Zabarwan Times E-Paper English 14 July

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July 14 | 2013 | 04 Ramzan 1434 AH | PAGES 12 |

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Omar pays floral tributes

Boy drowns in Anantnag Srinagar July 13, 2013: A School boy identified as Showkat Ahmad Bhat son of Gul Mohammad resident of Shiekhpora, Chittergul was drowned while having a bathing in Orpat Nallah, Manzimwadi, in the jurisdiction of Police station Achabal. The body of Showket was fished out and handed over to his relatives for last rites.

Decomposed body of girl recovered Bhaderwah, July 13: The decomposed body of a minor girl, who was allegedly abducted by a youth on July 3, was recovered in Bhaderwah belt of Doda district in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday, police said.

On the basis of information given by locals, police recovered the semi-naked body of the 10-year-old girl Kajal Devi in bushes near Nalthi Park of the district, they said.

The victim was kidnapped by Tirath Singh of Kauch village on July 3. However, after the family members lodged a complaint against him, police arrested Tirath.

Police claimed that the girl might have been raped by the accused, adding that a case has been registered against him.

KPs hold 'Black Day' Jammu, July 13: The occasion of Martyrs' Day in Jammu and Kashmir today saw protests by Kashmiri Pandit groups who observed the day as a black day saying that it commemorated the persecution inflicted by one group of people on another.

The Joint Forum of KP Organisations held a massive demonstration outside the Press Club here. Activists at the demonstration said that the Kashmiri Pandit community had been observing July 13 as 'Black Day' since 1932.

Boy drowns, 21 injured in mishaps Srinagar, July 13: A boy drowned in Anantnag district of south Kashmir while 21 persons were injured in separate mishaps across the Kashmir valley, a police spokesman said here on Saturday.

He said a school boy, Showkat Ahmad Bhat son of Gul Mohammad of Shiekhpora, Chittergul drowned while having a bath in Orpat Nallah, Manzimwadi in Achabal area of the Anantnag district. The body of the boy was fished out and handed over to his relatives for last rites, he said.

Separately, he said, eleven persons were injured when a mini bus—Tata 407 (JK09-16170 they were travelling in, met with an accident at Chookibalan, Kralpora in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district this afternoon.

All the injured, he said, were shifted to Hospital for treatment According to KNS, in another accident, a mini bus (JK03-8817) hit and injured a child, Munsif son of Parshu of Uranhal in Bijbehara area of Anantnag while a Santro car (JK03A-6931) collided with a Motorcycle (DL95AE-3507) on KP Road at Mattan area of the southern Kashmir district, resulting in injuries to the motorcyclist Zakir Hussain Malik of Khayar and Pillion Nisar Ahmad Wagay of Nambal.

In another accident, a Tata sumo (JK03A-7943) met with an accident at Poshinari in Uttrasoo, Anantnag, resulting in injuries to three persons who were travelling in it.

In yet another accident, a Scorpio vehicle (JK05D-1532) hit a Scooty (JK05C-8239) at Kralhar, Baramulla, near FCI, resulting in injuries to Scooty rider Abdul Rashid Lone son of Mohammad Sultan of Uskhkara. Meanwhile, a Maruti car (JK05C-7550) hit a motorcycle bearing (JK04A-6093) at Chanapora in Tangmarg, resulting in injuries three persons who were riding the motorcycle.

All the injured were shifted to Hospital for treatment.

‘31 martyrs remembered amid shutdown

Srinagar, July 13:

A shutdown called by the separatists and selective restrictions by the authorities marked Martyrs' Day in Srinagar Saturday, as floral tributes were paid to those who laid down their lives in 1931 protesting autocracy.

Authorities imposed restrictions in five police station areas of Khanyar, Nowhatta, S.R. Gunj, Rainawari and Safa Kadal in the old city to maintain law and order.

Though officially these restrictions were termed "preventive measures", the restrictions halted life in areas where they were imposed.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, accompanied by Finance Minister Abdur Rahim Rather, Rural Development Minister Ali Muhammad Sagar, Lok Sabha member Sharief-ud-Din Shariq and senior police and civil officers paid floral tributes at the martyrs' graveyard at Khwaja Bazaar in the old city,

where a contingent of state police presented a guard of honour to the chief minister.

The Chief Minister said that the sacrifice of martyrs to free the

society from autocracy and lay edifice for democracy and human dignity is one of the richest chapters of the history of Jammu and See Martyrs on Pg. 11

Sharing the perception of Muslims that they are being “victimized”, Minority Affairs Ministry will soon moot a proposal for setting up of a special task force to oversee the terror cases against the members of the community.

“Muslims believe their youth are being arrested but not tried for years…

There is a perception Muslims are being victimised,” Minority Affairs Minister K Rahman Khan reporters.

Contending that people should not be arrested

without evidence, he said, “There is a deep hurt in the community over what they believe is injustice and we cannot escape it.”

Khan said he had would submit a proposal to the Government soon for setting up of a task force.

“I will be writing to the Government to set up a task force. It should have powers to monitor these cases,” he said.

Most suspects are released after five, seven or 10 years but their life is ruined, the Minister said.

He said delay in trial of terror cases is tanta-

mount to “denying basic rights to citizens” as long spell behind bars destroys their lives.

“It is also true that terrorism exists. Eliminating the menace is everyone’s responsibility, including that of Muslims,” he said.

He said he would ask the Government to involve moderate community leaders to deal with challenges facing Muslims.

The UK has taken a similar approach to deal with terrorism by taking community leaders onboard and he would ask the India Government to adopt a similar approach, See STF on Pg. 11

BJP takes on UPA over national security Jammu, July 13: BJP on Saturday alleged that the UPA government has failed completely to deal with the issue of national security, and the recent terror attacks in the country, including in Jammu and Kashmir, are a fallout of its soft approach towards militancy.

Referring to bomb blasts in Mahabhodi Temple at Bodh Gaya and the recent militant attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, BJP national general secretary Murlidhar Rao accused both Congress and National Conference, its ally in J&K, of encouraging fundamental, narrowminded and separatist forces.

"Every terror attack is being politicized, and the security apparatus of the country is getting down. Institutions like NIA, CBI and IB are fighting against each

Leopard mauls another boy to death Srinagar, July 13:

other," he said.

Accusing Congress of betraying people of Telangana, Rao said BJP supports separate statehood for the region, and will vote in favour if a bill is brought in Parliament in this regard.

"Telangana issue is a historic one. Congress has betrayed the people of the region. I believe they (Congress) do not want to do it (go ahead with separate statehood for Telangana)," said Murlidhar Rao, party's national general secretary.

He said BJP will vote in favour of the bill envisaging separate Telangana, whensoever it is brought in the Parliament.

"BJP has decided that if they (Cong) introduce a bill even now in the coming Monsoon session, BJP will support the bill," Rao said.

"Due to this (Telangana) issue, the development of the See BJP on Pg. 11

A nine-year-old boy was killed on Saturday after a leopard attacked him in north Kashmir, the second such incident in the area in past 24 hours.

Earlier on Friday two leopards entered village Harshunar, Kreeri, in north Kashmir district of Baramulla from a nearby forest and killed a six-year-old boy.

The attacks by wild animals have sharply increased recently, underlining the Valley’s grave man-animal conflict issue.

The fresh incident took place in Kreeri area of Baramulla district north of Srinagar, witnesses said.

Adil Ahmad was with his friends when a killer leopard attacked and bit him in the neck, fatally wounding him. His body also bore marks of the cat’s claws.

A large number of villagers gathered for his funeral prayers.

See Leopard on Pg. 11

Challenges grow for army as infiltration bids increase

STF on Muslim terror cases mooted New Delhi, July 13:

nC, Congress encouraging separatists

Srinagar, July 13: "We have learnt our lessons from this incident," a threestar general said on the sidelines of a recent passing out parade here. He was commenting on the deadly guerrilla ambush late last month in which eight soldiers were killed and 13 injured in this Jammu and Kashmir summer capital.

As infiltration attempts from across the Line of Control (LOC) into the state record an increase, the challenges for the army to keep the trained and heavilyarmed guerrillas from entering the state have also grown.

On July 9, the army foiled a major infiltration bid into the Valley in north Kashmir's Kupwara district. A group of eight to nine guerrillas tried to sneak in from across the LOC in the Keran sector when they were fired upon by army troops.

In the resultant gunfight, the army said five guerrillas had been killed while others in the group had fled towards the LOC, taking cover in the thick foliage in the area.

"Surveillance of a border like the LOC is no mean job.

There are mountains, rivers, streams, ridges, ravines and gorges along the LOC. It is not a cut and dried

area that we have to guard.

Despite the three-tier LOC fencing, we need highly sophisticated surveillance equipment to keep the enemy at bay," a senior army officer said here.

To mount vigil and meet the growing challenges of LOC infiltration by highly motivated guerrillas, the army's Northern Command has floated a request for proposal (RfP) for purchasing six border surveillance management systems (BSMS) for deployment in Jammu and Kashmir.

The BSMS would provide inputs to the surveillance centre that is normally situated behind the observation

posts on the LOC. The border in Jammu and Kashmir is at present managed through a surveillance system that includes threetier fencing, thermal imaging, manual patrolling and floodlighting the area.

The BSMS, army sources say, would enhance its counter-infiltration surveillance capabilities.

Sources in the state intelligence say that out of a group of five to ten guerrillas who attempt to infiltrate and are challenged by the security forces, despite suffering casualties, a small number of survivors generally manages to sneak in.

See Challenges on Pg. 11

HM posters spread fear in Anantnag

Kashmir not an international BJP struggling to remain relevant: Rana dispute: Mufti

Anantnag, July 13:

Srinagar, July 13:

Posters issued in the name of militant outfit Hizbul Mujahideen, have spread terror in South Kashmir even as the police registered the First Information Report (FIR) here.

The laser-printed posters, warning people against liaising with the police and mainstream politicians, appeared mysteriously at the Jamia Masjid Hanfia, See Posters on Pg. 11

Opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) patron and former Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed Saturday said that Kashmir wasn’t an international dispute and can be resolved through dialogue.

Talking to KNS at the martyrs’ graveyard in the shrine premises of Khwaja Naqshband sahib (RA) here, he said,

Jammu, July 13:

“Kashmir isn’t an international dispute. When we were in power (20022008) we ensured that Kashmir problem is solved through talks and it was due to our efforts that then Prime Minister (Atal Behari) Vajpayee offered hand of friendship to Pakistan from Kashmir.”

“We also involved Hur-

riyat in dialogue process. We opened roads (Srinagar-Muzaffarbad) in our tenure and released political leaders.

Mobile service was introduced in our time in J&K,” he said.

“We took then Prime Minister in a public rally where he offered hand of friendship to Pakistan. But recently when Prime Minister

Manmohan and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi came here, Kashmir was placed under curfew and they were taken to Banihal.”

“We entered into coalition with Congress in 2002 for the betterment of Kashmiris. It changed the situation in Kashmir and Vajpayee offered hand of friendship to Pakistan which was reciprocated by General See Mufti on Pg. 11

Taking dig at BJP’s orchestrated campaign over revocation of Article 370, Provincial President National Conference Devender Singh Rana Saturday said that repeated assertions over this sensitive issue speaks volumes about the political bankruptcy of the party.

