Zabarwan Times E-Paper English 16 May 2014

C M Y K

FRIDAY 16 May | 2014 | 16 Rajab, 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |

Pen

http://www.zabarwantimes.com

Enters 3rd round

For

VOL

Jus

tice

Srinagar, May 15: Six persons were injured in two different road accidents. A Tata Sumo bearing registration number JK01N/3174 hit and injured a pedestrian Jameel Ahmad Mir resident of Tangdhar at Tikker, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Kupwara. The injured was shifted to Sub District Hospital, Kupwara for treatment. Police has registered a case in this regard. According to a statement issued to KNS, a Tavera bearing registration number JK02AW/2047 turned turtle on National Highway at Kadlabal, Awantipora, in the jurisdiction of Police Station Awantipora.

In this accident five persons who were travelling in the vehicle received injuries. All the injured were shifted to SMHS Hospital, Srinagar for treatment.

Police has registered a case in this regard. (KNS)

Body recovered in Srinagar Srinagar, May 15 : Srinagar police today recovered a male body near JK Bank, Corporate Headquarters, in the jurisdiction of police station Kothi Bagh. According to a statement issued to KNS, the body was later identified as Rajinder Singh son of Fakir Singh resident of Panzar, Shopian. The deceased is working in Railway police as Head Constable and is presently posted at Katra railway station. Police has started investigation under section 174 CrPC to ascertain the cause of his death. (KNS)

Inside story Searches intensified to nab carjackers who lifted police officer’s Gypsy

Srinagar, May 15: Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday launched a massive hunt and intensified the searches on Srinagar-Jammu National Highway to nab the persons involved in the theft of a police vehicle.

Official sources told GNS that police had already sounded an alert and communicated a message to all the district and tehsil headquarters across the state of Jammu and Kashmir following the theft of a gypsy of CPO from Rajbagh area of city. The car bearing

See More On Pg 11

On Edit Page Is fourth estate above law?

The frequent incidents of confrontation between media persons particularly print media, and police are a matter of concern for both the sides.

The recent agitation by Jammu based journalists against the Traffic Authorities who asked them to wear helmets is a glaring example of the confrontation which is unfortunate and could have easily been avoided. The traffic authorities’ were within their right to ask everybody to wear helmets and the law of land does not make exceptions. The journalists should obey the

See More On Pg 09

WEATHER Light Rain would occur at a few places over the state.

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

C TEMPERATURE M MAXIMUM Y MINIMUM K

SUNSET ON(FRIDAY) SUNRISE ON (SATURDAY)

16.40C 8.8 0C 07:26PM 05:30 AM

PG 06

Counting today; nearly 8000 candidates for 543 LS seats New Delhi, May 15: Votes polled in the ninephased Lok Sabha elections will be counted today to decide who will form the next government.

Election Commission said the counting exercise to be held at 989 counting centres is likely to be completed by 5 PM and trends will be available by 11 AM. By noon, a final picture could emerge on who would be the major players in the 16th Lok Sabha.

Nearly 8000 candidates, including top guns Narendra Modi, Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi and Arvind Kejriwal were in the fray, in the largest-ever electoral exercise held in Indian history.

The exit polls have projected that BJP will emerge as the single largest party. The counting of votes will begin at 8 AM when the postal ballots will be counted.

According to EC guidelines, half-and-hour after the postal ballots are counted, the process of counting votes from the EVMs will begin.

The 'ballot unit' is switched on in the presence of senior poll officials and counting agents of candidates and the result command keyed in to get results per machine.

These were the first Lok Sabha elections when the option of 'none of the above' or NOTA was introduced on the EVMs following Supreme Court directions to ensure secrecy of voters who use this option. Before NOTA button was installed on EVMs, voters had to fill See Counting On PG 11..

Preparation for counting finalized Counting will be vediographed: CEO

Srinagar, May 15: The Election Commission has completed its arrangements to be put in place for counting at five counting stations in Kashmir division including Leh and Kargil. Sharing details of counting arrangements with KNS, Mr Umang Narulla, the Chief Electoral Officer said

Rajindera takes stock of arrangements

Srinagar, May 15: A high level meeting of different security agencies chaired by special

Lt Gen Sanjiv Chachra hands over “Colonelship” of the Rajput Regiment Udhampur, May 15: Lieutenant General Sanjiv Chachra, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Northern Command & Colonel of the Rajput Regiment handed over the Colonel of Rajput Regiment Baton to Lieutenant General Aniruddha Chakravarty, VSM, and Director General of National Cadets Corps on 15 May 2014 at an impressive ceremony held at The Rajput Regimental Centre, Fatehgarh.

According to an army statement issued to KNS, Lt Gen Sanjiv Chachra, a Second Generation Rajput Regiment Officer was commissioned into Seventeen battalion, The Rajput Regiment and took over as the 14th Colonel of the Regiment on 1st June 2012.

the entire counting process will be video-graphed for the first time in the state besides being monitored strictly by government of India appointed General Election Observers and micro observers attached to each counting table.

“I visited the three counting stations in Anantnag, Srinagar and Baramulla and See CEO On PG 11..

Security arrangements in place Adequate security arrangements made for all counting stations: IGP Kashmir

General Chachra’s sustained efforts led to a significant improvement in the infrastructure, quality of life and the standard of training at the Regimental Centre and initiation of a number of initiatives for the welfare of Veterans (Ex-servicemen) and Veer Naris of the Regiment. Due to his excellent leadership and motivation, all ranks of the Regiment always gave their best and an unprecedented number of units were awarded the coveted Chief of Army Staff unit appreciation.

Lieutenant General Aniruddha Chakravarty, VSM, a professional Soldier with sterling leadership qualities, was commissioned into Third Battalion, See Regiment On PG 11..

C M Y K

Performers lead role in Bengali film

PG 11

Director General of Police K Rajendera Kumar was held on Thursday to review the security and deployment arrangements to ensure an incident free counting of Lok Sabha ballots on five stations in Kashmir division.

See Place On PG 11..

Increase in Air tariff an anti-citizen move: Kashmir Society ‘Shaikh-ul-Alam name of Airport, Airport road imperative’

Srinagar, May 15 : while interacting with different sections of society particularly youth and students who are working outside state have again come to know that the pressure on JK sector airlines seems to have diluted and they have again started looting tourists, citizens of JK State by enhancing the ticket rates by ten times. The Airport Authority of India and Civil Aviation Ministry have also delayed reviving the name of Sheikh-ul-Alam Airport which was earlier officially given to the Srinagar Airport. Even road from exhibition to airport was named as Sheikh-ul-Alam road.

According to a statement issued to KNS, the chairman Kashmir Society today interacted with president Hotelier Association Showkat Choudary, President KHARA, President of Chamber of Commerce

Kashmir valley observes shutdown Srinagar, May 15: Kashmir valley on Thursday observed a shutdown against ‘detention and arrests’ of youth and pro-freedom leaders on the call of Hurriyat Conference.

The call for shutdown was given by Hurriyat Conference (G) chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani on 13th May. He had threatened government by saying ‘if raids, arrests and atrocities doesn’t stop till 13 May, we will issue a disciplined programme’.

“We had already issued a deadline to government till May 13 to free detainees but government has not accepted our demand of freeing youth from detentions and only few have been released and that is why Hurriyat Con-

ference is calling for valley wide shut down on 15 May Thursday against arrests, raids, violence and searches,” he had said.

Reports reaching GNS said that since early morning, shops and other commercial business establishments were shut

in Old City of Srinagar.

The schools and colleges were also shut while public transport was also off the roads. The private transport, however, was plying normally.In civil lines and uptown See Shutdown On PG 11..

