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Autopsy reveals doctor was murdered
Mohit Khanna
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, January 9
In a sensational development, Dr Sarabjit Singh whose badly charred body was found at his house on the Jamalpur road on Saturday and the police suspected it to be a case of suicide has now turned out to be case of murder. The postmortem report has suggested that the doctor was murdered and his body was burnt to eliminate evidence.

The report stated that the death was caused due to the slitting of throat and not because of burning. The victim was killed and then set on fire, the autopsy report stated.

Earlier, the police was conducting inquest proceedings under Section 174 of the CrPC, but following the autopsy report, the police has registered a murder case against unidentified persons.

The case took a serious turn after a relative of the victim, Dr Dyal Savroop, who works at the Civil Hospital in Balachaur, Nawanshahr, said the victim was killed and had not committed suicide. Dr Savroop, who had conducted several postmortems, made this observation after examining the wounds of the victim.

The victim’s sister Surjit Kaur, brother-in-law Charan Das and brother Narinder Singh had alleged that the place of the crime had been heavily dressed up and washed with water to eliminate evidence.

Kulwant Singh, SHO of the Jamalpur police station, said: “We are gathering call details and mobile location to find out who was present in the house when the doctor was murdered.”

Baljit Kaur, victim’s wife, has maintained that the incident took place in her absence. She had told the police that she along with her daughter had gone to the market and when they returned, they found smoke emanating from his room. She rushed to the room only to find his charred body.

She told the police that he was suffering from depression and it might have driven him to suicide. Police sources said Baljit Kaur used water to douse the fire.

Not suicide

The autopsy report has stated that the doctor’s death was caused due to the slitting of throat and not because of burning. He was killed and then set on fire.

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South, East and Gill sensitive constituencies
Shivani Bhakoo
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, January 9
Three constituencies, including Ludhiana East, South and Gill, have been declared super-sensitive for the Assembly elections to be held on January 30.

Sources in the election office said these constituencies had been declared super sensitive due to various reasons. “We have prepared our reports on the basis of regions economy, number of poor people living in these areas and those with criminal backgrounds,” an official said.

Giving details about the Gill constituency, the official said, “Though it is newest constituency, about 63 polling booths have already been declared very sensitive and sensitive by the police and the district administration. Out of the total 134 polling booths, 49 are very sensitive while 14 others come under the sensitive category. But 71 polling booths out of 134 polling booths have been declared non-sensitive.

As far as monitoring of these super-sensitive constituencies is concerned, Election Officer Rahul Tewari said: “We will cover each sensitive and very-sensitive constituency either by a micro observer or deploy paramilitary forces in large number. The entire process can even be videographed.”

A veteran city-based politician said there were chances of clashes, ruckus, and bogus-voting in highly- sensitive or sensitive booths. “A large number of migrants live in these constituencies. Many candidates, too, have shady past. The authorities need to keep a tab on the locations to avoid unruly incidents,” the politician added. 

In news for clashes

A large number of rural areas were included in the Gill constituency after delimitation. One of them was the Kila Raipur constituency. It was in the news due to factionalism in the last Assembly elections. The area usually witnesses clashes during any election. Those residing in this constituency believe that the crime rate has increased in the last two years.

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Former DCC president to contest as Independent
Our Correspondent

Ludhiana, January 9
There seems to be no end to the woes of the Congress candidate from the Ludhiana East Assembly segment, Gurmel Pehalwan. Close on the heels of the banner of revolt raised by former president of the District Youth Congress (DCC) Dimple Rana against his candidature, the former DCC president (urban) Jagmohan Sharma today not only announced to contest as an Independent, but also gave a call to the trade and industry to boycott the Congress.

Addressing a news conference here today, Sharma, who completed his second five-year term as president of the DCC (urban) only a couple of months ago, said he had been forced to resort to this step in protest against the manner in which party ticket had been allotted by the Congress leadership.

“At least a dozen trade bodies, the district unit of the Punjab Pradesh Beopar Mandal and several associations of cycle manufacturers and sellers had met earlier and decided to boycott the Congress in the coming elections for ignoring the genuine claims of these sections,” Jagmohan Sharma claimed.

“I will contest as a representative of small traders and small industry as I have been fighting for their cause throughout my life,” he said.

