, Mr. Mubarak Gul, Minister of State for Home and Urban Development Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani, Chairperson women’s Commission Mrs. Shamim Firdous, MLA Hazratbal, Dr. Mustafa Kamaal, MLA Batamaloo, Mr Irfan Shah, MLA Sonwar, Mr Mohammad Yaseen Shah, MLA Zadibal Peer Afaq and member VMC Shiekh Gh Ahmad Saloora were present in the meeting.

Addressing the meeting the union minster stressed upon the officers to work with missionary zeal in providing health care facilities to the common people. He urged them to keep coordination with local MLA’s while formulating plans under different programs of NRHM. He also stressed for conducting of quarterly review meetings to ascertain the peace of progress and directed for holding such review meeting in September this year.

Dr. Farooq Abdulla applauded concerned officers for holding such meeting and said that this will lead us to formulate new plans to make the NRHM a success.

Earlier the district development Commissioner Srinagar, Mr. Baseer Khan gave a detailed report of aims and objectives of NRHM through a power point presentation.

On the occasion the meeting was informed that the NRHM is the platform to provide affordable, equitable and accessible health services, especially residing in rural areas.

The meeting reviewed the peace of progress achieved under different schemes of the mission and was informed that Rs 80 Lakh have been paid to the pregnant women during last 3 years under Janani Surakhsha yojna (JSY) while as Rs 34.15 Lac have been paid to ASHA Workers as incentive during the same period.

The meeting was also informed that free investigation was made to 1174 pregnant women, free medicine provided to 942 pregnant women and new born children during last year in Srinagar District under Janani Shushu Surakhsha Kariykram (JSSK).

The concerned MLA’s present in the meeting project their demands aiming at improvement of health services in their areas.

Among other CMO Srinagar and District program management unit of NRHM Srinagar participated in the meeting.

J&K power scenario discussed in high level meeting

Joint inspection of all ongoing power projects by June 30

SRINAGAR, MAY 29: Union Additional Secretary of Ministry of Power Mr. Davinder Choudhary convened a high level meeting of officers of NHPC, JKPDC and civil administration of the State here today to discuss execution of Hydro Electric Projects(HEP) planned for execution during 12^th plan and  taken up by various agencies in Jammu and Kashmir.

Principal Secretary Power Development Department Mr. Sudanshu Panday, Managing Director JKPDC Mr. Basharat Ahmad Dhar, Secretary  in Power Development Department, Secretary Technical Education, Chief Engineer PDD and Senior Officers of NHPC, JKPDC attended the meeting.

            The meeting was informed that the State has estimated potential of 20000 MW electricity out of which 16471 MW has been identified for harnessing during the 12^th plan. It was also given out in the meeting that 27 Hydro and Mini Power Projects should be constructed during the plan out of which 21 projects should be under State Sector, 4 projects under Central Sector and 2 projects under private sector.

            The meeting was informed that the State government has notified the “J&K Hydroelectric Projects Development Policy -2011” for 2100 MW under which 10 projects has already been advertised.

The meeting took review of construction work of all the ongoing mega projects include Baghliar-II, Sawlakote, Kishehnganga, New Ganderbal,  Kirthai and Retli and it was decided that joint inspection of all the project sites should be conducted by a team by the end of  June 30 this year.

The meeting discussed in detail  for laying of 220 KV transmission line from Srinagar to Leh  at an estimated cost of Rs 1629 crore for which Detailed Project Report (DPR) have already been prepared. In view of closure of Srinagar-Kargil-Leh National Highway due to heavy snowfall, 8 km line should be laid underground on vital places, the meeting was told.

The meeting was informed that 2928 people are working in various power projects in Jammu and Kashmir out of which 1900 belongs to Jammu and Kashmir State.

The  Union  Additional Secretary of Ministry of Power stressed upon the officers for initiating necessary measures to train the local youth in the Industrial Training Institutes (IT’s) of the State in various trades of electricity so that after getting training these people can be absorbed in various projects. He said that for the training of these youth central government will provide funds adding that this will pave way for the state government to overcome on the burning issue of unemployment also.

