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FRIDAY 18 April | 2014 | 17 Jamadi-Ul-Saani, 1435 AH | PAGES 12 |
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House damaged in fire Srinagar, Apr 17 : A residential house was damaged in fire in Sherghari area here on Wednesday evening. According to a police statement issued to KNS, fire broke out in the joint residential house of Mangat Singh and Hukomat Singh at Solina, in the jurisdiction of police station Shergari, Srinagar, resulting in partial damage to the house. Fire was brought under control with the help of fire tenders and police. (KNS)
Inside story Why Mamata is hitting Right when her real rival is the Left KOLKATA: The Left may be Mamata Banerjee’s biggest rival in Bengal, but it is Narendra Modi and BJP that the Trinamool Congress chief is targeting primarily in rally after rally . But why BJP in a state where it has yet to open its account? Political observers say Mamata has done her maths and is worried BJP’s ascent in Bengal could do more damage to TMC than the Left.
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On Edit Page Healthy criticism will strengthen the democratic institutions
With completion of 5th phase of Lok Sabha elections more than half of the constituencies have gone to polls and the polling has been by and large peaceful so far barring some scattered incidents of violence here and there. The rest of the constituencies will go to polls on 24th of April, 30th of April, 7th of May and 12th of May. Though the voters have turned in large numbers and cast their votes still it will be too early to believe any predictions, exit polls or opin-
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FORECAST OF SRINAGAR:
C TEMPERATURE M MAXIMUM Y MINIMUM K
SUNSET ON(FRIDAY) SUNRISE ON (SATURDAY)
14.80C 7.6 0C 07:05PM 05:58 AM
Largely Circulated, No. 1 Bilingual Daily of J&K
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Srinagar, Apr 17 (KNS): One person died while a minor girl was injured in two separate road traffic accidents across the valley. According to a police statement issued to KNS, an unknown vehicle hit and injured a person on NHW near Court Complex Tanchabagh, in the jurisdiction of Police station Pampore, Awantipora. The injured was shifted to Sub District hospital, Pampore where doctors declared him brought dead. Pampore Police has registered a case in this regard. See Mishaps On PG 11..
Partly cloudy sky. Maximum & Minimum temperatures will be around 13°C & 04°C respectively.
tice
Completes shooting schedule despite being hungry
1 dies another injured in road mishaps
FORECAST FOR NEXT 24 HRS:
Jus
Governor for providing Red Cross Internship to students
Srinagar, April 17: A seven year boy, who was hospitalized a week ago after being bitten by a canine, succumbed on Friday in a Srinagar hospital. The boy identified as Abrar Farooq Khan hailing from Khan Village of central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district was bitten by a rabid dog in Harran Shalbug plantation range in the district last week. He was immediately rushed to SKIMS Bemina in Srinagar outskirts. However, the boy succumbed today morning. (GNS)
Light Rain would occur at a few places over the state.
VOL NO: 4 | ISSUE NO: 107 | RS: 2/- (AIR SURCHARGE FOR JAMMU /DELHI/LEH 50 Paisa)
Admits love for Anushka
7 year old child dies of dog bite
WEATHER
For
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................. LS Elections-2014 ....................
69% polling in Udhampur LS seat: Narula JAMMU, APRIL 17: Around 69% electorate cast their vote in today’s polling for Udhampur Parliamentary Constituency, which concluded this evening. This is about 24% more than the polling percentage of last Parliamentary election. Disclosing this at a press conference here today the Chief Electoral Officer, UmangNarula said 64.48% votes were cast in Kishtwar, 68.41% in Doda, 63.22% in Ramban, 74.84% in Reasi, 67.92%in Udhampur, 70.43% in Kathua Districts and figures of exact polling are being received from various other far flung areas of these districts, which would add up the final poll percentage tally subsequently He said the polling was held in a peaceful atmosphere and so far no untoward incident was reported from any part of the constituency and in order to ensure that the polling is done in various inaccessible areas of the hilly districts 45 air sorties were done and 545 poll staff /personnel were airlifted. He further said that 1272 vehicles were also put in use for transportation of
Moderate to heavy polling recorded in 5th phase of LS elections
polling personnel and material. The Chief Electoral Officer said that the constituency was spread over large Geographical area covering six districts for which as many as 2051 polling station at
1798 locations were set up, which included 198 critical/hypersensitive ones. In order to improve the voting experience of the voters 53 model polling stations were established with innovative fa-
cilities, Narula said and added that web casting was done on 68 PS and 337 digital and 132 video cameras were deployed. Narula said See Narula On PG 11..
Confusion looms as Tosa Maidan lease ends Today Srinagar, April 17: (GNS) The Tosa Maidan lease is expiring tomorrow, but various civil society groups fighting against the extension of one of the largest meadows in Kashmir to army, say
Army waiting for headquarter’s directive Srinagar, Apr 17: Though the army and civil administration is tight lipped on extension in Tosa Maidan artillery firing range lease agreement, reliable sources today revealed to KNS that Chinar Corps has forwarded its recommendations on recently surfaced See Army On PG 11.. despite government claiming that the army would have to move out nothing has been communicated to them. The Right To Information (RTI) movement and Tosa Maidan
Bachao Front (TBF) which are spearheading the agitation against the proposed extension of the lease of the meadow in central Kashmir’s Budgam district have said that so far no official contacted them regarding the cancellation of lease. Talking to GNS, chairman of RTI movement, Shiekh Ghulam Rasool said: “Till this moment, no one from government has contacted us regarding the cancellation of lease. Our source of information is media and we don’t want verbal announcement but we believe in documents as Finance Minister Abdul Rahim Rather said few days ago. They should come out with documents before media.” On Tuesday, senior National Conference leader Rather said that government won’t extend the lease and the Chief Secretary-led official panel would identify some alternate site to relocate the army’s firing range. See Today On Page 11..
2014 offers historic opportunity to change system: Mufti Urges Srinagar to lead from front
Srinagar, Apr 17 : Urging the people of Srinagar to vote for Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the party patron, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed today said 2014 offers a historic opportunity for the state to defeat the vested interests that have held it captive for several decades. According to a statement issued to KNS, while addressing a well-attended public meeting in Batamaloo segment of Srinagar parliamentary constituency, Mufti said for any change in the system and governance to be credible it is essential that the politically conscience people of Srinagar lead from the front. He said the unchallenged dominance of NC for most part of the last century has resulted in complete degeneration of that party making it unable to either provide voice to the people or take care of their needs. “NC has now become a pow-
er broking agent that sells the interests of the state and its people for its share of power and luxury. Hence this party has lost its representative character and credibility and is on a life support system which would
not last long.” said Mufti. Referring to the repeated U-turns of NC to stay in power, Mufti said in1996 they sought votes in the name of autonomy and then went straight into the lap of BJP which has declared abrogation of Article 370 as one of its main objectives. See Mufti On PG 11..
