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Exam spells chaos on roads
Thousands of candidates miss food inspector exam due to traffic jams
Tribune Reporters

Candidates who failed to make it on time to their examination centres hold a protest outside a centre in Sector 22-D, Chandigarh.
Candidates who failed to make it on time to their examination centres hold a protest outside a centre in Sector 22-D, Chandigarh. Tribune photo: Pradeep Tewari

Chandigarh/Mohali, Dec 15
Utter chaos on roads leading to Chandigarh from neighbouring areas, that extended to various parts of the city, this morning left more than 70,000 students in the lurch. These students, among over 1.5 lakh candidates who thronged the city to appear for an exam for posts of food inspector, Punjab, were denied entry to exam centres as they reached 15 to 20 minutes late.

The rush of thousands of candidates across various centres in the city led to traffic snarls, causing inconvenience to other commuters also. Some of the centres where the candidates created a major uproar due to denial of entry included Government Model Senior Secondary School, Sector 10, DAV College, Sector 10, and Shishu Niketan School, Sector 22. The chaos prevailed at various other centres also with students demanding that the exam should be rescheduled.

The exam was conducted in two batches: from 10 am to 12.30 pm and from 2 pm to 4.30 pm.

Manvir Singh Sidhu, a candidate who missed the exam due to a traffic jam, said he started from Patiala at 10 am, but could not reach the examination centre till 2 pm.

Another student, Jasmine, who travelled to the city from Jalandhar, could not appear for the exam. “If the authorities were aware that so many candidates are going to appear, they should have selected more cities for setting up centres. I believe more than 5 lakh students came to the city as there were some other exams also scheduled for today.”

Anusha, a candidate who was supposed to appear for an entrance test for MBA, conducted by Symbiosis, at an examination centre in PEC, started from Patiala at around 8 am. However, due to a massive traffic jam, she could only manage to reach the examination centre at around 3.30 pm while she was supposed to enter the examination hall at 2 pm.

The chaos continued in southern sectors of the city till late in the evening. Several candidates kept waiting for buses, which were running behind schedule, till late in the evening.

Reports from Mohali said commuters and examinees had a harrowing time with traffic jams witnessed on various roads around the town as candidates in large numbers converged on the area to appear for the examination for posts of inspector conducted by the Department of Food and Civil Supplies, Punjab, here today.

Long lines of vehicles were seen on various roads, including the Mohali-Kharar road, the Kharar-Banur road and the Mohali-Sirhind road. It took hours for people to get through the jams. The heavy traffic congestion remained for most part of the day.

The Department of Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Punjab, had held the examination for the recruitment of 461 inspectors. Examination centres were set up in various institutions, including those in Chandigarh, Mohali, Panchkula, Kharar, Gharuan, Jhanjeri, Sahauran, Landran, Tangori, Banur and Ramnagar.

A large number of candidates could not appear in the examination as they got delayed due to the traffic jams.

Mandeep Singh, one of the candidates who could not appear for the examination, said he belonged to Patran in Patiala district. He had boarded a bus at 5.20 am from Patran to reach Chandigarh. The bus got late as there was a big jam on the Chandigarh-Banur road. Later, when he left for Kharar from Chandigarh he again got caught in a traffic jam. He was about 15 minutes late for the examination but was not allowed to enter at the gate of GGS College, Kharar, which was his examination centre.

Inder Mohan Singh, SSP, said all DSPs, SHOs and other personnel tried to regulate traffic throughout the day. He estimated that there were around 4 lakh persons on various roads in the area. The SSP said the police was not informed that such a large number of examinees would reach the area.

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Violence mars panchayat poll; 79.51% cast ballot
Rajinder Nagarkoti
Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 15
Violence in Kishangarh, which left at least six persons injured and three vehicles damaged, marred the UT gram panchayat elections today, which witnessed a voter turnout of 79.51 per cent.
Voters queue up to cast their ballot at Dariya village in Chandigarh on Sunday.
Voters queue up to cast their ballot at Dariya village in Chandigarh on Sunday. Tribune photo: S Chandan

The elections were held in 13 villages, which come under 12 gram panchayats. While one of the injured was taken to the GMSH, Sector 16, five others were treated at a hospital in Mani Majra. Barring Kishangarh, the elections were by and large peaceful. In the last panchayat elections in 2008, the voter turnout was 85 per cent.

In Kishangarh, a clash took place between two groups, backed by the Congress and the SAD-BJP alliance, respectively, in the evening after the voting concluded. Interestingly, the incident took place in the presence of the police.

Manoj Lubana, a Congress leader and family member of Gurvinder Kaur, one of the candidates contesting the elections for the post of sarpanch, alleged that they were coming from a polling booth after the polling when members of an opposition party attacked them with sharp weapons, which left many persons injured.

A youth injured in a poll-related clash at Kishangarh.
A youth injured in a poll-related clash at Kishangarh. Tribune photo: Vicky Gharu

Countering Lubana’s allegation, Kulwinder Singh, a relative of Man Kaur, who is also contesting for the post of sarpanch and has the backing of the SAD-BJP alliance, said supporters of the opposition party entered his house and attacked his family members and supporters. "They also damaged our vehicles," he alleged.

Meanwhile, the elections saw Raipur Kalan village recording the highest polling percentage of 92.84. Raipur Khurd recorded the lowest voting percentage of 74.79. There were 39,969 voters in the villages. The counting of votes will take place on December 17.

