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Karachi: Killing fields

EID MUBARAK

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Tribune South Asia

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Year 1  Issue 6  Thursday, 25.08.11

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Benazir Bhutto assassination case: Anti-terrorism court to indict seven offenders

n anti-terrorism court is likely to formally indict seven accused men in the Benazir Bhutto assassination case on August 27, the next date of hearing. The court will formally initiate the trial of Hasnain Gul, Rafaqat Hussain, Abdul Rasheed, Aitzaz Shah, Sher Zaman affiliated with Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, former city police officer Rawalpindi Saud Aziz, and former SP Khurram Shahzad for their

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What Now for Libya? C

olonel Gaddafi has addressed his nation to say the battle with “aggressors” will last “until the end”. Meanwhile, the rebels’ assault on the Tripoli compound brought no visible results and shelling goes on in Libyan towns. Muammar Gaddafi said leaving his compound was a tactical move. Colonel has addressed the nation via Libyan radio, declaring that “in the fight against aggressors there is only death or victory.” He said that the Bab al-Aziziya compound no longer exists. It was totally

destroyed by 64 NATO air strikes. As of now, the leader and his family are nowhere to be found. “I have been out a bit in Tripoli discreetly, without being seen by people, and... I did not feel that Tripoli was in danger,” he said. Gaddafi spokesperson, Moussa Ibrahim, speaking on Libyan television from an undisclosed location, warned the battle for Libya will turn the country into a volcano, lava and fire. He stressed that the country’s government can resist the attacks for

Story Continued on page 10

months or even years. “Libya will become a volcano,” he promised. He condemned the rebels and claimed that 12,000 tribesmen were converging on Tripoli to fight. Ted Rall, an American columnist and author says Libya is likely to be plunged into a long-running civil war. “It’s a striking replay of 2003, with the US invasion of Iraq, when the United States toppled a dictator who had effectively stifled his opposition, and [they] didn’t know what they would be replacing him with,”

South Asia Tribune I Thursday 25 August 2011

NEWS

EDL attacked and threatened mosques

he racist nature of the English Defense League (EDL) surfaces during a court hearing when one of its members ranted “we’ll burn your mosques” with another admitting to desecrating a mosque. EDL leaders claim that they are not hate preachers against Islam as a faith, that they are opposed to racism and that their group is a “multi-ethnic, multi-religious movement”. EDL spokesman Trevor Kelway for one has insisted the ‘league’ is not a racist group and that he himself has replaced the former EDL spokesman because that individual is lamophobic.

However, Islamophobia has proved to be an indispensable part of the EDL chanting and their members’ activities with the latest on the group involving two such cases. Calderdale Magistrates’ Court has heard that a 40-year-old EDL supporter, Andrew Ossit, broke out into an anti-Islamic ranting in Halifax town center as 60 other cosupporters chanted other slogans. Ossitt admitted before the court that he used threatening words to cause harassment, alarm and distress while also acknowledging that he was involved with religiously aggravated harassment. His lawyer confirmed that

Ossitt chanted “you burn the poppies, and we will burn the mosques”, but complained that “he has been singled out from that demonstration” and that “there should be 60 or so EDL stood next to him” before the court. Ossitt’s case is a telling example of the lenient treatment of EDL supporters by British officials as the court let him get away with a £100 fine along with £85 costs and a £15 victim surcharge. The prosecution was surprisingly keen to point out that the big charge was to “reflect” the fact that Ossitt committed an act of “religious aggravation.” This comes as another EDL

UK silent on Israel’s brutal attacks

member has admitted she was part of a group which led a spray paint attack on a mosque.

The 19-year-old Charlotte Davies told the Durham Crown court that she admitted to conspiracy

Winson Green triple murder: 33-yearold man becomes eighth arrested

ritish Foreign Office Minister Alistair Burt has remained silent regarding the Israeli regime’s brutality as he condemned the incident that took place in Eilat. While the Israeli regime’s airstrikes on the Palestinians in poverty-stricken Gaza has killed at least 12 people, Burt deplored the attacks on Israeli buses and remained silent with regard to Israel’s brutal attacks against innocent Palestinians in Gaza. “As efforts for peace in the region continue, this brutality has no place,

nor its perpetrators any excuse. My thoughts and prayers are with those killed and injured and I offer sincere condolences to their families and friends,” said Burt. Last Thursday, gunmen armed with heavy weapons, guns and explosives opened fire on a bus carrying Israeli soldiers while a rocket was fired at another bus near the Red Sea resort of Eilat. The Israeli Defense Minister, Ehud Barak, tried to link the attacks to the Gaza Strip accusing resistance groups

affiliated with Hamas of launching the assaults in Eilat as Tel Aviv vowed a “full force” response against the innocent Palestinians in Gaza. Nevertheless, the democratically elected government of the Palestinian resistance movement, Hamas, in Gaza categorically denied the accusations. Responding to the Israeli regime’s threats, a senior Hamas member, Salah al-Bardawil, asserted that the Palestinian people are not afraid of “Zionist threats” and respond to any act of aggression by Israel.

to commit the graffiti attack on the Nasir Mosque in Hartlepool in November that the prosecution said constitutes racially aggravated criminal damage. She did not formally plead guilty and will wait until October for a ruling. Muslims have repeatedly called on the government to ban the group as a racist movement, warning officials of the threat EDL poses to Muslim communities and holy places. During the unrest that rippled across Britain earlier this month, the Islamic Human Rights Council (IHRC) warned that far-right groups, especially the EDL, seek to use the situation to burn down mosques and stage a race war. The London-based campaign group, which is a consultative partner of the UN Economic and Social Council, said EDL and other far-right groups are rallying support for such moves through messages on Facebook and Twitter. IHRC chairman Massoud Shadjareh said they are especially worried because the edl threat is apparently being taken lightly. “We are deeply concerned that the threat of far-right violence in these days is not being taken seriously,” he said.

33-year-old man is being questioned by police after he was arrested over the murders of three Pakistani Muslim men who were killed as they tried to protect homes and shops from looters. Haroon Jahan, 21, and brothers Shazad Ali, 30, and Abdul Musavir, 31, were hit by a car in the early hours of August 10 during riots in the Winson Green area of Birmingham. They were pronounced dead later in hospital.

The man was arrested on suspicion of murder by detectives at his home in Smethwick on Friday. He was the eighth man to be arrested in connection with the deaths. Four men - Ian Beckford, 30, Joshua Donald, 26, Adam King, 23, and a 17-year-old who cannot be named - have already been charged. Three other males - aged 17, 23, and 32 - have been arrested and bailed pending further inquiries.

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South Asia Tribune I Thursday 25 August 2011

NEWS Terror charges against Manchester’s Muslim couple

Hindu Festival Celebrates Birth Of Krishna

MARRIED couple appeared at the Old Bailey yesterday accused of making preparations for terrorism. Mohammed Sajid Khan, 32, and hairdresser Shasta Khan, 37, of Foster Street, Oldham, Greater Manchester, appeared by videolinks from separate prisons. Mr Justice Calvert-Smith turned down a bail application by Mrs Khan and remanded the pair in custody to face trial in Manchester at a later date on charges of engaging in conduct in preparation for terrorism by researching improvised explosive devices on the internet, and purchasing household items which could be used to make them. Publisher Salah Bu Khamas (UAE) Sabha Khan (UK) UK Office 10 Courtenay Road, Wembley, Middlesex, HA9 7ND UK Phone: +44 20 8904 0617 Fax: +44 20 8181 7575 info@satribune.co.uk India Office Satya Infomedia Pvt. Ltd. C/O Satya Group. 1st Floor, Avenue Appt., Near Sheth. R. J. J. High School, Tithal Road, Valsad - 396001 Gujarat, India Phone +91 2632 222209 / 222211 Fax: +91 2632 222212 Post Box No. 98 /108 United Arab Emirates Office S.K. Group of Companies P.O. Box 9021, Karama Dubai, United Arab Emirates Tel: +971 4 2659970, 3359929; Fax: +971 4 2659971, 3341609 www.sk-groupofcompanies.com

p to 72,000 people were expected to attend what organisers said was the largest Hindu festival outside India. The two-day Janmashtami Festival celebrates the birthday of Krishna, and was held at Bhaktivedanta Manor, Watford. The site was donated to the Hare Krishna movement by

former Beatle George Harrison in 1973. Cows and bulls, considered sacred in the Hindu faith, have been painted in memory of Krishna, who Hindus believe was the guardian of the animals. The festival at Bhaktivedanta Manor is organised by 1,500 volunteers and attracts many people of other faiths.

It includes dancing, music and drama, as well as free vegetarian food. One of the leading figures in world Hinduism, His Holiness Swami Radhanath, who is at the festival, said he hoped it would promote religious understanding and tolerance. Srutidharma Das, president of the manor, said celebrations of

faith were important. “There is an imbalance in society,” he said. “These festivals reiterate people’s values and make them into better people. “We can integrate but still have our culture. “We have to follow the laws of the land, but following our culture will enhance the fact that we are part of Britain.”

to send a last rejoinder to the GHQ and DHA authorities for details of former president Pervez Musharraf’s property, who is cited as a proclaimed offender in the case. The court will formally attach Musharraf’s movable and immovable assets and issue perpetual warrants for his arrest. The FIA has accused Hasnain and Rafaqat with providing residence

and transport to the suicide bomber, Rasheed Ahmed for being a part of the conspiracy and Aitzaz Shah, a minor and Sher Zaman for concealing the murder plot. Saud Aziz is accused of destroying vital evidence after the terror attack by hosing down the crime scene and not allowing Bhutto’s postmortem. SP Khurram is also accused of destroying evidence

at the crime scene. Musharraf is accused of threatening Bhutto with dire consequences if she returned to Pakistan and of trying to influence the post murder investigation by arranging a premature press conference. The court has already declared former TTP chief Baitullah Mehsud and six other activists as proclaimed

Managing Editor & CEO Mohammad Shahid Khan Group Editorial Managers Gulzar Khan (India) Abdul Khalique (Pakistan) Editorial Board UK Nayab Chohan (Editor in Chief) Frances Brunner FYI Tribune team Adrian Fellar Misbah Khan Reema Shah Rohma Khan Keziah-Ann Abakah Art Department UK Ali Ansar (Art Director) Md. Reazul Islam

<< Continued from page 1 alleged role in the murder of the former premier outside the historic Liaquatabad Bagh on December 27, 2007. The court directed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) reinvestigating the case in the light of the UN commission inquiry report

South Asia Tribune I Thursday 25 August 2011

COMMENT

EDITORIAL

Revolution Lesson from UK riots : What goes around comes around what one Israeli publication questioning the double standards. UK. The report said: “The (UK) of unfairness, especially those in Libya Indescribed as a turning of the “Had this happened in South Foreign and Commonwealth without higher education, a job or

The rebels in Libya had not yet taken power in Tripoli at the time of writing, but it seems that the end for Colonel Muammar Gaddafi is in sight. In power for 42 years, he has long resisted outside powers, but the latest challenge to his regime came from a popular uprising, which began in February and seems to have succeeded. The uprising saw the USA, under the guise of NATO, back the rebels by a bombing campaign that did not just echo the Balkan campaign, but also the previous attempt by the USA to assassinate Colonel Gaddafi, and which resulted in the murder of his adopted daughter. However, with the nabbing of one of his sons, Saif ElIslam, and the penetration of capital Tripoli, it seems that the regime’s resistance will ultimately come to an and. As Tunisia to Libya’s West and Egypt to its East fell as a result of the Arab Spring which inspired the antiGaddafi rebels, his survival in power was always dubious. In the midst of this, the American and NATO triumphalism, shown in the congratulations received by US President Barack Obama and British Prime Minister David Cameron, show how much the conflict was about oil, and how much because the main US ally, and accomplice in its invasions of the Muslim world, Europe, depended upon oil from Libya, with its oil companies using its light, sweet nature to earn fat profits, because it was easy to refine. The US and NATO intervention was meant to help Europe retain its stranglehold on Libya’s oil. It did not take into consideration that Libya funded many African projects. For many Muslims Colonel Gaddafi is an anti-US champion, and his fall will merely strengthen antiAmerican feeling, as people realise that his ouster was not just because of any oppression he committed on his people, but because of the way he was disliked in the West. At the same time, as an oil-rich Arab state, Libya attracted many Indian and Pakistani expatriate workers, and their safety should be the concern of our government.

tables, riot-hit UK last week found itself at the receiving end of both travel alerts and travel warnings, as well as some finger-wagging lectures from its former colonial outposts. The riots came on the day England and India faced off in the third cricket Test in Edgbaston. Indian media quoted former Indian cricket captain Sunil Gavaskar as saying that England’s cricketers would have “hit the panic button” and talked of leaving the series midway if the UK riots had happened in India. Mr Gavaskar said such a situation in India would have evoked reactions of wanting to leave by English cricketers. “No question about it, they would have been pressing the panic button. They would have been talking in terms of the team returning home. That is a given,” Mr Gavaskar said. The Indian media recalled that an England team, under former captain Kevin Pietersen, in fact did leave a tour of India midway after the Mumbai attacks in 2008 but came back to complete the series after a while. On Aug 13, CNN also ran a long piece pointing out the “double standards” in the UK reaction to the riots. Headlined, “What if UK riots were happening in Africa?” the Johannesburg-datelined story said, “Many South Africans have been smug watching the images of lawlessness, anarchy and violence on London’s streets.” It added: “In the years leading up to the 2010 (World Cup football) tournament (in South Africa), the British tabloid press in particular irritated many South Africans with constant assessments of how “unsafe” South Africa is. Proud locals felt that many English football fans were dissuaded from attending the World Cup because of the fear campaign generated by the British media. “Now that the South African government has issued a travel warning to citizens travelling to the United Kingdom some have been

Africa _ a year before the World Cup _ many suggest that the world’s media would have been pressuring the football governing body, FIFA, to move the tournament someplace safer. FIFA would often hint at a Plan B location, such as ‘safe’ Australia, if South Africa became too dangerous or unpleasant to host

Office frequently issues guidance to travellers planning on going to Israel, but this week the tables turned. “As images of rioting and looting were transmitted on television screens around the world, the Israeli Foreign Ministry stopped short of issuing a serious travel

money, finally turned into anger, and a single spark ignited the whole woodpile. “The riots have also exposed the failure by successive government to ensure social justice across all parts of society. To contain further troubles, the country will have to do more. In particular, every

the World Cup.” The report added: “Now that the Olympic Games are to take place in a year’s time in London, some Africans are asking why more people aren’t debating whether England can pull off the world’s oldest sports tournament.” In Malaysia, the Foreign Ministry advised its citizens intending to

warning. But the MFA did warn tourists: ‘Be alert, avoid gatherings of groups of youths and areas of unrest, and obey police and other local authorities.”’ An Aug 12 commentary in the official Chinese newspaper China Daily also asked: “London rioting ignited by what?” It said: “The riots offer food for thought not just for

effort must be made to ensure the 2012 London Olympics are staged peacefully.” Another Aug 11 commentary in China Daily by Han Dongping, history and political science professor at Warren Wilson College, was headlined: “What goes around comes around.” It said: “It seems odd that the British government would label their own people as thugs and gangsters when they used no guns during the riots, and yet they label the rebels in Libya, Egypt, and Yemen as freedom fighters, despite their widespread use of guns and other dangerous weapons.” In the TV scenes, one showed a black man haranguing London Mayor Boris Johnson about why Britain was spending so much money fighting wars in Libya, Iraq and Afghanistan when that money could be better spent to improve services and facilities at home. Mr Johnson had no answer.