New Delhi, Apr 17: Moderate to heavy voter turnout was reported in today's polling to 121 Lok Sabha seats spread over 12 states. 77 assembly constituencies in Odisha also went to the polls today. Addressing a press conference in New Delhi today, Election Commission officials said, maximum voter turnout was recorded in West Bengal with 78.89 per cent followed by 74 per cent in Manipur, 70 per cent in Odisha and over 69 per cent in Jammu and Kashmir. The polling was by and large peaceful barring Jharkhand which witnessed minor Maoist attack. In Maharashtra, 54.67 per cent of voting was reported for 19 Lok Sabha seats. 68 per cent of polling was witnessed for all 28 Lok Sabha seats in Karnataka. Rajasthan had its first phase of poll for 20 Lok Sabha constituencies today and 63 per See LS On PG 11..
PDP brain child of BJP ‘Muftis acting on Modi’s behest:Omar
For Kamal, Geelani and Mirwaiz are not wrong ‘Army occupied land illegally and Kashmir not meant for artillery drills’ Srinagar, April 17: Legislator and National Conference senior leader Dr Shiekh Mustafa Kamal Thursday said that Kashmir is a paradise on earth and Army should not be allowed to use this land for their artillery drills. “Mirwaiz is right and I acknowledge his See Kamal On PG 11..
Civil society group dares Mirwaiz Don’t have political ambitions Srinagar, Apr 17): Reacting to the statement of Huriyat Conference (M) Mirwaiz Umar Farooq wherein he had slammed Kashmir’s civil society group allegedly for dividing people in Kashmir See Civil On PG 11..
Wachi-Shopian, Apr 17 : Terming PDP a brain child of BJP, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah who is also the Working President of Jammu and Kashmir National Conference said that Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) founded PDP as its J&K State Unit and nurtured Mufti Mohammad Sayeed and his daughter to hatch an elaborate conspiracy of dividing the people of this State in general and people of the Valley in particular. According to a statement issued to KNS, saying that “BJP gave rise to the PDP in Jammu and Kashmir to deceive the
800 militants killed in custody during Omar rule: Er Rashid Srinagar, Apr 17 : Awami Itihad Party (AIP) president and Baramulla Parliamentary seat candidate Er Abdul Rashid today criticized the statement of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in which he had stated that it was during PDP rule that top militant leadership was liquidated. According to a statement issued to KNS, Er Rashid was addressing a public gathering at various places in Kulgam and Anantnag. While referring to the statement to Omar Abdullah Er Rashid asked him that the statement of Omar
reflects that during his rule no militant or innocent Kashmiri was killed? Er Rashid reminded Omar that during NC rule more than 800 militants were killed in custody. The PDP rule was no exception to such type of killings too. Er Rashid further alleged that both these parties are working on the diktats of Delhi and rubbing salt to the wounds of Kashmiris. He advised Mehbooba Mufti and Omar to rise above petty politics and chalk a way out that would See Rashid On PG 11..
Srinagar, Apr 17: Amid shutdown and clashes, NC patron Dr Farooq Abdullah addressed people at North Kashmir’s Bandipora- castigating BJP and PDP of being the followers of same ideology. According to the KNS correspondent, youth fought ding-dong battles with the police on Thursday ahead of Dr Farooq’s visit in the district. Reports added that youth in groups assembled in the main market of Hajin Bandipora and protested against the visit of NC patron in the area. Shopkeepers downed the shutters of their shops and transport services affected at large. At main bridge of Hajin, the groups of youth stopped the vehicles ferrying NC supporters and made them to return without joining rally of the NC leaders. Eye witness told KNS that the youth were checking the identity cards of the pedestrians crossing the Hajin bridge and NC supporters were not allowed to move ahead.Meanwhile, Dr Farooq flanked by senior NC leader See Farooq On PG 11..
people and nurture its communal agenda through PDP”, Omar reiterated that the current Parliamentary Elections had exposed the clandestine liaison between PDP and BJP. Addressing election rallies at Rajpora and Wachi in South Kashmir in favour of NC-Congress Coalition Candidate, Dr. Mehboob Baig, Omar said that the Mufti duo have come out openly to repay the debt they owe to BJP and Narendera Modi for their existence and the birth of their party in Jammu and Kashmir.Working President of See Omar On PG 11..
DLs without trial 4024 driving licenses issued in Kulgam in a single year Srinagar, April 17, CNS: When it comes to issuing of driving licenses, Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) Kulgam has proved to be as fast as leopard. The said officer has issued 4024 driving licenses in a year while during the same period the ARTO Ganderbal has issued only 541 driving licenses. The information sought under Right to Information See DLs On PG 11..
Admiral RK Dhowan is new Chief of Naval Staff New Delhi, Apr 17: The Government has appointed Admiral R K Dhowan PVSM AVSM YSM ADC as the Chief of the Naval Staff. Admiral RK Dhowan was commissioned in the Navy on 01 Jan 1975. He is a Navigation and Direction specialist who has served with distinction in an array of Command, Staff and Instructional appointments through his exemplary career spanning 40 years. He is an See Admiral On PG 11..
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Srinagar, Friday 18 April 2014
Narula that 269 micro observers were also deployed and 2772 EVMs were used in today’s polling. He appreciated the District machinery of Jammu Division for their efforts for synergizing various aspects of election management for ensuring smooth conduct of the electoral process. The CEO said 13 candidates were in the fray for the constituency which comprised 1468886 number of electors including 681206 female and 787680 male voters.
LS polling wa recorded. Madhya Pradesh witnessed 54 per cent voting for 10 parliamentary segments. In Bihar, the voter turnout was 56 per cent for 7 parliamentary constituencies. Eleven Lok Sabha seats in Uttar Pradesh saw 62 per cent voting while Jharkhand also recorded 62 per cent of voter turn out The officials said an FIR was registered against RJD candidate from Patliputra constituency and daughter of Lalu Prasad Misa Bharti for entering unauthorized into a polling compartment after which she had a ruckus with a group of voters. In an incident of land mine explosion and ambush by Maoists in Bokaro, 3 CRPF Jawans and one driver were injured. Odisha witnessed 70 per cent voters exercising their franchise for the simultaneous second and last phase of elections to 11 Lok Sabha and 77 assembly constituencies today.