People turned up in large numbers to cast their vote. Long queues were seen outside polling booths in the villages. At some places, voters had to wait for hours to exercise their franchise.

With parliamentary elections due next year, political parties tried their best to ensure the victory of the candidates supported by them. Though the elections were not held on party symbols, the parties left no stone unturned to muster support for their candidates for the posts of sarpanch and panch. Senior leaders of the Congress, the SAD-BJP and the BSP visited a number of villages today to boost the morale of the candidates supported by them.

For 11 posts of sarpanch (Raipur Kalan sarpanch Ram Singh has already being elected unopposed), 44 candidates were in the fray. Similarly, for the 132 seats of panch, 28 candidates have been elected unopposed while for the remaining 104 seats, 225 candidates were in the fray.

The Election Commission had reserved the post of sarpanch in some villages. At Kishangarh, Kaimbwala and Behlana, the post was reserved for women candidates. Meanwhile, for Raipur Kalan and Makhan Majra, represented by one panchayat, the post of sarpanch was reserved for Scheduled Caste candidates. At Khuda Jassu, the post was reserved for Scheduled Caste women.

Of the total 132 posts of panch, 73 seats were for the general category, while 38 posts were reserved for women, 14 for Scheduled Castes and seven for Scheduled Caste women.

Long list of candidates

In villages such as Daria, Kishangarh, Mauli Jagran and Khuda Alisher, since there were a large number of candidates, residents and the election staff faced inconvenience. In Daria, 61 candidates were contesting for the post of panch and eight for sarpanch. As a result, the ballot paper was very long and voters found it difficult to fold the ballot paper, which delayed the process.

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30-year-old man stabbed to death
Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 15
A 30-year-old resident of Bapu Dham Colony in Sector 26 was stabbed to death by his neighbour in the wee hours today. The victim was taken to the PGI where he succumbed to his injuries.

The deceased has been identified as Pappu. He was a vegetable dealer at the Sector 26 market and was allegedly stabbed to death by Shankar, alias Judi.

The police said Pappu's sister-in-law woke up at around 4 am to answer nature's call after which she decided to go out for a morning walk. However, the moment she stepped out of the house, Shankar allegedly grabbed her and molested her. The victim raised the alarm following which Pappu came out of the house to rescue her. The accused, in a bid to save himself, pulled out a knife and stabbed Pappu. The accused then fled from the spot. The Police Control Room received a call at around 4.20 am and took the injured to the PGI.

According to the police, the accused is a habitual offender and was involved in various crime incidents earlier. "The accused was recently released from Burail Jail, where he had been lodged in connection with a robbery case," the police said.

Pappu is survived by his six-year-old son. His wife had died due to an illness.

The police have registered a case at the Sector 26 police station. They said efforts were on to arrest the accused.

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runway repair
VIPs flout norms with impunity at airport
Vivek Gupta
Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 15
The Chandigarh domestic airport witnessed a heavy rush and chaos today with VIPs "taking undue advantage of their positions". While cars of ordinary people were not allowed to stop for over a minute at the no-parking zone, cars of bureaucrats and politicians donning red beacons remained parked near the arrival gate in violation of the rules for over an hour.

With a lot of space in the no-parking zone used up by these cars, there was traffic chaos at the airport.

Nine flights landed and took off in a matter of few hours as the flights operated till only 1 pm today due to renovation work on the runway. As a result, there was a huge rush of vehicles, jostling for space in the main parking area as well as the move-away zone, also called no-parking area.

While the "internal" check-in procedure was streamlined today with the opening of an additional security check counter, there was no change in the scene outside.

Traffic constables failed to ensure that the vehicles were parked only in the parking area.

A passenger, Anil Sharma, said: “The notice board at the airport clearly states that the no-parking area is a tow-away zone, but it seems these rules don’t apply to VIP vehicles," he said.

A huge rush was seen after 10 am as seven flights were scheduled between 10.30 am and 1 pm. A senior manager of an airline claimed the everything went on smoothly today. Passengers checked in on time and airlines also worked on a war footing. No passenger missed his flight today.

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Worker dies as shuttering gives way, four injured
Tribune News Service

Panchkula, December 15
A labourer was killed while four suffered critical injuries after shuttering came down crashing on them as they were working on the facade of a 15-storied building under construction at the IT Park in Sector 22 here today.

The four injured are Sar-ud-Din (25), Lal Mohammad, alias Raj (26), Rashid Ali (24) and Sajid (22) who were rushed to the PGI, Chandigarh. Lal Mohammad, alias Raj (26), succumbed to head injuries in the evening while the condition of Sajid is serious. Nabi Mohammad is being treated at the General Hospital in Panchkula.

At the time of the incident, at least 12 labourers were working at the site. The investigation officer said a crack in the middle of the shuttering led to the accident. According to sources, the metallic shuttering was very old and it failed to bear the pressures. The other workers, sensing danger, climbed up to save their lives.

A case has been registered against contractor Krishan Kumar under Section 336 (endangering life or personal safety of others) and 337 (causing hurt by action endangering life or personal safety) of the IPC. The FIR in the causality case will be filed after receiving documents by the PGI hospital, said Inspector Arvind Kumar, SHO of the Chandimandir Police station. It seemed that two bolts of the shuttering plates got loose, resulting in the accident, he said.