The meeting was informed that for this purpose NHPC have adopted 5 Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) of Reasi, Ramban, Uri, Kargil and Leh while as 5 ITI’s of Basohli, Kalakote, Dharmadi, Balesa and Kangan have been adopted by Jammu and Kashmir State Power Development Corporation (JKSPDC). It was also given out in the meeting that NHPC is setting up Hydro Institute of Joint Management of NHPC and JKSPDC at Kangan for which 27 kanal of land has already been identified.

Efforts underway to bring old city on tourist map: Sagar

Inaugurates Rs. 2.15cr dewatering station at Khanyar

SRINAGAR, MAY 29: Asserting that the Government is committed to ensure all-round sustainable development of old city Srinagar, the Minister for Rural Development, Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar has said that the Government has envisaged an Rs. 150 crore project for the development of the historic Maharaj Ganj, Zainakadal and its catchment areas.

The Minister was addressing people after inaugurating a dewatering station constructed with an estimated cost of Rs.2.15 crore at Khanyar, Srinagar.

Chief Engineer, Superintending Engineer UEED and other senior officers of various Departments was present on the occasion.

Referring to the various initiatives undertaken by the government for the development of the old city, the Minister said that several projects have been taking by the government which includes the Naagar-nagar project, Khanyar Zakura Projects and Syed Meerakh Shah Road projects which would go a long way in ensuring better traffic mobility and de congestion. Besides, various   other initiatives are being undertaken to bring the historical city the tourist map. “Special packages would be given to the people of the area who would like to construct guesthouses and undertake other related tourist activities. In this regard a comprehensive policy has been formulated by the government”, he added.

“We have always projected the cause of the people of the State irrespective of the consequences and given innumerable sacrifices as we believe in sustained action rather than resorting to devise politics and rhetoric”, he asserted.

 While welcoming the recent statements given by a Separatist party whereby they had raised issues of public concern and expressed their desire to contest in the upcoming municipal election, the Minister said that it is positive step and speaks volume about the initiatives under taken by the government for ushering peace and ensuring good governance to people. “The Government has recently introduced the public services Guarantee and Right to Information Act whereby an ordinary citizen can get the requisite information with the stipulated time frame and ensure participation in day to day governance” , he maintained.

The dewatering station at Khanyar with a catchment area of 60 hectares (0.60 sq Kms) would cater to the areas of Baba Demb Khanyar, Aquilmir Khanyar, Kolipora, Kaw Mohalla, Dastigar Shahib area, Pirwari, Aram Masjid, Khawaja Bazar, Nowhatta, Naid Kadal, Shamaswari, Kalashpora.

Career Counseling on May 31 at FOA, Wadura

            SRINAGAR, MAY 29: According to Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, Wadura, Divisional Forest Officer, Langate Handwara, Mr. Irfan Ali Shah is conducting career counseling for the students at the Faculty of Agriculture (FOA), Wadura Sopore on May 31, 2012 at 11 a.m.

            All desirous students are advised to attend the career counseling.

Himalayan Heli Services Pvt. Ltd.- New Helicopter Service provider from Baltal 

                SRINAGAR, MAY 29 - M/s Himalayan Heli Services Pvt. Ltd. has been awarded the contract for providing helicopter service to the Shri Amarnathji pilgrims on Baltal-Panjtarni route in place of M/s Global Vectra Helicorp. Ltd. 

            Giving details, the Chief Executive Officer, Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board, Mr. Navin K. Choudhary disclosed that originally M/s Summit Aviation Pvt. Ltd. and M/s Global Vectra Helicorp. Ltd. were awarded the contract for operating helicopter services on Baltal-Panjtarni route while M/s Pawan Hans was awarded contract for operating helicopter service on Pahalgam-Panjtarni route. However, due to operational difficulties and reported withdrawal of security clearance by DGCA, M/s Global Vectra Helicorp. Ltd. expressed its inability to operate the helicopter service for the forthcoming Shri Amarnathji Yatra. Accordingly, the next lowest bidder i.e. M/s Himalayan Heli Services Pvt. Ltd. was offered and they have agreed to operate helicopter service on the same terms and conditions. The one way fare for Baltal-Panjtarni route will continue to be the same i.e. Rs. 1445/- as being charged by the other Operator M/s Summit Aviation Pvt. Ltd. 