Today The chief spokesperson of RTI movement Farooq Kuthoo threatened protests in case the lease is extended. “It will snowball into a major controversy,” he said. Rasool said that they are in favour of complete vacation and handover of meadow to the civil authorities. “We don’t want relocation, but vacation,” he said. The RTI chairman also announced that the group in cooperation with other civil society groups will hold protests in various parts of the Kashmir. “We have already appealed people to observe ‘Black Day’ on Friday. Apart from observing black day, our people will wear black bands and black flags will be hoisted at various places.” “The Kashmir’s civil society has announced support for our cause which include Doctors’ Association, Kashmir Economic Alliance, hoteliers, tourism stake holders and employees,” he said. He added that there will be protests in Srinagar’s press enclave and other parts of Kashmir. Despite repeated attempts, no state or army official could be contacted for the comment. But, a defense analyst while talking to GNS, said: I don’t think NC can afford to do that. It is a Catch-22 situation for Congress. If they don’t extend, the BJP will get after them for being soft on security.” Defense sources told GNS that the lease will be extended temporarily till the identification of alternate place. “We have sent our recommendations to the higher-ups in this regard,” they said. The matter could be resolved permanently once the new government takes over in New Delhi. (GNS)
Army lease row to army headquarters in Delhi. However, the sources added that any decision by the army on agreeing to use alternate locations will be taken by the army here only after a directive comes from its Delhi headquarters. Sources in civil administration however, divulged to KNS that the divisional commissioner Kashmir has been authorized by a high level committee headed by the chief secretary to visit some locations alongwith with some senior army officers to report about the feasibility of those spots. Pertinently the lease agreement between army and the state government on Tosa Maidan artillery firing range is expiring tomorrow. “The expiry of the lease agreement is a mere formality and it has no bearing on the relocation of the artillery firing range from Tosa Maidan. If some alternate location is found feasible, the technicalities of lease can be sorted out thereafter,” a senior officer in the civil administration told KNS pleading anonymity. (KNS)
Kamal version that only deserts are suited for artillery drills. The job of Army here is to safeguard borders and it is not meant to use the land of Kashmir for their military drills,” Kamal told Srinagar based news agency CNS adding that it would be injustice towards our ‘paradise’ if the Government provides alternate site to Army for their drills. He said that Kashmir is not a test laboratory for Army and it by no means has right over Tosamaidan or on any other piece of land in Kashmir. “Syed Ali Geelani is not wrong and I agree with him that Army has occupied 4.15 lakhs kanals of land illegally in Kashmir. The job of Army is not to occupy the land in Kashmir illegally but their job is to look after borders,” Kamal said. Kamal castigated Army for turning Kashmir into a battle zone. “Kashmir is not meant for bombs and bullets. Nature has bestowed us with rare resources and Army can’t destroy our rich resources and disfigure the natural beauty of our land by turning it into battle field,” he said adding that at least 12 places in Jammu and Kashmir are being used by Army for carrying out artillery drills. He said that lakhs of kanals of land in Kashmir are under Army’s occupation. “175.64 acres of land is under unauthorized occupation of army at Gulmarg. Government constituted a committee to take back the land from the Army but they are showing reluctance and are adamant to occupy the said land illegally,” Kamal said adding that Army in Kashmir is misusing their power and position.
Civil over Tosamadidan lease issue, the group Thursday reiterated that it is raising the issue on humanitarian grounds and no one can stop them. The Huriyat Conference (M) in a seminar held at its party headquarters on April 16 had stated that civil society should not poke its nose in every matter and stop their campaign against those who have sacrificed their lives for Azadi movement.
The civil society raising Tosa Maidan lease issue on Thursday came in open stating that they don’t have any ambitions of gaining any political platform and the group has no power sharing. Various members of the group whishing not to be named told KNS that if the issue of Tosa Maidan lease is given a political color then it will be difficult to resolve the issue. “This is possible that the issue could be related to Kashmir dispute and then we have to look towards Indo-Pak dialogue so that it could be resolved.” “We want to resolve it as humanitarian issue as the lives of the people living in the area is at stake, said another member, adding that the political leadership must not feel insecure as the society has no ambition to join the political fray. We are raising this issue as per our conscience like every Kashmiri who at present is concerned over the lease we will continue our efforts in this direction.” (KNS)
Omar National Conference said that the PDP's singular goal in fighting these Lok Sabha Elections is to field candidates tactically to support Narendera Modi and BJP by dividing voters on communal and regional lines. He said fielding of candidates by PDP in Jammu-Poonch and Udhampur-Doda Parliamentary Constituencies is clear proof of this tactical help PDP has provided to BJP and its Prime Ministerial candidate Narendera Modi. Omar said that the people of Jammu and Kashmir today stand at a historic juncture where they have to decide whether they want to see totalitarian and communal forces represented by Narendera Modi at the helm of affairs in the Country or see Rahul Gandhi - a consistent and sincere friend of J&K take on the reins of the country. It is Narendera Modi who has categorically stated in the BJP manifesto that BJP is “committed to abrogating Article 370,” and have advocated a Uniform Civil Code in the Country, sidelining sentiments of minorities. These are dangerous indications of Modi's bent of mind and despite these clear indications, PDP didn't even think twice before joining hands with Modi. “By voting in favour of NC-Congress Coalition Candidates you will be ensuring that India will be led by secular and democratic forces and voting in favour of PDP will pave the way for communal forces to govern the Country”, Omar said while asking the people to vote in large numbers in favour of Dr Mehboob Beg and help Rahul Gandhi to be the Prime Minister of the Country. Taking a dig at the performance of Mehbooba Mufti in the Lok Sabha as the then Parliament Member, Omar referred to the historic occasion when she was asked to speak in the Parliament on Amarnath Land Row and she rather than speaking up for the people of this State said “Mei Kya Bolun Yaar”! “Instead of this Dr. Mehboob Baig as the Parliament Member from South Kashmir has not only made scores of resounding and courageous speeches in the Parliament about the issues of Jammu and Kashmir and its people but also raised about a hundred different questions about the development of Jammu and Kashmir", Omar said while drawing parallels between the work done by Dr. Mehboob Baig as Parliament Member and that of Mehbooba Mufti in the same capacity. The Minister for Rural Development, Ali Muhammad Sagar also spoke on the occasion while MLC Bashir Ahmad Magrey and various senior NC and Congress leaders were present on the occasion. (KNS)
Mufti He said NC had a record 60 members in the state assembly and it had no compulsions to join the NDA, but it sacrificed the confidence and faith of the people just for Omar Abdullah to become a junior minister in the BJP-led government. Even the NDA could have run its government without the participation of NC but strangely DrFarooq Abdullah decided to gatecrash into the BJP –led coalition even in the face of opposition from their own ranks, Mufti said and recalled how Prof. Saif-u-DinSoz was thrown out of the NC for voting against the first NDA government, which brought that down. Mufti said all the alliance of NC have been without a political purpose or development goals, whether in 1986 Rajiv-Farooq coalition or NDA time or now in the Rahul-Omar alliance, the sole purpose has been somehow to secure power and keep Kashmir deprived of democratic rights and its due share in the development. Mufti said while being the NDA partner, NC failed to secure any benefits and concessions for J&K instead it created a frame work of terror through task force, SOG, Ikhwan, enforced POTA, transferred 7 most feasible power projects to NHPC, banned Shahtoos and gave an understanding to the Central government to ban recruitment, opening of schools and up gradation educational institutions. It also extended AFSPA to Jammu region. “NC enforced a package to disempowered the people of the state politically and deprived them economically. The transfer of power to NHPC was a major blow to the economy of the state and the ban of Shahtoos hit Srinagar the most resulting in destitution of thousands of families who earned their livelihood which has given Kashmir its global identity,” said Mufti. He said NC didn’t leave NDA even when ‘Autonomy resolution’ was humiliatingly rejected or when the Gujarat riots generated outrage in the country. The Congress-NC collaboration in 1986 resulted in pushing the youth of the state out of democratic system and Kashmir is still bearing the brunt of rigging resorted in 1987. The present coalition, he said, has brought nothing but miseries and destruction as a result of mis-governance, corruption and inefficiency. He said NC and Congress leadership can’t wash their hands off the secret hanging of Mohammad Afzal Guroo, out of turn, last year. He said the PDP’s agenda is to prevent such things in future and the party will work to uphold the sentiments of people and protect the interests of the state. He said Srinagar has been the main victim of NC’s lust for power and inability to govern. He said out of 126 persons killed in 2010 by Omar Abdullah government most of the victims belong to Srinagar. Thousands have been involved in multiple police cases and an entire generation has been labeled as stone-pelters, drug addicts, LeT agents, criminals etc. He said PDP had made a strong beginning in reconstruction of Srinagar along with the other parts of the state in spite of the fact that it had no representative from Srinagar. “But we considered Srinagar as heart of Kashmir that must be in good shape for the entire region to feel good,” he said. Mufti said the initiatives taken by his government had unfortunately been abandoned by Omar Abdullah government in spite of the fact that it owed its existence to the eight seats in Assembly from the city. He said the PDP’s main thrust would be to upgrade the representation of the state in the parliament. He said the irresponsible statements made by the present
MP, Dr Farooq Abdullah which branded every Kashmiris as ‘Maha Chors’ should be taken seriously.
