Zabarwan Times E-Paper English 07 May 2014

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WEDNESDAY 07 May | 2014 | 07 Rajab, 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |

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Srinagar, May 6: All Parties Hurriyat Conference Human Rights Division is going to publish, very soon, a detailed report in which Human Rights Violations incidents committed across the length and breadth of Kashmir have been documented.

The Head of the Human Rights Division Syed Salim Geelani in a statement has said that the Human Rights Division has brought many rights violation cases, in notice of State Human Rights Commission, National Human rights commission and Amnesty International.

Geelani has further said that they are also preparing a separate report regarding See APHC On PG 11..

Petrol bomb hurled on High School Baramulla, May 6: Unidentified persons hurled a petrol bomb at Government Girls High School at Watergam in Rafiabad area of Baramulla district where a polling station has reportedly been set up for Wednesday’s polls.

Police said that the bomb was hurled with an intention to scare polling staff but added that there was no designated polling booth in the said building.

Eyewitnesses told CNS that some windowpanes of the school building got damaged. “Government had already declared holiday for all the schools in Baramulla. There was no one See Petrol On PG 11..

Inside story CCA condemns harassment of Kashmiri students Terms it emergence of dangerous chain of events

Srinagar, May 6 : Terming it as an emergence of a dangerous pattern, coaching Centres Association (CCA) of Kashmir has strongly condemned the harassment and ill-treatment meted out to Kashmiri students in a university in Noida.

According to a statement issued to KNS, the association said that the incident is one of the many reported and unreported incidents, which direct towards a dangerous trend. “This should not be seen as an incident in isolation,” said G N Var, chairman

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On Edit Page Why raise issues hurting other’s sentiments The present Lok Sabha elections have seen different viewpoints, shades and opinions expressed by various political leaders, parties and individuals but the way the atmosphere has been polluted, vitiated and polarized, that is most unfortunate. It is quite but natural that political parties want to take an edge over others through their manifestos decorated with promises, assurances things which are possible and things which are possible and things which are not possible. However, this time

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WEATHER FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS: Light Rain would occur at a few places over the state.

FORECAST OF SRINAGAR: Partly cloudy sky. Maximum & Minimum temperatures will be around 26°C & 13°C

C TEMPERATURE M MAXIMUM Y MINIMUM K

SUNSET ON(WEDNESDAY) SUNRISE ON (THURSDAY)

26.40C 12.8 0C 07:19PM 05:37 AM

Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&K

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Continues to dominate his opponents

Detained stone pelter not a minor: Police

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APHC to publish human rights violation report

NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 126 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)

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North Kashmir, Ladakh go to polls today Ahead of polls militants strike in Sopore; 3 CRPF personnel injured Srinagar, May 06: The Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency is going for polls on today amid unprecedented security arrangements by authorities.

The constituency comprises of three districts – Baramulla, Bandipora and Kupwara – with 11, 90766 registered voters. The main constants are Shareef-udDin Shariq of National Conference (NC) and Muzaffar Hussain Baig of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

In order to ensure ‘peaceful’ polls, the authorities have deployed 250 companies of paramilitary forces comprising of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF) and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) in north Kashmir districts.

Besides, the battalions of Jammu and Kashmir Armed Police (JKAP) and Jammu and Kashmir Police will also be deployed.

The polling stations will be taken over by forces by this evening, officials said.

After witnessing protests in

South and Central Kashmir, the authorities have taken extra-steps to curb protests and militant violence.

Security and frisking on the roads was beefed up particularly in Baramulla and Bandipore districts days ahead of the poll.

The central Kashmir’s Anantnag constituency which went for polls on 24 April recorded 28% turnout amid violent clashes and a militant attack, while Srinagar Constituency recorded 26 percent polling amid violent protests and clashes.

The polling in both the constituencies ended on violence and killing of two persons. In Shopian district of south Kashmir, militants attacked the polling staff which was escorted by government forces resulting in death of a presiding officer, Zia-ul-Haq. While in Srinagar, a youth was shot dead by ‘security forces’ following clashes in downtown area of Nawa Kadal after polls concluded.

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200 persons including former militants rounded up They will be released once polls are over: Police

Srinagar, May 6 (KNS): In view of the polls, scheduled to be held in Baramulla on May 7, police has detained more than 200 people including the former militants.

According to the reports received

by KNS, several people at various places of North Kashmir were called to their respective police

Main fight between Beig and Shariq

18 candidates in fray

Srinagar, May 6: With 18 candidates in fray in North Kashmir’s Baramulla parliamentary constituency and a registered electorate of 11, 5200, a close contest between the big political players is expected on May 7. The details available with KNS informed that the greater number of candidates fighting the polls

Former minister appears before court, asked to file response and even without informing him about the same.

On April 3, the CJM Srinagar had issued notices to Deputy Inspector General (DIGs) of Jammu and Rajouri-Poonch to cause appearance of Khan, after police filed charge sheet against him for his alleged involvement in outraging modesty of the female doctor.

The two separate notices were issued by V. S Bhou the CJM Srinagar after perusing and accepting the charge sheet which has been filed against Khan under section 509 (showing any gesture, word, or action in order to outrage modesty of a woman) and 354 (using criminal force to outrage the modesty of woman) of RPC. A day after the High Court granted relief to him, on February 13, 2014 Khan had appeared before police station Shaheed Ganj here. The High Court had asked the police to release Khan on a personal surety bond once he presents himself before the police. Khan furnished a personal bond of Rs 25,000, after the high court yesterday said if police arrest him, he should be bailed out after furnishing a personal bond.On February 8, the, the CJM Srinagar had issued a non See Former On PG 11..

.......... Nawakadal killing ..........

Hurriyat (M) approaches NHRC, seeks investigations Srinagar, May 6 (KNS): Pleading that Nawakadal firing incident reflects failure on part of security forces to adhere to the Standard Operational Procedure (SOP) by resorting to direct firing at vital parts of mob, the Hurriyat Conference (M) has approached National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) seeking orders for investigations into the killing of a youth Bashir Ahmad Bhat on April 30 evening.

According to Hurriyat (M) letter addressed to Dr. Ashok Sahu, IES, Secretary General National Human Rights Commission, New Delhi, the Hurriyat (M) leader Syed Salim Geelani head of the Human Rights Division of Hurriyat (M) has said that CRPF personnel opened fire on a group of youth in Nawakadal area of old Srinagar on April 30 and killed Bashir Ahmad Bhat (22) son of Mohammad Shafi, a pashmina weaver and injured Haleema Bano wife of Reyaz Ahmad Shakhsaz and Nazir Ahmad Kaloo, all residents

of Gratabal-Nawakdal, Srinagar.

“The victim was hit by three bullets in his abdomen and was shifted to SKIMS Hospital Srinagar but was declared as brought dead. Locals alleged that CRPF opened fire on youth without any provocation.

‘Divisional Commissioner Kashmir’ as well as ‘Jammu and Kashmir State Human Rights Commission’ (SHRC) has censured CRPF for killing a youth,” the Hurriyat (M) letter in possession of KNS reads.

