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Four jail officials booked for thrashing inmate
Ludhiana, May 10 The incident occurred three days ago, when the four officials including Assistant, Jagmail Singh and wardens Darshan Singh, Harnek Singh and Jagdev Singh, tried to frisk Paramjit Singh, facing rape charges, following information that he possessed a cell phone. The accused allegedly dared them saying he was close to the minister and if anybody touched him, he would get him transferred. This angered the authorities, who allegedly gave him a good thrashing. The mobile could not be recovered from him. Several senior functionaries of the jail intervened and saved Paramjit who was however injured and taken to a local hospital. Jail authorities have ordered an investigation into the case. Sub Inspector, Sukhbir Singh investigated the matter and indicted the four. A case of assault under sections 323, 341, 325, 506 of the IPC was registered against the four by Division No. 7 here today. Meanwhile, Paramjit was shifted to jail hospital where he is still recuperating. In the meantime Harpreet Bedi, PA to the Jail Minister Hira Singh Gabria, said Paramjit was related to him indeed but he had snapped ties with him following the rape charges against him. ‘‘I have nothing to do with him now. I have not even met him. I fail to understand, how he can use my name,’’ he said.
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Gang of inter-state vehicle thieves busted
Ludhiana, May 10 While one accused was arrested, two others managed to give the police a slip. Beside, the defence official’s car, two other vehicles were also seized from their possession. The thieves used to drive the vehicle with a fake number plate on it. The arrested accused has been identified as Arpinder Singh, alias Sonu, a resident of Shimlapuri, while Gurmeet Singh of Kishor Nagar, Ludhiana, and Joga Singh of Ropar are still at large. Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (ADCP)-II, Sushil Kumar, said the accused used to sell the stolen vehicles in different states on forged documents. Apinder Singh was working as middleman and used to charge a huge commission for cracking a deal. The ADCP said the cops acted on a tip off that the trio were arriving in the city for selling a stolen vehicle. A trap was laid near Sharu Steel. The accused were signaled to stop the vehicle. While Arpinder was apprehended, Joga and Gurmeet managed to escape. The ADCP said the gang was operating in the region since long and had earlier been by the Nawashehar police as well. “It’s to early to say anything as the accused has just been nabbed. We would interrogate him and hope that he would provide us with crucial leads as to how they managed to steal the vehicle from outside the Prime Minister’s office,” the ADCP added. Arpinder Singh, the accused who was arrested, is out on a bail. |
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Eight kids had narrow escape
Ludhiana, May 10 Throwing caution to the wind and putting the lives of hundreds of children playing at the bouncies at grave risk, the users have been luring them with attractive offers and gifts to use these. Bouncy and other inflatable games, ball pools, basic bouncies, fun slides, obstacles, aqua fun, tunnels and promotional bouncies are a common feature outside shopping malls, big stores, exhibitions, eating joints, market places, play way schools and private parties especially kids' birthday bashes. As the fun games involve children, there are a number of international guidelines issued to manufacturers and
users alike, to ensure the safety of the children. However, lack of proper awareness, urge to follow the latest trends and attract customers, and the greed to make money has led many towards indiscriminate use of the inflatables. "All I know is that the store owner bought it from Mumbai few years back from some company who was offering heavy discounts on it. And since these were the latest rage among kiddies, he decided to install it outside the store. And since then, my colleagues and I have been inflating, deflating it as well as installing it everyday," informed Vinod Kumar, a worker at a well-known city store where a bouncy is installed said. Owners of other establishments where inflatables are installed, too, said their workers do the needful required to set up the bouncy each day. They, however, expressed ignorance n the guidelines to ensure children's safety.