Safety norms given the go-by
The incident has exposed the poor safety of workers at construction sites. The labourers working at the building were not wearing safety harness, head gear, hand-grips or jackets.

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Year 2013 ender
A year of speedy trials, convictions
Aneesha Sareen
Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 15
The city got a new landmark with the inauguration of the district courts complex in Sector 43 in January this year.

The year was abuzz with activity with the court witnessing speedy trials, especially in cases involving minor children as victims. The year also saw allegations of bribe being levelled on a district court judge. The allegations, however, could not be substantiated.

Saji Mohan case

In March this year, IPS officer and former Director of the Narcotics Control Bureau Saji Mohan was convicted and sentenced to 13 years rigorous imprisonment in a case of drug pilferage. He was convicted along with three others. According to the prosecution, Saji Mohan, along with the four others, pilfered heroin from 13 unclaimed seizures, which were stored in the storeroom of the NCB headquarters in Sector 2 in August 2009. The ATS, Mumbai, had first booked the IPS officer in January 2009 when he was caught with 12 kg of heroin following which the NCB, Chandigarh, had begun investigations, which revealed that Saji Mohan, during his tenure as the NCB Director here, mixed slaked lime in the drugs, keeping aside the "pure" for his personal gain.

Fastest trial

The court of Additional District and Sessions Judge Shalini Nagpal created history by sentencing an accused of rape attempt on a minor in just 17 days after the incident was first reported.

The court convicted Ram Bahadur, alias Veer Bahadur. The evidence in the case was recorded in an hour on March 14. The incident was reported on March 2 and the court had pronounced the order on March 17.

CA’s murder

A long-pending case of 2007 pertaining to the murder of Chartered Accountant Rajesh Goyal was finally decided this year on July 8 with the court sentencing the four accused to life imprisonment. The CA was found murdered at his Sector 42 office and embezzlement of shares was the reason behind the murder.

Nirmal Yadav case

After a long wait of five years, the CBI court finally ordered the framing of charges in the sensational judge bribery case of 2008 after intense arguments by the prosecution in the case. The former High Court judge, however, moved the Supreme Court against the order of the trial court and final framing of charges against her is still awaited. The former justice is in the dock for allegedly taking Rs 15 lakh bribe for deciding a case.

Charges against Deshraj

The CBI court framed charges against UT police SP Deshraj who was arrested last year in a bribe case. He was caught taking Rs 1 lakh bribe from an SHO of a police station for clearing departmental inquiries against him.

Speedy trial in Inspector’s murder case

In a speedy trial, the court sentenced the killers of Inspector Sucha Singh to life imprisonment. The court sentenced dismissed constable Basant and his friend Sarita in the case. The case was decided after a speedy trial in just 12 hearings. The Inspector rounded up the couple on suspicion and was stabbed by them in a police vehicle.

Professor’s acquittal in abetment-to-suicide case

Five years after a student of the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Sector 32, committed suicide by hanging himself, the Court of Additional District and Sessions Judge Shalini S Nagpal acquitted the GMCH professor in the case of abetment to suicide after the prosecution failed to prove the charges. The case was decided in February this year.

The court acquitted Professor NK Goel, head of department of community medicine, who was booked for abetment to suicide under section 306 of the IPC in October 2008, eight months after the GMCH student hanged himself in the college hostel. Jaspreet Singh, an MBBS final year student hailing from Amritsar, had hanged himself from the ceiling fan on January 28, 2008.

Highlights

* As the district courts were shifted, the litigants faced the problem of parking outside the courts complex.

* A charge sheet was submitted in the teachers’ recruitment scam by the CBI.

* Former UT chief engineer KK Jerath was acquitted in three cases registered against him this year.

* National Lok Adalats were held with much fanfare and hundreds of pending cases were settled.

* The court started suspending the licences of habitual offenders who have been challaned repeatedly for drunken driving by the Traffic police.

Looking Ahead

The Central Government has sanctioned 10 courts to meet the increasing backlog of cases. The move will facilitate clearing the backlog in the Chandigarh District Courts. At present, the district courts have a sanction of 20 judges. While increasing the sanction from 20 judges to 30 judges, the Centre has also given the go-ahead for appointing the staff required for additional judges. More than 70,000 cases are pending in the Chandigarh District Courts.

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reporters' diary
When ‘Aap’ led to confusion 

Recently, during a conversation between the BJP likely candidate for the Lok Sabha and a cadre voter of the party, there was a misunderstanding when the candidate asked the latter whom he would vote in the coming elections, and the voter replied “Aap”. The leader got annoyed and told the voter that how he could ditch the party which he had supported for the past so many years. The voter replied humbly: “I meant to say the BJP candidate, not the ‘AAP’”.

Students of Millennium School cheer their house members during the annual athletics meet.
Students of Millennium School cheer their house members during the annual athletics meet. Tribune photo: pradeep tewari 

Sharp memory

Member of the Joint Electricity Regulatory Commission (JERC) SK Chaturvedi’s sharp memory stunned everybody, including BJP councillor Saurabh Joshi, during a public hearing session organised by the JERC in the city. When Joshi started to give his introduction, Chaturvedi said he knew that you were a councillor. After a few seconds, when Joshi again started, Chaturvedi said he also knew that you were an advocate as well. Joshi attended a public hearing session in April and that time Chaturvedi was hearing residents’ objections to power tariff.