It adds that the incident has evoked a widespread resentment across Kashmir and authorities imposed curfew for three days. “The unfortunate part of the incident is that Security Forces once again have miserably failed to adhere to the Standard Operational Procedure (SOP) and have resorted to firing directly at the vital parts of the mob. No Rule of Law is followed by the security personnel.

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in North Kashmir shall have a direct impact on the margin of the votes that will go to the winning candidate.

With PDP claiming to emerge with a thumping victory from the North Kashmir Lok Sabha seat, Peoples’ Conference claims to surprise many during this election season.

NC’s Sharief- ud-Din Shariq has already See Fray On PG 11..

were registered in the year 2008, 09 and 10 have also been detained at various police stations.

Police sources while confirming the reports stated that more than 200 people have been taken into preventive custody to ensure smooth conduct of polls on May 7. A senior police officer wishing not to be named told KNS that the top priority for the police is to ensure smooth conduct of elections and that the preventive See Police On PG 11..

NC, Congress poll alliance fails in Ladakh

Kargil, May 6: Poll-alliance between National Conference and Congress party for Ladakh division has completely failed as neither leaders of Congress nor the leaders of National Conference from Kargil region have supported the official alliance candidate Tsering Samphel.

National Conference leaders from Kargil alleged that even Congress See NC On PG 11..

Govt’s approval not required to probe senior bureaucrats on corruption charges: SC

Sexual assault case

Srinagar, May 6 : Senior Congress leader and former health minister Shabir Ahmad Khan accused of outraging modesty of a female doctor on Tuesday appeared before the court of Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Srinagar wherein he was asked to file response to an application filed by the complainant seeking stay on the proceedings till the Supreme Court decides an appeal filed by her against bail order issued to Khan.

According to Advocate Rafiq Ahmad Joo, the counsel for complainant doctor, the CJM chief asked Khan to file his response to the application by ore before May 16.

In her application the complainant doctor has said that her Special Leave Petition (SLP) against the Jammu and Kashmir High Court bail order is pending before the Supreme Court and till that appeal is decided there should be no proceedings in the main matter pending the CJM. Meanwhile, according to KNS correspondent, the former health minister was present in the court with his counsel Advocate Muhammad Abdullah Pandith and Advocate Naqashbandh who also filed an application before the court alleging that the charge sheet in the matter has been produced in the absence of Khan

stations and were kept under preventive detention in view of the polls scheduled to be held in 15 segments of North Kashmir.

Reports maintained that police has also detained the former militants who had joined the militant ranks earlier and then surrendered. Also some activists from various separatist groups have been taken into custody reportedly for affixing poll boycott posters in various areas. The stone throwers against whom the cases

New Delhi, May 06: The Supreme Court on Tuesday held as invalid and unconstitutional the legal provision which makes sanction of competent authority mandatory for CBI to probe a corruption case against an officer of joint secretary-rank or above, saying it has the propensity of shielding the corrupt.

A five-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice

ECI failed to check violations of MCC by Modi Srinagar, May 5: Prof. Saifuddin Soz President Pradesh Congress Committee has said: “It is really unfortunate that the Election Commission of India (ECI), despite its achievements in respect of electoral reforms of various kinds, has failed to check violations of Model Code of Conduct committed by Modi and his cohorts in various parts of India particularly in Uttar Pradesh.”

According to a statement issued to KNS, Soz added: “To cite just one example, it

could be pointed out to ECI that it was clearly wrong on its part to allow Amit Shah to resume campaign in Uttar Pradesh on behalf of Modi, after his poisonous and dangerous hate speech in UP openly directed against Muslims.

Allowing him to indulge in the same nefarious game of extreme communal polarization on the basis of just an affidavit was absolutely wrong.”

“A series of violations of Model Code Of See ECI On PG 11..

R M Lodha delivered the judgment after examining Section 6A of the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act (DSPEA), which protects top bureaucrats from being investigated in corruption cases without prior approval.

“We hold Section 6A of the Act, which requires Central Government’s approval for the offences under See SC On PG 11..

Shutdown in parts of Bandipora Srinagar, May 06: A complete shutdown was observed, amid protest in the morning, observed in parts of north Kashmir’s Bandipora district against pre-poll detentions by police.

The Jammu and Kashmir police have detained hundreds of people particularly youth in north Kashmir districts to ensure ‘peaceful’ polls on Wednesday for Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency.

All the shops and other business establishments were closed in Hajan, Ajas and Shahgund areas of the district while people held peaceful protests in the Hajan Town against detentions, eyewitnesses told GNS. The town has been on the edge since the killing of a teenager in nearby Naidkhai in the month of March, this year. Police, so far, have detained dozens of See Bandipora On PG 11..

Bar condemns arrest spree, intimidation of Kashmiri students and Assam killings Srinagar, May 6: While reiterating its call of boycott of elections, the Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar Association Tuesday strongly condemns the ‘unwarranted and unjustified’ thrashing of 3 Kashmiri students by a group of local drunkards at International Greater Noida University, when they refused to shout anti-Pakistan slogans.

In a statement issued to CNS, the Bar Association stated that it feels that by expelling

67 students from Meerut University for cheering Pakistan cricket team’s victory over Indian team, beating of Kashmiris in Jaipur on the eve of another cricket match and now by thrashing 3 Kashmiri students in Greater Noida, a message is sought to be conveyed to the Kashmiri students, studying in any part of India, to endorse impliedly the illegitimate, illegal, unwarranted and unjustified Indian position on See Bar On PG 11..

PSA slapped on Shopian youth Over a dozen cases against him: Police Shopian, May 6 : District administration

has slapped Public Safety Act (PSA) on a youth in Shopian and lodged him to district jail Udhampur. According to KNS correspondent, the youth was arrested just ahead of the Lok Sabha polling on South Kashmir seat. Sources said that Zubair Ahmad Turray son of Bashir Ahmad Turray, a resident of Bonebazar, are of the South town, Shopian was arrested in the middle of April.

Police sources said that there are

many cases filed against Turray. They added that Turray is a stone pelter and “creates trouble” in the town whenever he gets any chance. However, locals and the family sources that Turray has become prey to the police only because of his political ideology.

Sources said that it is for the second that Turray is slapped with PSA. Earlier on April 2013 he was sent to jail under PSA and he got freed only after the intervention of Judiciary. District Magistrate Shopian in its order No. 01/ DM/PSA/2014 and dated April 29, 2014 slapped PSA on Turray and lodged him to district

jail Udhampur.

According to a police handout issued to KNS, “A notorious stone pelter Zubair Turray has been booked under PSA by the district administration Shopian. There are more than a dozen cases of stone pelting wherein he was involved including the one on the Kashmir University professor’s vehicle in which the driver of the vehicle was seriously injured. He was also involved in making announcements in the mosques for instigating people to indulge in stone pelting and other violence.” (KNS)

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Srinagar, Wednesday 07 May 2014

FROM THE FRONT PAGE

Today The authorities have beefed up security in volatile towns of north Kashmir like Old Town in Baramulla, Palhallan, Hajin and Sopore. Hundreds have been detained amid apprehensions of violence on poll day.

These areas are prone to anti-India protests.