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Missing File
Ludhiana, May 10 The original file of the prime piece of land (plot 110-A) had gone missing after it was found that the sale deed of the plot had been got executed by the EO without getting mandatory approval of the LIT chairman. Suspecting foul play, LIT chairman Ashok Juneja had take up the matter with Punjab Local Bodies Minister Manoranjan Kalia, who in turn, had ordered an inquiry by the vigilance wing of the local bodies department. A criminal complaint was also lodged with the police in this regard. While contents of the report submitted by the vigilance cell were kept a closely guarded secret, highly placed sources in the department revealed that vigilance officials, including Chief Vigilance Officer AK Prabhakar, had found not one,
but three cases, where sale deeds were executed on the recommendation of the EO without seeking approval from the chairman. "The vigilance wing has told
the state government that the case calls for further probe as fabrication of documents is suspected in connivance with officials
concerned and subordinate staff. In the meantime, the EO should either be suspended or transferred from his present place of posting," the
sources maintained. It was reliably learnt that having got the wind of the report, the EO, with contacts in all the right places,
moved into action and managed to get himself transferred rather than being charge-sheeted or suspended. "The minister concerned is
under a lot of pressure not to pursue the case any further," BJP sources disclosed. The investigation
into the criminal case registered by the Division 5 police on the complaint lodged by the LIT chairman was also moving at a snail's pace and not much headway had been
made till now. On being asked the status of the investigation, the SHO of the police station concerned said the investigating officer in the case, ASI Harjinder Singh, was on leave and would join duty on May 12. "Only after he returns will we be in a position to tell the progress made into the investigation," he said. |
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Two sustain bullet injuries following clash
Ludhiana, May 10 The incident occurred around 5:30 pm, when two groups of outsiders clashed and fired shots. The injured were identified as Arvinderpal and Jagpal from Haryana. Mahinder Singh, their father, said his son Jagbir, a third-year engineering student, was not allowed to enter the college by a group led by Bunny of Machhiwara. Jagbir and Bunny had clashed on a previous occasion over student leadership. Due to this reason, Jagbir had not been coming to the college for the last one month. “I told him to appear in the practical examination, but he refused to visit the college following threats from Bunny. I told Arvinderpal to accompany him to college,” he said. Arvinderpal was accompanied by two of his cousins. Bunny received information that Jagbir had arrived at the college with his brothers. Following this, Bunny arrived with his men and attacked Jagbir and his brothers. Later Bunny took out a gun and shot at Arvinderpal and Jagpal. Both sustained injuries and were rushed to the DMCH. Their condition was stated to be serious, but out of danger. The Sahnewal SHO said they had received information and started an investigation. No case was registered till the time of filing of this report. |
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Boundary wall of Dugri park down again, FIR lodged
Ludhiana, May 10 Taking a serious note of the transgression, officials of the Punjab Urban Planning and Development Authority (PUDA) have lodged an FIR with the Dugri police station against unnamed persons for trespass and causing damage to government property. PUDA Additional Chief Administrator Indu Malhotra told The Tribune that no one would be allowed to cause damage to PUDA property and the law-breakers would be sternly dealt with. The boundary wall of the park, which was demolished long ago by residents of adjoining Jawaddi village, who wanted a common passage to the main road through the park, was reconstructed in the presence of senior PUDA officials, including estate officer Gurbaksh Singh, who were accompanied by heavy police force to ward off any resistance. Apprehending mischief by the rural folks, the PUDA authorities had deployed security guards as well at the spot. But apparently, those seeking common passage through the park were smarter, and managed to outwit the security guards by razing the boundary wall, as the latter went away for a short while to have dinner. Residents of the colony were both agitated and dejected. "We are back to square one, as a thoroughfare through the park will again provide an unrestricted access to outsiders into the PUDA colony and pose great security risk to them," remarked KL Khurana, a functionary of the HIG Residents Welfare Association. "It took the residents more than a year and a half to motivate the PUDA authorities to reconstruct the boundary wall. God alone knows how much more time will it take to make them raise the boundary wall once again, and then ensure that no one dares interfere with the layout plan of the colony," said another area resident. |
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Keeping fit the star way!