Cautious approach

The city Mayor, Subhash Chawla, who has been facing the Opposition criticism over the issue of stay cattle menace in the city, made sure that they were invited to the flag-off ceremony for despatching 88 head of cattle to gaushalas in Punjab. Before the flag-off ceremony, the Mayor asked Deputy Mayor Satish Kainth to please make sure that the information regarding the ceremony was passed on to the BJP councillors so that they could check whether the cattle were shifted safely or else they would again ‘start complaining’.

Pak media makes most of WhatsApp

“Saving now” is a sign of good future and the Pakistani media seems to be following the golden rule quite often. In Punjab, to cover World Cup Kabaddi matches, Pakistani mediapersons were seen making full use of the voice chat mode of free software downloaded on phones instead of making calls. Some of the journalists were seen dictating their stories through the popular Whatsapp that comes very cheap.

Scribes much sought after

With the general elections approaching, a number of former scribes, who are running their public relations (PR) companies, are in great demand. Politicians are pinning their hopes on the scribes to get their news reports published. These agencies are also receiving queries about updating social websites.

Contributed by: Rajinder Nagarkoti, Deepankar Sharda, Aarti Kapur, Amit Sharma, Rajmeet Singh 

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Woman falls off 2nd floor, dies
Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 15
A 28-year-old mother of two children died under mysterious circumstances after falling off the second floor of her house in Sector 26 today. According to the family members of the victim, she had gone upstairs to dry clothes on the terrace when she reportedly had a slip.

This incident happened at around 4 am. The victim, identified as Shobha, suffered head and chest injuries. The police have not ruled out the possibility of foul play in this incident.

According to the police, the victim’s husband, Vijay Kumar, is the complainant in the case. Both of them rain a vegetable and fruit business at the Sector 26 grain market.

“Initially, we presumed it as a case of suicide but now we are also looking into other angles. We are reconstructing the crime sequence and recording the statements of the family members,” said a police official.

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Armed forces’ role in decision-making stressed
Tribune News Service

Panchkula, December 15
Stressing that civil-military relation must transform at the highest level to meet present day requirements, Wajahat Habbibulah, Chairperson, National Commission for Minorities, said today that the armed forces must be a part of the decision-making process on all matters that concern them.

Speaking at a seminar on "Post-Independence Evolving Contours of the Indian Military Society", organised by the Indian Ex-servicemen Movement on the eve of Vijay Diwas here, Habbibulah said the country was facing many security threats, both internal and external, and the armed forces were a great integrating factor in national security. Vijay Diwas is observed on December 16 each year to commemorate Indian victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war that led to the liberation of Bangladesh.

Pointing out that earlier insurgencies and threats of certain states separated from the Indian union have been taken care of and the present internal security situation in the affected region has largely been reduced to demands for political and socio-economic upheaval, Habbibulah said this had been possible due to the role played by the armed forces.

Several technical sessions were also organised during which retired officers expressed their opinions and views. 

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Khalsa’s fast
Dharnas outside DC offices on Dec 17
Our Correspondent

Mohali, December 15
Representatives of the Sant Samaj, Nihangs and other Sikh organisations decided to stage dharnas in front of the offices of the Deputy Commissioners throughout the state on December 17. The decision was taken to press the demand for the release of the Sikh youths languishing in various jails in the country even after the completion of their sentences. The meeting was held in response to an appeal by radical leader Gurbaksh Singh Khalsa, whose indefinite fast at the entered its 32nd day today.

Leaders said the Punjab Government should take up the issue of the release of the Sikh detainees. Khalsa called for unity among the Sikh organisations and the starting of a people’s movement to secure the release of the detainees.

Among the leaders present were Harpal Singh Cheema, acting president of the SAD ( Panch Pardhani), RP Singh of the Akand Kirtani Jatha and Satnam Singh, Paonta Sahib, of the Dal Khalsa.

It was announced that a ‘Khalsa march’ would reach Mohali from Talwandi Sabo tomorrow.

Yesterday, Congress MLA from Chamkaur Sahib Charanjit Singh Chani met Khalsa and extended support to him.

After giving an assurance that he would take up the issue of the release of the Sikhs with the Union Home Minister, Chani urged the fasting leader to give up his indefinite fast. However, Khalsa declined to do so and said his fast would continue till the detained Sikhs are released. 

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Balbir adjudged 'king of flowers'
Our Correspondent

Dera Bassi, December 15
Balbir Singh Rathore was adjudged the 'king of flowers' as the two-day flower festival concluded at Sada Sukh Park here on Sunday. Various institutions and individuals had brought flowers to the festival. Rathore had showcased nearly 300 flowers at the fest. A competition was held on the occasion.

Earlier, Mohali Deputy Commissioner Tejinderpal Singh Sidhu inaugurated the show. Addressing the gathering, he threw light on the importance of flower shows.

Chief Parliamentary Secretary NK Sharma presided over the concluding day function and distributed prizes to the winners. Among those present included SDM Inderjeet Kaur Kang, SP Anil Sharma and executive officer of the Municipal Council Rajesh Sharma.

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Residents protest against property tax
Our Correspondent

Mohali, December 15
Residents of Phase IX protested against the levying of property tax here today. The protesters raised slogans against the Punjab Government and demanded that the decision should be rolled back because an unjustified financial burden had been put on the residents. The protest was organised by the Citizens' Welfare Council of the area and led by its president Mukhtiar Singh Pawar.

