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ASSENG/2015/64205
PAGE 12
PAGE 11 Vol. II
Issue 123
WHEN A TEMPO DRIVER RAN INTO SHAH RUKH KHAN'S CYCLE
P12
NCS officers raise fund for students in Nagaland Dimapur : In a noble and inspired initiative to encourage students preparing for the HSLC Exam 2017, two NCS officers namely Monykashu Hq. EAC Sentilong Ozukum and EAC Mopong Hq. Yanithung Ngullie raised funds and distributed solar lamps and stationeries to HSLC Exam students under MonyakshuMopung Sub Division, Mon.
P5
NPF Kohima slams NPCC w/president Kohima: NPF Kohima division on Friday hit out at NPCC working president Ayangba Aonok's statement alleging that the "chief minister is hiding behind legal nicety and refuses to speak the truth unlike Neiphiu Rio who had openly clarified through the print media."
P5 Sensex Logs 4th Straight Weekly Loss on Demonetisation Concern Mumbai: Indian stock market recorded its fourth straight weekly loss, with the Sensex sliding 669 points to end at a six-month low of 26,150.24 and the Nifty dropping over 222 points to 8,074 as fears of severe cash crunch gripped sentiment after demonetisation of high value currency.
P7
Demonetisation a bold and gutsy move: USIBC Los Angeles: The decision to demonetise Rs 500 and Rs 1000 currency notes is a very "bold and gutsy" action by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a top US industry body has said. "We applaud this decision by the Prime Minister. I think this is a very gutsy, and a very bold move," Mukesh Aghi, president of the US India Business Council (USIBC), a representative body of top American businesses having a footprint in India, told media.
P7
Demonetisation to bring probity in politics, govt: Rajnath New Delhi: Hailing the Centre's move to demonetise Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes, Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said the action will bring probity in political and administrative works besides reducing the gap between rich and poor. There are some hardships being faced by the people following the demonetisation but this will continue for a short time only as the government is putting in all efforts with full sensitivity to normalise the situation, he said.
P8
Dibrugarh, Sunday, November 20, 2016
A new idiom of Dalit assertion
Price -
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WHAT IT TAKES TO CLEAR THE IAS EXAM
P6
P9
Militants ambush Army Convoy at Pengaree in Tinsukia; 3 killed, 4 injured Laxman Sharma Digboi, Nov 19
the site of the ambush and two vehicles - a jeep and a Shaktiman truck were completely damaged.
Three soldiers belonging to 15 Kumaon Regiment of Indian army based at Pengaree were martyred while another four injured here amidst Pengaree reserve Forest after a group of ULFA(I) and NSCN(K) militants ambushed army convoy at Pengaree while heading towards Digboi near Fasi Bridge in upper Assam in Tinsukia district.
This is the second attack almost in the same place carried out by ULFA (I) at Pengaree in a span of three days. On November 16, a man was killed and two were seriously injured when militants attacked a vehicle on the way to fetch new currency notes for a tea garden for payment of wages to its labourers was fired upon.
According to sources, the group of around 30 militants hiding parallel along the roadside amidst the bushes suddenly attacked the army convoy early this morning at around 5.30 with sophisticated weapons including 2 Rocket propelled grenade (RPG), hand Granade , AK-47 rifles and mortars and showered bullets which continued for around 20 minutes thus damaged two vehicles killing one jawan on the spot while the two other injured succumbed to their injuries on way to the hospital. Helicopters have pressed into service for the purpose. A huge crater was created at
The martyred soldiers were identified as Havelder Multan Singh (42), Nayak Narpat Singh (38) and Rishi Paul Singh. The injured were Bikram Chand, Satyendra Pratap Singh, Birendra Singh and Manoj Singh. The injured were immediately air-lifted for advanced treatment. Meanwhile, team of top brass of Assam Police headed by DGP Mukesh Sahay, IPS visited the place and took the stalk of the situation. Mr Sahay addressing the media expressed condolence to the martyred soldiers of Indian Army and told that the entire security machinery has been adopting zero tolerance towards militant’s organization and
2 ATTACKS WITHIN 3 DAYS A group of around 30 militants hiding along the roadside amidst the bushes suddenly attacked the army convoy early this morning at around 5.30 with sophisticated weapons including 2 Rocket propelled grenade (RPG), hand Granade , AK-47 rifles. The militants showered bullets which continued for around 20 minutes thus damaged two vehicles killing one jawan on the spot while the two other injured succumbed to their injuries on way to the hospital
would continue with its policies of curbing the menace of the outfits. Rather our approach would be intensified now and would not leave any stone unturned to realize the end more effectively. Terming the cowardice act of the outfits as inhuman, Mr Sahay when asked about the rehabilitation terror-stricken people of three nearby villages told that the innocent must not fear and
On November 16, 2016 a man was killed and two were seriously injured when militants attacked and showered bullets to currency van which was on the way to fetch new currency notes for a tea garden for payment of wages to its labourers was fired upon.
A huge crater was created at the site of the ambush and two vehicles - a jeep and a Shaktiman truck were completely damaged. Photo by Pranjal Bhuyan
guilty would be rewarded accordingly. The security operation in no way would disturb the peace of the affected villages and normalcy be maintained at all cost.
including rocket propelled grenade (RPG), AK-47 rifles and mortars. The security personnel retaliated but the militants managed to escape.
Tinsukia Superintendent of Police Mugdhajyoti Mahanta said the ambush was carried out jointly by NSCN (K) and ULFA (I) militants carrying very sophisticated weapons
Talking to the Eastern today, the panic-hit villagers of three villages of Khal Gaon, Muluk Gaon and Bhimpather who had left their villages and taking shelter in a nearby Khal gaon primery school and other safe
locations told that they were awaken in the morning by the continues blast and firing that threw fires and cloud of ashes amidst the forest. According to them, for fear of being injured and sustain loss of human lives, they have left the villages leaving behind their property and paddy field. Meanwhile, the security
forces from various wings of Indian Army have been pressed in the counter insurgency operation and entire terrorist infected belt touching Pengaree-Dibru Resreve forest, Noloni, Philobari, Dwarmara RFs have been effectively surrounded to nab the culprits. No desire output was received till the filling of this report.
DEMONETIZATION
No respite from queues for cash In Pasighat, public blames bank, bank blames RBI Maksam Tayeng Pasighat, Nov 19
After the demonetization of Rs. 500 and Rs. 1000 notes by the government, the woes of common public were beyond explanation here in the centurion town of Pasighat too, most ATMs closed down, functioning few ATMs ran without money, long queues in the bank and link failures etc. The impact of demonetization of Rs.500 and Rs. 1000 were felt even across small far off villages and people are seen lingering around the bank with frustrated faces to withdraw their hard earned money as every shops/market has stopped accepting the old notes. Several SBI customers have blamed the bank authorities for not being sincere in discharging their duties toward customers. They said that, bank staffs were not
In Tezu, SBI striving hard to ease crisis Bishnu Rana Tezu, Nov 19
Following demonetization of 1000 and 500 denomination notes, The State Bank of India witnesses messy scenario where customers are jostling in long queue since morning to exchange and deposit their notes. The customer has been finding tough time to exchange their notes since (Nov 13) from the day the government has demonetized the currency.
Outside SBI in Pasighat attentive and link failures for whole day were not properly informed to the customers who waited hours and hours in the queue hoping to draw some money. When asked to answer the worries of public, SBI Pasighat Chief Manager, S. Haokip clarified and told this reporter on Friday that, cash stock of the bank was so limited. “Only Rs. 20 crores of 2000 notes was supplied from Reserve Bank of
India, out of which we had to share with other private banks. So, we kept the maximum withdrawal limit to Rs. 10,000/ - only despite instruction for Rs. 24,000/-. Our cash stocks are almost zeroing, so to ensure other customers don’t suffer, we have kept the limit to Rs. 10,000/-“, added Haokip helplessness.
Contd. on Page 4
When enquired about step up measure to tackle the rush, Bijen Kr Dutta SM SBI Tezu said that the bank has taken slew of measure to ease the crisis. We have open two ATM (SBI premises & ITBP Lohitpur) and other 2 (two) will be opened soon (Shivaso Market & near Police Station). DC lohit has also provided us shades (Samiyana) for the convenient of the customer. He also disclosed acute shortage of 100, 10, 20 and 50
Finance Dept cautions against misusing bank accounts A Staff Reporter Itanagar, 19 Nov
Outside SBI in Tezu rupees denomination and has sent reminder to RBI for the immediate release of the denominations. “We have already distributed three Lakhs and fifty thousands (350000/) of 10 Rupees denomination and coins of Rs 10 and at present only 2000 of denomination is available and exchange of currency has been halted temporarily”, The BM reveals. However, Cheque facility can withdraw Rs 27000 in a week. He appeals the customer to bear with the Bank officials till the lower denomination is received.
Meanwhile, The Shopkeepers have refused to accept Rs 500 and Rs 1000 old denominations resulting adverse affect in the normal business. “Due to demonetization of currency our business are adversely affected. Earlier we used to sell Rs 20000 to 25000 in a day unfortunately at present we could sell Rs 2000 to 3000 only in whole day due to acute shortage of lower denomination”, rues a Glossary shopkeeper who is not necessary to be named.
On reports that some people are using bank accounts of other individuals to convert black money into new denominations, the state Finance Department today issued an advisory in accordance to the notification of the Government of India. Accordingly, Arunachal Pradesh Scheduled Tribe (APST) citizens of Arunachal Pradesh, who are exempted from paying Income Tax under relevant laws, have been cautioned not to allow nonAPSTs to park their money in their accounts. “Such practice will be deemed as illegal and is liable for prosecution”, the notice read. Contd. on Page 4
ELECTION
61% votes polled in by-elections in Assam 72 % votes polled in Arunachal by-poll
An estimated 61 per cent of the electorate exercised their franchise today for byelections to Lakhimpur Parliamentary constituency and Baithalangso Assembly seat in Assam.
cmyk
"The polling ended peacefully. The overall percentage of voting is 60.93 per cent. Out of this, 60.83 per cent was in Lakhimpur and 65 per cent in Baithalangso," Chief Electoral Officer
Mukesh C Sahu told PTI here. During the polling, eight voting machines were replaced in Lakhimpur constituency, while no EVM was changed in the Assembly constituency, he added. Lakhimpur has a total electorate of 15,11,110 voters, while it is 1,80,203 voters in Baithalanso. Polling began this morning amid tight security and was initially at slow pace with few voters trickling in the early
hours but picked up later during the day. Voting was conducted under strict vigil across both the constituencies. The by-elections to Lakhimpur parliamentary constituency was necessitated as Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal vacated the seat following his election in May last to the state Assembly from Majuli constituency, which falls under this Lok Sabha seat. In Baithalangso, it was
necessitated as sitting Congress MLA Man Singh Rongpi left the party to join the BJP in July. There are five candidates in fray in Lakhimpur -- Amiya Kumar Handique (CPI-M), Pradan Baruah (BJP), Hema Hari Prasanna Pegu (Cong), Hem Kanta Miri (SUCICommunist) and Dilip Moran (Independent). In Baithalanso, there are three contestants in fray Mansing Rongpi (BJP), Ruponsing Ronghang (Cong) and Rajen Timung (Independent).
ET Bureau Huyuliang, Nov 19
An estimated 72 per cent electorate exercised their franchise today in the byelection to Hayuliang constituency in the remote Anjaw district, bordering China, of Arunachal Pradesh, amid a massive security blanket. The polling, which began at 7 am, was peaceful without any incident of violence reported, Deputy Chief Electoral Officer
D J Bhattacharjee said.
However, the polling percentage is likely to go high as reports from several polling booths in remote areas are yet to pour in, Bhattacharjee said. It is for the first time in the history of the state that both the contesting candidates including district electoral officer, returning officer and the general observers deputed by the Election Commission, are all women. A polling station, exclusively for women, and a
model polling station were also set up in the constituency.
The fate of North East Democratic Alliance (NEDA) candidate Dasanglu Pul contesting on BJP ticket and Independent candidate Yompi Kri has been sealed in 81 Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs).
5,508 female voters has 81 polling stations of which three - Kibitho, Aphumna and Taflagam - are situated near the international border with China. The highest numbers of electoroate, 955 voters, are in Hayuliang polling station while Malogam polling station has only two.
Dasanglu is the youngest wife among the three wives of former chief minister, late Kalikho Pul.
The seat fell vacant after Pul allegedly committed suicide on August 9 this year.
The constituency with a total electorate of 11,003 including
Counting of votes would take place on November 22.
cmyk
ET Bureau Guwahati, Nov 19
DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20
P2 Raise coal auction slab to 90,000 tonnes: Coal traders
Jumbo electrocuted in Dibrugarh
A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Nov 19: A male adult elephant was ers of Assam and other electrocuted to death in states of our Country. Bordoibam village in Lezai-Kalakhowa area of Margherita Sub division Dibrugarh district early on is a vast area where Saturday. It is suspected 22,000 tonnes Coal that the jumbo came in Auction is not sufficient contact with a live electric as 22,000 Tonnes coal is wire trap, which is laid by not enough to fulfil the farmers around their fields to stop elrequirement of buyers. paddy ephant from invading their “NECF Coal India Lim- paddy fields in the harited Margherita should vesting season. The elsuction coal more ephant belonged to wild 90,000 Tonnes where herd of around 25-30 many registered coal pachyderms which has traders and dealers who been causing havoc in the are legally engaged in area raiding paddy fields this coal trade can do and granaries. It is alleged business dealings with- that some people have laying the wire traps out getting any kind of been in their paddy fields by inconveniences,” said tapping power from high Vinod Kumar Gourh, tension wires to ward off proprietor of Mahadevi the rampaging jumbos.
Mithun Baruah Margherita, 19 Nov: Vinod Kumar Gourh, proprietor of Mahadevi Coal Enterprise Margherita has appealed to the management of North Eastern Coal Fields Coal India Limited Margherita to increase the coal auction which has been causing lot of problems to all the registered coal traders and dealers of NECF Coal India Limited Margherita. Vinod Kumar Gourh said that that over the last three months NECF Coal India Limited Margherita has auctioned coal not more 22,000 tonnes which is very less than the demand of the buy-
Coal Enterprise, Margherita. According to locals, the elephant herd has come
HOROSCOPE Aries
Stop asking if you're gifted, Aries. This definitely isn't the time for such questions. Now is the time to work on something concrete. You will need the help of others if you're to succeed, so get to work convincing them to ally with you. You may have to reveal more of yourself than you normally do in order to sway people to your side. It's time to get out of your hole and take action!
Taurus
A partner for life or a brief encounter, which will it be? This is today's question. Why not choose both? Can you imagine being your partner's lover while keeping your independence? Don't be influenced by old models that force you to choose between these two ideas. Don't forget that in our modern world, your choices aren't as limited as you might think!
Gemini
You can never be anyone other than who you are, Gemini! That's the way it is and you can't change it. Other members of your family may have dreamed of getting free of a duty or a moral lesson, but these dreams don't apply to you. Your dreams of being someone else are like phantoms that have come back to haunt you. Simply brush them away!
Cancer
Leo
Virgo
The day ahead may bring a storm of individualism and independence. You usually tolerate the quirks and minor shortcomings of your friends or family members, but today they present real obstacles to your relationships. The only way to remedy the situation is to go on vacation. Spending some time alone will keep you out of trouble. If you want to make the best of the day ahead, Leo, try to convince your team or family to work together. This is tricky to do, what with everyone's schedule being so demanding right now. Hard as it is to coordinate their efforts and orchestrate harmony, the strength of your character and your team spirit will make it all work out. The day ahead won't be easy, Virgo. A glimpse at your love life reveals that you will be bridling at certain inhibitions. You long for peace and stability, and at the moment everything is in suspense. Use the day ahead to gain some perspective on the situation. Until the ice melts and the flow of events resumes, why not devote your energy to some other endeavor?
Libra
Lately, you've been nursing a feeling that your partner is inattentive. The tension has been building up and today, Libra, you're likely to boil over with the rage that comes from one too many doubts and suspicions. The forecast for love is stormy, without a doubt. But making up after the quarrel promises to be lots of fun.
Scorpio
Some days it's better to be on vacation! That's what you're liable to think today. All your projects are mired in quicksand, and you feel like you're spinning your wheels. But even if things are momentarily stuck, don't lose faith. Your inner self is gaining stability. When the time is right, it will be strong and reliable.
Sagittarius
Capricorn
Aquarius
Pisces
Deep inside, don't you have an urge to breathe new spirit into your love life? Of course, some things are more easily said than done. Currently, you don't have much time to devote to yourself, much less your partner. Affection could thrive if given half a chance. The day suggests that you commit yourself to making some decisions that will help bring you and your mate closer.
It's time to get what you need, Capricorn. Your desires don't always go in a direction that does you the most good, and this can cause tension. You feel as though it's impossible to combine your desires with what is good for you, notably in your love life. You wrestle with whether you should remain in your "creative" cave or share your life with someone. It doesn't have to be one or the other.
Take cover, Aquarius, because today promises to be an emotional roller coaster! Something seems to be askew with your relationships, and you feel torn in opposite directions. One force is pushing you to enrich your inner universe and another force is pushing you into the arms of someone you've recently met. Stay busy to avoid confrontation. People are going to think you're a star today, Pisces! Although you may not feel that way about yourself. What's gotten into you lately? Have you lost confidence in yourself? Are you now compensating for it? Do you feel a need for more success in your life? All this is possible, but you will have to take some risks if you're going to progress.
Assam Sahitya Sabha gears up for its Centennial Anniversary
ET Correspondent, Jorhat, 19 Nov: Assam Sahitya Sabha, the apex literary organisation of the state had almost complete it's preparations for its centennial anniversary will be held in Jorhat court field on 26 and 27 December 2016. Organizing a Press meet at Chandrakanta Handique Bhawan, central office of the Jorhat District Branch, the organisation informed that the organisation had almost completion of preparation, on Saturday. "we had almost completed our preparation" said Sameerian Bordoloi, President of Jorhat District Sahitya Sabha To promote Assamese language and literature, the Assam Sahitya Sabha was founded in 1917 under the presidency of Padmanath Gohain Baruah. In its 100 years of Journey, the organisation rooted all over the state, even able to open branches in places like Chicago, London, Phoenix
in Arizona.
The 10-km long power fence was constructed from Madhupur Deori gaon to Rangagora using jungle posts. However the electric fence has failed to check the aggression of wild elephants. According to wildlife experts, shrinking forest cover and encroachment upon elephant corridors have forced the animals to move out from their ecological space and stray into human settlement areas.
Mithun Baruah Margherita, 19 Nov: Kon Gogoi, Publicily Secretary of Asom Jatiyotabadi Yuba Chatra Parishad Central Committee has condoled the death of three Army jawans who were killed after a powerful blast that hit their army convoy in Digboi in Tinsukia district of Assam. The attack on convoy triggered an encounter between the security forces and the terrorists. Army, police, and paramilitary troopers have since launched a massive hunt for the rebels and to seal escape routes. In the meantime, the common people are bearing the brunt of hassling as security personnel in their attempt to nab the culprits. In this regard, Kon Gogoi appealed to the Army not to trouble and harass the common people in the name of search operation. He said, “Civilians should not be harassed and at the same time Tinsukia District Administration and elected leaders should keep strict vigil on it”.
