Ludhiana, September 27
With patients suffering from dengue fever pouring in at CMCH, the total number of patients who were admitted with lower limit of platelet count (60,000) has gone up to 110.

The hospital in order to accommodate suspected dengue cases has added 20 more beds in addition to the existing 530 beds which is likely to be increased in coming days.

CMCH medical superintendent Kamal Massih said as per serology test the patients were ‘confirmed dengue cases’. “But they are referred to as suspect cases following the civil surgeon’s instructions that they would only be confirmed after the test at Civil Hospital, Ludhiana,” said Massih.

The hospital in order to meet with the demand of platelet and other components of the blood today organised a blood donation camp at Abohar. Also, the hospital is regularly organising camps within and outside the premises to keep a stock in the blood bank in case of emergency.

The fact that patients are not restricted to any particular pocket of Ludhiana points towards the inability of the municipal corporation and the anti-larvae wing to control the breeding of Aedes mosquitoes in the city.

What is more shocking is the revelation of the CMCH authorities that more than 90 per cent of the dengue positive cases are from within the city and not from the peripheries.

However, the district health authorities in their official reports have restricted the number of confirmed cases to 200 in Ludhiana district. S.P. Sharma, civil surgeon, Ludhiana, stated that with change in the weather the situation would improve in coming days.

Contrary to the dengue deaths reported from a few villages and Ludhiana, district health officer S.S. Dhir said, “There has been no dengue death as far as the department’s reports are concerned. The one, which was reported yesterday, too, is not because of dengue.

Residents of Valipur village had staged a dharna in front of the deputy commissioner’s office last week against Ludhiana civil surgeon for having reported just two out of nine deaths, thereby depriving seven families from the government compensation.

Ludhiana, September 27
Thinking seriously about the garbage dumps scattered all over the city, municipal commissioner G.S. Ghuman has come up with a proposal to give the contract of lifting garbage to a private firm.

Talking about the proposal, Ghuman said the municipal corporation spends around Rs 70 lakh on garbage disposal. “We are trying to find private contractors who wish to take up the project within the same amount and work efficiently,” he said, adding that he had called a few companies next week for discussing the idea.

Earlier, Ghuman held a meeting with the municipal officials and pulled them for their lazy attitude.

He said he had directed the B&R department to complete the patchwork on all main roads till October 5 and roads of all wards by October 25. Besides this, Ghuman has directed all officials to take care of quality while pursuing the work.

“I have asked the joint commissioner to inspect the work on his own and if he finds any irregularities he should bring it immediately to my notice,” added the municipal commissioner. He also directed the road contractors and engineers to leave some unpaved space and a slant while making roads so that water could be drained out easily.

Blaming dyeing units and absence of storm sewers as one of the major cause for choked drains and stagnant water in various part of the city, he said Rs 241-crore sewerage system would help solve the problem. He said the sewerage department would execute the project and tenders had been already invited for it. He added that storm sewers and tubewells would be a part of the project.

Reacting strongly to the illegal hoardings put up across the city, the commissioner said the drive for removing them was already on and none of them was being spared. Once the drive is over, the next target would be hoardings in residential areas.

As far as rise in dengue cases were concerned a schedule has been chalked out for fogging and the CMO told about this move, added the municipal commissioner.

Ludhiana, September 27
The Income Tax Department has short listed at least 2,100 cases belonging to various categories, including salaried employees and professionals, who have submitted their returns by March 31 this year for scrutiny.

Panic has gripped assessees as the department has after issuing notices sought details of income and expenses for the year. More such notices would be sent in this month itself, said sources.

Assessees are making a beeline to tax professionals and are busy gathering their records, including banking transactions for the purpose.

The cases have been selected on the directions of the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). Cases of income under various heads- salary, business and profession, other sources, house property have been selected.

While scrutinizing the returns, the IT department goes through details of transactions conducted by an assessee during the year. From account statements of banks to investments, household expenses, high value transactions, there is an in depth scrutiny.

The process is undertaken in order to keep a check on tax evasion. However, tax professionals said the newly- introduced IT return forms were not as simple as the previous Saral forms, which put assessees at a higher risk of making mistakes in their returns and hence, facing the wrath of the IT department.

“Unlike ‘Saral’ forms, that were short and simple, in case of these ITRs assessees are required to write details of various transactions. A minor mistake could put an assessee in trouble. In most cases people find it tough to keep as many details as the department requires. People should not panic but they need to be very careful while filing their returns,” said Jatinder Khurana, president, Taxation Young Lawyers Association.

Ludhiana, September 27
In a brutal incident a man allegedly strangulated his wife, put her body in a trunk and fled away. The body was found today morning.

The accused Rajesh Kumar (30), a migrant from Uttar Pradesh, was living with his wife’s family for the past five years in New Namdav Colony at the Tibba road.