Ludhiana, May 10 Dietician Rujuta Diwekar has come out with a book "Don't loose your mind, loose your weight” on how Kareena has achieved the size zero. Shilpa Shetty had launched her DVD on Yoga. And now, following the league Bipasha Basu has released her DVD titled "Bipasha Basu Love Yourself--Fit and Fabulous". Bips is a fitness freak and hitting the gym is more a passion than fashion for her. These days youths are reading books, buying DVDs and joining dance classes to be in shape like the Bengali beauty. This audio-video album is based on the core idea of being strong, healthy through psycho-physical fitness. “It has got exercises relating to strength, cardio and abdomen and their three circuits. So it is an interval training, which causes fat loss even after 48 hours. It’s very scientific,” said Tisha, a postgraduate in English, who has been working out with Bipasha's DVD. The album
also contains songs, exercises and accounts by other leading actors of the industry on fitness. Dance Academy "Foot Loose" is organising a workshop on Bipasha Basu's workout session. Fifty youth, mostly girls, are attending the workshop. Vinay Verma of Footloose said he himself had attended a similar workshop in Mumbai. "If a person do these workouts properly then they can loose more than five Kg and inches. With this workout one can reduce fat from hips, thighs, abbs and arms very easily. Thanks to the television and people in the city have become obsessed for their fitness,” Vinay added. "Today’s world is full of work pressure and tensions and people need to give time to keep themselves fit. Eat and exercise well should be the mantra of life. Attaining your dream figure is easy if one remains patient and maintains a positive attitude by following regular diet regime," opines Sanjeev
Khurana, director, Magic Health Point. Khushi, a BA III year student of KCW, said she had been going to gym for the past five years but the way she feels after doing workout by following the DVD by Biapasha is more refreshing. "It is mix of aerobics and the Yoga. It energises my body and at the same time makes my nerves feel relax as well," she added. Alpana, working in a private bank, said due to tight work schedule she didn’t get time for the gym. "My only way to workout is dancing while at home whenever I get time. Initially, I use to dance on foot-tapping numbers but after I bought this DVD for doing my workout, it has worked wonders for me. Even after my session is over I feel energized and I am happy that I have lost some weight as well," she smiled. |
Schools indifferent to students playing in sun
Ludhiana, May 10 As a result, many students are found to be complaining of uneasiness, nausea, giddiness, nose bleeding, skin allergies, sun stroke and exposure everyday. Many complain that they or their friends have fainted on a number of occasions during outdoor activities in school. Numerous and repeated requests, pleas and even complaints from worried parents to respective school authorities to provide relaxation to children from outdoor activities the summer months during have fallen on deaf ears, as school authorities refuse to budge. "My daughter and many of her friends fell ill after the school forced the kids to attend a special morning assembly, which lasted over two hours. I went to the principal and requested him to give some relaxation to students from such things, considering the extreme weather conditions. But he got angry and shouted at me that while at school, the students are required to follow a code of conduct and participate in some activities as a rule and they cannot be exempted. He said such things help toughen up the kids," rued Seema Manchanda, a parent. Another parent Rahul Sarna added, "A number of requests to the school authorities to change the school timings keeping in view the hot weather, have failed to bear fruit. Not only that, the students are also made to remain outdoors in such heat, resulting in health problems. The schools should be considerate towards the students' welfare." "A number of schools in New Delhi and the NCR have begun closing earlier to provide students relief from the scorching heat. Many institutions have decided to follow changed timings till they close for summer vacation. If they can, why can't our local schools do the same?" questioned another parent Sandeep Sharma. He added that if not change in timings, the school can at least make other adjustments. "They can hold the morning assembly indoors and not allow children to play out in the sun too much," Sharma added. While a few schools have shifted to an indoor morning assembly, these, however, continue to hold lunch break, games periods and other sports and outdoors activities. When contacted, school heads denied holding outdoor activities and games for students. "We do not allow the children to go outdoors in the heat," said most of them in stark contrast to their students' complaints.
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Self-immolation bid by retiree
Ludhiana, May 10 The incident took place around 10:30 am. Mangat Ram (63), a retired employee of the municipal corporation (MC), sat in the middle of the road. He started pouring kerosene on himself. He threatened to set himself afire if his demands were not met, blocking traffic in the process. He demanded that every MC employee be insured for Rs 5 lakh and all contractual employees be made permanent. Residents rushed to stop him. Other residents informed the police, which rushed to the spot and nabbed him. It was learnt that the MC Joint Commissioner also pacified him. According to the police, he had been suffering from depression and was under treatment. No case was registered till the filing of this report.