“The north Kashmir is sensitive both in terms of stone-throwing and militancy. We will have to be extra-cautious,” a senior officer, who is monitoring north Kashmir, told GNS. The attacks on polling staff and polling booths by stone-throwers in south and central Kashmir are another cause of worry for security agencies. A polling booth was attacked in north Kashmir by unknown persons today by hurling petrol bomb. “We don’t want repeat of south and central Kashmir,” the officer said.

Several North Kashmir areas have been hotbed of militants and according to security agencies, militants will definitely try to disrupt polls.

“Though there is no specific input but we have a general input about militant attacks,” a senior CRPF officer said. “But we are vigilant. We won’t let them succeed in their plans,” he added.

Three paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were injured in a militant attack their at Sopore area in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district late Tuesday evening. Barely 10-hours before the start of election in Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency.

CRPF’s Srinagar based spokesperson; Kishore Prassad told GNS that some unknown militants attack CRPF party of 179 bn near state Bank of India in Sopore.

“During the attack three of our men have sustained injuries and they have been immediately evacuated to nearby hospital for treatment”, he said.

Block Medical Officer (BMO) Sopore, Dr Syed Massod told GNS that two injured CRPF men were brought to the hospital and both of them have been referred to Bone and Joint hospital Srinagar. He said that the duo had leg injuries.

Sources identified both the injured CRPF men as Manoj Kumar and K Sujan.

However, unconfirmed reports said that a civilian also got injured in the firing incident.

Meanwhile, army’s 22 RR, CRPF and SOG cordoned off the whole area and started searches to nab the attackers.

However, the sources told GNS that the militants after carrying out the attack fled from the spot. (GNS)

Police measures have been taken so that the law and order is not disrupted. He added that the detained persons will be released once the elections in Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency are over.

Police maintained further that an attack carried out at a local school of Watergam was aimed to create panic in the area and to instill fear in the minds of people.

Police claimed that the attack was carried out using a petrol bomb and that the reports of the IED blast are incorrect. Police informed that the additional forces have also been deployed in North Kashmir to ensure safety for the voters and that the forces have already been deployed in various far flung areas of North Kashmir including Gurez, Keran, Uri and Tulail.

Pertinently, with 18 candidates in fray in North Kashmir’s Baramulla seat and a registered electorate of 11, 5200, a close fight between the big wigs is expected on Kupwara- Baramulla turf on May 7. Various areas of this Lok Sabha seat are being considered as volatile in terms of militancy related activities. The Director General of Police (DGP) Ashok Prasad Monday stated that the police implemented the security plan of 2008 for the polls in North Kashmir .The state police chief told KNS that whatever the measures taken by the police in the year 2008- the same is being done in the current year during polls to avoid any disruption of law and order. “In terms of the police deployment at various places, to thwart protest demonstrations and stone pelting and any other activity that would disrupt law and order in the state- the security plan of the year 2008 is being implemented this year also.”

Commenting over the security scenario of the Baramulla during polls on May 7, Ashok Prasad stated that there are three major challenges being faced by the police at present. “First is that the militants could carry out soft target killings in the area. Second is the strike call during polls issued by the separatists. It could instigate people for stone pelting. Third is the direct attempt of stone pelting at various places to disrupt poling and to create panic in various areas that will go for polls on May 7.” (KNS)

Police

enter into the tussle today. Ghulam Mohammad Mir of BJP, Syed Mohammad Rafiq Shah of National Panthers Party, Mohammad Shafi Bhat of Bahujan Samaj Party, Salam ud din Bajad and Khursheed Ahmad Khan of Peoples Conference are the other prominent candidates who have filed their nomination papers from the constituency. Prominent among those who filed their papers for Ladakh parliamentary constituency included joint candidate of ruling National Conference and Congress Tsering Samphel, and BJP's Thusptan Chewang and Tsering Dorjey as covering candidate. Several independents are also in the fray including Syed Mohammad Kazim who enjoys the backing of the religious schools of Kargil. (KNS)

NC leaders of Kargil region campaigned against their own candidate, signifying the deep wedge between the party leadership.

“Chief Executive Counselor of Congress party Asghar Karbalai openly campaigned against their own party candidate. We had no other alternative but to field an independent candidate Syed Mohammad Kazim Sabri to make the bid of Congress unsuccessful,” advisor to Chief Minister and NC senior leader Qamar Ali Akhoon told CNS. He said that no senior leader of National Conference or Congress, the two coalition partners, campaigned for Alliance candidate Tsering Samphel in Ladakh seat. “The internal feud between Congress leaders compelled NC leadership of Kargil to seek support from people for independent candidate,” Akhoon said that Congress rebel Ghulam Raza filed nomination papers after violating all the norms of the party. (CNS)

Former

SC the Prevention of Corruption Act (PCA) to make inquiry against officer of the rank of joint secretary and above, as invalid and volatile of Article 14 of the Constitution,” the bench, also comprising justices A K Patnaik, S J Mukhopadhaya, Dipak Misra and F M I Kalifulla, said on Tuesday.

It said there cannot be any classification of officers for the purpose of inquiry of offence under the PCA. “The corrupt public servants, higher or lower in rank, are the birds of same feather and have to be dealt with equally,” the court observed.

Maintaining that corruption is an enemy of nation, the bench said that it is difficult to make classification of officers in graft cases as it is against the man-

present in the school.

We are investigating the case and those behind the action would be nabbed soon,” a police official said.

Head Master of the School Ehsan-ul-Haq told CNS that on the directions of the Deputy Commissioner Baramulla, they cleaned all the rooms of the school and had taken care of everything to make the job of polling staff easier. “I received the message about the blash in the morning but fortunately, it has not caused any major damage,” he said.

(CNS)

Detained stone pelter not a minor: Police

Srinagar, May 6: As reported by a section of press wherein the family of a PSA detainee Waseem Bashir Sofi son of Bashir Ahmed Sofi resident of Dangerpora, Pulwama claimed that Waseem is a minor. A daily had also published photograph of school leaving certificate where in the date of birth has been mentioned as 02/09/1998.

CCA condemns harassment of Kashmiri students

Terms it emergence of dangerous chain of events

Srinagar, May 6 : Terming it as an emergence of a dangerous pattern, coaching Centres Association (CCA) of Kashmir has strongly condemned the harassment and ill-treatment meted out to Kashmiri students in a university in Noida.

According to a statement issued to KNS, the association said that the incident is one of the many reported and unreported incidents, which direct towards a dangerous trend. “This should not be seen as an incident in isolation,” said G N Var, chairman CCA.

Bandipora people in the town who were allegedly involved in stone-throwing and protests.

Locals said that police have also detained parents of few youth who have gone into hiding to save themselves from detention.

A police official said these detentions are ‘preventive’ as authorities don’t want any trouble on the poll day.

(GNS

Killing Kindly order investigations so that precious lives are saved in Kashmir,” Geelani has said in his letter to NHRC. (KNS)

ECI

bail able arrest warrant against Khan, former minister of state for health after being accused of molesting a lady doctor. Police station Shaheed Gunj had registered FIR against Khan bearing number 9 of 2014 under sections 354/509 RPC in the matter. (KNS)

Petrol

date of the PCA. It said that the prior approval under Section 6A would result, indirectly, in halting the investigation and if the CBI is not allowed to carry on the preliminary inquiry how the investigation can proceed.