The incident occurred yesterday, when Rajash Kumar and his wife Rinku (26), had an altercation over some issue. Rajesh Kumar, in a fit of rage strangulated his wife Rinku.

He, later, wrapped her body in a piece of cloth, put it in the trunk and fled away.

According to the family, the couple was not in cordial terms with each other as Rajesh, used to idle around and used to insist his wife to work instead. For the past a few days he was forcing the family to shift to Fathegarh Sahib as well.

According to the police, Rinku’s father Ramma Kant was out of town and her mother, Samri, had gone to the market when the incident took place. Samri was surprised to find the house open after she returned from the market. “I thought both of them might have left for Fathegarh Sahib. In the morning, while I was searching for money kept in a trunk that I found my daughter’s body inside the trunk,” said the mother.

She immediately informed the police about the incident.

Ludhiana, September 27
Stiff competition, attending different tutions, swimming sessions and rehearsing for the extra curricular activities etc, life of a modern kid these days is busy like a bee.

Initially it was only the pressure of studies and sports, but now with the number of reality shows coming up on television, parents also want their kids to take part in these and excel. Interestingly, today's smart kids do not feel the pressure and contrary to this they are enjoying their newly found stardom and the other plus point they find in taking part in these shows is that their confidence level rises up, as such shows prepare them to take up the challenges of life.

We approached the participants and judges at the Classic Studio, Mumbai, on the sets of a reality show 'Ek se badkar ek, chota packet bada dhamaka' being aired on Zee TV. In bright contract to what is the general belief of putting extra pressure on the kids, Kunal Kohli, the film director and one of the three judges for the show, believes that such competitions do not prove burden on children. “There are competitions at school level and children also participate in them. Competition is always good as long as it is healthy. Such shows increase the confidence level of kids and also help them in moving ahead,” Kunal said.

Agreeing to the view, other judge Rakhi Sawant, says that though she had scolded the girl on the sets but it was only to show her the right path. “Being a judge, it is my duty to tell them the difference between the right and the wrong, so that they do not commit mistakes in future.”

Rohanpreet Singh, one of the participant in the show and runner up of the another reality show ‘Sa Re Ga Ma little champs’, said that initially he was a very shy but participating in the reality shows have enhanced up his confidence level. “Now I am confident while performing on the stage and feel no hitch while giving a shot before a large audience.”

Taxing upon the financial security that these reality shows give to the children, Anu Kapoor, another judge of the show adds that it was after sixteen years of hard struggle that he made his own house but for these children their basic struggle is finished at the starting level itself. “The kids are earning three lakhs per show, so while the time they grow up they are already securing their future", he adds.

Mandi Ahmedgarh, September 27
Showing the least concern towards WHO slogan ‘Know your risk’, the state health department has planed nothing to create awareness about heart problems and preventive measures on the occasion of World Heart Day that falls tomorrow.

Though a large number of NGOs and government-sponsored agencies are operating in the area, none of them have come forward to create awareness about the causes and consequences of the world’s largest killer, claiming 17.5 million lives annually.

There are an estimated 45 million patients of coronary artery diseases in India. By 2020, heart diseases will account for one-third of all deaths.

Ludhiana Tribune has found out that none of the government agencies or NGOs of the area had initiated any action to observe World Heart Day.

Ceremonies are restricted to managements of some multi-speciality hospitals. Emphasising on the need for awareness about the causes and risks of cardiovascular diseases, Dr J.S. Grewal, a cardiologist, said the government should have taken up the responsibility to create awareness among people. “Though we have been regularly organising seminars and workshops on World Heart Day, the information does not percolate to the target groups. However, the attempt has been to prepare the medical fraternity for fighting with the problem,” he said.

Appreciating that the western community had started understanding the need of preventive measures to control fast increasing incidences of cardiovascular ailments, Dr Naved Aslam, a heart specialist, called upon office bearers of medical, social and educational organisations to launch coordinated move to educate people about the adverse effects of changed lifestyle. “Our food habits, stressed daily routine and increased dependence on machines has resulted in high incidences of obesity and cardiovascular ailments,” said Dr Aslam. He stressed that the youth should be asked to shun junk food and take regular exercise.

Dr Sunit Hind said the increase in incidences of heart diseases was due to rising urbanisation, increased life expectancy, poor diet, environmental pollution and a number of health, economic, social, behavioural and demographic reasons.

Officials in the state health department at various levels, however, showed ignorance about the day that was first observed in 1999. Though National Rural Health Mission authorities were learnt to have sent email messages to state government health centres to observe the annual day, a senior health department functionary, on the condition of anonymity, said the day was not listed among other annual functions to be celebrated by the department.