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Freshers’ party at Guru Nanak school
Doraha, May 10 The programme started with the reciting of a ‘shabad’ by tiny tots. The new students were welcomed with the cake-cutting ceremony. The students expressed their views on Mothers’ Day and expressed gratitude for their mothers. School president Roop Brar was the chief guest. He congratulated the prize winners and their parents and guardians. Trophies and certificates were awarded to toppers and position holders. Principal DP Thakur congratulated the prize winners and asked them to work with dedication and devotion if they wished to maintain their positions. School office-bearers Balwant Singh Pangli, Tarlok Singh Jaggi, Jaswant Singh Gill, Rajinder Singh Khalsa, Harjiwanpal Singh, Satinder Kaur, Bhupinder Singh, Adarshpal Bector and Gurnam Singh were present. —
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Jatha to participate in ‘Sirhind Fateh Diwas’
Ludhiana, May 10 President of the US wing of the body Gurmeet Singh Gill, chairman Mandeep Singh Haans and vice president Harjit Singh Sidhu, who had come especially to attend the tercentenary functions, were given a rousing reception. Speaking on the occasion, Bawa informed that a massive "fateh march", which is already on way from Sri Anandpur, birthplace of the Khalsa, will reach Chapar Chiri, the place where the foundation for the first Khalsa empire was laid, today. A congregation will be held at Chapar Chiri on May 11 to commemorate the 300 years of "Sirhind Fateh diwas" (victory over Sirhind). Political leaders, academicians and religious leaders will pay tributes to saint soldier Baba Banda Bahadur during the celebrations, he added. Gurmeet Singh Gill said “Sirhind Fateh Diwas” would be elaborately celebrated in the USA and Canada and functionaries of the foundation had been deployed to make all arrangements for the purpose. Among others present on the occasion were Hardial Singh, Sadhu Singh, Bhupinder Singh Sandhu, Karnail Singh Gill, Balwant Singh Dhanoa, Ratan Singh Sherpur, Manjit Kaur, Jaspal Singh Gill, Dalbir Singh Neetu, Jaswinder Singh Happy, Dilwara Singh, Ranjit Singh, Harpreet Sidhwan, Parminder Bittu, Gurdev Singh Mallan, Surjit Singh Canada, Nirmal Kaira, Hardeep Garcha, Teja Singh Mullanpur, Gurdeep Singh Rakba, Chamkaur Singh, Vicky Bawa, Chehbar Singh and Avatr Singh.
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City Concerns
The tragic death of a seven-year-old boy by a raging bull in the city recently has once again brought the fore the issue of uncontrolled stray animals to the centre stage. Though a few lives have died due to stray bull in the past, the municipal corporation yet to wake up from the deep slumber. While residents want the bulls be taken to shelters so that they don’t turn killers, the municipal corporation often claims that they invite the ire of animal rights activists when they catch them. The civic body does not adopt any scientific system to catch them and lacks space to even provide them with a shelter. What can be done to address the issue? The Ludhiana Tribune readers chip in:-
Stray bull and dog have become a menace for the residents. There are numerous examples of people becoming victim of bull’s rage. It is not impossible to manage them. The Govind Godham Gaushala has agreed to provide shelter to the stray bull in the city. They could be lifted through a hydraulic platform without even injuring them. If implemented it would provide a much-needed relief to the residents. But every such effort needs funds. The government’s assurance for financial and medical support for maintaining such shelters is needed. It would be better if the government agencies provide finances to such organisations rather than compensating the victims’ families later on. For controlling the menace of stray dog, the best way is to sterilize them. Suggestions, in this regard, cold also be taken from experts of the College of Veterinary Sciences at GADVASU. Sunita Sharma Fix
accountability
The problem of stray cattle is becoming grim with each passing day. Minor accidents are common, but the recent death of a lad by a frenzied bull in full public view was a harrowing sight. Such horrendous incidents are bound to recur if we still remain apathetic towards this growing menace. Roads are not the arenas for bull fights. Animals, too, require space under the sky for grazing, galloping and peaceful co-existence with human beings. They love natural habitats, which we have almost eliminated. The municipal authorities must take steps to perform their duty of saving precious lives at least and take immediate steps to contain this menace. He is capable of formulating and implementing commercially viable project in collaboration with Guru Angad Dev Veterinary University. Gaushala managements, corporation authorities and the PCRs may jointly be made accountable for accidents due to stray cattle. The owners, if traceable, must be punished and fined heavily to act as deterrent. Various religious organisations may be roped in to contribute a bit for constructing gaushalas in the rural areas. People should also help in containing stray animals to these gaushalas for a pittance or otherwise. DN Sharma Stop throwing food waste