“We are of the view that there can be no distinction between certain class of officials for inquiry of the offences under the PCA. “How can the status of officials be of any relevance in the offence under PCA and any distinction by way of Section 6A of the DSPEA makes it violative of Article 14,” the bench said, adding that the protection as provided in Section 6A has the propensity of shielding the corrupt.

The court said there cannot be any exemption from equal treatment and any official facing allegations of corruption has to be treated with the same process of inquiry.

Conduct by Shri. Modi, Shri. Amit Shah and others, including display of Ram Lalla at Faizabad on the occasion of Modi’s visit there and his potentially dangerous speech with communal overtones, occurred only because the Hate Mongers got conscious of the fact that ECI had not shown the will to check blatant malpractices.”

The PCC chief has said: “Some conscientious citizens of India have started fearing that fascism has already arrived at the threshold of democratic and secular India! The ECI also had not shown its nerve to go into the vital questions of quantification of Mr. Modi’s enormous funding for the unprecedented media hype for Mr. Modi and the enormous level of black money that got into the Modi’s campaign by way of Paid News. Perhaps the time has come when the Peoples Representation Act will need provision for the Supreme Court’s direct intervention, when the ECI goes wrong as visibly as during the course of the present General Election 2014.” (KNS)

Bar Kashmir or else give up their studies half way, which is highly unethical, immoral, unacceptable as well as highly condemnable.

The Bar Association also condemned the killing of more than two dozen Muslims in Assam and said that the killing of these innocent persons has taken place due to the communal, utterances of BJP leaders, of which notice should be taken by the Islamic World and peace loving people of the World.

The Bar Association also condemned the arrest and detention of hundreds of youth, including physically challenged persons and elderly parents of those youth, who have escaped the arrest and detention at the hands of police so far and sought intervention of all right minded people of India and all over the world and put pressure on Indian Government and its stooges in Kashmir to stop these atrocious methods of suppression and oppression and free all those people who have been arrested and detained and are languishing in police stations, interrogation centres and Jails. (CNS)

APHC the rights violations committed with the children and women of Kashmir. He said the recent killing of Kashmiri youth, Bashir Ahmad Bhat of Nawakadal Srinagar has been taken up with the State Human Rights Commission, National Human Rights Commission of India and Amnesty International. Geelani said a letter has been send to both the organizations explaining them how the youth was shot dead by the unprovoked firing of Indian Forces (CRPF). The letter has also appealed these organizations to deliver justice to the victim’s family.

Expressing satisfaction over the activities of Hurriyat’s Human Rights Division, APHC Media Advisor Adv Shahid ul Islam has expressed hope that the HR Division will continue to work in documenting the Human Rights violations in Kashmir. (CNS)

MILITARY ENGINEERING SERVICE NOTICE INVITING TENDER "Garrison Engineer Kargil,C/O 56 APO on behalf of the President of India, from eligible, enlisted contractors of MES and enlisted/un-enlisted contractors working with other Govt. Departments invites applications meeting eiibility criteria for selection of Contractors for issue of tender of under-mentioned work (s):S. No Name of Work (a)

Special Repairs to building No. T-31 and T-50 of Bihar Regt at Old Drass

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Cost of tender in favour of Rs 500.00 in the shape of DD / Banker's cheque from any Nationalized Bank / Scheduled Bank in favour of Garrison Engineer Kargil, Payable at Kargil for each contract.

2. Last date of receipt of Applications 15 April 2014 3. Eligibility Criteria :(a) For MCS Enlisted Contractors: Class ‘E’, Category for “a(i) (b) For Other Contractors: (I) Meeting enlistment criteria of MES with regard to having satisfactorily completed requisite value of works, Annual turn over, Working Capital, Fixed Assets etc., (ii) No recovery outstanding in Govt. Deptts.

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maintained that he has won the fight.

During the election of 2009-Shariq emerged as the winner for NC- Congress coalition with 203022 votes while as the PDP candidate Mohammad Dilawar Mir lagged behind with 138208. As per the data available, the Baramulla seat was won over by Syed Ahmad Aga of Indian National Congress (INC) in 1967. In 1971, the seat was again bagged by the same candidate of the Congress. In 1977, the National Conference took control of the seat with its candidate Abdul Ahad getting 147222 votes. In 1980-the seat was again won by NC’s Khwaja Mubarak Shah with 178533 votes. Muzaffar Hussain Beigh at that time being an independent candidate managed 75256 votes. In 1984- Saif-ud-din Soz of the National Conference emerged as the winner from North Kashmir’s turf with 234357 votes in his kitty.

Congress again took control of the seat in 1996. That time Ghulam Rasool Kar of INC got 110331 votes.

In 1998- Prof Soz from National Conference won in Baramulla with 131164 votes. In 1999, Abdul Rashid Shaheen of National Conference again won this Lok Sabha seat with 84243 votes. Muzaffar Hussain Beigh as an Independent candidate again turned out to be a runner up from the constituency, managing 48130. In 2004- Abdul Rashid Shaheen of National Conference won the seat with 127653. Nizam-ud-Din Bhat of PDP became runner up with 117758. In 2009, the coalition candidate of Congress and NC Sharief-ud-din Shariq won the seat managing 203022 votes.

Interestingly, 27 candidates have entered the fray from Baramulla and Ladakh parliamentary constituencies of Jammu and Kashmir. While 18 candidates had submitted their papers for the Baramulla Lok Sabha seat, nine contestants have entered into the fray from Ladakh parliamentary constituency.

National Conference leader and sitting MP Sharif-uddin Shariq, former Deputy Chief Minister and PDP candidate Muzaffar Hussain Baig and independent MLA and president of Awami Itehad Party Sheikh Abdul Rashid are the prominent faces who would

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Daily ZABARWAN TIMES

SRINAGAR |WEDNESDAY, MAY | 08 | 2014

DDC Doda convened public darbar

Reviewed ongoing developmental works in Thathri and Gandoh DODA, MAY 06- To redress grievances of people at their door steps especially those living in far flung and hilly areas, District Development Commissioner Doda Mr. Mubarak Singh today convened Public Darbar at Gandoh and also reviewed progress of ongoing developmental works in the area.

Additional Deputy Commissioner Doda Mr. Imam Din, SDM Gandoh Mr. K.L Sharma besides other District and Sub-Divisional Officers and Sarpanches/ Panches also attended the Darbar.

While speaking on the occasion DDC enjoined upon the officers to work with devotion and dedication for the socio-economic development, benefit and welfare of the people living in the area. RegardLoneongoing News Agency Kangan ing progress of different developmental worksGulzar in the News area, Agency Soura DDC directed the concerned ex-Agency Hawal Tariq News ecuting agencies to redouble their Muzaffar Ali News Agency Alamgari Bazar efforts for their time bound comAbdullah News Agency Lal Chowk pletion.

Gupkari News Various demands and Agency Lal Chowk

grievances were raised by the people during the darbar, which include deficiency of staff in various schools, augmentation of Power and Drinking water distribution system, Land Compensation issues, inadequate ration supply besides various other demands were highlighted during the darbar.

DDC gave patient hearing to their demands and assured the participants that all genuine grievances will be redressed in shortest possible time.