Ashiq and other renowned and prominent personalities of the state.

All of them were unanimous that airline authorities should bring down air tariff from Srinagar to Jammu as 1500 and Srinagar to Delhi and back 2000 which Is normal rate. The exploitation tactics used by all airlines is totally anti-people and against the interests of JK State. It is only discouraging tourists to come Kashmir as one ticket rate is being openly sold at 20000 to 24000 thousand rupees, which is more costly then air tariff to the western countries.

The students who are studying outside the state on scholarships and businessman who have to frequently go from one place to another have been made scapegoats by all airlines. Kashmir Society had earlier See Society On PG 11..

NC demands relief to hailstorm affected Srinagar, May 15: National Conference General Secretary Sheikh Nazir Ahmad (Advocate) has expressed his concern over destruction caused to fruit crop and rice paddy due to the recent hailstorm in some parts of Kashmir Valley.

Stating that farmers, horticulturists and agriculturists form the backbone of the State, Sheikh Nazir said "Reports of widespread damage caused to crops and fruit blossoms are saddening and National Conference demands that the relevant departments of the Government take due step to alleviate the problems of the See NC On PG 11..

Stranded passengers clashed Poor patient care force patients with police in Sonamarag to move to outside states ‘Road through for vehicles from 5 to 8 in the morning’: IGP Traffic

Sonamarag, May 15: Clashes erupted between stranded passengers and police in Sonamarag on Thursday after passengers and drivers staged a protest against the traffic authorities alleging that despite clear road, they are not being allowed to cross Zojilla pass to reach to Kargil. The protestors, mostly truck drivers alleged that their trucks are loaded with perishable goods which could spoil within days.

Eyewitnesses told CNS that scores of truck drivers and passengers took to roads in Sonamarag and amid anti-government slogans pelted stones on the police. Police bursted tear-smoke shells that resulted in the injury of one protestor

who was identified as Mushtaq Ahmed Khosa from Safapora Ganderbal. Reports said that when protestors did not budge and continued to pelt stones, the policemen resorted to aerial firing that created panic in the tourist resort.

During the violent clashes at least 10 policemen were injured whom a police official identified as Head Constable Ghulam Nabi, Constables, Showkat Magray, Nazir Ahmed, Hilal Ahmed, Manzoor Ahmed, Jahangir Ahmed, Tariq Ahmed and Ashiq Ahmed.

Station House Officer Sonamarag, Irfan Ahmed told CNS that protestors resorted to heavy stone-pelting while police used tear-smoke shells to disperse them. “The protestors wanted that their See IGP On PG 11..

‘Negligence of doctors’ claimed the life of 13 year old Iqra Srinagar, May 15: Lack of ‘patient care’ and poor diagnosis is forcing countless Kashmiri patients to get themselves admitted in different hospitals of New Delhi, Chandigarh and Mumbai. Despite lack of resources, attendants are left with no option but to get their patients shifted to outside states. Attendants alleged that patients are not being treated well in one of the largest hospitals of the country SKIMS and SMHS hospital.

“The doctors in the hospitals don’t treat patients. They either advice them to consult a private doctor or discharge them from the hospital without diagnosing them properly,” father of 13 year old Iqra Jan from Palapora Noorbagh told CNS whose daughter died at SMHS hospital on Wednesday evening in the absence of the doctors.

“A few days before, my little daughter Iqra swallowed a pin when she was playing with

it. Despite the blood was oozing out from her mouth, the SMHS doctors discharged her.

We brought her to the hospital again when bleeding did not stop, but to our surprise, not a single specialist doctor was available in the hospital. My little daughter breathed her last in the hospital ward in the absence of doctors,” he said.

The uncle of Iqra said that Kashmiri hospitals are turning out to be See Poor On PG 11..

Panicky Panchs draw flak after meeting separatist leadership Defer any decision till formation of new Govt. at Centre From our special correspondent

FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS:

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

Govt orders probe after Pulwama school girl accuses teacher of abuse, harassment

PG 06

06 injured in road accidents

NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 135 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)

Sonamarag, May 15:The resignation of over two hundred Panchs and Sarpanchs and disassociation of nearly 1500 of them has exposed the security situation which the authorities claim to have proved by leaps and bounds. When the Panchayat elections were held in J&K after a gap of over two decades, the candidates mustarded a lot of courage and joined the fray to contest these elections which were opposed tooth and nail by separatists. The voters in general supported them with heavy turnout and the mission was accomplished with

a lot of fan fair. The Centre and the State Govts. did not leave any stone unturned to make the Panchayat elections a success.

Both assured full security and administrative support to the Panchs and Sarpanchs.

However, barring delegation of some powers, nothing concrete was done to improve the security situation so that Panchs and Sarpanchs could take the Panchayat Raj system ahead without any hindrance. The things turned hostile and the newly elected Panchs and Sarpanchs got panicky when on 11th Nov, 2012, soon after the formation of J&K Panchayat Conference, the Jihad Council Chairman Syed Salah-ud-din asked

them to resign en-masse or face the consequences. Since then, nine Sarpanchs have been eliminated and more than 2000, left injured according to the chairman, J&K Panchayat Conference Mr. Shafiq Mir. The tirade against the Panchs and Sarpanchs continued unabated since then and the recently held Lok Sabha Elections witnessed more killings and attacks on the Panchs and Sarpanchs. The situation reached a State of confrontation when Hurriyat -G Chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani called them as ‘Police Informers’ and asked them to resign enmasse. The Panchayat Conference retorted with the statement saying that if Panchs

and Sarpanchs had been police informers, the freedom movement would have packed since. In an attempt of clearing their position, they met Geelani and Mr. Mohammad Yasin Malik, but drew flak as far as their stand is concerned. “We are waiting for a new Govt. at the Centre and will formulate our strategy after that only as despite our relentless efforts, nothing has been done to address our security concerns”, said Shafiq Mir, chairman J&K Panchayat Conference, while taking to Zabarwan Times. To a question Mir said that the main aim to meet separatist leaders was to make them See Panicky On PG 11..

C M Y K

Srinagar, Friday 16 May 2014

11

FROM THE FRONT PAGE

Counting up form 49 'O' at the polling station which compromised their identity.

Where a paper trail audit or 'voter-verified paper audit trail' (VVPAT) has been used, the counting agent can call for a count of the paper slips in the drop box attached to the voting machine, but a final count is taken by the returning officer.

The polling in all phases was by and large peaceful barring a few incidents by Maoists and some poll-related violence.

Lok Sabha elections 2014 witnessed the highest-ever turnout with 66.38 per cent of an estimated 814 million voters exercising their franchise the highest ever in the history of general elections.

CEO we have completed all the arrangements for the counting. Not only video-graphy and strict monitoring by the observers but a copy of results delivered by each Electronic Voting Machine will be provided to each election agent present on the counting station,” Mr Narulla informed KNS. The results of every EVM will be cross checked by the voter forms available on each table, he added.

He said the returning officers have held a detailed meeting with candidates who have contested these elections juts to explain the guidelines set by Election Commission of India to be followed in letter and spirit. “The candidates have been advised to be disciplined and follow the ECI guidelines strictly,” Mr Narulla added. He said that counting of 9633 EVMs will commence in five counting stations at 8.A.M on Friday. He said the process will be monitored by 8 General Observers and each of them will be accompanied by two Micro observers in Kashmir division.

He added that stringent security arrangements have also been made for all the five counting stations. “The Counting as per ECI guidelines will be carried out in the presence of General Observers, AROs and counting agents and after each round, the copy of results would also be provided to candidates,” he informed.

Meanwhile Over 3000 employees have been deployed at three out of five counting stations in Kashmir valley.