Charging the party leadership with ignoring loyal and dedicated workers of the party and going for those with questionable credentials, Sharma said it was unfortunate that those who had kept the flag of the party up even during the peak of militancy had been marginalised in favour of those who had defected from the party, contested elections against official candidates and thereafter had returned to the party for personal gains.

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Akali councillor Bains to back another rebel
Puneet Pal Singh Gill
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, January 9
Rebel Akali councillor Simarjit Singh Bains today said that his group would be supporting another rebel Akali leader, Daljeet Singh Grewal, also a councillor, from the Ludhiana East constituency and may not field any candidate from Ludhiana West, from where Bharat Bhushan Ashu (Congress) and Rajinder Bhandari (BJP) would be contesting.

Ranjit Singh Dhillon is the SAD candidate while Gurmail Singh Pehalwan is the Congress candidate from Ludhiana East. Former DCC (urban)president Jagmohan Sharma and former District Youth Congress president Dimple Rana have already announced to contest as Independents against Pehalwan while Daljeet Singh Grewal has announced to contest as an Independent against Dhillon.

Sources close to Simarjit Singh Bains said as both Simarjit and Ashu were friends, he might not field any candidate against him. “Earlier, there was a plan to field some candidates from Ludhiana West, but after Ashu was announced as the Congress candidate from there, Simarjit might not field any candidate and may even support him,” said sources.

But Bains said right now his group had decided only about one seat. “I have known Daljeet Singh Grewal for a long time and I am sure he is an honest and upright man. That is why, we have decided to support his candidature. The names of the other two candidates from Ludhiana West and Gill constituencies would be announced shortly,” he said.

On December 25, Bains -- when he was the district president of the Youth Akali Dal -- had announced that he would be contesting as an Independent against Cabinet minister Hira Singh Gabria. At that time, his elder brother and Shiromani Gurudwara Parbandhak Committee member Balwinder Singh Bains was the SAD candidate from the Ludhiana South constituency.

Three days later, both Bains and Balwinder were expelled from the party and Mayor Hakam Singh Giaspura was given ticket from Ludhiana South. Now, Bains and Balwinder are contesting as Independents from the Attam Nagar and Ludhiana South constituencies, respectively.

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Rebel councillors meet Amarinder in Chandigarh
Shivani Bhakoo
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, January 9
Rebel Congress councillors, who have virtually opened a front against Surinder Dawar’s candidature from the Ludhiana Central constituency, met Capt Amarinder Singh, president of the Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC), at Chandigarh today.

A councillor said on the condition of anonymity that Amarinder gave them a patient hearing and listened to their grievances. The councillors were reportedly told that their sentiments would be conveyed to the high command, but that did not necessarily mean that Dawar’s candidature would be changed.

Last evening, Vijay Inder Singla, MP and a confidant of Amarinder, met some councillors in Ludhiana. “Singla had met us. A meeting was fixed with Amarinder today in Chandigarh. We have expressed our displeasure to the president of the PPCC and he has assured us that our sentiments would be conveyed to the party high command. We are hoping that Dawar’s ticket will be cancelled. We will not succumb to any pressure on this issue,” said another councillor. 

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Close shave for drunk students as car falls into trench 
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, January 9
Two students of Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (GADVASU) had a providential escape after their car fell in a trench dug up near Aggar Nagar Chowk in the wee hours of today.

The trench has been dug up for the construction of the Ludhiana-Mullahpur expressway on the Ferozepur road.

The students have been identified as Satvir Singh and Gurtej Singh.

The incident took place when they were returning to the university after allegedly consuming liquor at an eatery located on the Ferozepur road. Satvir Singh was driving the vehicle.

According to an eyewitness, the driver was speeding and lost control of the car, which crashed into a caution signboard. The eyewitness added that if the high speed of the car led to the crash, it also probably saved their lives.

Lovedeep Singh, SHO of the PAU police station, said: “The students had a narrow escape. If they had been at a slow speed, the car would have fallen into a 20-ft trench containing iron rods that were protruding. Due to the high speed, the car ‘flew’ to a cemented platform in the trench, saving the lives of the students.”

The investigating officer (IO) said the students had consumed liquor. The students were rescued by commuters and rushed to hospital. The students sustained minor injuries.

Second incident in past 3 days

Two accidents have occurred in the last three days. The trench dug up for the construction of the Ludhiana- Mullahpur expressway project has turned into an accident-prone area for commuters entering the city from the Ferozepur side. In the earlier incident, too, drunk driving was the cause of the accident.

