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Life crippled in snow-bound city
Train services remain hit on second day
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Hoteliers to invite officials to discuss Srinagar master plan
JKLF, Hurriyat distribute relief to Hazratbal fire victims
Transport operators defer indefinite strike till next Cabinet meeting
Workers want DA exempted from income tax ambit
keeping
a check on illegal parking
PDP accuses govt of neglecting passengers stranded at bus stand
Tourism associations hail Jammu fest organisers’ efforts
Doda college students forced to take exam in freezing weather
Attack on Pakistani prisoner: SSP told to submit action taken report
Will leave nothing to chance to ensure peace: Army
Moderate quake hits Doda
Urban Local Bodies’ employees defer stir
JU official given warm send-off
State Cong to meet high command, opposes pre-poll alliance with NC
Govt panel proposals to amend anti-graft Act an eyewash: HC
Army focusing on reducing collateral damage in 2014
BSF constable commits suicide
Police to conduct census in border villages
Man’s murder: Wife accuses police of delaying probe
Arrangements for Indian Science Congress reviewed
Stranded labourers rue government apathy
Kidnapped girl raped, traced to Lakhanpur
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Life crippled in snow-bound city
Omar chaired the meeting of divisional officers here this afternoon and reviewed the measures put in place by the administration, including road clearance operation, supply of electricity and drinking water, supply of essential commodities, functioning of health institutions, status of the Srinagar-Jammu Highway and plying of traffic on various district routes and inside the city here. The region received heavy snowfall in the past 24 hours, causing blockade of highway, suspension of air traffic and snapping of power supply to many parts. Omar asked the officers of the government to be “prompt and responsive” to the requirements of people on all counts, an official spokesman said. “The road clearance and restoration of important public services that have been affected by heavy snowfall should be the first concern of the government officials,” the Chief Minister said. “There is an urgent need of keeping an eye on hoarders, black-marketers and unscrupulous elements who utilise the unfavourable situation for increasing the prices and creating false scarcity of essential commodities,” Abdullah said, while directing the divisional administration to be vigilant and make regular market checks a necessary daily feature. Omar received a brief about the action taken by the administration to “mitigate difficulties on various counts” as also its preparedness to be alert to face eventualities. “The Chief Minister was told that 80 per cent power supply will be restored in the Valley by this evening while it will be 90 per cent in Srinagar and North Kashmir districts,” the spokesman said. The Chief Minister also received a report about the necessary relief extended to the fire victims of the Hazratbal locality. Omar sanctioned a relief of Rs 20,000 each to the 32 families, whose houses were gutted in the devastating fire, the spokesman said.
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Train services remain hit on second day
Srinagar, January 1 The railway authorities on Tuesday had also pressed snow cutter machine into service to clear the railway track near Qazigund in south Kashmir. “The rail operation from Banihal to Baramulla remained suspended for the second day today,” a railway official said. “We are in the process of clearing the track and hopefully the train would partially resume its service from tomorrow,” he added. The officer said it might take some more days before the three trains that ply in Kashmir between Baramulla and Banihal resume their full operations. The eight-coach DMU (diesel multiple unit) trains make 14 trips everyday between Baramulla and Banihal. The train is the most reliable and favourite mode of commuting in the state as nearly 12,000 people travel in the trains every day. |
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Hoteliers to invite officials to discuss Srinagar master plan
Srinagar, January 1 JKHC chairman Mushtaq Ahmad Chaya said the decision to invite the officials was taken during a recent meeting of the club which was held to discuss environmental concerns and the master plans of Srinagar and Pahalgam. Even though JKHC members expressed satisfaction about the de-sealing of hotels having up to 19 rooms, they demanded that the number of rooms be increased to 30. The hoteliers urged the Pollution Control Board was to revive their by-laws, wherein 40 to 50 rooms could function provided they were in three blocks and had sufficient infrastructure of septic tanks and soakage pits. Nearly 100 city-based hoteliers had been told to suspend commercial activities earlier this month for not following the standard procedures for STP on their premises. However, later, hotels having up to 19 rooms were allowed to function without individual STPs. The hoteliers have |
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JKLF, Hurriyat distribute relief to Hazratbal fire victims
Srinagar, January 1 The Jammu Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF), led by Muhammad Yasin Malik, distributed Rs 5 lakh and blankets among the victims. Malik, who led the relief work, said the “magnitude” of damage was very high and appealed to the people to “generously donate” towards the victims. A delegation of hardline Hurriyat Conference also visited the fire victims and distributed blankets among them. Fourteen houses and five sheds were damaged in a fire that had spread across the Dhobi Ghat locality in Hazratbal area on Monday morning.