The riots offer food for thought not just for the UK but also for other developed countries. visit Britain to inform the High Commission of their travel plans, and provided a list of contact details. One student sustained a jaw injury after being attacked by rioters. In Jerusalem, the Jewish Chronicle reported that Israel has issued a travel advisory to any citizens planning a trip to the

the UK but also for other developed countries. They were the outburst and explosion of a society that has been suffering in silence and which had reached the tipping point. “Britain’s economic woes and the axing of social benefits are an underlying cause of the riots. Young people’s frustrations and a sense

Big police presence for the Notting Hill N

otting Hill carnival will see the highest number of police officers on duty in the event’s 47-year history in the wake of the London riots, police sources have said. Double the number of off-icers that policed the Royal Wedding will be on duty at the carnival next weekend, with the Met planning 20,000 shifts split over the two-day

event, it is understood. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s April wedding day saw 5,000 Metropolitan Police officers on duty in London.Carnival organisers said about 500 stewards will be on duty, some 100 more than last year, to ensure there is no repeat of the violence seen during the London riots.

Christopher Boothman, one of the organisers of the carnival, said he expected the extra police would be added to reserves that would be on alert at fixed locations around the carnival to respond to any trouble.”There are normally significant numbers of police at Notting Hill on the off chance that something might happen,” he said.

Mr Boothman, a member of the Metropolitan Police Authority, said he hoped policing at the carnival would “not be oppressive” and that “there is a balance they (the police] need to get right” He said organisers would close the carnival “in a staggered fashion” until about 7pm each day, so that people would leave gradually.

South Asia Tribune I Thursday 25 August 2011

Al-Quds Day demonstration in London

undreds of British nationals, including Muslims, civil and anti-war activists, and anti-Zionist Jews have taken part in the annual Al-Quds Day demonstration in London. The demonstrators gathered at Portland Place, outside BBC Radio theatre, to protest against the Israeli occupation of Palestine. Afterwards, demonstrators marched through central London to Trafalgar Square where they listened to speeches addressing the Palestinian issue. Demonstrators carried Palestinian and Hezbollah flags and various anti-Zionist placards reading “Zionism is racism”, “freedom for Palestine”, “end occupation”, “end the killing”, “end the Israeli Apartheid”, “stop funding genocide”, “right vs. might”, “63 years of occupation must end”, “silence is complicity” and “boycott Israel”. Moreover, the Pro-Palestinian demonstrators chanted: “we are all

Hezbollah”, “end the occupation now”, “Zionism terrorism”, “we are all Palestinians”. Al-Quds Day demonstrations are usually held on Saturday or Sunday in Britain because Frida y is not the official weekend holiday in Britain. Chairman of the Islamic Human Rights Commission in London,

Masoud Shajareh, who organizes Al-Quds Day demonstrations in London, said that Al-Quds Day is the international day of protesting against oppression. Shajareh stated that Al-Quds Day is an appropriate opportunity for all human rights and proPalestinian activists to protest against the brutality of the Israeli

regime calling for an end to 63 years of occupation which has inflicted irreparable damage upon the Palestinian nation. Furthermore, he said that organizing these demonstrations in Britain during the past decades has raised public awareness with regard to the realities of the Palestinian issue.

Shajareh asserted that numerous organizations and institutes have expressed their support for the Al-Quds demonstration this year including anti-war and civil organizations, and anti-Zionist Jews. Stop the War Coalition, the Muslim Council of Britain, the Palestine Solidarity Campaign, anti-Zionist Jews, the Islamic Society of Britain, Friends of Al Aqsa, the Palestinian Return Centre, and Islamic Assembly of Ahl-e Beit supported the Al-Quds Day demonstration in London. Meanwhile, there was a small counter demonstration by the members of the anti-Islam group, English Defence League, who were angry at being disallowed to display their St. Georges cross flags. Sunday was celebrated as ‘alQuds’ (Jerusalem) day in London. The featured speaker was Tony Blair’s Muslim convert sister-inlaw, Lauren Booth, who called on Jordan, Egypt and Lebanon to ‘liberate’ Jerusalem.

South Asia Tribune I Thursday 25 August 2011

COMMENT The Qur’an,Crime and the Economy This is the ﬁrst of four Ramadan Special essays published by Jama Masjid, San Fernando, and written by Islamic scholars Imran N. Hosein and Siddiq A. Nasir, that turn to the blessed Qur’an in an attempt to respond to rampant crime. Rallies, marches, changing Ministers of Government and Police Commissioners, etc., can never be a substitute for knowledge. The next three essays would focus on: ‘Crime and the Philosophy of Punishment’, ‘Crime and the Secular Society’ and ‘Crime and the Family’. Economic ghettos now spawn, to a very large extent, the present endless nightmare of gang and drug warfare, armed robbery, kidnapping, and wanton senseless murder. Those ghettos will dramatically increase when the US dollar collapses totally and the TT dollar faithfully follows its monetary Massa in that collapse. Inflation will increase dramatically, and so too will crime! Is it possible to replace the old corrupt politics of tribal patronage, the corrupt monetary system, as well as the corrupt system of moneylending on interest that has enriched some tribes while impoverishing others and creating ghettos? Our view is that constitutional reform should be primarily directed to the search for a plural model of a state appropriate for a multi-tribal plural society. Only such a ‘power-sharing’ model of state can now prevent the emergence of tribal economic and political dictatorship, and restore a tribal fraternity based on economic and political justice, tribal equality and a free and fair market. Only thus can we hope to extricate the ghetto from economic oppression and the resultant ever-increasing crime. Islam recognizes justice to be the fundamental and indispensable moral value on which stable societies are built. It also exposes oppression (including economic oppression) as a destroyer of social stability. “O you who have faith (in the One God)! Be ever steadfast in upholding (the standard of) equity (and this includes equal opportunity in a free and fair market), bearing witness to the Truth for the sake of Allah (Most High), even though it be against your own selves (i.e., perceived to be against your own interest) or your parents and kinsfolk (and this includes your tribe). Whether those concerned be rich or poor, Allah’s claim takes precedence over the claims of either of them. Do not, then, follow your own agenda (and this includes your party or tribal agenda), lest you swerve from justice: for if you distort the truth, behold, Allah is indeed aware of

all that you do!” (Qur’an, al-Nisa, 4:135). (Explanatory comments in brackets)

From a corrupted economy - to the ghetto to endless crime When the market-place of jobs, of allocation of resources, and of buying and selling is corrupted,

Shiekh Imran Hossein

Tribune Comment and when money itself, which is used to buy and to sell, is neither free nor fair, then opportunity presents itself for the elite in such a society to exploit those too weak or ignorant to protect themselves. That sick economy eventually creates ghettos, and the entire people pay a terrible price when such a society itself begins to unravel and collapse. Eventually the law of the jungle rules the ghetto, and the ghetto then expands to embrace the rest of the society with violent crime. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) warned of such a time when “Harj would fall on your rooftops like rain”. When asked “what was Harj”, he replied: “(random senseless wanton) killing and slaughter to such an extent that the one who was killed would not know why he was killed, and the one who was killing would not know why he was killing and every day would be worse than the day which preceded it.” A man who could not read or write, and who never traveled outside of his native Arabia other than two business trips to Damascus, prophesied as such from the desert of Arabia more than 1400 years ago. Only a true Prophet of the One God could have prophesied so long ago that society would one day collapse to become the world in which we now live.

From the politics of patronage to crime The politics of patronage, in which governments favor some over others, corrupts and destroys both the ‘free’ as well as the ‘fair’ market. In addition, those who benefit from state-sponsored patronage eventually become so internally corrupted that they believe they

have a right to rob, kidnap and even murder in order to eat bread without having to sweat for it. The Qur’an has responded to declare that “. . . man is entitled to nothing except that for which he labored” (Qur’an, al-Najm, 53:39). This writer worked in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of this country for some years and had direct experience of tribal patronage in employment, job promotion, diplomatic posting, etc., in that Ministry. The same was largely true of the rest of the Public Service, Police Service, Armed Forces, Central Bank, etc. Justice Vollney recently removed the cover of a garbage-bin to expose the stench in other places as well. This essay argues that the politics of tribal patronage breeds crime!

From a bogus and fraudulent monetary system to crime Governments print utterly bogus and fraudulent non-redeemable paper-money and then impose it as legal tender in the market. In so doing they create wealth out

required to submit to the authority of an International Monetary Fund which has mysteriously banned the use of gold as money (Art. 4 Section 2-b of the Articles of Agreement). And so, although ruthless despicable enemies have mercilessly attacked the Zimbabwe dollar, and although that country is a major producer of gold, yet it cannot introduce gold coins in the market to solve the problem of runaway inflation since such a natural solution is unjustly prohibited by the slave-master’s socalled international law.

From lending money on interest to crime The Qur’an, like the Bible before it, has prohibited the lending of money on interest: “O you who have attained to faith, fear Allah and give up all the Riba (i.e., interest on loans) which is outstanding if you are truly believers; and if you do not do so, then take notice of a declaration of war from Allah and His Messenger” (Qur’an, al-Baqarah, 2:279). ‘Lending money on interest’ is

Prophet Muhammad has cursed all four, and has declared that they are all equally guilty: “the one who takes interest, the one who pays interest, the one who records the transaction, and the two witnesses to the transaction. of nothing. They will one day face severe divine punishment for such blasphemy. When such money loses value, it results in inflation which can be described as ‘legalized theft’. As prices constantly increase, the value of wages for example decrease, and people are robbed of the just value of their labor, goods and property. The Qur’an has specifically prohibited such ‘legalized theft’: “ . . . do not deprive people of what is rightfully theirs by diminishing the value of their things (such as their labor, merchandise, property etc).” (Qur’an, al-’Araf, 7:85; Hud, 11:85; al-Shu’ara, 26:183) The falling value of money (that was created out of nothing) destroys the free and fair market as it results in a massive and unjust transfer of wealth. The masses are ripped off and their ‘loss’ becomes the ‘gain’ of a predatory elite. It eventually breeds rampant crime. The wickedness is compounded when governments around the world are

not a business transaction since the money-lender is largely immunized from suffering loss. As a consequence, when modern banking (and this includes credit unions) embraces an economy, wealth no longer circulates through such an economy. The rich remain permanently rich and grow constantly richer. The poor, on the other hand, suffer the oppression of permanent poverty while they grow constantly poorer. The Qur’an has established rules that ensure that:

“. . . wealth does not circulate only between the wealthy amongst you” (Qur’an, al-Hashr, 59:7). Prophet Muhammad has cursed all four, and has declared that they are all equally guilty: “the one who takes interest, the one who pays interest, the one who records the transaction, and the two witnesses to the transaction.” The ‘chickens eventually come home to roost’ when such societies pay the price for the money-lender’s economic injustice in rampant uncontrollable violent crime such as armed robbery, kidnapping and wanton senseless murder. That is precisely the state of this society today. Cuban President, Fidel Castro, once described the world economy in similar language: “Never before did mankind have such formidable scientific and technological potential, such extraordinary capacity to produce riches and well-being, but never before were disparity and inequity so profound in the world.” He responded to this economic oppression by declaring that: “another Nuremberg is required to judge the unjust economic order.” Political parties, governments, banks, businessmen, etc. who construct, support and justify a usurious economy will one day have to answer for the economic injustice that results. Unless they turn away from such economic injustice, crime will continue to haunt the whole society. The link between economic injustice and today’s crime-ridden society would, of course, be dramatically broken when Jesus (peace be upon him) returns and gold and silver coins are restored as money, moneylending on interest is put to the sword, the hand of the thief is cut off, and justice prevails in a free and fair market. Truth would then triumph over all rivals. At that time those now waging unjust war on Islam and oppressing Muslims in order to preserve their barbaric economic and political dominance over all of mankind, would be consigned to the garbage-bin of history!

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South Asia Tribune I Thursday 25 August 2011

THE APPLES MOVES FAR Special Short Story

TREACHERY

ahlia, Dahlia...Dahlia,” the sound of my name echoed into the atmosphere as it repeated. Slowly lifting my eyelids, rapidly blinking as everything became vague, I groaned, my face screwing and peered at Decebal who desperately secured his hand over mine; did he think I was dead? I thought, turning towards him mumbling beneath my breath, then he stared at me full of worry, beaming beautifully as tears of guilt and relieve ran down. I frowned unsure of his emotions and flinched in pain, whinging, touching the side of my cheek, grumbling as I felt a bump. What was this? I thought how did this get here? No. I began to speak, “Why-why did this happen?” My voice was croaky, but from the sternness of both Decebal and Anna it was more than obvious they had a hand in it. Struggling to sit myself into a seating position, I huffed uneasy gawking at them bemused. “So what happened? How did I get this on my face?” I stared up at Anna who dropped her head unwilling to answer, sighing as I turned

to Decebal: a sharp and edged expression; I knew then that it was him who did it to me. I grimaced as I scowled at him in fear and confusion: why would he do this to me, “WHY! Why did you do this to me?” He looked down and clenched his jaw; enraged I jerked my leg prompting him to answer me, “I SAID WHY?” Gasping, I became stunned noticing tears absorbing

into the cover around me, I sighed and questioned in a sympathetic voice, “Why Decebal?” “I’m sorry! I just, I just panicked,” his voice became husked and angered, “YOU TWO!” We both flinched as he pointed at either one of us, “You two broke it and so I was upset and mad...” he broke off and carried on with a strained sound of plea and wrath, “Do you

guys have any idea what you’ve done? We’re dead! If you too could just get along more instead of arguing, we wouldn’t be here,” clearing his throat he sighed in dismal. Apologetically, Anna and I both eyed one another and then at him, reaching out a hand of mine, I tightened my grip, encouraging him: his flow ceased to end. “This

is my entire fault...” “No, we’re to bla...” We all shook by the crash of the front door, silently bawling in terror, portentous grunts stepped over the broken pieces. He reassuringly grasped my hand as I pleaded no’s, and then he whispered, “Shush...we have to go...we have to go now!”

DEBATE

Should I stay or should I go?

Keziah-Ann Abakah There are those that say money is the centre of all evil. There are those that say money goes hand in hand with happiness and there are those that say money is the reason I am not going to attend university. Which one of these people are you? The facts have been stated the articles have been printed and the commentators have left their comments. All that’s left is for the students to do what students do best... choose. There are many decisions one will have to make during life but the most prominent for the graduating students of 2011 is not which university to go to but if university is worth going to at all.

With the cost of Uni rising to three times its previous amount many are feeling discouraged to pursue career paths they would have otherwise taken. Aspirations that some have harboured since childhood are becoming aspirations and the desire to go into further education is being diminished. Whilst this is going on the expected questions are being asked. What should I do? Where do I go from here? Is Uni really and truly worth the money but what’s not to be expected are those who believe in accepting the unexpected. Now I don’t know about you and I am certainly in no position to tell anyone what to do. However I have enough knowledge of the world to say this. We live in a day

and age where money is perpetually changing hands what’s more is that we live in a land where university

fees are not paid upfront; loans are given as easily as air is exhaled and resources are found in abundance.