GOLF: IndianOil Servo Masters 2016
invitees and are scheduled to take part in the occasion.
Arranging the centennial theme, the organisation planned to unveiled the statute of Padmanath Gohainbaruah founder president, Sarat Chandra Goshwami Founder Secretary and Dr. Maheshwar Neog intellectual and former President of Assam Sahitya Sabha. "Honourable President of India, Pranab Mukharjee is scheduled to grace the 100 years celebrarion of the Asom Sahitya Sabha as the chief Guest" said Sameeran Bordoloi the Secretary of the Jothat District Sahitya Sabha Centenary celebration Samity in the press meet. Bordoloi informed that apart from the President of India, the chief Minister of the state Sarbananda Sonowal and the VC's of all the Universities of the North Eastern part of the country were special
He also informed that all Former and present Sahitya Sabha officials along with officials of the sahitya sabhas of all the tribes in the state, officials of all regional organisations of the state and the officials of all the cultural groups of Assam outside the state will be specially invited on the occasion. A souvenir contains the journey of the organisation will also be released in the centennial. "The 1st volume of The history of the 100 years of the Asom Sahitya Sabha which has been compiled in four volumes consisting of 500 pages and a Souvenior will be also released on the occasion" said Samiran Bordoloi. Traditional craftsmen of the state during the centenary celebrations will be also planned to display by Assam Sahitya Sabha.
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Honey Baisoya sweeps IndianOil Servo Masters 2016 Sweeps North-Eastern leg, moves into second in Rolex Ranking Laxman Sharma Digboi, Nov 19: Delhi’s Honey Baisoya made it back-to-back wins on the PGTI after marching to a comfortable nine-stroke triumph at the IndianOil Servo Masters Golf 2016 here at the Digboi Golf Links on Saturday. Baisoya posted a clinical two-under-70 in the final round to end up with a winning tournament total of 20under-268. The 20-yearold, who won in Shillong last week, thus swept the north-eastern leg of PGTI’s 2016 season. Delhi’s Kapil Kumar, Honey’s cousin, was a distant runner-up at the Rs. 35 lakh event after his last round of one-over-73 took his tournament tally to 11under-277.
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Honey Baisoya (67-67-6470), the overnight leader by six shots, was in total control in the fourth round despite his early bogeys on the first and fourth. The birdie from 15 feet on the seventh set the stage for Honey’s win. An aggressive drive on the 12th earned him another shot before his decisive hattrick of birdies on the 14th, 15th and 16th.
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out from the nearby Dehing Medela reserve forest in search of food. In 2005, the US Fish and Wildlife Service, USA sanctioned an amount of Rs 5.3 lakh under the Asian Elephant Welfare Fund for construction of a 3-strand electric power fence along the Dehing Medela Reserve Forest to check elephant depredation in the area.
Kon Gogoi condoles the death of three Army jawans; appeals “not to harass the common people in the name of search operation
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Baisoya birdied the 14th after making eagles on it in the first three rounds. He was thus seven-under for the week on his favourite hole. He finally closed the tournament with a bogey on
the 18th to win by nine shots. Honey bagged the winner’s cheque worth Rs. 5, 25,000 and as a result moved up from fifth place to second position in the Rolex Ranking. His earnings for the season stand at Rs. 23,90,145. Bengaluru’s Chikkarangappa S continues to lead the rankings with season’s earnings of Rs. 24, 06,640. Honey said, “It’s terrific to win two events in two weeks. This phase is all the more special because I’ve finally achieved success after struggling for the first three years after turning professional. It’s not only the wins but also the good scores that I’ve been shooting for the past few weeks that have boosted my confidence. “I began the day with a little bit of pressure due to the expectation of winning. But after a poor front-nine, I got my game back on track with a very good birdie on the 12th which is a tough hole. I just kept the intensity going from there on with three straight birdies from the 14th to the 16th. “Having moved up to second place in the rankings, I now want to perform even better in the last three events of the season.” Baisoya has now joined Ashok Kumar as the only
other player to win his first two titles on the PGTI in consecutive events. The other golfers who have back-to-back wins on the PGTI (but not their first two wins) are Gaganjeet Bhullar, Shamim Khan, Anirban Lahiri and Mithun Perera. The 24-year-old Kapil Kumar (66-69-69-73) couldn’t take advantage of cousin Honey’s early errors as he made three birdies and three bogeys on the frontnine to make the turn at even-par. Kapil, who was striking it well on Saturday, added a lone birdie on the back-nine at the expense of two bogeys to end up with a 73. Kapil, still looking for his maiden win, said, “It’s a great result for me. I’ve been playing well but Honey has been in top form so it wasn’t easy catching up with him today. I’ll take a lot of positives from this performance as it’s my best finish so far.” Bengaluru’s Udayan Mane shot a 69 in round four to take third place at sevenunder-281. Mukesh Kumar (71) of Mhow was a further stroke back in fourth place. Last year ’s champion Shankar Das of Kolkata grabbed a share of fifth place along with Gurgaon’s Manu Gandas and Jamshedpur’s Karan Taunk at four-under-284.
DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20
P3
Tai- Community in Namsai all set for Poi Pee Mao-2111 (2016)
Chaw Washina Manchey Namsai, Nov,19: Tai-Community is all set for the celebration of Poi Pee Mao2111 (2016) that will be held at Namsai on 29th November to 1st December'2016. The three day celebration of Poi Pee Mau the new year festival of Tai Khampti and
other Tai communities is held to conserved by Tai Khampti Development Society (TKDS), The festival was celebrated as per their lunar calendar was aiming at reveling its age old culture, script, music, sports, dances, folklore and way of life while keeping pace with the modern world. The main attractions of the
celebration at Namsai will be that besides delegation from other Tai groups in N.E-India a Thai delegation will join the celebration this year in the festival informed by Chow Fatra Loungchot President, PPM Celebration Committee. Chowna Mein Dy.CM of Arunachal Pradesh himself
called evolving the celebration of PPM into a major tourism festival of the state during last meeting on 9th October at DC's office, Namsai he said "it should be a platform to showcase the rich culture and traditional of Tai-Khampti and this year the theme of the festival is 'NO TO DRUGS' which aiming to send a strong message to shun drugs abuse and renew the vibrantly of the TaiKhampti society". Throughout the three days there will be a range of cultural performances including traditional Tai music performances, Tai classical and contemporary dances from various parts of Namsai district and popular dance &drama of Tai Khampti called 'Pung'. The famous Tai cuisines will be served in the various traditional food stalls. The other added attractions of the event are display, Poi Pungfhai (releasing of fire balloon) cultural nite, fashion show and so many exciting programmes are awaited.
Gender Inequality and Customary Laws in Arunachal Pradesh- A Review’ Staff Reporter Itanagar, Nov 19 : The Arunachal Pradesh State Legal Services Authority (APSLSA), in association with the Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW) and Arunachal Pradesh Women Welfare Society (APWWS) held an awareness programme on ‘Gender Inequality and Customary Laws in Arunachal Pradesh- A Review’, with special emphasis on the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) at the state Banquet Hall in Itanagar today. Addressing a gathering of women welfare societies, college students and representatives of the Gaon Burrah and Gaon Burri Association, Associate Professor of National Law University, Assam, Dr Topi Basar explained that the Law Commission of India intends to seek the opinion of the tribal population as well before making any decisions on the UCC. She enlightened the gathering on what the UCC means, how it would be beneficial or disadvantageous, and the possible repercussions to its implementation, in the context of Arunachal Pradesh. The UCC is the proposal to replace the personal laws based on the scriptures and customs of each major religious community in India with a common set governing every
citizen. These laws are distinguished from public law and only cover marriage, divorce, inheritance, adoption and maintenance. Dr Basar pointed out that is essential to understand the UCC before blindly agreeing to all its terms and conditions as it could threat the existence of local tribal councils and customs that have been passed on for generations. Explaining that customary laws are different from customs, she emphasized on codifying customary laws, and creating a rule book for the local tribal council to enforce in a way that benefits all community members without any discrimination. “Once customary laws are in written form and approved by a competent authority, generations of customary practices will be preserved. But for that to happen, it is the responsibility of gaon burrahs and burri to see to it that there is uniformity of rights for all, including women, children and even men”, Dr Basar said. Saying that Arunachalees and its land stands exposed with unwritten customary laws, APWWS chief advisor Jarjum Ete informed on how the modification of customary laws could help protect women in several ways, besides polygamy. Explaining that government
employees come under the Indian law and cannot practise polygamy or polyandry, she said that “there are still many who twist customary laws to their advantage and the system is allowing it”, and urged everyone to work on forming written customary laws. She suggested that tribal community-based oragnisations sit with the Law Commission of India and formulate ways to incorporate laws that are nondiscriminatory towards women and beneficial to the socity as a whole. Gauhati High Court, Senior Advocate Dilip Mozumder explained how customs vary according to tribe and how it is essential to incorporate the good ones so that it is beneficial to all. He highlighted that while some tribes give more respect to the women in their community, their participation in decision making is still negligible. “We don’t have to bid adieu to customs, but modify them in a way that benefits the society, and the well being of the society starts with women”, he added. Chief Guest on the occasion, Gauhati High Court Judge, Justice Michael Zothankhuma said that with changing times, people have to change as well and develop the society. He cited the example of
Mizoram in 2014, where women raised voice against the unjust customary laws that deprived women from inheriting property. Accordingly, the Mizoram Government passed the Mizo Marriage, Divorce and Inheritance of Property Act, 2014, which allowed divorced or unmarried women to inherit property. He cautioned everyone that “Once a customary law is changed, it is no more a custom, while all customs cannot be given the tag of being legal.” “To improve an existing law is to create a new law instead of modifying it”, he opined, and added that the UCC should not be considered to be about championing the cause of men or women, but to see to it that there is no discrimination based on gender. Later, an interaction session was also held where the participants clarified their queries on the UCC and customary laws. They also filled up and submitted the questionnaire of the Law Commission of India. On the occasion, APWWS president Dipti Bengia Tadar, APSLSA member secretary Budi habung, APSCW Chairperson Mitali Tingkhatra and Law and Judicial, Under Secretary Dani Belo also stressed on the importance of gender equality for a better society and urged participants to discriminate the knowledge on UCC.
Local Sports
Diyun Namsai Youth after defeating Jyotipur at DGPG on Satyrday. Photo by: Buru Debnath
Team ‘Diyun Namsai Youth’ lifts Diyun Premier League Tournament Jotin Chakma Diyun, 19 Nov: Diyun Namsai Youth (DNY) lifted the Diyun Premier League (DPL), a cricket tournament held in Diyun general ground. In the fi-
nal match between DNY and Jyotipur Cricket Team, DNY gave a decent target of 113 runs in 20 overs. However,The Jyotipur could also managed to score 27 Runs be-
fore getting all out. Ruhul R was announced as the Man of the Match while Govinda R became the man of the tournament. The captain, Buru Debnath was handed over the tournament
trophy along with a winning acsh prize of Rs. 18000. Diyun Bazaar Secretary, Sunil Sharma and Kamal Badra attended as the Chief Guests of the Tournament.
35 schools participated in Science cum Craft Expo held at SFS School
Staff Reporter Pasighat, Nov 19: A two day Science cum Craft Expo which had started on Friday at St. Francis DeSales School located in Diking here at Pasighat concluded today with total participation of 35 schools from various different locations as well as NGOs like Adi Baane Kebang Women Wing, East Siang and Educomp Solutions. The event was inaugurated
by John Neihlaia, IPS, DIGP, APP. as Chief Guest who exhorted on imparting scientific knowledge and skills among the students. He also advised the general public to obey traffic rules and regulation, especially about parking of vehicles in proper manner. Other individuals who put up their exhibition stalls and awareness booths during the event were, Einstein Koyu, EAC cum MEO, from Pasighat
Municipal Council (on solid waste management), Kape Badak from APEDA (on alternative resource of energy), Er. Bimal Welly (EE) and Er. Kaling Taki (AE) from PHED & WS (on the lines of SBM, Waste management for rural areas), OC T. Radeng, from Traffic Police (on traffic rules & regulations) and Dr. Mandip Perme (DMO) from Health Department (Anti-drug, tobacco and al-
cohol and other ailments) along with Yalem Taga Burang, President, ABK Women Wing ( on Social evils) Besides all these, total of 35 schools from different location in and around Pasighat Township also participated in the event. SFS School Principal, Fr. Jojan Joseph expressed his happiness over successful turning up participants in the event.
ADC Mebo takes stock of threatening of labourers along MDR re-carpeting work Staff Reporter PASIGHAT, Nov 19: Taking serious cognizance of threatening of labourers engaged in recarpeting work of Mebo Dhola Road (MDR) on Wednesday wee hours, ADC Mebo, Yemling Tayeng inspected the site along with OC i/c Mebo Police Outpost
and JE, PWD, Mebo and took stock of the situation today. Tayeng directed OC, Mebo to investigate the matter seriously and also directed JE, Mebo to engage a local Supervisor at night time to coordinate the labouers in identifying such miscre-
ants. ADC Tayeng also asked JE, PWD to remain in the working sites to ensure quality work of the road being re-carpeted with black topping. On the part of OC, Mebo, he assured to nab the miscreants immediately. According to concern departmental sources,
the miscreants came at the camp of labourers along the MDR in two cars and a bike during the night of 16th November; site located some 56 KM from Mebo Zero point. But the number of the vehicles could not be identified as the cars were parked in some distances.
DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20
P4 CM Sonowal turns motivational speaker for students: urges to imbibe good principles in life
NATIONAL PLEDGE
V K Pipersenia, Chief Secretary, Govt. of Assam, administering the National Pledge among the officers and staff of Assam Secretariat during the observance of Quami Ekta Week at the Assam Secretariat Premises on Saturday
Hailakandi DC on a mission to bridge the gap between people and administration A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Nov 19 : With a view to removing the sense of alienation and to bring the administration closer to the people, Hailakandi Deputy CommissionerMoloy Bora has embarked on a mass contact programme crisscrossing the district focusing on the inaccessible and far-flung areas. Making whirlwind tours indifferent parts of the district, Deputy Commissioner Bora set off in the wee hours yesterday with Superintendent of Police, Pranab Jyoti Goswami in tow, to Riflemara, a nondescript hamlet, 13 kms deep inside dense forests, close to Assam-Mizoram border. Trudging along for close to three hours – negotiating undulating and inhospitable terrain, rickety bamboo and log bridges, crossing over the Dholeswar river by boat and a long precarious suspended bamboo bridge over river Balunala, DC Bora and SP Goswami reached at long last Riflemara, a small hamlet of Riang community concentration, after a brief stopover at Arjunfa Para camp. A rousing traditional welcome was accorded by the villagers of Riflemara to the visiting officials and dignitaries with village headman Tilok Ram Riang leading from the front. Flower petals were sprinkled with young damsels clad in colourful ethnic attire dancing in gay abandon to the accompaniment of drums and cymbals, escorting the officials all the way from the main gate to the village perched on hillocks. People were ecstatic. And the reason was not far to seek: they did not witness ever before the coming together of two heads of the district to their village. Only Deputy Commissioner named S.Thiek had come to their villagein 2012.Thiek was DC Hailakandi from January 9, 2012 to February 2, 2013. The young and old alike who had assembled since early morning braving the coldexuded the optimism that things will change for the better and they will enjoy the fruits of development that have eluded them since long. Interacting with the villagers, Deputy Commissioner Bora explained to them that his sole purpose of
coming to the backward village is to get first-hand account of the problems confronting them and how to redress their grievances. “I have come here with the purpose of having hands-on experience of the live issues of the people and to find ways how to resolve your genuine problems. This outreach programme gives me a massive opportunity to directly witness a wide range of problems faced by the masses,” he said, adding that he had learnt a lot during his interface with people. Lauding the efforts of Deputy Commissioner Bora to connect with the people through mass contact programme, SP Goswami said it will go a long wayin bridging the gap between the people and administration. He firmly believed that the mass contact programme has been able to take the administration to the midst of the people and help to wean away the misguided youth from the path of violence. “Extremism will die down if the socioeconomic issues fueling it are effectively addressed. And the best way to tackle extremism is to build bridges of understanding through mass contact programme,” he added. Scores of people who thronged the venue to meet the Deputy Commissionerhanded over petitions seeking his intervention to end their cup of woes brimming over. Village headman Riang, who handed over a memorandum with several signatories, enlisting some genuine and long-felt demands said, “What we want is solving of the burning problems being faced by us such as lack of road communication, health, education and drinking water. These are basic and fundamental rights that we have been deprived since long. And we are not asking for more,” he said. Riflemara was founded by headman Chandra Moni Riang in 1964. A memorial has been built in his honour. Paying floral tribute at the memorial, Deputy Commissioner Bora pointed out that his avowed mission is to bring awareness among the people, especially those living in far-flung areas, that ‘the administration is with them and wants to reach out
to the underprivileged and marginalized sections so that they can reap the fruits of development’. Village headman Riang said the goodwill gesture by the district administration to reach out to them will herald good days for them in the near future. Bora assured the villagers that the administration would leave no stone unturned to bring ‘acche din’ in the days ahead. The Deputy Commissioner narrated that things have started changing at ground zero with the coming to power of a new dispensation in Dispur with priorities being accorded to development of backward areas, including border area development.Spelling out his priorities, Deputy Commissioner Bora said, “I want to assure you that all the burning problems faced by you will be accorded top priority by the district administration and the new Governmentheaded by the dynamic Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.We will make things happen with your unstinted support and cooperation.” The Deputy Commissioner was quick to add that the development initiatives would be in consonancewith the existing forest laws and norms. Riflemara and adjoining villages fall under the Inner line Reserve Forest. Bora, whocompleted one year in office on October 9 this year, said his priority will be to complete the unfinished tasks vis-à-vis hanging in the balance since long, without impacting the environment. “I will have discussions with Divisional Forest Officer, D. Biswas present here and also at the appropriate level as to how to go about in initiating the development process with disturbing the ecological balance. Towards this end, I seek your support and cooperation as problems cannot be solved in isolation but through combined and concerted efforts,” he added. As the southern tip of Hailakandi district is plagued with extremist problem – two extremist groups are operating here – Riflemara and adjoining villages fall under it – Deputy Commissioner Bora urged the village headman and elderly to persuade the misguided youth to eschew violence and return to the
mainstream with the promise to rehabilitate them into the mainstream. Underscoring the need for spreading the light of knowledge, Bora appealed to the village headman and elderly to prevail upon the parents to send their wards to educational institutions. “You must insist on the parents to send their children to schools. The drop-outs too must continue with their studies,” he said adding that the administration would focus on trimming the number of school drop-outs. Promising to light up the village through solar panels, Bora said, “As electric transmission lineswill take time to reach your village, the administration will initiate steps to install solar panels to bring light into your lives.” As villagers’ lodged complaints following demonetization of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 currency notes and with no nearest bank around, the Deputy Commissioner assured them that he would take up the matter with the bank authorities and request them to collect the invalid currencies from the village itself and transfer the same to their accounts. As part of the mass contact programme, a medical camp was organized jointly by the district administration and Assam Rifles, drawing hordes. Eight doctors, two ANM nurses and five ASHA workers from the Officeof Joint Director, Health and Family Welfare, Hailakandi and five from Assam Rifles pitched in their efforts to provide the best of treatment to thosesuffering from anemia, dental, gynecological, pediatric and other ailments. A special immunization drive for children was also carried out. Over 600 patients enrolled their names – quite a good turnout considering the fact that the village has a population of around 5,000 only. In the wake of good response and the growing demand from the people of Riflemarafor more health camps, Deputy Commissioner Bora assured that the administration would organize such camps from time to time, drawing loud cheers from the gathering. As the DC and the SP started off on their return journey, with thousands of villagers of Riflemaragiving them a warm send-off, a new ray of light has descended igniting hopes aplenty.