          The CEO also disclosed that on-line booking on the website of M/s Himalayan Heli Services Pvt. Ltd. will commence on 31^st May, 2012 at 9.00 A.M. The on-line booking by M/s Summit Aviation Pvt. Ltd. and M/s Pawan Hans had already commenced on 7th May, 2012 as originally announced.

Omar to chair cabinet meeting at Tangdhar

SRINAGAR, MAY 29: Chief Minister, Mr. Omar Abdullah has always expressed the desire for equitable development of far flung and remote areas and upliftment of the people living there. To realise this cherished dream, the Chief Minister today traveled by road from Srinagar to Tangdhar covering a distance 180 kms.

The Chief Minister had indicated to hold the cabinet meeting at Tanghdar about a year back, however due to inclement weather conditions the cabinet meeting scheduled to be held at Tangdhar did not materialise.

The idea of holding cabinet meetings at Tangdhar and other far flung areas is to give focused attention to these places and ensure speedy redressal of the grievances of the people living there.

            The Chief Minister will preside over the district level officers meeting in the morning to review developmental activities of the area. Later, he will preside the cabinet meeting. The cabinet meeting at Tangdhar is a historical event as never before has a cabinet meeting been held at such a far flung place. 

Info employees condole demise of wife of Nanak Chand

           SRINAGAR, MAY 29: A condolence meeting under the Chairmanship of Director Information, Mr. Zaffar Ahmad Bhat was held here today to condole the sad  demise of wife of Mr. Nanak Chand, Senior employee of Information Department.

           The meeting expressed sympathies with the bereaved family and prayed for the eternal peace to the departed soul and endurance to the bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss.

           The condolence meetings was also held at Joint Directorate of Information Kashmir and Jammu to pay homage to the departed soul. The employees expressed their sympathies with the bereaved family. 

Mufti advocates strong mechanism to curb menace of corruption 

Omar led regime weakening anti-corruption bodies: Baig

Srinagar, May 29 (VOS): Reiterating the resolve of his party to establish a transparent and accountable system to provide good governance to the people of the State, Peoples Democratic Party Patron Mufti Mohammad Sayeed Tuesday said that during the PDP led regime sincere efforts were made to keep a check on corruption and to bring transparency in the governance.

Addressing a conference organized on the role of NGOs in eradicating corruption,  Mufti reminded the gathering that it was during the regime of PDP that State Accountability Commission (SAC) was constituted and autonomous status was given to this anti-graft body. He, however, reiterated his demand that the SAC must be equipped with independent investigating agency to ensure impartial investigation in all corruption cases. “Without equipping SAC with an independent investigating agency, it is not possible to conduct impartial inquiry into the corruption complaints lodged with the Commission”, he maintained.

Emphasizing on the need of bring transparency in the governance, the PDP patron regretted that even after 63 years of Independence, no mechanism has been evolved to make politicians accountable. “I don’t know what is the reason for not forming a mechanism to check political corruption ?”, he asked and added that lack of accountability and lack of transparency in the governance was the main reason of recent scam involving crores and crores of rupees. He especially mentioned towards 2G and Common Wealth Games (CWG) scams, which had generated debate all over the country on the issue of corruption.

“The menace of corruption has eroded our system and common masses are not getting justice due to corruption, nepotism and favoritism”, he said and added that there needs to be a consensus at national level on the formation of Lokpal. “Government as well as leader of opposition should involved consensus in the formation of Lokpal because corruption is one of the biggest problem in the country”, he said and emphasized that there should be an independent investigating agency to investigate corruption cases. “Furthermore jurisdiction of Lokpal should not be confined only to politicians and officers from top to bottom level should also be brought under its purview”, he said and supported the demand that Prime Minister and Chief Minister should also be under the purview of Lokpal.