The protesters said when the final notification for Mohali was issued in 1969, the government had stated that no taxes would be imposed on the town in the next 50 years. They said the government had already collected development charges at the time of allotting plots but had failed to provide basic facilities like adequate number of dispensaries, government schools etc.

SS Dhanoa, president of the Citizens Welfare and Development Forum, a central body, said it was totally unjustified to collect property tax from people, who had rented out their premises. Rent was a source of income for retired persons and they were already paying income tax.

He said they had met the Minister of Local Government in this regard but he failed to give a favourable response. He said the protest against property tax would go on in the town, and claimed that today’s rally was the 11th in a series. 

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SSP suspends four police personnel
Our Correspondent

Mohali, December 15
Mohali SSP Inder Mohan Singh has suspended four police personnel on the charge of beating up two persons in custody and one for not performing his duty properly.

According to reports, the suspended personnel are Sub-Inspector Harbans Singh, Havildars Major Singh and Amarjit Singh and constable Manjit Singh, all of the Nayagaon police station.

They allegedly had beaten up Sumit Kumar of Sector 56 and Munish Kumar of Mani Majra, who was arrested under Section 420 of the IPC and were in police remand.

It is learnt that the mother of Sumit Kumar had gone to the police station last night to meet her son and saw the Sub- Inspector and others beating up the two persons in custody. They did not listen to her pleas to desist from doing so.

People later gathered at the police station. A complaint was also made to the SSP in this regard.

Reports said the four personnel were also taken for a medical examination to a government hospital, where they were allegedly found to be under the influence of liquor. A departmental inquiry is reported to have been ordered into the matter.

In another case when the SSP rang up the police control room from a number other than his own for checking, he found that constable Naresh Kumar was allegedly not performing his duty properly. He was suspended immediately.

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justice for pinki
SIT split into four to probe different angles
Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 15
The Chandigarh police that are yet to make a headway in the Pinki murder case have now constituted four teams within the SIT in order to probe the case from different angles.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sukhchain Singh Gill said they were investigating the case from multiple angles for which four teams were working on different aspects.

"While one of the teams is investigating the technical aspects of the case, another was conducting manual investigations. The third team is conducting door-to-door search operations in Palsora and nearby areas and the fourth team is examining the records of similar cases reported in the neighbouring states," the SSP stated.

Pinki, a Class-VI student and a resident of Palsora, had gone missing on November 27. Her body was recovered in a jute sack from the forest area in Sector 52. The post-mortem examination report had revealed that she was sexually assaulted before being strangled to death. Even after announcing a reward of Rs 1 lakh to the person providing information about the murder, the police have not received any vital clue in the case.

The SSP stated that the police were working on some leads, which could not be divulged at this stage.

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dog show
It’s not a dog’s life, they live life king-size
Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 15
From international breeds of dogs to imported accessories, for entertaining pets, everything was seen at the one-day dog show organised at Leisure valley, here today.

The Chandigarh Kennel Club organised 56th and 57th all breeds dog show championship and the one-day competition witnessed number of dogs flaunting themselves. On one hand, big build Russian origin breeds including Borzoi and Central Asian Shepherd, St Bernard, Great Dane impressed the audience while on other hand smaller breeds including famous Chow-Chow, Beagle, Chihuahua, Basset Hound and Golden Retriever stole the show with their amazing cute personality. Presence in large number of Indian Panther Hound (Gaddi Kutta), known as the best hunter of hills, also makes the audience to halt for a while and click photographs.

Borzoi, a greyhound, was among the most expensive dogs at the show. Owned by Uttkarsh, a resident of Jaipur, the rare breed of dog was purchased a few months back and is taken care by a specially appointed staff. The routine of this dog includes, hair drying, teeth brushing, nail cutting and hair cutting. “This is among the rarest breed of dogs present in India, so he deserves all the attention,” said Uttkarsh.

Carrying another pricey tag the pure white coloured Central Asian Shepherd, was also a treat for every eye. Owned by Simran, a young girl from Haryana, the dog was claimed to be purchased at a hefty price of over Rs 1 lakh. “We have purchased a pair for around Rs 2.5 lakhs. He is here to participate in young dogs’ category. He is yet to grow and is able to eat flesh of calf-muscle in one bite. So, he is a bit dangerous but generally remain calm,” said Simran.

The Chinese breed Tibetian Mastiff (one among the breeds of most expensive dogs of the world) was also a centre of attraction. Owned by Birinder Kaleka, a businessman, he has hired special persons to look after this black giant creature.

Coming to light weight category of small dogs, Chinese chow-chow, Beagle and Golden Retriever, were pleasing eyes. “These are nice to handle if compare with their larger counterparts. These are famous for their calm behaviour and unusual sizes,” claimed Jaspreet Narula, an owner of a Beagle Harrier.

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Musician remembered

Chandigarh, December 15
The Swar Saptak Club in association with the Haryana Culture Department paid a musical tribute to the club’s musician Subhash Naik through a musical function at the Tagore Theatre in Sector 18 here.

Old videos featuring Subhash playing music were also shown today. Family members of the late musician were also present today.