Stray animals have become big menace for the city. At times even choking the city traffic. Not only on streets we often find them on main roads. The situation worsens when they threaten residents. The solution lies not only with the administration but also with residents. Why we feed stray animals? We invite cow, bull and dogs by placing a bowl of milk and chapattis in front of our houses.People are habitual to throw waste of cooked and uncooked eatables on roadside. The same goes for the corporation as well. No steps have been taken on ground level in this regard. Population of stray animals is increasing day by day. We all know the bull and the cow are domestic animals but selfishness on the part of human being have put them on road when they become useless. Sterilisation of dogs and bull can prove helpful or put them in homes meant for stray dogs. Problem should be solved at the earliest before the situation becomes critical. Amarpreet Singh Provide
shelters
Inconvenience caused by them has always been contributing to increase in number of accidents. These animals form one of the major sources for traffic chaos and nuisance to common man. They also lead to health hazards by spreading various infectious diseases among other animals as well as humans. Such incidents have been led to irrecoverable damages to various innocent families. These issues are often gone unnoticed by the responsible municipal authorities. The corporation should learn from the past and provide as well as maintain shelters for stray animals, so as to reduce such accidents. Sonal Ghai Kill dogs having rabies
Stray animals have always been a matter of concern for the city. Be it a scene of some of the posh streets or the busy main roads they have always been seen creating havoc. But authorities concerned have failed to provide any suitable steps to this ever-increasing problem. The NGOs and the animal right activists must come forward to claim the issue. There must be a proper shelter for the stray animals like bulls away from the city. The street dogs which can spread rabies must be killed and the others sterlised time and again so that their population can be controlled. All cows, whether sick or handicapped, must be sent to cowsheds where they can be taken care of. The stray donkeys must be made to work by the corporation. In case of pigs they must be relocated far away from the city before any infection spreads. Some of these animals can be sent to zoos as well. It’s a major issue, which must be dealt properly and sincerely. Pratima Singh Maidh
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Lone Panchkula-Ludhiana Bus
Ludhiana, May 10 Most irritating perhaps is their practice of forcing the driver to leave the bus stand as per their whims and fancies. As soon as their entire “gang” of daily commuters is on board, they force the driver to start, whether or not it is the official time for the bus to leave the bus stand. On numerous occasions, the bus is made to leave the bus stand either ahead of or later than the scheduled timing. This practice leaves numerous other travellers high and dry, who plan their schedule keeping in mind the regular timings of the bus. The practice causes a lot of inconvenience to the passengers in the face of the fact that there is only one bus between Panchkula and Ludhiana. Not only this, these daily commuters are often seen bullying others for occupying “their regular seat”. Besides this, they have also issued “strict instructions” to the driver to not to leave the bus stand unless every member of their gang” is on board. Very often the conductor is seen making phone calls to some daily commuters, requesting them to hurry, as the “bus is getting late”. Many a times, the conductor is also seen attending calls from these commuters to “stop the bus” till they come. The driver often changes the route and takes the roads on way to ISBT in Sector 43, Chandigarh, in order to “pick” his daily passengers. “The practice continues unabated despite numerous protests from other commuters, who are in turn, told by the cheeky conductor to “get down if you can’t wait”. I am contemplating filing a written complaint against these daily passengers, who think the bus is their private property,” said an angry MK Mittal. Santosh Kumar, another passenger, added, “It is actually the driver’s
fault, who allows such irritating people to dictate terms to him.” When this correspondent, after facing a similar situation, threatened to complain to the authorities, the conductor told her, “I shall see who registers your complaint.” When contacted, senior officials of the Haryana Roadways admitted that such practices exist but “are difficult to curb since there is a nexus between the passengers and staff,” said a senior official on condition of anonymity. Meanwhile, Jagdeep Singh Dhanda, general manager, Haryana Roadways, refused to comment on the issue.
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International Nurses Day
Ludhiana, May 10 The theme of the workshop would be “Delivering Quality, Serving Communities: Nurses Leading Chronic Care”. The function commenced with welcome address by Anju Lata, lecturer, College of Nursing, followed by the lighting of a ceremonial lamp by principal Dr Daljit Singh. Vice-principal Dr Suresh K Sharma highlighted the issues being faced by the nursing staff in their day-to-day working. In his address, Dr Daljit Singh stressed on the importance of nurses in health care delivery system and the need for continuing education for nurses. Dr Puri mentioned that nursing was a very noble profession that required the elements of competence, courtesy and positive communication skills as an integral part of the nursing curriculum. In her tribute to Florence Nightingale, Gurpreet Kaur focused on the contribution of “the lady with the lamp”, in development of the nursing profession.