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Demand for SUVs head north during polls 
Manav Mander
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, January 9
Due to their performance as an all-terrain vehicle and capacity to travel in urban as well as rural areas for campaign rallies during elections, the demand of sports utility vehicles (SUVs) has gone up. SUV dealers in the city are all smiles as the sale of these cars have suddenly risen during this time of the year.

Companies have started restocking their dealers with the SUVs due to increase in demand. Even the second-hand car market has witnessed an increase in the sale of the SUVs. The marketing executives said Toyota Fortuner, Tata Safari, Ford Endeavour, Mahindra Scorpio and Maruti Gypsy were the most sought after vehicles by the politicians.

The SUVs themselves comprise only 10 percent of the overall auto market but they bring higher profit margin for auto firms. "Our company's SUV Fortuner, is the most sought after vehicle at the moment. From the past few days we are receiving at least 10 queries for this vehicle every day. The elections offer huge opportunity for us, as the entire political campaign is carried out in these SUVs," said Jasdeep Singh dealing in sales at Radiant Toyota.

Even the dealers dealing in the sale of second-hand cars have observed the same trend. "The politicians are buying brand new cars while their supporters are going in for the second-hand ones. These cars top the list of the politicians and their supporters as these vehicles can be used comfortably in all terrains. Tata Safari and Mahindra Scorpio are the most sought-after cars to be used in the conclave," added Santokh Singh, dealing in second-hand cars at Rarewala Market.

Another sales executive at Ford said that they were flooded with queries for the SUVs. During elections, the demand for the SUVs usually increased and proved beneficial for the auto companies. "We have observed a 15 per cent increase in the demand of our vehicle endeavour," he said.

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Health team inspects meat shops 
Our Correspondent

Ludhiana, January 9
Under the directions of the Civil Surgeon, Dr Subhash Batta, a team of health officials today inspected a dozen meat shops in different localities of the city and also took samplesof eatables from some other shops.

Dr Kulwainder Singh, District Health Officer (DHO), who led the team, said meat shops in Haibowal, Chander Nagar, Deep Nagar and Kundanpuri localities were checked for hygiene, sanitation and norms for display and storage of mutton and poultry products.

A majority of the meat shops were found to be lacking in hygiene inside the shops; personal hygiene and medical fitness of staff; disposal of waste water; and steps to control flies.

The department will issue a show-cause notice to the meat shop owners under the Food Safety and Standard Rules and on the basis of the response, further action will be taken as per the law against the offenders.

The team later visited shops selling “rewri”, “bugga” and “gachak” on the Daresi road and Bajwa Nagar and took three samples. The samples will be sent for a chemical analysis to a government laboratory.

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Congmen meet on birmi issue
Puneet Pal Singh Gill
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, January 9
After a group of Congressmen from Atam Nagar constituency revolted against the candidature of Malkit Singh Birmi and gave a two-day ultimatum to the party high command for reconsidering their decision, it is learnt that a meeting, in this regard, was held today.

Sources said the party workers urged ex-chairman, Housefed Punjab, Krishan Kumar Bawa, to contest as an Independent, but Bawa said that since the two-day deadline has passed, he would decide after another meeting with the Congressmen of the area.

While speaking to The Tribune today, Bawa said a meeting of the congressmen of the area was held today. “Even though they urged me to contest as an independent, yet I would make up my mind after a thorough discussion with my family and supporters. Because it would be a tough call for me to make as I have been associated with the congress for a long time and have been a victim of terrorist violence,” said Bawa.

On Friday, a group of the Congressmen led by Bawa had addressed a press conference and had levelled serious ‘corruption’ allegations against a senior congress leader.

Sources said a total of 23 Congressmen had applied for party ticket from Atam Nagar constituency, but the party gave ticket to former minister, Malkit Singh Birmi, who was not even an applicant from the constituency. The press conference was attended by senior congressmen including Palwinder Singh Taggar, Vinod Bathla, both block presidents, Manjit Singh Jawaddi, ex-councillor Satwinder Singh Jawaddi, Mahinder Singh Shinh, Jasbir Singh Jassal, besides other congressmen.

