Thursday, July 31, 2008
Music industry shocked by ‘Voice of India’ Ishmeet’s death
Remembering “Voice of India” contest winner Ishmeet Singh as a “wonderful”, “down-to earth” and “sincere” person, members of the Indian music industry said they were shocked by the drowning of the “dynamic singer” in the Maldives.The 19-year-old, from a middle-class family in Ludhiana, Punjab, had gone to the Maldives for a promotional event with the music company with which he had a contract.
The singer left Mumbai Tuesday morning for the Maldives, where he was to perform Aug 1. However, he drowned Tuesday in a swimming pool at a beach resort.
Music composers Jatin Pandit and his brother Lalit Pandit, who co-judged Ishmeet on “Voice of India” (VOI), told reporters they were shocked by the news of Ishmeet’s death.
Jatin said: “I am shocked. He was an innocent boy. Ishmeet always had it in the back of his mind that he had to be the ‘VOI’ winner. I had even been to his house in Ludhiana and had food with his family. I know everyone in his house. I can’t believe he is no more.
To read the full article, click here..
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: contest, innocent, Ishmeet Singh, Lailt Pandit, Ludhiana, Maldives, Music composers Jatin pandit, Music Industry, Punjab, reality show, shock, swimming pool, Voice of India, winner
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Mist clears a bit over victim’s SIM card
Clearing a layer of mist over the alleged conspiracies that led to the killing of Abdul Rehman Padder in a fake encounter two years ago, a police sub-inspector today deposed before the court that during the course of interrogation one of the accused in the killing had disclosed to him a place where the accused had hidden some articles including a SIM card of the victim.
The statement of the witness was heard and recorded by the principal district and session’s judge Husnain Masoodi. The then Sub Inspector Batmaloo police station Arshad Ahmad (witness) said, “After arresting Farooq Ahmad Guddoo Assistant Sub Inspector Special Operation Group (SOG) camp Sumbal in connection with Abdul Rehman Padder fake encounter case, during the course of interrogation, he disclosed a place where he had hidden some articles of Nazir Ahmad Decka (another fake encounter victim) including the SIM card of Abdul Rehman Padder.”
The witness stated that at Guddoo’s instance a brief case containing some articles of Nazir Ahmad Decka and a SIM card of Abdul Rehman Padder were recovered from the identified site.
To read the full article, click here..
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
The statement of the witness was heard and recorded by the principal district and session’s judge Husnain Masoodi. The then Sub Inspector Batmaloo police station Arshad Ahmad (witness) said, “After arresting Farooq Ahmad Guddoo Assistant Sub Inspector Special Operation Group (SOG) camp Sumbal in connection with Abdul Rehman Padder fake encounter case, during the course of interrogation, he disclosed a place where he had hidden some articles of Nazir Ahmad Decka (another fake encounter victim) including the SIM card of Abdul Rehman Padder.”
The witness stated that at Guddoo’s instance a brief case containing some articles of Nazir Ahmad Decka and a SIM card of Abdul Rehman Padder were recovered from the identified site.
To read the full article, click here..
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: Abdul Rehman Padder, clears, fake encounter, FIR, Ganderbal Police Station, mist, SIM card, victims, witness
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Nepali Maoists spotted by locals in Orissa
Nepali Maoists have infiltrated into India with the locals spotting such cadres in Orissa’s Malkangari district bordering Chhattisgarh where 53 security men and two civilians were killed in the last three weeks.
“We have received information about infiltration by Nepali maoists, but nothing can be confirmed unless they are nabbed,” a senior intelligence officer said, adding that Nepal sometime ago had indicated to India that a section of maoists could cross over.
While 38 personnel, including 36 commandos of the elite Greyhound Force of Andhra Pradesh, were killed while sailing through the Balimela reservoir on June 29, 17 other Orissa police personnel died in a landmine blast triggered by suspected ultras on July 16.
“Though Malkangiri is identified as the hot-bed of maoist activities, never before such a large number of people have been killed by ultras,” Director General of Police Gopal Chandra Nanda said.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
“We have received information about infiltration by Nepali maoists, but nothing can be confirmed unless they are nabbed,” a senior intelligence officer said, adding that Nepal sometime ago had indicated to India that a section of maoists could cross over.
While 38 personnel, including 36 commandos of the elite Greyhound Force of Andhra Pradesh, were killed while sailing through the Balimela reservoir on June 29, 17 other Orissa police personnel died in a landmine blast triggered by suspected ultras on July 16.
“Though Malkangiri is identified as the hot-bed of maoist activities, never before such a large number of people have been killed by ultras,” Director General of Police Gopal Chandra Nanda said.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: Andhra Pradesh, Balimela reservoir, civilians, commandos, elite Greyhound Force, landmine blast, locals, Malkangari district, maoists, Nepal, Nepali Maoists, orissa, security men
Monday, July 28, 2008
16 blasts rock Ahmedabad
A day after a series of explosions rocked the IT city of Bangalore, sixteen blasts went off in Ahmedabad Saturday evening. The areas targeted are Raipur, Maninagar, Isanpur, Naroda, Bapu Nagar, Sarkhej, Harkeshwar and Diamond Market. Initial reports suggest that 10 people have been killed and 50 others injured.
All blasts went off in a span of half an hour starting 6:45 pm.
The first two blasts were reported in Chakla area of Raipur and Narole Circle of Maninagar.
Then another blast was reported from Saranpur area of Raipur. Soon after another followed in Maninagar again.
Maninagar also happens to be the constituency of Chief Minister Narendra Modi.
Bapu Nagar and Diamond Market are in the Old City area which is very congested particularly on Saturday evening. There are reports that splinters from the explosion have set off small fires in some areas.
A seventh explosion took place in Sarkhej. Though details are not known, there are reports that the bomb here went off in CNG bus.
To read the full article, click here..
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
All blasts went off in a span of half an hour starting 6:45 pm.
The first two blasts were reported in Chakla area of Raipur and Narole Circle of Maninagar.
Then another blast was reported from Saranpur area of Raipur. Soon after another followed in Maninagar again.
Maninagar also happens to be the constituency of Chief Minister Narendra Modi.
Bapu Nagar and Diamond Market are in the Old City area which is very congested particularly on Saturday evening. There are reports that splinters from the explosion have set off small fires in some areas.
A seventh explosion took place in Sarkhej. Though details are not known, there are reports that the bomb here went off in CNG bus.
To read the full article, click here..
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Bapu Nagar, blasts, blasts rock, Diamond Market, Harkeshwar, injured, injuried, Isanpur, killed, Naroda, Sarkhej, Serial Bomb blasts
Friday, July 25, 2008
Curfew imposed in Jammu, 24 injured in violence
Curfew was clamped by the district administration in the winter capital here today as a precautionary measure after police “forcibly” shifted the body of a man who committed ‘suicide’ yesterday at hunger strike venue of Shri Amarnath Yatra Sangarsh Samiti Parade, to his native town Bishnah for cremation in the week hours of this morning.
In the aftermath of police action, violence broke out in some parts of the city and at Bishnah in which over two dozen persons including dozen cops were wounded. The protestors torched police vehicle, entered in ding dong battle with police, burnt tyres and effigies of various Kashmiri leaders, raised road blockades, indulged in stone pelting incidents while the police resorted to cane charge and even fired tear smoke shells upon the protestors at Bishnah and Jammu.
Amid protests and violence, the body was consigned to flames by the family and relatives at Bishnah this afternoon.
To read the full article, click here..
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
In the aftermath of police action, violence broke out in some parts of the city and at Bishnah in which over two dozen persons including dozen cops were wounded. The protestors torched police vehicle, entered in ding dong battle with police, burnt tyres and effigies of various Kashmiri leaders, raised road blockades, indulged in stone pelting incidents while the police resorted to cane charge and even fired tear smoke shells upon the protestors at Bishnah and Jammu.
Amid protests and violence, the body was consigned to flames by the family and relatives at Bishnah this afternoon.
To read the full article, click here..
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: battle, Bishnah, cremation, curfew, flames, hunger strike, incidents, jammu, kashmiri leaders, protest, SDPO, Shri Amarnath Yatra Sangarsh Samiti Parade, suicides, violence
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Sachin, Laxman on threshold of catching record
Yet another record beckons batting maestro Sachin Tendulkar, who is already on the verge of becoming the highest scorer in Test cricket. However, for this particular record, the Little Master will have stiff competition from within the team when the Test series against Sri Lanka starts on Wednesday.
Two of India’s safest slip fielders Tendulkar and Laxman are both co-incidentally just two catches short of joining their other team-mate Rahul Dravid in the 100 catches club.
When asked about this record, Sachin was caught unawares. “Quite frankly, I was not even aware that I was just two catches short of reaching the fielding milestone. It would be very, very special,” the master-blaster was quoted as saying by a newspaper
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaer, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Two of India’s safest slip fielders Tendulkar and Laxman are both co-incidentally just two catches short of joining their other team-mate Rahul Dravid in the 100 catches club.
When asked about this record, Sachin was caught unawares. “Quite frankly, I was not even aware that I was just two catches short of reaching the fielding milestone. It would be very, very special,” the master-blaster was quoted as saying by a newspaper
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaer, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: catches club, catching record, competition, Indian Crcket players, Laxman, Rahul Dravid, Sachin Tendulkar, slip fielders, Sri Lanka, Test Cricket
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Trust Vote: 275, Not Out
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Tuesday night won the confidence vote with a comfortable margin of 19, putting to an end the controversy of his government coming into minority after withdrawal of support by the Left parties.
The trust vote was also seen as the majority of the Lok Sabha giving green signal to the government to go ahead with operationalisation of the Indo-US nuclear deal by signing the IAEA’s safeguards agreement and securing the NSG clearance.
As many as 275 voted in support of the confidence motion and 256 against, Speaker Somnath Chatterjee announced after the physical verification of the voting slips that became necessary because of the electronic voting not giving correct picture.
The electronic voting could not give the correct picture, though it too showed the UPA government winning the trust vote. It showed only 487 voting, 253 of them in support, 232 against and two abstaining.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
The trust vote was also seen as the majority of the Lok Sabha giving green signal to the government to go ahead with operationalisation of the Indo-US nuclear deal by signing the IAEA’s safeguards agreement and securing the NSG clearance.
As many as 275 voted in support of the confidence motion and 256 against, Speaker Somnath Chatterjee announced after the physical verification of the voting slips that became necessary because of the electronic voting not giving correct picture.
The electronic voting could not give the correct picture, though it too showed the UPA government winning the trust vote. It showed only 487 voting, 253 of them in support, 232 against and two abstaining.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: BJP, confidence vote. margin, Congress Leaders, IAEA, Left Parties, Lok Sabha, nuclear deal, Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, Speaker Somnath Chatterjee, support, trust vote, verification, voting slips
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Bus to move every week across Line of Control
Despite “tough talking” and chill in talks owing to accusations, India and Pakistan on Monday announced a series of Kashmir-related confidence building measures (CBMs).
At the end of day-long foreign secretary level talks here, both sides announced to increase the frequency of two bus services from fortnightly to weekly from next month and introduce triple entry permits with effect from October 1. They also decided to allow a maximum of 60 persons per crossing.
The designated authorities will also start exchanging applications for permits by e-mail from October 1 that will be required to be backed up by hard copies.
Also from October 1, clearance will be processed within a week in case of emergencies like death of close relative across LoC, but the stay in such cases would be limited to maximum seven days.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
At the end of day-long foreign secretary level talks here, both sides announced to increase the frequency of two bus services from fortnightly to weekly from next month and introduce triple entry permits with effect from October 1. They also decided to allow a maximum of 60 persons per crossing.
The designated authorities will also start exchanging applications for permits by e-mail from October 1 that will be required to be backed up by hard copies.
Also from October 1, clearance will be processed within a week in case of emergencies like death of close relative across LoC, but the stay in such cases would be limited to maximum seven days.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: authorities, bus services, CBMs, frequency, Hyderabad House, india, Indian Foreign Secretary, jammu, kashmir, LoC, pakistan, Pakistan Foreign Secretary, permits, weekly
Friday, July 18, 2008
Majority want Jammu and Kashmir people to decide fate
Contrary to general perception that public opinion in India and Pakistan is against disturbing the status-quo, thereby a roadblock in the way of resolution of issue of Jammu and Kashmir, an opinion poll conducted by a reputed international agency has revealed that a majority of people in both countries want resolution of Kashmir issue as per the aspirations of people of that state.
People in both nations have also shown a readiness to have the Kashmiri people decide their fate. If a majority of all Kashmiris were to choose independence, a majority of Indians and Pakistanis would find such independence at least tolerable, said the poll. In India the opinion poll was conducted by a reputed agency C-Voter, while in Pakistan A. C. Nelson gathered views on behalf of the WorldPublicOpinion.org poll.
It reveals that half or more of Indian and Pakistani population is open to a range of possible outcomes for Kashmir. On neither side is there strong majority opposition to Kashmir becoming an independent country or dividing Kashmir between Pakistan and India.
”Given the deep roots of the conflict over Kashmir, it is surprising that the conflict does not muster clearly polarised majorities in Pakistan and India, falling in line behind their governments’ positions,” comments Clay Ramsay, research director of WorldPublicOpinion.org, a project run by the University of Maryland, United States.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
People in both nations have also shown a readiness to have the Kashmiri people decide their fate. If a majority of all Kashmiris were to choose independence, a majority of Indians and Pakistanis would find such independence at least tolerable, said the poll. In India the opinion poll was conducted by a reputed agency C-Voter, while in Pakistan A. C. Nelson gathered views on behalf of the WorldPublicOpinion.org poll.
It reveals that half or more of Indian and Pakistani population is open to a range of possible outcomes for Kashmir. On neither side is there strong majority opposition to Kashmir becoming an independent country or dividing Kashmir between Pakistan and India.
”Given the deep roots of the conflict over Kashmir, it is surprising that the conflict does not muster clearly polarised majorities in Pakistan and India, falling in line behind their governments’ positions,” comments Clay Ramsay, research director of WorldPublicOpinion.org, a project run by the University of Maryland, United States.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: C-Voter, decide, fate, india, Jammu and Kashmir, Kashmir issue, Kashmiri people, majority, pakistan, population, public opinion, United States, University of Maryland
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Suicidal tendencies more among men in Valley
Men in Kashmir tend to be more suicidal than women and more susceptible to suicidal tendencies than the latter. Social factors have determined the widespread occurrence of suicides and conflict related developments have accelerated their rate, here.
Age and number of children showed positive correlation with suicidal behaviour whereas relationship, education and marital status were found negatively associated with this behaviour.
A dramatic increase in suicides in Kashmir since the last 12-15 years was revealed by the study, “Suicidal behaviour in Kashmir and its clinical implications” conducted by Dr. M. A. Margoob, renowned psychiatrist, Ashaq Hussain and Fayaz “Ahmad, Post-Graduate department of Zoology, University of Kashmir.
Earlier suicides were either totally absent or very insignificant but now on an average 15 to 16 people kill themselves every month, reported the study. Suicides in Kashmir, the study said, may be observed in a broader context of social dynamics and may not be analysed in relation to development of militancy alone, but with respect to social, cultural, economic, psychological, political, educational, demographic and other relevant factors as well.
Referring to the vernacular papers, it said that 185 cases of suicides were reported but, it added, experts believe that only 40 percent of the cases are reported.
To read the full article, click here..
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Age and number of children showed positive correlation with suicidal behaviour whereas relationship, education and marital status were found negatively associated with this behaviour.
A dramatic increase in suicides in Kashmir since the last 12-15 years was revealed by the study, “Suicidal behaviour in Kashmir and its clinical implications” conducted by Dr. M. A. Margoob, renowned psychiatrist, Ashaq Hussain and Fayaz “Ahmad, Post-Graduate department of Zoology, University of Kashmir.
Earlier suicides were either totally absent or very insignificant but now on an average 15 to 16 people kill themselves every month, reported the study. Suicides in Kashmir, the study said, may be observed in a broader context of social dynamics and may not be analysed in relation to development of militancy alone, but with respect to social, cultural, economic, psychological, political, educational, demographic and other relevant factors as well.
Referring to the vernacular papers, it said that 185 cases of suicides were reported but, it added, experts believe that only 40 percent of the cases are reported.
To read the full article, click here..
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: economic, higher education, kashmir, men, Political, psychological, social dynamics, Suicidal behaviour, suicides, tendency, University of Kashmir
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
If they throw one, we will hurl ten stones, says Omar
National Conference (NC) is still indecisive about its support during the vote of confidence motion to Dr Manmohan Singh’s government in Lok Sabha on July 22.
But, the party decided not to remain calm any more over the attacks on its leaders and workers and has made up its mind to give a befitting reply to those who are having such intentions. A visibly angry NC president Omar Abdullah roared and said that the martyrs graveyard like situation would not be allowed to reoccur and threatened that “if one stone is hurled towards us we will throw back 10 stones.”
The core group of NC met here today to take its decision over the nuclear deal issue and vote of confidence by the Manmohan Singh government. After the meeting senior party leader Abdul Rahim Rather addressed media persons.
He said, “Keeping in view the present political situation and the agitation over the land transfer issue, the core members expressed their suggestions, and we have unanimously decided to authorise our party president Omar Abdullah to take a final decision whether or not to support the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government at the centre.”
To the read full article, click here..
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
But, the party decided not to remain calm any more over the attacks on its leaders and workers and has made up its mind to give a befitting reply to those who are having such intentions. A visibly angry NC president Omar Abdullah roared and said that the martyrs graveyard like situation would not be allowed to reoccur and threatened that “if one stone is hurled towards us we will throw back 10 stones.”
The core group of NC met here today to take its decision over the nuclear deal issue and vote of confidence by the Manmohan Singh government. After the meeting senior party leader Abdul Rahim Rather addressed media persons.
He said, “Keeping in view the present political situation and the agitation over the land transfer issue, the core members expressed their suggestions, and we have unanimously decided to authorise our party president Omar Abdullah to take a final decision whether or not to support the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government at the centre.”
To the read full article, click here..
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: indecisive, Lok Sabha, media, National Conference, nuclear deal issue, Omar Abdullah, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, suggestions, UPA, vote
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
Fishes in Valley bearing brunt of poor policies
With department of fisheries lacking proper policies and provisions regarding management of water bodies and conservation of natural water resources, fish population in valley is at the receiving end. Experts rue that under such conditions fish is going to become an endangered species in the valley, if the present trend of disturbing its natural habitat continues.
“Government is not serious about the management of precious water resources in the state. And as a result some important streams like Kokernag, Verinag, Nambal, Akkad, Madhumati, Kulgam and Erin are at the brink of vanishing from the fisheries map. There is continued pouncing of people on these rivers and most of the rivers have been converted into drains,” said an expert in the field and senior officer from directorate of fisheries department, on conditions of anonymity.
He added that the mismanagement of rivers and destruction of natural water resources is resulting in ecological imbalance and effects on the status of the water bodies, which he believes can have a direct impact on the development of fish and fisheries.
To read the full article, click here..
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
“Government is not serious about the management of precious water resources in the state. And as a result some important streams like Kokernag, Verinag, Nambal, Akkad, Madhumati, Kulgam and Erin are at the brink of vanishing from the fisheries map. There is continued pouncing of people on these rivers and most of the rivers have been converted into drains,” said an expert in the field and senior officer from directorate of fisheries department, on conditions of anonymity.
He added that the mismanagement of rivers and destruction of natural water resources is resulting in ecological imbalance and effects on the status of the water bodies, which he believes can have a direct impact on the development of fish and fisheries.
To read the full article, click here..
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: destruction, effects, fish population, fisheries department, Fishes, poor policies, rivers, species, Valley, water resources
Monday, July 14, 2008
58% of population obese by 2030
With waist lines increasing rapidly around the world, a group of researchers at Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine predict that by 2030, almost 58 percent of the world’s population will be overweight or obese.
The data examined in “Global Burden of Obesity in 2005 and Projections to 2030,” authored by Tanika. Kelly, a doctoral candidate at Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, claims that almost one-third of the world is already considered over-weight or obese.
The research holds a lot of importance, as it is the first to pool systematically peer reviewed data from over 100 countries into one comprehensive global estimate for obesity.
The researchers compiled results from population based studies that were published in peer-reviewed journals from January 1990 through August 2007. Overall, the researchers employed 72 national, 22 multi-site and 14 regional studies from 106 countries, covering approximately 88 percent of the world’s population.
The study reveals that till the year 2005, approximately 23.2 percent of the world’s adult population was over-weight and 9.8 percent was obese. More or less 937 million adults were overweight and 396 million were obese, and if similar trend continues the number of overweight individuals will double to 2.16 billion by 2030 and the number of obese adults will grow up to 1.12 billion during the same period of time.
“The high prevalence of overweight and obesity, combined with their concomitant health risks makes it a particularly relevant worldwide public health challenge,” the researchers said. Public health initiatives have already been starting in many developed countries –unfortunately such programs are absent in the developing nations.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
The data examined in “Global Burden of Obesity in 2005 and Projections to 2030,” authored by Tanika. Kelly, a doctoral candidate at Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine, claims that almost one-third of the world is already considered over-weight or obese.
The research holds a lot of importance, as it is the first to pool systematically peer reviewed data from over 100 countries into one comprehensive global estimate for obesity.
The researchers compiled results from population based studies that were published in peer-reviewed journals from January 1990 through August 2007. Overall, the researchers employed 72 national, 22 multi-site and 14 regional studies from 106 countries, covering approximately 88 percent of the world’s population.
The study reveals that till the year 2005, approximately 23.2 percent of the world’s adult population was over-weight and 9.8 percent was obese. More or less 937 million adults were overweight and 396 million were obese, and if similar trend continues the number of overweight individuals will double to 2.16 billion by 2030 and the number of obese adults will grow up to 1.12 billion during the same period of time.
“The high prevalence of overweight and obesity, combined with their concomitant health risks makes it a particularly relevant worldwide public health challenge,” the researchers said. Public health initiatives have already been starting in many developed countries –unfortunately such programs are absent in the developing nations.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: adults, challenge, Global Burden of Obesity in 2005, health risks, obesity, overweight, population, Projections to 2030, Tanika
Friday, July 11, 2008
Ceasefire violation: India, Pakistan exchange fire at Line Of Control
In second incident of its type, Indian and Pakistani forces today exchanged fire on the Line of Control (LoC) in Krishna Ghati area of Poonch district blaming each other for violation of five years long ceasefire.
While the Defence spokesman Col S D Goswami said that the Pakistani troops opened indiscriminate firing on forward Indian Post in Krishna Ghati as Indian forces were engaged in preventing a major infiltration bid nearby, Pakistani Military spokesman Major General Athar Abbas in Islamabad said that Indian troops fired mortars and small arms on a Pakistani forward post in Battal area of Rawalakot sector in the afternoon.
“Pakistani troops opened indiscriminate firing on a forward post along the LoC in Krishna Ghati belt in Poonch district late this afternoon,” defence spokesperson Col S D Goswami said, adding that no one was injured in the firing.
Goswami added that posts on the LoC came under a barrage of fire from the opposite Pakistani positions, but said Indian troops did not retaliate and maintained restraint.
“Army foiled an attempt by a big group of unidentified militants to breach the LoC. However, later a few kilometers away from the spot, Pakistani troops resorted to heavy firing at a Border out Post (BoP) in the same sector between 2.20 PM and 2.30 PM,’’ Defence spokesman maintained.
Militants were forced to retreat to Pakistani territory”, spokesman said, adding that a protest was being lodged with the Pakistani authorities over the unprovoked firing at a flag meeting of local commanders.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
While the Defence spokesman Col S D Goswami said that the Pakistani troops opened indiscriminate firing on forward Indian Post in Krishna Ghati as Indian forces were engaged in preventing a major infiltration bid nearby, Pakistani Military spokesman Major General Athar Abbas in Islamabad said that Indian troops fired mortars and small arms on a Pakistani forward post in Battal area of Rawalakot sector in the afternoon.
“Pakistani troops opened indiscriminate firing on a forward post along the LoC in Krishna Ghati belt in Poonch district late this afternoon,” defence spokesperson Col S D Goswami said, adding that no one was injured in the firing.
Goswami added that posts on the LoC came under a barrage of fire from the opposite Pakistani positions, but said Indian troops did not retaliate and maintained restraint.
“Army foiled an attempt by a big group of unidentified militants to breach the LoC. However, later a few kilometers away from the spot, Pakistani troops resorted to heavy firing at a Border out Post (BoP) in the same sector between 2.20 PM and 2.30 PM,’’ Defence spokesman maintained.
Militants were forced to retreat to Pakistani territory”, spokesman said, adding that a protest was being lodged with the Pakistani authorities over the unprovoked firing at a flag meeting of local commanders.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: Ceasefire violation, Defence, exchange, fire, india, Krishna Ghati, LoC, militants, Pak istan, Pakistani forces, Poonch district, Rawalakot sector
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Young love often marred by abuse
A surprising number of young teens in the United States are in physically and emotionally abusive dating relationships, according to a survey released on Tuesday.
Dating relationships and dating abuse can begin as early as age 11, underscoring the need for early education on the subject, the survey found.
“The extent of verbal and emotional abuse in early dating is much higher than we had anticipated,” said Dr.Elizabeth Miller of the University of California Davis, who took part in a news briefing in Washington announcing the findings.
The online survey, commissioned by Liz Claiborne Inc., included 1,043 so called “teens,” those aged 11-14, 523 parents of teens and 626 teens aged 15-18.
It found that one in five 13 to 14 year olds say they know someone their age who has been physically abused, and nearly half know someone who has been verbally abused in a relationship.
The data also suggest that sex in these early relationships increases the risk of abuse. Of teens, who had sex by age 14, 33 percent said they had been kicked, punched, choked, slapped or hit, and 58 percent said they had been verbally abused.
That compared to about 10 percent of all teens aged 15-18 who were physically abused by a partner, and 29 percent who had been verbally abused, the survey found.
“There is definitely something in the data that suggest to us early onset of sexual activity is not a good thing, that it is clearly associated with dating violence,” Miller said in a telephone interview.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Dating relationships and dating abuse can begin as early as age 11, underscoring the need for early education on the subject, the survey found.
“The extent of verbal and emotional abuse in early dating is much higher than we had anticipated,” said Dr.Elizabeth Miller of the University of California Davis, who took part in a news briefing in Washington announcing the findings.
The online survey, commissioned by Liz Claiborne Inc., included 1,043 so called “teens,” those aged 11-14, 523 parents of teens and 626 teens aged 15-18.
It found that one in five 13 to 14 year olds say they know someone their age who has been physically abused, and nearly half know someone who has been verbally abused in a relationship.
The data also suggest that sex in these early relationships increases the risk of abuse. Of teens, who had sex by age 14, 33 percent said they had been kicked, punched, choked, slapped or hit, and 58 percent said they had been verbally abused.
That compared to about 10 percent of all teens aged 15-18 who were physically abused by a partner, and 29 percent who had been verbally abused, the survey found.
“There is definitely something in the data that suggest to us early onset of sexual activity is not a good thing, that it is clearly associated with dating violence,” Miller said in a telephone interview.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: abuse, education, Elizabeth Miller, marred, parents, United States, violence, Washington
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Curfew lifted in Jammu
After eight days of unrest in three districts of Jammu region, normalcy returned here today. The administrations of all three districts including Jammu, Kathua and Samba today lifted the curfew restrictions after reviewing the over all situations and imposed section 144 CrPc as preventive measure. Curfew was relaxed at several places in Bhadarwah today as well twice in a day and no untoward incident was reported.
Barring few protest demonstrations, the curfew relaxation announced by the district administration today passed off peacefully and no untoward incident was reported from any part of winter capital also.
However, several shopkeepers opened their establishments well before the decision to suspend the strike for a week was taken by Baba Amarnath Sangharsh Samitian amalgam of over thirty political, social and religious organizations.
Authorities extended the curfew restrictions to fourteen hours duration from 6 AM to 8 PM, which passed off peacefully in the city and its outskirts.
The normal life was affected partially for ninth consecutive day today as commercial transport remained off the road.
However, Auto Rikshaws started plying on the Jammu roads since morning giving a sigh of relief to the Vaishno Devi pilgrims and other outsiders who were stuck in the city of temples due to curfew restrictions.
During curfew relaxation, people rushed to shops to purchase essential commodities and long queues were seen for petrol and diesel at the filling stations while the banks and Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) also observed heavy rush of commuters as most of the people had exhausted their money.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Barring few protest demonstrations, the curfew relaxation announced by the district administration today passed off peacefully and no untoward incident was reported from any part of winter capital also.
However, several shopkeepers opened their establishments well before the decision to suspend the strike for a week was taken by Baba Amarnath Sangharsh Samitian amalgam of over thirty political, social and religious organizations.
Authorities extended the curfew restrictions to fourteen hours duration from 6 AM to 8 PM, which passed off peacefully in the city and its outskirts.
The normal life was affected partially for ninth consecutive day today as commercial transport remained off the road.
However, Auto Rikshaws started plying on the Jammu roads since morning giving a sigh of relief to the Vaishno Devi pilgrims and other outsiders who were stuck in the city of temples due to curfew restrictions.
During curfew relaxation, people rushed to shops to purchase essential commodities and long queues were seen for petrol and diesel at the filling stations while the banks and Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) also observed heavy rush of commuters as most of the people had exhausted their money.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: ATM, Baba Amarnath Sangharsh Samitian amalgam, Bhadarwah, commodities, curfew, Governor N N Vohra, jammu, jammu bandh, Kathua, pilgrims, purchase, Samba, suspended
Monday, July 7, 2008
Fallen trees rot in Lidder, many more felled to provide timber for Yatra Langars
A large number of deodar and kail trees fallen (on ground) due to the snowfall over the years are decaying in waters of Lidder river and the forests of Pahalgam since years.
And ironically loads of fresh timber is being supplied to scores of make shift Langars serving food to pilgrims.
The locals have expressed serious concerns over what they alleged plunder of green gold under the garb of supplying firewood to Langars of pilgrims.
This correspondent during his visit to Pahalgam, Chandanwari and Pishu Top found horse loads of seized up logs being carried to Sheeshnag, Baltal and Panjtarni posts en-route the Amarnath cave.
At Chandanwari, Langars serving food to pilgrims were also found consuming green timber which they said was supplied to them by the contractors. It needs mention that the forest division Lidder Pahalgam has to supply about 4000 quintals of fallen firewood for the consumption of Langars during the two month long yatra.
Every day scores of horse loads of timber are carried to Langars spread all over Pahalgam.
The locals, most of them Gujjars living in upper reaches of Chandanwari, Frislan, Manzlan and Laderwat, alleged that the department of forest in connivance with contractors was promoting the ‘illegal felling’ of green gold. They maintained that under the garb of supplying the firewood to Langars, few contractors and officials of the department were smuggling timber.
“The contractors in connivance with the officials of forest department were promoting the sale of green timber to langars and other needy people. They (contractors) are patronized by the officials of department for carrying on this unlawful practice,” alleged, a Chandanwari local.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
And ironically loads of fresh timber is being supplied to scores of make shift Langars serving food to pilgrims.
The locals have expressed serious concerns over what they alleged plunder of green gold under the garb of supplying firewood to Langars of pilgrims.
This correspondent during his visit to Pahalgam, Chandanwari and Pishu Top found horse loads of seized up logs being carried to Sheeshnag, Baltal and Panjtarni posts en-route the Amarnath cave.
At Chandanwari, Langars serving food to pilgrims were also found consuming green timber which they said was supplied to them by the contractors. It needs mention that the forest division Lidder Pahalgam has to supply about 4000 quintals of fallen firewood for the consumption of Langars during the two month long yatra.
Every day scores of horse loads of timber are carried to Langars spread all over Pahalgam.
The locals, most of them Gujjars living in upper reaches of Chandanwari, Frislan, Manzlan and Laderwat, alleged that the department of forest in connivance with contractors was promoting the ‘illegal felling’ of green gold. They maintained that under the garb of supplying the firewood to Langars, few contractors and officials of the department were smuggling timber.
“The contractors in connivance with the officials of forest department were promoting the sale of green timber to langars and other needy people. They (contractors) are patronized by the officials of department for carrying on this unlawful practice,” alleged, a Chandanwari local.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: Amarnath pilgrims, Amarnath yatra, Chandanwari, fallen, food, Langars, lidder, Lonely Tree, Pahalgam, smuggling, snowfall, timber
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Diana’s letters, cards to be auctioned
There is a letter from Diana as a new bride, saying thank you for flowers in her room the day before her wedding. There is a photograph of Princes Charles and William at an alfresco lunch under a shady tree. And there are years and years of Christmas cards and the occasional request for gin cocktails from the Queen Mother.Billy Tallon’s collection of royal paraphernalia, that goes on sale Saturday, is an engaging insight into the life of the British monarchy.
Tallon joined the Royal Household when he was just 15 and over the next 51 years, he became a trusted and valued senior servant. When he died last year, he left a vast, carefully preserved collection of cards, letters, photographs and presents the Royal Family had given him over the years.
“This is a lovely collection of quite amazing bits and pieces,” said Janet Canon at Reeman Dansie, the auction house that is running the sale. Lots of people are flying in from overseas, especially from America and Canada, to take part in the auction.
Tallon’s long-term partner Reginald Wilcox also worked as an under butler in the Royal Household, and Tallon inherited his memorabilia when he died. Saturday’s auction, includes some of Wilcox’s possessions. The items are being put up for sale by members of Tallon’s family.
Tallon, known affectionately as “Backstairs Billy,” devoted his whole life to the Royal Family. He was especially attached to the Queen Mother, for whom he was chief steward. His estate includes a handwritten note the Duke of Kent sent him after the Queen Mother died, saying: “I know all too well how grievous must be her loss to you and what an enormous gap she will leave in your life.” Canon said the 700 lots are valued at an estimated 250,000 pounds (US$500,000) but that the collection is likely to sell for a lot more.
To read the full article, click here..
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: American, auctioned, British monarchy, cards, Christmas card, cocktails, Diana, letter, London, Princes Charles, Queen Mother, Royal Family, Royal Household
Friday, July 4, 2008
Win-win situation for Jammu: Azad
Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad today maintained that the government decision about the revocation of land transfer order to Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB)was all win-win situation for Jammu and it should have been celebrated.
Chief Minister was addressing a hurriedly convened press conference at his residence here this evening taking forward the “damage control exercise” initiated by his party colleagues sent as emissaries in Jammu since yesterday.
Chief Minister stated, “I was expecting that Jammuites, whom last year in June I had lauded for their magnanimity and patience as “Devta”, would be celebrating this cabinet decision by virtue of which the state government has taken the responsibility of ensuring security of Amarnath pilgrims besides providing logistic support for smooth pilgrimage. But we’re shocked with this reaction.”
Azad maintained that vested elements hell bent on disturbing the secular fabric of the state are found both in Kashmir and Jammu and they have tried to use the issue of diversion of land to Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) for their nefarious designs.
“I appeal to the common masses who are peace-loving not to get misled by a handful people who are using religion, caste and regionalism for dividing the people to take political mileage.” Explaining the government’s stand on the entire issue, Azad said that the initial cabinet decision to divert the forest land to SASB was taken after protracted correspondence for three years between SASB and Forest department. He said that the ownership rights of the land remained with the Forest department and it was only diverted to SASB for building temporary shelters.
To read the full article, click here....
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Chief Minister was addressing a hurriedly convened press conference at his residence here this evening taking forward the “damage control exercise” initiated by his party colleagues sent as emissaries in Jammu since yesterday.
Chief Minister stated, “I was expecting that Jammuites, whom last year in June I had lauded for their magnanimity and patience as “Devta”, would be celebrating this cabinet decision by virtue of which the state government has taken the responsibility of ensuring security of Amarnath pilgrims besides providing logistic support for smooth pilgrimage. But we’re shocked with this reaction.”
Azad maintained that vested elements hell bent on disturbing the secular fabric of the state are found both in Kashmir and Jammu and they have tried to use the issue of diversion of land to Shri Amarnath Shrine Board (SASB) for their nefarious designs.
“I appeal to the common masses who are peace-loving not to get misled by a handful people who are using religion, caste and regionalism for dividing the people to take political mileage.” Explaining the government’s stand on the entire issue, Azad said that the initial cabinet decision to divert the forest land to SASB was taken after protracted correspondence for three years between SASB and Forest department. He said that the ownership rights of the land remained with the Forest department and it was only diverted to SASB for building temporary shelters.
To read the full article, click here....
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: Amarnath pilgrims, cabinet decision, Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, jammu, land transfer, peace, people, revocation, SASB, shelters
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Army called out, curfew extended to Samba, Bhaderwah
A day after the cur few was imposed in Jammu city and its outskirts, the authorities today clamped curfew in Samba and Bhaderwah towns after the eruption of high intensity violence including grenade attack on protestors and communal clash between two community members at Bhaderwah and Samba this afternoon.
Altogether, 70 persons including a dozen cops were injured in fresh clashes between police and protestors while over 150 Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP), Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal activists including senior BJP leaders Dr Nirmal Singh, Baldev Singh and Sat Pal were arrested by police for defying curfew restrictions from different parts of Jammu region.
Reports said that 21 persons including two security personnel were injured in firing and stone pelting when the agitated protestors clashed with the members of the majority community in Seri Market of Bhaderwah town. The clash reportedly began after the protestors including the activists of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) entered into a verbal duel with a shopkeeper at Yogi Mohalla when they forcefully tried to close his shop.
Soon after the incident, the locals of both the communities came across and started pelting stones on each other for 45 minutes near Seri Market, said reports, adding, “Panic gripped in the entire area when the PSO of Municipal Committee Bhaderwah Javed Azad opened fire in the area.” Finding the situation going out of control, police opened fire to disperse the mob. One CRPF jawan identified as S K Sahu and one protestor identified as Manjeet Singh received bullet injuries in the incident.
Reports further maintained that a grenade was lobbed by an unidentified person on protestors in which three persons identified as Arvind Kumar, Pammi Kumar and Satish Chander received critical injuries. Reports said that seven critically injured protestors were airlifted to Government Medical College Jammu where their condition was stated to be critical.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Altogether, 70 persons including a dozen cops were injured in fresh clashes between police and protestors while over 150 Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP), Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) and Bajrang Dal activists including senior BJP leaders Dr Nirmal Singh, Baldev Singh and Sat Pal were arrested by police for defying curfew restrictions from different parts of Jammu region.
Reports said that 21 persons including two security personnel were injured in firing and stone pelting when the agitated protestors clashed with the members of the majority community in Seri Market of Bhaderwah town. The clash reportedly began after the protestors including the activists of Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) entered into a verbal duel with a shopkeeper at Yogi Mohalla when they forcefully tried to close his shop.
Soon after the incident, the locals of both the communities came across and started pelting stones on each other for 45 minutes near Seri Market, said reports, adding, “Panic gripped in the entire area when the PSO of Municipal Committee Bhaderwah Javed Azad opened fire in the area.” Finding the situation going out of control, police opened fire to disperse the mob. One CRPF jawan identified as S K Sahu and one protestor identified as Manjeet Singh received bullet injuries in the incident.
Reports further maintained that a grenade was lobbed by an unidentified person on protestors in which three persons identified as Arvind Kumar, Pammi Kumar and Satish Chander received critical injuries. Reports said that seven critically injured protestors were airlifted to Government Medical College Jammu where their condition was stated to be critical.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: Bhaderwah, BJP, bullet, cops, CRPF, curfew, eruption, injuries, jammu City, outskirts, protestor, Samba, VHP, violence
Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Challan against girl for securing admission in AMT college
After completion of investigations, Crime Branch has produced challan against a girl who managed admission in AMT School on the basis of fake Permanent Resident Certificates (PRCs).
Official reports said that Crime Branch Jammu has produced challan against Babli Devi, daughter of James Masih of Siker Masia, district Gurdaspur at present Rajpura, yehsil Hiranagar district Kathua in case FIR number 5 of 2006 under section 420, 467, 468 and 471RPC.
Brief facts of the case are that anonymous complaint was received in Crime Branch Jammu wherein it was alleged by the complainant that Babli Devi actually belongs to Siker Masia District Gurdaspur (Punjab). She has obtained fictitious State Subject certificate and is presently under going training of Staff Nurse in GMC Jammu.
On the receipt of said complaint preliminary verification was initiated in Crime Branch Jammu. During the course of enquiry it was revealed that Babli Devi has undergone training of Staff Nurse and Midwifery at AMT School in session 1999 to 2000. She got selected in said course by providing fake PRC reportedly to have been issued from DC office Kathua vide number 623 /PRC of 1985-86 dated February 9, 1996 while as per record of DC Kathua PRC vide number 623/PRC of 1985-86 dated April 4, 1996 stands issued in the name of Titru, son of Boadha of village Sanoora tehsil Hiranagar.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Official reports said that Crime Branch Jammu has produced challan against Babli Devi, daughter of James Masih of Siker Masia, district Gurdaspur at present Rajpura, yehsil Hiranagar district Kathua in case FIR number 5 of 2006 under section 420, 467, 468 and 471RPC.
Brief facts of the case are that anonymous complaint was received in Crime Branch Jammu wherein it was alleged by the complainant that Babli Devi actually belongs to Siker Masia District Gurdaspur (Punjab). She has obtained fictitious State Subject certificate and is presently under going training of Staff Nurse in GMC Jammu.
On the receipt of said complaint preliminary verification was initiated in Crime Branch Jammu. During the course of enquiry it was revealed that Babli Devi has undergone training of Staff Nurse and Midwifery at AMT School in session 1999 to 2000. She got selected in said course by providing fake PRC reportedly to have been issued from DC office Kathua vide number 623 /PRC of 1985-86 dated February 9, 1996 while as per record of DC Kathua PRC vide number 623/PRC of 1985-86 dated April 4, 1996 stands issued in the name of Titru, son of Boadha of village Sanoora tehsil Hiranagar.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: AMT college, Babli Devi, challan, Crime Branch Jammu, enquiry, fake PRCs, girl, GMC, investigation, jammu, produced, Punjab, training, verification
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Vohra to Chief Minister : Prove majority by July 7
Governor N N Vohra today asked the chief minister Ghulam Nabi Azad to prove majority on the floor of the Jammu and Kashmir state legislative assembly by July 7.
A spokesman of Raj Bhawan said Vohra sent a letter to Azad in this connection. "Governor in a letter addressed to the chief minister has asked him to prove majority on the floor of the house on any date not later than July 07, 2008 in keeping with established conventions of parliamentary democracy," he added.
Vohra asked Azad to prove majority since PDP had pulled out from the coalition government and also withdrawn support to the government. After the PDP's move the government was reduced to minority.
Earlier, chief minister in a letter to governor had offered to prove his majority in the legislative assembly any time the governor decides.
Azad said although he continues to enjoy the support of the majority of members he was ready to prove it on the floor of the house in keeping with the highest traditions of parliamentary democracy and to dispel any misgivings on this account.
Chief minister added that following the withdrawal of support to his government by the PDP, a constituent of the ruling coalition, he continues to enjoy the support of majority of the members and was ready to prove it on the floor of the house any time decided by the governor.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
A spokesman of Raj Bhawan said Vohra sent a letter to Azad in this connection. "Governor in a letter addressed to the chief minister has asked him to prove majority on the floor of the house on any date not later than July 07, 2008 in keeping with established conventions of parliamentary democracy," he added.
Vohra asked Azad to prove majority since PDP had pulled out from the coalition government and also withdrawn support to the government. After the PDP's move the government was reduced to minority.
Earlier, chief minister in a letter to governor had offered to prove his majority in the legislative assembly any time the governor decides.
Azad said although he continues to enjoy the support of the majority of members he was ready to prove it on the floor of the house in keeping with the highest traditions of parliamentary democracy and to dispel any misgivings on this account.
Chief minister added that following the withdrawal of support to his government by the PDP, a constituent of the ruling coalition, he continues to enjoy the support of majority of the members and was ready to prove it on the floor of the house any time decided by the governor.
To read the full article, click here...
To read the ePaper, visit: http://epaper.kashmirtimes.com
Labels: Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, Governor N N Vohra, legislative assembly, letter, majority, members, New Delhi, parliamentary democracy, PDP, prove, Raj Bhawan, support
Subscribe to Posts [Atom]