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Farewell at RIMT
Mandi Gobindgarh, May 10 It was organised at the management campus by the faculty and students. Natasha, a student, welcomed the chairman of the RIMT Group of Institutes, Dr Hukam Chand Bansal, who was the chief guest.. Rajvansh and Shanti Gurung were declared Mr RIMT and Ms RIMT, respectively. Suchet Bala and Sidharth Sabarwal were crowned Ms Gorgeous and Mr Handsome, respectively. The programme ended with the National Anthem. —
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Jazzy B, Bharti keep audience hooked
Ludhiana, May 10 Starting with his famous song “Jine mera dil luteya”, Jazzy B sang all his hit numbers to the content of people’s heart. Then followed “Koi keel sapera lae ju ga”, “kehra jam paya suram”, “Rambo-Rambo”. Audiences could not stop themselves from tapping their feets and dancing on his song “Aaya main
gaddi mod ke”. Jazzy B said, “I love coming to Ludhiana again and again because people here know how to enjoy and the response
they give after every song energizes me further.” Then came the turn of Bharti Singh of Laughter Challenge fame to tickle the funny bone of the audience. Apt in her art, she made the people laugh to their bones. Disclosing her future plans she said she would be seen in a couple of Hindi and Punjabi movies as well. “People want to get rid of their obesity but I became famous because of it and it is my future as well,” she signs off. |
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Men in khaki break the law
The police force is meant to enforce the law and bring law-breakers to book. However, in the city, it is not uncommon to come across cops violating traffic rules, or other regulations with impunity and getting away unscathed.
They have scant regard for traffic lights and road regulations while members of their own fraternity, on duty, continue to issue challans to the public for similar violations. The other day, a police constable signalled a three-wheeler to stop at a busy crossing, hopped alongside the driver and told him to move on. The driver kept telling him that it had been agreed upon by drivers at a meeting with senior police officials not to let anybody sit alongside the driver as a safety regulation. Selection blues
To celebrate Mothers’ Day, greetings and messages were exchanged among mothers. During a visit to a gift shop at the Sarabha Nagar market prior to Mothers’ Day, children and their fathers or friends were finding it hard to choose gifts for their mothers. There were about nine children looking for gifts for their mothers. This correspondent was looking for a tiffin for her daughter when an innocent voice caught her attention. Pointing to her, a cute girl, about five years of age, said to her father, “We cannot make a choice, we are confused. Another mom is standing there. Should I go to her and ask which of these three gifts does she she like the most? I am sure that she will help me choose the best gift for my mom.” She thanked this correspondent with a warm hug after she helped her. Turning them off
Clothes maketh a man! City youngsters had a taste of this fact during the recent auditions for Star Plus’ upcoming serial. The flashy look of most candidates who had come to try their luck, besides lending them a tasteless look, turned out to be a great turn-off for the production team from the channel. The creative director heading the team, soon after glancing through the room full of wannabes, turned around in despair and signalled the disappointment to his crew. The crowd was full of girls sporting flashy nail colours, no matter the colour of their dresses. A majority of the boys wore eye-catching ear studs, gaudy and cheap-looking shoes and ostentatious shirts. Their clothes proved their undoing even before their performances. Art of borrowing
The art of borrowing is mastered by a few as it requires a lot of practice to overcome the hesitation to repeatedly ask for things. Some neighbours are cool as they do not hesitate to ask for objects like tools, dishes and garden chairs as and when required. Others are extra cool as they go to the extend of borrowing eatables like ghee, almonds, onions, tomatoes and sugar. This correspondent’s aunt was fed up with her friendly neighbourhood as her next-door neighbour had the habit of asking for one thing or the other everyday. She was in for a shock when her neighbour came to ask for Bournvita for her son. Before she could give her some Bournvita in a dish, she took the whole bottle. She said, “Give the pack to me. I will take as much as I want and return it to you in the morning.” It took some moments for the poor woman to come out of her shock. Chinese invasion
Chinese goods have invaded India (see photo). This is an old story. But Chinese traders do not seem to sit over this fact. They are continuing to push goods into India. It seems that they are competing with Indian goods. Be it toys, bicycles, garments, small machines, mobile phones, fruits or vegetables, everything seems from China. Things have come to such a pass that knick-knacks, sold by vendors on the roadsides, are now from China. It is high time we act, otherwise Indian traders and industrialists will have nothing to look up to. Contributed by Kuldip Bhatia, Shivani Bhakoo, Charu Chhibber and Anshu Seth
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Hoardings abound, courtesy politicians