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Transport operators defer indefinite strike till next Cabinet meeting
Jammu, January 1 The decision to this effect was taken at a ‘Core Group’ meeting of Jammu Province Transport Welfare Association here this morning. Transport operators had earlier announced to start an indefinite strike from January 2. “We had a meeting this morning, where it was decided that transport operators would wait till the next Cabinet meeting, which is likely to be held next week. Yesterday, the transport minister had assured us that he will take up the matter vis-à-vis revision of passenger fare with the Cabinet in its next meeting, which will give final approval to hike passenger fares,” Vijay Sharma, general secretary, Jammu Province Transport Welfare Association, told The Tribune. It was also decided that the transport operators would wait till the next Cabinet meeting and if their demands are not considered by then, they would devise a future course of action thereafter, he said. On Tuesday, a delegation of transport operators, led by Bharat Bhushan Gupta, vice-chairman of the association, called on the Minister for Transport Choudhary Mohammad Ramzan and put forth their demand for revision of passenger fares. The minister had assured transporters that a “holistic view” of their demands would be taken to redress their demand. Others, who were part of the delegation, included Anil Chopra, Vijay Sharma, Davinder Singh, KD Singh and DK Mehta. The transporters have been demanding a 40% hike in passenger fare, pleading that they were not in a position to ply vehicles due to steep hike in petroleum price. They said the Centre was increasing the diesel rate every month and during the past one year, it has been increased by Rs 7.50 per litre adding that it was becoming difficult to ply vehicles on existing rates. According to the transport association, there are around 70,000 passenger vehicles, including taxis, auto-rickshaws, buses and mini-buses across Jammu and Kashmir. In view of inadequate government-owned passenger transport facilities, these vehicles are considered as a lifeline of the state.
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Workers want DA exempted from income tax ambit
Jammu, January 1 He urged upon the Union Finance Minister to reconsider the practice for the benefit of employees and pensioners of the Central and state governments. Addressing a rally at Gole Market Park, Shastri said that price escalation and massive inflation in the country were directly linked to the DA of
the salaried class and pensioners. He added that there was no justification of imposing income tax of DA. Shastri also demanded 20% interim relief to the Central and state government employees and pensioners, merger of 50% DA into basic pay/pension and enhancement of monthly wages of daily wagers to Rs 10,000 in the next budget. While referring to the immediate amendment of SRO 64, Shastri appealed to the Chief Minister to formulate comprehensive policy for regularisation of all daily wagers/casual and seasonal labour engaged in road and buildings, irrigation, floriculture, PDD and other state government departments. Other demands of NMC, included release of 10% DA, nominating a chairman and other members of the 7th Pay Commission, enhancing medical allowance, release of third installment of 6th Pay Commission arrears, release of pending wages of casual labour working in road and buildings, irrigation and social forestry departments. |
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Jammu bus stand cries for attention
Jammu, January 1 Every time it rains, the area is flooded with water and it turns into a cesspool, filled with stinking solid waste and mud. The unhygienic condition at the bus stand reveals the tale of the indifferent attitude of authorities towards this place. Heaps of garbage lying everywhere, pot-holed road, stagnant water, blocked drains and passengers sitting on dirty platform in unhygienic condition is a common scene at one of the busiest bus-stands in the northern India. Thousands of passengers throng the place everyday and the civic bodies, responsible for the upkeep of the area, does not care it seems. Several homeless people and beggars can be seen here, who live under pathetic condition. Almost all inter-state vehicles, including vehicles from Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Delhi, operate from the bus stand, spreading over 52 kanal land, but in absence of proper sanitation, the area reeks of garbage. The Jammu Bus Stand was inaugurated in 1971 and is considered city’s central point. Few years ago, the government, under a plan had decided to increase the area of the bus stand and demolish some of the structures so that a new building and a shopping complex could be built, but the projects faced opposition from shopkeepers. The plan to cover the drain flowing through the area is also hanging fire. “Hundreds of rehri-phari owners have encroached upon almost every space at the bus stand leaving no space for passengers. Many people leave their bedding and luggage and stay here for days together,” rued Kuljit Brar, who has a shop at the bus stand. When contacted, Jammu municipal commissioner Kiran Wattal, was not