No respite from queues for cash Contd. from Page 1
When asked about staffs in-activeness and link failures, he further clarified that, his staffs are trying best and link failure occurs from BSNL. “I am appealing our valued customers to bear with us during this crisis as
efforts are on to solve the problem on time. Meanwhile, reacting to the sufferings of common public out of demonetization of Rs.500 and Rs. 1000 denomination of notes by the central government, the district and block Congress Committee office bearers led by former
Education Minister, Bosiram Siram approached the district administration on Thursday and appealed for direction to all the banks located in East Siang to make 24x7 hours functioning of ATMs. As information received from sources, Siram along with district and block
congress leaders met DC i/ c, Bani Lego and urged the DA sto issue a directives for 24x7 hours ATM services beside proving hustle free transaction.The team also visited all the banks and urged the respective Chief Manager/Branch Manager to look after the need of the customers.
Finance Dept cautions against misusing bank accounts Contd. from Page 1
As all cash deposits of Rs 2.50 lakhs and above will be scrutinized, and deposits not matching income will be questioned, there have been reports that some account holders are being awarded some amount for the usage
of their accounts. The Ministry of Finance, Government of India made a clear stand that this form of tax evasion activity will be made subject to income tax and penalty if it is established that the amount deposited in the account was not of the account
holder, but of somebody else. Such a person is also liable for prosecution for abetment of tax evasion under IT Act. Regarding withdrawal and deposit of currency notes of the Mahatma Gandhi series in banks, the
department informed that deposit of the demonetized Rs 500 and Rs 1000 currency notes in one's own bank account is permitted up to December 30, 2016. Thereafter, deposit of old notes shall be permitted only at designated branches of the Reserve Bank of India.
and they must empower themselves with knowledge to be able to contribute meaningfully to the society, he said. Highlighting activities like double lining of railway tracks in the state as a clear indication of the government’s commitment to fuel faster development, Sonowal said that activities like dredging of Brahmaputra and plan for setting up 56 ports at different locations by the Brahmaputra River in the state would bring massive development to the state. Chief Minister urged the underprivileged students to take full advantage of government’s scheme of providing free admission into colleges and appealed
to the college teachers to keep quality of education as their top priority. Saying that sports and culture are important aspects of a student’s life, Sonowal urged the teachers and parents to inspire the students to take part in sports and cultural activities for achieving all round development. He also appealed to the parents to gift a tree sapling as a birthday gift to their children so that they that they can imbibe the importance of environment and nature. PWD Minister Parimal Suklabadya, Dispur MLA Atul Bora, Vice Chancellor of Srimanta Sankardev University Kandarpa Kumar Deka were present on the occasion among others.
Hunger strike at Mahur
APSC scam investigation on
A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Nov 19 : Speaking at the closing ceremony of silver jubilee celebration of Sonapur College at the city outskirts today, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said that only clean thoughts can lead to clean deeds and students must strive hard to remove the evil of corruption from society. Reiterating that only clean thoughts and actions can help one attain true happiness in life, Chief Minister Sonowal said that cleanliness and hygiene in day to day life are important values to be imbibed by the students as cleanliness is next to godliness. Saying that a dishonest person cannot expect a clean
system, Chief Minister urged the students to become good human beings along with excelling at academics. “To remove corrupt practices from the system we need good people and educational institutions have a great role in producing good, honest, dedicated citizens for the society” he said. Reiterating that the all government officials must work towards swift implementation of the government schemes meant for uplifting the underprivileged sections of the society, Sonowal said that any anomaly in the government funds would be strictly dealt with. The young generation must realise that the government is working hard for ensuring good governance
A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Nov 19 : The investigating team constituted to investigate the APSC scam, today conducted a fresh search at the APSC office and confiscated several files and documents. A team from the forensic laboratory also accompanied the investigating team. The search lasted over 4 hours. According to sources, all the members and officials will be questioned by the investigating team.
ET Correspondent Haflong Nov 19 Demanding immediate repair of all the roads of Dima Hasao in general and of NH 54 E in between Lumding - Mahur - Haflong etc in particular the Dima Hasao AGP staged 'indefinite hunger strike' at Mahur on Saturday. The Hunger strike led by former Chief Executive Member of N C Hills Autonomous Council and also a MAC Debojeet Thaosen along with Hlima Keivom MAC was participated by
several AGP leaders and well wishers of AGP. Talking to the media Thaosen said the roads in Dima Hasao has been in very bad condition resulting to a great inconvenience to the people of Dima Hasao. People are forced to suffer a lot due to dilapidated condtion of roads. Since the road has been serving the pivotal role in the socioeconomic betterment of the society and the people there fore it has become the need of hour to get prime attention from the concerned au-
thority for these roads in Dima Hasao. They further said if they do not get any assurence from the competent authority regarding the repair of roads, they would continue their hunger strike indefinitely. Mention may be made here that most of the roads in Dima Hasao are in dilapidated condition due to lakhaidaicical attitude of the authority concerned in cluding NHAI for which the people of Dima Hasao have been facing a lot of inconvenience for long.
CM Sonowal: Act East Policy would bring “huge transformation” to NE A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Nov 19 : Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal today flagged off Indo-Myanmar-Thailand Friendship Motor Rally at city hotel. Saying that the trilateral highway connecting India-Myanmar-Thailand would bring a lot of economic benefits to the state and the region, Sonowal said that this car rally is part of the government’s Act East policy that is going to bring huge transformation to the whole Northeastern region. Chief Minister Sonowal said gestures like this rally would serve as a facilitator in improving relationship with the neighbouring countries and break barriers of national borders in bringing the people of these South East Asian countries closer. By increasing people to people contact an environ-
ment of brotherhood and unity can be achieved between different countries and endeavours like car rallies can be good platform for international social exchanges. Youth of the stakeholder nations would be encouraged to mingle among themselves that would result in new age progressive societies, he said. Chief Minister Sonowal said that the geographical disadvantage of the state and the region would be turned into an advantage as the trilateral highway would facilitate massive economic activities with the neighbouring countries and focus would be shifted from mainland to the Northeastern part of the country in view of opening of this gateway to South East Asia. The rally will cover a distance of 5,722 KMs along the IMT Trilateral Highway
with about 80 participants from all the three countries, in 20 Indian made vehicles on a journey emanating from New Delhi and concluding at Bangkok spanning a period of 19 days. The rally seeks to sensitize people about the future possibility of travelling from India to Thailand through Myanmar by an all weather road. Chief Minister said that the state government aims to highlight Brahmaputra River at the global level in line with the Namami Gange Project of the union government and tourism potential of the river would be fully utilized so that it can bring economic benefits to people of the state. Chief Secretary V.K. Pipersenia, Vice President of Indian Chamber of Commerce Rudra Chatterjee were present on the occasion among others.
Quami Ekta Week kicks off today A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Nov 19 : Along with the rest of the State and country, Quami Ekta Week (National Integration Week) has begun in Hailakandi district from today onwards. The Quami Ekta Week is being jointly organized by the Hailakandi district administration and Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS), Hailakandi. The officials and employees of the Deputy Commissioner’s establishment and all Government offices in Hailakandi district took the pledge to promote secularity, non-violence, communal harmony, patriotism and national integration. During the week-long observance,the district administration and NYKS have chalked out many programmes like meetings, seminars and symposia to highlight the importance of communal harmony and national integration.The observation of the Quami Ekta Week will help to highlight the inherent strength and resilience of our nation to withstand actual and potential threats to the eclectic and secular fabric of our country. The first day of the week is being celebrated as the National Integration Day. The day will be observed as Welfare of Minorities Day on 20th November, Linguistic Harmony Day on 21st November,Weaker Sections Day on 22nd November, Cultural Unity Day on 23rd November, Women’s Day on 24th November and Conservation Day and Communal Harmony Flag Day on 25th November.
Assam LA’s team takes stock of ground situation at govt. land at Morigaon Dalim Phukan Morigaon, 19 Nov: A high level team of Assam Legislative Assembly comprising four MLAs namely Pradip Hazarika(AGP), Rasid Mandal (Congress), Charan Boro(BPF), Mrinal Saikia (BJP0 paid an official visit on November 17 to the vacant land of Mayong following the eviction drive of 265 families by the administration and took stock of
the situation arising out the eviction. The MLAs team observed the situation at Hatimuria and Hiloikhunda government land from where illegal encroachers were evicted recently. The team discussed about the rehabilitation of the evicted people in proper places with the officials of the Morigaon district administration. The team was assisted by Hemen Das,
Deputy Commissioner, Morigaon, Saibar Rahman, ADC, Morigaon and Ananta Gogoi, ADC -cum -CO, Mayong. The Assembly Committee after comprehensive discussion will submit its report to the State Government about the rehabilitation of the evicted people. The Assembly team appealed to the local people to maintain peace and communal harmony. The team
also directed the administration to monitor the situation arising out of the eviction at Mayong. The Assembly team later met the officials of the district administration and took part in the deliberation about the encroachment in the government land and necessary steps to clear those land in Morigaon district.
DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20
NORTHEAST
P5
By-poll begins in two Agartala Start-up meet emphasized need Tripura Assembly seats of frequent and regular startups meets Tripura, Nov 19 : A total of 39,007 voters will exercise their franchise in 48 polling stations in Barjala assembly constituency, while in Khowai seat 39400 electorate will cast their votes in 52 polling stations. Agartala, Nov 19: By-poll in two Tripura Assembly seats - Barjala and Khowai - began on a peaceful note amidst tight security. People were seen queueing up since early morning to cast their vote. For purposes of peaceful polling nine companies of central paramilitary forces, including Border Security Force (BSF) and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) have been deployed in the two constituencies and their adjoining areas. State forces, including Tripura State Rifles and state police have also been deployed. The Election Commission has appointed three central observes to oversee the polling in the two seats.
The Election Commission has appointed three central observes to oversee the polling in the two seats.
The Barjala (SC reserved) seat fell vacant following the resignation of Congress MLA Jitendra Sarkar due to internal squabble in the party, while the death of veteran CPI-M leader Samir Deb necessitated the by-poll in Khowai seat. At Barjala constituency a multi-cornered electoral battle is on with five candidates of BJP, CPI-M, Trinamool Congress, Con-
gress and Amra Bangali in the fray. Khowai seat too has contestants from the same parties in the ring. A total of 39,007 voters will exercise their franchise in 48 polling stations in Barjala assembly constituency, while in Khowai seat 39400 electorate will cast their votes in 52 polling stations. Results of the two constituencies would be announced on November 22. (PTI)
No black money holders detected in Meghalaya Shillong, Nov 19: Though it is unbelievable, there is no information about black money holders in Meghalaya as neither the State Bank of India nor the Income Tax department here has detected any transactions which are alarming, since the night of November 8 following the demonetisation announcement of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The senior officials of SBI and Income Tax department revealed on Friday that they had not received any reports related to exchange of cash and deposits beyond the permissible and taxable limit. However, they said that still there is time till December 30 to exchange the old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes by those who still hold on to them fearing action. "Our role comes into picture only after December 30 when the exchange of old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 cur-
rency notes with the banks will come to an end," a senior Income Tax official said on Friday. However, a top SBI bank official admitted that traditionally, the people of Meghalaya have a tendency to keep the cash in their homes instead of depositing them in the banks. "There is no problem in keeping cash at home, but if there are any queries from the bank, this traditional practice can be explained and what is important is to reveal the source of income," the official added. Though the tribals in the Sixth Schedule areas are exempted from paying income tax under Section 10 (26) of the Income Tax Act, 1921, individuals depositing cash over Rs 2.5 lakh will have to be ready to explain the source of their income in the current situation and the punishment for not disclosing the income is 200 per cent on the payable tax. Moreover, the banks in the
State are yet to come across anyone depositing fake Indian currency notes as the officials associated with various banks believe that the restriction on the use of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes has deterred those who have fake currencies from coming forward. The officials also said that the restriction will help control black money as those with undisclosed income in currencies of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 have only two options now, either to deposit them in banks for exchange or destroy them. While the officials of banks and Income Tax office here hailed the decision of the Prime Minister, they have no answers what would be the situation beyond December 30 since there is no effective mechanism to control the duplication of the new Rs 500 and Rs 2,000 notes. Moreover, people can still stock the new currencies in their homes. (Agencies)
Ind MDC touted as next KHADC chairman Shillong, Nov 19: LG Nongsiej is set to become the new Chairman of the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council (KHADC) with the People's Democratic Forum coalition proposing his name for the election to be held on Saturday and the opposition not fielding any candidate. Nongsiej, who has decided to stand as an Independent, had extended support to the People's Democratic Forum (PDF) led by the Council's CEM PN Syiem. Earlier on Friday, the meeting of the ruling PDF in the KHADC proposed the name of Nongsiej as its candidate and he filed his nomination thereafter. The Congress has not fielded any candidate. The time fixed for filing nomination was till 12 pm on Friday. Addressing reporters after the PDF meeting, Syiem said, "For the election of
Chairman, the proposers are Latiplang Kharkongor and James Ban Basaiawmoit. The seconders are Victor Rani and Donkupar Sumer. The decision was taken in consultation with the MDCs during the PDF meeting." On Nongsiej, Syiem said the former executive member has "vast experience in running the house". The Governor on Thursday authorised KHADC Secretary A. Shangpliang to chair the special session for electing the new chairman on Saturday. Meanwhile, Nongsiej said he accepted the decision of the PDF and that he would take up issues for the betterment of the legislative. When asked whether he would take the role of chairman as an MDC of HSPDP following his suspension from the party that is in the opposition, Nongsiej said,
"It is nothing new. Morning Mawsor and I were suspended from the party. However, I will try to talk with my fellow MDC friends to work together. After my removal from the party and till date I stand as an Independent MDC and I have not joined any party yet." However, he added that he came to know about the suspension from media reports but did not receive any official communication from the party. "We are outside the party fold now, which means that I am to be taken as Independent." When contacted, former Deputy CEM PT Sawkmie, who recently resigned from the PDF coalition, said the party did not field any candidate due to time constraint. "Moreover, we have only five members and it is pointless to file. The time was also too short," Sawkmie said. (Agencies)
Agartala, Nov 19 : A programme on Agartala Start-up Meet was organized jointly by TRIBAC, CFLE, JUST and NEDF at CFLE Conference Hall, Agartala on November 14, 2016. Sri S. K. Panda, Chairman of Skill Development of Tripura inaugurated the program as a chief guest. Exhibitions were organized by various SHGs, Producer Groups and NGOs. CFLE and TRIBAC also displayed their activities to the visiting guests. Dr. S. Kazi, Director, DEF, New Delhi presented his keynote address. Session on Startup opportunities and Challenges in Tripura. Sr. Celine
D'Cunha, Principal, Auxillium Girls School chaired the session. Shri Sibprasad Dutta, Director, TIME was among the other spokesperson of the session. Sri Pawan K Kaushik, Regional Director, CFLE and Dr. Selim Reza, Coordinator, TRIBAC described briefly the skill development initiatives taken by both the organisations and also stated that the organisations are working jointly to generate more livelihood options for various target communities. The next session was on Interaction among Startup Experts and potential Entrepreneurs. This session was chaired by Sri Sunil
UCO and SBI create trouble for customers, demand compulsory ID showing in Tripura. Agartala, Nov 19 : At a time when the union finance ministry as well as RBI and banks have been working by the sweat of their brows , the nationalised UCO and SBI banks in Tripura have been creating unnecessary trouble for legitimate customers by asking for ID proof even for normal deposits . A lady customer who had gone to deposit a small amount was asked for ID proofs when her turn came. When the lady pointed out that even the RBI's circular does not mandate producing of ID proof while making normal deposits, the bank clerk manning the counter groped for words but still
insisted. Finally after a bout of heated exchange and intervention from other custormers in the queue the clerk relented and made the deposit. Similar reports have been pouring in from customers in the nationalised United Commercial Bank (UCB). Meanwhile, more than Rs 900 corres have been deposited with various bank branches in Tripura as part of normal transaction. Howerver, more than Rs 300 crores have been deposited for exchange-all since the demonetisation announced by the prime minister Narendra Modi on the night of November 8. (Agencies)
Global Youth Award 2016 in Tripura
Shri Sujit Ghosh hails from South Tripura district Agartala, Nov 19: It is good news for the Tripura as state's young development professional Shri Sujit Ghosh has been conferred the Global Youth Award 2016 from India along with 10 young development professionals of the world. The award distribution ceremony of the International Youth Committee was held at the Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi in the line of World Youth Conference 2016 on 14th November 2016. When his name was announced with the native state of country, international delegates were eagerly waiting to explore about Tripura specially its culture, good governance tourism and scope of social
development. By this Tripura got its reorganization in a global platform of social development. Shri Sujit Ghosh hails from South Tripura district of Tripura involve in social development activities from the school days and currently working as Assistant Director of Voluntary Health Association of Tripura, Agartala. The Conference was witness the participation of selected young development professional from 90 countries around the world. Shri Sujit Ghosh also participated as an International delegates and Speaker of the World Youth Conference 2016 to represent India. (Agencies)
CNC to hold 7-day Train service in Tripura from prayer in Nagaland dawn to night in the offing
Agartala, Nov 19: In a major boost-up to the state's railway infrastructure , Agartala is all set to have regular and more frequent railway service between the state capital , Dharmanagar and Udaipur through regular and demo-engines. Disclosing this highly placed sources in the NF railway said that the Railway Board was planning hectically to upgrade the state of railway service in Tripura by providing train services linking Agartala-Dharmanagar and Udadipur at intervals of three
hours . The proposed upgraded train service which is also expected to include Udaipur in Gomati district may also run at hourly intervals , depending on rush of passengers. The present local trains may be run as Inter-City trains . 'In order to carry into effec the proposed upgraded service demo-engines will be needed and they have started coming to Tripura; in the Agartala railway station a separate shed for demo-engines has been built' sources in NF railway said . He said
that 'demo engine' means diesel run engines and this may be needed for railway connectivity in Tripura because electrification of of service at Agartala is yet to be completed. Along with other measures , local train service will also be more frequent and regular , sources added. 'The NDA government in Delhi is keen to improve infrastructure in northeast as fast as possible and this upgradation of service is part of NDA's and Modi's plan' sources said.(Agencies)
Dimapur, Nov 19: Council of Nagalim Churches (CNC) has informed that its office staff, prayer partners and well-wishers would be taking up a "watch-pre-dawn prayer" for a moment at 3am every day for seven days from November 21-27, 2016. In an appeal, CNC general secretary Rev.Seksim Kasar said any concerned Christian citizen who wished to join the prayer warriors could do so as per this prayer schedule. CNC has asked all to focus
their prayer on the well-being of NSCN (I-M) general secretary and chief negotiator Th.Muivah; good-will of Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, interlocutor for peace talks, RN Ravi, and all the Indian authorities and leaders irrespective of members in ruling and opposition. Further, CNC appealed to every NSCN (IM) member (both civil and army) to take up this prayer responsibility "as if you were under the pain of death." (Agencies)
The programme conducted with vote of thanks from Fr. Jeevan Kennady, Director, JUST, Agartala.
Kumar, GM, NABARD. Dr. S.Kazi, Director, DEF, New Delhi and other invited experts presented
their ideas and interacted with the potential entrepreneurs during the session. Dr. Kazi and Sri Sunil
Kumar also emphasized on the need of frequent and regular startup meets like this by inviting potential donors and funding agencies to get advantage of proper guidance, motivation and funding opportunities. The programme conducted with vote of thanks from Fr. Jeevan Kennady, Director, JUST, Agartala. At the end, the master of Ceremony Shri Pratap Dutta presented vote of thanks. The first start up meet made all the participants filled with more enthusiasm and increased their knowledge towards Start-Up India Program. (Agencies)
NCS officers raise fund for students in Nagaland
Sentilong and Yanithung along with the students and students' leaders after the formal programme Dimapur, Nov 19: In a noble and inspired initiative to encourage students preparing for the HSLC Exam 2017, two NCS officers namely Monykashu Hq. EAC Sentilong Ozukum and EAC Mopong Hq. Yanithung Ngullie raised funds and distributed solar lamps and stationeries to HSLC Exam students under Monyakshu-Mopung Sub Division, Mon. Ozukum said "many of the students couldn't study properly at night and had to resort to dimly lit kerosene lamps because of the irregular power supply. So we started a small solar lamp project, raised a small fund from friends and well-wishers and in no time we were able to procure a solar lamp and other stationeries for every student." He said their effort was to sensitize the people about the importance of education and the development of human resources to improve the educational scenario in the subdivision. According to Ngullie his
sub divisions have very low literacy rate and hardly two or three students from the Govt. High Schools passes the HSLC Exams. Therefore, he along with some friends and school teachers are trying their best to help the students pass the HSLC exam which, Ngullie opined, will certainly go a long way in determining the future of the students. EAC Mopong Hq. Monyakshu-Mopung circle located in the IndoMyanmar border is more than 120km away from Mon Hq and has one of the lowest literacy rate in the state. Apart from their official duties, the two NCS officers are also actively engaged in teaching in the schools and providing tuitions and coaching to the students after school hours in the evening. A small prayer programme was held at Monyakshu Town for the HSLC Exam students from all the schools under Monyakshu-Mopung circle which included
Govt High School Bumei, Govt High School Mopung, St. Xavier High School Changlangshu and Baptist High School Monyakshu Hq. Speaking on the occasion, Head master Govt. High School Bumei, Lichio Yanthan, thanked the District Administration for their noble effort and encouraged the students to leave no stones unturned to make their dreams come true. The two NCS officers further appealed to the parents, leaders and other stakeholders of the sub divisions to give utmost importance to 'education of a child' in order to help build a brighter future of the society. Along with the students and teachers, the programme was attended by Village Council members of neighboring villages, GBs, Church Officials, NGO leaders and two EAC Probationers Tumben Tsanglao and Rohbi Sangtam who also delivered motivational speeches to the students. (Agencies)
NPF Kohima slams NPCC w/president Kohima, Nov 19: NPF Kohima division on Friday hit out at NPCC working president Ayangba Aonok's statement alleging that the "chief minister is hiding behind legal nicety and refuses to speak the truth unlike Neiphiu Rio who had openly clarified through the print media." In a press note, NPF Kohima division press secretary, Alo Yakhro said it was "highly questionable to have a leader like Aonok, who do not hesitate to appreciate Neiphiu Rio for filing nomination papers not only by declaring false honours degree but using a fake and false certificate". Yakhro questioned whether Aonok's statement was a good example to the younger generation to use fake academic certificate and try to justify in the court like
Neiphiu Rio? Rather, he said Aonok and NPCC should give due credit to the police for thoroughly investigating and sending the charge sheet to the honourable court. Alleging that there was a strong suspicion of "underneath dealings between Rio and Aonok", Yakhro questioned "how could a national party leader holding the post of state working president, stoop down that low to defend Rio and blindly support the fake certificate used by Rio". With regard to chief minister's education issue, he said though the matter was already disposed off by the JMFC Peren, it was again appealed in the High Court and the judgement was reserved. He advised Aonok not to panic, saying the judgement would be in accordance with
law and not as per the opinion of any individual. Yakhro further said he was surprised that Aonok had been hunting after the CM's case and was giving out statements in the local dailies, while on the other hand defending Rio without any hesitation when he (Rio) was not even a primary member of the Congress party. "We have reasons to suspect him that there is definitely some tacit understanding between him and Rio," he reiterated. Yakhro also reminded Aonok that his party does not have a single MLA in the present house. He said, if Aonok was concerned for the people, he should first explain to the people "why he was supporting Ro for using of fake certificate instead of targeting CM for cheap political mileage." (Agencies)
EDITORIAL
DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20
Today's quote
“
Look up at the stars and not down at your feet. Try to make sense of what you see, and wonder about what makes the universe exist. Be curious. Stephen Hawking
Saying no to jallikattu, again It is no surprise that the Supreme Court has declined to review its 2014 judgment banning jallikattu, the popular bull-taming sport held alongside annual harvest festivities in rural Tamil Nadu. The original judgment had drawn on sound legal principles to conclude that the need to prevent cruelty to animals overrides the consideration that conducting the sport was necessary to preserve culture and tradition. More particularly, the court had found that a 2009 State law that sought to regulate jallikattu was repugnant to the 1960 central legislation to prevent cruelty towards animals. The former Act did contain stringent provisions, but animal rights activists contended that the element of cruelty could not be eliminated altogether. Despite evidence that the game caused distress and pain to the animals, and even led to injuries and occasional fatalities, political leaders in the State and sections of the public often make the claim that jallikattu has cultural and religious significance for the Tamil community. Jallikattu is construed as a macho sport in which intrepid young men demonstrate their valour by pouncing on fleeing bulls. It is also associated in the popular imagination with cultural pride. Over the years, the tradition was kept alive in many villages under the belief that not conducting jallikattu would invite divine wrath. As a result, the bull-baiting sport was invested with religious significance too. It was unlikely that the court would have entertained a review merely on a claim that popular sentiment favoured the conduct of jallikattu and that its purported religious and cultural significance would provide constitutional protection to it. The Bench has rejected attempts to invoke the right of religious freedom guaranteed in Article 25 of the Constitution. It was unfathomable that there could be a connection between jallikattu and religious freedom, the court said. And it was held mainly for human entertainment at the expense of the animal. Apart from the State government's review plea, the Centre had embarked on a misadventure in January by issuing a notification aimed at permitting jallikattu. The action was stayed immediately and a verdict on its validity is expected to come separately. However, given that the court is sticking to the stand that it would not allow any cruelty in the name of holding a rural sport, it is unlikely to survive judicial scrutiny. The Tamil Nadu government and like-minded sections at the Centre would do well to accept this ruling as final and stop espousing the cause. If there is one takeaway here, it is the futility of pursuing measures to preserve feudal traditions in the teeth of reasoned judicial opinion.
Justice beyond borders Russia's move to quit the International Criminal Court (ICC) is the outcome of the political undercurrents that have of late strained its relations with the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). More ominous could be the ramifications of the exit, the fourth within the last two months, from the established world arbiter. The collective vision of that global pact was to bring the impunities of political leaders to justice before a transnational body when all domestic remedies were exhausted. Russia's announcement was predictable as a reaction to the court's report on Tuesday, stating that the 2014 annexation of Crimea from Ukraine amounted to an occupation. Moscow has denied any role by its military, maintaining that Crimea's accession was authorised in a popular referendum. NATO's continued eastward expansion explains at least some of President Vladimir Putin's belligerent rhetoric. Not only has the western military alliance extended into the countries of the former Eastern bloc, it has also brought some member states of the erstwhile Soviet Union within its fold. Moscow's approach to the world court is far from ideal. But the constraints of initiating punitive action against the U.S. and its allies for the war crimes committed during the Iraq war would have further eroded Russia's diminishing faith in the liberal world order. South Africa's decision to walk out of the Hague court in October symbolises its abdication of a regional leadership role. Africa still remains hostage to the machinations of traditional tribal warlords, who systematically subvert democratic institutions and squander the rich natural wealth in league with big corporations. South Africa's regressive step came at a time when politicians in neighbouring countries, faced with legal proceedings for perpetrating heinous crimes, have successfully projected the impression that the ICC was biased against the whole continent. The current stance of Pretoria is a far cry from that over a decade ago when the country incorporated crimes of genocide from the ICC statute into its domestic laws. When Washington refused at the turn of the century to be bound by the jurisdiction of the Hague court, there were concerns that the nascent body would be left sorely wanting in legitimacy and authority. Those anxieties have, if anything, been amplified by the unprecedented war crimes being perpetrated in the Syrian conflict and the humanitarian catastrophe being witnessed there. To enforce justice beyond the barriers imposed by domestic borders is a noble aim. But its realisation is that much harder when nationalism is resurgent.
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A new idiom of Dalit assertion There's a new turn in Dalit politics that entails taking charge of affairs in their own hands, and a widening of the terrain of struggle rather than restricting it to political power or religious conversion. Valerian Rodrigues There is a new swing in Dalit politics today. Its signs are palpable in the way Dalits have reacted to atrocities on them, the modes of struggles devised, the kind of alliances forged, and the nodal concepts and norms invoked for action. While old ways of doing Dalit politics - paternalism, quotas, sub-caste appeal, conversion, bahujan (including sarvajan) - are still around, more in a client-patron mode, Dalits are increasingly taking charge of affairs in their own hands. A few features of this turn are noteworthy: caste is back into reckoning; the use of social media to network and communicate has proliferated; Left politics and its limitations are under scrutiny; Babasaheb Ambedkar has reinforced his presence as the flagpole; there is a highly literate Dalit leadership deeply aware of historical injustice and electorally decisive numbers in support; a thick notion of Brahmanism is highlighted as the enemy; a search for a new civil society-state axis is on; and a new body of concepts and slogans are being deployed as the battle cry. Dalits have begun to dig deep into layers and layers of folklore and alternative nationalist imagery to forge skilful use of signs, symbols and representations. While one can say that all these features were part of the Dalit movement at one time or the other, it is their combinatory which is proving itself lethal. Above all, this stir is situating itself on the terrain of India's distinct democratic politics, employing its resources as much as possible. There is no single political party at the head of this movement although many political parties will have much at stake in it. Reaction to atrocities The continuing, large-scale and disdainfully executed atrocities on Dalits were largely confined to police records and the bulky records of the National Commission for Scheduled Castes for long. But incidents such as a suicide note
by a research scholar, Rohith Vemula, that stated, "My birth is my fatal accident", has connected all of them and much more to the social fact of caste: his suicide is seen as a witness to the squeezing out of the life of millions of youth - bright, daring, and with dreams to reach out to the sky - on account of caste and all it means in context. Dalits increasingly feel that the opportunity to access the legal and institutional resources of a democratic polity has gone hand in hand with relocating them into a caste grid, consigning all their effort, again in Vemula's words, to "immediate identity and nearest possibility". Their life prospects are much inferior to those of its other beneficiaries. This sense of 'unfair inclusion' connects them to the vast numbers in the Indian subcontinent who are kept, in Ambedkar's cryptic phrase, "outside the fold". The denial of access to equal opportunities and rewards is not merely economic but ways of life, and abilities to define one's own and collective futures. Such a state of affairs may not be played out in the open but built into the common sense of everyday life. Therefore, in all sectors, even in public enterprises, Dalits tend to crowd those levels that are insignificant, prone to routine and imitation rather than inventive and decisionmaking. In institutions of higher learning Dalits crowd social sciences and humanities that are endowed with very little institutional outlay or vision, and can generate very few sought-after jobs or opportunities. The effect of land reforms and agrarian transformation - while reinforcing the hold of landed castes and communities in the countryside - has pushed Dalits and social segments akin to them further to the margins. There is a new enslavement and recrudescence of gradation and ranking at the workplace rather than enablement and camaraderie. The Hindutva agenda of inviting all Hindus to the banquet table but assigning
lower castes to their predestined places has further exacerbated the sense of being unwanted. 'The fatal accident of birth' connects all the sites that have witnessed Dalit upsurge in recent days, from Tughlakabad to Una, from Hyderabad to Udupi. But it also runs through the distinction between skilled and unskilled, organised and informal, rural and urban, and male and female labour. This cleavage also links much subtler forms of exclusion and relative marginalisation to more cruder forms of atrocities. Modes of struggle The social relations in which Dalits are caught calls upon them to struggle not merely against external dominance, be it capital, caste or power, but also against denial of their very humanity. The latter forms of struggle are pitted against subtler forms of human degradation and enslavement of one's very self. The new turn in Dalit politics is precisely calling for a widening of the terrain of struggle rather than merely restricting it to political power or religious conversion. Given this task, there are new instrumentalities in place in Dalit struggles: the social media does not become merely a site to net-
work, but also to inform, to criticise, to assess as well as redefine concerns. In fact the social media has emerged today as the backbone of the new Dalit awakening as could be seen in the solidarity movement with Rohith Vemula across the country, in 'Azadi Koon' (March for Freedom) from Ahmedabad to Una in Gujarat, or the 'Udupi Chalo' walk that brought thousands of Dalits from different parts of Karnataka to the temple town, Udupi. The great marches and rallies winding across distant villages and small towns and uniting people around a set of core demands are connecting people physically and emotionally. There are slogans asserting pride in being a Dalit, with a subcaste enumeration as an add-on, not infrequently. There is a resurgence of folklore, sites of atrocities have become places of pilgrimage, traditional musical instruments of Dalits have thrown up fusion with rhythmic dances of great power and poise, and broadsheets, songs and street plays, evocative posters and imaginative slogans challenge dominant perception and sensitivity. Women and men are found shoulder to shoulder with one another in this 'long march', something that the late
Sharmila Rege portrayed in her writings. Ambedkar makes a rich and exemplary presence across such performances, and there is almost none beside him in stature. Today, sites of Dalit rallies are crowded with a rich display of books and publications, a widespread practice in Left rallies of yore. Hitherto, cleavages between Dalits and backward castes, Dalits and Muslims, and the gender divide have come in the way of optimising the democratic dividend from their overwhelming numbers. The decisive support of Dalits to the backward castes in the Mandal agitation did not beget enduring political alliances. The Dalit and Muslim alliance never took off the ground at any time in right earnest. And, less said the better with regard to the alliance between backward castes and women. In recent years, faced with Hindu consolidation under the aegis of Hindutva, the targeting of Dalits and Muslims by the cow-brigades or Gau Rakshak Dals, the growth in civil society surveillance and moral policing, and the relative marginality of these groups in the market, there is a growing realisation among sections of them that they need to politically draw closer. The slogans that resound in the Dalit movement today indicate such a thaw: The banners read, and slogans echo: 'choice of food', 'right to land', 'Swabhiman' and 'Atmabhiman' (self-respect), 'Azadi' (freedom) and 'dignity'. They pronounce death knell to historic oppression, and freedom to define their own self-hood. Dalits also proudly announce the equality of women and their right to choose the kind of life they wish to live and denounce the surveillance of Hindutva brigades on them. The dragging out of Mohammad Akhlaq from his house and his killing by a local Hindu mob on the charge of storing beef at his house in Dadri, Uttar Pradesh, has become an important issue in Dalit struggles, woven around
the right to food. As a result, we find the bonding together of a large number of associations of these groups and communities. Nodal concepts and norms The registry of norms that are invoked by the current Dalit movement to explain and justify its objectives and actions has much to distinguish it from its earlier expressions. It is increasingly human dignity and worth, and the capacity to be what one can be, that occupy the high ground. The reduction of freedom to one's birthmarks, and the social structures, institutions, prejudices and interactions that sustain such a state of affairs are seen as new forms of enslavement. A patch of land of one's own, a home where one can live on one's own terms, not to be condemned to certain occupations, or be treated as low and defiled stir Dalit imagination today as never before. The term Brahmanism that Dalits have employed to rally against a specific mode of dominance from the time of Jyotirao Phule and Iyothee Thass has acquired new connotations of sustaining a social order based on graded inequality, servility and deference, and selfaggrandisement at the expense of misery and inhumanity meted out to others. India's so-called modern and democratic institutions are increasingly perceived as sustaining a Brahmanical dispensation. The central concerns of Muslims, women and backward castes are perceived as being consonant with these concepts and norms. What electoral dividends this new sensitivity will bring at the hustings or in foisting party alliances is difficult to anticipate at present. The new Dalit politics feels that it holds the key to some of these concerns and strivings. While there is much that unites the social groups and communities enumerated above, there is much that divides them too. Bridges connecting these divides are yet to be built. Dalits are yet to reach out to Adivasis in a meaningful way.
Time to move towards a new litigation policy Government litigation reportedly constitutes nearly half of all litigation in the Indian judiciary. Ameen Jauhar On the occasion of the Delhi High Court's golden jubilee in October, the Prime Minister broached the problem of excessive government litigation. The Supreme Court, since the 1970s, has berated successive governments for being callous and mechanical in pursuing litigation. The Law Commission of India also studied this problem in its 126th Report in 1988, and made appropriate observations on this front. Besides being a constraint on the public exchequer, government litigation has contributed to judicial backlog, thus affecting justice delivery in India. Government litigation reportedly constitutes nearly half of all litigation in the Indian judiciary. However, there are no government sources to confirm the actual quantum of its litigation. The
absence of this statistic itself is an indicator of how 'interested' various governments have been in attempting to understand this problem or tackling it meaningfully. National Litigation Policy, 2010 It would be incorrect to say that no attempts to tackle government litigation have been made. The Law Minister in the United Progressive Alliance government had launched a "National Litigation Policy" (NLP) in 2010 to transform the government into a "responsible and efficient" litigant. This concept of a national litigation policy has been explored by other countries as well. The Australian Taxation Office, for example, conducts its litigation in accordance with the PS LA 2009/9 Conduct of Tax Office Litigation, which is an elaborate set of guidelines obligating the government to be a model litigant.