The applicants from Atam Nagar Constituency were Krishan Kumar Bawa, Rajinder Singh Basant, Ajay Johar, Palwinder Singh Taggar, Mahinder Singh Shinh, Gurbhej Singh Chhabra, Manjit Singh Jawaddi, Gurdeep Kaur Kaka, Jasbir Singh Jassal, Amarjit Singh Tikka, Jaswinder Kaur, Sukhdev Singh Lotey, Parminder Jot Kaur Jassal, Gurcharan Singh Sekhon 'Rajajang', Kulwant Singh, Amrit Varsha Rampal, Gurcharan Singh, Narinder Pal Singh, Sukhcharan Singh, Sukhwant Singh, Gurdev Singh Lapran, Makhan Singh and Harpal Singh Sangowal.

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Gosain files papers, declares assets
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, January 9
BJP candidate Satpal Gosain filed his nomination papers from the Ludhiana Central Constituency to the returning officer at the office of the GLADA here today. Gosain was accompanied by his son and grandson.

The papers were filed in the afternoon in the presence of the returning officer. There was no violation of the code of conduct as Gosain filed his nomination paper. As per an affidavit submitted by Gosain, his “cash in hand” income is Rs 1,25,000 and the income of his spouse is Rs 1,50,000. 

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Navjot Singh, Amrik file nomination papers
Gurminder Singh Grewal

Khanna/Samrala January 9
Bahujan Samaj Party official candidate Navjot Singh Jarg today filed his nomination papers from Khanna (general) seat in the office of the SDM, Khanna, Inderjeet Kaur Kang. He along with some of his supporters reached the office and presented his set of papers to the SDM. His brother, Manmeet Singh Mander, also filed his nominations papers as covering candidate of the BSP. Apart from it, the main candidates of Akali Dal, Congress and that of PPP will file their nominations in the coming days.

In Samrala, congress candidate Amrik Singh Dhillon today filed his nomination papers from Samrala (general) constituency in the office of the SDM Jasbir Singh. He along with his some supporters and party men and presented a set of papers to the SDM. His son, Kamaljit Singh Dhillon, also filed his nomination papers as a covering candidate and presented his set of nomination papers. Akali Dal candidate will file his nomination papers in the coming days while the PPP and other parties are yet to decide their candidates for this Constituency.

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shawl industry-I
City Shawls a hit internationally
Manav Mander
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, January 9
Although the shawl industry might be facing a bleak season in the domestic market due to squeezed winters but internationally it is blooming and has seen an upward trend in the past few years.
A salesman shows shawls at a store in Ludhiana.
HOT PICK: A salesman shows shawls at a store in Ludhiana. Photo: Inderjit Verma

The industry known for traditional hand-woven and embroidered shawls, has now mechanised its production by installing world-class machines. Though the Kashmiri shawls have dominated the Indian shawl industry for ages, shawls from Ludhiana have also grown to earn a distinct recognition in the national and international market.

Ludhiana is now focusing its attention on Australia, Europe, Japan, West Asia and the USA market. Today, with the introduction of modern machineries and innovative techniques in design and production, the shawl industry has graduated to another level.

"Indian shawls have become an international fashion accessory and this has given an unexpected boost to exports in Punjab. To meet international standards, the manufacturers have improved the designs, colour and quality of the wool. The Industry that was having a sale of 40 to 50 crores few years ago has now touched Rs. 800 crores," said Kunal Jain, an exporter.

Designs are being created on computers. Intricately designed shawls of high quality are available in the market. The new economic policy adapted in 1991 paved the way for India to export shawls in abundance. Since then the industry has developed at an annual rate of 40 to 50 per cent.

"Laced with hi-tech machines and professional designers, the shawl industry in Ludhiana has matched its strides with an ever-changing lifestyle of developed nations," said Rishabh Aggarwal, another shawl producer from the city.

"The shawls from the city are very popular among my NRI friends. As they are simple and elegant, they can be carried both with traditional and western dresses. Every season I send shawls not only to my NRI friends and relatives but also to those living in other parts of India," said Pammi Sekhon, a customer at NTM Shawls. 

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Gas agencies take consumers for a ride
Shivani Bhakoo
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, January 9
There seems to be no end to woes of LPG consumers in the city. They are either facing “acute” shortage of the LPG or are forced to bear the “rude” behaviour of attendants.