Organisers of the function said the aim of this function was to remember his contribution and to raise funds to help his family. The function was well attended by the locals. — TNS

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Open House response
Residents seek death for rapists, want girls to learn self-defence

We hear a folklore 'dulha bhattiwala' around the festival of Lohri. How he got married a village girl as if she was his own daughter. The tale spoke about a society where a village girl is daughter of everyone in the village. But in today's world, we have distanced ourselves from everyone. We have to work in the society at grassroots level. We also need to educate our girls and get them learn the art of self-defence. A girl child should also be taught to raise voice against injustice.

Dr Ranju Gulati, Chandigarh

Govt should ensure security to public

The successive governments have been pursuing policies that could help them allure voters. However, the security of people, especially small children and girls, is something that requires an immediate concern. The brutal rape and murder of the 10-year-old girl neither explains "India shining" nor "Mera Bharat Mahaan". Security for all is enshrined in our constitution. The authorities concerned should ensure the same lest people take law and order in their hands for self-protection.

Tarlok Singh, Chandigarh

Social awareness needed

The recent case of rape and murder of a 10-year-old girl is despicable. Perpetrators of such crimes are mostly migrants, who are bereft of family support, or drug addicts, who do not know what they were doing. They would be lynched in case people catch them. Social awareness alone could help check such incidents.

Tarsem Bhardwaj, Chandigarh

Tricity women not safe

Almost one year after the infamous Nirbhaya Delhi gang-rape case, the tricity girls are still unsafe. Pinki's case sent shockwaves and fear among the women living in the tricity. The accused, who take a sadistic pleasure, must not be spared and should be subjected to the toughest punishment.

Dr Shruti K Chawla, Chandigarh

Run special buses for women

The Chandigarh police have organised many meetings in schools, colleges and other educational institutions to raise awareness and save girl students from meeting a fate as unfortunate as that of Pinki's. There is a need to take such initiatives in other areas of the city too. Most of such incidents happen in the villages and colonies in the city's periphery. The recent case of Pinki's murder too pertained to Palsora village, near the border of Punjab. Special buses should be run for women, particularly at night. Regular checkings should be conducted on such buses to instill a sense of fear among drivers and conductors and to ensure safety to girls.

Sukhpal Singh, Chandigarh

Hang rapists

The Chandigarh Administration has virtually failed in checking such crimes. There is a greater need for masses to wake up to protest against this heinous crime to compel the government to enact stringent laws like capital punishment for rapists, to save our girls. This will act as deterrent to such crimes. Women need not suffer in silence anymore.

SK Khosla, Chandigarh

Need for a system to deter such crimes

Despite the tall claims of the Administration that provisions have been made to ensure safety of citizens, the ever-growing criminality towards women and children in the recent times has drastically shaken our belief in such claims. We need to have a system wherein anti-social elements should be scared of committing a crime.

MPS Chadha, Mohali

Society needs to change attitude towards women

Crimes against women are increasing by the day. The recent case of physical assault and murder of 10-year-old Pinki at Palsora village is yet another shocker. Strict laws are not enough unless each one of us changes our attitude towards women.

Madhu RD Singh, Ambala Cantt

Child rapists deserve death sentence

The criminals who abuse children for their perverse pleasures should not be shown any mercy and may be sent to gallows.

Ravinder Nath, Chandigarh

Parents should be more vigilant

In my opinion, the foremost responsibility about the safety of a child lies with the parents. They should be more alert and vigilant about the whereabouts of their children. Both the parents and the police should be more vigilant and quick in action. They should take preventive measures.

RK Gupta, Chandigarh

Hold intensive police patrolling

To ensure safety of girls in the city, the police has a major role to play. It should conduct intensive patrolling, particularly during evenings and nights, to create a sense of fear among anti-social elements and prevent crimes. Parents also must keep track of the movement of their children, as police cannot be present everywhere. At least, young children must not be allowed to go out alone in the evenings. Safety saves.

IPS Anand, Mani Majra

Police lacks professionalism

Investigations by the police leave much to be desired. Instead of attending funerals and bhog ceremonies of such victims, it would be better if the police force develops some element of professionalism and more than that, sensitivity to such unfortunate incidents.

SC Luthra, MHC, Mani Majra

Incidents outcome of lack of values among youth

The incident was really an inhumane. Such incidents are happening due to lack of values in the young generation. Our school syllabus must contain chapters involving the contents of human values like showing respect to girls, removing discrimination between boys and girls etc. In India, cinema can help greatly in raising morality among today's youth.

Miksha Ranga Jassal, Ambala City

Keep a check on migrants

There have been many such cases in the city in the past where migrant labourers/rickshaw-pullers have been arrested for raping minors and then murdering them. The police must keep a strict vigil on the activities of the migrants in the city. Crimes against women will certainly come down considerably with such precautions.

RK Kapoor, Chandigarh

Reform anti-social elements

It is indeed very painful and shocking to read about sexual harassment and brutal attack on girls. Anti-social elements should be nabbed and reformed by sensitising them to the plight of the victims.

Priya Darsh Growar, Mohali

open house question

Whenever there is a major examination in Chandigarh, chaos spills on to city roads and those in the periphery. This brings traffic to a standstill. Not only private transport vehicles, students too are stranded, as there is no public transport connecting the city with the peripheral areas. What needs to be done to prevent such a chaotic situation in future? Send your suggestions along with a clear passport size picture to openhouse@tribunemail.com

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Pending Demands
SSA, computer teachers meet Bansal
Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 15
The Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan Teachers Welfare Association (SSATWA) met Chandigarh MP Pawan Kumar Bansal to request him to take up the long-pending issue of regularisation of 1,228 Junior Basic Teachers (JBTs) and Trained Graduate Teachers (TGTs) working on a contractual basis under the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan Society, Chandigarh.