Speaking on the occasion, former Deputy Chief Minister Muzaffar Hussain Baig, criticized the Omar Abdullah regime for what he calls ‘patronizing corruption in the state’. He mentioned that SAC has issued notices to ministers of the coalition government but no action has been taken. “Instead of facilitating the SAC to investigate charges of corruption against ministers, the government has deputed its own advocates to get the investigation process stayed”, he said and observed that such action of the government authenticated that those at the helm of affairs were themselves patronizing the corruption and were themselves weakening the anti-graft bodies like SAC. He said that during the last three years corruption has crossed all limits. He mentioned towards report of Transparency International, in which rampant corruption in Jammu and Kashmir was highlighted.

PDP responsible for mass exodus of KPs : NC

Srinagar,29 May (VOS):  Reiterating that the state is incomplete without the Pandit community the National conference today on the eve of Mela Khir Bhawani appealed the minority community to return to their home land.

In a statement the party spokesman, Tanvir Sadiq, said that Kashmir in particularly and state in general cannot be complete both politically and socially without Kashmiri pandits. He said that both Muslims and Pandits living together personifies ‘Kashmiriyat’

“This is our Kashmiriyat, which has been famous worldwide and we want the Pandits to return back home so that we again weave the bonding and live in harmony” said Tanvir

“Series of measures by Omar Sahib for repatriation of Kashmiri Pundits is on including creation of 3,000 additional posts, but they should feel assured and confident about their return. The Spokesman said that the party is committed to create a political and social environment in the Valley to encourage the Kashmiri Pandits to return and settle back in their own homes, with dignity” said Tanvir

Lashing out at the PDP the spokesman said that they are responsible for the forced migration of Kashmiri Pandits from Kashmir Valley to Jammu and other parts of the country which has created a big void in the composite communal fabric of our state and only PDP is to be blamed for that.

The spokesman said that the recent statement of PDP president against the DGP who reportedly has been nominated as the new CVC is lame and hurt the sentiments of a particular community. Terming her as the mouth piece of saffron parties the spokesman said that she has been selected by the RSS and BJP to head the PDP.

Mirwaiz supports APDP programme

Srinagar, May 29 (VOS): The All Parties Hurriyat Conference has paid tributes to the two daughters of the Nation, Asia and Neelofer on their third martyrdom anniversary falling on May 29.      

“APHC believes that double murder and rape case is still a blot on the justice system. The party said the way Kashmiris, especially the people of Shopian, protested against the incident would serve as an example for the years to come”, a press statement issued by the conglomerate said.     

Expressing concern, the spokesperson said that according to him following a well planned conspiracy, the government hushed up the case and shielded the criminals who were involved in committing the crime.

On the other hand, APHC Chairman, Mirwaiz Dr Umar Farooq has supported the APDP programme to observe the International Week of the Disappeared for 27th May to June 2.

Mirwaiz has appealed people and clerics of the valley to express solidarity with the families of people, who were subjected to enforced disappearances, by offering special congregational prayers on the coming Friday on June 1. He said the clerics and people should raise a voice against enforced disappearances and offer prayers and blessings for them.

Kashmiris waiting for return of Pandit brothers: Malik

Shah, Bhat, Mir also visit Tulmulla

Jammu, May 29 (VOS): Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front Chairman Mohammad Yasin Malik has said that all Kashmiris are waiting for return of Pandit borther and continue to remain hopeful of their return.

Malik Tuesday visited Tulmulla in Ganderbal in order to welcome the Pandit devotees apart from expressing his good wishes to the Pandit devotees.

“You (pandits) are an integral part of our social fabric and our society is incomplete without you”, Malik told the devotees while interacting with them. “We may have different religious faiths but that does not mean that we cannot coexist”, Malik added.

Appealing pandits to return to their homes, Malik said that Kashmiri muslims are tolerant and would never hurt the non muslim minorities. “Our prophet has made it obligatory for us to take care of non-mulim minorities and we will always uphold the ethos of protecting pandit brothers”, Malik said.

Expressing his desire for returning the lost glory of Kashmir, Yasin appealed the pandit brother to return to their homes as every Kashmiri is waiting for them. “We want to bring the lost glory back to Kashmir. Inshallah we will surely succeed in our goal.”, Malik hoped.