A few oil companies recently started online/ SMS bookings for the convenience of the consumers. But, the procedure is a real “headache” for consumers as they are being charged “heavily” for each online booking .

Anil Kumar (name changed), consumer No. TG-09019, got his LPG booked online on December 12, 2011. He was given reference number 203332 and his booking was again confirmed on January 4. The gas agency had promised to deliver the LPG to him at the earliest. He, however, got the “cancellation” message by the agency on January 5. The SMS read, “Dear Customer, against your refill booking 203332-cancelled.”

Anil Kumar said: “This is disgusting. I got my cylinder booked online after waiting for long. After eight days, the company is again sending the message that my booking has been cancelled. They are taking us for a ride. Without citing any reason, they are simply canceling my booking.” A few other consumers have also lodged complaints in this regard.

While appreciating the online booking process started by the oil companies, Navin Talwar, a local gas distributor, said this step was taken for the benefit of the consumers. “If the booking of a consumer is cancelled, he should be made aware of the reason behind cancellation. The online booking was started for the benefit of customers, it must not harass them,” he added.

Sunil Kumar, Field Officer, Indane Company, said, “This is an exceptional case. Once a message regarding cash memo is sent, distributor has to deliver the LPG to the consumer. It should not be done. There must be some problem, we will get it checked.” 

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60 get diplomas in allied health sciences
Our Correspondent

Ludhiana, January 9
The Institute of Allied Health Sciences, Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, held its second graduation day function today. Dr Manjit S. Kang, former Vice-Chancellor of the PAU, Ludhiana, was the chief guest. As many as 60 students graduating in the session 2009-11 were awarded diplomas in 14 allied health specialities by principal Dr AI Benjamin. The "best student" awards were presented by Kang to the students from each courses.

Disney Masih received the Best Out-going Student of the Institute 2009-11 Award, which was presented by Dr Abraham G. Thomas, director, CMC. Dr Thomas dwelt upon the legacy of the CMC and commitment to provide excellence in all fields of medical education, prepare competent health professionals to meet the health needs of the people of this region and contribute to the national efforts to provide affordable, equitable and quality health care services to all.

Kang exhorted the graduating allied health professionals to serve the poor and the needy selflessly.

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PAU students visit villages
Apprise farmers of latest technologies
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, January 9
The B.Sc Agriculture (Hons.) students of the College of Agriculture (COA), Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), visited Bhundri, Gorsian Makhan, Gurahur, Bharowal Kalan, Khudi Chak and Kot Mana villages as a part of their 10-day training course.

Dr RK Dhaliwal, head, Department of Extension Education, PAU, said that the exercise was a part of the academic programme wherein students interacted with the progressive farmers, farm women, panchayat members and apprised them of the programmes of the university. Educating the farmers about the need-based techniques and technologies designed by the PAU experts, the students shed light on leaf colour chart (LCC), tensiometer, seed treatment, judicious use of pesticides and other agriculture-based issues, she said.

An exhibition of PAU publications was put up at all the villages and farmers evinced keen interest in farm literature. 

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Potholed roads, ill-maintained parks dot this constituency 
Puneet Pal Singh Gill
Tribune News Service

Constituency Watch 
Atam Nagar 

Ludhiana, January 9
Atam Nagar is an entirely urban constituency and post delimitation, it has been carved out of the Ludhiana Rural, Ludhiana West and Dakha constituencies.

It mostly comprises the industrial area like Chet Singh Nagar, Dashmesh Nagar, Janta Nagar, a few areas of Kot Mangal Singh and others located along the Gill Road (starting from the Gill Chowk), besides residential areas such as Urban Estate, Dugri, some parts of Model Town Extension and a few other adjoining localities.

People of this constituency are facing problems like poor infrastructure in the form of bad roads and lack of potable water.

Industrial areas of this constituency, which fall along the Gill Road, have been temporarily declared as “mixed use”.

People have been requesting the authorities to declare these areas as “industrial” due to the hurdles in taking new electricity connections. Officials of the Punjab Pollution Control Board, Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd and others often harass them in this regard.

Traffic is also one major issue of the area as frequent traffic jams are witnessed on the Gill Road as well as interior areas of the constituency.

The green cover in the constituency has depleted over the years. Only a few shabbily maintained parks can be seen in the constituency.

Most of the people in the industrial areas of the city are from the Ramgarhia community.