The returning officers of the three Parliamentary constituencies Srinagar, Anantnag and Baramulla told KNS that the employees deployed for the counting include counting supervisors, counting assistants, micro observers, helpers besides runners who move Electronic Voting Machines at the counting stations.

“We have deployed over 600 employees for the counting stations at SKICC,” Farooq Ahmad Shah, deputy commissioner and returning officer for the Central Kashmir Lok Sabha constituency told KNS. Sougat Biswas, deputy commissioner Anantnag and returning officer for the south Kashmir lok Sabha constituency informed KNS: “We have 16 halls with 160 tables and we have deployed over 2000 employees for counting stations at Khanabal Degree College.”

Similarly, Farooq Ahmad Lone, the deputy commissioner Baramulla and returning officer for North Kashmir parliamentary constituency told KNS: “We have deployed over 600 employees for the counting purpose for May 16 at government degree college Boys Baramulla.” (KNS)

Place

Society interacted with prominent personalities including Moulana Amir-u-Din, Moulana Latief Ahmad Bukhari, Moulvi Mohamad Altaf, Moulvi Mufti Mudasir Ahmad Qadri, Moulvi Bashir-u-Din Khuspuri, Syed Mazhar-ul-Shah Chesti, Syed Sharief-ul-Haq, Bulbul Shah Institute Arizal and Moulana Mohamad Ramzan Nishat. They have also supported the revival of name of Sheikh-ul-Alam airport. (KNS)

Regiment The Rajput Regiment on 15 Dec 1976 and would be taking over as the 15th Colonel of The Rajput Regiment on 01 June 2014. During his 38 years of glorious and distinguished service, the General officer has held a variety of prestigious and balanced portfolio of Command, Staff and Instructional assignments. A graduate of Defence Service Staff College, Wellington, he has attended the higher command course and the prestigious National Defence College. The General Officer is presently the Director General of National Cadets Corps, Integrated Headquarters of Ministry of Defence (Army), New Delhi.

The two day function commenced on 14 May with Lieutenant General Sanjiv Chachra being given a Guard of Honour on arrival. Later General Chachra laid a wreath at Rajput Memorial to pay homage to the Martyrs who had made the supreme sacrifice of their life defending the territorial Integrity of our Great Nation in the highest traditions of Indian Army and the Rajput Regiment. A Special Sainik Sammelan was also organised where the Colonel of the Regiment designate took over the Baton from the present Colonel of the Regiment as per Army traditions. General Chachra who will hang his boots on 31 May 2014 after a distinguished 40 years in service also interacted with all Junior Commissioned Officers and Other Ranks of the Centre and was accorded a warm farewell from the ‘FORT’. (KNS)

Shutdown areas of Srinagar, the shutdown call evoked mixed response. At several places in civil lines, some shops were open while public and private transport was also plying normally. Though the shops were closed in Lal Chowk – the city centre – but vendors were doing their business as usual.

The government offices and banks recorded thin attendance but functioned normally.

Authorities had kept additional police and paramilitary forces ready to tackle stone-throwing protests.

The shutdown was also observed in other parts of valley. However, public transport was plying normally on various routes. There were no reports of protests or clashes from any part of the valley and situation remained peaceful throughout the day.

NC orcharists and farmers and pay some sort of a proportionate relief to those who have been affected".

Other National Conference leaders who have expressed their concern and demanded relief be handed out to the affected orchardists and agriculturists include Dr. Mehboob Beg, Sakina Ittoo, Dr. Bashir Ahmed Veeri, Ali Mohammad Dar and Imran Nabi Dar. (GNS)

IGP vehicles be allowed to cross Zojilla pass while the authorities have already declared road unsafe for travelling due to inclement weather,” he said. Police arrested at least 8 protestors for resorting to violence and registered a formal case against them.

At least 500 vehicles are stranded in Sonamarag from past many days. The road was thrown open for a single day, however it was immediately closed down for traffic after fresh snowfall. “If road is unsafe then how come authorities allow Army convoy’s to ply on the road,” a truck driver from Srinagar told CNS adding that they will incur huge losses if no allowed to ply on the road.

Passengers alleged that police thrashed even women passengers and smashed the windowpanes of scores of stranded vehicles, a charge refuted by police.

Inspector General of Police Traffic, Muneer Ahmed Khan told CNS that all the protestors arrived at Sonamarag after 8 am while they allow traffic from 5 to 8 am only. “The road is unsafe for travelling. We allow traffic during wee hours only. As the day progresses there is always an increase in the temperature, which creates avalanche threat. We appeal all the passengers to report at Sonamarag till 8 in the morning and they will be allowed to pass through the road,” he said. (CNS)

Poor ‘slaughter houses’ where patients are treated like cattle. “We protested inside the hospital after the death of Iqra but no one was present there, even the Registrar was absent,” Muhammad Shafi told CNS. Medical Superintendent SMHS hospital Dr Nazir Ahmed Chodhri told CNS that he does not know about the incident and has not received any complaint so far in this regard.

A Para-medical staffer of SKIMS who wished not to be named told CNS that on an average five to six attendants withdraw their patients from the hospital and refer them to the outside state for better treatment. Confirming this, Dr Irfan Ahmed from Safdarjang Hospital New Delhi told CNS over phone that All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi, Safdarjang and other hospital wards of Delhi are filled with Kashmiri patients. “I fail to understand why the hospital authorities in Kashmir shift these patients to New Delhi whey they claim that they can provide better patient care,” he said adding that he was informed by a doctor about the death of 13 year old Iqra and it is disgusting that a serious patient like her was discharged by the hospital authorities at the first instance. (CNS)

Panicky understand that people have elected them and they have the responsibility to serve them. He said that they have not got any positive signal from Geelani or Malik. He, however, questioned the logic behind asking them to resign en-masse and said that why separatists are not asking the four lac fifty thousand State govt. employees to resign and why this double speaks.

Mr. Mir further said that at present the Panchs and

Sarpanchs do not want to resign en-masse but want to continue subject to the favourable steps needed to be taken at the central and State level.

When contacted J&K Panchayat Raj Minister, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar told Zabarwan Times that the security concerns of Panchs and Sarpanchs are being properly addressed and even chief Minister himself has instructed the security agencies to take effective measures in this direction. He said that patrolling has been intensified in vulnerable areas and at some places police presence has been arranged. Sagar further said that delegation of Panchs and Sarpanchs also met him and he assured them all the possible help. He condemned the terror attacks and said that these are against humanity. He said that at some places the attacks are other than militancy related also. Sagar one of the dashing minister said that people have elected them so they should respect the voters and continue their mission relentlessly.

The question arises as to why Sarpanchs and Panchs are being targeted and how will their en-mass resignation help the cause of freedom movement. Though the separatist camp is averse to all kinds of elections but despite that the people in State are coming out to vote and some people allege that even some separatist leaders are also indirectly supporting some parties and candidates. Some people also suggest that decentralisation of powers has annoyed some law makers and district level officers whose powers have been diluted by the emergence of Panchayat Raj System.

The enthusiastic Panchs and Sarpanchs even go beyond their jurisdiction which is considered as direct interference in the administration. Some cases of high handedness misappropriation and corruption have also surfaced which have also made these people vulnerable to attacks. Whatever the issues, in the present situation, the Panchs and Sarpanchs are facing tuff time and if believed, ninety percent of them went into hiding during the recently held Lok Sabha elections.

The State Govt. has also miserably failed in its efforts to inculcate a sense of security in them and addressing their concerns. The central Govt. always passes on the buck by saying that security matters are State subject, hence, the responsibility of the State Govt.