To live in such a land and let money deter you from pursuing a path that will reap plentiful rewards is a waste of consideration. University is not for everyone this I can acknowledge but what I will not acknowledge and refuse to believe is that money should prevent the world from turning. Where there is a will there is a way so quite simply it boils down to this. You either want it or you don’t. Before you fill that form or choose in fact not to carefully consider whether you should stay or go. Stay and live always thinking if only I’d... or go and see where a price tag will lead you. University money goes hand in hand with one question do I want it... or not?

South Asia Tribune I Thursday 25 August 2011

Education ENTERTAINMENT ‘I suffered a heart attack during A-level exam but still passed!’

A Cambridge student suffered a heart attack during one of his A-level exams - but still managed to get the grades he needed. Jairaj Chandran was 10 minutes into his theology paper in June when he suffered the attack and had to be rushed to Addenbrooke’s Hospital. It was caused by a heart condition called aortic valve incompetence, which he has had since birth. It means blood flows back into the heart instead of around the body. He said: ‘’I had only written about four lines before it happened. My chest got really tight and I was having trouble breathing. ‘’I asked to go outside, but I didn’t make it. My legs and fingers were numb. It was

terrifying. ‘’The doctors said it was probably stress related. I was nervous before the exams and theology was one of my worst subjects. ‘’I worked really hard for the exams - I revised for 7 hours every day - as I knew I needed them for university.” Originally from Malaysia, Jairaj has lived in Cambridge for seven years as a boarding student at The Leys School, Brookside, in Trumpington. After spending a week in Addenbrooke’s, he had replacement valve surgery at Papworth Hospital and he is still in recovery. Jairaj shows the scars left by his operation

Jessie J wows the crowd at V festival! Jessie J performed at the V Festival on the weekend and definitely left the huge crowd surprised. Jessie came on stage wearing a purple wig, a multi-colored leotard and one skyhigh black tasseled heel on her right foot. Jessie. A little while before the show she tweeted, “Saying goodbye to the purple hair. I missed my black bob too much. Felt like I was cheating on Meg. Lol. #blackbob” The Do it like a dude singer did not let her broken ankle get in the way of her performance; she luckily had someone carry her on and off stage.

By Rohma Khan

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Dear Miss R My ex girlfriend’s mum just passed away. She is devastated and all alone. I am unsure of my feelings for her but I want to be there for her. Each time I try to go see her she tells me no (over the phone) yet she is asking me where I am at and constantly calling. She has also asked me to help with selling her mom’s stuff and whatnot but keeps on wanting to put it off. I feel like she wants space but I see her falling apart. What should I do? Jeff Dear Jeff Your ex-girlfriend is in a very bad position emotionally so you should give her all the support that she needs without taking advantage of her. Right now you need to be a good friend to her and let her come to terms with the situation, after that you can confront her about any feelings you might have for her.

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Dear Miss R I find that approaching guys is hard for me, but I have had a crush on this guy for months and I like him a lot. I know my best friend told him when I first liked him, but he had a girlfriend then. We talk all the time and he has even expressed some intimate stuff about himself and how he does not approach girls often. I want to tell him I like him still, I am afraid of rejection. If he says no, it could end our friendship. What should I do? Anonymous

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Dear Anonymous You should not be afraid to share your feelings with this guy and tell him exactly how you feel. It is likely that he may also have feelings for you and if not then you can still be friends and it may even bring you closer. It is better to speak out and get rejected as you will always meet new people and boys rather than forever ask yourself that one question: what if? Miss R

aarc S

Saarc international I Thursday 25 August 2011

FREE

See Page 14

Thursday, 25.08.11

international

US diplomat calls Tamilians dark and dirty, apologizes

US diplomat was caught in a row after her remarks of “dirty and dark” Tamilians, prompting the American Consulate here to term them as “inappropriate”.”I was on a 24-hour train trip from Delhi to Orissa. But, after 72 hours, the train still did not reach the destination... And my skin became dirty and dark like the Tamilians,” US Vice-Consul Maureen Chao said, going down the memory lane two decades ago when she was a student. Going into a damage-control mode following her controversial remarks, the US Consulate said, “during the speech Ms. Chao made an inappropriate comment. Ms. Chao deeply regrets if her unfortunate remarks offended anyone, as that was certainly not her intent”. The Consulate said in a release that the diplomat was describing “positive memories from her own study abroad experiences in India 23 years ago”.

Work displayed in saarc int. are a review of southasianmedia.net. The information on this page is for information purposes only. The South Asia Tribune and SAARC International Ltd. assume no liability for any inaccurate, delayed, or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. The full story can be viewed at www.southasianmedia.net

Karachi: Killing Fields Is the MQM is responsible for Karachi killings ? Is it time for the British government to act? See full story on pages 24-25

Saarc international I Thursday 25 August 2011

SPECIAL FEATURE

What Now for Libya?

Meanwhile, the Libyan regime’s spokesman Moussa Ibrahim claims his country’s military is capable of continuing the war for years. He also says Gaddafi’s loyalists are prepared to turn Libya into what he calls a battlefield for resistance. Ibrahim also claimed that pro-Gaddafi forces have captured an opposition command and control center on the outskirts of Tripoli. NATO-member leaders have persistently demanded that Colonel Muammar Gaddafi step down and smoothly transfer power to the rebels’ National Transitional Council, but the British MP David Cameron has already stated that the very life of the colonel will depend on the goodwill of his opponents, who have openly been calling for his head over the last half-year of civil war. Rebels celebrating their victory inside the captured compound of Bab al-Aziziya Muammar Gaddafi’s whereabouts are still a matter of speculation. Saif al Islam claimed

during his appearance at Rixos Hotel that the Colonel is still in Tripoli.

But NATO said on Tuesday it does not know where Gaddafi is. The bloc also played down the Libyan leader’s importance in the conflict in the North African country, saying “he is not a key player anymore.” Moreover, Gaddafi’s leaving the country will not interrupt NATO operations in the country, as the bloc’s mission is to protect civilians, added Colonel Roland Lavoie, NATO’s spokesman. Britain’s government has decided to take control of Libyan oil facilities as British Petroleum announced plans to resume operations in oilrich North African country. As Libyan opposition fighters take control of more and more areas in the capital Tripoli, the world’s superpowers are trying to gain hegemony over the African country by securing lucrative contracts under the pretext of rebuilding Libya so that the country’s economy would become

dependent upon hegemonic powers. Before the beginning of revolution in Libya in February, the oil-rich country produced around 1.6 million barrels per day. Libya was the seventeenthlargest oil producer in the world and the third largest in Africa.

After six months of war, however, the country’s oil output has been reduced to just 100,000 barrels per day. As experts predict that the North African country’s oil output could reach 1 million barrels per day within a few months, British Petroleum, has announced plans to return to Libya as “soon as conditions allow.” Meanwhile, a spokesman for UK Trade & Investment which is a part of Department of Business, announced that the British government plans to secure a major share in Libya’s market seeking to win profitable contracts. “We are in regular contact with companies and organizations who have business interests

in Libya and have been throughout the conflict. As soon as the situation on the ground allows, UKTI has plans to provide in-country support and advice to companies wishing to be part of the reconstruction effort,” he said. Moreover, Director Government Support at Control Risks Chris Sanderson, an international risk consultancy and security management company, said that there is an unprecedented “opportunity for UK business to seek to recover commercially some measure of the UK’s significant diplomatic and military investment.”

He explained that there are opportunities for the British businesses on three grounds. First, Libya’s need to rebuild infrastructure provides British companies with numerous profitable contracts. Second, British business can operate in fields like “health, education and civil security.” Finally, British companies can exploit Libya’s oil and gas sectors as well as “commercial support services such as banking, finance and telecommunications.”

Saarc international I Thursday 25 August 2011

WEEKLY REVIEW OF AFGHANISTAN NEWS

Afghan poll court expels 9 lawmakers from parliament T

he response by Afghanistan’s election commission to allegations of widespread vote fraud is an apparent attempt to end persistent turmoil over last September’s balloting. Afghanistan’s election commission on Sunday announced the expulsion of nine lawmakers because of allegations of vote fraud, an apparent attempt to bring an end to months of turmoil over last year’s fraud-tainted

UK troops in Afghanistan ‘friendly-fire’ 19 times

parliamentary elections. The September vote was marred

by a raft of allegations of voter intimidation and fraud. Initially,

Afghan interpreters pay a high price for working for Britain

ritish troops were accidentally fired upon by Afghan forces in Helmand at least 19 times over three-and-a-half years, military incident logs reveal. Four of the so-called friendly-fire incidents resulted in casualties, although none fatal, it was disclosed after a Freedom of Information request. Between January 2008 and June 2009, Afghan personnel came under friendly-fire by UK troops at least 10 times.

wenty-one Afghan interpreters working with British forces have been killed and more than

90 injured over the past five years, official figures show. So far this year alone, three have

Attack on British Council compound in Kabul kills eight

uicide attackers have stormed the British Council office in the Afghan capital, Kabul, killing at least eight people and taking over the compound. After at least three explosions, a number of heavily armed men forced their way into the compound. The Taliban said the attack marked the anniversary of Afghanistan’s independence from the UK in 1919.

election officials had set aside a quarter of the cast ballots and

A UK Foreign Office spokeswoman later said: “We can confirm there was an attack against a British Council compound in Afghanistan. It was a three-phase attack, First, a suicide attacker detonated his explosive vest at a main square in western Kabul where police were guarding a key intersection shortly after. Ten minutes later, a suicide car bomber detonated his vehicle outside

the front gate of the British Council, adds our correspondent. As the area was evacuated, local shopkeepers say as many as nine suicide attackers armed with rocketpropelled grenades, heavy machine guns and AK 47s started firing as they ran towards the British Council building. They have exchanged fire with police force.

died and 19 been wounded in the course of their duties, although their deaths are generally not announced by the Ministry of Defence. Interpreters face the same risks of improvised explosive devices and insurgent ambushes as the troops they translate for when they go out on patrols in some of the deadliest parts of Helmand province. A Foreign Office spokeswoman said: “Locally-engaged Afghan staff working for our armed forces and civilian missions in Afghanistan make an invaluable contribution to the UK’s efforts to help support the spread of security, stability and development in their country.

disqualified 19 winning candidates. The decision on Sunday by the Independent Election Commission, announced by its chairman, Fazal Ahmad Manawi, appeared to be a compromise aimed at settling the controversy. The announcement came after Karzai relented this month and agreed that the commission had final authority over election complaints. But he also wanted the commission to review some cases decided by the tribunal.

First AfghanUAE meeting to be held

pokesperson of Foreign Affairs said that the first meeting of the joint Afghan-Emirate commission for economic, cultural and political cooperation shall be held in the coming future in United Arab Emirates (UAE). At the meeting Dr Zalmai Rasoul Minister of Foreign Affairs will led the Afghan delegation. He added that this commission was created in 2009 and at the coming meeting vast dimensions of cooperation between the two nations will be discussed and practical grounds will be sought for adoption of an understanding agreement in different spheres.

21 people killed by roadside bomb: officials

roadside bomb killed at least 21 passengers travelling on a minibus on Thursday in western Afghanistan, another example of civilians being caught in the crossfire of fighting between Taliban insurgents and the US-led coalition. In the country’s east, a suicide car bomber attacked a coalition base on Thursday, killing two Afghan security guards, officials said, and the Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack.

Twelve of the victims were children under the age of 5, three were women and six were men, he said. Eleven others were wounded, he said. Afghan President Hamid Karzai and the US-led coalition condemned the bombings. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the suicide car bombing at a provincial reconstruction team base that Americans operate near Gardez, the capital of Paktia province.

Saarc international I Thursday 25 August 2011

WEEKLY REVIEW OF BANGLADESH NEWS

‘Govt aims to identify country as failed state’ B

NP Standing Committee member Dr Khandaker Mosharraf Hossainhas alleged that the present government has created a chaotic situation in the country in a planned way aiming to identify the country as a failed state. He was speaking at a discussion on “Government’s Responsibility to Create Political Violence in the Country” at the National Press Club on Sunday. Bangladesh Rural & Human Rights Journalist’s Forum(BRHRJF) organised the discussion with its chairman Mohammad Sakhawat

HossainIbne Moyeen Chowdhury in the chair.

PM for time-befitting job-oriented education

rime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Saturday said her government is underscoring diversification in the education for time-befitting, job-oriented and science-based education for all. “We have been working relentlessly for diversification in the education to ensure time-

befitting job-oriented and sciencebased education for all to keep pace with the modern world,” she said while inaugurating the admission process of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Science and Technology University (BSMRSTU), Gopalganj at her official Gono Bhaban residence.

Secretary General of Bangladesh Jatiya Party Abu NaserMohammad Rahmatullah and President of Shere-Bangla Agriculture University Teachers’ Association Prof Dr Md Rafiqul Islam addressed the programme among others. Khandaker Mosharraf said Bangladesh is now passing acritical moment due to misrule and misdeeds of the government. The countrymenare annoyed with the government and they want to see its fall down soon, headded. Mentioning the upcoming visit

of the Indian Prime Ministerto Bangladesh, the BNP leader said the visit is very important to improve relations between the two countries. He called upon the government to settle different unsettled issues with India, including water sharing of Teesta, Ganges, security across the border and construction of Tipaimukhi Dam during the visit. He alleged that Bangladesh cannot settle different issues with the neighboring country due to weak foreign policy of the present government.

Outfit Huji chief’s arrest

apid Action Battalion members arrest the Ameer of the banned militant outfit Harkatul-Jihad al-Islami (Huji) with two of his associates while travelling in a bus in Bhairab upazila of Kishoreganj. The crime busters arrested Maulana Yahiya and his two sidekicks— Maulana Bahauddin and Yar Mohammad— from the

Kishoreganj-bound bus from Sylhet Rab sources said a team of the elite force, being tipped off that the trio was going to Kishoreganj by a bus, took position near Durjoy intersection on Dhaka-Sylhet highway. Later, they raided several buses and found the Huji chief and his accomplices in one of them.

New date for Sayedee

he International Crimes Tribunal re-sets August 23 for framing charges against Jamaat-e-Islami leader Delwar Hossain Sayedee. Chairman of the three-member tribunal Justice Nizamul Haque set the new date as the counsel for Sayedee said they did not consult his client in the jail gate as proper arrangements were not provided. The tribunal, however, granted a petition of the defence counsel to visit his client in the jail gate for consultation following the jail code. The court rejected a petition of the defence counsel seeking review of its earlier order, which was passed on August 14, after taking the charges into cognizance against Sayedee. Earlier, Sayedee was produced before the tribunal. Sayedee is now detained in jail in several cases including alleged involvement in crimes against humanity during the War of Liberation.

Thousands marooned, crops flooded

housands of people were marooned and crops on vast tracts of land flooded as river overflowed in Natore and dykes collapsed in Netrakona and Gaibandha districts yesterday and the day before. Aman and aus plants on around 500 hectares of land in Natore were submerged as heavy rain during the last five days triggered flash flood in Chalon Beel area of Singra upazila, reports our correspondent. Aman was cultivated on 56,000 hectares of land in the district this season, said an official at Natore Department of Agriculture Extension. He, however, could not say clearly about the extent of damage caused by the recent

flood.Many farmers are cutting down submerged aman plants to use those as fodder, locals said.