Meanwhile, Democratic Freedom Party President Shabir Ahmad Shah and Salvation Movement President Zafar Akbar Bhat, Liberation Front leader Javed Ahmad Mir also visited Tulmulla to interact with and welcome the padit devotees. They appealed the pandit brother to return to their homes as according to them Kashmiri society is incomplete without them. (VOS)

Senior Workers, Activists from Chattabal join PC

According to a peoples conference press release, Aijaz Ahmad Shah, PDP Halqa President from Chattabal along with other senior workers from Chattabal called on PC Chairman, Sajad Lone at the party head office and expressed a desire to be a part of PC’s vision of Change. Sajad Lone interacted with the new entrants and encouraged them to take the party’s dream to every doorstep and leave no stone unturned to selflessly serve the people.

Welcoming Aijaz Ahmad Shah and other workers from Chattabal to Peoples’ Conference, PC Srinagar District President Junaid Azim Mattu reiterated the party’s mission to cleanse Srinagar of malfeasance, misgovernance and corruption and to usher the city into a corrective phase of equitable prosperity and growth. Hajira Ji, PDP’ Ladies Wing President from Chattabal also joined PC on this occasion along with the entire Chattabal Ladies Wing of the party.

Welcoming all new entrants into Peoples’ Conference, Junaid Mattu asked the workers to strengthen the party at the grassroots level and be ready to serve the people as and where the people of Srinagar face day-to-day problems. Mattu added that PC aimed at creating a paradigm shift in the polity of the State and has a dream of giving Srinagar the focus and developmental attention that a city of such historical and cultural stature deserves.

Present government a ‘danda sarkar’: Nayeem

Srinagar,29 May (VOS):  Terming the Government as danda sarkar senior resistance Leader and National Front Chairman Nayeem Ahmad Khan has said the incumbent government has adopted a policy to crush everyone showing dissent.

“The so called government has adopted a policy to curb and crush everybody and it can simply be called a DANDA SARKAR. May it be the protest of Laborers in Tangmarg , the protest of Government Employees or the peaceful and political  activities of pro-freedom leadership, administration is using the same DANDA against everybody””, Khan said.

Nayeem Ahmad Khan also said that, according to him, due to the policy of oppression, common masses are feeling suffocated. “The day is not far when people will throw away the restrictions and lead a revolution which will stop only when their land is freed from oppression and slavery”, Khan said.

Remembering all the Martyrs of Kashmir  Nayeem Ahmad Khan said that we are the custodians of their precious sacrifices and we will keep the torch of resistance lighting till the goal of freedom is achieved. He also remembered all the people undergoing detention and said that these people are writing the history of Kashmir resistance in Jails and their patience is worth praising. 

Nayeem specially remembered the Shopian Tragedy and paid tributes to Aasia and Neelofer. Khan condemned the heavy deployment of men in uniform in Shopian on the eve of third anniversary of the tragedy.

01 dies, two injured in road mishaps

Srinagar, May 29 (VOS): One person died and two others were injured Tuesday in different road accidents across the valley.

A Tata Sumo bearing registration number JK04B/2082 hit and injured nine year old Soni Jan daughter of Abdul Samad Ganie resident of Agrikalan, Magam. The injured girl was shifted to SKIMS Soura where she succumbed to her injuries.

Meanwhile, a Maruti Car bearing registration number JK03B/3809 hit and injured eleven year old, Nadeema daughter of Ghulam Nabi Bhat near Zalangam, Anantnag,. The injured girl was shifted to Hospital for treatment.

In another accident, a Tata Sumo bearing registration number JK03/8767 hit and injured, 65 years old Ghulam Mohammad Palla resident of K.P.road Mattan, Anantnag. 

Jamaat condemns arrest of youth
Srinagar, 29 May (VOS):  Jamat e Islami Kashmir has criticized the UP government for arresting two Kashmiri students studying in the Jamiat-ul-Falah, Azamgarh on May 24 without informing the educational institution and their parents.

Pertinently, Sajad Ahmad Bhat and Wasim Ahmad Bhat of Tarzoo Sopore were arrested by the  Anti-Terrorism Squad of the UP Police on May 24.