Earlier, DDC inspected Food Store in Thathri and enquired about the availability of stock and supplies in the area. He also met with the various deputations at Thathri and Gandoh and passed onspot directions to the concerned officers for immediate redressal of their grievances and also directed the concerned executing agencies and officers to speed up the pace of work of the ongoing developmental works for their time bound completion.

Zabarwan Times is available at

Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Magam LEH, MAY 6: Leh district is all set for its poll day, with the News Agency Beerwaha fair, free district administrationDar fully prepared to conduct Reshi NewsofAgency Safapora and transparent election.

A total 1769 Election Duty Certificates (EDCs) were issued

by Returning officerBandipora Simrandeep Basharat News Agency Singh to the polling parties and security personals deployed Altaf News Agency Pulwama at various polling stations in the district.

Jeelani News Agency Baramulla As many as 252 polling personnel have been deployed Newsand Agency Kupwara to 6 hyper sensitive, 8Shah sensitive 49 normal polling stations in 47- Nubra Assembly andLangate in 48- Leh AsYounisconstituency News Agency sembly Constituency as many as 844 pollingIslamabad staff have been Reshi News Agency deployed to 16 hyper sensitive, 53 Sensitive and 142 normal Turray News Agency Tral polling stations.

Rahi News Agency Kulgam Rah News Agency Byepass

Leh all set for polls

Open heart surgery performed at SSH Jammu

JAMMU, MAY 07: The Department of Cardio Vascular Thoracic Surgery of Super Specialty Hospital (SSH), Jammu today performed an open heart surgery.The surgery was performed

by Dr. Noor Ali, Head of the CVTS Department along with a team of doctors comprising Dr. Ishaq Mir, Dr. Arvind Kohli, Dr. Vivek Gandotra and Cardiac Anesthesia team headed by Dr. Pooja Vimesh.The patient was having hole in the heart which was present since birth. In addition she was having multiple stones in the kidney and was also diagnosed some brain problem for which she had to take medicine for two months before she could be taken for surgery.Similarly another patient was operated for large defect between the two chamber of the heart where oxygenated and un- oxygenated blood was being mixed, thus causing the problem.

Khan News Agency Ganderbal Zahid Book Depot Chadoora Bashir News Agency Nowhatta Budshah News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk Raina News Agency Gund Kangan Rashid News Agency Dalgate Hilal News Agency Budgam Bhat News Agency Chadoora Zargar News Agency Kunzar Bashir News Agency Sumbal Saleem News Agency Pattan Reyaz News Agency Pampore Javaid News Agency Qazigund G.M News Agency Sopore Sultan News Agency Handwara Sheikh News Agency Islamabad GANDERBAL, MAYAgency Tral Three Way News 06: In connection with BadruMela NewsKheer Agency Bijbehara ensuing Malikand News Bhawani ShriAgency Am- Arwani arnath Yatra via Baltal, Shaheen News Agency Kargil

DDC Ganderbal reviews arrangements for Mela Kheer Bhawani, Shri Amarnath Yatra

Deputy Commissioner, Ganderbal, Mr. Sarmad Hafiz on Tuesday reviewed arrangements being made for the smooth conduct of the both.

The Deputy Commissioner stressed upon the concerned officers to be proactive and make every effort for smooth conduct of the Mela Kheer Bhawani which shall be celebrated on 17 June

2014 and Shri Amarnathji Yatra com-

mencing from June 28, 2014.

The meeting was attended by Director Tourism, Kashmir and all the concerned District Officers including officers of R&B, PHE, PDD, Police, Municipal Committee, Health, Fire and Emergency Services.

The matters related to establishment of Medical camps, arrangements for Sanitation and availability of essentials, Traffic Management Plan, transport facilities, supply of drinking water and electricity, medicare facilities and macdamization of roads were discussed in detail.

Campaigning over, North Kashmir all set to vote Lone supervises dispatch of poll material, staff at Baramulla BARAMULLA, MAY 06: With campaigning over yesterday evening, the stage is set for polling for Baramulla parliamentary constituency on May 07.

Elaborate arrangements have been made for smooth, free and fair polls in the constituency.

Today polling material and staff was dispatched to their destinations from distribution centers and the process concluded early afternoon today. Adequate transportation and communication plans were made for the purpose.In Baramulla this

morning, District Election Officer, Dr. Farooq Ahmad Lone, who is also Returning Officer for the constituency visited all the distribution centers in the District and supervised the dispatch of polling material and staff to their destinations.

An azure sky and a warm climate added to the enthusiasm of voters and the whole process. The convoys of polling staff passing through green orchard patches were giving an enchanting look.

Polling parties to some remote areas like Karnah, Machil and Kumkadi in Kupwara district and Gurez, Tulail in Bandipora districts stand already dispatched.

Even as 61 Polling Stations, comprising 37 in Sopore,

18 in Baramulla and six in Pattan Assembly segments were relocated/clustered to facilitate voters of different locations cast their votes at centrally located places without hassle, the Booth Level Officers of all the districts in the constituency have been directed to set up Election Facilitation Desks (EFDs) outside polling stations on the polling day to ensure that photo voter slips are distributed among the leftover electors, if any on spot.

Already in a majority of locations in Baramulla district photo voter slips, which have attracted attention, were delivered to voters at their doorsteps.

In the district 14 zonal and 109 sectoral magistrates have been designated to ensure peaceful and smooth polling in

Tulip Garden Closed SRINAGAR, TUESDAY 06: With Tulip Bloom-2014 over, the Indra Gandhi Tulip Garden, Siraj Bagh, Cheshmashai will remain closed for the general public from 7th May 2014.

The communication in this regard has been issued by Director Floriculture.

Aggarwal distributes cricket, sports kits among educational institutions

SRINAGAR, MAY 6: Director General, Youth Services and Sports (YSS) Mr. Navin Aggarwal today distributed Cricket and other Sports Kits to various Educational Institutions of Srinagar, Budgam, Ganderbal, Pulwama, Shopian, Anantnag and Kulgam districts in a one day conference held here.

The conference was organised by the Joint Directorate, Youth Services and Sports, Kashmir Division. Joint Director, YSS Kashmir Mr. Madan Lal, Principal, Physical College Ganderbal, Mr Hardev Singh, Accounts Officer, Directorate of YSS, Mr A R Shigan, Heads of various educational institutions, besides Lecturers, Masters and Teachers in Physical education of Srinagar, Budgam, Ganderbal, Pulwama, Shopian, Anantnag and Kulgam districts attended the conference.

Speaking on the occasion, Director General, YSS stressed upon the officers of education and Youth Services and Sports Departments to work in unison and maintain close coordination for the promotion of sports activities among students. He said that physical teaching staff need to put in extra effort in this regard, besides introducing the students towards new games like fencing speed ball, roller skating etc in the valley.

The Director General said that efforts are afoot to improve the sports infrastructure in all educational institutions of the State. He said Government has already declared physical education compulsory from 6th standard to 10th level and the formulation of a befitting syllabus in this regard is already underway.Earlier, the Joint Director YSS Kashmir Division presented welcome address and highlighted the activities of the department.

the district.

Meanwhile, during the campaign trail political parties and candidates held series of meetings and road shows and tried to convince voters to vote for them.