Thus, both SAD and the Congress have allotted ticket to candidates from this community.

Simarjit Singh Bains, a rebel Akali leader, who is contesting as an Independent, is a Jat Sikh, but holds great influence on the Ramgarhia community as well.

So the residents are expecting a triangular contest this time. 

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Candidates’ take
SAD candidate Hira Singh Gabria

SAD candidate Hira Singh GabriaWhat are the major issues facing your constituency?

As the area has not been declared industrial, people of this constituency, most of whom are factory owners, are harassed by government officials. I will ensure that this problem is resolved at the earliest

What is your poll plank?

I believe in overall development of society and will continue doing so.

What are your poll promises?

After winning the elections, I will declare the areas of my constituency, where large number of factories is located, will be declared industrial. I will also get a focal point sanctioned for small-scale industries so that these can develop further.

What makes you better than others?

I have been serving the area for the past 40 years. I have remained a councillor, an MLA and then a Cabinet minister, besides being the district president of the SAD. I am more experienced and can understand local issues better.


  Congress candidate Malkit Singh Birmi

Congress candidate Malkit Singh Birmi  What are the major issues facing your constituency?

Education, roads, potable water and sewerage

What is your poll plank?

Solving problems faced by people of my constituency with utmost devotion.

What are your poll promises?

I will work hard for solving issues pertaining to my constituency on priority basis. Besides this, I will ensure that community centers, dharamshalas and playgrounds for children are constructed. I will maintain a booth-wise database of problems so that I can solve them. EWS Colony for poor and jhuggi dwellers and people living in slums will also be constructed. But they will have to pay hefty fine if the flats are resold. I will also get all entry points of the constituency beautified.

What makes you better than others?

I have travelled much and have experience of constructing roads, laying pipelines overseas. I am a two-time minister, while one of my opponents is just a councillor and another is a minister, who remained inaccessible for residents of his own constituency.


  Independent candidate Simarjit Singh Bains (SAD rebel)

Independent candidate Simarjit Singh Bains (SAD rebel)What are the major issues facing your constituency?

Foremost issue according to me is the overall development of the constituency. Even though the sitting MLA was a Cabinet minister, people were harassed in the hands of government officials. Areas of my constituency where factories are located would be declared as industrial, I will work hard for creating more jobs for the youth and ensure that residents of my constituency remain in a corruption-free environment. Besides, I will also lay emphasis on overall development, such as good infrastructure.

What is your poll plank?

Serving people, development and corruption-free society.

What are your poll promises?

I don't need to promise anything as people have already seen my work ever since I became a municipal councillor. I believe in serving people as it is my passion and I will continue doing so.

What makes you better than others?

I will be available for people 24X7. You can ask any person from my constituency about this. Unlike my two opponents, politics is not my profession and my family is not dependent on it. So, I get ample time to serve residents. Besides, people know me personally and the way I work.

What are your chances of winning?

I don't want to look overconfident, but the kind of response I am getting from people is overwhelming. I think people will create history by supporting an Independent candidate. They should know that a leader who wins as an Independent has never been caught in any scandal. 

 

 

Poll Buzz
Levelling allegations

A green belt opposite the grain market, Gill Road, Ludhiana, which has not been maintained.
A green belt opposite the grain market, Gill Road, Ludhiana, which has not been maintained. Photo: Inderjeet Verma.

With electioneering picking up in the region, candidates are prepared to level allegations against each other. Not just that, they are ready with the huge list of their “achievements”. On asking why they should be chosen by the public, instead of telling their own positive points, most of them start providing details of others' “malicious-intentions” and why the rival candidate should not be given the opportunity to be re-elected. The model code of conduct stresses that there should not be any personal attack, but who cares?

Fact file
Total voters: 1,29,539
Male: 68,242
Female: 61,297

peoples’ voice



— Contributed by Shivani Bhakoo

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Youths banking on good governance 

A group of youngsters in their early 20's, whom we met in the constituency said the condition of roads was pitiable. The state government has not paid any heed to issues like cleanliness, garbage disposal and proper maintenance of the parks.

Kulbir Singh Rinku, a resident of Urban Estate (Phase II), said the storm sewers in his area remained blocked, especially during the monsoon. “Sometimes, when it rain, it becomes very difficult for us to even drive our bikes.”