“This is a clear violation of the guidelines laid down by the Supreme Court of India and the fundamental rights guaranteed under the Indian Constitution to every person residing in India”, Jamat spokesperson Adv Zahid Ali said in a press statement released here.

He alleged that the role of Police in India vis-à-vis Kashmiris is totally hostile and they harass, tease and intimidate any Kashmiri they confront with, without verifying the veracity of the complaints as is done usually.

“No Kashmiri Muslim can move freely in India as he is looked upon with suspicious eyes and apprehends trouble at any time. This attitude cannot be curbed unless stringent action is taken against the erring police officials by the govt. and the courts”, Zahid added.

“Jamaat-e-Islami J&K denounces strongly the U.P. ATS action and demands an immediate and unconditional release of the duo Kashmiri students. Jamaat further demands an end to the harassment of Kashmiri Muslims outside J&K”, the statement read.

M S Dhoni arriving in valley

Srinagar, May 29 (VOS): In an attempt to promote Sports in the Valley, army is contemplating to invite the captain of the Indian cricket team Mahinder Singh Dhoni on the occasion of the qualifying finale of the KPL tournament to be played at Baramulla on Sunday. Sources revealed to VOS that M S Dhoni has been approached by the army and he was likely to arrive here to watch the final match of the qualifying round at Shoukat Memorail College in Baramulla on Sunday. “We have been told that MS may be coming on Sunday, for which arrangements are being done", the source added.

Presence of the high profile cricketer is seen to not only promote the game but also would help in promoting the KPL at the national level.

However, a senior officer in the district administration told VOS that army was still to get confirmation from the Star Cricketer.  "They are still waiting for MS's Confirmation, but yes they are trying to get him here", asserted the Officer.

Kashmir premier league was launched by Army in collaboration with state government last year in order to promote cricket and help budding cricketers get noticed by the national selectors apart from the IPL franchisees.

The qualifying round of the tournament is being played in all districts of the valley, wherefrom 2 top teams will make it to the premier league which gets underway from June 5. 

At least 33 teams from different areas of Baramulla district are participating in the qualifying event which has now reached Semi Final level. The final match is scheduled on Sunday, June 3.

Meanwhile a senior army Officer Tuesday evening told VOS that Dhoni has accepted invitation and he will be coming on June 3. “Yes his arrival is now confirmed. He will be in Bramulla at the Finals", asserted the Officer.

Pak national held at LoC

Jammu May 29 (VOS): The army in a statement issued here late Tuesday evening has claimed to have arrested a Pakistani national at the line of control dividing two Kashmirs. “One individual of age approx 28-32 years, who claims to be Syed Asif Ali Shah  s/o Syed Wajid Ali Shah r/o Multan in Pakistan, was apprehended by  Army troops deployed on LC in general area Chakla in district Jammu at around 9.30 pm on 28 May 12”, said the army spokesperson in the statement.

However, no arms, explosives have been recovered from the individual.  The individual, according to army spokesperson, is being handed over to Police for further investigation.

Russia: US anti-Iran sanctions against international law

Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Alexander Lukashevich has criticized the US sanctions against Iran as violating international law, noting that Russia opposes such measures.

“Regarding the US unilateral sanctions against Iran, which have been enforced during the past 20 years over concerns about Tehran’s nuclear energy program, I should say that does not agree with the transnational nature of these sanctions,” Lukashevich said on Tuesday.

“Moreover, we believe that these sanctions are in contradiction to international law,” he added.

On May 21, the US Senate unanimously approved a bill to extend sanctions against countries or companies that have dealings with the National Iranian Oil Company and the National Iranian Tanker Company, another attempt to restrict Iran from selling its crude oil abroad.

“The United States is abusing its position in the global financial structure and the status of dollar as the international currency, thus slapping economic and financial sanctions against Iran and forcing other countries to engage themselves in this regard,” the Russian foreign ministry spokesman pointed out.

Lukashevich further noted that Moscow has invariably expressed opposition to “excessive pressure” on Iran over its nuclear energy program.