Ludhiana, September 27
A number of “warning rallies” against drug addiction were organised across Punjab by the state unit of the Bharatiya Kisan Union (BKU) today with an aim to warn drug peddlers to stop the illegal trade and also to create awareness about the deadly evil among the masses.

These rallies were flagged off from Samrala, Khanna, Machhiwara and Sahnewal in Ludhiana district, from Nabha and Devigarh in Patiala district and from five towns of Sangrur district, among others.

The rallies, in which people from all walks of life participated, covered a number of villages before culminating at the starting point. The participants carried posters, banners and raised slogans against drug addiction and distributed literature to the villagers, warning drug peddlers against the practice.

“The problem of drug addiction is widespread in Punjab. Almost 75 per cent of our youth have fallen victim to it and the reason is easy availability of drugs. The rallies were a warning to the drug peddlers and chemists who sell drugs like smack and heroin over the counter. Such people are playing with the lives of innocent youth. Through these rallies, we have issued a warning to these people that if they don’t stop the illegal trade, they will be dealt with an iron hand,” said Balbir Singh Rajewal, president, Punjab unit of the BKU.

He further said the list of traders and chemists selling drugs without licence would be made and handed over to the government. “However, if in spite of that the government fails to take any action against the traders, we will take it upon ourselves to expose and punish the guilty,” Rajewal added.

The rallies drew huge crowds, especially from the women folk. Youth, children and even the aged villagers came forward to pledge their help in curbing the menace.

Doraha, September 27
Dr Kuldip Singh Kalsi, a lecturer of GNN College Doraha, who has been elected as a senator to Punjab University from lecturers’ constituency, is eager to fight for the cause of students and the teachers, associated with the university.

In his capacity as a senator, he is keen to work for the cause of the students and teachers.

As far as the matters related to teaching community are concerned, he said, “I will strive to work for the strict implementation of the service conditions specified in the university calendar. Also, in order to check mushrooming of the education shops, I will strive to work for getting new affiliation granted to the deserving colleges.”

Further, 10 per cent deduction of provident fund, maternity leave of six months and paternity leave of 15-days, appointing GCTA and PCCTU nominee a representative in the senate, exempting women staff members from double duties during annual examinations, granting voting right to the librarians at the university level, reserving seats or granting fee concession to teachers wards, reconsidering the assessment criteria and move to internalise part one courses, are some of the prime demands which Dr. Kuldip said he would strive to get implemented by maintaining a rapport with the university.

Dr. Kuldip apart from being an executive committee member of the Punjab and Chandigarh College Teachers’ Union has served as the general secretary and district president of the union too.

Ludhiana, September 27
Perturbed over the “adamant attitude” of Punjab Agricultural University vice-chancellor M.S. Kang over his secretary’s appointment recently, the non-teaching employees are all prepared to give an ultimatum to the authorities in coming days. In case the VC fails to revert the appointment orders within seven days, the non-teaching employees will go on strike from second week of October, they threatened.

One of the members of the union on the condition of anonymity disclosed that certain members had met the VC yesterday, but he refused to listen to their demand.

“Many other brainy employees can understand the vision of the VC. We are all here for the prosperity of the farm varsity. Till now, the post has been managed by the employees. If we will start focussing our attention towards such trivial issues, how will the university run? The demand of non-teaching employees is justified since the administrative post of the secretary to VC is meant for employees other than officers as teachers,” said the union member. The objections have been raised against the recent appointment of Dr P.P.S. Lubana, a teacher, as the secretary to VC.

The employees complained since the post belonged to them, they will not let it be taken by the faculty member. It is for the first time in the history of PAU that a teacher has occupied the post, said employees.

Ludhiana, September 27
The students of Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) called off their strike after detailed discussions with the vice-chancellor, Dr M.S. Kang, which lasted till 8 pm yesterday.

The students ended the strike hoping that authorities will come-up with results within a stipulated time.

Talking to The Tribune, Punjab Agricultural University Students’ Association (PAUSA) president, Gurpreet Singh Brar, said authorities had agreed upon facilitating a meeting of students with the state government for filling-up the vacant posts. He said that an assurance was given by the authorities to improve the condition of the placement cell by providing better infrastructure.

The main demand of reopening of canteen in students' home had also been met by officials. Brar said the canteen would become functional within next week. 15 more benches for students’ home would be allotted within fortnight. The gate between hostel number 1 and 2 would also be opened for the students. The management also agreed to extend the library timing for the students.

Besides, renovation work in all the hostels will start by the end of this semester. “Contract allotment and other formalities have been put on a fast track. Temporary PAUSA office will be allotted within a week and a permanent office will be constructed at students' home within next four months. VC has also agreed on the demand of displaying proceedings of deans' committee meeting regarding matters related to students on the notice boards,” said Brar.