In a request letter to Bansal, a delegation of the association informed him about the delay in the regularisation of SSA teachers, though the MHRD Secretary, New Delhi, in the meeting of the Project Approval Board held on March 14, 2011, had directed the Education Department to appoint all teachers working on posts sanctioned under the SSA on a regular basis.

He has also been informed that on August 26, 2011, the Executive Committee, SSA Society, UT, Chandigarh, had passed the agenda and asked the Education Department to get sanction from the Secretary, MHRD, and shift the teachers from the SSA Society to the Education Department. But two years have passed and it has not been done yet.

Arvind Rana, president of SSATWA, said: “The MP assured the delegation that he will take up the issue with both the Chandigarh Administration and the MHRD, New Delhi”.

Meanwhile, computer teachers, who are protesting for the past three days, also met the MP separately and asked him to take up their issues on a priority basis.aDuring the interaction, the computer teachers raised the issue of delay in their salary and job security since their contracts are renewed every month. They asked his intervention for increase in their salary on a par with contractual teachers. The teachers said the MP assured them of sorting out their matter on a priority basis.

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Tiny tots leave audience spellbound

Mohali, December 15
Tiny tots of pre-nursery, nursery and KG left the audience spellbound by their performance at Kilkari ’13 at Manav Mangal Smart School here today.

The show began with the school presentation, followed by a prayer dance, “ae maseeha tera asara mil gaya”. The well-choreographed steps and expressions of the students were appreciated. “Aashaaye,” an item dedicated to the soldiers who relentlessly worked day and night to rescue people in Uttarakhand, was appreciated for its synchronised steps, dresses and the confidence with which the students performed.

“The Magic of Kishore”, the ever-favourite, was given tributes by nursery class students on a fun number, “Cheel Cheel Chilla Ke”, an item which won applause for its choreography, attire, zest and grace of performance. “Dheeyan Da Satkar” performed by KG class was an item dedicated to love, nurture and care for girl child.

“Mother Earth” performed by the Nursery class inspired one and all to love and protect Mother Earth.

A fashion show on the theme of colours was applauded for the wonderful costumes and the panache with which such small children walked the ramp.

“Aerobics, the fitness mantra,” wherein the tiny tots inspired everyone to gear up and do some exercise, was highly appreciated. Around 800 students took part in the show. — OC

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'Dance of Democracy' staged

Chandigarh, December 15
A play, “Dance of Democracy”, was staged on the second day of the annual function of Ashiana Public School at Moti Ram Arya School, Sector 27, today. The play written by Justice Mahesh Grover conveyed a strong message that freedom is meaningful if the system responds to the needs of society. Otherwise, it is like an unbridled horse on the rampage, and then the “dance of democracy” becomes akin to Lord Shiva's dance of destruction. Justice Mahesh Grover, who graced the occasion as the chief guest, enjoyed the play and was full of praise for each and every performance.

The overall theme for the annual function conveyed the message that every child is born with a uniqueness that needs to be identified, cultivated and provided the right platform to bloom. The uniqueness, if permitted to become strength, can make a child happy and satisfied, living every moment of life to the hilt. Dramas with patriotic and environment themes also left everyone’s heart filled with love and pride for their motherland. — TNS

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FROM SCHOOLS

Annual play
Students of Tribune Model School perform during a cultural programme at the Tagore Theatre in Sector 18, Chandigarh.
Students of Tribune Model School perform during a cultural programme at the Tagore Theatre in Sector 18, Chandigarh. Tribune photo: Pradeep tewari

In a spectacular show, 190 students of Classes VII to X of Tribune Model School unfolded the rich tradition and culture of India in their annual play “Panchratna” directed by Vijay Kumar at the Tagore theatre, Sector 18, Chandigarh, recently. The play was coordinated by Japinder Sharma. “Panchratna” depicted that all a human being needs to do is to evolve his character with the five jewels of right conduct - duty, devotion, discipline, determination and discrimination to excel in life. The life of the five protagonists of “Panchratna” revolves around a value, which became his way of life. The students exemplified thought-provoking messages from the lives of the disciplined archer Arjun, dutiful Shravan Kumar, determined Dhruv, discriminating Nachiketa, and devotion of Bhagat Prahlad through splendid combination of songs, dance and plays. The music by Atul Dubey stung life into the performance.

Sports Day observed

Sports Day was observed at SMD Little Champ School, Sector 2, in Panchkula on Sunday. It witnessed an enthusiastic participation of tiny toddlers. A total of 28 children participated in various forms of games, which included lemon race, run for banana, jalebi race, sack race and tug-of-war. The school staff also participated in various games, mainly tug-of-war. Naresh Gupta, director of the school, felicitated the winners with medals and certificates.

Musical day

Students of Oakridge International School, Mohali, enthralled the audience with their endearing and enthusiastic performance in the musical day of the school at the Tagore Theatre. The students of the school created a beautiful ambience through their performance. They astonished the audience with their smart and synchronised movement in the school band performance. Oak Street musical dance by students was the main attraction for the audience. Theme-based dance and jugalbani stole the show, especially depicting their love for music.