He said he along with his friends want to form a youth club, so that they could highlight the issues of their area. “We want to be vigilant of our rights first and then develop our area.”

Another youth, Harpreet Singh Swaddi, said they want a youth to become an MLA of his constituency. “Youth is entering politics. We want an MLA who focuses on development,” said Gurjeet Singh Dang, another youngster.

Ishan Monga, a resident of Dugri, said they had taken up the issue of proper maintenance of parks with the Municipal Corporation. “And whenever officials visit the spot, they feel as if they are burdened. But we will not tolerate such things any longer and vote for only that candidate, who helps us in beautifying our area and developing it wholeheartedly.” 

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Nutritious diet, rest keep campaigners going 
Anupam Bhagria
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, January 9
The election campaign is going to hot up with only two days left for filing the nominations. The candidates contesting from different constituencies for various parties are busy meeting residents of their constituencies. And their well- wishers can be seen serving tea/coffee along with dry fruits, gachak and spicy snacks. But all this might be harmful for their health.

The candidates are suffering from stress due to their hectic schedule. Experts from different city hospitals have suggested healthy and nutritious diet along with little rest in the afternoon and exercise in the morning for politicians to stay fit during their busy days.

Talking to The Tribune, Dr Kanika Goel, executive dietician, SPS Apollo Hospitals, said, “They should start their day by drinking lemon water followed by half-an-hour walk. They should have milk with oats or musli along with stuffed roti (not fried) and curd in breakfast. As the candidates will be out for canvassing, so they should avoid eating high- calorie snacks and opt for cut fruits and tea without sugar. To combat with the strenuous mental activity, the lunch should include “dal roti” and vegetables with less ghee and oil. To add calcium and protein they can have ‘paneer bhurji’ also. In the evening again they should have tea with biscuits and dinner should not exceed to two “chapattis”, vegetable, ‘dal’ and curd."

Skipping breakfast may land them in trouble. Dr Ruma Singh, Chief dietitician, Christian Medical College and Hospital, said, “All essential nutrients are required for the hectic schedule. They should go for meals, which gives them sufficient energy. The candidates should ensure that they have healthy breakfast before they leave for the day. Cold drinks should be replaced with fresh fruit like oranges, apples and bananas. The consumption of tea and coffee should not exceed more than three cups as it has diuretic effect on the health, means one has to go time and again for passing urine. And if anyone serves them dry fruit, one should take a few almonds and avoid walnut as it produces more fat.”

The dinner should be taken two hours before going to sleep. While advising to the candidates suffering from any heart ailment and high blood pressure, Dr GS Wander, Chief Cardiologist, Hero DMC Heart Institute, said, “If a person is already on medicine, he should not avoid pills. Avoid exposure to cold by wearing proper thermals and woollens. During campaigning, contestants suffer from exertion, excitement, anxiety and above all lack of sleep. All these are the precipitants for bad health. So it is advisable to have half-an-hour rest in the afternoon because exercise is not possible due to their hectic schedule. And the long fasting should be avoided."

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Punjab board class X result
Tribune News service

Ludhiana, January 9
Punjab School Education Board announced the result of class X first semester. Chairman PSEB DS Dhillon said the result has been uploaded on the department's web site. It would be displayed at 8 am on January 10.

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Take care of your dog this winter
Tribune News service

Ludhiana, January 9
“Dogs usually develop weak immune system in winters, as they are under stress. During winters they become weak and are susceptible to infectious diseases. Precautions must be taken to avoid contact with other diseased dogs”, Dr Kirti Dua, HoD, veterinary medicine of Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, said. He said the dogs must not be exposed to cold and should be given proper nutrition. In winters, their appetite usually increases, so the quantity of diet should be increased, otherwise, a hungry dog may start eating household objects, he said.

Winter is the breeding season for dogs. Bitches come in heat and a male dog may become restless when any bitch in heat is present in the nearby area. Take precautions to prevent mating with stray dogs/ bitches. The winter time is also whelping time for bitches therefore pregnant bitches should be provided adequate nutrition and warm housing, he said.