The use of local cultural items like music, attire and humour added pun to the campaign.

15 candidates are in fray including candidates of National Conference, Peoples Democratic Party, BJP, Peoples Conference, Awami Ittehad Party, Panthers Party and Bahujan Samaj Party besides some independents.

11, 90, 766 voters including 6, 22,632 male and 5,66,460 female voters would be exercising their franchise across the Constituency today.

This includes 5, 83,753 voters of Baramulla, 2, 11,967 voters of

Bandipora and 3, 93,400 voters of Kupwara districts. There are 18,257 migrant voters included in these figures spread over the three districts of Baramulla 8307, Kupwara 8468 and Bandipora 1482.To facilitate these voters exercise their franchise, 1616 polling booths have been set up across the constituency at 1303 locations. This includes 822 polling booths in Baramulla district, 531 polling booths in Kupwara district and 263 in Bandipora district.The Election Commission of India has deputed two General Observers Mr. Murli Krishna and Mr. Pravesh Kumar, one Security Observer Mr. Maddyreddy Pratap and one Expenditure Observer Mr. Mahipal Singh to monitor free and fair polling in the constituency.

HOROSCOPE Aries

March 21-April 19

Allow your eager and restless nature to express itself in ways other than through the spoken word, Aries. Show someone that you care through your gentle touch or a big bear hug. Hold on a little bit more tightly than you might normally. There’s an unspoken understanding that comes when you communicate through nothing but pure silence. Work on developing this kind of connection with those closest to you.

Taurus April 20-May 20

This is a terrific day for you, Taurus. You should find that your relationships, especially with men, go exceptionally well. Your tender and extremely sensitive nature is finally being recognized as the treasure chest it is. There are many times in which this type of personality is seen as weak, yet today is one of those times in which you’re given the full credit you deserve.

Gemini May 21-June 21

A selfish attitude on your part won’t be tolerated today, regardless of the circumstances, Gemini. Don’t make it worse for yourself by pretending that you don’t notice others’ hurt feelings.

People are likely to be extra sensitive today, so be careful about trying to impose your will on someone who really wants nothing more than an ear to talk to and a shoulder to cry on.

Cancer June 22-July 22

You could find the hardest person to face is you, Cancer. You tend toward introspection, and you may find yourself shrinking into self-recrimination. You could analyze the important people in your life and yet fail to address the one you really need to look at – you. As you continually strive for perfection, give yourself proper credit. Do something nice for yourself today.

Leo

July 23-August 22 Take advantage of the creative energy in the air today, Leo. Keep your hands moving and your imagination flowing toward something fun and artistic. If you begin to doubt your work, you may fall down a spiral of creative blockage. Don’t get into the habit of constantly judging the quality or outcome of your work. Give yourself free rein to open up and explore whatever comes to mind.

Virgo

August 23-September 22

Your sixth sense is right on target, Virgo, so trust your instincts today. You’re likely to connect with someone in a wonderful partnership that will help you foster the very plan you want to develop now. Stay close to those things that resonate strongly with your morals. The answer is in front of you; you don’t have to search too far afield in order to find it.

Libra

September 23-October 23 Take a break from your routine, Libra. You might feel like you’re leading an army into battle as you strive for new adventures and conquer new realms. Make sure you take a bit of time out today to stop and let your troops rest. You deserve a little rest yourself. Use this moment of stillness to form your plan of attack so you’re sure about how to proceed.

Scorpio

October 24-November 21 The key for you is to minimize your daily drama as much as possible, Scorpio. You may not realize how much you cripple yourself by the way you exaggerate every aspect of your life. Try not to give so much of your attention to things that really don’t matter much. Petty jealousy and gossip about other people’s lives are especially irrelevant in your world.

Sagittarius November 22-December 21

Be careful of advertising yourself as someone who is so strong and mentally competent that you’re capable of handling everything, Sagittarius. Take note that the strongest mule on the trail usually ends up carrying the most weight. Your emotions are more sensitive than you may think, and certainly more than you demonstrate to others. Be honest about the way you feel and not just the way you think.

Capricorn December 22-January 19

CE, Project Beacon calls on Governor

SRINAGAR, MAY 6: Brigadier R.K. Sharma, Chief Engineer, Project Beacon, called on Mr. N.N. Vohra, Governor, here at Raj Bhavan, today.

The Governor was briefed about the todate position in regard to the Z-Morh and Zojila Tunnel projects and about the clearances which are still awaited.

The Governor urged Brig. Sharma to deploy increased work force for the urgent repair of all major roads, particularly those which will be under intensive use with the commencement of the Shri Amarnathji Yatra.

VC, KU calls on Governor

SRINAGAR, MAY 6: Prof. Talat Ahmad, Vice Chancellor, Kashmir University, called on Governor Mr. N.N. Vohra, Chancellor of the University, here at Raj Bhavan, today.

The Governor discussed with Prof. Ahmad important issues relating to the functioning of the University and its Leh, Kargil and Baramulla off- site campuses and certain concerns about maintenance of academic discipline.

Prof Talat also apprised the Governor about the picture emerging after the conclusion of the recent admission to the University.

VC, Sardar Patel University calls on Governor

SRINAGAR, MAY 6: Mr. M.L. Kumawat, Vice Chancellor, Sardar Patel University of Police, Security and Criminal Justice, Jodhpur, called on Mr. N.N Vohra, Governor, here at Raj Bhavan, today and briefed him about the teaching and research being done at this University.Emphasizing the very high importance which needs to be given to secure the maintenance of internal security the Governor urged the Vice Chancellor for high priority being devoted to identified training and orientation courses being run for in-service officers of the Police and Judicial services.

Things should flow well for you today with very little effort on your part, Capricorn. Take note that if any quarrel arises, it’s an indication that the person you’re arguing with isn’t necessarily the right person to deal with or confide in. Emotional issues are likely to be the hardest ones to overcome, but this shouldn’t be a problem for you. You have the ability to work through these like a pro.

Aquarius January 20-February 18

This is meant to be a nice, relaxing day, so treat it as such, Aquarius. There’s no need for you to plan any great strategy at this time. Try to take it easy and not indulge in any unnecessary stress.

This is your time to enjoy the moment. Don’t tax your mind by overanalyzing everything that comes your way. Go with the flow and have a great time regardless of what you end up doing.

Pisces

February 19-March 20 Your sensual nature is heightened, Pisces, and you’ll find yourself engaged in tender moments and languid peacefulness in the company of others. Soothe your soul by letting yourself slip into situations that give you the emotional freedom to do or say whatever comes to mind.

Life should be like a love poem written by a great master.

Accept the good energy that comes your way.

OPINION EDITORIAL// OPINION OPINION EDITORIAL High number of Why raise issues No cake walk for heart cancer hurting other’s anyand party in patients coming polls sentiments An alarming signal for society

T T

situation rehe he present Lok asSabha The number of heart and cancer gards have pre-poll elections seenallidifpatientsferent in the Kashmir valley is inance between conviewpoints, shades creasing at an alarming rate day byby gress and national and opinions expressed day.