Flood situation in Netrakona deteriorated further as ‘Jibon Rakkha’ embankment collapsed

Saturday night, reports our correspondent.Flood waters damaged at least 30 thousand

hectares of newly planted aman crops, several hundred hectares of vegetable fields in the affected areas. Teesta flowing above danger mark yesterday washed away 1,200 meter stretch of the dyke and flooded the seedbeds and recently transplanted aman on a vast tract of land, WDB officials said. At least 30,000 people have been marooned in different char lands in the Teesta basin. Local people with the help of NGOs have started to rescue the affected families and cattlehead from remote areas, said Abdus Samand Khoka, chairman of Tarapur union.The aman seedbeds and the transplanted aman seedlings will be perished if the water remains stagnant for five to seven days, he added.

Saarc international I Thursday 25 August 2011

WEEKLY REVIEW OF BHUTAN NEWS

Filling in on opposition’s roles, responsibilities A few civil servants did ask about daily allowance and mileage claims which they felt required revision. This lack of awareness, a civil servant cited, was the many Bhutanese being locked up because of the Tobacco Control Act which although was good had turned bad because of the process in which it was enforced. In his almost an hour long meeting with local leaders and some civil servants of Pemagatshel, before heading to Samdrupjongkhar, the opposition leader filled them in about the role of an opposition

party in a democracy. Whoever becomes the opposition party in future, he said, it was important they understood their roles and responsibilities. Most of the two-hour long interaction also comprised lectures on the roles and responsibilities of an opposition party in a democratic country. “Many feel our work is to bring down the government, which is untrue,” he said. “We believe in nurturing the rule of law and what we do today has long hand for future opposition parties.”

Hope springs eternal for believers in Bhutan

here are conflicting reports over what’s changing in the spiritual climate in Bhutan. On one hand, Bhutan ranks 14th on the Open Doors World Watch List. The listing is a compilation of the 50 countries where persecution of Christians is the worst. In this case, it’s not one particular faith that has been targeted.

At 99, grandma from Bhutan chooses new life over old AMAK, Nepal, August 22 (UNHCR) - Unlike many elderly refugees in eastern Nepal’s camps who pass their time reading scriptures and chatting with each other, 99-year-old Bishnu Maya Bharati grabs her refugee identity card and visits the UN refugee agency’s office every now and then, asking about her resettlement case. The old woman, along with eight family members, has been waiting to get resettled in the United States, the largest destination of refugees from Bhutan opting for third country resettlement. Five members of her elder son’s family have already started new lives in the United States. “I want to go for resettlement rather than go back to Bhutan as the future of my children and grandchildren will be better in the US,” said Bharati. She had served as a community representative back in Bhutan, and is now an active member of the refugee community in Nepal’s Beldangi camp. Still haunted by her past experiences, she said she would still opt for resettlement if repatriation eventually becomes possible.

Nine Dzongkha books launched

The Dzongkha Development Commission (DDC), in its effort to promote the national langauge, launched nine books yesterday. A guide to translations, a handbook of abbreviation, unicode tools for Dzongkha (a guide to installation and configuration), books on Dzongkha verbs, Dzongkha honorific, ballads and a book on the name of countries and their capitals are expected to tighten up Dzongkha grammar, literature and sentence of learners and readers, said officials at the launch. A CD containing Dzongkha-

English and English-Dzongkhadictionaries will save users from referring to dictionaries, as they can do it a a click of a button. It has also resources for Dzongkha computing and publications as well. DDC officials said that they felt publishing as many books as possible in Dzongkha would help promote Dzongkha literature. “We’ll try to produce materials and resources in Dzongkha, and make available to our readers,” said DDC’s secretary, Dasho Sherub Gyeltshen.

Thousands of devotees took the Poshadha vow from His Holiness the Je Khenpo yesterday at the Tendrelthang outside the Trashichhodzong. His Holiness conducted the Sojong Dompa and also initiated the oral transmission and empowerment of the Dodey Jachher Roelpa. All devotees, who took the vow are required to observe fasting and celibacy for 24 hours.

Although Bhutan’s constitution states that Buddhism is the “spiritual heritage” of the country, Lee DeYoung with Words of Hope says, “It’s one of the few countries in the world where it is said there are no open mosques, Hindu temples, Christian churches or Jewish synagogues.”

Who studied what?

achelors in Arts, (General) is the most studied course among graduates, who are attending this year’s national graduates orientation program. Of some 1,700 graduates, 381 are BA, general graduates and 52, BA honours graduates. Last year there were 237 BA general and 47 BA (Hons) graduates. It’s followed by 288 graduates with bachelors in business administration (BBA) and 112 graduates with bachelors in commerce (BCom) and 96 with bachelors in business management (BBM). What labour officials said is that these graduates, who add up to almost 500, would be competing for the same jobs in the market. Last year there were 345 graduates in BBA, BBM and BCom. There are 138 graduates, who have studied computer application, and 86 with BSc in IT. There are only five architects. Against the 10 MBBS slots the Royal Civil Service Commission has announced, there are nine, who are attending the orientation, along with two dental surgeons.

Eighty six are Dzongkha graduates, while 47 have studied media or journalism. The shortage of engineers might be addressed to some extent, when the 47 civil, 55 electrical and eight mechanical engineers fill in the vacancies this year. There are also 17 electronics and communication engineers, nine electrical and electronic engineers, another nine computer engineers and only one IT engineer. Eleven of the 1,700 graduates have

as masters in Buddhist philosophy, forestry, business economics, business administration and MIE. Among the graduates are also 26 lawyers. The maximum number of graduates are from colleges in India, 1096, and 561 from colleges in Bhutan. Eight have graduated from USA, and five each from Bangladesh and Canada. There are four graduates, who studied in Australia and Sri Lanka each, two from the Philippines, and a graduate each, who studied in Cuba, Japan and Russia.

Saarc international I Thursday 25 August 2011

WEEKLY REVIEW OF INDIA NEWS

Hunger striker calls for protests at homes of MPs, Ministers W

hile accepting the offer of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for a dialogue on ending the impasse on the formulation of the Lokpal legislation, Anna Hazare on Sunday not only widened the agitation by calling on his supporters to confront individual Members of Parliament and Union Ministers at their homes but also warned the UPA government that its days would be numbered if it failed to pass the Bill by August 30. Following up on the Prime Minister’s offer on Saturday for talks, the Centre has launched a backchannel effort to work out a solution with the fasting anti-

corruption crusader, but Team Anna said no formal approach

had been made. The government on Saturday

indicated informally that it would like four months’ time to take

Seek fresh mandate, Advani tells PM S peaking at a party workers’ meeting here on Sunday, Mr. Advani said the people had lost faith in the Congress-led UPA government after the 2G spectrum scam and allegations of black money. Senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader L.K. Advani has demanded that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh step down and seek a fresh mandate from the people. Speaking at a party workers’ meeting here on Sunday, Mr. Advani said the people had lost faith in the Congress-

led UPA government after the 2G spectrum scam and allegations of black money. The common man could not lead a happy life due to high inflation. “Even in villages people are talking about corruption, scams and the money stacked in Swiss banks. Dr. Singh has not contested elections directly till now. At least now, the Prime Minister should quit the post and contest elections,” Mr. Advani said. Attacking UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and the Prime Minister, the BJP leader said both were responsible

for the scams. The Prime Minister had defended the corrupt Ministers, including the former Union Telecommunications Minister, A. Raja, and Rajya Sabha member Kanimozhi. Blaming the Congress for bribing MPs to protect the government when the Left parties withdrew support in 2008 over the nuclear deal with the U.S., Mr. Advani said the Supreme Court had taken up investigation in the cash-for-votes case and hoped the culprits would be booked soon.

a decision on the matter after a thorough discussion, a suggestion Mr. Hazare’s supporters turned down immediately. Team Anna member Arvind Kejriwal denied the possibility of any reconciliation. Mr. Hazare’s supporters held a rally from India Gate to the Ramlila grounds, where Mr. Hazare’s fast entered the sixth day, while several others — responding to the call of Team Anna — staged dharnas in front of the homes of several Union Ministers. At least 80 demonstrators were arrested when they sought to stage a sit-in in front of the Prime Minister’s residence on Race Course Road.

Manmohan: scope for give-and-take on Lokpal Bill

mid growing clamour for a robust Lokpal institution by a broad political spectrum and vocal demonstration of street power by anti-corruption crusader Anna Hazare, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday said there was a ‘lot of scope for give-and-take’ on the draft Bill presented by the government in the Lok Sabha. It had since been referred to the Standing Committee.

India abandons Wullar project Hazare to begin fast on Ramlila grounds today ahead of Pakistan talks

joint statement, issued after the two-day Water Secretarylevel engagement between the two countries, said India would provide comprehensive technical data to Pakistan within a month. Pakistan would examine this data and furnish its views to India by September 15. The Dawn reported that India offered to change the

design of the project in a way that one of the bays would remain an un-gated structure to ensure a constant flow of water and thereby address Pakistan’s concern of manipulation. Ahead of another round of Indo-Pak water talks scheduled in mid-September, the Jammu and Kashmir government has quietly abandoned the

controversy-ridden plan to construct a concrete barrage where the Jhelum meets the Wullar lake in north Kashmir.It’s a small move with big implications: a persistent irritant in bilateral ties, the dumping of the barrage could prove a significant confidencebuilding measure between India and Pakistan. Work on the venture, christened the Tulbul Navigation Project by New Delhi but better known as the Wullar barrage, was stopped two years after it commenced in 1984 upon strong objections from Pakistan which argued the lockcum-control barrage would not only deprive it of water but could also be used as a “natural weapon” against it. Initial plans envisaged the construction of a barrage 439 feet high and 40 feet wide with a maximum storage capacity of 300,000 acre feet of water.

eam Anna had bargained hard with Police Commissioner B.K. Gupta till the early hours of the day, and succeeded in getting written permission for the two-week-long fast which, it was mutually agreed, could be extended. Social activist Anna Hazare on Thursday reached an understanding with the government to stage a two-week-long fast on the spacious

Ramlila grounds here on the Lokpal Bill issue. Team Anna, comprising Kiran Bedi, Prashant Bhushan, Arvind Kejriwal and Manish Sisodia, had bargained hard with Police Commissioner B.K. Gupta till the early hours of the day, and succeeded in getting written permission for the two-week-long fast which, it was mutually agreed, could be extended.

Saarc international I Thursday 25 August 2011

WEEKLY REVIEW OF PAKISTAN NEWS

Wave of violence in Karachi: PM for optimal use of police, Rangers P

rime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani is of the opinion that a military action in Karachi is not a solution to the law and order problem in the city and says that the issue can be resolved with the optimal use of police and Rangers. Talking to reporters here on Sunday, he said that the security forces could be strengthened to do the job. He also said that a formal request by a provincial government was needed to deploy army for helping the civil administration. “Army can be called in Karachi only at the request of the

provincial government. The federal government will provide

all possible assistance to the provincial government in this

regard,” the prime minister said. Mr Gilani said he was aware of statements being made by different quarters for deployment of army in Karachi. He also referred to a recent statement by Chief of Army Staff Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani who expressed concern over the Karachi situation and said that the army was waiting for a signal from the government to help the administration. He pledged to bring to justice the elements involved in violence in Karachi, irrespective of their party affiliation. Replying to a question about

Pak-China Business Forum to enhance bilateral trade A

s part of ongoing trade talks and negotiations to boost bilateral trade while celebrating the 60th year of friendship between Pakistan and China, a high profile business delegation is planned to visit China this month. President Asif Ali Zardari will also join the Pakistan China Business Forum to be held at Shanghai from August 25 to 27. During the three days meetings and talks would be held and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) would be signed between the two countries related to cooperation and investment in various sectors. The delegation led by President

Asif Ali Zardari would also attend textile fairs and exhibitions scheduled to be held at Urumqi while the President would later leave for Tajikistan to attend

Kayani says calling army in Karachi government’s prerogative

he COAS says the army will do whatever it could, if it is called to restore peace in Karachi. Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani says military is ready to assist the government in Karachi if it is asked. Talking to the journalists after attending a function at the GHQ, he said it was the duty of the Army to

serve the nation. He said that by utilising the services of the Rangers and police in an effective manner in the industrial hub of the country, the situation could be brought under control. He said it was wrong to undermine the ability of the Rangers. General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani said Karachi is the jugular vein of the country’s economy and it will be a great injustice if the deteriorating law and order situation there is allowed to continue for a longer period. Asked whether the Army intended to intervene in the matter itself, the Army chief said it was impossible adding there were central and provincial governments both of whom were hectically engaged over the issue.

celebrations of the foreign country’s 20th Independence Day, on invitation of the Tajik President Emomali Rahmon. Trade Development Authority of Pakistan

Chief Executive Tariq Puri and Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry President Senator Haji Ghulam Ali will also lead the business group from Pakistani side. According to sources, businessmen on both sides had also identified enormous areas of mutual cooperation and particularly the Pakistani side had emphasised upon the government and the private sector of China to consider investment in Pakistan through joint ventures. Both the countries, sources claimed, were trying to reach a bilateral trade target of $12 billion by the end of 2012.

negotiations between the government and the MQM, he said: “The priority at this stage is to engage the MQM for improving the law and order situation in Karachi and not to persuade them to rejoin the ruling coalition in Sindh . “The MQM people have been good companions of the government in the past and we will welcome them back into the fold,” he said. He recalled that it was MQM chief Altaf Husain who had proposed the name of Asif Ali Zardari for the post of president.

Gold touches new peak at Rs60,600

ocal gold price continued to break its previous historical record and on Friday it touched a new peak of Rs60,600 per tola, up by Rs2,200 as compared to Wednesday. According to Hanif Chand of Karachi Sarafa Jewellers Group the 10 gram gold price went up by Rs1,885 to Rs51,942 on the back of rising international rate, which surged to $1,872 per ounce, up by $80 per ounce as compared to Wednesday. Some slight declining trend was seen in global gold price last week on reports that Federal Reserves would keep the interest rate intact for two years.

National Finance Commission: Centre reconvenes top finance body

resident Asif Ali Zardari on Thursday made his appointments to the National Finance Commission, as the federal government gears to lobby for a new resource distribution formula between the centre and provinces, barely a year after the

implementation of thE Non-statutory members of the commission, according to the constitution, are appointed by the president on the recommendation of provincial governors. Other members of the commission include the federal finance minister as its

chairperson and provincial finance ministers as statutory members. Balochistan is the only province that has opted to nominate a new member, Sheikh Jaffar Khan Mandokhail, in place of Dr Gulfraz who was part of the negotiations for the 7th NFC Award.