Speaking at a function held in observance of Martyrs Day at Sher-e-Kashmir Bhavan here this morning, Rana said that after feeling

isolated and distracted from the masses in the wake of inner-party skirmishes, BJP is struggling to remain relevant in the political spectrum by inciting communal passions.

“Narendra Modi’s latest salvo over Hindu nationalism and justification of 2002 communal riots is an indicator what discourse the party is taking in the ensuing elections,” Rana said and added that this is just the extension of its See Rana on Pg. 11

Of 2014 Assembly Elections- where do political parties stand?

Shahana Srinagar, July 13: Another political volcano called PDP, has come into scene for the last over a decade as an alternative to National Conference. The party mercurial in its nature has played card after card to become parallel political force in J&K, but has not so far been successful to provide a viable alternative to National Conference. Starting from healing touch to disband the infamous task force, from Khushal Kashmir to dual currency, from buffer state to revocation of AFSPA, from withdrawal of army to self rule, it has used all political prescriptions to woe the people of J&K but alas!

It could not sustain the attention of the majority of people.

The party led by a veteran politician like Mufti Mohammad Sayed could neither woo the

people of J&K nor the central government because of its inconsistent approach to political issues. At one stage, Mufti Mohd Syed as Home Minister of India sang the song of Kashmir being the integral part of India in full pitch but as soon as he formed his own party after leaving Janta Dal, he became vocal in asking for a political solution of J&K which now he thought was not internal issue and pleaded for negotiations with Pakistan and separatists. When PDP was a coalition partner in J&K, it never raised the boggy of selfrule and never talked about Kashmir being a disputed territory. However, as soon as it was out of power, it started talking the language closer to separatists. There is no doubt that during the tenure of Mufti Mohd Syed several confidence building measures were initi-

ated by Govt. of India which included opening up of some crossing points, making people to people contact a dream come true. Mufti played a vital role in persuading the central leadership for initiating these confidence building measures with Pakistan. However, he cannot take the whole credit for this because if centre would not have its own compulsions, the dream of starting a bus service or trade activities would never have been realized. It was because of changing political and economic scenario on international level which facilitated initiation of better friendly relations between India and Pakistan. Coming back to its contribution on economic and developmental front, there is hardly any major achievement which could be show-

cased. Mufti Mohd Syed went on a stone laying spree for hundreds of projects, but most of them remained confined to the stone laying ceremonies and never took off to get anywhere near completion. He however, undertook a beautification of the banks of river Jehlum and got some work completed besides removing encroachments at various points on national highway.

Here one can say, Mufti Mohd Syed was also rendered sometimes helpless because of coalition compulsions. But when one measures him on the laid standards, except some examples of excellence here and there, he is on the lowest ebb. Mufti Mohd Syed however gave a concept of a clean politics as there was no allegation of any kind of victimization of his opponents

Part-III

during his rule. He was also unchallengeably instrumental in bringing back the normalcy to the state to a great extent besides taking away unlimited powers from Special Task Force and making it answerable, but his promise disbanding the force did not materialize. An atmosphere of security was created because of such bold initiatives in the valley, earlier called the valley of Ghosts because of the psycho fear created by this dreaded force. As regards unemployment, his case is not different from NC or Congress, as the number of unemployed youths increased manifold and Mufti Mohammad Syed’s promise of one job to one family could never became a reality. Instead backdoor entries in custodian department, Islamic University, PHE, Flood Control, Tourism Development

Corporation besides some other departments left a dark spot on his clean image. Infact PDP which was visibly up against corruption itself became an instrument to accommodate corrupt and retired bureaucrats, media officers and those small time politicians who have the allegations of unfair dealings.

Political pundits believe that a coterie of some persons are responsible for taking decisions which instead of strengthening the party, have weakened it in many ways. For example, the decision to withdraw the support to Ghulam Nabi Azad govt. has cost heavily on PDP. Despite having a potential of becoming a viable alternative to National Conference, PDP may not have much to present before the people in 2014 Assembly Elections to seek a clear mandate to return to power.

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11 Sunday, 14 July 2013 From Front Page........

Martyrs..........

Kashmir.

“The best way to pay homage to the martyrs is to help create equitable and palatable environment for everyone to grow and develop in a democratic atmosphere”, he added.

On July 13, 1931, a large crowd gathered outside the central jail where Abdul Qadeer, a Pathan butler who had raised his voice against the autocratic rule of the Dogra Maharaja, was being tried in-camera.

As the crowd stormed the jail, guards opened indiscriminate fire, killing 28 people. Those killed in the central jail firing are known as the martyrs of 1931.

Separatist leaders called for a general shutdown Saturday because of which markets, public transport and other businesses remained closed in the city.

Government offices, educational institutions, banks and post offices are, however, closed as the Martyr's Day is also observed as a public holiday.

Spontaneous stone-pelting incidents occurred Friday evening at Nowhatta area of the old city, where young people engaged security forces in clashes till late in the night.

The protests were held against the house arrest of Mirwaiz Umer Farooq who could not deliver the Friday sermon at Jamia mosque in old city.

The day was especially important as the first Friday of the Holy Muslim month of Ramadan, which started here Thursday.

BJP...........

state has come to a standstill. Investments are not made, administration is completely paralysed, cabinet is not able to meet and the Assembly is not able to function," he said.

On economic front, Rao said all sectors, be it manufacturing, industry or agriculture, is facing crisis due to faulty policies, and country's economic situation has become worst than that in 1991-92. Rao said Article 370 was proving to be an "idealogical barrier" between people of Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of the country, and causing hurdles in governance.

Leopard.........

Wild bears and leopards besides other animals are now frequently wandering into Kashmir villages killing people and livestock.

Over half a dozen people, mostly children, have been killed so far this year by wild animals, and scores of others have been injured, wildlife officials say.

Authorities have set up control rooms and are distributing leaflets urging people living near forests to take precautions to prevent more casualties.

Police say at least six bears and leopards have been killed by villagers and authorities in the last ten months after attacking local people.

The wildlife department on Friday issued shoot at sight orders against two leopards after massive protests broke out in a north Kashmir village following a killing of a minor by the big cats.

The leopards attacked Yasir Khan, a six-year-old boy and dragged him with them. The villagers on hearing, Yasir’s screams chased the leopards, who went deep into forest.

Yasir’s body was recovered evoking massive protests by villagers, who were raising slogans against the wildlife department.

Challenges...........

"This seems to be the general experience here during the last over 20 years. The few survivors manage to get into the hinterland despite the majority of their group getting killed or being forced to withdraw," said a senior intelligence officer here who did not want to be named.

Guarding against any major revival of guerrilla activities has been the first priority of the security forces.

What was last year described as "residual militancy" by some optimists seems far from over, given the increase in guerrilla activities in recent months.

Chief Minister Omar Abdullah last month voiced concern over what he called "the joining of militant ranks by some highly-educated Kashmiri youth".

While the installation of sophisticated surveillance equipment like the BSMS is an operational requirement for the army doing a tough job in Jammu and Kashmir, global experience has shown that no surveillance mechanism is better than human intelligence on the ground.

STF........

Khan said.

The minister said he had written to Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde about the resentment among Muslims due to long delay in concluding trial in terrorism cases and was assured of positive action.

Khan said special courts should be set up for speedy justice in such cases. “…There is a perception that Muslims are involved whenever there is blast….This perception is not supported by evidence,” he said, stressing that most suspects are released sooner or later.

He said the arrest of MIM leader, Akbaruddin Owaisi for allegedly making a hate speech while “much lighter treatment” to VHP leader Praveen Togadia, who made a hate speech after Owaisi, was wrong.

The rightwing Hindutva leader should also have been arrested if evidence suggested that he also made provocative statements, he said.

“I do not know (what Togadia said). But if he made a provocation speech like Owaisi, he should be arrested,” he said.

Khan said educational backwardness is the biggest problem facing Muslims and UPA Government is executing various programmes, targeting them.

Rana.........

real agenda of dividing the people over sensitive issues which include Article 370 as well.

“The ill-conceived logic of BJP national general secretary P Muralidhar Rao over Article 370 speaks about his ignorance about the special provision of Constitution that accords special status to Jammu and Kashmir,” Rana said and challenged the votaries of its revocation to get engaged for a discussion as to how they will realize their mischie-

Daily vous agenda.

“Article 370 defines the relationship of Jammu and Kashmir with India”, he asserted while saying that thinking about its revocation is akin to day dreaming.

The Provincial President reiterated that this provision cannot even be abrogated by even Parliament and said knowing well this harsh reality, BJP leadership was indulging in rhetoric just to push their extremist agenda.

He reminded the BJP leadership about the realistic approach of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee over Article 370. Recalling Vajpayee’s reply to a question on Article 370, when he was External Affairs Minister, the veteran leader had said that it is easy to say anything when in Opposition, and it different when in government.

Remembering martyrs, Rana said that the best way of paying tributes to them was to strengthen democracy and secularism in Jammu and Kashmir, which showed the shining example of pluralistic ethos during the most testing times of the history. That was the time when the people galvanized around Sher-e-Kashmir Sheikh Mohammed Abdullah who stood like a rock for Hindu, Muslim and Sikh unity. “This cherished slogan of the towering leader has been the guiding force for National Conference which it has been pursuing with a sense of commitment,” he asserted.

Mufti.........

Musharaf,” he claimed.

Asked to comment on possibility of pre-poll or postpoll alliance between National Conference and Congress, he evaded direct answer, “They are already in alliance and are responsible for the present uncertainty in Kashmir. There is financial indiscipline and there is no governance and accountability in J&K. Due to incompetence of state government Rs 3000 crore remained unspent last fiscal,” he rued.

On hanging of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru, Mufti said, “I wrote a letter to Prime Minister and told him that it was a setback to Kashmiris. By not allowing his son and wife to meet him was against the basics of democracy. I was told that they will discuss the issue with me in Delhi. And when I went there I discussed it with them.”

In reply to a question about the controversy over the latest remarks of Narendra Modi, Mufti said the Gujarat chief minister can’t escape the responsibility for the massacre of 2002. He said the latest remarks of Modi only add insult to injury as they are grossly insensitive and indecent and would certainly offend a great majority of the people in the country. He said Modi instead of trying to make amends for his performance during the riots could further polarize the situation through his insensitive remarks. Paying rich tributes to the martyrs of 1931 for their pioneering contribution to political emancipation of Kashmir, the PDP patron said it was an irony that the day marking a glorious milestone in the history of the state was observed under severe restrictions and total strike.

“This certainly must not have been the dream of those who offered the ultimate sacrifice for the liberation of the state from the feudal and autocratic rule,” he added.