Prize distribution function

Kendriya Vidyalaya, Dappar (Mohali), celebrated its annual prize distribution function with zeal and fervour. Colonel Rishi Raj Yadav inaugurated the function by lighting the ceremonial lamp. Principal Samerjit Kaur welcomed the chief guest.

Honesty and Discipline Week

Students of Class IV of Saupin’s School, Mohali, staged a wonderful show to celebrate Honesty and Discipline Week. A number of events were based on the theme of honesty and discipline. The programme commenced with a prayer “showers of blessings” sung by children. It was followed by a Hindi play based on “honesty and discipline”.

Workshop on healthy cooking

AKIPS, Mohali, organised a workshop on healthy cooking and eating for its staff members. Renowned chef Umesh Singla demonstrated various healthy and tasty recipes. He also shared with them the technique of preparing 99 per cent bacteria-free food and explained the importance of consuming nutritionally rich and well-balanced diet to enrich one’s life. - TNS 

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Ballet performance focuses on environment conservation
Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 15
On the third day of its annual function, students of Delhi Public School, Sector 40, left the audience spellbound with their ballet performance, “Prakriti”, encapsulating the theme “nature - as a bountiful giver in contrast to the self-centeredness of man”.

It carried the message that nature gives unconditionally to the mankind, but in turn they have degenerated it. It focused on the vital issue of environment conservation.

Dr MM Pallam Raju, Union Minister of Human Resource Development, presided over as the chief guest for the day. Congress leader Ambika Soni, MP Pawan Kumar Bansal, Uday C Soni, Pro-vice-chairman, DPS, Chandigarh, and other distinguished guests graced the occasion.

The school annual report highlighted the milestones achieved by the school. The brochure and the school journal were also released on the occasion.

The celebrations began with the school choir presenting a melodious rendition, followed by the ballet performance.

The show was a musical confluence of soulful expression, a fine combination of lively dances, excellent light design, vibrant costumes and excellent showmanship. The mesmerising charm and arresting performance of the students witnessed an unceasing applause.

The chief guest lauded the efforts of the students. He also congratulated the principal and appreciated the success the school has achieved in all spheres.

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A journey down memory lane for GCG-11 alumni
Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 15
The Alumni Association of the Post Graduate Government College for Girls (PGGCG), Sector 11, organised its annual meet here today. More than 100 alumni attended the meet. It was a matter of pride for the college seeing its students well-placed in different professions, including civil services, public sector, medicine, judiciary, education, creative arts, corporate and entrepreneurship. These alumni gathered at the alumni meet and had nostalgic moments.

The alumni who passed out in the 1964-66 batch shared their thoughts with the present students. Rasneet Kaur, an alumnus who graduated in 2000, thanked the institution for her progress in career. She is currently heading a software company with offshoots in the US and she was honoured with the Woman Entrepreneur of India Award by the STPI in 2011.

The organising committee held events to refresh their memories of student life like instrumental fusion music, tambola, dance. The special attraction was musical chairs that had maximum participation and was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

The participation ranged from the students who had passed out from the college in the early 60s to the ones who had passed out last year. In addition, many former principals and retired teachers of the college were also present as alumni.

The alumni who are currently serving as principals and teachers in various institutions also attended the event.

The joy of meeting their teachers after such a long time span was visible on the faces of the alumni. The alumni also shared their experiences and gave credit to the college and faculty for their success. Achila Dogra, principal of the college, felt overwhelmed by an enthusiasm of the alumni and thanked them for sparing their time and making the event a great success.

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Students get placements
Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 15
The GGS College of Management and Technology (GGSCMT) has got the distinction of getting placement for 53 of its students with different companies within the campus.

The college is first in Punjab to have set up the Campus Business Park (CBP) last year, which helps students from second and third year to start working in companies within the campus and get salaries as well.

The college now plans to tie-up with more companies next month, besides organising a road show, along with CBP, in Chandigarh to encourage young entrepreneurs keen on fresh startups.

Among the companies who have set up their offices on the college campus are Phi Infosoft Pvt Ltd, E-Drona and Nexgensigma. 

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Chinese delegation to visit Panjab varsity today
Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, December 15
A Chinese delegation from the Henan Province of China, comprising Hao Lijun, Deputy Director-General, Foreign and Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of Henan Provincial People’s Government, Zhao Jiayu, Director-General, Foreign and Overseas Chinese Affairs Office of Hebi Municipal People’s Government, Huang Xia, Director-General, Foreign and Overseas Chinese Affairs of Shangqiu Municipal People’s Government and Zhao Qingshan, Henan People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, will visit Panjab University on December 16.

The delegation will reach the office of the Vice-Chancellor by 11.30 AM and have a formal meeting with PU officials to explore the possibilities to sign a MoU between Panjab University and Henan University, Kaifeng.

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Over 2,500 appear for talent search exam

Chandigarh, December 15
Over 2,500 students participated in the Young Talent Search Exam-2013 organised by Aakash Institute in Sector 34 and other venues in the tricity.

Students of Classes VII, VIII and IX appeared for the exam, whose objective was to recognise the talent of brilliant students.

A sum of Rs 1 lakh would be awarded to the topper from each class, whereas students ranking second to fifth in each class would be awarded with a cash prize of Rs 75,000 each. Students placed sixth to 10th in each class would be given Rs 50,000 each. — TNS

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