The 4145 Sarpanchs and 33,000 Panchs who contested the elections on non-party basis face uncertainty as the separatists are up in arms against them and the State Govt. has miserably failed in protecting them.

It is a reality that every Panch and Sarpanch cannot be provided the individual security cover, however, effective steps can be taken to improve the overall security situation, so that these people do not feel isolated, condemned, forgotten and insecure. If the situation continues, the day will not be far off when these Panchs and Sarpanchs will resign en-masse and create a situation which will be very difficult to tackle with.

Talking to Zabarwan Times, a Sarpanch from South Kashmir on the condition of anonymity said that he has not slept in his house for the last three months as the militants have threatened him and the sword of death is hovering over his head. Another Sarpanch told Zabarwan Times that the local administrative machinery and political leaders are also playing their role in their harassment. If such are the conditions, how can the democratically elected representatives survive and work for the people, is a hundred million dollar question.

IGP

Searches intensified to nab carjackers who lifted police officer’s Gypsy

Srinagar, May 15: (GNS) Jammu and Kashmir Police on Thursday launched a massive hunt and intensified the searches on Srinagar-Jammu National Highway to nab the persons involved in the theft of a police vehicle.

Official sources told GNS that police had already sounded an alert and communicated a message to all the district and tehsil headquarters across the state of Jammu and Kashmir following the theft of a gypsy of CPO from Rajbagh area of city. The car bearing registration number JK02P-6904 was parked near the hotel Wig Warm by the driver.

“From today morning police had established more nakas in every entry and exit points of all the district headquarters particularly near Lower Munda- which connects Jammu-Srinagar National Highway,” sources said.

While confirming the theft of a Gypsy belonging to CID department, SSP Srinagar, Amit Kumar said: We have registered a case in this regard and we have launched searches to nab the car lifters.

Meanwhile, a car which was stolen from HMT Srinagar has been found near Ali Kadal, Srinagar.

A police official told GNS that Bilal Ahmad Reshi resident of HMT, Srinagar reported in Police Post Nehru Park, Srinagar that his Santro Car bearing registration number JK02T/6616 was stolen from Zabarwan Park Srinagar. Police flashed a message to all police stations regarding the car. Police Station M.R Gunj has found the car which was abandoned near Ali Kadal. (GNS)

14 ‘stone-throwers’ released in Sopore

’38 youth counseled after surrender’

Srinagar, May 15: As Kashmir valley observed shutdown against arrests and detentions of youth, police in Sopore area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla district have released 14 alleged stone-throwers, officials said.

The call for shutdown was given by Hurriyat Conference (G) chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani on 13th May and had threatened government with agitation if arrested youth aren’t released.

The volatile Sopore town witnessed intense stone-hurling clashes and protests before and after polling for Baramulla parliamentary constituency resulting in injuries to scores of youth and government forces men.

In a function held, the parents and detained youth gave ‘written assurance’ to police, and ‘made it clear’ that they will ‘not pelt stones on forces in the future’, officials said.

“Initially we had arrested 18 youth and charged them while 14 have been released.

They were arrested from 6th May and also after post-poll violence. The 18 youth,

whom we had arrested, gave us names of another 38 youth and they were also charged,” a police official, insisting not to be named, told GNS. He said among arrested were minors and they were also charged. “We didn’t arrest 38 youth but they surrendered before us today morning,” he said. The official said these ‘stone-throwers’ have been ‘counseled’ as they were ‘first time offenders’. “They gave us written assurance and we released them and also exempted them from charges,” he added.

“We have counseled these boys and told them not to destroy their careers. We have requested their parents to keep an eye on their children and make them understand,” Superintendent of Police Sopore, Abdul Qayoom, who was present on the occasion, told media persons. “We will see to what extent our efforts will bear fruits in future but I am hopeful,” he added.

The parents of released boys said that they will keep an eye on their wards and would ‘try their best’ to stop them from pelting stones.

Senior police officials, village heads and prominent citizens were also present on the occasion.

Body of a woman with ‘torture marks’ recovered in Kulgam Srinagar, May 15: Police on Thursday recovered a female body under mysterious circumstances from Qazigund area in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district.

Some locals informed the police about the body lying near the Al-Staff area in Mir Bazar, Qazigund, a police team was immediately rushed to the spot where a female body has been recovered having visible torture marks on her body, official sources said.

A police spokesman in a statement issued to GNS while confirming the recovering of a female body having serious burn marks and was in semi decomposed state. “The body was later identified as Sumaira Jan wife of Mehboob Ahmad Mir resident of Babdar, Fathapora, Anantnag”.

The lady was reported to

be missing since 8th May from Sher Bagh hospital. A missing report already stands registered in police post Sher Bagh, Anantnag, the official said.

He said a team of FSL experts was been deputed to the spot for investigation. The body has been sent for Post Mortem.

“A case under section 174 CrPc has been registered in this regard and further investigations taken up”, he said.Meanwhile, the family and the relatives of the Sumera Jan staged protest and demanded stern action against the culprits.

Scores of angry youth pelted stones at the FSL vehicle at the spot at Mir Bazar breaking few window panes of the vehicle.

However, police chased them away and carried on with their investigations. (GNS)

Boys hangs self to death after brawl with mother Kangan, May 15: A 7th class student from Kalumohalla Gund Kangan in Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district hanged himself to death after a squabble with his mother on Thursday afternoon.

Police sources told CNS that Jehangir Ahmed Raina son of Ghulam Muhammad, a 7th class stu-

dent had a brawl with his mother at their house. The boy in a fit of rage closed his room and hanged self.

He was shifted to Primary Health Centre Gund Kangan where doctors declared him brought dead.

Police has registered a case in this regard and investigation has been started. (CNS)

Govt orders probe after Pulwama school girl accuses teacher of abuse, harassment

Srinagar, May 15: The Jammu and Kashmir government Thursday ordered a probe after parents of a girl student accused her school teacher of abusing her.

Parents of a calls 8th student in Shadimarg village of Pulwama had complained to the Chief Education Officer that their daughter was abused and harassed by a teacher at High School in Wasimarg.

Chief Education Officer, Farooq Ahmad while talking to GNS said that we have received a written complaint against one of our teacher who is posted at the school. “The complaint reads that the school teacher Shakeel Ahmad is abusing and harassing a class 8th student during school hours”.

Acting on the complaint we have constituted a team to enquire the allegations against the teacher, he said, The CEO said that the teacher has also been attached with the Zonal Education Office Shadimarg pending probe.

“Stern action will be taken if the allegation proved true against the teacher,” he added.

Owner , Printer & Publisher: Suhail Malik Editor -in-Chief: Shahana Malik RNI NO. JKBII/2011/39764, Email: zabarwantimes@gmail.com Publised at Govt.

Quarters , M-13 Magarmal Bagh Srinagar-190001 J&K, Printed at:- Sangarmal Offset Press Humhama Sheikhpora Tele/Fax: 2478370 Cell No. 09999964750, 9796 787844

70

According to IGP Kashmir A G Mir, adequate arrangements have been made to ensure ‘no security lapses’ on these five counting stations including Leh and Kargil on May 16. “We have taken adequate security measures to facilitate a hassle free counting in all the five stations across the Kashmir division,” Mr Mir told KNS. Official sources revealed to KNS that the counting event in all the five stations will be card based entry system. “Only those people will be allowed to centre into the counting premises who have a valid entry card issued by the election commission,” a well placed officer told KNS. An officer in the state electoral office told KNS, said that preparations for May 16 Lok Sabha election counting which will be held at five counting stations including Leh and Kargil. Each counting station will have video surveillance to watch over. The security measures for counting halls and strong rooms--which contain the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), have been planned as per the ECI guidelines.