Ludhiana, May 10 As a matter of fact, this business has now become a scam in some municipal corporations. Politicians of all hues try to make capital out of this business. In Ludhiana, this business of unipoles has taken the shape of a big scam. Politicians and councillors are at daggers drawn. Enquiries made by the Ludhiana Tribune have revealed that the corporation earns an annual revenue of Rs 5.5 crore from unipoles and hoardings. Compared to the size of hoardings and the number of unipoles, the revenue is less, but the earnings of advertising companies and politicians are alleged to be much higher. According to official sources, three major players and half-a-dozen small advertising agencies are registered with the corporation for hiring space on hoardings. These companies are being supported by politicians and councillors, with politicians allegedly having the support of the top brass of the SAD and the BJP. When a politician of the SAD put up 30 unipoles in the city, the Mayor had objected to giving further allocation for unipoles. The politician allegedly complained to a senior party functionary, who reportedly reprimanded the Mayor. He told the Mayor that the politician would put up 300 unipoles. This politician had now put up 200 unipoles in the city, according to official sources. Legislators and councillors are also involved in this business. The general house of the corporation invariably witnesses fights among them. Politicians also get unauthorised hoardings put up without paying rent to the corporation. Huge hoardings with photographs of politicians with different slogans can be seen at important locations. Some politicians and councillors have got hoardings put up at private buildings. When owners of these building object to it, they are threatened of dire consequences. The owners approach the police, but to no avail. A senior officer of the corporation, on the condition of anonymity, admitted that councillors and politicians had employed musclemen, who would browbeat them when illegal hoardings were removed. In view of the prevailing situation, the Mayor has set up a nine-member committee comprising councillors to sort out the matter. But so far, the committee has failed to find a solution. When contacted, MC Commissioner AK Sinha said the committee had been set up by the Mayor and he would act on measures suggested by the Mayor. The corporation has a record of many scandals, but the authorities have not taken any action, thanks to political patronage enjoyed by the people involved. Some officers ensure they die here, but do not have to go out. Every time they are transferred, they manage to come back with political push-and-pull.
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Serving liquor at parties to cost more
Ludhiana, May 10 It is obligatory to get a permit from the department before serving liquor at a party, be it at a hotel, resort or marriage palace. The fee for getting a permit has been hiked from Rs 1,000 to Rs 3,000 within municipal limits, from Rs 500 to Rs 1,000 outside municipal limits and from Rs 250 to Rs 500 in rural areas. Kulwinder Singh, whose sister is getting married next month, said, “Last month, a function was organised in our family and we paid Rs 1,000 to get a licence. Now it has been hiked to Rs 3,000. We will have to pay an extra Rs 2,000 to get a permit for the marriage party of my sister. The hotel authorities do not allow us to bring the liquor from outside and charge exorbitant prices for the same.” J Khurana, a lawyer, said the department was busy collecting revenue. “The permit fee has been increased, but the department is not paying any heed to the problems faced by the general public by the opening of liquor vends in residential areas,” he said. Sachin, a regular party goer, said, “The fee may have been increased to Rs 1,500, but the hike is too much. Now every party lover has to shell out extra for getting a permit.” Parampal Singh, DETC, confirmed that the permit fee had been hiked. “The place at which the party is held and the vend from which the liquor is bought should fall under the same excise circle. Those not getting a permit will be fined,” he said.
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PAU: We value farmers’ feedback
Ludhiana, May 10 He observed that the PAU had always worked for farmers and their feedback was often given due importance while formulating reprioritised research, education and technology transfer programmes. Highlighting the recent recommendations of PAU scientists for promoting diversification of agriculture through enhancing production of fruits and vegetables and for conserving the natural resource base of the state, Dr Kang said the PAU had been the first university to take steps to help farmers exchange PAU-201 variety with other recommended ones. The Vice-Chancellor appreciated the concern participating farmers had shown about prevailing agrarian issues by sending agenda items. Open discussion and purposeful interaction between farmers and experts would be helpful in addressing the issue, he added. In his welcome address, the director, extension education, Dr MS Gill, said the meetings involving experts, farmers and representatives of state development departments were useful and such meetings would be a regular feature. He elaborated the purpose of the meeting and said agenda items forwarded by the PAU Kisan Committee as well as the Fruit and Vegetable Producers Committee were relevant, which would provide feedback to reorient programmes to serve the interests of the farming community. The agenda items drew attention to many concerns such as mixed farming, global warming, the seed rate where happy seeder was used, the cultivation of green manuring crops, the testing of the PAU-201 variety of paddy, the techniques for reclaiming brackish water, the seed availability of cotton hybrids, the incidence of foot root and blight in the Pusa-1121 variety of paddy, the sowing date of ‘kabuli’ gram, the seed production in ‘barseem’, the planting material of turmeric, the maintenance of farm machinery, the subsidies on farm tools and the nursery raising in paddy. The experts replied to these queries and a lively discussion followed. Specific queries by vegetable growers focused on vegetable seed kits, training on hybrid seed production, seed production in onion, registration of vegetable nurseries, drip irrigation, dehydration of vegetables, vegetable production machinery, impact of heat on fruit setting in tomato, healthcare and export. The vegetable scientists discussed these issues from a technical angle and noted the feedback of farmers. On the other hand, fruit growers specifically demanded tips to manage spoilage of ‘ber’ fruit by disease, cultivation of banana, decline of mango trees in the Kandi area, management of thrips and mite infestation in ‘kinnow’, net house development under the National Horticulture Mission and testing of bio-fertilisers. Dr Gill appreciated the farmers for bringing these issues to the notice of experts and for making suggestions for scientific research. The suggestions included the promotion of home gardens through involving Krishi Vigyan Kendras, organic farming, eco-friendly technologies, timely availability of agro-chemicals and promoting agro-processing units.