Rashid not hurt the interests of Kashmiris otherwise history will remember them as criminals. He alleged that both these parties just indulge in mudslinging against each other and are not interested in resolving the issues facing a common Kashmiri. “Both Omar and Mehbooba exploit the name of militancy and Syed Salahudddin to befool gullible Kashmiris. On the one hand they are trying to please Delhi through their measures against militancy and on the other hand they are praising the militants to get favors from the masses.” Er Rashid said if Omar is true to his claim then can't it be stated as an acknowledgement of the fact that militants are representing the emotions of the common Kashmiris. He pointed towards PDP and NC and advised them that they should stop showing green pastures to Kashmiris instead they should focus on making India accept the disputed status of Kashmir and be united in taking people out of this mess or they should leave Kashmiris on their own so that they can evolve a better roadmap for resolution of Kashmir issue. (KNS)
Farooq Mohammad Akbar Lone, Lok Sabha candidate for Baramulla Sharief-ud-Din Shariq addressed the people. He stated that the policies of PDP have always been against the interests of the state and that the credit the party is taking for the opening of Mughal road and Muzarrafabad route is a mere ‘hoax’. “The reality is that NC strived for the opening of the road links and since 1974 our party took strong steps to resolve Kashmir.” NC patron stated that earlier when he visited Pakistan- he urged the then establishment of the country to have cordial relations with India so that the settlement of the pending issues could be looked into.
DLS Act (RTI) under section 7 by a citizen namely Junaid Nazir of Shaheed Ganj Srinagar has revealed that ARTO Kulgam Mubashir Jan has issued 4024 non-commercial and commercial licenses from February 13, 2013 to March 30, 2014 while during the same period the information provided by Department of Transport (Motor Vehicles) under RTI act has revealed that ARTO Ganderbal Abdul Majeed Rather has issued only 541 driving licenses. As per the information, the trials under taken by ARTO Ganderbal out of 1088 only 541 people qualified for the driving licenses while in case of ARTO Kulgam out of 4472 only 448 people were disqualified after trials. It is worth to mention such a huge number of persons have been issued driving licenses by ARTO Kulgam despite the fact only one trial had been conducted in a week till 26 March 2014. “How is it possible for the said officer to issue 4024 licenses in a year when as per the information there were only 48 trials in a year? Is it possible that a hundred odd people would qualify in a single trial,” RTI activist told CNS demanding a through probe into the matter. ARTO Kulgam, Mubashir Jan told CNS that in a
single trial at least 100 people used to qualify. “We do videography as well as photography during every trial,” he said. (CNS)
Admiral alumnus of the National Defence Academy, Defence Services Staff College and Naval War College, Newport, Rhode Island, USA.
Mishaps Meanwhile, a motorcycle bearing registration number JK04/7891 hit and injured a five years old girl Bilkees Shafi daughter of Mohammad Shafi resident of Kralgund Handwara at Kralgund. The injured was shifted Hospital for treatment. Handwara Police has registered a case in this regard. (KNS)
Office of the Dean Faculty of Arts University of Kashmir Counseling Session
The counseling sessions for filling up some vacancies in the below mentioned programmes of the Faculty shall take place on April 19, 2014 . Candidates having up the cut off merit are directed to down load the counseling form from the university website www.kashmiruniversity.net and submit the same in the office of the undersigned as per the below mentioned time. The vacant seat/s shall be filled on the basis of the merit and counseling. Candidates who do not attend the counseling shall not be considered for admission. The reserved category candidates must bring original certificates with them. M.A Library and information Science MLIS ( April 19, 2014 at 11:00 am ) Open merit:- 39.87 Reserved categories RBA: 36.20 WUP:33.45 CDP:33.87 NCC: All the candidates. 2. M.A Linguistics ( April 19, 2014 at 12 noon ) Open merit: 27.48 Reserved categories RBA: 24.51 3. M.A Kashmiri ( April 19, 2014 at 1:00 pm ) Open merit: 52.59 Reserved categories WUP:32.98 4. M.A Urdu (April 19, 2014 at 2:00 pm ) Open merit: 56.54 Reserved categories SC/ST: 39.99 CGB: 21.33 5. M.A English Main Campus ( April 19, 2014 at 3:00 pm ) Open merit: 51.88 Reserved categories RBA: 46.33 No:-F (PG Adm-Self Finance ) DFA KU / 2014 /ET-77 Dated: April 16,2014. Sd/- Prof Bashir Ahmad Nahvi Dean, Faculty of Arts
GOVERNMENT OF JAMMU AND KASHMIR SERVICES SELECTION BOARD, JAMMU. NOTICE
Subiect:-Re-schedulinq of Interview for the post of Teacher, District Cadre Udhampur, advertised vide Notification No 03 of 2012. 02 of 2013. 05 of 2013 and 06 of 2013. Item Nos 434. 246, 507 and 620 respectively. It is hereby notified for the information of candidates whose interview schedule was notified vide this office notice issued under endorsement No. SSB/ Sel/ Secy/ 2014/ / 1900-14 dated 19-03-2014 SSB/Sel/Secy/2014/2154-69 dated 03-04-2014 for the post of Teacher, District Cadre Udhampur, advertised vide Notification No 03 of 2012, 02 of 2013, 05 of 2013 and 06 of 2013, Item Nos 434, 246, 507 and 620, that the said interview is re-scheduled and shall now be conducted as perthe detail's given herein below:-' S.No.
Earlier Date of Interview
Re-scheduled Date of Interview
851 to 950
21st and 22nd of April, 2014
21st of April 2014.
951 to 1050
23rd and 24th of April, 2014
22nd of April, 2014
1051 to 1150
25th and 26th of April, 2014
23rd of April, 2014
1151 to 1250
28th and 29th of April, 2014
24th of April, 2014
1251 to 1350
30th of April and 01st of May, 2014
25th of April, 2014
1351 to 1450
02nd and 03rd May 2014
26th of April, 2014
1451 to 1550
05th and 06th May, 2014
28th of April, 2014
1551 to 1637
07th and 08th May 2014
29th of April, 2014
701 to 800
09th and 10th May, 2014
30th of April, 2014
801 to 850
12th of May, 2014
01st of May, 2014.
However, there shall be no^hange with respect to the venue/time as notified earlier. DIPK:111 Sd/- SECRETARYSERVICES SELECTION BOARD, JAMMU
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FROM THE FRONT PAGE
Zabarwan Times
Government of Jammu & Kashmir
OFFICE OF THE EXECUTIVE ENGINEER, PDA, PAHAIGAM, Gist of this office NIT SI NO Short Term EE/PDA/02 of 2014-15 dated 12/ 04/2014
For and on behalf of the Pahalgam Development /Authority, Pahalgam .The Executive Engineer, PDA, Pahalgam hereby invite sealed tenders affixed with revenue stamps worth Rs 5/= from the approved, registered PWD Contractors of the clashes shown against each work below. s. No
Name of the work
Estd/Ad v.Cost Rs in lacs
E/Money
Class of contractor
Time for compl.
Cos of tender documents
01
Errection of 16 NO of prefabricated Huts at Chandanwari for conduct of yatra 2014.
2.70
Rs 5400/-
DEE
15 Days
Rs 200/=
02
Errection of 5 No of prefabricated huts ate Sheshnag for conduct of yatra 2014
0.84
Rs 1680/= DEE
10 days
Rs 200/=
03
Errectiion of 05 NO of prefabricated huts ate Panchterni for conduct of yatra 2014
0.84
Rs 1680/= DEE
10 days
Rs 200/=
Position of Funds; - Demanded i). The tender documents shall be available from the office of the Executive Engineer, PDA Pahalgam W,e,f 29 / 04 /2014 to 30 /04/2014 and shall'be issued to the eligible contractors against cash payment as cost of tender documents indicated against each work above.The tender\ documents shall be issued only after production of valid TIN NO ,PAN No,Regd. Card and sales tax clearance certificate of preceding year. 2). The tenders should be posted through registered post, through currier or delivered in person so as to reach the office of the Executive Engineer,PDA Pahalgam on 01 /05/2014 DIPK-NB: 36 Sd/- Executive Engineer, PDA Pahalgam
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
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SRINAGAR | THURSDAY, APRIL | 17 | 2014 Srinagar, Friday 18 April 2014
169th Managing Committee Meeting of Red Cross held
Governor for providing Red Cross Internship to students JAMMU, APRIL 17: Governor, prescribed by the Bureau of Phar- directed that the Deputy CommisMr .N. N. Vohra, President of Indian ma Public Sector undertakings of sioners should ensure the availRed Cross Society, J&K, observed India which are, in most cases, sig- ability of fully equipped computer that it would be beneficial if Red nificantly lower than the market with internet facility at every DisCross Internship is introduced in the State Universities and Government Medical Colleges. He also emphasized the use of imparting Red Cross training to teachers in educational institutions who could, in turn, train their students. Referring to the role of Red Cross in offering its valuable services during disasters, he said that a large corpus of trained manpower will be an asset for the State. The Governor was chairing the 169th Managing Committee Meeting of the Indian Red Cross Society, J&K State Branch, held at Raj Bhavan, here today. While reviewing the present status of the Jan Aushadi Scheme, the Committee stressed needAgency ratesKangan of branded medicines. The trict Red Cross Unit. LonetheNews Khan News Agency Ganderbal to create wide spread awareness Governor also suggested that the Referring to the need for inGulzar News Agency Soura Zahid Book Depot Chadoora about the availability of the ge- volunteers who are instrumental tensifying Red Cross activities Tariqfrom News Hawal News Nowhatta neric drugs at fixed prices theAgency in saving people’s lives shouldBashir be in the Agency State, the Governor obJan Aushadi GenericMuzaffar Drug Stores dulyAgency recognized. served that the District, Regional Ali News Alamgari Bazar Budshah News Agency Lal Chowk which are being runAbdullah by the Red To upgrade the infrastructure andNews StateAgency Branches the Red News Agency Lal Chowk Sikendar Lal of Chowk Cross in the State. Medicines avail- at the district level offices of the Cross should generate the reGupkari News Agency LalSociety, Chowkthe Committee Raina quired News Agency Kangan for able in these stores are at the rates Red Cross logisticsGund and resources
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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 Agencycandidate BandiporaKhBARAMULLA, APRIL 17: An News Independent waja Tanveer Hussain Altaf today filed Agency his nomination papers for News Pulwama 01-Baramulla Parliamentary before the ReturnJeelaniConstituency News Agency Baramulla ing Officer, the DeputyShah Commissioner, Baramulla. News Agency Kupwara It is pertinent to mention that 5 candidates from various Agency Langate papers political parties have Younis already News filled their nomination Reshion News Agency Islamabad before the Returning Officer Wednesday. So far six candidates have News filed their papers so far for the Turray Agency Tral 01-Baramulla Parliamentary Constituency. Rahi News Agency Kulgam Rah News Agency Byepass
One more candidate files nomination for 01-Baramulla Parliamentary Constituency
EVM randomization held in Bandipora-DEO inspects strong room
BANDIPORA, APRIL 17: The first randomization of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) was held in presence of District Election Officer, Bandipora, Dr. Shah Faisal here today. These machines are being put into service on the poll day in Gurez, Bandipora and Sonawari segments of the district. A quota of extra EVMs was also kept available for all the three segments during the randomization.Electoral Registration Officer, Bandipora, concerned Assistant Returning Officers and the representatives of various political parties were also present on the occasion.Later, the District Election Officer along with Assistant Returning Officers and Political Parties inspected the strong room for Electronic Voting Machines in the district.
promptly and effectively dealing with all emergent situations to provide timely relief and succour to the needy. In this context, he
stressed the high importance of organizing First Aid and short term Disaster Management courses and security drills for the Red Cross volunteers to build their capacities in undertaking rescue and relief operations in the hour of need. He observed
that medical training camps should be organized periodically, particularly in the accident prone remote and far-flung areas of the State, to train volunteers to render first aid and utilize other life saving techniques to save lives in the case of any emergent situation till specialized medical assistance becomes available to the needy. Reviewing the status of the proposed Red Cross Complex at Srinagar, the Committee decided that the required funds will be allocated by the State Government as projectised aid. The Divisional Commissioner Kashmir was directed to ensure that the building plans are approved and work initiated at the earliest. It was proposed that there should be set up, Blood Banks maintained and operated by the Red Cross at Jammu and Srinagar. The Governor asked Divisional Commissioners of Kashmir and Jammu to prepare DPRs in this regard in consultation with the Red Cross Society and the State Health Department.
Rashid News Agency Dalgate Hilal News Agency Budgam Bhat News Agency Chadoora Shri Amarnathji Yatra -2014 Zargar News Agency Kunzar Bashir News Agency Sumbal Saleem News Agency Pattan Reyaz News Agency Pampore Javaid News Agency Qazigund G.M News Agency Sopore JAMMU, APRIL 17: At a review cleaning of Camps, track cleaning, Directors; provision of telecom serSultan News Agency Handwara meeting chaired by Shri N.N. Vohra, garbage collection and disposal; pro- vices in the Yatra etc. SheikhJ&K, News Agency Islamabad Governor, who is the Chairman of vision of insurance covers to regisThe Governor stressed the need Way News Agency Tral ShriThree Amarnathji Shrine Board (SASB), tered Yatris, Service Providers and for ensuring time bound action on all various issues concerning the logistic ponies; grant of permissions to NGOs fronts to ensure the smooth conduct Badru News Agency Bijbehara andMalik other related arrangements in the to set up Langars in the Yatra area; ap- of Shri Amarnathji Yatra 2014. He diNews Agency Arwani context of ensuing Shri Amarnathji pointment and deployment of Camp rected the CEO to visit Chandanwari Shaheen News Agency Kargil Yatra were discussed. Directors; provision of telecom ser- and Baltal to assess the status of the
Governor reviews provision of arrangements for Yatra
Mr. Rakesh Kumar Gupta, Principal Secretary to Governor, and CEO, SASB; Shri Preet Pal Singh, Additional CEO, SASB, Shri R.K. Pandita, General Manager (Works), SASB and other concerned officers were present in the meeting. The CEO briefed the meeting about the to-date position of various ongoing arrangements for the Yatra including the registration of Yatris; provision of heli-services in the Yatra area; grant of Tent and Shop permissions, registration of dandiwallas, pony-wallas and palkiwallas; registration of ponies; arrangements for
vices in the Yatra etc. The CEO briefed the meeting about the to-date position of various ongoing arrangements for the Yatra including the registration of Yatris; provision of heli-services in the Yatra area; grant of Tent and Shop permissions, registration of dandiwallas, pony-wallas and palkiwallas; registration of ponies; arrangements for cleaning of Camps, track cleaning, garbage collection and disposal; provision of insurance covers to registered Yatris, Service Providers and ponies; grant of permissions to NGOs to set up Langars in the Yatra area; appointment and deployment of Camp
snowmelt and the date by which preparatory works could be taken up and executed for the forthcoming Yatra. He also directed the CEO to discuss all Yatra 2014 issues with the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Deputy Commissioners of Anantnag and Ganderbal Districts, CEOs of the Pahalgam and Sonamarg Development Authorities, Director General, Indian Meteorological Department, Chief Engineer, Project Beacon, Border Roads Organization, and all other related agencies. Shri Rakesh Kumar Gupta, CEO of the Shrine Board, stated that regular review meetings will be held.
Jayalalithaa questions Modi’s model, says Tamil Nadu is more developed than Gujarat CHENNAI: Continuing her tirade against Narendra Modi’s Gujarat model of development, Tamil Nadu chief minister and AIADMK general secretary J Jayalalithaa on Thursday said that Tamil Nadu is much more developed than his state in all aspects. At an election rally in Krishnagiri on Thursday, the chief minister drew comparison between Tamil Nadu and Gujarat on various counts. She said a myth had been created about Gujarat’s growth that it topped the states in the country. “But it is not correct. The fact is that Gujarat is more concerned about marketing the state while Tamil Nadu, under my leadership, is concerned more about delivering the public service than lip service,” she said. Rejecting the claims of Modi that the interlinking of e thriver scheme was brought in by the
Why Mamata is hitting Right when her real rival is the Left KOLKATA: The Left may be Mamata Banerjee’s biggest rival in Bengal, but it is Narendra Modi and BJP that the Trinamool Congress chief is targeting primarily in rally after rally . But why BJP in a state where it has yet to open its account? Political observers say Mamata has done her maths and is worried BJP’s ascent in Bengal could do more damage to TMC than the Left. “BJP says it will come to power. But I ask how it will come to power? The face of Gujarat is communal. Not the people of Gujarat, but the leader is communal,” Mamata said on April 11 at a rally at Islampur in Uttar Dinajpur, “The face of riot-hit Gujarat is their real face,” she added. Two days later, in Siliguri, she scaled up her anti-Modi rhetoric. “A vote for BJP means a vote for riots. People will reject those with blood on their hands.” She didn’t stop with the communal tag. Mamata picked holes in Modi’s development model as well. BJP has always been an insignificant player in Bengal. In the 2004 LS polls, it got 8.06% of the total votes polled, while Left got 50.72%, winning 35 of the state’s 42 seats. TMC got 21.04% votes and won only one. Left’s sharp decline was evident in 2009, when its vote share slid to 43.2% and its seats dropped to only 15, and Trinamool’s vote share jumped to 31.2% and total seats to 19. But BJP, which fought from 13 seats, fared worse than in 2004 with its vote share sliding to 6.14%. This year, there’s a far greater buzz around BJP. Left sources admitted the saffron party could cut into both Left and TMC votes, saying if BJP’s vote share did not cross 7-8 %, it was likely to hurt both parties equally. But they assessed that if BJP managed to pull its vote share up into the double digits, it would hurt TMC the most.
Vajpayee-led NDA government, Jayalalithaa said no progress was made on it then. The Tamil Nadu government has spent Rs 100.96 crore towards the implementation of phase I and II of ThamirabaraniKarumeniyaru-Nambiyaru interlinking project. Two projects have been evolved to implement Pennaiyar-Palar scheme at an estimated cost of Rs 500 crore. The UPA government had rejected Tamil Nadu’s Rs 4,000 crore worth proposal for interlinking the Cauvery and the Gundar and a Rs 1,862-crore plan to link Athikadavu-Avinashi projects. Jayalalaithaa sought
to know whether the BJP would guarantee Rs 6,500 crore towards implementing all these projects. “Interlinking of rivers in Tamil Nadu requires water in the Cauvery. Will the BJP guarantee implementation of Mahanathi-Godavari-Cauvery interlinking project,” she asked. The AIADMK leader urged the BJP to guarantee uninterrupted supply of water in the Cauvery. “The BJP has to clarify this,” Jayalalithaa said. The chief minister said the AIADMK would create records of sorts when the people of Tamil Nadu extended support to the party to be part of the new dispensation at the Centre. “If you offer support to the AIADMK to evolve policies at the Centre, I promise you that we will meet the needs of Tamils and resolve the issues plaguing Tamil Nadu,” he said.
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
Uma Bharati’s controversial video which calls Modi ‘vinash purush’ out LUCKNOW: The Congress party on Thursday pulled out a video clip from the archives showing BJP leader Uma Bharati describing the BJP prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi as ‘vinash purush’ instead of ‘vikas purush’, to claim that this was the true picture of Modi. This is not the first time that Uma Bharati, BJP’s candidate from Jhansi in Uttar Pradesh, is under the spotlight for taking on Modi. Earlier, another video clip was aired by news channels in which Uma Bharati was shown saying that Modi was not as good an orator as former Prime Minister and BJP veteran Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The video clip released by the Congress party on Thursday was reportedly shot shortly after Uma had quit the BJP to float her own political outfit by the name of Bharatiya Janshakti Party in 2006. She rejoined the BJP in 2011. The video clip released by the Congress party on Thursday was reportedly shot shortly after Uma had
quit the BJP to float her own political outfit by the name of Bharatiya Janshakti Party in 2006. She rejoined the BJP in 2011. Apart from accusing Modi of having a dictatorial attitude, the video also shows Uma Bharati pointing out gross anomalies that were deliberately introduced to tamper the statistics of the Gujarat government related to the count of people living below poverty line during Modi’s first stint as chief minister of the state. Uma has been having on-off relations with the BJP ever since she returned to the party fold in 2011. Even before the present elections, she had expressed her desire to contest the Lok Sabha polls from Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh but was eventually fielded as the BJP candidate from Jhansi in Uttar Pradesh. There were reports that BJP also wanted to field her against Congress president Sonia Gandhi in Amethi, but she refused
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// OPINION OPINION Unemployment Healthy criticism strengthen Awill challenge for thegovernment democratic the institutions he rising unemployment
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has become problem itha big completion nationally of and5th on state lev-of phase Lok Sabha el as the increasing numberelecof tions more than educated unemployed including half of the conthe skilled and unskilled youths stituencies haveover gone to lakhs polls has now touched eight and the polling has been by and in Jammu and Kashmir itself. large peaceful far to barring The state sector isso unable cope some scattered incidents of viup with the situation as there are olence any hereavenues and there. The can rest hardly which of the constituencies will go accommodate these youth andto polls onthem 24th respectable of April, 30th of provide jobs. April, 7th of May and 12th of The has notheprivate May.state Though voterssector have hence is nonumbers question and of turnedthere in large big castindustries their votes accommodating still it will be too aearly goodtonumber believe Of anyunemployed predictions, youths. The overall intake the exit polls or opinion pollsin based state sector surveys is not more than by a on sample conducted few thousands in a year and who the some media organizations recruitment procedure is so diffisay that the huge turnout will cult and lengthy that the state rehelp BJP in its dominated areas. cruiting takecalculations years to fill Leavingagencies aside these thea few voter turnoutThe is really enup vacancies. fast track couraging and depicts the firm recruitment policy announced faith the people on democratic by thatofstate government has toinstitutions in the The tally failed and not country. a single apconstitution India which has pointment hasofbeen made so far given this rightninety to the under this precious policy. Over people has done tremendous thousand posts are avacant in difservice to the overall formation ferent departments but the proof a democratic mindset which longed recruitment has almost helps in regionstalled theminimizing process oftheappointalism, The communalism and disments. worrying thing is that crimination on the basis of caste over creedtwo andlakh coloreducated and alsoyouths makes will get over aged within next one the whole atmosphere somehow year, so their futureIf will become parliamentarian. we compare bleak forever. Despite India and withdark its neighbours it has repeated announcements by the definitely succeeded in strengthstate government to cope up with ening the democratic instituthe rising on war tions andunemployment in turn has increased footing, nothing seems to in have its prestige and influence inbeen done so far in this connecternational community where tion ground zero level. is Indiaon is considered to be the It largest democracy of the for world. No definitely frustrating those doubt there has been a decline youth who aspire for a job to make in the political moral ethics both ends meet.and If the situation and our like politicians have gone continues this these youths down the leveland where they are will be to exploited misguided notvested expected to goand andsome have inby interests of dulged in abusive language, perthem will fall in the trap of other sonal evils criticism and character associal like drugs, thefts and sassination of eachThe other. Some unethical activities. governyears back there was hardly any ment should immediately underpolitical leader who would use stand the gravity of the situation filthy language against his oppoand should formulate an effective nent and will even hesitate to go employment policy which for personal attacks and it can was accommodate maximum numdue to that political ethics that ber youthsmaking on fast track wasofreally every basis. IndiItanshould also strengthen udaan to boast on their democratic and other schemes launched by institutions and their leaders. the so that Stillcentral one cangovernment say that despite this more more youthsthe are demomade moraland degradation skilled to tap their capabilities. It cratic system has thrived in India should also give that a flipthese to Sher-iand is so strong things cannot harm its roots.guarantee It will be Kashmir employment in fitness theself things if the poscheme so of that employment litical parties and effective their leaders becomes a big and tool exercise utmost restraint while to tackle the daunting task of procriticizing their opponents and viding employment to the youth should resort to healthy ofinstead the state. criticism which will benefit the country and the society at large.
Daily Daily
Zabarwan Zabarwan Times Times
Srinagar, 05 March Srinagar,Wednesday Friday 18 April 2014 2014
Model Code of Conduct & its Evolution F ree and fair elections form the bed rock of democracy. This envisages a level playing field for the contestants and an equal opportunity for all parties for presenting their policies and programmes to voters. In this context the Model Code of Conduct(MCC) gains relevance. The MCC intends to provide a level playing field for all political parties, keep the campaign fair and healthy, avoid clashes and conflicts between parties, and ensure peace and order. It aims to ensure that the ruling party, either at the Centre or in the states, does not misuse its official position to gain an unfair advantage in an election. This instrument is a major contribution of Indian electoral system to the cause of democracy. The MCC is a set of norms for conduct and behavior on the part of the Parties and candidates, in particular. The uniqueness of the MCC is the fact that this was a document that originated and evolved with the consensus of the political parties. The origin of the MCC dates back to 1960 when the MCC started as a small set of Dos and Don’ts for the Assembly election in Kerala in 1960. The Code covered conducting of election meetings/processions, speeches, slogans, posters and placards (CEC-Shri K.V.K.Sundaram). In 1962 Lok Sabha General Elections, the Commission circulated this code to all the recognized political parties and the State Governments were requested to secure the acceptance of the Code by the Parties. (CEC-Shri K.V.K.Sundaram). Report received after the 1962 general election showed that the Code was followed by and large. In 1967, the Code was followed in the Lok Sabha and Assembly elections. (CEC-Shri K.V.K.Sundaram). Evolution of the MCC and its implementation since 1967 · In 1968, the Election Commission held meetings with political parties at State level and circulated the Code of Conduct to observe minimum standard of behavior to ensure free and fair elections. (CECShri S.P. Sen Verma)
· In 1971-72, during General Election to the House of the People/ State Legislative Assemblies the Commission circulated the Code again. (CEC-Shri S.P. Sen Verma) · At the time of general elections to some State Assemblies in 1974, the Commission issued the code of conduct to the political parties in those States. The Commission also suggested constituting committees at district level headed by the District Collector and comprising representatives of political parties as members for considering cases of violation of the code and ensuring its compliance by all parties and candidates. · For the 1977 Lok Sabha general election, the Code was again circulated to the political parties. (CECShri T. Swaminathan). · In 1979, Election Commission, in consultation with the political parties further amplified the code, adding a new Section placing restrictions on the “Party in power” so as to prevent cases of abuse of position of power to get undue advantage over other parties and candidates. (CEC-Shri S.L.Shakhdar) · In 1991, the code was consolidated and re-issued in its present form. (CEC-Shri T.N.Seshan). · The present code contains guidelines for general conduct of political parties and candidates (no attack on private life, no appeal to communal feelings, discipline and decorum in meetings, processions, guidelines for party in power – official machinery and facilities not to be used for electioneering, prohibition against Ministers and other authorities in announcing grants, new schemes etc). · Ministers and those holding public offices are not allowed to combine official visits with electioneering tours. · Issue of advertisements at the cost of public exchequer is prohibited. · Grants, new schemes / projects cannot be announced. Even the schemes that may have been announced before the MCC came into force, but that has not actually tak-
en off in terms of implementation on field are also required to be put on hold. · It is through such restrictions that the advantage of being in power is blunted and the contestants get the opportunity to fight on more or less equal terms. · MCC has got the judicial recognition of the highest court of land. The dispute over the date when the Model Code of Conduct should come into force -- the issuance of the press release by EC announcing the poll dates or the date of actual notification in this regard was resolved in the Union of India Vs. Harbans Sigh Jalal and Others [SLP (Civil) No.22724 of 1997)] decided on 26.04.2001. The apex court gave the ruling that the Code of Conduct would come into force the moment the Commission issues the press release, which precedes the notification by a good two weeks. This ruling lay at rest the controversy related to the dates of enforcement of MCC. Thus the MCC remains in force from the date of announcement of elections till the completion of elections. Legal Status for Model Code: Views of the Election Commission There is an opinion in certain quarters for providing legal status to MCC. The Election Commission has, however, taken a stand against granting of such status to MCC. According to the Commission bringing the MCC on the statute book will only be counter-productive. In our country, elections are conducted within a very limited time span according to a well laid down schedule. Normally, a general election in a State is completed in about 45 days, from the day of announcement of the election schedule by the Commission. Thus, the expedition and promptness in dealing with the cases of violation of the model code of conduct is of the essence. If no timely action is taken to curb the violations and against the violators of the model code during the limited period when the election process is on, the whole significance of the MCC would be lost and the violator
would be able to reap the benefit of such violation. If the model code of conduct is converted into a law, this would mean that a complaint would lie to the police/Magistrate. The procedures involved in judicial proceedings being what they are, a decision on such complaints would most likely come only long after the election is completed. MCC is not a Hindrance to Developmental activities One often gets to hear the complaint that the MCC is coming in the way of developmental activities. However, even during the short period when MCC is in operation, the ongoing development activities are not stopped and are allowed to proceed unhindered, and only the new projects, etc. which have not taken off on the ground that have to be deferred till the completion of elections. If there is any work that cannot wait for any reason (relief work on account of any calamity, etc), the matter can be referred to the Commission for clearance. It is apt to refer to the following passage from a very recent Judgment (dated 16.02.2012) of the Allahabad High Court (Lucknow Bench) in Writ Petition No. 1361 of 2012 (Dr. Nutan Thakur Vs. Election Commission of India): ‘It shall not be out of place to mention that after election, peoples’ representatives discharge their obligation almost for a period of five years. The elections are held at the fag end of their tenure unless the assembly or Parliament is suspended or dissolved earlier. While holding the office, it is always obligatory on the part of the peoples’ representative to discharge their obligation honestly and fairly to serve the nation. In case they failed to discharge their obligation during their entire term while in office or in opposition, then making statement as a measure of allurement or appeasement to the peoples after issuance of Election Notification, shall be nothing but an instance of unfair practice on their part.’
Instant Feedback To Voters Through VVPAT
Voter-verified paper audit trail (VVPAT) is a method of providing feedback to voters using a ballot less voting system. VVPAT is intended as an independent verification system for electronic voting machines that allows voters to verify that their votes are cast as intended and can serve as an additional barrier to changing or destroying votes. Under VVPAT, a printer-like apparatus is linked to Electronic Voting Machine (EVM). When a vote is cast, a receipt is generated showing the serial number, name and symbol of the candidate. It confirms the vote and the voter can verify the details. The receipt, once viewed, goes inside a container linked to the EVM and can only be accessed by the election officers in rarest of rare cases. The system allows a voter to challenge his or her vote on basis of the paper receipt for the first time. As per a new rule, the booth presiding officer will have to record the dissent of the voter, which would have to be taken into account at time of counting. The VVPAT system was not manufactured due to doubts on the EVM, but was part of the up gradation of the system. Chronology of events leading to the use of VVPAT v In All Party Meeting held on 4th October 2010, there was a broad consensus among Political Parties about the continued use of Electronic Voting Machines and several Political Parties suggested that the possibility of incorporating a “Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail” should be explored. v The Election Commission referred the matter to the Expert Committee to examine the possibility of a paper trail and also directed the manufacturers i.e. Bharat Electronics Limited, Bangalore (BEL) and Electronics Corporation of India Limited, Hyderabad (ECIL) to develop a prototype of VVPAT system. v On the recommendation of Technical Experts Com-
mittee, a field trail was conducted in Thiruvananthapuram, Delhi, Jaisalmer, Cherapunjee and Leh in the month of July 2011 in the presence and participation of all stakeholders including general voters, national and state political parties, civil society organizations and media. v After incorporation of the changes recommended after the first field trial , a second field trial of prototype VVPAT system was held in Delhi, Thiruvananthapuram, Leh, Jaisalmer and Cherapunjee in July-August, 2012. The Technical Expert Committee approved the final design of the VVPAT units in its meeting held on 19th February, 2013.v The Government of India, vide their notification, dated 14th august 2013, has amended the Conduct of Election Rules, 1961, enabling the Commission to use VVPAT with electronic voting machines.. v For the first time Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) with Electronic Voting Machines was used for the Noksen Assembly seat in Tuensang district of Nagaland in September, 2013. v In a ruling in October 2013, the Supreme Court (SC), in the case of Subramanian Swamy vs Elec-
tion Commission of India (ECI), has held that VVPAT (Vote Verifiable Paper Audit Trial) is “indispensable for free and fair elections” and thus, directed the ECI to equip Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) with VVPAT systems to “ensure accuracy of the VVPAT system”. v The Supreme Court directed the Election Commission to introduce a paper trail in EVMs, in a phased manner, for the next general elections in 2014, saying it will ensure free and fair polls. The apex court also directed the Centre to provide financial assistance for introducing Vote Verifier Paper Audit Trail (VVPAT) system. v In pursuance of the Supreme Court order, the Election Commission ordered VVPAT systems to be used in the New Delhi assembly for the upcoming assembly elections. The pilot project was launched across 186 polling stations that will cater to 1,18,596 registered voters.v The Election Commission also instructed the Mizoram election department to use Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail System (VVPAT) system in 10 Assembly constituencies during recently held elections to the 40-member state legislature. VVPAT was also introduced in one constituency each in Delhi (as mentioned above), Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan. The Commission will need about 14 lakh VVPAT machines to introduce the system in all 543 Lok Sabha constituencies during forthcoming Lok Sabha elections . However, the Commission is apprehensive that so many machines can be produced and testing them in such a short duration of time. The Commission feels that covering all Parliamentary constituencies may not be possible before 2019 General Elections. The Commission has stated that approximately 1500 crore Rupees would be required for procuring VVPAT and installing it at all polling booths across the country .
Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer Disclaimer : The contents and comments appearing in any article published in this paper are purely the personal opinion of the writer