Sources in police maintained that CCTV cameras have already been installed for close surveillance of the activities in the counting venue in Anantnag, Srinagar and Baramulla the three out of five counting stations. In order to review all these arrangements, the Special Director General of Police, K. Rajendra Kumar chaired a meeting that was attended by senior police and para-military officers. The meeting was also attended senior officers of the traffic department and intelligence agencies. Rajendra impressed upon the participants in the meeting to implement the action plan strictly for the security of counting staff and the stations. He stressed for better coordination among the forces to ensure free and fair counting.

During the meeting, special DGP sought reports from range DIGPs and para-military officers present in the meeting about security scenario in their respective areas. He stressed for joint efforts to ensure peace and security at all counting stations to thwart sinister designs of elements inimical to peace.

Earlier, the IGP Kashmir Zone, A. G. Mir apprised the meeting about the steps taken for deployment of personnel in different counting stations. The counting of votes for central Kashmir parliamentary constituency will take place at 8 AM in SKICC. According to DC Srinagar Farooq Ahmad Shah, eight halls with 64 tables for 15 assembly segments of the central Kashmir constituency have been created for the counting. “We have divided counting for these 15 segments into two sessions. In first session of the counting we will count votes of 8 segments and in second session the counting will be for the other 7 segments,” he told KNS. Similarly, in South Kashmir the counting will be carried at Government Degree College Boys Khanabal Anantnag at 8 AM. “We have created 16 halls for 16 assembly segments of the South Kashmir constituency,” Saugat Biswas, deputy commissioner and returning officer for Anantnag Lok Sabha constituency told KNS. In Baramulla the counting be held at Government Boys Degree College at 8 AM. “We have created 15 counting halls for 15 assembly segments of the Baramulla Lok Sabha constituency and adequate arrangements have been made for the counting,” Farooq Ahmad Lone, deputy commissioner Baramulla who is also the returning officer for the North Kashmir parliamentary constituency told KNS. (KNS)

Zabarwan Times

NEWS

Daily ZABARWAN TIMES

SRINAGAR |FRIDAY, MAY | 16 | 2014

Verma for developing gene bank for Apple varieties Urges for establishing Vermicompost units SRINAGAR, MAY 15: Secretary, Floriculture and Horticulture, Mr. Sanjeev Verma today inspected Government Fruit Plant Nursery Zakura, spread over an area of 8.6 hectares where 4 High Tech Green houses have already been established.

Mr. Verma also inspected 2500 grafted Walnut plants and 1000 grape cuttings being grown in the green houses and instructed to establish more high tech green houses so that the growing demand of farmers for quality Walnut plants is fulfilled. During inspection of latest high density mother plants grown in the Nursery, the concerned officers were asked to utilize the rest of the area of Nursery for developing a gene bank by preserving traditionalLone vari- News Agency Kangan eties like Ambri.

Gulzar Mr. Verma also vis- News Agency Soura Tariq News Agency Hawal ited orchard area of Gulab Bagh and interactedMuzaffar with Ali News Agency Alamgari Bazar the orchardists FarmAbdullah HanNews Agency Lal Chowk dling Unit constructed with Gupkari News Agency Lal Chowk the financial assistance

of Rs.1.5 lakhs provided under RKVY Scheme while interacting with the other orchardist on the spot advised them to establish Vermi Compost units in the orchards and also adopt organic farming system.

Earlier, Mr. Verma visited SKUAST Kashmir where Director Research and other Scientists of SKUAST accompanied him to the research field of the university where he was shown the high density plantation of apple, Vermicompost units and other research activities. The Secretary instructed Joint Director Horticulture to conduct the training programmes of officers of Department as well as farmers at SKUAST so that they get acquainted with the latest scientific activities and techniques adopted in the field to increase the productivity as well as quality of the fruits.

Zabarwan Times is available at

Khan News Agency Regal Chowk Sheikh News Agency Hyderpora Lone News Agency Tangmarg Bhat News Agency Magam Dar News Agency Beerwah Reshi News Agency Safapora Basharat News Agency Bandipora Altaf News Agency Pulwama JAMMU, MAY 15-The Educational Technology Cell of the Jeelani Newsorganized Agency Divisional BaramullaLevel State Institute of Education Jammu Shah News Agency Kupwara One Day Painting Competition at SIE Jammu on 15th of May 2014. The programmeYounis was inaugurated by worthy News Agency LangateDirector School Education Jammu, Tushar Kanti Sharma.

Reshi News Agency Islamabad Mr. Sharma emphasized the need and importance of holdTralimportance ing such competition Turray as theseNews are ofAgency paramount News Agency Kulgam for the development ofRahi the personality of the child. Such type of competitions provide platform to theByepass students for exRaha News Agency

Educational technology cell of SIE Jammu organizes divisional level painting competition

pressing their talent potential freely so that their innate abilities are channelized in a proper manner.

Earlier on, the Joint Director Trainings / Principal, SIE Jammu Sh H.R.Pakhroo welcome the Director School Education Jammu and emphasized the need of holding such programmes infuture for the betterment of the student community.

The programme was co-ordinated by Sh Rajinder Kumar R.O., Mtr. Parveen Akhter, Master I/C E.T.Cell and Mr Akash Khajuria, Teacher acted as Associate Co-ordinator.

Tarun Sharma, HSS (B) Kishtwar bagged the first prize, while Raksha Devi of GHS Udhampur got the 2nd Prize and the third prize went to Rajni Devi of GHS Lagote other participants were awarded the certificates of participation.

Sh.Bushan Kesar, Sh Subash Anand and Mr Mohd Akram Khan acted as the Judges for the event/competition.

Khan News Agency Ganderbal Zahid Book Depot Chadoora Bashir News Agency Nowhatta Budshah News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar News Agency Lal Chowk Raina News Agency Gund Kangan Rashid News Agency Dalgate Hilal News Agency Budgam Bhat News Agency Chadoora Zargar News Agency Kunzar Bashir News Agency Sumbal Saleem News Agency Pattan Reyaz News Agency Pampore Javaid News Agency Qazigund SRINAGAR, MAY 15: The Election who die or sustain injuries while on G.M NewsofAgency Sopore Commission India (ECI) has re- election duty will be applicable to Sultan News Agency Handwara laxed restrictions with regard to the all personnel deployed in all types Sheikh News Agencyfor Islamabad Model Code of Conduct the State of election related duties, all secuof Three JammuWay andNews Kashmir thatTral were rity personnel including (CAPFS, Agency imposed with the announcement SAPS, State Police, Home Guards, Badru News Agency Bijbehara of Parliament Elections with effect etc), any private persons like drivers, Malik News Agency Arwani from March 3, 2014. cleaners, etc. hired for deployment Shaheen News Agency Kargil As per a communication No. for election duty. The applicable

ECI relaxes MCC restrictions, amplifies guidelines for ex-gratia payment to poll staff

437/J&K-HP/2014-NS-I/479 of May 9th instant from Election Commission of India and circulated by the General Administration Department, J&K Government vide Circular No. 23-GAD of 2014 dated May 13th, it has been observed that in view of completion of polling process in the State, all normal administrative work/development activities in the State of Jammu and Kashmir can be taken up.

The ECI has further stated that the payment of ex-gratia compensation to family of polling personnel

period of election duty would start from the date of the announcement of the elections.

As per a separate communication of ECI and GAD, the payment of ex-gratia compensation prescribed by the Commission vide its letter date March 25, 2014 will also be applicable to the CAPs/SAPs and other security forces personnel deployed for the election duty and this will be in addition to the compensation already being paid by the MHA under extant guidelines issued by the DOP & MHA and State Governments.