Helping hands A mother, wishing to encourage her son's progress at the piano, bought tickets to a performance by the great Polish pianist Ignace Paderewski. When the evening arrived, they found their seats near the front of the concert hall and eyed the majestic Steinway waiting on the stage. Soon the mother found a friend to talk to, and the boy slipped away.
At eight o'clock, the lights in the auditorium began to dim, the spotlights came on, and only then did they notice the boy - up on the piano bench, innocently picking out "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star." His mother gasped in shock and embarassment but, before she could retrieve
But the NLP has failed as an initiative due to ambiguity. The NLP 2010 is replete with rhetoric and generic phraseology which has no scope for implementation. Instead of being an analytical policy document attempting to address the causes of excessive government litigation, it appears to have been drafted on anecdotal notions of the problem, with no measurable outcomes or implementation mechanism. The NLP 2010 fails to provide a yardstick for determining responsibility and efficiency. The policy then idealistically states that there should be greater accountability regarding governmental litigation, and mandates "suitable action" against officials violating this policy. However, the text does not define this "suitable action", or prescribe any method to conduct any disciplinary proceedings. The NLP
2010 also creates "Empowered Committees" at the national and regional levels, apparently to regulate the implementation of the policy. But there is ambiguity about their role and powers, resulting in lack of transparency in their functioning. While these committees are intended to be integral to the accountability mechanisms under the policy, the ambiguity in their roles and functions make them susceptible to a constitutional challenge. The NLP 2010 also lacks any form of impact assessment to evaluate actual impact on reducing government litigation. This absence of a monitoring mechanism is evident from the fact that there is no data available even today to accurately verify the extent of government litigation in India. Without such evaluation, this litigation policy remains a theoretical, ambiguous and fairly inadequate
her son, the master himself appeared on the stage and quickly moved to the keyboard. He whispered gently to the boy, "Don't quit. Keep playing." Leaning over, Paderewski reached down with his left hand and began filling in the bass part. Soon his right arm reached around the other side and improvised a delightful obligato. Together, the old master and the young novice held the
crowd mesmerized with their blended and beautiful music. In all our lives, we receive helping hands some we notice, some we don't. Equally we ourselves have countless opportunites to provide helping hands - sometimes we would like our assistance to be noticed, sometimes we don't. Little of what we all achieve is without learning from others and without support from others and what we receive we should hand out.
document on the pretext of policy reform. The way forward In 2015, after the National Democratic Alliance came to power, there was a discussion to review the NLP. This is yet to culminate in a revised NLP. While the Prime Minister's recent comments may be some indicator of greater political will to deal with the problem, government response to the problem needs to be much more dynamic and resourceful. Worryingly, for example, like 2009, no proper detailed study of the amount or nature of governmental litigation in India appears to have been conducted. The present exercise of revising the NLP therefore appears to be again on preconceived and baseless notions of the problem. The Prime Minister himself acknowledged that the bureaucracy was not sufficiently motivated to tackle the issue. But a dis-
interested bureaucracy is hardly an excuse for not acting on a pressing issue. Finally, the ongoing revision of the NLP needs to ensure certain critical features are not missed out: first, it must have clear objectives that can be assessed; second, the role of different functionaries must be enumerated; third, the minimum standards for pursuing litigation must be listed out; fourth, fair accountability mechanisms must be established; fifth, the consequences for violation of the policy must be provided; and sixth, a periodic impact assessment programme must be factored in. A litigation policy can have a profound effect on how the government thinks about itself as a litigant, and can help curb the problem, provided it is a constructed with a thorough understanding of the problem and offers solutions based on evidence rather than conjecture.
Country without cash The ongoing 'demonetisation drive' has touched its tenth day, with no relief to people. Politicians have played vote-bank politics while people suffer on the streets. Instead of placing the blame on the Narendra Modi government, the Opposition can come forward and help the people on the streets. Here, banks are playing a valiant role in bringing parity to the distribution of money. The inconvenience caused to the public is likely to continue for a month or so. The government, the Opposition and the people need to find ways to unite in the national interest. Khirod Baruah Moranhat
DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20
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BUSINESS
Sensex Logs 4th Straight Weekly South-Asian body terminates ties with US airlines Loss on Demonetisation Concern Mumbai, Nov 19 : Indian stock market recorded its fourth straight weekly loss, with the Sensex sliding 669 points to end at a six-month low of 26,150.24 and the Nifty dropping over 222 points to 8,074 as fears of severe cash crunch gripped sentiment after demonetisation of high value currency. Besides, an uncertainty with regard to US President-elect Donald Trump's likely policies in the coming months also made domestic investors nervous as they believe he might adopt a protectionist approach towards American businesses -- which will lead to outflows of funds from emerging markets. The government on November 8 announced the withdrawal of old high-
A file photo of the Bombay Stock Exchange value currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 from circulation, which severely affected most of the cashdependent sectors such as real estate, metal, consumer goods among others. A sharp depreciation in the rupee value against the
dollar also dampened the mood in domestic market. The rupee breached the psychological 68-mark to end near 9-month low of 68.13 against the dollar as sentiment turned bearish on combination of growing US rate hike expecta-
Farmer bodies want govt to allow old notes for agri input buy New Delhi, Nov 19: Farmer associations today demanded that the government should allow use of the banned 500 and 1,000 rupee notes to buy seeds and fertiliser till December 30, saying peasants are short of cash and have no takers for their crop. The government has allowed use of the old notes for certain utility payments till November 24, but has so far not agreed to the same for purchase of agri inputs like seeds, fertilisers and pesticides. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, in his first pre-Budget consultation, was flooded with representations from the farmer bodies to ease cash crunch by allowing cooperative banks to exchange and accept old notes and dispense more new currency at wholesale mandis. They also sought removal of anomalies in the draft GST Bill, higher budget allocation for agri research and better implementation of existing farm schemes. Briefing the media after the
meeting, Consortium of Indian Farmers Association (CIFA) General Secretary B D Rami Reddy said, "Timing of demonetisation is not correct. Kharif crops are arriving in the market, but there are no buyers because of lack of cash. Rabi sowing has started and farmers need cash for buying various inputs like seeds, fertilisers and water." He said: "The government has given several exemptions to general public to buy rail and air ticket. We have requested the finance minister to allow farmers to do cash transaction in old notes for buying agri inputs till December 30." Stating that farmers transact in "100 per cent cash", he added, "If this exemption is not given, it will have a very bad impact on agriculture production and the overall economy." Echoing his point, Bharat Krishak Samaj Chairman Ajay Vir Jakhar said, "Demonetisation worries require immediate attention. Restrictions on ex-
changing and accepting old currency notes imposed on district cooperative banks must be removed immediately." This can be done in branches which are electronically connected to the apex bank, RBI, he suggested. Also on his wish list is higher cash availability to APMC markets to the tune of 15 per cent of the traders weekly average turnover recorded in APMC books last fiscal. "It will revive stagnating flow of perishable fruits and vegetables," he reasoned. Suggesting better implementation of the existing agri schemes, CIFA has asked the finance minister not to announce any new scheme in the upcoming budget for 201718. "The existing schemes should be implemented in letter and spirit," Reddy said. He also sought the governments intervention to ensure institutional credit is made available to all farmers as only 31 per cent are covered at present. (PTI)
Demonetisation a bold and gutsy move: USIBC The USIBC president said the Prime Minister took such a bold decision even at the risk of political capital.
Image for representation purpose. Los Angeles, Nov 19: The decision to demonetise Rs 500 and Rs 1000 currency notes is a very "bold and gutsy" action by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a top US industry body has said. "We applaud this decision by the Prime Minister. I think this is a very gutsy, and a very bold move," Mukesh Aghi, president of the US India Business Council (USIBC), a representative body of top American businesses having a footprint in India, told media. "A lot of countries‌Europe have been looking at demonetising their 500 euro note, the US had been always thinking about 100dollar bill. I think, what Prime Minister has done has taken the leadership and the rest of the world will follow in not too long term," said Aghi on the sidelines of the three-day World Hindu Economic Forum meeting that kicked off in Los Angeles on Friday. The USIBC president said
the Prime Minister took such a bold decision even at the risk of political capital. "It is risky politically, but economically on a long-term basis given the wide spectrum of the Indian economy it is the right thing to do. And that is what he has done," Aghi said. He said, however, the key thing is going to be able to bring in circulation of the new currency fast enough. "It is going to be very critical. Because the longer you extend the inconvenience to people the more dissatisfied they would get. But overall we applaud. I think it will send a strong message," Aghi said in response to a question. "I think it is fantastic, because suddenly India's black economy which different (people) estimate between 25 per cent and 40 per cent of the GDP, a lot of that money would come out into the white," he said, adding that this would have an impact on inflation and bringing interest rates down.
Eventually in the long term, Aghi asserted that it is the common consumer which is going to benefit. "Because inflation on food for example would be much more controllable. I think, the interest rates in housing market will come down," he said. Initially, however there is likely to be a slowdown, but then the economic growth would pick up, Aghi said. Meanwhile, the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) at its meeting in Paris over the weekend passed a resolution in support of demonetisation of the highend Indian currency notes so as to curtail the black money and terrorism funding. However, it called upon the Indian government to provide same opportunity for NRIs and PIOs as Indian nationals to deposit up to Rs 2.5 lakhs of Indian currencies in Indian banks in India or outside. The Canada unit of the Overseas Friends of BJP in a statement hailed decision and described this as a decisive action taken against black money, corruption and fake currency circulation. "Modi has demonstrated once again the ability to 'Think the Unthinkable'. He thought the unthinkable in the financial world and by demonetising Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes has acted decisively. It will deal a severe blow to the parallel economy and will disrupt the life tyles of the corrupt leaders, bureaucrats, and businesses, antinational who facilitate terror funding," a statement said. (PTI)
tions and stunning dollar run. Primarily, investors were worried that Trump's policies stance - from protectionism and fiscal expansion - will boost inflation and lead the Federal Reserve to raise interest rates more than expected. US bond yields surged which triggered concerns that a higher interest rates in the US will spark capital outflows from the emerging equity markets. Besides, a mixed trend on other Asian stock markets also influenced the trading momentum in the domestic equity market. I n the week ended, the Sensex fell by 668.58 points, or 2.49 per cent, to settle at 26,150.24 -its lowest level since May 25, 2016. The 30-share
pack has tumbled 1,926.94 points, or 6.86 per cent, in last four weeks. The Nifty 50 index fell 222.20 points, or 2.68 per cent, to end at 8,074.10. The Nifty has also dropped by 618.95 points, or 7.12 per cent, in four weeks. Good news on the macro-economic front brought little respite to the domestic market as both indices -- Sensex and Nifty -- continued their free-fall to log fourth straight weekly loss. Retail inflation dipped to 4.2 per cent in October compared with 4.39 per cent in September, while wholesale inflation also came down to 3.39 per cent in October as against 3.57 per cent in the previous month. (PTI)
Indian economic reform poised to accelerate Indo-US ties: Ed Royce
Congressman Ed Royce Los Angeles, Nov 19: A top American lawmaker has said the economic reforms unleashed by India would not only boost its growth but also accelerate the Indo-US relationship. "Reforms put in place has helped us realised this impressive growth. I see an opportunity here to accelerate this (India-US) relationship," Congressman Ed Royce, Chairman of the powerful House Foreign Relations, told a global meeting of Hindu businesses and entrepreneurs. Royce, a Congressman of 24 years and one of the key founders of House India Caucus, said the Modi Government has taken "impressive steps" to "boost growth; increase and investment" and double export. He said he would continue to strengthen this relationship. The top Republican Congressman was speaking on "the contribution of Hindu entrepreneurs to US economy" at the World Hindu Economic Forum here in Los Angeles. Into its fifth annual event, the World Hindu Economic Forum is an effort to bring Hindu entrepreneurs from across the world together, said its media coordinator Sushil Pundit. Nearly 500 delegates from across five continents have gathered here to cooperate and collaborate globally and help each other with market access, technology, innovation, and competitively priced capital for success in business. Prominent among the participants at this threeday conference are Mohandas Pai, Gururaj (Desh) Deshpande, Vandana Tilak and
Mukesh Aghi. Founded by Swami Vigyananand, the previous WHEF meetings have been held in Hong Kong (2012), Bangkok (2013), New Delhi (2014) and London (2015). "Hinduism is not a stagnant thing. It is something that gets redefines," Deshpande said. "I am hopeful that Hinduism would continuously get redefined‌ My hope is that out of all this one day we would one get a Vivekananda who would come and lead the world and bring about the much needed peace and harmony that the world needs at this time," he said. Addressing the gathering, Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, the first Hindu lawmaker to the US Congress, said there has never been the kind of excitement to realise the full potential of India-US relationship. Gabbard underscored the importance of spirituality and seva by the business and entrepreneur community. "We have an opportunity to make our offerings as actions," she said as she shared her own practice of karma yoga has taught her how to view success. In his remarks, Royce praised the contribution of the Indian-American community and mentioned the two Republican Indian-American Governors Nikki Haley from South Carolina and Bobby Jindal who was the two-term governor of Louisiana. "The contributions made by Indian-Americans have changed the perception the most whether it is the IT sector, whether it was in the hospitality industry, or whether it is in the physicians community," he said. (PTI)
Washington, Nov 19: An influential South-Asian rights group has terminated its ties with a major US airlines alleging that it was carrying out racial and religious profiling of Muslims, Arab and SouthAsian passengers on its flights. "Southwest (Airlines) employees have been racially profiling Muslim, Arab, and South Asian passengers in the last year, including at least five wellpublicised incidents," South-Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT) said yesterday. "One well-covered incident involved kicking a University of California Berkley student off a flight
in April 2016 for saying 'Inshallah' to his father on the phone," it said. "Because the airline has treated our communities like second-class citizens, we have terminated our relationship with Southwest," SAALT said, adding that as a result of this termination it has lost USD 10,000 in grant money from the airlines. SAALT and our partners sent multiple communications to Southwest, including toCEO Gary Kelly, over the last year expressing our concerns. "Disappointingly, all we received was one unsatisfactory response after another," said Suman
Raghunathan, executive director of SAALT. "Southwest made it clear they would issue no apology to the affected passengers nor would it address profiling in their corporate training guidelines and complaint procedures," Raghunathan said. "In short, we saw no effort by Southwest Airlines to establish protection against racial and religious profiling of passengers on its flights. The airline continues to deflect any responsibility for its actions, even as the level of hostility against our communities continues to increase nationwide. So we said 'enough!' and goodbye to Southwest," she said. (PTI)
Haryana launches Voluntary Disclosure Scheme for power consumers The consumer will have the option to deposit the bill amount in lump-sum or in a maximum of six equal bi-monthly installments payable along with the next 6 bills. Chandigarh, Nov 19: Haryana government on Saturday launched a Voluntary Disclosure Scheme (VDS) 2016 for declaring tampered or defective meters for all categories of consumers having sanctioned load up to five KW. The scheme shall remain in operation from November 20 to December 31, 2016, Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar told reporters in Chandigarh on Saturday. The cases of such consumers, who voluntarily declare tampering of meter or meter being defective, shall be decided as per the provisions of the scheme. The chief minister said the consumers would be charged on nominal consumption basis as per their sanctioned load for last one year on current normal tariff only, instead of twice the tariff along with compounding charges. The consumer will have the option to deposit the bill amount in lump-sum or in a maximum of six equal bi-monthly installments payable along with the next 6 bills. In case the consumer opts to pay in lump-sum, additional rebate of 5 per cent will be allowed, Khattar said. The meter installed at the premises shall be replaced with a new electronic meter within three days, he said, adding the cost of the meter would be charged from the consumer, in case the meter is supplied by the Nigam. The consumers, whose meters have been seized and sent for verification to the M and T Lab and are pending for testing, will also have the option to avail
The meter installed at the premises shall be replaced with a new electronic meter within three days, he said, adding the cost of the meter would be charged from the consumer, in case the meter is supplied by the Nigam. this scheme. No further meter testing and investigation will be done in their case. The cases of defective meters, including burnt meters, shall also be covered under the scheme, Khattar said. No checking will be carried out during the period of operation of the scheme for consumers having load up to 5 KW and no meter having similar load will be seized and sent to the lab for testing during this period. The state also launched Surcharge Waiver Scheme- 2016 for small domestic and non-domestic consumers (having sanctioned load up to 2 KW) in rural areas. The scheme will also cover small domestic consumers of up to 2 KW load in urban areas whose connection has been disconnected for nonpayment. The surcharge amount outstanding as on September 30, 2016 in the name of a consumer who opts for the scheme shall be frozen. 40 per cent of this amount will be
waived off on payment of next six bills by the consumer. Another 30 per cent of the surcharge amount will be waived off at the end of second year on full payment of bills during the year and the remaining surcharge amount will be waived off at the end of the third year. He said in case the consumer defaults in the payment of three consecutive bills after opting for the scheme, the frozen surcharge will be revived and restored to the extent of un-waived surcharge amount. He also said that there are large number of consumers, especially in rural areas, who face difficulties in obtaining electricity connection on the ground that default amount stands as per the record against their premises. The consumers, whose cases are at present in court, will not be covered under this scheme. However, if the consumer withdraws the case, this scheme will be applicable. (PTI)
PAN must for cash deposits exceeding Rs 50,000: RBI to banks New Delhi, Nov 19: RBI Wednesday asked banks to ensure customers submit a copy of PAN cardfor any cash deposit exceeding Rs 50,000, if it is not already seeded with the account, to ensure tax rule compliance in the wake of the recent decision to abolish Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes. "With a view to ensuring compliance with provisions of 114B of the Income Tax Rules, 1962, the banks are advised that anybody depositing more than Rs 50,000 in cash in their bank account has to submit a copy of the PAN card in case the bank account is not seeded with PAN," Reserve Bank said in a notification. Besides, RBI has asked banks to insist on their customers to share permanent account number (PAN) for all applicable transactions mandated under the I-T rule.
The RBI directive follows the government order last week withdrawing the legal tender status of highdenomination bank notes -- Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 - specifically. The government had to resort to such a drastic measure in a surprise announcement to curb the menace of black money, check circulation of fake notes as well as deter funding terrorism in the country, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said on November 8. As per 114B under income tax rules, every person is required to quote PAN for all documents pertaining to a time deposit with a bank or cooperative bank, post office, Nidhi or non-banking financial company which is allowed to accept deposits if the amount is more than Rs 50,000 or aggregating over Rs 5 lakh during
during a financial year. Besides, customers also have to furnish PAN details for all transactions related to sale or purchase of motor vehicle/s, opening a bank account, applying a credit or debit card, opening a demat account and the like. If a customer pays over Rs 50,000 in cash for paying hotels bills or travel to a foreign country or buying foreign currency, he has to quote the PAN too. Payment of over Rs 50,000 towards buying a mutual fund, bonds, bank drafts or pay orders and many other transactions also attract the same rules, according to the I-T ruling. The government has been keeping a close vigil on the kind of deposits in bank accounts following the recent order and those who will deposit over Rs 2.5 lakh in cash will be scrutinised. (PTI)
DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20
NATION Cong indulging in fear-mongering, alleges BJP
New Delhi, Nov 19: Accusing Congress of "fearmongering" on demonetisation issue, BJP today rejected the opposition's charge that the manner of its implementation has harmed the common man's interests, saying a government cannot take anti-people step and then go back to them for votes. Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman said people might be facing some problems due to shortage of small denomination currency notes but they are also supporting Prime Minister Narendra Modi's
demonetisation move as it is against black money. She claimed Congress had realised that it lacked substance during the debate on demonetisation in the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday and thus resorted to stalling the House by raising the demand that Modi should be present there. "Congress is trying to create fear in the common man's mind. It is not needed. It is fear-mongering," the Commerce Minister told reporters, responding to the opposition party's claim that it will take seven to eight months for
situation to stabilise. "Which political party will take a step against the people's interest and will go back to the same people for votes," she said on opposition's charge that the manner of implementation of the measure was harming the common man. Asked if there is panic in the government as it kept coming out with new measures, she said there is no panic and the government is alert with Finance Minister Arun Jaitley reviewing the situation every day and taking decisions on the feedback.
The government, she said, had done as much preparatory work as it could and it did the best. Asked if the government is receiving suggestions like lowering the income tax, she said it is getting a lot of views from various quarters. BJP spokesperson G V L Narasimha Rao said Congress was spreading misinformation "either deliberately or without understanding the issue". He also added that there was no need to bring back the same number of currency notes as cancelled as
a lot of it was hoarded as illicit money and will not come back in the financial system. The money cannot be hoarded now as there is a limit to the amount of withdrawal, he said. Asked if the government could have done better in making arrangements to deal with the postdemonetisation demand for cash, he said the more the preparatory work to replace notes had been done, the less secrecy would have been there, defeating the purpose of stamping out black money. (PTI)
Ex-TERI chief R.K. Pachauri 86% voter turnout in 6th phase of West Bengal polls allowed to travel abroad again Kolkata, Nov 19: Over chised for the Assembly
New Delhi, Nov 19: A Delhi court today once again granted permission to former TERI chief R.K. Pachauri, accused in a sexual harassment case, to travel abroad. Mr. Pachauri, currently on bail, was allowed to travel to Dominican Republic from November 22 to December 5 by Metropolitan Magistrate Shivani Chauhan, after he moved an application. The court allowed the application, filed through Mr. Pachauri's counsel Ashish Dixit, noting that the probe was complete and charge sheet has already been filed in the case. "The investigation is complete and charge sheet has already been filed. The accused has been granted permission to travel abroad on several earlier occasions and has complied with the directions given by the court." "In these circumstances, the accused is permitted to travel as per his itinerary... subject to furnishing a local surety of Rs. 2 lakh to the satisfaction of this court," the court said and directed him to give an undertaking that he shall appear in court in person or through counsel and not dispute his identity at a later stage. It also asked him to file a copy of his travel tickets and intimate the court af-
R.K. Pachauri. ter his return or any changes in his travel itinerary. The court had on July 11 granted regular bail to Pachauri and allowed him to travel abroad after he appeared in pursuance to summons. Mr. Pachauri has been allowed by the court to travel over a dozen times to various countries including USA, UK, China, Japan, France, Kazakhstan, Bolivia, Kuwait, Mexico, Somalia and Saudi Arabia, during pendency of probe and proceedings. The former TERI chief was summoned as accused by the court after it took cognisance of the charge sheet filed against him for allegedly sexually harassing an ex-colleague. The court, while taking
cognisance of the charge sheet, had said there was sufficient material to proceed against him under sections 354A (sexual harassment), 354B (assault against woman with intent to disrobe), 354D (stalking), 509 (word, gesture or act intended to insult modesty of woman) and 341 (wrongful confinement) of the IPC. The charge sheet, filed by Delhi Police on March 1 last year, had arrayed 23 prosecution witnesses, many of whom are present and former employees of The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). Mr. Pachauri was granted an anticipatory bail in the case on March 21 last year and an FIR lodged against him on February 13 last year. (PTI)
86 per cent voter turnout was recorded in the sixth and last phase of polling for the West Bengal Assembly election on Thursday. In Cooch Behar district 86.05 per cent electorate had cast their votes, while in East Midnapore the figure was 87.17 per cent, the Election Commission (EC) announced today. The overall average in the sixth phase was 86.76 per cent for 25 seats in the two districts, where 58 lakh people were enfran-
elections. All the phases of the election have seen over 80 per cent turnout. The fifth phase had recorded 81.66 per cent, fourth phase 81.25 per cent, third phase 82.28 per In the two parts of phase one of polling, held on April 4 and April 11, the final turnout was 84.22 per cent and 83.73 per cent respectively, according to the EC.Results of the Assembly elections will be declared on May 19. (PTI)
Shatrughna Singh sworn in as Uttarakhand CIC Dehradun, Nov 19: Former chief secretary of Uttarakhand, Shatrughna Singh was today swornin as the state's Chief Information Commissioner. Singh was administered the oath of office by Governor K K Paul at Raj Bhawan auditorium in the presence of Chief Minister Harish Rawat. Prominent among those who attended the swearing-in was BJP MP from Haridwar Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank,
Mussoorie MLA Ganesh Joshi, Uttarakhand's new Chief Secretary S Ramaswamy and DGP M A Ganpati. A 1983 batch IAS officer, Singh had recently taken voluntary retirement from the post of Chief Secretary before his superannuation in December this year. The CIC's post was laying vacant for a year since N S Napalchayal stepped down in 2015 after completing his five-year term. (PTI)
Pakistan violates ceasefire in Rajouri, Sunderbani sectors
People in Kashmir resume normal life after four months Jammu, Nov 19: The city along with rest of Kashmir was buzzing with activity on Saturday with offices, shops and other business establishments opening in the Valley which saw a return to normalcy after 133 days of shutdown as separatists suspended their stir for the weekend. The situation has been by and large peaceful over the last few weeks in the Valley, which had been hit by clashes between violent protesters and security forces following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen militant Burhan Wani in an encounter on July 8. The unrest had left 86 people dead and many others, including 5,000 security personnel, injured.
Shops, offices, business establishments and fuel stations opened this morning for a full day for the first time since the unrest began. While some had started opening earlier defying the separatists, others did business few hours on some days of the week whenever relaxation in the strike was announced. There was massive traffic on the roads in Srinagar - the summer capital - as public transport resumed fully and people came out to carry out their day to day activities on Saturday. The authorities had increased the presence of traffic personnel on the roads to manage the traffic. Similar reports of people resuming their normal life
were received from most of the other district headquarters of the Valley. With the start of Board exams for classes 10 and 12 this week, life in the Valley had been gradually returning to normalcy. The authorities last night restored mobile internet services on postpaid numbers due to improvement in the situation. However, such facility on prepaid numbers continued to remain snapped and there is no word yet on their restoration. The separatists have been issuing weekly protest programmes. They had for the first time announced a two-day relaxation in the strike beginning Saturday. (Agencies)
Demonetization: 2 die over failure to get notes exchanged in Aligarh Aligarh, Nov 19: Two persons have died in separate incidents in the district allegedly over their inability to exchange the scrapped high-denomination notes after the Central government's demonetization move. In the first incident, 50year-old Babu Lal, a resident of Nagla Mansingh in Aligarh, died due to heart attack after failing to exchange old currency notes despite making persistent efforts at different banks since the past three
days, family sources said. The victim was under tremendous pressure as his daughter's wedding was slated for November 26, they said. Babu Lal complained of chest pain after returning from a bank on Friday. He was rushed to the hospital, where he was declared brought dead. In another incident, Mohammed Idrees (45), a resident of Jamalpur locality under Civil Lines police station, died of heart attack while he was on his
way to a bank to exchange old currency on Friday, his family claimed. They alleged that Idrees had no bank account, but he was making rounds of a local bank to exchange old notes since the past four days. Local SP legislator Zameer Ullah Khan said both the incidents were connected with the "shock and frustration over failure to get currency notes exchanged" and demanded proper compensation for their families. (PTI)
Image for representation purpose. Jammu, Nov 19: Pakistan Army today targeted several posts and civilian areas along the LoC in Nowshera and Sunderbani sectors of Rajouri district with mortars and small arms fire, drawing retaliation from Indian troops. The firing in Sunderbani is the second ceasefire violation by the Pakistani side in less than six hours. Earlier today Pakistan Army violated the ceasefire in Nowshera sector and in the afternoon they started firing in Sunderbani sector targeting Indian posts and civilian areas. "Pakistan Army resorted to unprovoked ceasefire vio-
lation in Nowshera sector from 1030 hours using 120 mm mortars and small arms fire.Our army is giving a befitting response to Pakistani fire," a Defence Spokesman said. He said there has been no loss of life, injury or damage to property reported so far even as the exchange of firing continued. "Pakistan Army resorted to ceasefire violation in Sunderbani sector using 120 mm mortars, automatic and small arms from 1410 hrs," the spokesman said. "Our troops are giving a befitting response," the spokesman said. (PTI)
Priest lights his own 'funeral pyre'; dead Mumbai, Nov 19: A 60year-old priest in a village in Marathwada region of Maharashtra died after allegedly lighting his own funeral pyre, police said today. Vithal Pole was the priest at a Hanuman temple in Suegaon village of Hingoli
district, police said. He lived on the temple premises. This morning, villagers saw smoke billowing from the temple and found Pole burnt to death. He apparently lighted his own funeral pyre, police said. Further probe is on. (PTI)
P8 Demonetisation to bring probity in politics, govt: Rajnath
Home Minister Rajnath Singh New Delhi, Nov 19: Hailing the Centre's move to demonetise Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes, Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said the action will bring probity in political and administrative works besides reducing the gap between rich and poor. There are some hardships being faced by the people
following the demonetisation but this will continue for a short time only as the government is putting in all efforts with full sensitivity to normalise the situation, he said. "Naturally, this decision will result in curbing economic sources of corrupt and terrorists. It will also increase probity in politi-
cal and administrative works," Singh said. This move will also help in reducing the gap between rich and poor people, he said. The Home Minister said the central government decided to demonetise Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes with an aim to rein in corruption, black money and terrorism. "It is a historical and brave decision taken for national interest. Terrorism, extremism and naxalism will come down. Such decisions are taken by people who are doing politics not only for formation of government but also for society and nation building," he said. Singh said the way people have welcomed the decision of demonetisation and provided cooperation and support, it is commendable. (PTI)
Civilians assisting cops in managing queues at banks, ATMs New Delhi, Nov 19: More than 250 civilians have been assisting police personnel in southwestern range in managing long queues outside banks and ATMs as part of the 'Police Mitra' initiative by Delhi Police, which will be formally launched on Saturday. In the southwestern range, comprising west and southwest districts, 294 civilians, including 49 women, have been deputed outside banks and ATMs which are being thronged by people after the Centre demonetised of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes. "West and southwest districts have 166 and 128
'Police Mitras' respectively. The scheme will be formally launched today but they have been helping our staff for the last few days. They help in pacifying people in queues," said Dependra Pathak, Joint Commissioner of police (Southwest). The southwest range is the first to roll out the initiative and other districts will follow suit in the next few weeks. Delhi Police Commissioner Alok Kumar Verma had last month issued standing orders to implement the initiative. Under the initiative, every police station will have civilian volunteers, whose
number will depend on the area, and they will be help police in crime prevention and establishing a better public-police interface. Those with "good social record" will be enrolled. Their job will be to help police in addressing issues like drug addiction, maintaining communal harmony in the area. The idea was suggested by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Directors General of Police and Inspectors General conference last year where he had stressed that police forces should work on bridging the gap between them and the society.(PTI)
Burning of schools akin to 'digging own grave': BJP Jammu, Nov 19: The BJP today said that the people responsible for burning of schools in Kashmir were "digging their own graves", as the arson in the centres of learning amounts to cutting roots of human civilisation. "Burning schools as part of ongoing protest in the Valley has startled human souls. It tantamount to digging own grave", BJP state spokesman S S Bijral said here today. He said that the masterminds of ongoing agitation in Kashmir have so far
torched 36 schools across the Valley. "One is left aghast and wondering what the masterminds of Valley violence aim at by targeting centres of learning, that too of government, built through scarce public funds", Bijral said. He said that the state was a blessed one where education institutional network was extensive. The former chief minister Late Sheikh Mohammed Adbullah who was a teacher himself, spread out the net-
work of schools and introduced a policy of establishing one school after every two kilometres. "These schools are because of strenuous effort of locals. Torching these is savage and most reprehensible.It amounts to cutting roots of human civilisation. The local people protected them against vandalism," he said. Referring to Islamic scriptures, Bijral said that education was imperative for human progress. (PTI)
One crore in scrapped Rs. 1,000 notes seized; 4 detained in Mumbai A case has been registered at Vashi Police Station today and further probe is on, police added. Mumbai, Nov 19: One crore, in demonetised Rs. 1,000 currency notes, was seized from a luxury car at Vashi in Navi Mumbai and four persons were detained in this connection, police said on Saturday. "Acting on a tip-off, police laid a trap. When the car came and halted near a housing complex at Sector 28 in Vashi last evening, the police team checked the vehicle and found two bags full of currency notes of Rs 1,000 denomination," an official release by Navi Mumbai Po-
lice said. The four occupants of the vehicle, Prasad R Patil (36), an estate agent from Uran in Raigad district, Harishchandra Shinde (60), builder from Kharghar in Navi Mumbai, Pramod Padle (43), property agent and Avinash Jail (31), a cloth merchant, both from Byculla in Mumbai, have been detained and are being interrogated, Inspector Ashok Rajput said. During interrogation, the accused said they had come to Vashi to get the old notes
exchanged, but did not reveal the source of the cash and where they planned to get the notes exchanged, police claimed. "As the four persons did not provide any documentary evidence of the source of the cash, the Income Tax Department has been informed about it. Their car worth Rs. 10 lakh has also been seized," they added. A case has been registered at Vashi Police Station today and further probe is on, police added. (PTI)
Demonetisation: DMK to organise human chain on November 24 against Centre Chennai, Nov 19: DMK will organise a human chain in all district headquarters on November 24 to condemn the Centre and the State government for their failure to make contingency measures to overcome demonetisation of Rs. 500 and Rs 1000 currency notes and to highlight the sufferings of people. Party leader M. Karunanidhi in a statement
said the protest will be held between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. and called upon traders, workers and farmers to take part in the event. DMK's district secretaries will lead the human chain. "There seems to be no end to the suffering of the people caused by the abolition of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes without adequate arrangements. The poor and daily wagers are standing in queue for
hours and traders are severely affected by lack of smaller denomination of currenides," he said. Mr. Karunanidhi said even though the Oppposition leaders raised the issue in Parliament, Prime Minister Narendra Modi did not bother to response to their concerns. "In Tamil Nadu the state government also failed to make any arrangments to help the people," he alleged. (Agencies)
DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20
EDUCATION
Few career options for Commerce Graduates While the BFSI sector is the major employer for commerce graduates, opportunities are growing across key segments such as IT, healthcare, BPO/ITeS, e-commerce and startups. Here are some of the emerging career options commerce graduates can consider:
Financial analysis Financial analysts are sought-after in the IT, manufacturing, banking, consulting, BPO and KPO sectors. The job profile includes managing accounting transactions and system interfaces into the general ledger and providing analytic support to business initiatives. Skills required: Analytical and problem-solving skills are essential along with knowledge of SAP Average salary: Rs 35 lakh per annum
Financial planning
Financial planners predominantly work in the financial services sectors of banking, insurance, financial and investment consulting services. The job requires preparing financial plans and coordinating with sales teams to understand the client requirements/ goals to create suitable plans. Additionally, financial planners also need to coordinate with their organisation's research team to understand the market and various products that are offered to their clients. Skills required: Financial planning, communication and leadership Average salary: Rs 2.5-5 lakh per annum Market research Professionals in this field are required to conduct secondary research, compile, manage and analyse data. Currently, sectors such as IT/ telecom, BFSI, manufacturing and healthcare are offering numerous opportunities in this area. Skills required: Logical and analytical skills, creativity (in terms of presenting data in a graphical format), proficiency
in MS Excel and PowerPoint Average salary: Rs 35 lakh per annum
Digital media Students interested in pursuing a career in digital media strategy can pursue a short course in the same along with a commerce degree. The job of a digital media strategist includes creating and managing digital content (audio, visual, text). It requires a good mix of communications skills and technical knowledge. Skills required: Design skills, ability to create and manage digital media promotions and ad campaigns with research and analytical competencies Average salary: Rs 3-6.5 lakh per annum Sales & marketing With business expansion on the cards across key sectors, sales and marketing executives are in huge demand especially in the banking/in-
surance, IT and manufacturing sectors.
lem-solving, analytical and reasoning skills
Profiles in the sales industry typically require creating leads, networking, building and managing database of clients and customers. Within marketing, the focus today is on digital marketing over traditional marketing.
Average salary: Rs 2-5 lakh per annum
Skills required: Aspirants with good communication and interpersonal skills are desired Average salary: Rs 36 lakh per annum (plus incentives)
Data analytics The role of data analysts has become increasingly critical in business sustenance. Not only IT but non-IT sectors (including BFSI) are also hiring data analysts in large numbers. Data analysts collect and interpret data, analyse results and create reports. Interested graduates can take up a short course or diploma in emerging niche roles. Skills required: Prob-
P9
Top 4 Best Commerce Colleges In India 2015 Rank College Name
Shri Ram College of Commerce
Social work The non-profit/ NGO sector is growing at a fast pace in India. Commerce graduates can look for opportunities in fundraising departments and business development teams where they can utilise their accounting, finance and economic skills. Skills required: Problem-solving, communication and time management Average salary: Rs 1.5-3 lakh per annum
Lady Shri Ram College for Women
Loyola College, Chennai
Besides the above, commerce graduates can prepare and appear for the exams held for the positions of probationary officers (PO) and clerical jobs conducted by nationalised banks. Lastly, BCom graduates can also opt for higher education - MCom, MBA, CA and CFA courses to increase their career prospects.
Enhancing skills
Christ University, Bangalore
Exam aid
What it takes to clear the IAS Exam AK Mishra
In a competitive corporate world, employers are always on the lookout for candidates who can deliver more than what is expected out of them. In keeping with this trend, students are now pursuing specialised certificate courses alongside their degree programmes to develop specialised skills that will complement their academic qualifications.
Subject covered: Data type, operators, control statements, iterative statements, arrays, strings, structures, pointers, methods, recursion, file handling, classes, objects, inheritance, overloading, virtual function, static function, handling, multithreading, applets, introduction to J2EE, looping, strings, lists , dictioneries, tuples, OOPs, classes, inheritance, etc.
Students who wish to pursue such Eligibility: These courses in the field of courses are available IT can consider the for beginners or profollowing options: fessionals from other fields who wish to learn various programming language. For Java related courses, one needs to Courses available: have prior knowledge C programming, C++, of C++ or OOPs. Core Java and Python
Programming Courses
Duration: Four to eight weeks
Duration: weeks
knowledge of operatSix ing systems
Web TechSystem Adnology ministration Courses available: ASP.Net with Courses availVB, ASP.Net with C#, able: System adminJ2EE, PHP with istration under linux, MySQL system administration windows server Subject covered: Web server controls, Subject covered: HTML, classes and objects, server obCommands, shell jects, sessions, cook- and AWK programies, ASP objects, man- ming, user adminisaging user sessions tration, file system and applications, data administration, disk interface, C# coding, quota administration, event handling, network administraJDBC, RMI, JSP, da- tion, different servers tabase, beans, basics, like mail server, file PHP-MySQL con- server, installation nectivity, etc. and user administration, MMC, IIS, acEligibility: Candi- tive directory serdates must know ba- vices, etc. sic computer concepts and a programEligibility: Candiming language dates should have
Duration: Four to six weeks Apart from these, students can also opt for courses in software testing and android programming. Software testing course require candidates to have basic knowledge of C programming and database. The android programming course enables the learner to create applications using SQLite database. The course covers Java, client-server application development using Java, web component developer (WCD), struts 2.0 and android. Both the courses spread across three months.
Getting through civil services examination is the dream of many aspirants. A candidate who gets into the Indian Administrative Services gets exposure to diverse roles such as that of a commissioner, chief secretary, collector, cabinet secretary or can head public sector units. The opportunity to bring about positive changes in the lives of millions draws aspirants' to the career. It is therefore no surprise that close to four and a half lakh students appear for the UPSC examination each year. However, only a few hundred candidates manage to crack the exam. So it becomes imperative to understand what are those qualities that set those few apart from the rest?
Self-discipline A strong sense of selfdiscipline is essentially required and key to success in achieving any goal. IAS preparation may involve 912 months of intensive study and this cannot be achieved without having a set routine. Good management and optimal
utilisation of the time are the essential components of self-discipline. There are many parts of general studies that are important in clearing the CSE; however, a deep understanding of sociology is important if you're looking to clear IAS. Self-discipline does not imply studying the prescribed course books every day. Aspirants should have burning desire to know what's happening in the world around them and keep themselves abreast with the news on magazines, television and newspapers. Needless to say, a keen interest in reading is also a great quality to have for IAS aspirants.
Leadership Through all the three stages of examination, UPSC primarily checks a candidate's leadership quality. Coherent and organic approach to preparation will get candidates through the preliminary (stage I) and main (stage II) but the interview will observe the candidate's personality. IAS officers should be endowed with an ability to articulate their
point of view to their superiors and peers conclusively besides having a high emotional intelligence. They are goal-oriented and able to influence others to devote themselves to the same goal. This is what makes the dynamic and effective leaders in their unique field of work. To exhibit traits of a good leader, aspirants should have good interpersonal as well as communication skills.
Strong Resolve Even before starting their preparation, candidates start scoping their chances of getting through the examination, which proves to be a deterring factor for most of the aspirants. Hence, it's pertinent to stamp out this mental block before preparation. An aspiring IAS candidate should have strong resolve to become an officer and influence the lives of his/her countrymen. It would also be futile to engage yourself in preparation due to peer pressure or your parent's insistence. (The author is director, Chanakya IAS Academy)
DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20
INTERNATIONAL
P10
Dalai Lama preaches in Malaysia: Protesters demand resignation Mongolia, risking China's fury of PM Najib Razak over graft Ulaanbaatar, Nov 19: The Dalai Lama preached today to thousands of supporters in Mongolia, on a visit set to test the country's ties with China at a time when it is seeking a critical aid package from its powerful neighbour. The exiled Tibetan spiritual leader addressed followers at the Gandantegchenlin monastery and spoke about materialism to kickstart a four-day visit that Mongolia has said will be purely religious in nature and won't include meetings with officials. Still, the trip could have repercussions for landlocked Mongolia's relationship with China, which briefly closed its border with Mongolia in 2002 to protest a visit by the Dalai Lama. China views the Dalai Lama as a separatist seeking to split Tibet from China and strongly opposes all countries from hosting the monk, who has been based in India
Reformist group Bersih, whose colour is yellow, turned out in huge numbers for the second time in 15 months despite a police ban on the rally and the arrest of 17 activists so far.
Dalai Lama since fleeting Tibet during an abortive uprising against Chinese rule in 1959. Yesterday, China's Foreign Ministry strongly urged Mongolia to deny the Dalai Lama a visit for the sake of a "sound and steady" development of bilateral ties. The Dalai Lama's visit comes at a time when Mongolian leaders are seeking a US $4.2 billion loan from Beijing to pull the country out of a deep recession. Mongolian Buddhism is closely tied to Tibet's
strain and many in the heavily Buddhist country revere the Dalai Lama, who made his first visit in 1979. Mongolian religious figures say the visit could be the last for the 81-year-old spiritual leader, and some of his followers traveled hundreds of miles to see him while braving the coldest November temperatures in a decade. The Dalai Lama is scheduled to chant special sutras tomorrow at a large sports facility built by Chinese companies through Chinese aid. (Agencies)
Kuala Lumpur, Nov 19: Tens of thousands of antigovernment protesters, clad in yellow t-shirts, gathered in the Malaysian capital on Saturday seeking Prime Minister Najib Razak's resignation over graft allegations. Reformist group Bersih, whose colour is yellow, turned out in huge numbers for the second time in 15 months despite a police ban on the rally and the arrest of 17 activists so far. Those detained so far included Bersih chairman Maria Chin Abdullah, Mandeep Singh, an ethnic Indian Bersih group activist besides Red Shirts leader Jamal Yunos. Deputy Prime minister
Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is also the Home Minister, warned more protesters could be arrested. Police blocked at least 60 roads across the city and put up barricades at entry points in downtown Kuala Lumpur. Water canon trucks and security personnel have been deployed around the downtown areas. The Bersih tweeted that police raided its office on Friday and detained its chairwoman Maria Chin. "Despite the authorities' desperate measures to stop us, (the rally) will go on," the group tweeted. Ruling party politician Jamal Yunos, who planned to lead a counter rally, also
Ranil Wickremesinghe made the remarks while presenting the reports of six sub-committees to the Constitutional Assembly.
Sri Lankan prime minister Ranil Wickremesinghe.
Colombo, Nov 19: Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe on Saturday assured Parliament the new Constitution will be drafted in consultation with all political parties and people would get a chance to approve it. Wickremesinghe made the remarks while presenting the reports of six sub-committees to the Constitutional Assembly. The sub-committees were appointed to look into matters pertaining to the new Constitution. The sub-committees deliberated on different areas of Constitutional provisions and will report to the main Steering Committee. Leader of the Opposition and Tamil National Alliance (TNA) leader R Sampanthan also said the Constitution needs to be approved in a nationwide referendum. He said people must be given the chance to take part in the
process and "people must be asked to approve it (Constitution)". The new Constitution will replace the current executive president headed constitution adopted in 1978. The government expects the new Constitution to address the demand of Tamil minorities for political recognition. With the defeat of the Tamil Tigers in 2009 the Tamil groups have opted for maximum devolution as opposed to LTTE's goal of a separate Tamil homeland. Wickremesinghe, while presenting the reports, also voiced support for the Constitution to be finally approved by the people. He said the final form of the constitution was yet to be determined and one of the contentious issues was the position of the executive president. "We have to consider if
A man rides a motorbike past a house destroyed during recent battles between Houthi fighters and pro-government fighters in the southwestern city of Taiz, Yemen. Riyadh, Nov 19: A Saudiled coalition supporting Yemen's government against Iran-backed rebels declared a 48-hour ceasefire to begin in Yemen Saturday, it said in a statement on the kingdom's SPA news agency website. "It has been decided to begin a 48-hour ceasefire from 12:00 noon in Yemen's timing (0900 GMT) on Saturday," the coalition statement said, adding that the truce could be renewed if the Houthi rebels and their allies abide by the deal and allow aid deliveries to besieged cities. The coalition announcement followed a request for a ceasefire by Yemen's President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi -- himself based in Riyadh -- to Saudi King Salman, the statement said. "Coalition forces will abide by the ceasefire", it said, but warned that should the rebels or troops loyal to former president Ali Abdullah Saleh make any military moves in the area the coalition would respond. The naval and air "blockade" will also remain in place and surveillance jets
will continue to fly over Yemen, it added. The coalition has been militarily supporting forces loyal to Hadi's government since March 2015. There was no word yet from the rebels on whether they would abide by the new truce. US secretary of state John Kerry had announced a ceasefire that was to have taken effect on Thursday, but there was intense fighting Friday, eliminating hopes of warring parties abiding by the truce. The US chief diplomat had said after meeting with Houthi negotiators in Oman that they were ready to observe the ceasefire plan, but Hadi's government said it was not aware of any new peace initiative. Since Thursday, more than 50 people have been killed in clashes between the rebels and loyalists on the outskirts of the third biggest city Taez, medical and military sources said. The United Nations says more than 7,000 people have been killed and nearly 37,000 wounded in Yemen since the Arab coalition began its military campaign last year. (Agencies)
IMF approves $162 milIraqi troops face stiff resistance lion loan to Sri Lanka
from IS in eastern Mosul
Mosul, Nov 19: A senior military commander says Iraqi troops are facing stiff resistance from Islamic State militants as they push deeper into eastern Mosul. Maj Gen Sami alAridi of the Iraqi special forces says his troops moved early today morning into the Muharabeen and Ulama neighborhoods after fully liberating the adjacent Tahrir neighborhood yesterday. Al-Aridi said IS militants are fighting back with snipers, rocket-propelled grenades and mortar rounds. Thick black columns of smoke were seen billowing from the two areas. The offensive to retake
A car bomb explodes next to Iraqi special forces armored vehicles as they advance towards Islamic State held territory in Mosul.
IS-held Mosul, which was launched on October 17, is the biggest military operation in Iraq since American troops left in 2011.
If successful, the retaking of Mosul would be the strongest blow dealt to IS' self-styled caliphate stretching into Syria. (Agencies)
was detained. Authorities had banned the holding of both rallies - by anti-government and progovernment supporters. Prime Minister Najib, who is attending an Asia-Pacific summit in Peru, has remained unmoved by re-
ports of graft allegations against him involving the indebted 1 Malaysia Development Berhad (1 MDB) state fund that he founded. 1 MDB is at the centre of investigations in the US and several other countries. In a statement on his blog,
Saudi-led Arab coalition Dutch Expert: Islamic State Has declares 48-hour truce 60-80 Operatives in Europe in Yemen New York, Nov 19: Intel- "We have seen 294 terror- psychological help if
People will get chance to approve Constitution: Sri Lanka PM Ranil Wickremesinghe the change of the presidential system would lead to instability," Wickremesinghe said. "No party has a majority in the House so this will have to be an all political party effort and at the end of it we will give people the chance to approve it," he said. Leader of the Joint Opposition Dinesh Gunawardana said their group had submitted a 14point plan. He asserted that they would not agree on diluting the unitary nature of the state or diluting the position given to the majority religion of Buddhism. "We would not agree to any bulldozing of the process. Things must not be done in a hurry," he said. The current government in a pre-election pledge in the January 2015 presidential election said constitutional reforms would be a key item in its reform agenda. A 21-member steering committee consisting of parliamentarians from across all political parties has been set up. The government's Constitutional reform process began in January this year. The whole Parliament was converted into a Constitutional assembly with cross-party participation. (PTI)
Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak.
Najib called Bersih "deceitful" and said it has become a tool for opposition parties to unseat a democratically elected government. Human rights group Amnesty International called for the immediate release of the Bersih activists. In his biggest political crisis since he took power in 2009, massive street rallies were held against Najib in August calling for his resignation after documents leaked in July suggested that about USD 681 million was deposited in his private bank accounts from entities linked to indebted state investment fund 1 MDB. Najib has denied any wrong doing. (PTI)
Colombo, Nov 19: The IMF has approved a loan of USD 162 million to Sri Lanka under its programme to aid the government's reform programme which aims to promote inclusive growth. The announcement came as the Sri Lankan parliament on Friday approved its 2017 budget which aims to boost tax revenue. "The reinstatement of the amendments to the value added tax will help boost revenues, while the 2017 budget proposal should strengthen government finances," the IMF said in a statement. Sri Lanka was approved a three-year extended arrangement by the IMF in June valued about USD 1.45 billion subjected to the government's reform programme, supported by
the IMF which aims to reduce the fiscal deficit, rebuild foreign exchange reserves, and introduce a simpler, more equitable tax system to restore macroeconomic stability and promote inclusive growth. Following the Executive Board's discussion of the review, the IMF's Tao Zhang, Acting Chair and Deputy Managing Director, said, "While inflation has abated, credit growth remains strong." The central bank indicates its readiness to tighten the monetary policy stance further if inflationary pressures resurge or credit growth persists. The authorities intend to continue building up reserves through outright purchases while allowing for greater exchange rate flexibility, the IMF said. (PTI)
ligence experts estimate that the Islamic State extremist group has between 60 and 80 operatives planted in Europe to carry out attacks, the Dutch counterterrorism coordinator said Friday. Dick Schoof said in an interview with The Associated Press that would-be fighters are also heeding messages from the militant group "asking them not to come to Syria and Iraq, but to prepare attacks in Europe." One result is that over the last six months the number of "foreign terrorist fighters" hasn't grown, he said, but the fact that they're not traveling "does not mean that the potential threat of those who would have traveled is diminished." Schoof said military operations to oust the Islamic State from its self-declared caliphate in Syria and Iraq are scattering the extremist group's fighters and supporters. This will probably lead to a gradual increase of refugees that will pose a danger to the national security of the Netherlands and other European countries, he said. Schoof said even though the Netherlands hasn't been hit by a major attack by Islamic extremists such as those in Belgium and France, "the chance of attack in the Netherlands is real."
ist fighters go overseas in Iraq and Syria and there are still 190 over there," he said. "And what happened in France and Brussels and Germany could happen to us." There are probably between 4,000 and 5,000 European "foreign terrorist fighters" in Iraq and Syria, Schoof said. While the number from the Netherlands, a nation of 17 million people, may seem low, he said, "whether there's 190 or 350, I think the number is big enough to worry." Schoof, who was in New York to speak at a roundtable on "returning foreign terrorist fighters," said the Netherlands' program to deal with the threat balances "repression and prevention" and relies on strong cooperation between local and national authorities. On the "repression" side, he said, fighters returning from Syria or Iraq are taken into custody and prosecuted, and courts have recently handed down six-year prison sentences in several cases. The government also takes away passports, freezes assets, and has beefed up security measures and the police force, he said. On the prevention side, Schoof said, there's a lot of family support, with local authorities deciding the best interventions and providing education and
needed - but there also could be arrests. Jozias van Aartsen, the mayor of The Hague, said building trust and having close relations with the Muslim community is very important. "They are Dutch citizens," he said. "There are some in the Netherlands who say shut down mosques. That's absolutely wrong policy." But Van Aartsen said there is a need for vigilance. "The apparatus of local government can be very important as a watchdog against radicalization," he said. Schoof stressed that the Netherlands does not tolerate "anti-democratic behavior." "We try to prevent hate preachers coming in by not giving them a visa," he said. The government is also concerned about the development of an ultraconservative strain of Islam known as Salafism, he said. Last week, Schoof said, the Federation of Mosques, without any urging, sent a letter to all mosques in the country saying "the mosques themselves must realize that hate speech should not be accepted in the mosques." "Those are important signals that you can build on in your trust relationships," he said. (Agencies)
Pakistan bans two militant outfits Islamabad, Nov 19: Pakistan has banned two militant groups linked with the Taliban and AlQaeda for their involvement in several terror attacks across the country. Jamaat-ul-Ahrar, a splinter group of the Tehreeki-Taliban Pakistan, and Lashkar-i-Jhangvi Al-Alami (LeJ) were banned after recent deadly attacks in Balochistan and Sindh provinces, including last week's assault at a sufi shrine in Balochistan that killed over 50 people. A spokesman for the interior ministry said the decision to ban them was made only a few days ago, Dawn reported.Referring to a revised list of banned groups available on the website of the National Counter Terrorism Authority,
a top official in Sindh's security establishment said, "The two outfits were added to the list on November 11." A security official said the government banned them once it became clear that they were not ready to shun violence. The list also shows that Jamaat-ud Dawa has been listed since January 17, 2007 as group "under observation", which means its status can be changed as "banned" if there was enough evidence that it was involved in violence.However, both Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaishe-Mohammad have been listed as banned entities since January 14, 2002. The LeJ, a Sunni terrorist outfit, has roots in Punjab province and has a history of carrying out sectarian
attacks in Balochistan, particularly against the minority Shias. The group recently claimed that it killed 61 people, mostly young cadets, during an attack on a police training center in Quetta, the capital of the restive Balochistan province, in one of the deadliest terror attacks in Pakistan. Two LeJ militants were recently arrested for killing Amjad Sabri, one of Pakistan's finest Sufi Qawwals, in a sectarian attack in June. Jamaat-ul-Ahrar had claimed responsibility for a suicide attack at the governmentrun Civil Hospital in Quetta in August that had killed at least 75 people, mostly lawyers, and injured 115 others. (PTI)
Bodies of Karachi airport attack militants to be exhumed Islamabad, Nov 19: Pakistani authorities will next week exhume bodies of ten attackers involved in Karachi airport attack that took place two years ago. A medical board, under the supervision of a judicial officer, will exhume the bodies of 10 unidentified attackers buried at the graveyard run by the Edhi Foundation on November 22. The decision followed after a judicial magistrate in Karachi directed the health authorities
to constitute a medical board since police moved court for the exhumation of the bodies for DNA testing. The four-member medical team will collect samples for DNA tests to establish the identity of the killed assailants. Around 10 heavily armed militants stormed Karachi airport in June, 2014 and were killed by army commandos and personnel of other security forces during an operation lasting about five hours.
They were buried at an Edhirun cemetery and their identity remained unknown. Around 25 people, including personnel of the Airport Security Force, police and Rangers, were killed in the audacious gun-and-explosive attack. Three men are facing trial before an anti-terrorism court for allegedly providing logistic support, funds and weapons to the attackers. (PTI)
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DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20
P11 Forlan fires Mumbai to the top Ashwin's Fifer, Virat's 56 Help with hat-trick against Kerala India Take 298 run lead on Day 3
Ashwin's Fifer, Virat's 56 Help India Take 298 run lead on Day 3
Mumbai, Nov 19 : Mumbai City FC brushed aside Kerala Blasters FC 5-0 in front of more than 7,000 fans at the Mumbai Football Arena on Saturday evening. Two goals from Diego Forlan gave Mumbai a 2-0 first-half lead. The Uruguayan legend completed his hattrick shortly after the hour mark before goals from Cafu and Lucian Goian provided the icing to the cake as Alexandre Guimaraes’ men went to the summit of Hero Indian Super League 2016. The hosts took the lead five minutes into the game after Forlan found himself in on goal courtesy of a brilliant through-ball by Matias Defederico. Mumbai’s marquee man ran onto the pass and executed a clinical first-time finish to give his side the lead. Forlan tried his luck from range soon after but this time his effort was parried
behind for a corner by Graham Stack in Kerala’s goal. Stack was helpless in the 14th minute though when Forlan executed a direct free-kick from just outside the box to perfection, making it 2-0 for Mumbai inside 15 minutes. Mumbai kept dominating possession as the Blasters struggled to get into the match. Forlan had another shot from range on the half hour mark, which took a slight deflection before being saved by Stack. Kerala had an opportunity to pull one back five minutes before the break when Didier Boris Kadio attempted a lob from the edge of the box. His effort had Amrinder Singh scrambling in goal. However, it just went above the crossbar to the relief of the Mumbai shot-stopper. Antonio German shot wide with his right foot from just outside the area two minutes later as the visi-
RSM Classic: Birdies Dry up on Back Nine, but Anirban Lahiri Moves up to T-36
Anirban Lahiri
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PTI St Simons Island, Nov 19: India's Anirban Lahiri looked all set to go low as he went three-under through the front nine at the RSM Classic golf tournament here. Lahiri, four-under for the first day, must have been looking for a really low score to get somewhere closer to upper part of the leader board in a tournament that has produced very good scoring. But on the back nine, the birdies dried up and the next one did not come till the very last hole, the 18th, at the Sea Island Resort's Seaside Course. In between he dropped a bogey on 13th. So he ended at 69 and is now seven-under 135 and in Tied-36th place, which was still five spots above where he was after first day. This is Lahiri's third start on PGA in the new sea-
son after the tied third finish in CIMB Classic and T-28 in Mayakoba. Meanwhile, Mackenzie Hughes, who is just five events into his rookie season on the PGA, took the 36-hole lead. Hughes had another bogey-free round yesterday and took care of the par 5s on the Plantation Course for a 5-under 67, giving him a two-shot lead over another rookie, former World No. 1 amateur, C T Pan going into the weekend. Hughes was at 14-under 128. Pan is also a rookie, and can take inspiration from rookie Cody Gribble winning in Mississippi three weeks ago. Hughes and Pan both spent last year on the Web.com Tour to earn their cards. Tournament host Davis Love III and Sea Island neighbours Zach Johnson and Matt Kuchar missed the cut.
tors went in for the halftime interval two goals down. Thongkhosiem Haokip was introduced as a substitute at the start of the second half and the youngster caught the eye immediately. Mumbai nearly added a third in the 51st minute thanks to another direct free-kick from a threatening position. Forlan’s attempt had beaten Stack in goal but went tantalisingly wide of the target as the score remained 2-0 in favour of the hosts. Defederico then cut in from the right flank and beat two defenders before getting his shot away in the 57th minute. However, Stack came off his line quickly and narrowed down the angle for the Argentine to keep his side in the game with a strong save. CK Vineeth shot goalwards in the 62nd minute after a Kerala corner made
its way to him at the far post. However, his shot on target was well saved by Amrinder. Mumbai sealed the points a minute later as Forlan scored his third of the night as well as the first hat-trick of the season. A poor clearance by Kerala’s defence was pounced on by Cafu inside the penalty area. The Brazilian midfielder passed to Forlan, who finished in composed fashion through Stack’s legs to make it 3-0. Cafu got his name on the scoresheet in the 69th minute when he collected a Defederico pass before running at Mumbai’s defence and sending a left-footed shot whistling into the top corner to make it 4-0. It was 5-0 shortly after Goian produced a powerful header from a Defederico corner to add insult to injury for Kerala with 17 minutes still to go. Sunil Chhetri nearly
Match Awards: Club award: Mumbai City FC
Fittest Player of the Match: Lucian Goian Winning Pass of the Match: Matias Defederico
Swift Moment of the Match: Cafu ISL Emerging Player of the Match: Sehnaj Singh
Hero of the Match: Diego Forlan added a sixth when Defederico put him in behind the Blasters’ defence in the 80th minute but India’s all-time topscorer’s attempted dink was saved by Stack as Mumbai went top of the league with the biggest win of the season.
Kenyan sports ministry officials involved in massive scam IANS Nairobi, Nov 19: Top officials in the Kenyan Ministry of Sports, Culture and the Arts (Mosca) are facing charges and possible jail time for allegedly embezzling over $870,000 meant for the country's team to the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics. This is more than triple the amount said to have been misappropriated by senior National Olympics Committee-Kenya (Nock) official and Team Kenya Head of Mission, Stephen arap Soi who is facing five charges related to the theft of over $254,000 set aside for the team, reports Xinhua. The fresh allegations are contained in a yet to be released Rio 2016 Probe Committee report that was obtained by local media on Friday that is also calling for Nock to account to the over $1.2 million they have been receiving annually from American sports giants Nike on behalf of Kenyan teams to the Olympics. The probe team appointed by Sports Cabinet Secretary Hassan Wario when he disbanded Nock in the im-
mediate aftermath of Rio 2016 when the scandal shocked a nation with the minister receiving the report on October 28. Wario has since forwarded it to the country's president Uhuru Kenyatta who is in the process of making it public and announce what action will be taken against those who are found guilty of misusing funds meant for the team. "Action to be taken against those culpable in the misappropriation of $870,000 at Mosca and also Nock to account for the 1.26 million dollars per year they receive from Nike on behalf of the athletes," part of the report in our possession recommends. Officials in the ministry resorted to withholding payment of members of the probe committee in a bid to compel them to divulge the contents of the report fearing they are adversely mentioned. "When we presented the report to Wario on October 28, the minister ordered accounting officers to pay us but they have since declined because these officials suspect they are being ac-
HIGHLIGHTS
Ben Stokes (70) and Jonny Bairstow (53) put on 110 runs for the fifth wicket. Ashwin had a lean first spell after he was introduced in the second over of the day. But he returned in the second session and got the ball to grip and skid off the pitch in a fine spell of 7.5-0-14-3, which included the wicket of England top-scorer Stokes, who hit 11 boundaries. Ashwin now has a total of 52 wickets in 2016, two behind Sri Lanka's Rangana Herath. When India batted, England struck early with Stuart Broad (2/6) making full use of the DRS to remove both the openers -Murali Vijay (3) and KL Rahul (10) -- before James Anderson castled Cheteshwar Pujara (1) to reduce India to 40/3 inside 17 overs. Anderson replaced Broad and struck in his second over knocking over Pujara's middle-stump. But since then Kohli batted in a different zone, piling on the misery for England who fought a losing battle. A tantalising battle between Anderson and Kohli was on display but the Indian Test skipper was
PV Sindhu beats Korea's Sung JI Hyun to enter final HIGHLIGHTS
Top Kenyan officials face charges and possible jail time
Seventh seed Sindhu edged out Ji Hyun, seeded sixth, 11-21 2321 21-19 in a thrilling contest
They allegedly embezzled over $870,000 meant for the country's team to Rio 2016
Sindhu will lock horns with local favourite Sun Yu, seeded eighth, in the summit clash on Sunday
This is more than triple the amount said to have been misappropriated
cused in the report," probe committee chairman Paul Ochieng said. "They want to get hold of it to doctor it or line up some form of defence but they should instead seek its contents from the appointing authority who is Wario," Ochieng added. His committee spent 37 days working in Nairobi and Eldoret in a bid to get to the bottom of the scandal. Another report by the Parliamentary Select Committee for Labour and Social Services chaired by Matuga Member of Parliament, Matuga Member of Parliament, is yet to release its report to the same scandal having summoned Nock and ministry bureaucrats led by the CS.
fully in control in yet another effortless display. After a 167 in the first innings, Kohli batted with ease and reached his 13th Test fifty from 63 balls. With 33 minutes to tea, England's first innings folded for in 102.5 overs with a deficit of exactly 200 runs. England however had an impressive first session with Stokes and Bairstow oozing oodles of confidence and determination before Umesh Yadav finally gave the opening when he cleaned up the latter with a fuller delivery. Having tripped over his ankle while walking out to bat, Bairstow defied pain and played beautifully in his innings from 152 balls with five fours. Stokes was in the middle of one of his slowest innings, taking 108 balls to reach his eighth Test fifty. Stokes end came in the second session that also opened the day's account for Ashwin. His wicket virtually opened the gate for India as Ravindra Jadeja bowled Zafar Ansari (4) at the other end before Ashwin trapped Stuart Board (13) and James Anderson (0) leg before off successive deliveries.
PV Sindhu PTI Fuzhou, Nov 19: Olympic silver medallist PV Sindhu is just one step away from clinching her maiden Super Series Premier title as she reached the finals of the China Open after registering a come from behind win over Korea Sung Ji Hyun at the $700,000 tournament here on Saturday. Seventh seed Sindhu edged out Ji Hyun, seeded sixth, 11-21 23-21 21-19 in a thrilling contest that lasted an hour and 24 minutes here. This was Sindhu's sixth win over Ji Hyun in nine encounter. The two-time bronze medallist at World Championship, Sindhu will lock horns with local favourite Sun Yu, seeded eighth, in the summit clash on Sunday. Sindhu was up for a shock in the opening game as she just couldn't match up with
the Korean, who dominated the game all throughout after opening a 5-1 lead early on. Ji Hyun kept extending her lead and eventually pocketed the game comfortably. A jolted Sindhu then came up with a much improved performance in the second game as she locked herself in a battle of supremacy with Ji Hyun, moving neck and neck till 7-7. The Korean changed gears and entered the break with a 11-7 lead. After the breather, Sindhu erased the deficit with four points but Ji Hyun again managed to march ahead and grab three match points at 20-17. Sindhu saved two match points with some gritty strokes, including an angled drop shot before drawing level. She reached a game point but wasted it before she sealed a long rally with a
Sindhu had reached her maiden Super Series final at the Denmark Open last year powerful smash to roar back into the match. In the decider, Sindhu lagged behind again early on but fought back from 37 down to take a slender 109 lead but Ji Hyun won a thrilling rally to go into the break with a lead. Ji Hyun moved to a 12-10 lead next after Sindhu's backhand drop went out but the Indian kept breathing down her neck. A superb forehand from Sindhu and an error from Ji Hyun helped the Indian grab two match points at 20-18. Sindhu eventually sealed it with a superb cross court smash. Sindhu had reached her maiden Super Series final at the Denmark Open last year but the title eluded her as she lost in straight games to 2012 Olympic champion China's Li Xuerui.
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Forlan fires Mumbai to the top with hat-trick against Kerala
Agencies Visakhapatnam, Nov 19: Ravichandran Ashwin was back in his element with yet another five-wicket haul, setting up a perfect launchpad for skipper Virat Kohli to extend India's lead to 298 runs against England on the third day of the second cricket Test in Visakhapatnam. Courtesy Ashwin's five for 67, the first time he has picked so many against England in an innings, India bowled out England for 255 in their first essay to take a commanding lead of 200 runs. Deciding against enforcing follow-on, India reached 98 for 3 in their second innings at close of play with skipper Kohli once again leading from the front with an attacking 56 off 70 balls. His innings was laced with six boundaries and he was batting with Ajinkya Rahane (22*) at the end of Day 3. After an indifferent first session, it was Ashwin who turned the tables on the visitors with his 22nd five-wicket haul in Test cricket. The off-spinner faced some challenges but he returned to rip through the tail with wickets in successive deliveries after
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DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20
P12 Mallika Sherawat, who was reportedly tear gassed and beaten up by three masked men in her Paris apartment block, says she is a strong woman. The 40-year old actress and model spoke to a leading daily about this incident and also posted a strong message on her Instagram account which read, "It takes more than 3 masked men to take me down, I am a strong woman."
According to a report in a newspaper, Sherawat was 'attacked by criminals who wore scarves across their faces and without saying a word, sprayed their victims with tear gas before punching them.' This is not the first time that a celebrity has been attacked in the French capital. The dreadful attack comes just a month after reality TV star Kim Kardashian was robbed at gunpoint in Paris.
Commando 2: Sanjay Dutt's pelvic thrusts have been recreated with Vidyut Jammwal
India's hottest export to America, actress Priyanka Chopra is not only ruling the TV sets but painting the town purple, yes you read that right! The actress visited the famous Empire State Building in New York city, dressed in a bright purple dress and we couldn't keep our eyes off her. Promoting her hit TV series, Quantico, the actress became quite a talking
point while visiting the legendary skyscraper. The actress chose a high collared long sleeve mini dress for the event.
But they couldn't get the rights to this special appearance song filmed on a sizzling in gold Sonali Bendre, so the makers decided to go with a different gaana altogether and have now recreated Madhuri Dixit and Sanjay Dutt's iconic moves from Bappi Lahiri's "Tamma Tamma Loge" which was the USP of Raj Sippy's 1990 action packed
PeeCee chose black high knee boots to complete the look along with Garrett Leight reflective sunglasses. And yes, you can't miss her purple lip colour that went perfectly well with her purple dress. We think the colour really suits her, what say?
Coldplay frontman Chris Martinon Thursday night was in the company of Bollywoodsuperstar Shah Rukh Khan, Oscar winner AR Rahman, designer Manish Malhotra and others from the Indian film industry, ahead of the debut edition of the Global Citizen Festival India (GCFI).
Martin is here for GCFI. He is not just the curator of the gala, but his world-famous British boy band Coldplay will also make its maiden full-show performance here on Saturday. The gala, set to take place at the MMRDA grounds here, is focused on creating an impact in areas of education, equality, and clean water and sanitation.
Sridevi and Boney Kapoor's daughters Jhanvi and Khushi, and Anurag Kashyap's daughter Aaliyah, too, made the most of the moment and got photographed with Martin.
Vivek, who posed with his wife Priyanka and Martin, tweeted: "An amazing evening with the incredible Chris Martin of Coldplay. Great guy, using his voice for humanity." Sussanne, who thanked her
brother Zayed Khan and former husband Hrithik Roshan for her special moment with Martin, tweeted: "Epic Moments of a lifetime with my Chris Martin. Amazing heart, your love has made me shine?"
GCFI will also feature international artistes like band The Vamps -- who, too, have arrived here -- apart from Jay Z and Demi Lovato. Among Indian celebrities who will be present at the gala are Amitabh Bachchan, AR Rahman, Shah Rukh Khan, Freida Pinto, Alia Bhatt, Ranveer Singh, Katrina Kaif, Sonakshi Sinha, Parineeti Chopra, Monali Thakur and Arijit Singh.
When a tempo driver ran into Shah Rukh Khan's cycle Accidents don't always occur during action scenes. The team of 'Dear Zindagi' will vouch for that. The crew was hassled while shooting a scene with Alia Bhatt and Shah Rukh Khan in Goa.
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The actors were cycling in a narrow lane which made it difficult to work
with large-sized shooting equipment. A tempo was brought in to load the camera and the crew followed the actors while they cycled. When they stopped, the tempo driver, enamored by the actors, lost control and ran into SRK's cycle before braking hard. "As soon as the tempo halted, Gauri
Director Deven Bhojani and producer Vipul Shah had wanted to recreate AR Rahman's "Hamma Hamma" from Mani Ratnam's 1995 film Bombay as a promotional song for Commando 2. The actors had already rehearsed the track with choreographer Feroz Khan, whose repertoire boasts of dance numbers from films like Agneepath, Aisha and Force 2.
Chris Martin parties with Shah Rukh Khan and Rahman in Mumbai
From photographs across social media, Martin seems like he was happy to get clicked with the Indian celebrities. He was casually dressed in a white T-shirt with 'Love' written on it. Also present at the dinner, which was organised at a hotel here, were Shankar Mahadevan, Loy Mendonsa, Farhan Akhtar, Shraddha Kapoor, Vivek Oberoi and Sussanne Khan, apart from officials of Wizcraft International Entertainment and Viacom18.
Shraddha Kapoor finds rumours amusing
Mallika Sherawat post Paris attack: I'm a strong woman
directorial, Thanedaar for their Vidyut Jammwalstarrer Commando 2. The film is a sequel to the 2013-action film also featuring Vidyut, and is set to release on January 6, 2017. Last month, the song was shot at a suburban studio with Vidyut, Freddy Daruwala, Esha Gupta and Adah Sharma dressed in the same cos tumes and grooving against a discolight setting. Feroz even managed to get the actors do the famous pelvic thrust and head banging. "But the original track has meta morphosed into a more youthful, peppy new song and features a face-off between the leads, Vidyut and Adah, and the villain-vamp duo of Freddy and Esha.The shoot was completed in a week," reveals a source close to the development.
One of the busiest actresses in Bollywood today, Shraddha Kapoor is busy as a bee. With three releases lined-up for next year, the dainty beauty has wanted to go on a break for the longest time. While her pictures with her contemporary, Alia Bhatt, at events and parties show that they share a great camaraderie, rumours suggest otherwise. There were reports of a cold war between the two owing to Shraddha's equation with actor Sidharth Malhotra, Alia's rumoured boyfriend. In an interview to a daily, she said that she finds these rumours amusing and take place when people try to add some masala. Her linkup with her 'Rock On 2' co-star Farhan Akhtar, too, was doing the rounds. She feels that those writing about such things are attention-seeking.
Jhanvi to be launched by Karan Johar, confirms Boney Kapoor Sridevi and Boney Kapoor's elder daughter Jhanvi has caught the attention of many filmmakers who have been keen on launching her in B-town. Over the last few months, rumours were rife that Karan Johar has taken it upon himself to plan the perfect debut for the youngster. However, neither KJo nor Sridevi confirmed the stories. Now, filmmaker Boney Kapoor has confirmed that their darling daughter will indeed be launched by the 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil' director. Speaking to a daily, Boney said that KJo has been in talks with them and they have given consent to the filmmaker to helm Jhanvi's launch pad.
The 'Tevar' producer added that since Karan recently acquired the rights of popular Marathi film 'Sairat' for remake, it is being presumed that the star-
let will make her debut in the same project. However, he maintained that 'Sairat' remake may not necessarily be Jhanvi's debut vehicle.
Bipasha Basu can't stick to a diet plan Not many know that Bipasha Basu likes variation when it comes to her diet. Her abs and toned body may give fitness goals to everyone but surprisingly, she never sticks to a diet or an exercise regimen. We hear Bipasha is currently pursuing the Keto diet, which is low on carbs. It's believed to turn the body into a fat-burning machine.
Shinde and our DOP jumped on to the scene to ensure everything was under control. SRK escaped without a scratch. He even laughed the incident off and was up for a retake. But Gauri and the DoP didn't want to risk it again. Also, they had already got the perfect shot," says a source from the production team.
The actress is also high on exercises that help strengthen the core, which makes her look fit and fabulous. A source close to the actress says, "Bipasha eats healthy but switches her diet plan periodically. She doesn't want her body to get used to a single dietary model."
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Editor: Prahlad Hammey
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Priyanka Chopra visits Empire State Building and we wish we were there!