South Asia Tribune I Thursday 25 August 2011

Funeral held for three Muslims men killed in last week’s Birmingham riots

The murder of the three Muslim men in Birmingham, allegedly by black men, was prevented from turning into internecine war by the exceptional moral behaviour of the bereaved families. So far, the city has avoided the catastrophic hostilities of yesteryear between black youths Organisers estimated 25,000, Muslims and nonMuslims alike to bid a final goodbye to three men cut down protecting their local community at the height of last week’s riots. Thousands more lined streets around the park and the scene in nearby Dudley Road where the men, described as martyrs, died as they protected property at the height of the disorder last week. As the bodies of Haroon Jahan, Shahzad Ali and Abdul Musavir were brought into Birmingham’s Summerfield Park for a public funeral prayer this afternoon, the crowd surged forward, some of them chanting “Allahu akbar” (God is greatest). People of all colours and religions heard that the deaths of Haroon Jahan, 21, and the brothers Shahzad Ali, 30, and Abdul Musavir, 31, heralded a “new chapter for Muslims in Britain”. A new history was being written, Sheik Muhammad Yaqoubi said, in which the Islamic community played its part in social action, where Muslims defended everybody’s communities, where Muslims were the most loyal of British. Shaykh Muhammed Al Yaqoubi then made an address in which he called for a national day to be held to forever mark the men’s sacrifices.

and Asian shopkeepers. But, truth to tell, race, religion and ethnicity still stain the way people feel, act and try to understand what has happened. Why, they ask, are people described as “Asian” when they behave nobly (as they did in Birmingham) and “Muslims”

He added: “We are not here to show our sorrow or sadness. “We can be sad and sorry when such innocent lives are lost for no cause. “But when the cause for which they sacriﬁced is so great, it shows to us that these men opened up a new way for Muslims in the UK.“Writers write with ink on pages to advocate Islam.“But these three martyrs wrote with their blood on the annals of history.” Unlike Sunday’s service, an impromptu memorial event organised by different sections of the Winson Green community, yesterday’s ceremony was distinctly Islamic. Worshippers segregated themselves into male and female sections as the salat al-janazah – the Islamic funeral prayer – was broadcast over loud speakers. To the sides of the park hundreds of non-Muslim locals also turned out to show their support. “I wanted to come here because I am so sad, sad deep within me,” said Adele, who came to Birmingham from the West Indies when she was 18 and has lived in the area for ﬁve decades. “Those boys could have been anyone of our kids. They were protecting their families, everyone has a right to do that.”

when the story is negative? And, there are complaints from the area where the dead men lived. A Muslim resident told a newspaper: “One black man is killed and there are riots across the UK. Three Asians are killed and you don’t see an MP.”

Denise Moyce, 42, came down to the park with her 12year-old daughter Lucy. “My husband used to work out at the gym with the two brothers Shahzad and Musavir,” she said. “He couldn’t be here today so we came down. It is appalling what has happened to their families, it’s a tragedy that has hit the area hard.” Among the Muslim worshippers, many described the day as happy one because of a firm belief that the three men, who had died protecting a mosque in the holy month of Ramadan, were martyrs who are guaranteed a place in heaven. “These three men are shaheed,” said 50-year-old Mohammad Khalid, using the Islamic term for a martyr. “They went out to defend their community. There was no selfish gain in what they did. That is what jihad is really about.” Others heaped praise on Tariq Jahan, the dignified father of Haroon whose repeated calls for calm within hours of his son’s death helped avert a further disaster. “Huge credit must go to Tariq,” said Mohammed Ahmed, a 41-year-old estate agent from nearby Edgbaston. “He instantly managed to dispel the anger. He showed us that if a man who has just lost a son can show such

restraint, such forgiveness, then so should we.” Many in the crowd wept openly as Sheikh Muhammad Ali Yaqoubi, a Syrian-born Islamic scholar who is highly respected among British Muslims, gave a speech eulogising the three men. “Writers write with ink on pages to advocate Islam,” he said. “But these three men wrote with their blood in the annals of Islam. On that blessed morning, these martyrs sacriﬁced themselves in defence of our community, to defend their family members, to defend their homes. They made themselves an example of what a Muslim should be and what Islam is.” Outside the petrol station on Dudley Road where the three men were killed, an enormous shrine of ﬂowers and candles has since sprung up. Many locals have used a condolence book at the foot of the shrine to share how the tragedy has effected them. “I still look at my phone, thinking you’re going to call me,” wrote Afzal Khan, a friend of Haroon. “I still can’t delete your number because I think you are out there somewhere. I’m man enough to admit that I;ve cried most nights, just like all the boys. We never thought one of our boys – our little brother – would go.”

Prince William says we must all ﬁght back together on Birmingham visit with Kate William and Kate were greeted outside Summerﬁeld Community Centre in Winson Green, Birmingham, by Paul Sabapathy, Lord Lieutenant of the West Midlands, Anita Ward, the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, and Chris Sims, the Chief Constable of West Midlands Police. The centre is a short distance from the spot in Dudley Road where three Muslim men were killed by a car as they tried to protect shops and homes from looters. The duke and duchess began their visit with a private meeting with the men’s parents. They spent 15 minutes speaking with the bereaved families before moving into the centre’s sports hall to meet members of the emergency services and local dignitaries.

Wajid Shamsul Hasan, the Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK, delivered a short speech after the prayer. He said: “I came here on behalf of the people of Pakistan, to pass on our condolences at the deaths of the three boys who gave their lives to protect us all.”

Saarc international I Thursday 25 August 2011

WEEKLY REVIEW OF MALDIVE NEWS

President hands over guarantee of acquisition P

development of greater Malé area, was initiated by the government to decongest Malé and provide a healthy and affordable living space for the people in Malé. The programme launched on 10 November 2010 aims to combine the development of Malé, Vilingili, Gulhi Falhu, Thilafushi, Hulhumalé and Malé International Airport. Under phase 1 of the Veshi Fahi Malé programme, a total of 1,000 parties in the first category will be able to apply for housing schemes. The housing schemes include 500 housing units in Malé, 250 housing units in Hulhumalé, and 250 housing plots in Hulhumalé.

resident Mohamed Nasheed has handed over guarantee documents for the acquisition of 94 lands from the 240 allocated lands in Hulhumale’, under the “Veshi Fahi Malé” Programme. The President handed over the relevant documents at the ceremony held yesterday evening at the President’s Office. Speaking at the function, Male’ City Councillor Adam Manik, director of the Veshi Fahi programme, said the government was very hopeful that the programme would be a success and that it would help alleviate congestion in Male’. “Veshi Fahi Malé”, programme for the

Govt seeks support for economic reform bills

resident Mohamed Nasheed has signaled the government’s willingness to address opposition concerns and incorporate changes to the proposed economic reform bills currently before parliament. Speaking to press following an official meeting with main opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP) Leader Ahmed Thasmeen Ali at the President’s Office last night, Nasheed said that the government would consider DRP proposals after “discussions at a technical level.”

“Our wish is to find a way to enter into detailed discussions with the DRP,” he said. “I asked Thasmeen about it and he said they will give an answer after consultation with their party.” He added that broad consensus and bipartisan support was very important before putting a taxation system in place: “In my view, all citizens and politicians in the country understand very clearly that establishing a taxation system is not going to benefit a particular government.”

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Cabinet Meeting to be held in G Dh. Thinadhoo

cabinet meeting is to be held in Thinadhoo of South Huvadhoo Atoll. Discussions will be held on the Thinadhoo Island Council’s request to the President to change the name of Thinadhoo, and about development programmes planned for Thinadhoo and Upper South province. A working session will be held prior to the cabinet meeting.

MPs call to avoid reviews affecting tourism M

Ps today urged all the parties to avoid making any comments that would have negative effects on the tourism industry. The MPs made the comments during the debate in today’s parliament sitting over the urgent issue submitted by Vaikaradhoo MP Ali Arif following the incident where a Japanese couple went missing in Adaaran Huduranfushi Island Resort and the comments made by Tourism Minister Dr Mariyam Zulfa that the water bungalows in the resorts are unsafe for tourists. The members, who expressed concerns over the tragic incidents that happened recently in Maldivian resorts, said submitting urgent resolutions to the parliament over the incidents and blaming others would have negative effects on the tourism industry. Meedhoo MP Ahmed Shiyam, who owns several resorts, said the Maldives high-class tourism industry, which he said is unbeatable in the world, is in decline because of the strikes by resort employees, pointing the “wrong finger” and the deficiency in promotional activities. Thoddu MP Ali Waheed, from the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP), said bringing such incidents to the parliament would affect the tourism industry as their causes are still unknown. Waheed, however, spoke to the effect that the recent death of a British couple in a road smash in Kuredu Island Resort is linked to the resort’s shareholder Mohamed ‘Champa’ Moosa. “Other resorts were affected by the incident that happened in Kuredu [Island Resort],” he said. Nolhivaram MP Mohamed ‘Colonel’ Nasheed, who also represents MDP,

said accusing a person of “deliberately killing a person is an issue” and urged the MPs to be “mature when talking about these incidents”. “Politically-motivated comments might affect a particular party. Such comments will also affect the whole nation,” he said. Nasheed described the urgent resolution as politically motivated and said international media will

carry the news when the parliament discusses the death of tourists before the investigation. Opposition MPs, however, said the urgent resolution submitted by MDP’s interim Chairperson Moosa ‘Reeko’ Manik, who represents HulhuHenveiru constituency, over the death of the British couple in Kuredu was not deemed politically motivated by MDP members.

Only Thasmeen was brave to meet Nasheed - Shareef

eputy Leader of the main opposition Dhivehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), Ibraheem Shareef (Mavota) has said that there is no opposition leader other than DRP Leader

Ahmed Thasmeen Ali who was brave enough to meet President Mohamed Nasheed. In view of the meeting of DRP Leader Thasmeen with President Nasheed to discuss the government’s economic reform agenda and introduction of comprehensive tax reforms, DRP Deputy Leader Shareef said that it is important for the opposition leaders to meet the President and foster dialogue. Shareef deemed the talks are important both for the opposition and government.

Saarc international I Thursday 25 August 2011

SPECIAL NEWS FEATURE

After Hundreds killed, Operation underway in Karachi A

massive search operation is underway in the violence-hit areas of Karachi. Several suspects have been arrested and a large cache of illegal arms has been seized. Sindh Home Minister Manzoor Wassan has that nine areas have been pin-pointed to launch a ‘surgical operation’ in the initial phase. Speaking to the media in Karachi, Wassan said the operation had been launched in four areas overnight with the consent of political parties. The home minister said eleven target killers have been arrested during the last two days, while 83 suspects have also been detained. He said 54 cases have been filed against the accused. Commander Sachal Rangers, Brigadier Waseem Ayub said that 14 suspects were arrested during the targeted operation at 20 different places across Karachi. Senior Sindh Minister Zulfiqar Mirza on Monday criticised Interior Minister Rehman Malik, advising him to leave Karachi and stay at the Centre so as to enable the provincial

government to deal with the situation itself. Taking serious notice of Malik’s incessant visits to Karachi, Mirza, during the Sindh cabinet meeting, advised Malik against visiting the city for the next 15 days. Sources said the cabinet meeting turned into a battle between the federal and Sindh governments and no decision was made on how to arrest the situation in Karachi. Insiders quoted Mirza having said in a taunting tone that PPP members elected Rehman Malik as Senator from Sindh but he was protecting the interests of the MQM. He blamed that Malik was creating misunderstanding between the two parties. “He (Malik) has been briefing the governor about each and every policy of the PPP and favouring the MQM,” Mirza further charged. “All of this [violence] is happening in Karachi because of his [Malik’s] role,” said Mirza. “I request that a ban be imposed on his entry in Sindh.” Everyone at the meeting was surprised when Zulfiqar Mirza produced some documents and claimed for the first time

that the Sindh governor was involved in land grabbing. He produced the statement of ex-MD Malir Development Authority Amirzada Kohati before the meeting. He said this statement was given to the investigation team. He also showed some other documents and

claimed that Rehman Malik intervened and stopped the police from registering FIR against MQM leader Nisar Panhwar, who was arrested with weapons being smuggled into Karachi. The senior provincial minister said it was the responsibility of the Sindh government to maintain law and order in Karachi and advised Rehman Malik not to interfere in matters of the provincial government. Mirza, who came with a bundle of files, also produced some documents before the meeting and claimed that intelligence agencies provided these documents. These pertained to the activities of MQM activists. He told the prime minister that action must be taken against these elements. Insiders claimed that Prime Minister Gilani did not defend Rehman Malik. However, he told the meeting that the interior minister was visiting the city on the directives of President Asif Ali Zardari. The minister on his part said he would not visit Karachi again if wanted by Mirza.

Saarc international I Thursday 25 August 2011

WEEKLY REVIEW OF NEPAL NEWS

More Chinese security cash

he Chinese government promises to provide an additional NRs 110 million assistance to Nepal to strengthen its defence capabilities. Home Ministry Spokesperson Sudhir Kumar Shah said Chinese leader Zhou Yongkang last week announced the Chinese government would provide the fund for strengthening capabilities of Nepal Police and Armed Police Force if a formal request to this effect was extended During the signing ceremony in Home Ministry in Kathmandu last week, Zhou had told Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Narayan Kaji Shrestha that China would like to see effective management of Nepal’s border with Tibet. An official at the Foreign Ministry informed that China would provide the additional fund if Nepal government officially submits a request for the assistance to improve the management of the northern border with Tibet.

he government registers a bill in the House, seeking a fresh three-month extension of the Constituent Assembly a week ahead of the assembly’s term expiry on August 31.The move has generated criticism from the senior coalition partner, UCPN (Maoist). The Maoists want a six-month extension at the very least. Unlike the atmosphere in the run-up to the last extension in May, there are relatively few voices calling for CA’s dissolution this time. In large part, the resignation of Prime Minister Jhala Nath Khanal has robbed the parties of a bargaining chip in relation to the CA’s fate. An agreement on the next government could ease the extension process.

Maoists and Nepali Congress agree to disagree on peace Maoists present their proposal plus the peace roadmap to the Nepali Congress party, but both fail to agree. Although the parties failed to agree, they plan to request President Dr Ram Baran Yadav to extend the deadline for forming consensus government according to Maoist and Congress sources. The president’s deadline expires tomorrow. UCPN-M Chairman Pushpa Kamal Dahal presented his party’s proposal to NC leaders at a meeting in Baneshwor today. NC leaders said first government leadership to Maoists under the rotation system was unacceptable as the party had not completely detached itself from combatants and weapons and this was impossible within the next few days. Maoist leaders, reiterated their stance that a Maoist-led government in the first

he United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Nepal says the authorities must redouble their efforts to uphold the rule of law and ensure victims’ access to justice following growing instances of attacks and threats on journalists. A statement issued by the

Nepali deposits in Swiss banks rise after two-year decline The amount of Nepali money in Swiss banks has once again risen after a twoyear decline. A country-by-country breakdown of accounts in “Banks of Switzerland 2010”

published by Swiss National Bank (SNB) reveals that Nepali assets were worth Swiss francs 97.148 million (Rs 8.95 billion), up from Swiss francs 68.885 million (Rs 6.353 billion) in 2009.



 

turn was imperative to implement the peace process. The proposal addressed peace process issues — integration modality, number, norms, rank determination and rehabilitation package — and presented a time-

bound implementation calendar. “Both parties claimed first government leadership for completing the peace process, but found no solution. The parties will again sit tomorrow,” said NC leader Arjun Narsingh KC.