Ludhiana, September 27
Supplementary exams of various classes (undergraduate and postgraduate) of Panjab University, Chandigarh, started at different centres here today. A majority of students, who took the supplementary exams, were of English language, and could not score even the passing marks (35) in their first attempt. Since the majority of them came from rural backgrounds, faculty blamed "poor foundation" provided to them in the government schools.

One of the superintendents at a local college, on condition of anonymity disclosed that more than 40 per cent students, who had come to take the compartment exams, were of general English. He further added that it was always the students of English, whose percentage was high during the supplementary exams.

Ramanjeet Singh (name changed), a student of BA I, said the government schools lacked qualified teachers of English and the students had to depend on them. Secondly, for general Punjabi, there were two papers. If the students could not perform well in their first paper, they work hard in the second paper to compensate. But in English, there was just one paper that too was set by the examiners, who kept in mind the calibre of the city students.

"How can we compete with the students, who are Convent educated? The students with the rural backgrounds must be provided extra coaching of English. We too feel bad when we perform poor in English but we feel helpless. We can not understand the language well", he said.

Prof K.B.S.Sodhi, former president PCCTU and former member of the Board of Studies in English of PU, Chandigarh, said the government should initiate additional courses for the tutors. The teachers paid much attention towards spoken English whereas the written part was mostly neglected. "But students have to write in the paper. They will perform better if they can write well. The writing skills need to be improved. As compared to other subjects, English is much easier", said Prof Sodhi. 

Mandi Ahmedgarh, September 27
The local police has busted a gang of thieves that had been active in the area for the past one year. Most of the members have been arrested from different places during the past few days and goods worth Rs 3 lakh have also been recovered from their possession. Those arrested have been identified as Harkesh, alias Raju, the kingpin, Pammi Sachdeva and Rajwant Singh, alias Sanjay of the local town. The suspects were nabbed on the basis of information provided by neighbhours of the victims.

Recovered goods included jewellery stolen from house of Amrit Lal of ward No. 4 and Mohammad Dilshad of the Dehliz road area and a motorcycle stolen from Malerkotla town. More items of jewellery and a motorcycle, the suspects admitted to have stolen was to be recovered from other members of gang who were still at large.

According to the Malerkotla DSP, the thieves had succeeded in evading arrest, as a few victims had not reported the thefts to the police. “Kingpin of the gang was identified after Amrit Lal lodged a complaint of theft at his house and his neighbhours provided relevant information about the kingpin’s activities to the police. Intensive investigation led to the recovery of goods worth Rs 3 lakh from three thieves,” the DSP said.

The suspects used to enter houses on the pretext of catching pigeons. A member of the gang used to stay outside the house. He used to alarm his fellows, on mobile, in case owners used to enter their houses. 

Ludhiana, September 27
After leading by three goals, Mohali squandered away the advantage and just managed to squeeze past Moga B 4-3 in a group B match of the u-14 section in the Punjab State Weekend Hockey Tournament for boys being organised by the Punjab Sports Department at the Prithipal Singh Memorial AstroTurf Stadium of Punjab Agricultural University campus, here today.

Mohali players gained an early lead when in the fourth minute of the encounter, Sahil Davas scored a field goal. They enhanced the lead in the 17th minute through a penalty corner conversion by Harpreet Singh. He again found the target in the 28th minute to increase the lead 3-0.

After changing ends, Moga B lads, exerted pressure over their rivals. They managed to sneak into the citadel time and again. Eventually, their repeated forays yielded result. In the 36th minute they forced a penalty corner and Sukhdeep Singh made no mistake to roll the ball into the net to reduce the margin 3-1. In the very next minute, Sukdeep converted another penalty corner to make it 2-3.

Stung at this reverse, Mohali players went all out and Sahil Davas was on the target in the 44th minute which made it 4-2. Baljeet Singh of Moga B converted a penalty corner successfully in the 46th minute to read the score sheet 3-4.

In the second match of the day in group B (u-16), Sardar Santokh Singh Freedom Fighter Hockey Academy, Roomi overwhlmed Grewal Hockey Academy, Kila Raipur 5-0. During break, the winners were leading by three goals.

Roomi lads surged ahead in the 7th minute through a field goal scored by Pawandeep Kumar. Three minutes later, Harminder Singh sounded the board to make it 2-0 while Gagandeep Singh scored in the 28th minute to consolidate the lead.

In the second half, Sukhwinder Singh struck in the 44th minute to further cement the lead and fifth goal came off Pawandeep Kumar's stick in the 51st minute, which completed the rout.

The last match of the day was played in group A of u-14 section between Malwa Khalsa Senior Secondary School Hockey Wing, Ludhiana and Faridkot A in which the former romped home victorious without being challenged 7-0.

Navdeep Singh and Taranbir Singh scored a brace each while Harmandeep Singh, Amanbir Singh and Gurinder Singh contributed one goal each to enable their team to register a comprehensive 7-0 victory.