available for comments. |
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keeping
a check on illegal parking
Jammu, January 1 The Tribune highlight the issue several times, wherein people openly flouted rules by parking vehicles on roads, leading to congestion, thereby making it difficult for the police to streamline vehicular movement. Tall claims made by senior traffic police officers in taking “innovative measures” to deal with the problem have failed so far. Few years ago, plastic dividers were installed to encourage lane driving, but they could not stand the test of time even for few months. Even the traffic signals installed recently have proved a failure. Offences such as non-use of crash helmets, negligent driving, inappropriate number plates and drunken driving go unchecked, as the traffic police and other enforcement agencies have failed to stop and impose a fine on them. |
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PDP accuses govt of neglecting passengers stranded at bus stand
Jammu, January 1 Addressing a press conference, party city president Vikram Singh alleged that administration was aware of the
fact that during winter months, people get stuck due to closure of the highway, but nothing has been done to provide shelter and food to them. Singh alleged that the government has failed
to provide basic facilities to stranded passengers, who were forced to buy eatables and even water bottles at exorbitant rates. He further said that basic infrastructure was crumbling across the city and there were frequent power cuts during the harsh winter season. “Residents of ward 2, 3,4,10,11 and 19 in the old city are the worst sufferers as these areas have not witnessed any development,” Singh said. “Local MLA has failed to ensure proper facilities, which is a matter of concern because crores of rupees have been sanctioned for the purpose,” Singh further alleged. |
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Tourism associations hail Jammu fest organisers’ efforts
Jammu, January 1 In a joint statement issued here yesterday Inderjeet Khajuria, president All Jammu Hotels and Lodges Association; Kuldeep Vahi, president Jammu Hotels, Restaurants and Bar Associations; Ravi Mahajan president Paryatan Vikas Mandal and Ashiq Hussain Khan; president Talab Khatikan Hoteliers Union have thanked the tourism minister GA Mir for holding the tourism festival after a gap of five years. They have also thanked and congratulated the director, tourism, Sojanaya Sharma for making all out efforts to make the festival successful by organising programmes by local artists to showcase the culture and heritage of J&K state, and Jammu region in
particular. —TNS |
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Efforts on to tap tourism potential of Jammu region: Deputy CM
Shiv Khori (Katra), January 1 The Deputy Chief Minister visited Shiv Khori in Reasi district and offered prayers at the shrine today afternoon. He reviewed the ongoing development works at the shrine. Tara Chand said efforts were being made by the government to develop and promote the scenic spot. He said the Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board (SSKSB) had launched various projects to create and upgrade the facilities for the pilgrims. “The need of the hour is to promote heritage tourism and to take the tourists beyond Katra. Mega projects have been launched to upgrade tourism infrastructure in places such as Shiv Khori and Budha Amarnath and efforts were afoot to bring the region on the tourism map,” he said while addressing mediapersons at Shiv Khori. “The Dogra land has a rich cultural history and it needs to be preserved for the next generation and to attract the tourists,” he said. The Deputy Chief Minister said the nation was indebted to Mahatma Gandhi who fought against the British and won freedom without any war, adding that the path of non-violence shown by the Mahatma is being followed all over the world for settling mutual differences. He inquired from pilgrims about the facilities and toldd to them to be the ambassadors of peace for the state. He said the number of pilgrims to the shrine was increasing each day and was expected to touch new heights in the coming year. Tara Chand said it was a matter of great satisfaction that the Shiv Khori shrine was emerging as the second largest pilgrimage destination after the Vaishno Devi shrine. The SSKSB has taken up a number of development works which include construction of a sarai, shelter sheds, toilet facilities, provision of drinking water and power supply. |