“On all occasions and levels, we have proclaimed our opposition to [applying] excessive pressure on Iran and pointed out that such an approach will push Iran's nuclear energy program toward a stalemate,” Lukashevich explained.

The United States and the European Union have imposed tough financial sanctions as well as oil embargoes against Iran since the beginning of 2012, claiming that the country's nuclear energy program includes a military component.

Tehran refutes such allegations, noting that frequent inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency have never found any diversion in Iran's nuclear energy program toward military purposes. 

P5+1 must recognize Iran's peaceful nuclear activities: Mehmanparast

ran's Foreign Ministry spokesman says the P5+1 - the US, Britain, France, China, Russia, plus Germany - must recognize Tehran's peaceful nuclear program in the forthcoming talks as the country will not budge from its position.

Speaking to the reporters in his weekly briefing on Tuesday, Ramin Mehmanparast emphasized that Iran is entitled to any nuclear activity which is considered peaceful.

“It is quite clear what level of uranium enrichment is peaceful and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) officials are also aware of this,” he said.

The Iranian official stated that positive steps have been taken with regard to Iran's nuclear program and if the P5+1 drop its illogical demands, it would be a step forward.

“[Both sides] should follow the path of constructive talks to get their views close in Moscow [negotiations] or in subsequent talks and pave the way for further cooperation,” he added.

Mehmanparast stated that the member states of the P5+1 should not enter Moscow negotiations with wrong ideas.

“The Islamic Republic of Iran has been under pressure and sanctions since the onset of the Islamic Revolution, but it has tried to use these sanctions as an opportunity and promote its indigenous knowledge,” he said.

Iran and the P5+1 restarted multifaceted talks, which focused on Tehran's nuclear energy program, in Istanbul on April 14, 2012, after a 15-month hiatus.

Tehran and the P5+1 had already held two rounds of talks, first in Geneva in December 2010, and then in Istanbul in January 2011.

The second round of new talks between the two sides opened in Iraq’s capital, Baghdad, on May 23, after which the negotiators agreed to continue the next round of talks in Russia’s capital, Moscow, on June 18-19.

The US and the EU accuse Iran of diversion toward military goals in its nuclear energy program and have imposed international and unilateral sanctions on Tehran using such claims as pretext.

Tehran says as a committed member of IAEA and a signatory to Non-Proliferation Treaty, it is entitled to all peaceful uses of nuclear energy. 

Israel builds up shadow war against Iran's nuclear program: Report

Israel has for long been engaged in acts of terrorism and sabotage against Iran to halt Tehran’s breakthroughs in nuclear energy technology, a German broadcaster reports.

In a video report titled “Shadow War,” broadcast by the German TV network ZDF, Christian Sievers, the reporter, portrayed an array of anti-Iran plots, hatched by Israel, that “have been running for years - unnoticed by the general public.”

The report also features the remarks made by high ranking Israeli officials who underscore the need for a military strike against Iran's nuclear facilities.

The documentary, on the other hand, interviewed two former directors of the Israeli intelligence service, Mossad, who had warned against the upshots of any military action against Tehran, describing the ramifications of such adventurism as catastrophic.

Meanwhile, former Mossad director Efraim Halevy pointed to a “shadow war,” which incorporates a series of assassinations and sabotage plans, as an alternative for a preemptive military strike and a means to eliminate the key figures in Iran's nuclear energy program.

The video referred to the assassination of four Iranian nuclear scientists over the past two years as some examples of Mossad’s secret scenario.

In the latest series of attacks, Mostafa Ahmadi Roshan was assassinated in January after an unknown motorcyclist attached a magnet bomb to his car near Allameh Tabatabaei University in Tehran.

On November 29, 2010, Professor Majid Shahriari and Dr. Fereydoun Abbasi were targeted by terrorist attacks; Shahriari was killed immediately and Dr. Abbasi, the current head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization, only sustained injuries.

In November 2011, some of the US presidential hopefuls called for conducting covert operations ranging from assassinating Iranian nuclear scientists to launching a military strike on Iran as well as sabotaging Tehran's nuclear program. 

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