Mufti said it is brazen violation of democratic norms that political leaders had been imprisoned in their homes to prevent them from paying tributes to the martyrs. He said it was condemnable that the present government had almost completely suspended civil liberties and fundamental right to expression. “We can’t claim to be a democracy as long as we have to resort to draconian laws and illegal methods to suppress the voices that government of the day does not like or does not have the capacity to engage and address politically,” he said and added the government is unable to face any occasion without resorting to force and illegal restrictions. “Be it a Friday, Ramzan, Eid, a VIP visit or any other special occasion the insecure government resorts to imprisoning the entire population and arresting political leaders,” Mufti said.

Stressing that full democratic space should be ensured to all political leaders subscribing to any political thought or ideology, Mufti said dictatorial methods adopted by the government would lead nowhere except complicating the problems and adding to mistrust, alienation and anger.

He said during the brief period of PDP-led coalition no prisoners were taken, no leaders were put under house arrest and there was no law and order problem, which is cited by the present government as reason for curtailing the freedom of its political opponents. “If we could run the state without resorting to PSA and other draconian methods, it is not understandable as to why the present govt is denying fundamental rights of expression and movement to political leaders of all kinds,” said Mufti.

PDP patron earlier laid wreaths on the graves of the martyrs.

Posters..........

the Jamia Masjid Ahl-e-Hadith and the Rahat Dedi Masjid Lalchowk. The posters were unsigned and unstamped, but threatened as many as 33 residents by name.

“If the below mentioned persons do not return to the right path, they will be responsible for any damage to their life and property,” the posters, issued in the name of ‘Major Saquib District Commander Hizbul Mujahideen’, read.

ZABARWAN TIMES

Mirwaiz condemns foiling Hurriyat programme Srinagar, July 13: Chairman of Hurriyat Conference (M), Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, on Saturday strongly condemned authorities for foiling amalgam’s July 13 Martyrs Day programme by the shear use of ‘force’.

Mirwaiz said that the amalgam had devised a programme to pay tributes to the martyrs of July 13, 1931 at Martyrs grave yard, Naqashbandh Sahib (RA), here. The conglomerate, he said, had devised that the Hurriyat leaders representing each district would lead the processions from their respective areas and would converge at Jamia Masjid Srinagar. After the processions would assemble there, Chairman would lead a joint procession towards Naqashband Sahib (RA) to pay tributes to the July 13 martyrs.

Mirwaiz, who is currently under house arrest, lamented that the leadership who is promoting the ideals and taking the mission of the July 13, 1931 martyrs forward is being prevented by the police and army from offering tributes by confining them to their houses or in jails.

“It is highly regretful and condemnable that the leadership who is the real custodian of the political and religious mission of the July 13 martyrs is being barred from even

offering special prayers for them,” he said according to a statement, adding, “Ironically, those people who have compromised with the blood of July 13 martyrs were allowed to go to martyrs grave yard with full proof security.”

He said that the Kashmiris were caged by the authorities by imposing restrictions to prevent them from reaching martyrs graveyard.

“This dictatorial tactics are not going to work. Kashmiris would steadfastly pursue the mission for freedom of Jammu and Kashmir whose foundation were laid by the martyrs in July 13, 1931.”

He said despite “oppression”, the conglomerate would continue to pursue the mission of the July 13 martyrs till it reaches its logical conclusion. He said restrictions, house detention, curfew and other hurdles would not deter Hurriyat Conference from pursuing the cause.

Meanwhile, according to the statement, the authorities placed Mirwaiz and other Hurriyat leaders including Moulana Abbas Ansari and Agha Syed Hassan Moosvi Al Safvi under house arrest. “They also imposed announced and unannounced curfew in and around Jamia

‘Reconsider Haj airfare hike, issue passports without hassles’ S r i n a g a r, J u l y 1 3 : Criticising the arbitrary airfare hike for repeat Haj pilgrimage particularly the notification issued in Jammu and Kashmir with regard to this hike, M o h a m m a d Yo u s u f Ta r i g a m i , M e m b e r, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly has urged the state government to take up the issue with both Civil Aviation Ministry and the Central Haj Committee of India at the earliest.

In a statement Tarigami said the subsidy on Haj pilgrimage has already been curtailed by the Government of India in its recent decision to provide subsidy to Haj pilgrims once in a lifetime as against the earlier policy of once in five years.

“Now the latest hike in airfare for repeat pilgrimage is an uncalled for exercise. This decision will deprive many Haj aspirants as they would not be in position take their genuine acquaintances along,” he added.

Tarigami said the latest circular related to airfare hike on repeat pilgrimage is harsher and it is bound deprive many aspirant pilgrims to fulfill their religious obligation. “I appeal the government of India to reconsider the decision of airfare hike especially for Jammu and Kashmir Haj pilgrims and remove anomalies in pilgrimage airfare elsewhere in the country,” Tarigami demanded. He also appealed the central government to address problems being faced by pilgrims in getting passport. “Procedural wrangling in issuance of passport means many Haj aspirants are deprived from going on pilgrimage,” he added.

He said currently, in order to get a passport a person has to take appointment by applying online through passport office, which opens only for an hour.

“The website operates very slow and applicants could not get appointment even after standing in a queue at cyber cafe for hours,” he said and appealed the concerned union ministry to facilitate easy access to Haj pilgrimage aspirants to avail passport facility without any hassles.

Masjid and Naqashbandh Sahib (RA) to freeze the movement of the public who were intending to come there and pay tributes to the July 13 martyrs.”

Meanwhile, senior Hurriyat leader Bilal Gani Lone and other leaders led a large procession to martyrs grave yard Handawara and paid rich tributes to the martyrs and offered Fath-eKhwani, the statement said. Another march led by Agha Syed Hassan Al Moosvi was also stopped by police while it was on its way to Srinagar, Jamia Masjid, the statement said.

“The Hurriyat activists also took out a rally from Mirgund, however, it was foiled by the authorities.”

Senior Hurriyat leader Zaffar Akbar Bhat was arrested after when he was leading a procession from Chanapora, the statement said. Meanwhile, senior leader Mukhtar Ahmad Waza was also arrested and lodged in a jail in Islamabad while other lead ers, Yasmeen Raja and Saleem Geelani were put under house arrest.

Advocate Shahid-ul-Islam who was leading a procession to Nashabandh Sahib (RA) to pay tributes to the martyrs was arrested near Rajouri Kadal, Mirwaiz manzil by police and was lodged in Mahahraj Gun police station, the statement added.

Kundal inaugurates lanes/drains at Rangpur Sidhrey Jammu, July 13: MLC B.R that the UPA government Kundal inaugurated newly headed by Prime Minister constructed Lanes/drain at Manmohan Singh has been Rangpur Sidhrey in R. S. providing liberal funding to Pura completed at a cost of the State so that the various Rs. 7.20 lakh here today. development projects under Among others, Sarpanch e x e c u t i o n w o u l d b e Promila, Vinod, Kamal completed at the earliest.

Kishore, Bhadur Chand, On the occasion, the Naib Sarpanch, Hans Raj, Sarpanchs apprised the Panch Yog Raj, Janak Raj, M L C a b o u t v a r i o u s Ashwani were present on the problems of their respective occasion. Speaking on the areas. Responding to their occasion, the MLC said that demands, the MLC assured the coalition government is them that their geninue committed to provide all demands would be raised at basic facilities to the people appropriate forum and of the State especially living redress in stipulated time in far-flung areas. He said frame.

Geelani concerned over ‘disappearance’ of Kashmiri youth in Mumbai Srinagar, July 13: Hurriyat Conference (G) chairman Syed Ali Geelani has expressed his deep concern over the disappearance and murderous attack on young Kashmiri Parvez Ahmed Telli in Mumbai.

“Kashmiris do not feel safe in any corner of India and police, intelligence agencies and communal

forces are terrorizing Kashmiri people,” he said in a statement. Quoting Chief Minister Omar Abdullah’s claims about the safety of Kashmir outside state, Geelani said, “The claims proved to be a hoax as Kashmiris are still being terrified and harassed at the hands of different agencies.” While emphasizing over immediate

release of Teli, he said that local police have failed to provide any clue and the family members of the missing youth were told that they are not in position to provide any assistance or help. Though Telli has been missing for several days, yet his family is not being provided any kind of information about his whereabouts.

Owner, Printer, Publisher & Editor-n-Chief: Suhail Malik, RNI No: JKBIL/2011/39764, Email: zabarwantimes@gmail.com Published from: Govt. Quarters (M-13) Magarmal Bagh Srinagar -190001, J&K, Printed at: Sangarmal Offset Press Humhama Sheikhpora Tele/Fax: 2478370 Cell No: 09999964750, 9796787844

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Daily ZABARWAN TIMES

Srinagar |Sunday

Sakina addresses public gathering in Khaloora-Noorabad area Kulgam, July 13: Minister for Social Welfare, ARI & Trainings, Ms Sakina Itoo on Saturday visited Khaloora in Noorabad area and took stock of various developmental activities and grievances of the people.

Addressing a huge gathering of people on the occasion, the Minister said that the present Government under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah during the past four and half years has tried its best to address the problems of the people, particularly of those living in far-flung ,hilly and remote areas. She said, the Government has already taken up a number of steps under a strategic approach and comprehensive plan to strengthen the basic facilities to the people. Maintaining that the Government focused on certain vital areas which included, drinking water, power supply, education, health and

Zabarwan Times is available at road sectors which are the basic needs of the people. She said a massive development has been registered in

these sectors and change is visible on ground and people themselves have acknowledged the same. She said

Lone News Agency Kangan Khan News Agency Ganderbal Gulzar News Agency Soura Zahid Book Depot Chadoora Tariq News Agency Hawal Bashir News Agency Nowhatta Muzaffar Ali News Agency Alamgari Bazar Budshah News Agency Lal Chowk Abdullah News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk Gupkari News Agency Lal Chowk Raina News Agency Gund Kangan Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Rashid News Agency Dalgate Srinagar, July 13: Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Hilal News Agency Budgam Lone Agency Bhat News Agency Chadoora A condolence meeting wasNews held today at theTangmarg Directorate of Information, Srinagar to express sympathies with noted Journalist Jammu,News July 13:Agency Kunzar Bhat News Agency Magam Zargar and Correspondent of Delhi News paper Mail Today, Darbased NewsEnglish Agency Beerwah Bashir News Agency Sumbal Mr. Naseer Ahmad Ganaie who’s mother passed away yesterday.

Minister of State for Animal & Sheep Reshi News Agency Safapora Saleem News AgencyAgriculture Pattan & The meeting presided over

by Director Information, Mr. Zaffar AhHusbandry Horticulture, News Agency Reyaz News Pampore mad.The participants inBasharat the meeting conveyed theirBandipora heartfelt conFloriculture Nazir Agency Ahmad Khan (Gurezi) dolences to the bereaved family of Mr. Naseer Ahmad and prayed today laid News emphasis on promotion Altaf News Agency Pulwama Javaid Agency Qazigundof for eternal solace to theJeelani departedNews soul. Agency Baramulla protective cultivation in far flung areas G.M News Agency Sopore Today the Director Information, Mr. Zaffar Ahmad visited the of Jammu division to help farmers to get News Agency his Kupwara Sultan News Agency residence of Mr. NaseerShah Ahmad and conveyed halt felt condoreturns during winters also. Handwara Younis News Agency Langate Sheikh Agency Islamabad lences.

ChainingNews a review meeting of Horticulture, Floriculture and Sericulture Reshi News Agency Islamabad Three Way News Agency Tral Departments of Agency Jammu Division, Turray News Agency Tral Badru News Bijbeharathe Minister exhorted upon field Rahi News Agency Kulgam Malik News Arwani functionaries to Agency tap huge Rah News Agency Byepass Shaheen potential News Agency Horticulture of 1.50 Kargil

Naseer Ganaie bereaved, Mother expires

Shabir inspects Medicare facilities at PHC Marh

Jammu, July 13: Minister of State for Health, Shabir Ahmed Khan today conducted a surprise inspection of Primary Health Centre Marh and took stock of the Medicare facilities in the hospital.

He was accompanied by CMO Jammu Javaid Chib, BMO Marh Dr. Anita Singh.

During the inspection, the Minister inspected each section of the hospital and enquired from patients about the facilities being provided to them. He stressed for maintaining cleanliness and hygienic conditions in the hospital premises.

He directed the hospital administration to ensure that every possible facility was provided to the patients and their attendant.

that government has been making all out efforts to provide transparent and accountable administration to the

Gurezi reviews functioning of Horti, Seri & Flori deptts

lakh Hectare in the region and bring more area under Area expansion programme to ensure the plantation of high yielding varieties so that productivity in the division is boosted and economy of the division is increased.

He emphasized on to promote growing of Mango, litchi and Guava in Jammu, Kathua and Samba area, Stone Fruits in Poonch, Rajouri and Temperate Fruits both fresh and dry in Doda and Kishtwar Districts. He asked the field functionaries to strengthen the Departmental nurseries to produce quality plant material so that farmers get the certified plant material at their door step.

Director Horticulture Jammu, Anil Kumar Sharma, Director Floriculture Jammu, K. K. Sharma, Additional Director Sericulture Jammu, M. L. Chadgal besides Chief Horticulture Officers of all the Districts of Jammu Division, District Level Officers of Horticulture Department, Officers from Floriculture and Sericulture Departments were present in the meeting.

Director Horticulture Jammu briefed the Minister about the Horticultural activities taken up by the Department for

the benefit of the farmers. He informed the Minister that accreditation of Departmental/ Private Nurseries by National Horticulture Board, Ministry of Agriculture, Govt. of India has been geared up in the state to produce and distribute certified plant material among the farming community. The Department has initiated some steps to increase the pro-

Peerzada distributes Rs. 7.10 lakh among NBA beneficiaries Anantnag, July 13: Minister for Floriculture and Haj & Auquf, Peerzada Mohammad Syed, today distributed cheques worth Rs. 7.10 lakh amongst 74 beneficiaries of Damhal Panchayat Halqa in block Achhabal for developing their toilet units under Nirmal Bharat Abhyan programme.

Besides, the Minister also gave away cheques to five deserving beneficiaries as second instalment under Indira Awas Yojana (IAY) at the rate of Rs. 35,000 each for construction of dwelling units in the area.Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that Government was committed to provide better facilities to the people, especially in the rural and far-flung areas and several people friendly programmes have been launched for the purpose. He said Nirmal Bharat Abhyan programme, which is a flag-ship programme of Central Government aimed at to provide assistance to the rural people for developing their toilet units under sanitation campaign. Government bears the expenditure for establishing the toilet units by

the inhabitants in their premises to ensure proper sanitation and neat and clean environment. He asked the people to take advantage of the scheme and establish the toilets units in their homes and help in maintaining the clean environment. He said that all panchayat halqas in the block Achhabal will be covered during the current fiscal.

Similarly, the IAY is also a flagship programme of Central Government and rural people living below the poverty line are eligible for the benefits for construction of their dwelling units. He directed the officers to identify the deserving beneficiaries so that the benefits of the scheme reach out to the needy.

He called upon the officers of various departments to create awareness amongst the people to popularize various Government schemes so that people can avail benefits of these schemes. He asked the people to coordinate with the administration in ensuring overall development in all vital sectors.

Officers of various departments were present on the occasion.

DDC takes stock of development works Anantnag, July 13: The District Development Commissioner, Anantnag, Dr. Farooq Ahmad Lone today visited various areas of Anantnag town and took stock of ongoing developmental works in the town. He was accompanied by a team of district officers also.

Dr. Lone visited Khanabal area and interacted with the people and enquire about the basic amenities being provided to them by the District Administration.The District Development Commissioner also visited Khanabal-Pahalgam road where he took stock of ongoing macadamization work on K.P. Road. He emphasized upon the concerned officers and agencies to speed up the macadamization work and also stressed upon the agencies for transparency in the macadam work.A deputation from Khanabal area called on the District Development Commissioner and apprised him about their problems and demands.Dr. Lone assured the deputation that all the problems and demands would solved in a phased manner on priority basis.

Sadhotra reviews facilities at Yatri Niwas Jammu, July 13: Minister for Planning Ajay Sadhotra today visited Shri Amarnath Yatra Jammu base camp Yatri Niwas Bhagwati Nagar and took stock of the facilities being provided to the pilgrims.The Minister had a round of the Yatri Niwas complex and took stock of boarding, lodging and other facilities made available for the pilgrims. Divisional Commissioner Jammu Pardeep Gupta who accompanied the Minister, briefed him about the facilities being provided to the Yatris for their comfortable stay. Director Tourism Soujanya Sharma, Commissioner JMC K. L. Khajuria, Chief Engineer PDD Shenaz Goni and other senior officers were also present on the

occasion.The Minister impressed upon the concerned officers to gear up their men and machinery so that all the facilities including power, drinking water, sanitation, transport, security, Langar arrangements and other facilities provided to the Amarnathji pilgrims at the base camp and other stations.

He asked CAPD for regular

people and various landmark decisions in this direction have been taken by the present regime. She asked the people for strengthening the hands of Mr Omar Abdullah, to redress their grievances. Referring to the demands of the people, the Minister assured Government will examine their demands on priority and all genuine issues will be addressed appropriately.

In some cases she issued on the spot instructions to the concerned officers for addressing the problems immediately.Regarding the urgent demand of setting up a water supply scheme at the village, the Minister asked the concerned engineers to prepare a detailed project which would be taken up on priority. She also issued necessary instructions to the concerned engineers to formulate a comprehensive proposal for strengthening the power infrastructure in the area to provide better electricity facilities to the locals.

market checking to ensure that the yatris are not overcharged by the shopkeepers during their stay in Jammu.

He hoped that this year’s Yatra will be a grand success.

The Minister said that the government is determined to ensure smooth conduct of the annual yatra besides ensuring all necessary services to the devotees.

ductivity of the fruits in the region by dissemination of modern technology of canopy management and good orchard management practices. The Minister advised the departmental officers to interact with the farmers frequently to aware them about various ongoing schemes and programmes especially sponsored by the Govt. of India The Minister directed the Department to promote protective cultivation in far flung areas of the division so that farmers can produce vegetables and other fresh cash crops during winters.

Sh Gurezi also sought the details of achievements from Director Floriculture and Sericulture and called upon them to encourage commercial Floriculture and Sericulture so that the farmers also participate in these activities to increase their socio economic conditions.

He enquired about the selection process initiated by the Horticulture Department to fill up the vacant posts of Class-IV employees of all Districts and issued the necessary instructions to comply the decision already taken to complete the recruitment process by ending August 2013.

The meeting ended with vote of thanks to the chair.

Sham inaugurates Yamaha Showroom Jammu, July 13: Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control, Sham Lal Sharma, has reiterated the coalition government’s resolve to work for the upliftment and improvement of the living standard of the people living in rural and far-flung areas of the State.

The Minister was speaking after inaugurating Chenab Motor Yamaha Showroom at Darkal Morh, Akhnoor here today.

Sham said that government was committed to provide improved facilities to the people especially to the people living in rural and remote areas to uplift their economic status.

He said that central and state governments have launched a number of welfare schemes for the people and asked them to come forward and avail benefits of these schemes.

Sham asked the unem-

ployed youth to venture into the private sector instead of hankering after government jobs which are limited. He asked them to avail facilities provided under self employment schemes and bank loans for establishing their own income generating units.

He appreciated the efforts of the prop M/S Chenab Motor for opening the showroom and asked the owner to provide job in their firm to local youth.

The Minister apprised about the different self employment schemes, especially designed for the rural folk are available under PMEGP and KVIB. He said that government was providing attractive incentives and subsidies besides providing marketing facilities in and outside the state. He stressed upon the youth to strive in private sector as it has huge scope for progress and growth.

Policeman beheaded by unknown persons in North Kashmir Srinagar, July 13: In a rare incident of its kind, unknown persons killed a policeman by slashing his throat at Harduna forest area of Vilgam village in frontier district of Kupwara in North Kashmir.

Official sources told Global News Service that Head Constable Sanaullah Zargar, son of Abdul Gani Zargar was killed by militants this morning after he was fetching timber from the nearby forest.

Sanuallah Belt no. 940/F posted at DPL Srinagar had gone to his home on leave where he was killed.

On Saturday morning, Sanuallah left towards nearby forests for fetching logs of timber, sources said, adding that assailants (probably militants) may have found police identity card from his possession thus murdered him.

“Sanaullah left his house at around 9 am on Saturday to collect some logs of timber from Hardoona forests. He didn’t return till late afternoon. We tried to contact him on his mobile phone but it was switched off,” a relative of Sanaullah told GNS.

Later on, the family members searched for him and found his body in the nearby forests in a pool of blood.

The death has sent shockwaves in entire Hardoona and its adjoining areas.

“The death have created panic in our area,” Abdul Gaffar Bhat, a local resident said.

Meanwhile, a police spokesman in a statement issued to GNS said that Sanaullah had gone to a nearby forest area of Hangalpora along with his wife for collection of firewood where the duo was intercepted by some unknown militants in the forest.

“Sonnaullah was killed by the militants in a gruesome manner,” the spokesman said, adding that Police has reached the spot and the area has been cordoned off.

The body of the deceased Head Constable was handed over to his relatives for last rites, he added.

Police has registered a case in this regard and started further investigations.

The deceased policeman is survived by his wife and four children including a girl

14 .7.2013

HOROSCOPE Aries

March 21-April 19 More pleasant conditions that are a lot easier to deal with could lull you into a new sense of security in your relationships. Personal and professional interactions should be especially warm and supportive. This should last for a while, Aries, but then the situation will probably revert to whatever it was before. Make the most of the situation while it lasts.

Taurus April 20-May 20

Your sharp intuition and imagination could bring enlightening spiritual insights, Taurus. Metaphysical or religious books could be especially appealing. Relations with close friends and family should benefit from this enhanced sensitivity. You may be able to understand them better because of it. This could be inspiring.

Gemini May 21-June 21

Some intense dreams about someone you haven’t seen for a long time could have you wondering what this person is doing now, Gemini. It might also awaken the desire to be in contact again. Call if you can. You might be pleasantly surprised. An increased psychic sensitivity could cause you to better understand the thoughts and feelings of family members.

Cancer June 22-July 22

Social events or group activities concerned primarily with spiritual, metaphysical, social, or humanitarian issues could take place in your community today, Cancer. These could be enlightening and enjoyable, and you could make some new friends. The exchange of ideas could get your mind going a thousand miles an hour.

Leo

July 23-August 22 Legal papers might need attention today, Leo. This could concern a positive development in financial matters. Though you might not be too clear on the language, you will still be glad to do it since it could represent a highly desirable turn of events for you. New self-confidence could result. You could find more interesting people drawn into your aura. Sparkle and shine!

Virgo

August 23-September 22

A new romance or friendship could develop with someone who’s very creative and shares your spiritual values. This is a very positive development, Virgo. Just avoid idealizing your new friend. This person is human like everyone else, and needs to be loved as is. Don’t create an unrealistic impression of the person. If you acknowledge and accept this, a rewarding new relationship could result.

Libra

September 23-October 23 You could have heightened psychic awareness today. You will probably notice it first when you pick up thoughts and feelings of family members, perhaps coming up with the same words at the same time. You may notice this phenomenon more throughout the day. You might experience visions or powerful premonitions.

Make the most of this ability.

Scorpio

October 24-November 21 Someone who lives near you who may not have said much to you before could suddenly strike up a conversation that results in a new friendship. You could be wondering why you didn’t speak to him or her before. You could share a number of interests, and because of that, you could learn about some new group activities. Don’t push too hard, and don’t idealize your new friend.

Sagittarius November 22-December 21

Some paperwork might need execution today, Sagittarius. This may be tedious, but it’s apt to open new doors for you and pave the way to more success and good fortune. Writing or speaking might be involved in some way, and modern technology plays a definite part in what you will be doing. This could lead to valuable contacts and new friendships. Explore your options.

Capricorn December 22-January 19

Strong intuitive rapport with someone who lives far away could create a desire to contact this person. This is a good idea, Capricorn, as this person may be going through a positive transition in life and eager to share the news. This communication could bring you closer together, so go for it. Whatever is happening with your friend could spill over into your life in some way.

Aquarius January 20-February 18

Your intuition could bring you an interesting opportunity to increase your income in an unconventional way. Others may think the idea strange, but for you it’s definitely worth considering. Check all the pros and cons, talk to people in the know. Whether this is the source or not, an increased level of financial security is strongly indicated now.

Pisces

February 19-March 20 Social events could put you in touch with interesting people involved in intriguing fields like astrology, alchemy, and other occult sciences, or perhaps in social, political, or humanitarian causes. There could be a possible new love interest. You’re going to enjoy these people, Pisces, and probably want to see them again.

You need to make the effort.

Editorial/Opinion The Daily

Zabarwan Times Sunday, 14 July 2013

Regulating Education

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uring the years of turmoil in Kashmir, private schools played a key role in supporting the crumbling education system. When government school teachers enjoyed long holidays due to strikes, curfews and violent situations, private school teachers managed the show. This being the reason that the performance of the government schools deteriorated over the years and even now there are schools in the government sector whose pass percentage is zero. On the other hand private schools are showing hundred percent results. This is only because of accountability in the private schools while as the same is missing in government institutes. Private schools are and have played a key role in boosting quality education system in the Jammu and Kashmir state. Future generation’s strong foundation in education sector is laid by dedicated work of private education institutes. It is hoped that private institutes will fulfil their commitment in imparting best education to the students studying in respective institutes. At the same time institutions should also share their social responsibility of providing quality education to the underprivileged students of the society and train them to compete with their counterparts in the world of competition. Right now there are more than 10000 private education institutes working in the state where more than 2 lac students are studying. The education sector has to achieve new heights in the state and private players have active role to play in universalizing quality education in all parts of the state. The changing competitive atmosphere has forced parents to look for better alternatives so as to enrich their children with good knowledge.

Parents are left with no choice other than getting their wards admitted in private schools, in anticipation of their bright future at any cost, of which the private schools have started to take undue advantage. With the result there has been a significant increase in the number of private schools with each adopting their own unique policies. Their prime role being to impart quality education among the students is under scanner due to their unfriendly practices and now questions are being raised against their duty regarding the development of the students and that of the education. Charging huge sum of money and resorting to unfamiliar admission policies have become common in some of the private schools.

These educational institutes seem to have become more of business houses where one can earn huge amount of profits in contrary to their primarily role of providing the platform where knowledge is gained and shared. Whether they are really concerned about the students and in what sense their actions depict their seriousness in the field of education are the questions that strike one’s mind again and again and need to be answered. Much to the annoyance of the parents they charge huge admission and monthly fee and there is no one who can intervene and look for the solution.

Parents strive hard to meet the day to day requirements of their children and when it comes to the matter of imparting proper and quality education, they tend to choose the best. The admission policies followed by some of the private schools are totally unacceptable. What is the point to interview a child of two to four years when he is yet to learn anything and has come to seek knowledge? Where would the less talented children go if they are discarded of the admissions every where? In addition to the interview policy, some of the private schools also charge a large sum of money on the pretext of having a good infrastructure. It seems that they have forgotten that infrastructure alone could be of no use if the school lacks well trained teachers and engaging curriculum that motivates a child to think and act in the proper way. It is high time when these private schools should realize their role in the field of education and stand abreast in respecting this noble profession. These educational institutes must realize that their prime responsibility is to impart knowledge and they should follow a well laid down admission procedure that does not violate any law and is acceptable by its nature. A well laid down procedure can be formulated by taking into consideration the views of both school authorities and parents. Providing an equal opportunity to the weaker students as well as to guide them so that they too could excel in their field should be the pathway.

Daily

ZABARWAN TIMES 9

Sunday, 14 July 2013

RETAIL INVESTORS The Game Changers Measures to Boost Capital Market Participation

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lobal uncertainties in the financial markets continue to have an impact on our economy. The recent spate of reforms and clarity emerging from government policies, larger FIIs inflows have boosted the Capital markets.

However the depth and breadth of the market continues to be challenging, with retail investors still shying away despite a resurgent Sensex.

While financial sector has become very important in India, the participation in it still remains skewed. It is noticed that apart from banking to a large extent and insurance to some extent, no other financial service has penetrated deep and been accepted widely.

Saving and Investment in India A survey conducted by the National Council of Applied Economic Research in 2011 indicated that among all the households in India, less than 11 percent are investment household and the rest are savers household which have nil exposure to equities, derivatives, mutual funds, debentures, government bonds and corporate bonds.

While developed countries like Australia and Malaysia have nearly 40 percent of the population participating in the capital markets, countries like Germany, United Kingdom and even Hungary run much ahead of India when it comes to retail participation. China, has more than 10 percent of population investing in the capital markets. The corresponding figure for India is 1.3 per cent, which clearly shows that it has a lot to catch up on.

Savings and investment behaviour, to a large extent are guided by the attitude towards risk and Indians in general are risk averse when it comes to savings and investment of their savings. Most Indians in general are inclined to keep the principal safe and thus are willing to accept low returns or no returns resulting in a low participation in the products offering variable returns like equity

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shares.

Those shying away from capital markets, have been investing their money in gold and real estate, which are considered as the natural hedgers of inflation. As a result, Indian companies are forced to primarily depend upon Foreign Institutional Investors for cash inflow.

But this tendency can have a negative effect on wealth creation in the country.

This scenario can be changed with the help of increasing domestic retail investor participation in the equity and debt markets, which in turn will ensure continuous supply of funds to the industrial sector. While attitude towards risk cannot be changed over-night, what can be changed are the all other factors like spreading financial literacy among masses and improving systems and processes to instill confidence among the retail investors and so on.

Steps to Boost Retail Investors Participation Strengthening Regulatory Mechanism Investor protection tops the agenda of India’s capital market regulator – SEBI (Securities & Exchange Board of India).

SEBI Chairman U K Sinha says greedy pricing of IPOs (Initial Public Offers) by promoters have pushed away small investors from markets. His views are backed by the fact that two-thirds of the public issues made during the last three years have been trading continuously below their issue price, even after adjusting for general decline in market.

“There is a concern that Indian market is a casino and you can do anything and get away with it” said Mr. Sinha, while speaking at a National Conference on Capital Markets in Mumbai on January 9.

SEBI now plans to go ahead with a modified version of its safety net mechanism for IPO investors. The proposed safety net mechanism would be triggered in case of those IPOs whose price falls below 20 per cent of the issue price.

The move to have a safety net, however,

has drawn a strong response for and against. Economic puritans argue that since equity is a risk capital, which promises unlimited returns when going gets good, how can anybody be asked to give guarantee of return. They say, it is against the very fundamental principle of equity investment. The regulator, on the other hand says that public issue pricing is an issue in India, and the market needs to be purged of manipulations in IPO pricing by investment bankers.

SEBI has also set up a sophisticated surveillance system mechanism, which is now receiving more than 100 alerts a day, relating to investor grievances. SEBI has also introduced the Investor Helpline, which is presently available in 13 languages. Another initiative set up by SEBI for redressal of investor grievance is the SCORES – SEBI Complaints Redress System, where investors can lodge and follow-up their complaints online on the website.

No Frills Demat Accounts To trade in the market, it is necessary to have a Demat account, where shares and other securities can be held in dematerialized or electronic format. To encourage more and more people to invest in capital markets, no-frills demat accounts have been introduced. Investors can hold securities worth up to Rs.2 lakh in such no-frills accounts. If the value of holding in such accounts exceed Rs. 2 lakh limit, the applicable charges would apply.

Rajiv Gandhi Equity Saving Scheme The government introduced the Rajiv Gandhi Equity Savings Scheme (RGESS), 2012, to encourage retail participation in the capital market. Under the scheme, new investors with annual income up to Rs.10 lakh can invest up to Rs.50,000 to be eligible for a tax break .

SEBI has asked stock exchanges and assets management companies to list the eligible stocks, exchange-traded funds and schemes on their website.

Fixed Income Instruments

Putting all your money in an equity class can be highly vulnerable to risk. To offset this risk, diversification of portfolio is needed. Fixed Income securities cater this need effectively. Presently, the Indian Debt market is dominated by Government securities, which are safe but offer poor returns. On the other hand the Indian Bond Market is still in a premature stage, when compared to other developed countries of the world. Experts at the Capital Market Symposium in Mumbai therefore highlighted the need for Government support for widening the bond market by incentivizing and offering tax concessions. Suggestions were also made for introduction of inflation indexed bonds, which can provide a good hedging options to investors.

Investor Education and Awareness Educating investors about the risks associated with markets is never-ending.

SEBI has been implementing financial literacy programmes through National Institute of Securities Market. It has also been making use of audio-visual and print media to spread investor awareness through radio spots, TV commercials, short documentaries and print advertisements. SEBI is also in talks with the Central Board of Secondary Education to include a course on financial literacy at school level. However, keeping in mind India’s large population and dense rural areas, investor education still has a long way to go. Better collaboration between the regulators, educators, exchanges, and financial companies along with online connectivity will hold the key to success.

Financial Inclusion The government has laid greater stress on financial inclusion, which, besides widening access to banking facilities, will in the long run create a platform for spreading financial literacy. Increased participation of retail investors can be reached only with the help of an efficient and wide reach of banking services in the country.

Making Coal Mining Environment Friendly

he Government has evolved a and minimizing road transportation to environmental attributes are carried out Limited (CCL) for areas like Piparwar, very cautious procedure for reduce pollution. Massive trees planta- as per Environment (Protection) Act, NK Dakra, Argada, Barkasayal, mining projects in view of tion in and around mines also minimises 1986 to assess the efficacy of environ- Rajrappa, Dhori, B&K, Kathara, Kuju, apprehensions expressed time the impact of air pollution on neighboring mental protection measures taken and if Hazaribagh (Charhi), Rajhara. Mahanadi to time about the Coal mining impact on areas. required additional measures are taken to Coalfields Limited (MCL) has acquired social forestry, environment and social Water Pollution Control keep the various environmental attributes land belonging to Tribals in Sundargarh, life of locals residing around mining Mine water is being passed through within the prescribed limits of the Jharsuguda and Angul districts of Orissa. areas. Before commencement of sedimentation pond to arrest sediments Regulatory Agencies.

In coal projects of Western Coalfields production from coal mines, the impact and clean runoff is being used for Health Protection Limited (WCL) people residing in on existing social forestry and environ- beneficial use such as domestic, indus- Coal India Limited has specific Schemes Gaonthan areas, Betul Tahsil, Tamla & ment due to the project is assessed by an trial and agricultural purpose, after to protect the health of the people living in Jamal Tribal Blocks, Seergaon Khurd, Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) treatment to extent possible, before and around the coal mining areas. As per Kirwani of Patwari Circle, Chhindwara, study for each case and accordingly discharging into natural water courses. the Corporate Social Responsibility Rajura Tahasil tribals are resettled after Environmental Management Plans Effluents from workshops is passed Scheme of CIL there is a separate fund providing compensation of land/houses (EMP) are prepared. EMPs deal with the through Oil & Grease Traps and recycled allocated at the rate of Rs.5/- per tonne of and other Rehabilitation & Resettlement various pollution mitigation measures to for dust suppression and for cleaning coal production of last year and the entire (R&R) benefits as per provisions of R&R be undertaken to mitigate the impact of purposes. In major mines, domestic fund is year-marked for expenses towards Policy of Coal India Limited (CIL). pollution, in order to reduce any adverse effluents are being treated in Domestic well being of the people living in and Better Rehabilitation Package effect on health of people in and around Effluent Treatment Plants and in other around the coal mining areas/belts and in The compensation package for the project the mining area, as per requirement of the mines in septic tanks. the state in which projects are situated. affected persons and others has been project. The EMPs are submitted to Noise Pollution Control From the fund a lumpsum provision is revised recently, in 2012,to make it more Ministry of Environment and Forests Noise pollution is controlled through the made for schemes for the benefit of Tribal rewarding. Now in the case of displace(MoEF) for obtaining Environmental careful selection of equipment, proper Population in the CSR Policy of Coal ment of tribal people, in addition to land Clearance (EC). maintenance and insulation. Persons India Limited. As per Policy out of total compensation as per State notified rate, The measures are taken for each coal exposed to high noise level are being CSR Budget, 8% of the Budget is interest, escalation, solatium at the rate of p r o j e c t a s p e r E n v i r o n m e n t a l provided with ear muffs. This is besides allocated separately and exclusively in 30% of the land compensation is paid.

Management Plan (EMP’s) and strict tree plantation between work places and the Annual Plan for undertaking welfare Besides this one employment for each two monitoring mechanism has been residential areas. activities for the development of acres of land is also provided to the affected provided to ensure all norms are fol- Ecological Damage Control Scheduled Tribes Population. family. There is additional special lowed. Air, Water, and Noise pollution Damage to ecology is being controlled by Rehabilitation of Tribals provisions for tribals who are dependent on control has been taken up seriously to plantation on physically and biologically Displacement of tribals is avoided by forest produce and there are provisions in safeguard environment. reclaimed mined out areas and on the OB exploring alternate plans for the projects the rehabilitation policy to ensure Cultural Air Pollution Control dump areas, plantation in and around but in unavoidable circumstances due to and economical sustainability of the Air pollution is being controlled by mines, road sides, township / residential geological reasons, locals,tribals people displaced Tribal community. In addition to regular spraying of water on haul and coal areas, available vacant spaces and have to be displaced and resettled in some this at the rehabilitation site all amenities transportation roads by fixed as well as implementation of conservation plan for of the areas of the Subsidiary Companies. like school, road, street light, pacca drain, portable water sprinklers and also on Coal protection of flora and fauna as per EC. The same has been done in conformity pond, dug well,tube well for drinking water Handling Plants, all coal transfer points, This is apart from the payment made for with the various extant laws of the land. supply, community centre, place of Coal & Overburden (OB) faces, coal compensatory afforestation to forest Since inception in Eastern Coalfields worship, dispensaries, grazing land for stockpiles etc. Other steps include - fitting departments.

Limited (ECL) tribal people have been cattle and play ground etc., are provided to drills with dust collection systems wet In addition the environmental protection displaced in Rajmahal, SP Mines, have a better life. Monitory compensation drilling, black topping, concreting of coal measures are taken in compliance to Mugma, Sonepur Bazari, Pandaveswar in lieu of house plots and shifting & transportation roads. Efforts are being condition of consent to operate from and Kajora as also for South Eastern resettlement allowance @ Rs.3 lacs per made for use of more and more belt respective State Pollution Control Coalfields Limited (SECL) in Gevra OCP family as per heir choice according to CIL conveyors, rail etc. for coal transportation Boards. Regular monitoring of various Expansion and in Central Coalfields R&R Policy, 2012.

Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer.

HE A L+H 58

ZABARWANTIMES ZABARWAN TIMES SUNDAY | 14 JULY 2013

Every now and then, the food and beauty industry discovers a new player that makes it tremble with excitement.

Sometimes it's backed by research, sometimes it's just a new, undiscovered element that a marketing genius stumbled upon and launched, to the delight of an enamoured audience of consumers. This search for the new, the 'It' ingredient is constantly on. But how many of these are actually good for you? What do the ones that are supposed to be good actually do? Who should be careful about overdosing on them? We took four items — quinoa, argan oil, edamame beans and agave — and put them under the scanner. Here's everything you must know about them: Quinoa What is it?

It's a seed widely used as a grain.What are its health benefits?

According to nutritionist and counsellor Pooja Kothari, quinoa is a rich source of protein, fibre, calcium, phosphorous,

iron and other essential minerals. It helps regulate blood pressure and blood sugar levels, relax muscle spasms, clear the intestines and keep the body toxin-free.

What else?

Nutritionist Tripti Bhandari recommends quinoa to those looking to lose weight, as it performs the function of a carbohydrate without adding the calories.

How should it be consumed?

Bhandari suggests cooking it as a brown rice replacement — in upma, dalia, pudding or kheer. To derive maximum benefit, Kothari suggests soaking it in water for seven to eight hours before you consume it.

Who should avoid it?

If you have gout or high uric acid, avoid quinoa.

Worth the hype?

Yes Edamame What is it?

Baby soy beans.

What are its health benefits?

It's a rich source of dietary

protein. "They contain a high amount of antioxidants and a low amount of oil with a little saturated fat, aiding hormonal balance and production of other essential enzymes," Kothari says.

What else?

It is also a rich source of Vitamins B, K and E, and contains minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, copper and folic acid. It strengthens the immune system and in pregnant women, it's good for the development of the foetus.

It also reduces cholesterol, helps weight loss and has anti-inflammation properties.

How should it be consumed?

Kothari suggests you boil it till the pod becomes soft, and then add it to soup and salads, or simply eat it with some salt and spices.

If you can coax an edamame sabzi out of it, go ahead!

Who should avoid it?

Same as quinoa, gout (high uric acid) and thyroid patients should avoid edamame, according to

Omega-3 and Turmeric to Repair Spinal Cord Injuries Two dietary supplements may be helpful in addressing age-related damage to the neck and spinal cord.

Researchers at UCLA have shown that two natural compounds - curcumin in the Indian curry spice turmeric and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil - appeared to offset the effects of a spinal injury in rats. The animals were given a condition that simulates cervical myelopathy, a set of symptoms seen in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporosis.

The investigators fed one group of rats foods similar to a typical Western diet; a second group received regular rat chow supplemented with DHA and curcumin; a third group were given standard rat chow as a control. After three weeks, the rats on the Western diet had progressive problems with walking. The curcumin/ DHA group walked better than this group, and examination of their spinal cords showed that the rats

If you end up with a rash on a new tattoo, don't brush it off as an allergic reaction or a normal part of the healing process, says a study.

A recent study documents many cases in the Rochester, New York area, of tattoos infected with a type of bacteria often found in tap water. Evidence points to a pre-mixed grey ink, the type used in currently popular portrait or photography tattoos, as the culprit.

Mary Gail Mercurio, dermatologist at the University of Rochester Medical Centre, examined the individuals infected. She says some people with tattoos have allergies or experience other dermatologic complications, but it's not common.

"Patients and doctors need to have a certain level of suspicion when they see a rash developing in a tattoo. Many of the patients I saw thought their skin was just irritated and the issue would go away during the healing process," Mercurio was quoted as saying by

Bhandari.

Worth the hype?

Yes Argan oil What is it?

An oil extracted from a bush called Argan that grows in Morocco and some other parts of the world. On account of its rareness and exclusivity, it's also very expensive.

What are its health benefits?

It has high concentrations of antioxidants, omega-6 and Vitamin E, which nourishes skin and hair.

What else?

It's light and thus absorbed easily. It helps reduce acne, scarring, wrinkles and psoriasis. It can also be used in cooking and it reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Worth the hype?

No. Dr Apoorva Shah of Richfeel says Argan oil's health benefits are the same as those of any other hair oil. Shah's advice is to oil your hair thrice a week, drink a glass of water every hour, and maintain a balanced diet to get the hair you desire.

The New England Journal of Medicine.

"In actuality, they had an infection that needed to be treated with an antibiotic; it wasn't going to go away easily on its own," added Mercurio, according to a Rochester statement.

The investigation of the outbreak, which was also highlighted in the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention's Morbid-

trol group. These finding suggest that DHA and curcumin may help minimize disease-related changes and possibly help repair damage to the spinal cord.

ity and Mortality Weekly Report, started with a previously healthy 20-yearold man who had a history of multiple tattoos in the past without any issues.

In October 2011, he received a new tattoo on his arm and subsequently developed a persistent, inflamed rash in that area.

After learning of his case, the Monroe County Department of Public Health

What the researchers found

"For people who have a tendency to form the most common type of kidney stones, iced tea is one of the worst things to drink," Dr. John Milner, an assistant professor in the department of urology at the Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, said in a news release. Researchers went on to explain that the drink contains high levels of oxalate, a chemical that leads to the formation of small crystals made of minerals and salt found in urine. Although these crystals are usually harmless, the researchers cautioned they could grow large enough to become wedged in the small tubes that drain urine from the kidney to the bladder.

"A lot of people choose to drink more iced tea, because it is low in calories and tastes better than water. However, in terms of kidney stones, they

might be doing themselves a disservice," added Milner.

Nutritionist says...

Ice tea may not be all that much low in calories, says nutritionist Dr Priya Karkera. "This is because one tends to add sugar to it. I also feel that ice tea can be a contributing factor to kidney stones and is avoidable to be had on a regular basis." She also recommends that those who are at risk for kidney stones should reduce certain foods that contain high concentrations of oxalates, including spinach, chocolate, and nuts. Salt and

From shoes that help you tone as you walk to sports bras that burn fat as you wear them, it's clear that nothing you wear can help you shed pounds. The shoes may help you activate different muscles,

You temporarily cleanse your body eating only a few foods or following a cleanse formula. But the truth here is that your liver and kidneys already do a great job detoxing your body. You can lose water weight during a detox, but you can also lose muscle mass due to a lack of nutrients. Your metabolism can take a beating and your fat storage can actually go up.

Prefer eating foods that flush your system so you don't need to be cleansed.

A new report from Tufts University suggests that higher daily doses of vitamin D - between 800 and 2000 IUs - can significantly lower the risk of fractures for both men and women age 65 and older. The research team analyzed 11 separate clinical trials that studied the effect of vitamin D supplementation in more than 31,000 seniors. They found a 30 percent reduction in the risk of hip fractures and a 14 percent reduction in the risk of other fractures among those whose daily vitamin D intake ranged from 800-2000 IUs. The investigators reported that they saw no benefit to taking doses of “D” below 800 IUs daily for prevention of fractures.

They also noted that unless older adults are exposed to bright sunlight year-round they need supplements to maintain adequate amounts of “D” and that typical consumption from foods, including tuna, salmon or fortified milk adds up to only 150 IUs per day. Most multivitamins provide only 400 IUs. The study was published on July 5, 2012 in The New England Journal of Medicine.

My take? I recommend a daily dose of 2000 IU of vitamin D, although that amount may increase as research continues. Not only is this vitamin essential for bone

explored the issue and identified other individuals who developed similar rashes after getting tattoos at the same parlour, from the same artist.

Tests conducted at the Rochester Medical Centre revealed that a specific type of bacteria, Mycobacterium chelonae, was in the patients' skin and led to the red, itchy bumps in their tattoos.

Scientists are to begin clinical trials to determine if eating more foods rich in vitamin E during pregnancy prevents childhood asthma.Women will eat soups naturally high in the vitamin, which it is believed may promote lung growth in the developing foetus.Children born with good lung function are less likely to develop asthma.

Details of the trial were outlined at the British Science Festival being held in Aberdeen.

Asthma is highly prevalent - in the UK, 10-15% of children and 5-10% of adults have been diagnosed with the disease.

The majority of children with asthma will carry the illness into adulthood.

The disease is managed by preventing and relieving the major symptoms - breathlessness, wheezing and coughing - using inhalers and, in extreme cases, with steroid tablets.

There has been a recent increase in the prevalence of asthma in children.

To try to understand why, a team of researchers from the University of Aberdeen

established a cohort of approximately 2,000 women and measured the impact of diet on the incidence of asthma in children up to the age of five.Prof Graham Deveraux, who led the study, said: "We were able to show, for the first time, that children born to mums with a lower vitamin E intake during pregnancy were more likely to develop asthma by the age of five and have poor lung function."These early findings were then confirmed in studies carried out in Japan and the US. The next challenge for the researchers was to show that altering nutrition during pregnancy could positively impact on a child's susceptibility to asthma.

Avoiding potions and pills Prof Deveraux considered that a trial using vitamin supplements lacked credibility - trials of vitamins to treat various conditions had so-often failed.

He said the key may be intake in food.

"People have never actually eaten vitamin E tablets; normally most people get

Whether it is shoes that help you look shapely or pills that help you shed weight, here are a few fads and reasons you should avoid them We've all seen fitness products and diets advertised on television, radio and in stores. They might promise a fitter and a slimmer you in a week but it might not be advisable to adapt them.Only-one-ingredient dietsA diet based solely on eating cottage cheese, a vegetable-only lunch, just grapefruit all day - It's obvious when a diet has you eating only one food or ingredient, it's a bad fad.

Your body needs a variety of foods, including grains, healthy fats and protein to thrive. Eat real food and avoid diets that have you skipping out on entire food groups.

Toning apparel

on the Western diet had higher levels of a marker linked to cell-membrane damage. The DHA/curcumin group had marker levels similar to the con-

If you have always liked to reach for that glass of ice tea, preferring that to a beverage, think again.

For, a study indicates that drinking iced tea can contribute to the development of painful kidney stones, due to its high concentration of oxalate, one of the key chemicals that could result in the formation of kidney stones.

but you can't rely on them to lose weight or really increase your fitness level.

Start on a real workout exercising, dancing, yoga etc to get fit and slim.

Pole dance workout

It's true that dancing sessions help you stay fit, but what is it with the pole?

How does learning pole dance from fitness professionals help you lose weight? There's nothing wrong with pole dancing if you enjoy it, but it's not a great idea for a standard fitness routine.

Cleansing

meat are extremely harmful. Drink several glasses of water as well one glass of barley water a day can help, she advises.

Beverages that can help

Lemon juice is a good drink to keep the kidneys hydrated, as the citrates present in lemonade inhibits the growth of kidney stones.

"Drinking several glasses of water as well one glass of barley water a day can help," advises Dr Karkera

strength - and as this new study suggests, for prevention of fractures - research has shown that it may lower risks of a number of serious diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease, autoimmune disorders, and diabetes. Unfortunately, vitamin D deficiency is widespread. It is now estimated that hundreds of thousands of cancer cases worldwide might be prevented each year if we all had adequate daily intakes. Don't be concerned that 2,000 IU will give you too much. With exposure to sunlight in the summer, the body can generate between 10,000 IU and 20,000 IU of vitamin D per hour with no ill effects.

In addition, no adverse effects have been seen with supplemental vitamin D intakes up to 10,000 IU daily. Always take your vitamin D with a fat-containing meal to ensure absorption.

their vitamin E from food.

"I wondered whether it might be the other nutrients that go with vitamin E in food that may be responsible for the effect.

There may be interactions between vitamin E and the other nutrients."So, I was very keen to do a dietary intervention rather than a pill or a potion."With the help of a team of dietitians, he performed a small study on pregnant women to see if he could manipulate their diet to increase their vitamin E intake up to the recommended levels and, he says, "it worked a treat".But vitamin E was not the only thing that altered, as Prof Deveraux observed: "Lots of other things changed, like the fatty acids changed, the zinc changed, the selenium, the vitamin D - and all these are nutrients which we know have been associated during pregnancy with childhood asthma."

Whilst the results vindicated their overall approach, the dietary interventions were too complex and would not be readily accessible to a wide range of society. Also it was difficult

to standardise and control.

Super soups To overcome these problems, the team approached a commercial soup manufacturer to develop a range of enhanced soups. Each one is naturally rich in vitamin E - and other potentially important minerals - and for each there is a similarly tasting "normal" soup that could be used for the control group of pregnant women.By judicious tweaking of ingredients for example, substituting normal tomatoes found in cream of tomato soup with their super-nutritious sun-dried counterparts they were able to develop three new varieties of "super-soups".The team now plan to test the soups in a small pilot study involving 50 women. They will be enrolled during early pregnancy and asked to eat either enriched or normal soup three times a week.The study will show whether the new dietary intervention is well tolerated by the women and - by carrying out blood measurements -

NATION

7 SRINAGAR Sunday, July 14 ,2013

Kashmir Thunder Sunday 14 July2013

Congress will not declare Rahul as PM candidate: Digvijaya

New Delhi: The Congress will not declare Rahul Gandhi as its Prime Ministerial candidate in the Lok Sabha elections, senior party leader Digvijaya Singh hinted today while dismissing suggestions that BJP’s projection of Narendra Modi is a challenge to it.

He also did not say whether Prime Minister Manmohan Singh could be a candidate for the top post once again if the party wins next year’s elections.

Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi and party General Secretary Digvijaya Singh. PTICongress Vice President Rahul Gandhi and party General Secretary Digvijaya Singh. PTI “We do not have a presidential form of government. Congress party does not declare PM or CM candidates before elections…Even in the Karnataka Assembly elections, we had not declared any CM candidate,” Singh told PTI in an interview.

He was replying to questions why Congress was diffident about projecting Rahul Gandhi, why it should not project him and who is the PM candidate of Congress.

Singh also gave indications that the Congress was not averse to doing business with the Left after the next elections and apprehended that the advent of Modi could lead to communal polarisation in the polls.

Asked about BJP’s elevation of Modi as its election campaign chief, just a step short of announcing him the prime ministerial candidate, Singh said, “We are not concerned. It is not an issue with us. BJP is free to take any decision. We are in the politics of ideology and not personality…

Congress party does not believe in the

politics of polarisation.”

Asked whether Congress treats Modi as a political challenge and about Union Minister Jairam Ramesh’s comments that Modi presented managerial and ideological challenge to the party, Singh said, “The very name of Modi and before that of LK Advani give an impression of polarisation.”“It is not Modi. It is the ideology of the Sangh and the BJP which believes in divisive politics. Politics of hatred and violence based on religious lines, which is the challenge,” he said.

Singh sidestepped a query on whether

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh could again be Congress’ PM candidate. “First the country has to give us a mandate again and then the Parliamentary Party and the party chief have to take a decision in consultation with elected MPs,” he said.

To a question on whether Left Front, which supported the UPA I government from outside is a natural ally of the Congress, Singh said, “We had very good experience for the first four years of working with the Left in UPA I but unfortunately Left made a big issue of the nuclear bill” and withdrew support to the government.

Don't divide nation, be an Indian nationalist: Digvijaya Singh to Narendra Modi Congress leader Digvijaya Singh today assailed Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi's remarks describing himself as a 'Hindu nationalist', saying "shouldn't we all be Nationalist Indians" and asked the BJP leader not to 'divide the nation" on the basis of religion.

A day after Modi's remarks sparked a political furore, Singh said on Twitter, "Shouldn't we all be Nationalist Indians rather than Hindu Nationalist or Muslim Nationalist or Sikh Nationalist or Christian Nationalist ?"

Related: Modi says did the right thing in 2002, his 'puppy' analogy triggers outrage In another tweet, he also took a jibe at Sangh Parivar saying, "Don't divide this Great Nation on basis of religion which Savarkar and Jinnah did. They were the original authors of Two Nation theory."

Hitting out at fundamentalism in all forms, he said in another tweet that he heard Pakistani teen activist Malala Yousafzai, who survived after being shot by the Taliban for

supporting girl's education, addressing the United Nations."What a powerful condemnation of Taliban and all forms Fundamentalism.

She has now become an Icon for World Literacy.

"Congratulations to her and let us resolve to fight for all that she stands for! May God give her a long life and the strength she deserves," the Congress general secretary said hailing the 16-year-old.The tweets of Singh, a known detractor of the controversial Gujarat Chief Minister, came close on the heels of Modi's attempts to defend himself against allegations of inaction during the 2002 riots in Gujarat."Even If I am in the back seat of a car and a puppy comes under the wheels, isn't it painful? It is.Whether I am a chief minister or not, I am a human being. I will be

sad if something bad happens anywhere," Modi was quoted as saying in an interview.

The Gujarat chief minister said he had done "absolutely the right thing" during the 2002 riots and that his government had used its "full strength" to set things in order.

"I am nationalist. I'm patriotic.

Nothing is wrong. I am born Hindu.

Nothing is wrong. So I'm a Hindu nationalist. So yes, you can say I'm a Hindu nationalist because I'm a born Hindu," he had said.

Meerut girl Razia Sultan conferred with the first UN Malala Award Meerut: Razia Sultan, a 15-year-old girl from Meerut, has been conferred with the first United Nation Malala Award on Friday for spreading awareness on education among child labourers.

After being rescued by a non-governmental organisation (NGO), Razia joined a school and eventually went to different regions as a youth leader representing the NGO and carried out door-to-door campaigns on child education.She was awarded on July 12 which has been heralded as Malala Day to mark her fight for right to education.

Malala Yousafzai addressed a Youth Assembly at UN headquarters in New

York on her 16th birthday on Friday.

Teenager activist Malala was shot in the head at close range by the Taliban in October last year as she left school in Pakistan's Swat Valley, northwest of the country's capital Islamabad, after campaigning against the Islamist Taliban efforts to deny women education.

“My own perception is that with Left, we know the parameters in which we work together. It is easier to work with the Left because we know the parameters in which they work,” he said.

About the political fallout of the JD(U) walking out NDA in Bihar and whether it can be a part of UPA, Singh said this is an issue which has to be considered by the Congress high command.

“Nitish Kumar did not resign when there was an accident in Godhra and he was Railway Minister though Ram Vilas Paswan had resigned. Now he (Kumar) has taken a positive step, which is of course a very bold step, which we are appreciating.

“My own view is if he had shown this courage in the last Bihar election, the BJP would not have got so many seats and BJP would have landed in the same position as in Odisha where Naveen Patnaik asked them to leave the coalition,” he said.

Asked as to whether RJD was its natural ally in Bihar, Singh said it was for the Antony Committee to decide.

The fact remains that RJD chief Lalu Prasad was supporting the Congress President and the Congress even before 2004, he said.To a query about the poll-plank of Congress for 2014 Lok Sabha elections, he said, “Our campaign theme will be on the basis of the work done in the last ten years and the work we will be doing in the next five years.”

“UPA-II has managed to give a sustained growth even in the worst economic crisis the world is facing. UPA pumped more money in lot of development schemes that led to high spending in rural areas,” Singh said.

DAILY ZABARWAN TIMES 1984 anti-Sikh riots case: Supreme Court refuses to hear Jagdish Tytler's plea Tytler had approached the apex court challenging the high court's July 3 order that refused to grant interim stay on the trial court's order.

The Supreme Court has refused to entertain Congress leader Jagdish Tytler’s plea seeking a stay on an order of the trial court directing the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to conduct a further probe into his alleged role in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case.A bench headed by Justice P Sathasivam on Friday said that the apex court should not interfere in the matter at this stage as the case is pending in the Delhi High Court which is scheduled to hear it on September 18.Sensing the mood of the bench, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi agreed to withdraw the petition which was allowed by the court.Tytler had approached the apex court challenging the high court’s July 3 order that refused to grant interim stay on the trial court’s order.The high court had refused to stay the probe saying, “Only investigation is ordered and this court will not stop the investigation.Tytler had on May 30 moved the high court challenging the trial court order setting aside the CBI’s closure report giving him a clean chit in the 29-year-old case and directing the probe agency to examine eye-witnesses and people claiming to have information about the riots.Tytler, in his plea before the high court, had said that the trial court order is contrary to the scheme of code of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC).The method and mode of investigation by a probe agency is the absolute prerogative of the agency.

Solar panel scam: Demand for Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy resignation gathers momentum The scam relates to a series of fraudulent solar panel installation deals offered by a firm owned by Saritha Nair and her friend Biju Radhakrishnan who lured customers to invest money in their deceptive schemes.

The Communist Party of IndiaMarxist (CPM)-led Left Democratic Front (LDF) in Kerala continues to stage state-wide protest rallies over a demand for the resignation of Chief Minister Oommen Chandy for his alleged role in a scam involving the manufacture and sale of solar panels.

The LDF has sought a judicial probe in the matter.

The United Democratic Front (UDF) headed by the Congress Party rules Kerala while the LDF is the main opposition in the state.

The scam relates to a series of fraudulent solar panel installation

Centre, state govts should end SL navy's 'high handed' behaviour: Fishermen

NAGAPATTINAM: Fishermen from coastal areas of this district on Saturday did not set out to sea demanding that the Centre and state governments contain the alleged "high handed" behaviour of Sri Lankan naval-men who frequently cut their fishing nets and damage their boats.

Officials said Lankan naval personnel had routinely snapped the nets of several fishermen last week when they were fishing in the Palk Straits, which was not the island nation's territory.

The fishermen demanded effective intervention by the Union and state governments to put an end to such high handed behaviour of the Lankan naval-men, they said.

deals offered by a firm owned by Saritha Nair and her friend Biju Radhakrishnan who lured customers to invest money in their deceptive schemes.

Opposition parties in the state have alleged that Chandy had vital role in this scam.

As part of the state-wide rallies,

supporters of the LDF held demos outside the secretariat in Thiruvananthapuram on Friday.

Speaking to the media, NK Premachandran, a leader of Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP) which is a constituent of the LDF, said that to escape from accountability in the irregularities, the ruling Congress party was shrewdly indulging in cosmetic cabinet changes to shield Chandy.

He claimed that the scam worth millions of rupees had duped thousands of investors.

The chief minister’s office has come into the picture after it was revealed that three officials from the chief minister's secretariat made a number of calls to Nair, an accused in the fraud of supplying solar panels.

Consequently, the two officials from the secretariat were removed from their positions.

Shibu Soren-Hemant Soren first father-son duo to have been Jharkhand Chief Ministers While the senior Soren had three short terms at the helm of affairs between 2005 and 2010, Hemant was administered the oath of office

by Governor Syed Ahmed on Saturday morning.

JMM president Shibu Soren and new Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Saturday became the first father and son to have ruled the state.

While the senior Soren had three short terms at the helm of affairs between 2005

and 2010, Hemant was administered the oath of office by Governor Syed Ahmed on Saturday morning.

However, across the country there have been many such in-

stances.

Most recently, Akhilesh Yadav of Uttar Pradesh donned the mantle following the footsteps of his father Mulayam Singh Yadav while Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah followed his father Farooq Abdullah.

The others are Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik and Biju Patnaik, Haryana's Devi Lal and Om Prakash Chautala, Maharashtra's Shankarrao Chavan and Ashok Chavan.

Pressure and threats made us lie earlier: Ishrat witnesses to CBI Policemen who testified before the CBI on the possibility of Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi and former state home minister Amit Shah knowing about the Ishrat Jahan encounter in advance, told the agency that they had now decided to tell the truth in order to save innocent men named in the original FIR, and that their earlier statements had been made under pressure from senior officers.

"In all above situations (earlier probes) I have not narrated the entire truth," retired DSP D H Goswami said, according to statements annexed to the CBI's chargesheet filed on July 3.

Related: 'Forensic officials colluded with Gujarat cops to show Ishrat encounter as genuine' "The reason was I believed that innocent officers and men might suffer and wrong motives may be attributed to what they did as part of their duty and in compliance of the instructions of their senior officers. However, I understand now that the converse is true,

and that unless the truth is disclosed the officers and men who didn't commit a serious crime may also get involved in the charge of conspiracy... and our statements... would implicate them in this case," Goswami said.

Goswami was an investigating officer for the Gulberg Society massacre case in the Supreme Court-appointed SIT under former CBI director RK Raghavan.

Othr policemen have given reasons like "pressure from seniors" and being "afraid" of the consequences, for not telling the truth for nine years. Most of these witnesses testified at least four times before the case went to CBI: before Crime Branch investigator ACP Parixita Gurjar in 2004, then before the Gujarat High Court-appointed SIT in 2009, and twice in 2011 before the SIT. * In his statement to CBI DSP G Kalaim-

ani, retired ASI Nizamuddin Saiyed, who witnessed the abduction of Ishrat and Javed Sheikh, said he was under "tremendous pressure not to disclose the truth", and had got the courage to defy the pressure only after the encounter was proved to be false. * Then Police Inspector K S Desai, who was witness to the illegal detention of Amjadali Rana at Arham Farm and Javed and Ishrat at Khodiyar Farm, and the killings at Kotarpur, said: "In all the above situations I have not narrated the entire truth, as it has been known to me. I was under pressure from (DSP) Shri N K Amin to not speak the truth."* Retired ASI Chhagan Barot, who was the driver of the then Crime Branch officer Tarun Barot and who witnessed the abduction of Ishrat and Javed from Vasad toll booth, said: "I did not state the truth (earlier) because I was under instructions to speak as per the (2004) FIR. Now Shri Barot, Shri (G L)

Singhal (then Crime Branch ACP) and Shri J G Parmar (then in the Crime Branch) have been arrested... So I want to speak the truth now."* I K Chauhan, who witnessed the abduction of Amjadali Rana and the encounter, said, "When the case was investigated by SIT, I did not tell the above facts... because Shri Tarun Barot time and again used to threaten/warn me that if I spoke the truth then the consequence would be very serious."

Former DSP Goswami, who was reader to G L Singhal in 2004, described a meeting between the accused officers two days before the encounter, at which references were allegedly made to Modi and Amit Shah.

On June 12, 2013, Goswami told the CBI that he had accompanied Singhal to the Crime Branch headquarters around 7.30 pm on June 13, 2004, and had seen then SIB joint director Rajinder Kumar and then joint CP (Crime) P P Pandey sitting with D G Vanzara in his chamber.

"I remember Shri Rajinder Kumar telling Shri Vanzara to speak to the chief minister

about it, and Shri Vanzara saying he would talk to the 'safed dadhi' and the 'kali dadhi', the well known monikers in the Crime Branch for... Shri Narendra Modi and minister of state for home Shri Amit Shah," Goswami said in his statement. oswami said he "vaguely remembered" that Singhal had disagreed with the motive in the draft FIR pre-designed on June 14, 2004 for the encounter to be faked the following day. "But Shri Vanzara was adamant and even said that he had the approval of the chief minister and MoS (home)."

The statement of another officer, K M Vaghela, who had worked with Vanzara for long, too made mentions of "safed dadhi" and "kali dadhi", suggesting that Modi and Shah probably knew about the encounter in advance. Vaghela's statement was recorded on April 13, 2013.ASI Nizamuddin Saiyed in his statement described how Tarun Barot had "... almost snatched Shri I K Chauhan's revolver and fired on the Indica car with it" after having emptied his own weapon.