The expenditure on account of payment of ex-gratia compensation to the polling personnel is wholly borne by the Government of India during the election of Lok Sabha and by the state Government during elections to the Legislative Assemblies and shared on a 50:50 basis during simultaneous elections to the Lok Sabha and Legislative Assembly by the Government of India and concerned State Governments.

The share of the Government of India is paid by the Ministry of Law, Justice and Company Affairs (Legislative Department), the communication reads.

The communication further clarifies that in case of Lok Sabha elections, the payment of ex-gratia compensation shall be made by the State Government initially and the claims shall be made to the Government of India later on.

Rs. 21 Cr spent on 3011 works under MGNREGA in Ramban RAMBAN, MAY 15-In a high level meeting today District Development Commissioner, Ramban, M H Malik reviewed the progress of works under Rural Development and achievement of targets of 2013-14.

The meeting was attended by ADDC, CPO, ACD, Xen REW and BDOs of all the Blocks of district Ramban.

During the sector wise review ACD Ramban Dr. Arvind Kirwani revealed that in MGNREGA, 3011 no. of works have been completed benefiting 26463 families by spending an amount of Rs. 2084.06 Lacs against the availability of Rs. 2093.76 Lacs during 2013-14 financial year. In addition to this a liability of Rs. 10.95 Crores has been projected to the government of India for release. As many as 50753 Job

Cards were provided to the unskilled job seekers under this employment generating scheme in the district during the financial year under review. DDC asked the ACD to complete the verification of all the Job Card and their bank accounts by the end of May 2014.

The no. of person days generated in the district was 1236407 which includes 301923 person days for women of this hilly district. ACD apprised the meeting that by this financial year the department is shifting to electronic transfer of funds to the beneficiaries directly at the district and block levels so that the delay in payment of wages is brought to the minimum possible.

Under IAY it was given out that so far an amount of Rs. 126.17 Lacs has been utilized against the availability of Rs. 127.26 lacs dur-

ing the Fiscal year 2013-14. During this period 19 SOS IAY units were completed and the work on 359 units is still going on. DDC was apprised that the department will now be using the GPS facility for the identification and tracking of IAY houses being constructed under the IAY scheme.

During the sector wise review ACD Ramban Dr. Arvind Kirwani revealed that in MGNREGA, 3011 no. of works have been completed benefiting 26463 families by spending an amount of Rs. 2084.06 Lacs against the availability of Rs. 2093.76 Lacs during 2013-14 financial year. In addition to this a liability of Rs. 10.95 Crores has been projected to the government of India for release.

As many as 50753 Job Cards were provided to the unskilled job seekers under this employment

Traffic movement on Sonamarg-Leh highway allowed under strict observation: Div Com SRINAGAR, MAY 15: The Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Mr. Shailendra Kumar today said that the Divisional Administration allowed one way regulated movement of light motor vehicles only on the Sonamarg-Leh highway on 11th May under strict observation as there is still huge accumulation of snow on the sides of the road.

Mr. Kumar said that the BRO/Army has been conducting regular trial recce of the road to ascertain its traffic worthiness, however, due to continuous inclement weather, they have conveyed that the road is not yet fully safe for traffic due to constant danger of slides and avalanches.

The Divisional Commissioner said although the road has been opened but snow slides are occurring at certain stretches of the road which are being cleared by the BRO.Mr. Kumar said that Divisional Administration is according

utmost priority to the safety of life of the passengers and only after receiving positive indications/ clearance regarding traffic worthiness of the road from the concerned is traffic allowed to ply. He further said that once the situation with regards to weather becomes favourable and road condition improves heavy vehicles will also be allowed to ply along with LMVs, adding that people should cooperate with the Divisional Administration in this regard. Subject to fair weather, the Divisional Commissioner said that as of now only LMVs are allowed from Sonamarg to Drass and Drass to Sonamarg on alternate days besides the movement is restricted from 5 a.m. to 7 a.m through check posts at Drass and Sonamarg. He said traffic will Ply towards Drass from Sonamarg on Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday and towards Sonamarg from Drass on Monday, Wednesday and Friday.

generating scheme in the district during the financial year under review. DDC asked the ACD to complete the verification of all the Job Card and their bank accounts by the end of May 2014.

The no. of person days generated in the district was 1236407 which includes 301923 person days for women of this hilly district. ACD apprised the meeting that by this financial year the department is shifting to electronic transfer of funds to the beneficiaries directly at the district and block levels so that the delay in payment of wages is brought to the minimum possible.

While reviewing the progress on the works of model villages Paristan and Deedha, DDC instructed the concerned officers to first of all study and analyse the needs of the villages iden-

tified in consultation with the public representatives and then frame the works to be taken up as per the needs of the villagers so that the precious money is utilised judiciously.

Under BRGF an amount of Rs. 369.49 Lacs has so far been utilised for creation of valuable assets on various works carried out in convergence with other departments in the district.

DDC directed the DPO and all concerned officers that the work progress on the Panchayat Ghars should be expedited in a time framed manner and should be complete in all respects by the end of July 2014.

Under Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan(NBA), Rs 998.60 Lacs were spent over the IHHLs for the purpose of sanitation in the rural villages of the district.

VC, JU calls on Governor SRINAGAR, MAY 15: Prof. M.P.S. Ishar, Vice Chancellor, Jammu University, called on Governor, Mr. N.N. Vohra, Chancellor of the University, here at Raj Bhavan today.

Prof. Ishar briefed the Governor about the status of the ongoing teaching and research programmes in the University and about various administrative issues relating to the University. He also apprised the Governor about the progress achieved so far in the implementation of the Choice Based Credit System at the Post Graduate level and other initiatives taken by the University for progressively raising the standards of teaching and research.

RO Baramulla convenes meeting of contesting candidates, their agents

BARAMULLA, MAY 15- The Returning Officer for Baramulla Parliamentary Constituency, Dr. Farooq Ahmed Lone today convened a meeting of all the contesting candidates and their election and counting agents here today.

The agents were briefed about the latest directives from the Election Commission of India with regard to maintenance of discipline during counting of votes on May 16.

ADDC Baramulla, Mr. Mukhtar-ul-Aziz and SP Baramulla, Mr. Suhail also briefed the meeting about the necessary arrangements put in place during the counting.

21 employees placed under suspension in Bandipora

BANDIPORA, MAY 15- The Additional Deputy Commissioner, Bandipora, Mr. N. A. Baba on the instructions of Deputy Commissioner, Bandipora, Dr. Shah Faisal placed 21 employees under suspension for remaining absent from the duty.

These employees belong to the departments of Agriculture, Horticulture, Sericulture, Education, Social Welfare, besides Hydraulic Division and Fund Office etc.

HOROSCOPE Aries

March 21-April 19

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

Taurus April 20-May 20

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

Gemini May 21-June 21

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

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

Cancer June 22-July 22

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

Leo

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

Virgo

August 23-September 22

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

Libra

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

Scorpio

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

Sagittarius November 22-December 21

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

Capricorn December 22-January 19

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

Aquarius January 20-February 18

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

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

Pisces

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

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

Accept the good energy that comes your way.

EDITORIAL EDITORIAL OPINION EDITORIAL// OPINION Let legislators be Is fourth estate Protecting asabove parliamentarlaw?

Wildlife he frequent incidents ians as they arebeof confrontation imalayan range is not only expected to&persons be media mosttween fascinating spec-

H T T

particularly print tacular but also a natural he unfortunate happenings media, police are wonder in of the the earthand which is the Legislative Assembly a matter of concern for both richest inare habitat animal life. One inThe noofway conducive for the sides. recent agitation third of the mammal species are livthe constitutional bodies like legisby Jammu based journalists ing in the lap of Himalayan mounlatures which are symbolic of digagainst the Traffic Authoritain range.