So far, these fatal diseases to conference is used now various political leaders, parbe treated fallout of two urbanization, very clear and the parties ties andasindividuals but the food habits and sedentary lifestyle. have decided to go together if way the atmosphere has been But unfortunately, this is spreading they want to registerand win polluted, polarin rural areas vitiated too.

During their the last few in some parliamentary conized, that is most unfortunate. years, the number of patients sufferstituencies inlife thetaking state.

The It isfrom quite but natural that poing these diseases chief minister Omer Abdullitical Sher-e-Kashmir parties want Institute to take of an visiting lah had very categorically said edge over others throughmany their Medical Science has increased that there is no alternative but manifestos decorated with fold. A major population of the valley to go for alliance withofthe conpromises, assurances things has to spend a large chunk their ingress He said that his which are possible and things come onparty. medication for grave diseasparty will never go any poll which are possible and things es for years together.

Thefor more miserpact with lead NDA. He able condition is those of middle class which are BJP not possible.

Howevfamilies who have to meet the exsaid thattime it is necessary to join er, this the brighter side penditures by their agriculture land,by hands with congress because of manifestos was eclipsed property selling jewelry by taking both parties are or already in foul the language, filthy criticism loan.

As per reports the main cause coalition at Centre and characterboth assassination and attributed for the spread of these fain the blowing state. Now is evident even off itthose issues tal diseases is stresscost alongwill with have otherto that in Jammu they which could dearly factors .the cases ofThe breast cancer too to formidable BJP which theface country. communal are on higher side as compared to theisis strengthened because of the forces were seen all over, other parts of the in the recandidature of country Narinder Modi suing hard hitting statements cent past. The stress protein rich food as PM in Kashmir the causPDP against communities salty tea and etc.different could be prominent has packets of support besides ragging issues like es forstrong this increase butup lack of awareand may cause big upsets Article 370 of Constitution ness amongst the women especiallyof if congress and national conIndia.

Nobody less than the in the villages is taking its toll.

Early ference do not Ministerial go together.

BJP Prime candetection means early cure. ButStill due PDP hasNarender the hesitant chance of women going didate Modi talked to many social the neck neck loud about scrapping of take this do notto speak outwith very the easilycongress and NC alliance.

Meanwhile the anarticle which provides special it lightly which aggravates the situanouncement of Congress partion.

As per reports,oftheJammu breast status to expert the state cancer in India is going to double in ty that it will start its election and Kashmir. Though this next four years.

Now typehealth of cancampaign with thethis union article has been reduced to a cer has overtaken cervical cancer. minister G N.Ruskin’s Azad alongwith skeleton like old The man cost of curing this deadly disease may the president Din andPCCI the fish story Saif stillud this arvary from 10-15 thousand to 3-4 lacs Soz of March.

It indi-of ticlefrom has13th become a symbol per month depending on the stage cates thataoncommon one side congress ego for Kashmiri and gravity of the disease.

Almost allof is trying to bridge thevirtue differwho thinks that by the regions of the world are affected ences between its leaders this article the bonds ofand uniby these diseases. on the other side it is not taking ty and thecome spirit of the accession The time has when society the electoral battle in J&K very with Indian Union remains inas well as the health caring agencies lightly.

The state has this time tact.

The barring some has to rise toarticle the occasion for fighting about 70 lakh voters which will provisions has been against these grave diseases bymassaawakuse franchise to elect six credtheir by masses various state Govts. ening the to change their life members from the state.

The through amendments since style and avoid self medication .The valley itself hasshould 36 lakh 1950 onwards.

The question awareness camps be voters organand these voters in the entire arises to why Naised in theas remotest areashould where medstate will decide the fate of the rendra or nil.

BJP raise ical facilitiesModi are almost The more candidates five phases.

Elabstunning partin ofwhen the serious situation this issue they know is thereitsecurity are thousands medical orate arrangements that amounts toof hurting shops which sell are as medicines the separatists the needed sentiments of without Kashthe prescription of the doctors, rath-is have already issuedthis poll all boymiris.

Perhaps er suggest medicines the gullible cott callsdone and there may be some being to and win the mapatients consume medicines till it kind of unpleasant here jority votes as things the slogan turns otherwise and patients have to or which can create fear of there abrogation of Article 370 be rushed to the hospitals where it is in the minds of the voters.

Howsatisfies the communal tentoo late.

As itIndia, is the consumption ofof ever, keeping in view pandencies. by the virtue medicines in the valley is much highchayat elections theisvoters mayin itsasconstitution, secular er compared to other parts of the again turn in good numbers to character and provides equal country in a way making it safe haven elect representatives. respect opportunities for thetheir suband standard medicines. Theof This timeagencies the every elections existence to health care shouldreligion, put are ban quite different than the previethnic groups or individuals. on the pharmaceutical companies ous elections as the voters are It does not discriminate the manufacturing such kind of on medmore aware about their rights basis A of strict caste,drug creed, colour icines. policy shouldor and politically the situation is religion.

Hence, it is imperabe initiated and licenses for medical somehow confused throughtive for every party shops should be individual given after proper out the and country. remains to or social group to respect the scrutiny underIt the guidelines prescribed by rules and regulations be seen who will the constitution andwin help inbattle mainset by ministry of health.

Defaulters royal butits it secular is clear that this taining character should be served with severe penalty time most the candidates which inofturn will keepwill this so that people are able to live a healthy have tough time to convince the country united and integratlife thetheir case favour. in other developed voters ed.as isin and under developing countries.

Daily Daily Daily

Zabarwan Times Zabarwan Zabarwan Times Times

Srinagar, Saturday February 2014 Srinagar, Wednesday 07 May 2014 Srinagar, Tuesday 1115 March 2014

Nursing Sick Units Back to Health

O

nce blue chip Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) like BSNL, Air India, Hindustan Cables Ltd and Fertiliser Corporation of India today stand testimony as to how not changing with the changing times and technology could change their fate and turn them into sick units.

However, there has been always a silver lining in this regard as the government has been relentlessly making efforts to revive maximum number of sick public sector units (PSUs) to take the country’s growth engine forward. This was possible with the help of revival packages provided by the government to these units.

With this aim, the Government set up the Board for Reconstruction of Public Sector Enterprises (BRPSE) in December 2004 to advise the government, inter-alia, on the measures to restructure/ revive, both industrial and non-industrial CPSEs. Since then cases of around 67 sick CPSEs have been referred to BRPSE up to October 2012, out of which the Board has made recommendations in respect of 62 cases, while returning five cases to the concerned ministries for further examination.

No wonder, there has been significant improvement in the overall condition of these enterprises since 2004. In comparison to 90 sick CPSEs in March 2005, there were 66 sick PSUs in March 2012. As per the BRPSE recommendations, of these cases, 45 were accepted for revival by the Government.

Most of the remaining cases are awaiting nod for

revival while in case of 45 cases accepted for revival, 14 have already turned around including Bharat Pumps and Compressors, Cement Corporation of India, HEC, Andrew Yule and MECON and making profits while others have been infused with revival packages.

The companies for which revival packages have been approved include Hindustan Shipyard, HMT and Scooters India.

As the CPSEs operate under dynamic market conditions, it is quite natural to see ups and downs in their performance.

As far as the reasons for losses and sickness in CPSEs are concerned it varies from enterprise-to-enterprise. While in some cases, the cause is historical.