UN concern over attacks T

Bill for Constituent Assembly’s threemonth extension

UN body said the OHCHR-N head, Jyoti Sanghera, will visit Biratnagar on 24 and August 25 “to recognise and support efforts by the authorities and civil society to protect and promote human rights.” “The brutal attacks and ongoing threats against journalists in the region and others raise

serious questions on enjoyment of freedom of expression and interference with the due process of law,” Sanghera said in the statement. “Everyone should show their full support for the rule of law as criminal cases proceed in response to recent attacks--including preventing new abuses.”

      

  

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     

Saarc international I Thursday 25 August 2011

WEEKLY REVIEW OF SRILANKA NEWS

President hands over 32 houses to war veterans presented to war veterans in the Kandy, Kurunegala, Matara, Hambanthota, Badulla and Monaragala districts under this programme.Deputy Speaker Chandima Weerakkodi, Ministers Piyasena Gamage and Gunaratne Weerakoon, Governor of Southern Province Kumari Balasuriya and Chief Minister Shan Wijayalal De Silva, and Defence Secretary Gotabhaya Rajapaksa also participated in the event. Sri Lanka President Mahinda Rajapaksa today handed over to war veterans 32 houses built in the Galle District under the 5th stage of the ‘Api Wenuven Api’ housing project that is being implemented throughout the country.The President symbolically presented a

house constructed at Kapuhenpola in Akmeemana of Galle District to Corporal Gunasekara of the 5th Gamunu Regiment at the ceremony held at Nandimithra Maha Vidyalaya of Kapuhenpola, Akmeemana. Already 119 houses have been

Opposition to take decision on MC nominations

The main opposition United National Party (UNP) has today decided to discuss the nominations

and the mayoral candidate for one of the key local government bodies, the Colombo Municipal Council (CMC) on Monday (22). UNP General Secretary Tissa Attanayake told ColomboPage that the party’s nominations board had met today to decide on the quota to be allocated to each electorate under the CMC. He said a final decision on the CMC nominations and the mayoral candidate was likely to be made on the 22nd.

UNP WC unconstitutional, reformists insist

Elections to 23 LG bodies on Oct. 15

Elections to the remaining 23 Local Government bodies will be held on Oct. 15. Elections Department said that the elections would be held to 16 Municipal Councils (Colombo, Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, Moratuwa, Sri Jayawardenepura, Negombo, Gampaha, Kurunegala, Kalmunai, Galle, Matara, Matale, Nuwara-Eliya, Badulla, Kandy, Anuradhapura and Ratnapura) one Urban Council (Kolonnawa) and five Pradeshiya Sabhas (Kotikawatte-Mulleriyawa, Kundasale, Gangawata Korale, Hambantota and Suriyawewa). Elections to 63 Local Government bodies were held on July 23.

Political parties preparing for another round of local elections

Political parties in Sri Lanka are busy preparing nominations lists for another round of elections to be held in October to elect 23 local government bodies including the Colombo Municipal Council. Nominations for the elections in 17 key municipal councils, one urban council and five Pradeshiya Sabhas opened on August 18 and will continue till August

25.Ruling party United People’s Freedom Alliance (UPFA) will finalize its nomination lists by Monday (22) General Secretary of the UPFA, Minister Susil Premajayantha said. The SLFP Nomination Board chaired by Ministers W. D. J. Seneviratne and Anura Priyadarshana Yapa is in the process of finalizing some of the council lists by Sunday.

‘UNHRC won’t take up Darusman report’

Sri Lanka would strongly oppose ongoing moves to take up the controversial ‘Darusman report’ at the forthcoming UN Human Rights Council sessions in Geneva, External Affairs Minister Prof. G. L. Peiris said. Taking up of such an unofficial document at the Geneva conference would be grossly

inappropriate, he said. The next UNHRC sessions are scheduled for Sept. 2011. Delivering the key note address at the inauguration of two-day Kotelawela Defence University symposium 2011, yesterday, Prof. Peiris said that Sri Lanka’s case couldn’t be different from any other country fighting terrorism.

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UNP reformists yesterday said the party leader and others were carrying out a government contract to ruin the country’s biggest political party. They said that they had not accepted a disciplinary inquiry against Colombo District MP Rosy Senanayake by the party’s unconstitutional Working Committee, which met on August

17 at Sirikotha. Denying UNP General Secretary Tissa Attanayake’s statement that the party would institute disciplinary action against any UNPer who held separate press conferences, the Ratnapura District MP said that the party’s Working Committee could not decide on any action because it was unconstitutional and a Court case was pending against it.

Saarc international I Thursday 25 August 2011

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Saarc international I Thursday 25 August 2011

BUSINESS

Total telecom Textile exports grow at 14.22% to $1.121 billion investment T to reach $2.4 billion by 2020 T otal telecommunication (telecom) investment in Pakistan will reach $2.4 billion by 2020, telecom sector revenues would cross Rs 620 billion by the same year and the number of mobile subscribers are expected to be around 161 million, approximately 89 percent of the total population. According to the “Vision 2020” document prepared by Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), owing to the continued trend towards mobile services, the fixed line subscribers would more or less maintain the 5 million average till 2020 while the broadband subscribers are expected to be 19.5 million. The PTA “Vision 2020” document released Monday, says that, during the next ten years, improved quality of telecom systems and services would become a critical determinant of competitiveness in information and communication technology (ICT). The growth and development of ICTs today has led to their wide diffusion and application, thus escalating their economic and social impact across the countries.

he textile exports during the first month of the current fiscal year (2011-12) were recorded at $1.121 billion, showing an increase of 14.22 percent over the exports of $982.007 million of the same month of the last fiscal year, Federal Bureau of Statistics (FBS) reported. The exports of textile group witnessed decrease of 15.26 percent when compared to the exports of $1.323 billion during June 2011, according to FBS

provisional figures.

The textile products contributed in positive growth of textile sector included raw cotton, exports of which increased from $1.026 million during July 2010 to $11.521 million during July 2011, showing an increase of 1022.90 percent. As compared to the raw cotton exports of $9.815 billion in June 2011, the exports of the commodity during July witnessed increase of 17.38 percent.

Foreign exchange reserves rise to $18.04bn Rupee ended lower against dollar

The foreign exchange reserves of Pakistan have surged to dollars 18.0423 billion, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has announced. It said that the compared to the previous week when forex reserves were 17.978 billion dollars, the reserves

again rose by a little 0.072 million dollar to 18.0423 billion dollar. “The rise in reserves is likely due to remittances following the Eidul-Fitr season, however, the fluctuations in reserves will continue,” said a senior banker from a private bank.

India aims to build 7 new ports to boost trade

KARACHI: Rupee ended at 86.64/70 to the dollar on Wesnesday , weaker than Tuesday’s close of 86.60/65, amid higher import payments, dealers said. The rupee fell to a record low of 86.83 this month but dealers said a further slide in the local unit is likely to be prevented by a rise in remittances from

overseas Pakistanis. According to the official data, remittances rose 38.57 percent to $1.1 billion in the first month of 2011/12 fiscal year, compared with $791.18 million in the same period last year. In the money market, overnight rates ended lower at between 10.75 percent and 11.0 percent, compared with the previous day’s.

India can grow by 9% through PPP: Pranab

ndia aims to construct seven new ports for 350 billion rupees ($7.6 billion) by 2017 to support the nation’s plan to more than triple merchandise exports. “The government has to lead the way in creating port capacity given the growth in trade,” Rakesh Srivastava, joint secretary at the Ministry of Shipping, said yesterday in a telephone interview in New Delhi.

“Private sector is welcome, but the government won’t give up its responsibility.” About twothirds of the funds for the new facilities will be raised from private sector, he said. APM Terminals, the containerterminal arm of A.P. MoellerMaersk A/S, and Dubai- based DP World Ltd. are among the companies that have invested in ports in India to benefit from a surge in trade.

India currently has 13 so-called major ports that are administered by the federal government. They together handled 561 million tons of cargo in the year ended in March 2010, according to official data. The government plans to boost the major ports’ annual capacity to 1.46 billion tons by March 2020 from 616.7 million tons as of March, 2010, according to the shipping ministry.

nion finance minister Pranab Mukherjee said India has the potential to achieve 9% growth, provided Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model was optimally utilised. “There is no reason why we cannot achieve a 9% growth rate. Half of the population is in the 20s, their productivity and employability can be increased drastically. With effective use of PPP, we can achieve the desired level of growth,” Mukherjee said at an award function in Kolkata on Saturday night.” We have the potential of achieving more if both inside and outside stakeholders work with common commitment,” he added. The finance minister expressed satisfaction over the performance of the economy in the aftermath of the global

meltdown.”The Indian economy recorded just a brief pause during the global economic meltdown and since then it has recorded a steady growth of 6%.” Mukherjee said with India slated to be one of the top three economies in the next decade, huge infrastructural investment will be made.”As per the recommendation of the Planning Commission, around $1 trillion would be invested in infrastructure which in turn will boost the economy.” He also expressed happiness over the performance of Indian exports.”The Indian export is steadily climbing the value chart. There is diversification of not only products but also markets. In 2010-11, our export grew by 45%.”He assured the export community that the government was aware of their problems and working for their redressal.

Saarc international I Thursday 25 August 2011

Karachi: Killing fields MQM is responsible for Karachi killings ? British government should act.

After almost two months of separation from the government, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) is likely to rejoin the cabinet on both provincial and federal levels. ince then MQM is part of the Federal government according to common perception that MQM can’t stay in opposition as its history reflects. Since its inception in 1986, MQM joined every government that came into power whether civil or military. It is totally a different story that MQM carried on the role of opposition even in the government. It is general knowledge in Karachi and in fact throughout Pakistan that MQM is involved in the bloodshed

and target killings in Karachi going on for three years now. But PPP Co-chairperson Mr. Zardari for the sake of his Federal government is not willing to stop bloodshed in Pakistan biggest city. And again as MQM is about to join the Government the wave of ethnic violence and bloodshed that has engulfed Karachi since August 17 has so far claimed 87 lives in the past five days an d there is no one to take responsibility. The military leadership offered its help to bring peace back in Karachi asserting that it will not interfere in the matter unless the government asks for it. The violence in Karachi has crossed all bounds. On August 21, there were

36 more deaths in various parts of the doomed city while, in Korangi, the police itself came under fire from a dozen motorbike-riders who killed four policemen and injured 25. The police itself is now being ambushed with impunity and those doing the evil deed have yet to be even formally identified. The figures compiled by the police suggested that 73 people had been killed in four days of violence that triggered on Wednesday evening. “On Aug 17, a total of 17 people were killed in different incidents,” said an official. “On Aug 18, some 29 killings were reported while 22 people met the same fate on Aug 19 and five on Aug 20. The victims included a teenage girl and two

Saarc international I Thursday 25 August 2011

minor boys. The number of people wounded is over 70. On an average, Karachi witnesses close to 800 killings per year, mainly the result of ethnic/political violence. But this year, the city has been extremely violent -- even by Karachi standards. More than 800 people have lost their lives till the first week of August. Of this, nearly 500 people lost their lives in what is termed as targeted killings. In July alone, more than 300 people were killed. Of these, 58 people were killed in just five days. Of these, 26 killings took place in just 24 hours. If one includes the numbers of those dead independent of the political/ethnic reasons, the killings almost touch the 1200 mark. Apart from the human losses, the state also had to bear the economic fallouts. The government has not yet made up its mind about Army deployment in the city. Even if the Army is called in, it will still be a tough situation to control the violence as people of all ethnicities are involved, and their respective political parties will speak

up each time anyone gets arrested. Religious scholars from different schools of thought have demanded army to take control in Karachi and restore peace in the city. Given this situation of total helplessness, the demand for ‘army action’ seems to be gaining ground. Even the MQM have also recently called for army intervention. The stakeholders agreed in principle on need of search operation in Karachi to flesh out weapon caches but MQM always created hurdles, said the sources. MQM leader Altaf troubled at British interest in MQM activities he complained to Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari that Pakistani intelligence agencies working under Federal Interior Minister had sent “misleading” reports on MQM to British government. Sources say Altaf Hussain lashed at Pakistani intelligence after British official ‘informally’ questioned him in connection with recent law and order situation in Karachi and activities of MQM workers. British under-secretary for Commonwealth Affair Alistair Burt had earlier this month

issued a stern “warning” shortly after he had spoken with MQM nominated Governor Sindh Dr. Ishrat ul Ebad on violence in Karachi. Our sources claim information on MQM was provided to Britain by a Federal Minister. According to Sources, Britain was keeping a tab on MQM workers, travelling between New Delhi, Singapore and South Africa. Use of South Africa based terrorists in recent Karachi violence had been widely reported and former Sindh Interior Minister Zulfikar Mirza discussed it later during his exchange with reporters. Sources claim British government has got hold of evidence, including confessional statements of MQM terrorists arrested in Pakistan and telephone records. They said Altaf Hussain’s alarm stemmed from British interest in MQM activities but he tried to give it political tinge by naming intelligence agencies under PPP led government.President Zardari has assured Altaf Hussain that his government did not sent any report to British government but also

promised an inquiry into the issue, a private run TV channel reported. President Zardari is more concern about his government but in Karachi Humanity is at stake We ask British Prime minister to intervene and take action as Terror call is from London. The sad truth is that the Pakistan government has no workable plan to control the violence in Karachi; its inability stemming as much from lack of comprehension of the situation as from the fact that almost all political outfits in Karachi have their armtwisting wings, which are fielded unto the street as a counter-force if and when required to show party muscle. It is also a fact that various gangs and mafias also enjoy political patronage. Given the colossal failure of the government to restore calm and peace in Karachi and given the political stakeholders’ inability to divest themselves of their ‘militias’, an end to the recurrent violence doesn’t seem to be an achievable goal anytime soon. We are sinking deeper in chaos and anarchy with every passing day.

South Asia Tribune I Thursday 25 August 2011

BUSINESS

India set for record gold imports

he last time gold rose over 14% in a month was in 1999. In the domestic market, gold scaled a new high of over Rs 28,150 per 10 gm in futures market, while in global markets it hit a record $1,877 an ounce last Friday. Notwithstanding skyrocketing gold prices, its imports are likely to cross the 1,000-tonne mark this year on robust investment demand, say analysts. Since the US sovereign debt downgrade and the new threats emanating from eurozone economies, gold has rallied 14% this month alone, as investors shunned stocks and flocked to the yellow metal as a safe haven. The last time gold rose over 14% in a month was in 1999. In the domestic market, gold scaled a new high of over Rs 28,150 per 10 gm in futures market, while in global markets it hit a record $1,877 an ounce last Friday. In the domestic market, on that

Kumar said. The country’s total gold ETFs investment has reached 15 tonne, which is expected to double in a year, Kumar said. However, the jewellery demand is likely to decline due to rise in recycled gold in the market, he said. India, the largest consumer of the yellow metal, has imported 553 tonnes during the first six months of this year, WGC said.

day gold rose as much as Rs 1,310, the highest ever single day gain, they said. “With rising prices,

investment demand is likely to grow, especially in the gold ETFs (exchange traded funds) and

coins, in expectation of better returns,” brokerage firm Maya Iron Ores Vice-Chairman Praveen

Bangladesh Bollywood biggies Maruti Suzuki launches new Swift More Pvt banks put money in after Eid AL MPs brick and mortar main contenders hey earn hundreds of crores

through movies, endorsements and stage shows. So when it comes to parking their stash, Bollywood biggies prefer to lean on, who else, but Mumbai’s builders.

Property market and film industry sources said leading celebrities invest in residential and commercial projects or buy sprawling penthouses, row houses and bungalows for personal use. The preferred locations are in the suburb between Bandra and Andheri. TOI has learned that investments can range from Rs 5 crore to upwards of Rs 50 crore each. Some of the Bollywood ‘badshahs’ are believed to have pumped in mega-bucks to purchase bungalow plots or booked a slew of duplex apartments in high-end towers. Builders who spoke to TOI said most stars insist on making “full cheque payment”. A plush home in an upmarket residential enclave is the ultimate style statement. Recently, former Miss Universe-turned actor Lara Dutta and her beau, tennis player Mahesh Bhupathi, closed a Rs 14 crore-deal for a 2,000 sq ft row house on Pali Hill. The property- called Shailja - comes with a

uilt on an entirely new platform, MSIL’s popular hatchback offers improved fuel efficiency and over 140 new features, many for the first time ever in an entry-level variant, claims the company. Further intensifying the price-war in the premium hatchback segment, Maruti Suzuki India Ltd. (MSIL) on Wednesday launched the new version of Swift, priced between

Rs.4.22 lakh and Rs.5.53 lakh for the petrol versions and Rs.5.17 lakh and Rs.6.38-lakh for the diesel variants. Built on an entirely new platform, MSIL’s popular hatchback offers improved fuel efficiency and over 140 new features, many for the first time ever in an entry-level variant, claims the company. MSIL, which sold over six lakh units of Swift since it was launched in 2005, has invested over Rs.550

crore in the project. Interestingly, new weight reduction techniques have helped MSIL engineers offers more mileage — 6 per cent more in diesel (22.9 km a litre) and 4 per cent more in the petrol version (18.6 km a litre). The carmaker has also introduced the VVT engine technology in all petrol variants that gives 87 PS of power, while the DDiS diesel engine delivers 75 PS of power.

Stocks witness low turnover

hare prices at the country’s premier bourse -- Dhaka StockExchange (DSE) -- dropped for the second consecutive day on Tuesday. The DSE general index lost 60.02 points or 0.97 percent toclose at

6112.27 points at the end of the day’s three-hour session. The key index lost 40.56 points or 0.65 percent on theopening day of the week and trading wasclosed on Monday due to National Mourning Day.

Of the 255 issues traded on Tuesday, only 22 advanced, 224lost and nine remained unchanged. The turnover stood at Tk 3.54 billion, which was Tk 4.39billion on Sunday and Tk 5.35 billion on Thursday.

lthough the central bank is anautonomous body, it has finally surrendered to the political pressure byagreeing to give permission to more private banks after Eid. Although the central bank is anautonomous body, it has finally surrendered to the political pressure byagreeing to give permission to more private banks after Eid. It is also planning to issueguidelines for new banking licences by this time, official sources said. The bank earlier objected to suchmove on the ground that Bangladesh economy does not permit more private bankswhen almost half of the 30 private banks are grasping for survival. “We’re going to invite applicationsfrom the interested entrepreneurs for licence to establish new banks after Eidvacation,” a high official of Bangladesh Bank (BB) told The New Nation onSaturday. He said, “We have taken thedecision in line with the finance ministry’s move for launching new commercialbanks in the country.” The Ministry of Finance in aletter has given go ahead signal for issuing fresh licences and guidelines fornew banks and directed concerned officials of Bangladesh Bank (BB) to act inthis regard.

South Asia Tribune I Thursday 25 August 2011

COMMENT

Pakistan Crisis: A wake up call Dr Tahir Saeed

Tribune Comment

here appears no doubt in the fact that in every country’s life, a time comes when its existence is challenged by some form or shape of internal and external threats. While some nations develop their very own internal mechanisms to thwart these challenges and heroically confront these crises. And for whatever reasons some countries somehow fail to deal with the same crises and resultantly meet with disastrous ends and even reconstitution of new boundaries as witnessed in the case of USSR, Eastern Europe, etc. There are almost 34 new countries which emerged on the world map by this disintegration process since 1990. These countries failed to survive not only because of their ill politico-socio-economic structures but mainly because of the alienation of their people and lack of faith in the leadership. Hence, this ultimate disintegration process has informed us about the vital factor which can unite people and a country is the people’s trust and confidence in the leadership to meet the challenges posed. And

it is also imperative that the leader should be perceived as somebody who could stand by the people of his country through thick and thin and stay with them in times of need. The leader’s job is not only to instil and develop this faith of ‘united we stand and divide we fall’ but also to provide them with a sense of direction that can keep them united. It carries no meaning, whatsoever, if there is no purpose behind this unity. Where does Pakistan stand on this cross road? Pakistan is probably facing the worst crisis in its history. Never in her history, were people so disillusioned, disenchanted and divided. Is she going to emerge successfully out of this crisis is the main question on many people’s mind. No patriot, including myself, would ever even think of something bad happening to our beloved country; but I sigh and ponder that there is a difference between reality and fantasy. Of course we all wish and pray for a prosperous and happy Pakistan, but our actions, especially of those who are ruling this country for the last 60 years, are altogether contradictory to our wishes, and are leading us to the path ending in disaster and nothing but DISASTER. At present Pakistan seems to be infested with deep rooted problems, having had grave consequences. These problems are the culmination of our long history of adopting the rule of procrastination, in contrast to tackling the problems heads on.

These delaying tactics and passing the buck to others, paved the way for much larger than anticipated crisis. If we briefly glance through the problems it would indicate that the country is ravaged by lawlessness, corruption, nepotism and political uncertainty. On top of all, feelings of estrangement are at its peak between different provinces, especially Baluchis and Pathans. Although, Pathan was solaced to an extent by accepting their long standing demand of renaming their province as Khyber Pukhtunkhwa. However, genocide of pathans on both sides of the border and target killings in Karachi is becoming serious issues within Pushtun community. Baluchi nationalist leaders, who have huge following, in Baluchistan, are alienated to an extent that they are in favour of an armed struggle in favour of separation. These Baluchi Nationalist leaders have no inhibition in openly expressing their discontentment with the present set up and about their armed struggle against Pakistan. However, the dilemma is that no serious efforts, on the part of government, are being extended to listen to their grievances. The judicial system is almost crippled to its lowest ebb, with the susidiary judicial system infested with corruption, with rich going scot free using either their influence or money, and those with no support remain lavished in jails. And by no means there is a trust in the upper

judicial courts who has lost its credentials, even after the historic struggle by the masses, as some of its recent decisions were perceived to be politically motivated. The military is another important institution, which is not only responsible for all the mess this country is in, but, also it is so sad to find that those at the helm of affairs in this institution have not learned from history. The top generals, have repeatedly violated the constitution as they consider themselves holier than the most holy and hence above law. No one can dare to object to their misdeeds, especially the rulers who themselves are on political ventilators. A core commander meeting is sometimes enough to produce political ripples within the ruling class. Our country is dismembered due to their stubborn attitude and their love for misadventures as they consider gun power the only way to resolve conflicts. They are mainly responsible for creating a sense of alienation among Baluchi people, that was quite tactfully exploited by the Baluchi nationalists in their favour The political parties, in the name of reconciliation, are exploiting each other to the maximum at the cost of destroying the very foundation of the country. MQM is the real beneficiary of this reconciliation process. Their leader, who is still remains at large, since we know many cases, including murder, are pending against him in

the court. As a reward, for his crimes, his nominees are rewarded with all the perks and privileges using the exchequer relentlessly, that also includes governorship and minster ship. No one in the judiciary has the courage to look into their affairs. PML-Q, ANP, JUI, are parties of opportunists whose main aim is to remain in power to accumulate more wealth. The PML-N is mainly focused on winning the next elections and which they may probably, so the status quo will persist. Whereas JI seems to be replaced by the modern looking Imran Khan who would also prove disastrous to the country having a soft corner and lenient attitude towards those with extreme views. Despite this grim picture, our masses are very resilient and determined. They have come across many challenges such as the natural disasters and have faced them with tremendous courage. However, this time the onus is on the rulers as they need to put their priorities right. They have to take some strong decisions. They have to abandon political black mailers and stop corrupt practices. And important thing is that they have to gear themselves towards concerted efforts to bring Baluchi nationals into mainstream politics. Last but not least, the road to democracy should continue as this is the beginning, and all usurpers MUST be condemned in all quarters and at all levels.

Pakistan cricket coach Younis resigns P

akistan cricket coach Waqar Younis resigned Saturday, citing personal reasons, in the latest setback to hit the troubled team that has been riven by infighting and corruption scandals. “I have tendered my resignation to the Board last week and the tour to Zimbabwe will be my last,” Waqar Younis, at the helm for less than 18 months, told a press conference ahead of this month’s tour to the African country. The 39-year-old former fast bowler took over as coach in March 2010, but has since faced controversies including the spotfixing scandal that led to lengthy bans for three cricketers, dissent from players, and differences with former one-day captain Shahid Afridi. “I have taken this decision on personal grounds, including medical grounds, and have no differences with anyone. My resignation has been accepted by the

(Pakistan Cricket) Board,” said Waqar. Pakistan plays one practice game, one Test, three one-day internationals and two Twenty20 matches on the tour of Zimbabwe, which starts on August 28. Waqar’s differences with Afridi surfaced

during Pakistan’s tour of the West Indies in May this year, after which manager Intikhab Alam blamed both of them for creating problems within the team. Afridi retired from international cricket after being dumped as one-day captain in June, saying he will not return as long as Ijaz Butt remains the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Waqar is coach. Waqar was also reportedly unhappy with chief selector Mohsin Khan. However, the former fast bowler said Saturday that he had no complaints. “Had everything in my personal life -- that is, my wife’s health and my own -- been all right, I would not have taken this decision. But I do not want to fail to do the job justice because of the personal problems on my mind,” said Waqar. Waqar, under whom Pakistan qualified

for the semi-final of the World Cup in March this year before losing to eventual champions India, called his time a the helm a “roller coaster”. “It was a roller coaster for me, with a lot of controversies including the spot-fixing scandal, but I am proud of the fact that all these young boys have carried on the good work despite these problems,” said Waqar. His first two Test series as coach -against Australia and England, both played in England last year -- saw Test captain Salman Butt and key pacemen Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Aamer caught up in the spot-fixing scandal. The corruption claims over the Test against England at Lord’s in August resulted in lengthy bans for Butt, Asif and Aamer, and the trio also faces criminal proceedings in England.

South Asia Tribune I Thursday 25 August 2011

Riots not symptom of country’s moral decline : Tony Blair

Tony Blair has accused David Cameron, Ed Miliband and his successor as Labour prime minister, Gordon Brown, of not properly understanding and addressing the underlying causes of this summer’s riots. Writing in The Observer, former prime minister Mr Blair said suggestions that what happened shows Britain is in moral decline are nonsense. “The big cause is the group of alienated, disaffected youth who are outside the social mainstream and who live in a culture at odds with any canons of proper behaviour,” he claimed. “The truth is that many of these people are from families that are profoundly dysfunctional, operating on completely different terms from the rest of society, either middle class or poor. “This is a phenomenon of the late

20th century. You find it in virtually every developed nation.” For which reason, he added, suggesting Britain has lost its way morally will depress people unnecessarily, trash our reputation abroad and fail to deal with the problem in the only way that works. Mr Cameron has promised a fightback against “the wrong-headed ideas, bureaucratic nonsense and destructive culture” which led to the current problems. He writes in The Sunday Express: “There are deep problems in our society that have been growing for a long time: a decline in responsibility, a rise in selfishness, a growing sense that individual rights come before anything else. “The British people have fought and died for people’s rights to freedom and dignity but they did not fight so that people did not have to take full responsibility for their actions.” In a thinly veiled attack on Mr Cameron’s critique, Mr Blair said: “We are in danger of the wrong analysis leading to the wrong diagnosis, leading to the wrong prescription.” But Mr Blair also said the left places too much emphasis on social deprivation as the prime cause of the rioting. Violence broke out in cities across the UK two weeks ago, with the Metropolitan Police confirming

some 3,000 offences had been recorded in relation to the riots in the capital alone. The correct response, he contended, is to intervene family by family, and to reform criminal justice around antisocial behaviour, organised crime, persistent offenders and gangs. This formula has much in common with the approach now advocated by the Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith. Mr Blair said the Labour government was working on it towards the end of his time in office. But, in a dig at Mr Brown, Mr Blair maintains that after he left the agenda lost momentum.

He also admitted that, after the murder of two-year-old Jamie Bulger in 1993, he had made a similar case to that being advanced by many today about moral breakdown in Britain. But that speech, he said, was “good politics but bad policy”. David Cameron was today warned by senior Liberal Democrats

not to try to “water down” Britain’s commitment to human rights in the wake of the riots. But Mr Cameron appears to have already discovered the problem, and its solution. The prime minister pledged to fightback against ‘the wrong-headed ideas, bureaucratic nonsense and destructive culture’ which had led to the current problems, including the ‘twisting and misrepresenting of human rights’. Writing in the Sunday Express, he said: ‘There are deep problems in our society that have been growing for a long time: a decline in responsibility, a rise in selfishness, a growing sense that individual rights come before anything else.’ He said people have fought and died for rights to freedom and dignity but they did not fight so that people shunned personal responsibility. He wrote: ‘So though it won’t be easy, though it will mean taking on parts of the establishment, I am determined we get a grip on the misrepresentation of human rights.’ However former Lib Dem leader Sir Menzies Campbell made clear he faced a fight with his coalition partners if he tried to tamper with the principles of the Human Rights Act which enshrines the European Convention on Human Rights in UK law. “The European Convention on Human Rights was one of the most

important contributions which Britain made to post-War Europe. It should lie right at the very heart of our constitutional circumstances,” Sir Menzies told BBC News. “My view is that the ECHR is a fundamental right and that is something we should not depart from. “I do not want in any sense Britain’s commitment to the whole notion of human rights to be watered down.” The spat once again highlighted the tensions within the coalition as the autumn party conference season approaches, with many Tories

vehemently opposed to the Human Rights Act which they would like to see repealed. The Prime Minister insisted that his commitment to tackling the ‘greed and thuggery’ seen during the riots would be backed up by ‘the full force of the law’. He insisted a stronger police presence was needed to keep streets safe and deter crime and catching criminals instead of spending their time filling in exhaustive forms or trying to reach on phoney targets.

Putting London back in business

Ken Livingstone set out on Friday five measures he believes need to be adopted to help London’s small businesses affected by recent riots. 1. Convene a Mayor’s Business Taskforce - Ken would invite business representatives from London First, London Chamber of Commerce and Industry, London CBI and the Federation of Small Businesses, British Retail Consortium, Business in the Community and other significant individual businesses to come together with local council leaders, London-wide grant making funds such as the Capital Community Foundation “We Love London Fund” and senior representatives from the Mayor’s team. 2. Provide real financial help now – for everyone affected - The Government’s promised funding will help the town centres – although it is a small amount compared to the damage suffered and the long term consequences of the riots. Ken proposes that the business rates relief, Tax and VAT payment announced for those businesses most badly affected should be applied to all shops and premises in the affected neighbourhoods who have suffered a direct or indirect impact. 3. Ensure there Fast Track Planning for Reconstruction - The Government announced that planning rules will

be eased to help businesses put in extra security measures like security shutters. However there has been no provision made for businesses who want to rebuild after serious damage. 4. Use the assets and buying power of the Greater London Authority (GLA) -

now, along with railway arches and empty office space, any all of which might be useful to those businesses struggling to get back to work. If required, the Mayor’s Taskforce could act as a clearing house for premises offered by local authorities or by

There are a dozen empty shops being advertised on the TfL website right

businesses. 5. Restore London and Partners

campaign and funding - This autumn, London’s promotional agency London and Partners is to run an international campaign to promote tourism and inward investment in London. This is now a crucial tool to re-establish London’s international position in the run-up to the 2012 Olympics. Ken Livingstone calls upon the Government to restore London and partners’ funding – cut this year from £25m to £14m – in order to properly fund this ongoing promotional activity. Ken said: “Last week’s riots were a tragedy for London on so many levels. For small business owners who have seen their shops and premises looted, damaged or even destroyed, it was heartbreaking. My message to London’s shop owners and businesses affected by the riots is this – I am on your side and all of London stands

behind you. ‘I have been deeply impressed to see how ordinary Londoners have come together to support their local business people by cleaning up the mess, raising money for emergency help and going back to the high street to put these shops back in business. It is those images of Londoners with brooms and bringing cakes to our town centres which will resonate around the world and show the true spirit of London.” ‘The funding announcements by David Cameron and Boris Johnson are a start but much more needs to be done. The Government’s decision last Thursday to allow people to claim under the Riot Damages Act is something which I called for and needs to be the first or a series of measures to help people. However, a lot of the immediate help and ideas are coming from the business sector and voluntary sector and I think it is the job of the Mayor to bring people together to make sure these efforts are coordinated. ‘I have been waiting for Boris Johnson to set out his big plan to get London back in business – and frankly I haven’t seen much yet. I call on Boris Johnson to show some leadership and take these up. ‘Let’s get London back in business.

South Asia Tribune I Thursday 25 August 2011

SPORTS

Dhoni failed to inspire India, Says Wasim Akram F

ormer Pakistan skipper Wasim Akram found Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s demeanour hardly inspiring during the recently-concluded Test series and said the visitors 0-4 drubbing against England should act as an “eye-opener” for the Indian skipper. Akram felt that Dhoni’s poor batting show against a strong England bowling attack also played a major role in India suffering their worst Test series defeat in the country since a 5-0 loss in 1959. India slumped to an innings and eight

runs defeat in the fourth and final cricket Test at The Oval to give England a resounding 4-0 series win on Monday. “His batting form is of great concern. In this series Dhoni repeatedly got out in the slips region. He may have got a couple of 70-plus scores in the third Test at Edgbaston, but what good are these runs when your opponent has amassed a 700plus score?” Akram stated. Dhoni was out for three in the second innings on the fifth day when he slashed at a wide delivery from Stuart Broad and was

caught at second slip. Akram said Dhoni’s body language was not motivating enough and the captain and coach need to communicate with the team more often to lift their morale. “I feel Dhoni needs to be even more involved in the game. New coach Duncan Fletcher is not a magician and will take time to settle down,” he said. Akram pointed out that no one had any idea in the Indian camp about what was going on. He stated that Dhoni did not look too involved with on-field proceedings. “I know this has been his style, but when

Pakistan cricket team leave for Zimbabwe

akistan leave for Zimbabwe under the captainship of Misbah Ulhaq from Lahore via Abu Dhabi. National teams will play one test match, three one day international matches and two 2020 matches. Cricketers will need the transit visa for South Africa, all the players have got their visas except former captain Shoaib Malik. Shoaib Malik has applied for visa if he got visa he would leave along with the team otherwise he will leave three days after the departure of the team. Pakistan’s young team is still reeling from the betting scandal.

your team is getting thrashed, ‘Captain Cool’ can’t afford to freeze!” “At times, you have to change your style to get the best out of your players. This result should be eye-opener for Dhoni,” added Akram. In spite of the criticism, Akram backed Dhoni and said removing him is not a quick-fix solution. “Our cricketing culture in the sub-continent doesn’t support a losing captain, but here is where we need to back Dhoni. He can surely prove the critics wrong in the ODI series.”

India may lose Sehwag, Gambhir for England ODIs

ndia’s woes on the disastrous tour of England worsened on Monday with reports that Virender Sehwag and Gautam Gambhir may skip the limited-overs leg due to injuries. Sehwag has not yet recovered fully after undergoing shoulder surgery in May, which forced him to miss the tour of the West Indies and the first two Tests of the ongoing series, reports said. The aggressive opener called for the physiotherapist while batting on Sunday, apparently to tend to a sore shoulder. Gambhir suffered a mild concussion while fielding on Saturday and even though scans did not reveal a major injury, the lefthander was in discomfort while batting. The NDTV news channel reported from London that the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) was expected to announce replacements for the duo later this week.

South Asia Tribune I Thursday 25 August 2011

Bollywood film banned amid caste tension fears

STAR-STUDDED Bollywood film about India’s caste system was banned in three Indian states ahead of its release yesterday, with angry lower caste groups arguing it reinforces social prejudices against them. The row suggests that caste - the Hindu custom dividing people in a strict social hierarchy based traditionally on family livelihood and ethnicity - remains a deeply sensitive subject in modern India, despite government efforts to eradicate it. least three states banned Aarakshan from opening over fears it could stir up caste tensions. Director Prakash Jha filed an appeal to the Supreme Court to overturn the bans. The film’s stars were given police bodyguards yesterday, and police guarded theatres that did show the film. Its title means “reservation,” a reference to affirmative action quotas for millions of India’s “untouchables”, known as dalits, in jobs and education. The film’s star, actor Amitabh Bachchan, plays the head of a college pushed out amid tensions over quotas. On his Twitter account he wrote: “Have cried at our helplessness in not making people understand that this art needs to be seen not banned!” Lead actors including action hero Saif Ali Khan and Bollywood starlet Deepika Padukone have

traveled the country to promote its release. Mr Bachchan quoted his character in the film saying: “Two Indias reside in this country… and in truth, if we have to see any progress in our society, then the distance between these two

Indias must be erased.” Story: Amitabh Bachchan, a principal of a premier college in Bhopal, is forced to resign from his post after he makes a controversial

statement about India’s reservation policy. Having alienated himself from his well-wishers and students, which includes his dalit protegee, Saif Ali Khan, he tries to rebuild life again. More importantly, he tries to save the Indian education system from unscrupulous sharks like Manoj Bajpayee who want to totally commercialise it and convert it into India’s largest money-making enterprise, courtesy private coaching centres, capitation fee etc. Movie Review: Filmmaker Prakash Jha is a breed apart. Beginning as a premier proponent of India’s parallel cinema movement in the 1970s1980s, he never chose to lose his moorings. Instead, he opted to increase the contours of his canvas by opting for a kind of cinema that combined art with mainstream, meaning with masala. Hence the importance of films like Gangajal, Apharan, Rajneeti, where you will manage to focus on some of India’s burning issues, without getting bored to death. Chhagan Bhujbal, Mayawati , Lalu Prasad Yadav , and many other politicians in India [ should really calm down. Prakash Jha’s Aarakshan is definitely not against the current reservation system that benefits India’s so-

called backward castes. Rather Jha -- in a poor cinematic judgment has made a film which could be referred to as pro-Dalits and other backwards castes. I wish people would see Aarakshan and instead object to Jha’s vision, the execution of his muddled script, which half way through forgets its purpose, and varying degrees of unimpressive performances. Yes, Jha tries to highlight the complicated caste-based reservation system, attempting to look at the situation from all angles. But that is only until the first half of the film. After intermission, Aarakshan is a completely different film -- essentially an argument against the expensive private tutoring schools, reflected by the very obvious good (represented by Amitabh Bachchan’s character Prabhakar Anand) and the equally obvious evil (represented by Manoj Bajpayee’s Mithilesh Singh). Jha -- who takes up social issues and gives a controversial flare to his films, is at his most confused self in presenting Aarakshan to us. Perhaps the issue of caste-based reservation is too complicated and yet has the potential of flaring up (as it has happened before the release of the film) and so he simplifies it in a paint-by-

performance in Mohabattein) of a top private college in Bhopal -- Shankuntala Takaral College, named after its founder, a smiling Hema Malini in giant framed pictures, who is MIA for the past 32 years. The college is not bound by the Supreme Court mandated reservation system, but Anand is a good intentioned man, who for all the right reasons cares for his students and wants to give them best opportunities. He pays fees for students who are broke, signs bank loans for those in need and believes in the goodness of mankind. But do not call him a casteist, because that will make him very mad! The mankind in Anand’s world is led by Saif Ali Khan’s [ Images ] Deepak Kumar, a Dalit, brought up by his mother, who irons people’s clothes and Prateik’s Sushant Seth, who is from the high caste family, and the son of one of the college’s trustees. There is Anand’s daughter, Poorbi (Deepika Padukone [ Images ]), who is having a relationship with Deepak, although she does not mind Sushant’s occasional friendly flirtations. And there are many, many extras, who -- as in other Jha films, stand facing the camera, equidistant from each, looking serious and giving the depth and weight of support for the film’s protagonist, in this case Anand.

number style until he runs out of ideas. Aarakshan’s politics is not problematic. But it fails to be an issue-based film with a message. It is disappointing and a huge let down if in case the viewer is expecting an engaging conversation and a perspective on India’s reservation system. Bachchan’s Anand is an idealist principal (so much like his other bearded principal

Like Jha’s previous films there are many other characters -- some developed better than others. But in terms of screen time -- Bajpayee’s Singh is only second to Anand. But just as much as Anand is principled and honest, Singh is corrupt, a liar and a cheat. If you cannot tell that from the Continued on page 31

South Asia Tribune I Thursday 25 August 2011

SHOWBIZ

Bollywood film banned amid caste tension fears first time Singh speaks a dialogue, then you just have to look at the awful wig that Bajpayee wears -- jet black hair, with curls falling on one side of his forehead, a small streak of white hair in the middle, very much like what Indira Gandhi must have shown when she initially started graying. Suffice is to say that Anand’s principled positions and his support for the reservation system will lead to his downfall -- although temporarily, since it is a Bollywood film where good people always win in the end. He will lose all of his supporters, but they will come back and stand by his side in his good fight, also because it is a Bollywood film. And the mean and evil people will lose in the end -- yes, just because it is a Bollywood film.

<< Continued from page 30 A note about the evil people. Jha makes them look like bad caricatures, and they all belong to the upper castes. If only Mayawati, Bhujbal and Yadav would realize this point. These upper caste people are so evil that Jha even has them drink red wine out of proper glasses underlining the message that they are western, unIndian, and debased! Aarakshan is purely Bachchan’s film and the superstar performs ably, never surprising us beyond what he is done before, but keeping us engaged with his deep voice, diction, stern look, and at times caring smile. Khan looks earnest

with his moustache. He is almost believable as Kumar, but never strong enough. Padukone looks pretty, but she cannot carry the serious, intense moments. Prateik is a disappointment. The young actor was terrific in Kiran Rao’s Dhobi Ghat, but here he shows his limitations and inability to perform a role that requires greater character depth. And Bajpayee -- one of the finest actors in the Hindi cinema, is over-the-top and plain awful in Aarakshan. The audience will have to wait until Bajpayee’s next film -- Bedabrata Pain’s Chittagong, to once again see how brilliant an actor he is and can be.

Malini does make a brief appearance at the end of the film. Her gray hair (perhaps a wig) makes her look stunningly beautiful and that certainly is the best moment in the film. I do not know why Jha made Aarakshan. But I wish a better director would make a film that questions why India’s students have to wake up at 5 am to prepare for their examinations. Why is it that every student in Aarakshan takes prep classes -- additional tutorials over and beyond what they learn in schools? There is something seriously wrong with India’s education system and Aarakshan unwittingly points to that problem. And that is its only contribution to any debate in India.

Rahman joins with Jagger to create “Miracle Worker” M

usical maestro AR Rahman has joined forces with rock legend Mick Jagger and other musical heavyweights Joss Stone, Damian Marley and Dave Stewart, to create a band that truly lives up to its name - SuperHeavy! This diverse and eclectic line up who share eleven Grammy Awards between them, have been recording together in various studios around the world, with the majority of the tracks on the project laid down over three weeks in Los Angeles earlier this year. The album will be unveiled in September and tracks include the first single ‘Miracle Worker’, plus ‘Satyameva Jayanate’, ‘Energy’, ‘Maya,’ and ‘SuperHeavy’ amongst others. A distinctive collaboration which perfectly encapsulates each individual’s own talent and style – from the Caribbean inspired reggae beats of Damian Marley, the harmonious soul of Joss Stone, the swagger of Mick Jagger’s vocals, to the Indian-influenced production of A.R. Rahman and Dave Stewart’s solid guitar keeping the song on track, ‘Miracle Worker’ is a true example of the sound of SuperHeavy.

Book Review

Out now! George Galloway’s new book, “Open Season: The Neil Lennon Story”by George Galloway

SuperHeavy came together after Jagger and Stewart considered what a band comprising of musicians from different genres would sound like. Jagger explains, “Dave really wanted to make a record with a different group of musicians, in other words, with different backgrounds of music. Instead of everyone being a rock musician, or basically a blues musician, or some other genre, he wanted to get as

many genres together that would fit. I said it sounds like a good idea, I never thought it would actually happen.” Recording in LA meant the band’s path crossed with legendary Indian composer A.R. Rahman, in the City of Angels fresh from his Slumdog Millionaire Oscar glory. Jagger explains, “We didn’t know what kind of music we’d make, we didn’t know if it would be any good, but we hoped we’d have fun.” They were thrilled

to have Rahman on board, Stewart says, “He brings so much musical knowledge, amazing musicianship, melody and singing power from a different culture.” Said Rahman, “The first day I was in a daze thinking, ‘What am I doing? What’s my role?’ and then slowly we started writing with each other, and it was great. It took me way back to my high school days when I was playing in a rock band, but this one was a real one!”

pen Season: The Neil Lennon Story by George Galloway explores the history of Scotland’s shame, anti-Irish Catholic racism and bigotry, and the culpability of the Scottish establishment in attempting to sweep it under the carpet. Sparing no reputation, no hallowed institution, Galloway holds a mirror up to the political cowardice, rank opportunism and prejudice that is every bit as entrenched in Scotland’s culture today as it was over 100 years ago. Galloway’s reputation for saying what needs to be said has never been more deserved. Open Season is required reading by everyone with an interest in knowing what happened last season and why.

South Asia Tribune I Thursday 25 August 2011

Sports

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he football match between Pakistan and India to be held on 3rd September in England would be dedicated to three Pakistani nationals

killed in Birmingham riots. Pakistan Football Federation and All India Football Federation have decided to dedicate the football match of Pakistan verses India to be held on 3rd September in England, to three Pakistani nationals Shehzad Ali, Haroon Jehan and Abdul Ghafoor who were killed in London riots. The families of the ill-fated killed persons have been invited ton Durbi football club Bright Park, England to watch the football match while silence for one minute would be observed in this connection and both teams would play match with black stripes tied on their hands.

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