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Encroachments under garb of ‘green cover’
Ludhiana, May 10 Starting with temporary arrangements, the green belts are slowly being covered with permanent iron gates/grills. Top officials of the MC find it too difficult to remove these encroachments, as residents claim to be "beautifying" city. Some time ago, the authorities tried to take action to remove the grills/gates, but residents reportedly knocked the door of courts. "The court has given us instructions to remove encroachments on commercial sites first and then move towards residents. So we cannot take action unless we remove all the encroachments from commercial places/markets," said an official with the MC. The encroachments by residents are in large number outside their houses in Model Town, Model Town extension, Sarabha Nagar, BRS Nagar, Civil Lines, Pakhowal road etc. A resident of BRS Nagar M.S.Bajwa said greenery should not cause problem to anyone. "Today everyone in city is craving to get fresh air. Plants, flowers act as soothing balm. But one should not grow the greenery to grab public land. Iron gates/grills should not be allowed to be increased," said Bajwa. Many residents maintain that these permanent markings were necessary to avoid damage to plants by stray cattle and dogs. "We spent so much to make the small gardens beautiful. Gardeners are kept by owners to maintain these tastefully. If we do not protect them, stray cattle and dogs uproot everything," said Sunanda Sharma, another resident. The Additional Commissioner, MC KP Brar said the authorities were not keen to remove greenery outside residences. But narrowing public lanes by putting iron grills or gates were definitely violation. "Once we are through with encroachments removal from commercial sites, we will remove these iron gates and grills
from residential colonies," she said.
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Fake currency racket busted, five jailed
Ludhiana, May 10 Five convicts, all residents of Khanna, are: Narinder Kumar, alias Bunty of Ucha Vehra, Sonu of Satpal Mohalla Khatika, Sunil Kumar of Balmiki Mohalla, Satpal of Khatika Mohalla, Gulmohar Nagar road, and
Lokesh Kumar of Ram Nagar, Shahdra, New Delhi. Delivering the verdict, the court held that the prosecution had successfully proved the guilt of the accused beyond any doubt. Fine of Rs 2,500 was also imposed on the accused. Turning down the leniency plea raised by the convicts, the court held that their plea was devoid of merits, as they were bent upon destroying the country’ economy. The police had recovered counterfeit notes above Rs 2 lakh from their possessions along with the machinery used for them. A case under Section 489-A, B, C, D and 120-B of the IPC was registered against the accused at the Koom Kalan police station on January 1, 2008. According to the prosecution, a police party stopped Narinder Kumar and Sonu, who were going on a motorcycle. On being searched, the police recovered fake currency notes worth Rs 10,000 each from their pockets. They disclosed that Sunil Kumar and Lokesh, both accused, had also prepared the counterfeit currency notes at Saptal’s house, who was also involved in the case. They used to purchase fake currency notes worth Rs 10,000 against the original currency notes of Rs 4000. Additional Public Prosecutor Gurpeet Singh said Satpal’s house raided and counterfeit notes worth Rs 2 lakh were recovered from that premises. The police had also recovered the computer, scanner and material used for preparing fake currency notes. The government currency note press at Nashik had also confirmed in writing that the notes were fake, he added. However, the accused pleaded not guilty. They failed to lead any evidence despite availing several opportunities. But after appreciating the evidence on record, the court found them guilty.
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In a shocking revelation, it was found that none of the users of the inflatables across the city are aware about the norms governing the installation of such inflatables on the premises, forget following the rules. Shockingly, most of the users could not even tell what the "huge Mickey Mouse shaped hut" installed on the premises of their establishments was called. All they know is that for each kid that climbs up their "Mickey Mouse" makes them richer by Rs 20-80.
Speeding police vehicles with hooters on even when there is absolutely no need for those adds to the already maddening sound level on the roads. Men in khaki ride two-wheelers which have no or blank number plates.