In case of textile companies which were taken over from private sector on socio-economic considerations could not be modernised quickly.

Likewise other enterprises in the engineering and refractories sector too failed to modernise. Still others like some consumer goods companies and the new ones, turned sick over the years on account of inadequate job orders, high man-power cost, lack of finance, technological obsolescence, high input costs and competition from cheap imports.

In addition, other problems common to most sick and loss-making PSUs have been poor debt-equity structure, weak marketing strategies and slow decision-making process.

As one such policy initiative, the Sick In-

dustrial Companies (Special Provision) Act, 1985 (SICA) brought the CPSEs under its purview in 1991 (made effective from 1992). Under the provisions of the SICA, CPSEs with at least five years of registration whose accumulated losses are equal to or have exceeded their net worth may be referred to the BIFR. During the last twenty years -- between 1992 and 2011, 63 CPSEs have been referred to BIFR. The government has made several attempts to overcome “sickness” in these CPSEs through various policy initiatives.

The strategies for revival/restructuring of sick CPSEs include financial restructuring involving investment by the government in the form of equity participation, loans, waiver of debt etc and business restructuring which includes change of management, hiving off viable units from CPSEs for formation of separate company and closure of unviable units, besides formation of joint ventures.

The other strategies include manpower rationalisation by shedding excess manpower and introduction of voluntary retirement schemes.

The contribution of each and every company is significant as CPSEs are considered as the backbone of the economy and are equal partners in the nation building.

As on March 31, 2012, there were 260 CPSEs in the country. These companies contributed Rs 1.6 lakh crore to the central exchequer by way of taxes, duties, interest on loans and dividend, amounting to 21.4 per cent of government’s revenue receipts.

Creating Employment Opportunities for Youth

I

ndia is a vast country with a population of about 1.21 billion and a labour force of around 475 million. There is an open unemployment of 9.5 million as per estimates available for the year 2009-10. Employment is the main source of livelihood and self-fulfillment for most women and men.

About 6% of the total work force in India is employed in organised sector while remaining 94% are in the unorganised sector. Scope of additional employment generation in the organized sector for additional wage employment is less.

India has a younger population not only in comparison to advanced economies but also in relation to large developing countries. As a result, the labour force in India is expected to increase by 32 per cent over the next 20 years, while it will decline by 4.0 per cent in industrialised countries and by nearly 5.0 per cent in China. We are, therefore, endeavoring to reap this ‘demographic dividend’ by providing for higher levels of health, education and skill development. This will create an environment where in the economy not only grows rapidly, but also enhances good quality employment and livelihood opportunities to meet the needs and aspirations of the youth.

The Government has been making constant efforts for reducing unemployment through normal growth process and implementing various employment generation programmes, such as, Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY); Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) and National Rural Livelihood Mission besides entrepreneurial development programmes run by the Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises.

The Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, 2005 (MGNREGA) also assures every rural household at least 100 days of manual work at minimum wages.

Jawaharlal Nehru National Ur-

ban Renewal Mission (JNNURM): The Mission’s aim is to encourage reforms and fast track planned development of identified cities. Focus is on efficiency in urban infrastructure and service delivery mechanisms, community participation etc.

Bharat Nirman In Bharat Nirman, critical areas of rural infrastructure – Irrigation, Roads, Water Supply, Housing, Electricity and Telecom connectivity have been covered. This has improved living standards of the rural population and also created infrastructure which will ultimately enhance the economic activities in the rural areas and generate significant employment opportunities for the rural people.

Infrastructural Development The investment on infrastructure is proposed to be increased to Rs.45 lakh crore during XII Plan period.

About half of this is expected to come from private sector.

Skill Development · Skills and knowledge are the driving forces of economic growth and social development of any country. Countries with higher and better levels of skills adjust more effectively to the challenges and opportunities of the world. · Government is serious in creating training infrastructure and providing quality employment to youth.

According to a study carried out by Quality Council of India, placement rate has increased to about 80% to 99% because of improved infrastructure in the modernized ITIs. Skill Development Initiative (SDI) Scheme based on Modular Employable Skills (MES) was started during the Eleventh Five Year Plan for early school leavers and existing workers, especially in the unorganised sector to improve their employability. About 16 lakh persons have been trained under the scheme so far. · Sincere efforts are being made

for skill development of a large number of people under various skill development programmes. The Prime Minister has set a target of skilling 500 million persons by 2022 and the Ministry of Labour & Employment is required to train 100 million. Government is systematically working to achieve the target and the training capacity has been increased from 9 lakh in 2006 - 07 to 26 lakh in 201112. All the Government ITIs are being modernized. New courses have been introduced and most of the ITIs are running in two to three shifts. During last five years, the number of Government and private ITIs has increased from 5114 in 2006-07 to 10,344 which is more than double. Government has also planned to set up 1500 more ITIs in PPP and 5000 Skill Development Centres in PPP to enhance the capacity further. 27 Advanced Training Institutes are also planned in PPP to produce adequate number of trainers in the country.

Focus Area in the 12th Five Year Plan In the 12th Five Year Plan the thrust of the Government is in bringing about an inclusive growth strategy that will provide job opportunities as well as make the young of the country employable.

The main focus areas are: a) Thrust on Manufacturing Sector-to make it the engine of employment growth-that would create 100 million additional jobs by 2025. b) To bring in supportive policies to incentivise labour intensive manufacturing sectors such as textile & garments, leather & footwear, food processing, gems & Jewellery to generate more employment opportunities. c) Expanding employment in services like IT, finance & banking, tourism, trade & transport. d) Prioritizing skill training for the informal sector; creation of appropriate skill sets among rural migrants and urban poor to make growth inclusive.

e) Ensuring the employability of skilled persons by involving Sector Skill Councils in preparation of Skill Modules matching market demand. f) Building on the potential of Modular Employable Skill programme by ensuring combination of modules to ensure employability. g) Extending Social Security benefits to Unorganized sector Workers. h) Enable skill loans for poor students (Credit Guarantee Fund) i) Streamlining the skill development programs for disadvantaged sections to ensure much larger funding for skill development. j) Setting up of National Skill Registry to link data bases across Ministries / States to provide a platform linking people who seek/provide employment.

Expenditure on social services which include education, sports, art and culture, medical and public health, family welfare, water supply and sanitation, housing, urban development; welfare of Scheduled Castes (SCs), Scheduled Tribes (STs) and other Backward Classes (OBCs), labour and labour welfare, social security and welfare, nutrition, relief for natural calamities, etc. by the Government (Centre and State combined) has also shown increase in recent years reflecting higher priority to social services.

National-e-Governance National-e-Governance Plan has identified Upgradation and modernization Employment Exchanges as one of the Mission Mode Projects (MMP).

The MMP aims to progressively support all Employment Exchanges in the country to make effective use of IT in various activities of employment services. A national web portal will be developed to make all employment related services available on a single window and will work like a virtual job market. This will help Employment Exchanges to provide efficient and quality services at wider scale and speed.

Disclaimer : The The contents contents and and comments commentsappearing appearingin inany anyarticle articlepublished publishedininthis thispaper paperare arepurely purelythe thepersonal personal opinion the writer opinion ofof the writer Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer