The Tribune, Chandigarh, India

	Leaders across party lines flay move to demolish shops for widening road Say land mafia in connivance with a handful of politicians wants to grab properties Tribune News Service Amritsar, June 30 Condemning the Punjab government’s move to demolish the century-old shops around Jallianwala Bagh to widen the road to the Golden Temple, BJP national vice-president and former Health Minister Luxmi Kanta Chawla today termed it as a “reflection of what British General O’Dyer had done inside Jallianwala Bagh in 1919”. The demolition drive will displace as many as 135 traders, almost all of them tenants. Chawla was flanked by Congress MLA and vice-chairman of the National SC/ST Commission Raj Kumar Verka. Expressing solidarity with the residents and traders in the Jallianwala Bagh area, both the leaders announced to sit on an indefinite dharna from July 3. Chawla said it was the shortsightedness of the state government which wanted to implement the Jallianwala Bagh road widening scheme. She said it was the land mafia which in connivance with some handful of politicians wanted to grab the properties by displacing the residents and traders who have been doing businesses or living here for over four decades. “Some unscrupulous elements have already purchased properties in the vicinity at throwaway prices. I will take up the matter with the Punjab Chief Minister and tell him that this scheme is no more required presently when a lot of alternate road infrastructure has been developed to have a hassle-free ride to the Golden Temple and other key destinations,” she said. Verka questioned the need of spending over Rs 250 crore on constructing the elevated road leading to the Golden Temple when the government still felt that there was congestion on the road. Acting on a petition filed by Amritsar resident Manmohan Singh, the Punjab and Haryana High Court took cognisance of a massive congestion on the road opposite to Jallianwala Bagh which leads to the Golden Temple. The HC issued notice of motion to Amritsar Deputy Commissioner, Municipal Commissioner and Executive Officer of the Amritsar Improvement Trust and directed them to explain why the road widening project on this route could not be executed. In 1998, the administration had conceptualised the Jallianwala Bagh road widening scheme. According to the scheme, the 1.5 km road stretch opposite to Jallianwala Bagh till Ghee Mandi was supposed to be widened up to 40 feet so as to ease congestion on the way to the Golden Temple. The HC had also questioned the delay in the road widening project even as compensation to the tune of Rs 8.98 crore was already awarded to around 105 affected property owners on the stretch. The HC also took notice of the old buildings which were in deplorable condition on the both sides of this route. The administration had issued notice to the residents and traders to safely transport their goods to alternate safer place but due to political intervention, the authorities failed to take possession of the required land despite awarding compensation. Now after the High Court’s notice to the Amritsar administration recently, the traders were issued notice to evacuate their shops by July 5. The traders alleged that they have been receiving threatening calls every day from the land mafia which had already purchased properties behind their shops. Citing reference to the earlier Supreme Court order which directed the authorities to rehabilitate the displaced residents within a span of four months before demolishing the properties, they alleged that these orders were being overlooked by the authorities. Improvement Trust chairman Sandeep Rishi had offered the traders and residents two alternate sites to shift their businesses and residences - one at Jahajgarh and the other at Mall Mandi area on reserved rates but the traders declined to accept this offer terming it as “commercially unviable sites” and sat on a dharna. The issue Acting on a petition filed by an Amritsar resident, the HC took cognisance of a massive congestion on the road opposite to Jallianwala Bagh which leads to the Golden Temple The HC issued notice of motion to Amritsar DC, Municipal Commissioner and Executive Officer of the Improvement Trust and asked them to explain as to why the road widening project could not be executed on this route The court also questioned the delay in the road widening project even as compensation to the tune of Rs 8.98 crore was already awarded to around 105 affected property owners The authorities failed to take possession of the required land despite awarding compensation due to political intervention After the HC notice to the administration recently, the traders were issued notice to evacuate their shops by July 5
	Firm under police scanner for defrauding youth, probe on Tribune News Service Amritsar, June 30 Days after the Amritsar rural police busted a gang which duped several persons from Gurdaspur and Amritsar on the pretext of sending them to Singapore on work permit, another firm, Balaji Enterprises, has come under the scanner of the city police. The Economic Offence Wing of the police has started investigations in this connection. It has recorded the statement of over two dozen persons, from across the state. Sukhwinder Singh, in-charge, Economic Offence Wing, confirmed this. He said a case will be registered against the accused persons. Sources said a number of youths created a ruckus in the office of the firm located in the B-block market of Ranjit Avenue a few days ago. The youths alleged that the owner and manager of the firm, identified as Pardeep Kumar and Mandeep Singh, had taken thousands of rupees from them assuring to send them to Kuwait on work permit. However, the accused neither sent them abroad nor returned their money. The Ranjit Avenue police pacified the victims and sealed the office. No victim lodged a formal complaint against the accused at that time as the latter reportedly assured to return the money. The accused, however, fled from there. The case was later shifted to the Economic Offence Wing for further investigations. Sukhwinder Singh said the address given by the accused to the victim was being verified. The Economic Offence Wing in-charge said he would discuss the case with senior police officials and a case of fraud be registered against the alleged swindlers soon. In a similar instance, the Amritsar rural police had arrested two persons, including son of a police personnel, for defrauding youths. The gang operated through a firm, Diamond Enterprises, had its office in Baba Bakala. The victims were promised jobs in Singapore for an amount of Rs 40,000-Rs 70,000. After receiving money, the victims were handed over fake visa vouchers or visa permits.
	Govt hospitals charge hefty fee for parking vehicles Manmeet Singh Gill Tribune News Service Amritsar, June 30 Even as government hospitals — the Jallianwala Bagh Memorial Civil Hospital and Guru Nanak Dev Hospital — are charging just Rs 5 for medical services at their out-patient departments (OPDs), two-wheeler owners have to pay Rs 10 while four-wheeler owners are paying Rs 20 as parking fee on their premises. Patients said it is unjust for these hospitals to raise money indirectly and then claim that they are delivering services at nominal prices. Amanpreet Singh, a patient, said, "The government institutions should not charge for parking as it is part of the basic amenities they are required to provide. And if they want to charge, they should not charge more than Rs 2 for two-wheelers and Rs 5 for four-wheelers." The government hospitals earlier used to charge nominally but the rates have been increased manifold recently. The visitors also complained that the parking attendants do not take responsibility for the safety of their vehicle. A receipt given to vehicle owners at the Civil Hospital claims that parking contractors are not responsible for any damage to their vehicles. The receipt further claims that parking owners would compensate only one-fourth of the cost of a lost vehicle and that too after six months of the date of theft. "If they don't want to take any responsibility, then why are they allowed to charge hefty money? At least, three vehicles have been stolen from here in past two months," said a hospital employee. The parking area at the hospital is also too congested and many people have to park their vehicles outside the premises. Even the doctors at the hospital have been complaining of parking space crunch.
	Heaps of sand on roadsides mock admn’s ban orders Manmeet Singh Gill Tribune News Service Amritsar, June 30 Shops selling construction material in the city are making a mockery of the district administration’s ban on sale of sand on roadside. At least a dozen shops on GT Road alone are selling sand by keeping it on the roadsides. The district administration had banned the same in its orders on June 8. The orders were aimed at clearing the bottlenecks for the smooth flow of traffic, besides regulating the prices of sand. Deputy Commissioner Rajat Aggarwal had issued these ban orders under section 144 of the CrPc. Even as these sand heaps can be seen in the open, no official has cared to implement the orders in true spirit. The administration had allowed the sale of sand at only three places in district - Transport Nagar, Market Committee, Ajnala, and Grain Market, Rayya, so that a close watch could be kept over the activity of sellers. These orders, if implemented, would have also helped in checking the illegal mining of sand in the district. The residents have been complaining that sand heaps on roadsides cause a problem while driving a vehicle whenever fast wind blows. “The sand gets carried away with wind and enters eyes of drivers, especially those driving two-wheelers. This increases the chances of accident,” said Baldev Singh, a local resident. Apart from GT Road, these sand heaps can also be seen on outskirts of Amritsar city.
	Cancel panchayat polls for Liddar village, demands Cong leader Tribune News Service Amritsar, June 30 SAD's district senior vice-president Rajinder Singh Liddar has demanded the cancellation of panchayat elections in his native village Liddar. Talking to the mediapersons, he alleged that former Congress MLA from the area and his family conspired with the returning officer and got the nomination papers of their candidates rejected. He alleged that this was all done to ensure the victory of Satwinder Kaur, the mother of former Congress MLA Jasbir Singh Dimpa. Rajinder Singh, accompanied by Avtar Singh of the same village, alleged that they had filed nomination of Darshan Kaur for sarpanch and Harprit Kaur was the covering candidate. Darshan and Harprit are wife and daughter-in-law of Avtar Singh respectively. On the other hand, Satpal Kaur (wife of Rajinder Singh) and Kashmir Kaur also filed nominations for the post of sarpanch on June 24. He said on verification, no nomination paper was rejected and the list was pasted outside the election office in Rayya. He alleged that when they went to take the election symbol next day, they found the list missing and later the nomination papers of their candidates were rejected. Liddar said the returning officer tampered with the nomination papers and the made certain cuttings in order to raise objections and later got the nominations rejected of Darshan Kaur and Harprit Kaur. He said Kashmir Kaur had already withdrawn her papers. Demanding cancellation of the panchayat election from the village, he said they would boycott the polls and Satpal Kaur would not contest the elections in protest. He said a criminal case should be registered against the returning officer for tampering with the government records. Dimpa in a press statement termed the allegations as baseless. He said the rejection of the papers only benefited Rajinder himself whose wife was also in the fray. His mother was not going to be benefit in any way as there are two more Congress candidates contesting election against his mother, he claimed. He alleged that it was Rajinder himself who got the nominations of others rejected. He pointed out that in the current political scenario in Punjab, no Congressmen could even think of getting Akali candidates' paper rejected. Deputy Commissioner-cum-district election officer Rajat Agarwal said if anybody had any grievance against any returning officer they should file a petition with the election office which would be disposed of. He said nobody could interfere in the working of a returning officer at a time when the elections were round the corner.
	Transport office lacks infrastructure Staff finds it difficult to cater to an increasing number of applicants Neeraj Bagga Tribune News Service Amritsar, June 30 The District Transport Office seems to be testing the endurance of people amidst the scorching heat and sultry weather as it does not have proper shelters, fans and seats on its premises for the visitors. Reportedly, it has been becoming difficult for the staff to cater to an increasing number of applicants who visit the office for the registration of driving licences, high security number plates (HSNPs) and other works in the absence of basic infrastructure. The applicants have to stand in long queues in the open for their turn. There is only a small shed without a fan in front of the main entrance to the building for the applicants. Only a water cooler with two taps is catering to the applicants in hot weather. An applicant has to undergo a lot of grind to get the job done. Each service such as driving licence, registration number has been divided into various parts among officials for the smooth conduct of the process. But reportedly this method is creating problems for the applicants as they have to wait in separate queues for the each part of the work. Sarbjit Singh, who runs an automobile workshop at Beas, said, “Even after the 40 days of the registration, I have not received my driving licence at my address. I have to made frequent visits to the office for the same as earlier I had come to submit my form and then to get photographs clicked.” Criticising unfriendly attitude of employees, Gurjant Singh of Daburji village said employees at the transport office were never courteous and they did not shy away from using harsh words to the people. The office complex has adequate open space around the building. However, there is no seating arrangement for the visitors in the complex. District Transport Officer Lovejeet Kalsi did not pick up the call even after repeated attempts. Streamlining traffic A press release quoting the District Transport Officer stated that violation of traffic norms would not be tolerated. She warned that any auto-rickshaw operating out of the limits of the Municipal Corporation would be challaned. Buses must operate on the designated routes and any violation of the route would not be entertained.
	Star cast of ‘Fer Mamla Gadbad Gadbad’ on promotional tour across Punjab Neha Saini Tribune News Service Amritsar, June 30 Star cast of ‘Fer Mamla Gadbad Gadbad’, Roshan Prince Japji Khera and Rana Ranbir, came calling to Amritsar to promote the movie that slated for release on July 12. The team visited the Golden Temple to pray for the success of the film and later it performed at Alpha One and interacted with their fans at Café Coffee Day. Since Punjabi films have found a successful formula in confused love stories and mad caper comedies, this one too comes fresh with same ingredients. “It is a romantic comedy about a guy who uses immoral ways to fulfil his big dreams and in all this confusion, how he deals with two girls,” said Roshan Prince, the lead actor of the film. He was last seen in Sirphire and did a cameo role in Lucky Di Unlucky Story. Roshan plays an aspiring actor in the movie, his leading ladies that add to the entertaining chaos are Japji Khera and city’s own bred actor Bhanushree Mehra. Bhanu, who has worked in Telegu and Tamil films, is excited to work in a Punjabi film. “It is a different experience, where language is not an issue as being a Punjabi I am already in a comfort zone,” says Bhanu, who plays the character of Roop, Roshan’s love interest in the film. The film is directed by Rimpy and Prince. With a strong profile of directing music videos and a Punjabi film ‘Mini Punjab’ where they worked with Gurdas Mann, the duo is confident that their second movie will impress the audience. “Since every week, a Punjabi film hits theatres world-wide, it was a challenge for us to make sure that this movie stands out from the clutter. We have worked hard on the screenplay which is strong as each character has been portrayed according to its strength,” said Prince. The music of the film is already out and has been composed by Jaggi Singh. The star cast is on whirlwind tour across Punjab, Haryana and Delhi before the film hits theatres. “The audience outside Punjab too have opened up to good Punjabi films and it has become an important market to tap,” said Roshan Prince.
	Monsoon calling: Time to dress up for the rains From bags and umbrellas to flip-flops and loose tees, a variety to choose from for wardrobe Neha Saini Tribune News Service Amritsar, June 30 It is time to enjoy the unexpected pitter-patter of raindrops playing a symphony of their own on window panes, the impromptu rain dance and the usual cravings for pakoras, jalebis and a hot cuppa. We have already welcomed the monsoon and it is time to savour everything it has to offer, without fretting about the puddles or frizzy hair. Looking good during the monsoon can be quite a challenge but some ‘must haves’ could come in as handy solutions. Here are some suggestions to save yourself from a complete washout. Umbrellas This is a classic monsoon accessory born out of necessity. While the grandma’s closet still has a space for the black-pointed vintage piece, you can pick up some trendy options from the market with floral motifs, prints, polka dots and digital prints. Available in noens such as fushia, blazing reds, greens and yellows, these can brighten up your day even with the grey skies. Flip-flops Now, we know the rains can be harsh for your leather boots and fancy suede. The muck and pools of water can destroy your expensive footwear. So, choose from the light and bright options of flip-flops and plastic ballerinas available for the season. Giving your feet space to breathe and keeping them clean, they are effortless season wear at best prices. Shorts and loose tees Loose clothing ensures that you remain dry during the season. Since sporting denims or trousers during the rains seems like a sacrificial idea for your wardrobe, having a pair or two of shorts in linen or cottons is a saving grace. Waterproof bag Now, we don’t exactly need to tell you why this is an important advice as your bag carries the world for you. So, save yourself a deluge and invest in a waterproof bag to keep all important things dry during the season. Raincoats Contrary to what most adults feel, raincoats aren't just meant for children. In fact, for complete overall protection from the rain, you can't get anything better than a raincoat. It is regarded as a trustworthy monsoon accessory. You do get transparent raincoats, but the ones in bright neons will make you look better!
	Consumer forum penalises insurance company Tribune News Service Amritsar, June 30 The district consumer disputes redressal forum has said tax deducted at source (TDS) cannot be deducted on interest paid as damages and it is different for the TDS calculated as per the income tax rules while hearing a complaint filed by Prabal Vir Sood, a resident of Batala, against Oriental Insurance. The forum has directed the insurance company to pay Rs 3,00,690, along with an interest of 12 per cent per annum, to the complainant within 10 days of the passing of the order. Earlier, Prabal Vir Sood approached the forum stating that State Commission had directed the insurance company to pay Rs 1,54,000, along with interest of nine per cent. The commission had also ordered to pay a compensation of Rs 50,000 and litigation expenses of Rs 15,000 to the complainant. Sood complained that the insurance company did not pay him the amount as directed by the commission. He asked the forum to intervene praying that the company is also deducting TDS which is illegal. The insurance company stated they had sent a cheque of Rs 1,690,00 to the complainant through post but it was returned as the complainant could not be found on the said address. The forum in its orders stated that interest on the amount paid to the complainant is damages by way of interest and not interest as calculated in income tax. The forum has asked the company to pay the penal interest on the full amount, including interest on compensation and litigation expenses, to Prabal Vir Sood within 10 days of the passing of the order. The forum stated that on failing to do so action under Section 27 of the Consumer Protection Act would be initiated against the company. The forum has directed the insurance company to pay Rs 3,00,690, along with an interest of 12 per cent per annum, to the complainant within 10 days of the passing of the order. The forum stated that on failing to do so action under Section 27 of the Consumer Protection Act would be initiated against the company.
	State ministerial staff association to protest against pay anomalies Tribune News Service Amritsar, June 30 Members of the Punjab State Ministerial Staff Association will hold a protest against the state government for their demands, including correction of the anomalies in salaries of the employees. Association general secretary Jagdish Thakur said the employees would wear black badges in protest on July 8, 9 and 10 and hold gate rallies on July 15 and 16. Association president Dalbir Singh Bajwa said the association had given enough time to the state government to correct the pay anomalies. “The protest has been planned in such a way that it will not hinder the public works,” said Bajwa. He said if the symbolic protest failed to move the government, the next course of action would be chalked out on July 20. The association would not hesitate to intensify the protest and boycotting all works if their demands are not met, said Thakur.
	Coaching for Civil Services from August 5 Amritsar, June 30 The All India Services Pre-Examination Training Centre of Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) will start coaching for the preliminary and main examinations of the Punjab Civil Services and Central Civil Services from August 5 to November 22. Director Daljit Singh Arora said Rs 6,000 would be charged as fee from the general category students while the coaching would be free for the reserved category candidates. He said July 19 is the last date for the submission of forms. Admission interviews would be held on July 25. Meanwhile, the results of BBA-III, BCA-III, and BA/B Sc-III have been declared and are available on the university website, said RK Mahajan, in-charge (exams). — TNS
	Jail inmate booked for beating cop Amritsar, June 30 A jail inmate, identified as Major Singh, has been booked for beating up and tearing the uniform of a policeman deputed at the litigation cell of a local court. Head Constable Nand Lal said he had brought the accused for a hearing to the court. While returning to the jail, the accused told him that he wanted to get something from his relatives which the cop refused. The accused entered into a brawl with him after alighting from vehicle. The Cantonment police has booked Major Singh. — TNS