Jammu & Kashmir has nity, who Parliamentarian behaviour, ties asked them to wear variety of geographical regions, statesmanship and political mahelmets is a glaring example climate and vegetation which are turity ofconfrontation the society as which a whole. of the is a The delight to such the wildlife enthusiasts dent incidents cause to unfortunate and could have and tourists. The richness ofare Himademocratic institutions fatal easily been avoided.

The traflayan range is a boon for the state and authorities’ uncalled for. India is the largfic were within economy.

But unfortunately with est democracy the world which their right toof ask everybody the population explosion, rampant symbolizes the deepand rooted to wear helmets thephilaw poaching, shrinking forests due losophy supermacy of constituof land of does not make exceptotions. construction, wildlife is depletThe journalists should tion and democratic foundations ing very fast.

Out of 15 prominent obey laws solution as they to areevery also whichthe provide wild life species unluckily owing ordinary citizens like others problem through negotiations and toand human interference five species are not above law.

They by sitting across the table. The leghave been declared enmade a mountain out mole islatures which enactcritically lawsoftoaguide dangered including Hangul, which is unbecoming of the the whole nation and theMusk states Deer, Markhor, Snow Leopard and journalistic behaviour.

If we should really look as the bodies of Brown Bear.

The forest area, the claim to teach others, criticise decency and patience and not like natural habitat wildoranimals, is them for notof obeying the laws, the state Assemblies Parliament being encroached human habi-Ifof point outforthe weaknesses is looking theby past few days. tation which includes construction the society and bodies advocate mothe constitutional are not ofrality roads, buildings, industrial housand discipline, then we allowed to function, how can they es, tunnels, railway tracks & people sense should also act upon fulfill theourselves aspirations of the it.

A scribe cannot claim to be less felling of trees.

All these whom they represent andfactors whose something superior pose potential threat toand wild life eyesaare always fixed on themjustifor fy his weaknesses.

The arguand a number of wild life species are the solution of their problems. The ments on security checks, the vanishing with every legislators are electedpassing by the day. peodemand of special Besides this the use ofand pesticides for ple with a purpose iftreatment that purin Govt. and agriculture and horticulture purpose is notoffices served thendemand what is theof concession in each and every poses contaminated water adds to fun of wasting cores ofcost rupees on thing, in fact, has heavithis tragedy every day.

The contamholdingthe the honour elections.ofThe Govt. ly onwater this in noinated increases toxicity should also behave as responsible bleanimals profession.

Whyinshould a the and results ailment as it should be.

It should allow the scribecauses objectuntimely to security check which death of opposition to pose the problems and frisking at sensitive places birds, fish and animals. shrink-is of the people so that The a solution when it is mandatory for everying of forest cover by ruthless cutcarved out.

If the Govt. tries to si-to one and why should he object ting of trees, timber smuggling and lence thetraffic opposition then Ifwhat is routine checks. a of cop other factors are the main cause the fun of sitting inand these august stops aanimals journalist demands death of as they do not get houses.

The real of democracy his identity, hetest should politely sufficient food and die carof comesitwhen the therefore opposition prove and allow the cop toraisstarvation. es the public issuesWhat and the ry on his duties. hasGovt. been Though World Wildlife Fund patiently listens and tries to solve witnessed is that the scribes is get making all out efforts to save the them.

The present session is perirritated on these issues and ulendangered by into including haps the last but certainly thea last timately itspecies develops full them into Red Data Book, the Budget session, hence itthe isstate imfledged feud between two. government also take care ofup perative for both opposition and Nobody inmust a democratic set the natural habitat of thesebenefit endanGovt. to take maximum of can claim exemptions and spegered species.

The duty of the conthe time and utilize the wel-of cial treatment as itafor matter cerned department does not endLok byto fare of the people.should Now aslearn the right.

He/she organizing some functions during Sabha Elections arecommand nearing, the respect others to the wildlife week starting from 2nd same from them.will It has been obcode of conduct be in force, October but constant and effective served thatdevelopmental some people aspect under hence the measures should be made by wildthe garb of scribe visit has to be kept in mind. BothGovt. oplife protection staff.

They should offices and extract favours position and Govt. has to go to bein given advanced training in prodifferent people who willways. judge Similarly them on they blackmail some respecttecting the wildlife.

Apart from this performance and what they are able getlegislature. materialistic awareness, must be initidoingpeople in campaigns the to state It is gains.

Some of them have seen ated to create consciousness among the duty of the people’s represenrecently caught and the people the fallhanded of theof tatives to regarding solve them with best over toofpolice. is the theThough duty of number wildlifeIt species. their capabilities and unfortuthe fraternity as a whole tobut see some haveinbeen nate clubs incidents whichset twoupmemthat profession is not their is negligible in view bersnumber of the Assembly haddefamed to suffer and those elements who are ofphysically the magnitude thebeproblem. shouldofnot allowed bent create aand badwood name Moreover thetopoachers to beupon repeated.

The language and have to be identified and sinsmugglers should gestures used is be theseverely past andpunalso gled out.

Every big ished so that a strongjournalist, message goes on many occasions by some memor should realise that across thatnot nothing be toleratberssmall, do suit thewill parliamentaris asand good citizen of asforests others edhe against the destruction ianism, statesmanship. and is in no way above law. and forest life.

Daily Daily Daily

Zabarwan ZabarwanTimes Times Zabarwan Times

Srinagar, February 2014 Srinagar,Thursday Friday 1627 May 2014 2014 Srinagar, Thursday 13 February

The Largest Tribal Religious Congregation at Sammakka Sarakka Jathara

S

ammakka Sarakka Jathara or Medaram Jathara is the largest tribal religious congregation in the country. The biannual Jathara takes place at Medaram village of Tadvai Mandal in Warangal district, in Telangana region of Andhra Pradesh. Approximately one crore devotees are expected to take part this time at the Jathara to be held between February 12 to 15, 2014.

A little festival of tribal’s in a small village has become a major pilgrimage in the last six years. This festival is held to get the blessings of goddesses Sammakka and Sarakka. It's believed that in those 3 to 4 days of the Jathara, goddesses’ real presence is felt. With the Jathara nearing, arrangements at Medaram village have also been picking up speed. It might be noted that about 80 lakh pilgrims had taken part in the Jathara last time.

The Sammakka Jathara was declared as a state festival by Andhra Pradesh government in 1998. Devotees in large number from neighbouring districts and different states including Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Odessa, Maharastra, Karnataka and Jharkand participate at the Jathara. People offer bangaram (gold) in the form of jaggery of a quantity equal to their weight to the goddesses and take holy bath in Jampanna Vagu (stream). It is a festival with no Vedic or Brahmanic influence.

Jampanna Vagu is a tributary to River Godavari.

According to the history, Jampanna is the tribal warrior and the son of Tribal Goddess Sammakka. The Jampanna vagu took his name as he died in a battle fighting against Kakatiyan Army in that stream.

The Jampanna vagu is still red in colour believed to be with the blood of Jampanna (Scientifically the red colour of the water is attributed to the soil composition). Devotees believe that taking a holy dip in the red water of Jampanna Vagu reminds of the sacrifice of their gods who save them and also induces courage into their souls.

The actual festival begins in the month of Magha, on Sudha Pournami (full moon day) evening when Sarakka (in the form of vermilion) would be traditionally brought from Kanneboyinapalle, a neibhouring village in the forest, and placed on a gadde, an earthen platform raised under a tree. By next sunset, the main goddess Sammakka (in the form of vermilion) will be brought from Chilukalagutta. There are two gaddes (platforms) separately one for goddess "Sammakka" and other for goddess "Sarakka". They are represented by bamboo sticks smeared with turmeric and vermilion (Pasupu and Kunkuma). Since time immemorial, there is a huge tree standing on Sammakka gadde.

Hundreds of people who are often believed to be possessed by the goddess come here dancing ecstatically throughout their journey. People believe that Goddesses Sammakka, Saralamma fulfill their desires with their divine and miraculous powers.

Couples visit to pray to the goddess to bless them with children. Many pilgrim pay their promises made to goddess during the Jathara, by offering jaggery, calf's, coconuts and donations in cash etc. Pilgrims take bathe in Jampanna stream to get purified and absolve from sins.

When the priests bring out the ochre box and other relics from a hidden forest location, there is great tumult with frenzied beating of drums, blowing of trumpets and full throated yells. It is said that during the festival a huge tiger prowls around peacefully.

According to a tribal story, in the 13th century some tribal leaders who went for hunting found a new born girl (Sammakka) emitting enormous light and playing amidst tigers. She was taken to their habitation. The head of the tribe adopted her and later she became the saviour of the tribals of that region. She was married to Pagididda Raju, a feudatory tribal chief of Kakatiyas, who ruled Warangal area. She was blessed with 2 daughters and one son namely Sarak-

ka, Nagulamma and Jampanna respectively.

After sometime, there was a severe drought that lasted for years and as a result the mighty Godavari River dried up. Pagididda Raju didn't pay tribute to King Pratapa Rudra. In turn king Pratapa rudra sent his army to subdue the tribals and collect the tribute. Then a War was fought between tribal chief Pagididda Raju and Kakatiya army on the banks of "Sampenga Vagu" (Jampanna Vagu). The Koya army fought valiantly but could not withstand the well equipped Kakatiya army.

Though fought valiantly Pagididda Raju, his daughters Sarakka, Nagulamma, son in law Govinda Raju lost (husband of Sarakka) lives in the battle. Later Jampanna also dies in Sampenga Vagu (after renamed as Jampanna Vagu in the memory of his heroic fight against well trained Kakatiya army).

Upon hearing this news Sammakka also enters war and fights and causes lot of damage to Kakatiya army. Surprised by her Bravery and Valour the Kakatiya Prime Minister visited war ravaged Koya kingdom with proposal of peace and offered Sammakka a place in the emperor’s harem as the chief queen. Sammakka turned down the offer and resolved to continue the fight to avenge the dead. The battle continued and Sammakka was seriously wounded.

Sammakka told her people that as long as they remembered her, she would protect them. Then, she cursed the Kaktiya dynasty to perish and with that wounded body proceeded towards Chilakala gutta and disappeared in the forest.

The grieving Koyas searched for their queen all they found were a red ochre box (a container of vermilion), her bangles and the pug marks of a huge full grown tigress, exactly the same place where she was found as an infant by the koyas. The Kakatiya dynasty came to an end very soon. Since then the Koyas, Waddaras and other Indian tribes and castes have been holding festivals in memory of Sammakka and Sarakka regularly.

Latest Technique in Mineral Exploration Technology Infusion envisaged during XII Five Year Plan Period

G

SI has made phenomenonal contributions in the mineral sector and is carrying out systematic investigation for mineral resource assessment of the country in geologically potential areas through modern and sophisticated exploration methods involving modern geological mapping techniques, geomorphological and lineament mapping through study of satellite imageries, aero and ground geophysical studies and geochemical mapping. As part of this GSI has initiated extensive programme of modernization on the advice of the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Industries, and as per guidelines laid down by an Expert Panel on Modernization of GSI. The modernization programme is aimed to improve the regional exploration for assessment of natural resources by infusion of latest state of art technology.

The technology infusion envisaged during the 12th Five Year Plan period is” Ø Strengthening of the state of the art equipment in chemical laboratories like ICP-MS, ICP-AES to match world standard in precision and also facilitate logical conclusion of mineral exploration within scheduled time. Ø Modernization and augmentation of equipment for ground geophysical survey like multi-channel gamma ray spectrometry, multi frequency EM system etc. Ø High-end petrological instrument for diamond, strategic and PGE exploration. Ø State of the art drilling machine (reverse circulation, hydraulic etc.).

In order to improve the quality of exploration for mineral resources of the country, following equipment / instruments were procured or in the process of procurement as per the plan: § Airborne surveys including airborne magnetic, electromagnetic and gamma-ray surveys have proved quite useful in identifying first order target areas

worldwide and may be used as direct tool in exploration.

The airborne survey is strengthened by procurement of heliborne multi-sensor airborne survey system comprising on board sensors like magnetic, gravity, time domain electromagnetic (TDEM) and gamma ray spectrometry and hyper spectrometry. § Application of geochemistry to mineral exploration, adopting conventional as well as advanced geochemical techniques, in soil surveys, stream-sediment surveys, vapour surveys and bedrock surveys has proved useful in detection of dispersion haloes of hidden ore bodies. To strengthen the geochemical exploration GSI has upgraded its regional laboratories by procurement of sophisticated instruments like ICPMS, EPMA etc. for low detection analytical determinations particularly for elements like gold, PGE, rare earth etc. § Application of time-tested geophysical techniques in locating concealed deposits is considered as one of the most effective exploration tools. Ground geophysical survey is being strengthened by procuring new sophisticated instruments like Multi electrode resistivity-IP unit, multi frequency EM profiling unit etc. § GSI has procured magneto telluric (MT) instrument to strengthen its geophysical survey over Indian craton to image the sub continental lithospheric mantle (SCLM). The outcome of the survey will enhance the scientific knowledge of the deeper parts of the earth and will help to model the process of craton formation more accurately which in turn will help in targeting concealed ore bodies/kimberlite bodies (KCR) § GSI carries out offshore surveys and mineral resource evaluation in the EEZ and TW. To strengthen the marine survey GSI is procuring one deep Ocean Going Research Vessel from M/s Hyundai Heavy Industries, South Korea. This will help in assessing the mineral/natural resources present in EEZ of our country.

The details of technological upgradation with adequate instrumental back up is as follows: o In the field of Thematic Geological Mapping (TGM), the technology infusion that has been envisaged includes: Field Laptop, or Table PC, Mapping GPS unit, GSI Portal, mobile mapping vans with portable generator. o In view of completion of systematic geological mapping over the country, an Integrated Thematic Mapping (ITM) has been visualized with required technology infusion that includes: Ground Penetration Radars [GPR], shallow drills, deep drills, Electron Probe Micro Analyzer etc. o As a redressal measure for effective analytical output with lower detection limits of geochemical samples, augmentation of the state of the art instruments such as ICPMS, AAS, XRF and DMA, in the laboratories of GSI has been incorporated. o In the field of geophysical mapping, the technology infusion that is being proposed includes high precision gravimeter and total field magnetometer. · For hyperspectral mapping, Space borne and Airborne Hyperion data with specific spectral range (necessary for geological objects) are to be procured and utilized. In this context, it is contemplated to have a continuous acquisition of hyperspectral data in collaboration with ISRO/ NRSG/NNRMS. · To enhance the pace of drilling and quality/reliability of subsurface information, it is necessary to induct improved techniques and equipment such as reverse circulation drilling with inbuilt system for controlled deflection of borehole path and adopting a combination of coring and non-coring operations in a single borehole. Rotary Air Blast (RAB) drilling which is fastest and cheap method is also to be inducted. State of the art drilling machines such as reverse circulation, hydraulic rigs, etc., are in the process of procurement.

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