It is very important that pups should be reared at an optimum temperature, otherwise they may succumb to hypothermia. Pups delivered should be separated from the mother at the age of six to eight weeks. If a pup is brought home before six weeks of age, care should be taken to maintain the environmental temperature. Special coats, which are available in the market, must be used. The pup should not be allowed to venture out during cold or foggy days. Pups after catching cold may show symptoms like nasal discharge, vomiting, diarrhoea and dullness. Veterinary doctor's help should be taken immediately. Deworming and vaccination record must be kept updated. Preferably warm fresh food should be given to the dogs. Boiled eggs, meats, soyabean meal can be given to meet the protein requirement, he said.

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From Schools
World Laughter Day celebrated

Ludhiana: World Laughter Day was celebrated at Sai Public School. The teachers made students laugh by relating humorous anecdotes. School principal explained that the World Laughter Day was initiated by Dr Madan Kataria, founder of the world wide laughter yoga movement in 1998. A laughter contest was organised and the winners were Pooja of class XII and Baljeet Singh of Class X.

KVM organises Dubai tour

Kundan Vidya Mandir, Civil Lines, organised a five-day tour to Dubai from January 3 to 7 for the studens. Over 32 students along with 4 teachers went to the tour. The students visited Dhow Cruise, Burj Al Arab, Jumeria Beach, Dubai Museum, Gold Souk, sand dunes, Great Atlantis, Meena Bazar etc

'Baby's Day Out'

Bhartiya Vidya Mandir Senior Secondary School, Udham Singh Nagar, celebrated the Kiddies fete 'Baby's Day Out'. The school had organised various stalls. A ‘Healthy Baby Contest’ was also conducted. Many mothers participated in the exclusive contest 'My Mom-The Best Chef' with their dainty home made dishes. Father of many children participated in arm wrestling. Best dancers of the school wee Harpreet, Priyanka, Rahul, Abhinav. The winners of the ‘healthy baby’ contest were Mahira Bhandari and Samarveer Singh. In ‘fancy dress’ contest, the winners were Fiza Dutta, Gurpriya, Kanika and Niharika declared. — TNS

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From  Colleges
Power Lifters bring laurels

Powerlifters of Master Tara Singh College.
Powerlifters of Master Tara Singh College. A Tribune photograph

Power lifters of Master Tara Singh Memorial College for Women, Ludhiana, brought laurels to the college by securing second position in Panjab University Power Lifting and Weight Lifting Inter-College Competition held at Chandigarh from January 5 to 7.As many as nine power lifters participated in the event.

In power lifting, Amanjot Kaur won gold medal in 90kg, Amandeep Kaur in 75kg and Rimpy bagged silver medal in 52-kg category. College principal Dr. Parveen Kaur Chawla congratulated Harpreet Kaur (lecturer in physical education), Amarjeet Singh (coach) and the participants for their excellent performance and inspired them to keep up the same spirit in future. — TNS

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Thieves strike factory unit twice in 3 months
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, January 9
While the police failed to nab the thieves who targeted Max Engineering, a factory unit, in the Dhandari area and decamped with engineering goods worth Rs 5 lakh on October 29, the unit again fell prey to the thieves who, this time, decamped it with engineering goods, LCD, CCTVs' worth near Rs 2 lakh.

The incident came to light this morning when the workers of the factory unit reached for work and found the office ransacked. The workers immediately informed the owner of factory unit about the incident.

"Thieves are rubbing slat on my wounds. Last time, when the thieves struck my factory unit the policemen had suggested me to install CCTV cameras. But this time the thieves took the CCTV cameras and recorder as well. Besides, the thieves also decamped with engineering material and an LCD," said Sunil Sharma, owner of the factory unit.

Sources said, the thieves trespassed into the factory unit by breaking the door located on the roof of the factory unit.

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Two arrested in murder case

Phillaur: The Goraya Police has succeeded in solving a murder case of a migrant labourer identified as Vikas. The police has arrested two villagers namely Davinder Singh and Sukhdev Singh of Dosanjh Kalan Village under Section 302 and 34 of the IPC on the charges of murdering. The murder took place on the night of January 2. The body of the deceased was found in a room near a well in the fields of a farmer, said the police. Both, the accused were produced before judicial magistrate who sent them in police remand. — OC

Phillaur, January 9

Four unidentified armed robbers robbed Prabhjit Singh, a gunman of Noormahal Nagar Council president, Tirth Ram Sandhu, and snatched a cash of Rs 5,000 and a mobile phone. The victim was returning his home, when he was looted near Chuheki village last night. The police has registered case. — OC

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