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Doda college students forced to take exam in freezing weather
Jammu, January 1 Nearly 20 per cent of the students, including women, failed to appear in the exam at Government Degree College (GDC), Doda, following heavy snowfall and closure of roads in the district. In GDC, Kishtwar, too students wrote their exam in sub-zero temperature as there was no heating arrangement in examination halls. The authorities at the helm of the affairs didn't bother to pay heed to the request by Principal, Government Degree College, Doda, to postpone the exam till improvement in
weather condition. The Principal of the college has decided to file a complaint against the controller of examinations, University of Jammu, who, according to him, even didn't listen to his requests while his deputy remained adamant on conducting the exam of the English paper amid harsh weather conditions. The Kishtwar, Doda and Ramban districts received around 3 feet of snow yesterday, resulting in intense cold conditions and closure of roads in the areas. "On Monday evening, we got calls from students living in far-off places of the district to know about the exam schedule in view of the inclement weather conditions. Yesterday, I called up the controller of examinations, but he didn't respond to my repeated phone calls. Later, I called up his personal assistant but he also didn't bother to give an ear to my request of postponing the exam till improvement in weather conditions," said Syed Zahir Abbas Qureshi, Principal of GDC, Doda. Prof Keshav Sharma, controller of examinations, however, said they had brought the matter to the notice of the Vice Chancellor. "We have a very tight examination schedule as the annual exams of undergraduate courses are beginning from March 3. It was not viable for us to cancel the examination. We have decided to set up a special centre for the students who failed to reach their examination centres," Sharma said. |
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Vaishno Devi varsity VC calls on Governor
Jammu, January 1 Professor Jain briefed the Governor about the to-date status of the ongoing infrastructure development projects at the university and the broad approach being developed for admissions to the next academic session. The Governor advised Jain to take all required measures to raise the standards of teaching and research. He also reiterated his view that the postgraduate students be given maximum possible exposure through participation in competitions and other activities, raising their academic standards and confidence to execute projects on their own. |
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Attack on Pakistani prisoner: SSP told to submit action taken report
Srinagar, January 1 The orders of a division bench of the high court comprising Justice Muzaffar Hussain Attar and Justice Tashi Rabstan came following the perusal of the compliance report of the Superintendent, District Jail, Jammu, wherein he has submitted that matter about the incident had been brought to the notice of the SSP for necessary action. In its earlier orders on November 2, 2013, the high court had directed the Amphala District Jail and Kot Bhalwal Central Jail in Jammu for taking steps to ensure the safety of foreign nationals lodged in the two jails. The jail authorities were also asked to file affidavits on what action was taken on the basis of an application filed by a Pakistani national lodged in District Jail, Jammu, about the alleged assault by some person when he was taken to a court in Jammu for trial in a pending criminal case. “The perusal of the communication… would show that matter about the incident has been brought to the notice of the SSP, Jammu… reminder has also been sent to the SSP, Jammu, on November 14, 2013”, the bench observed in its fresh orders made available today after perusing the affidavits of the jail authorities. “What action has been taken by the SSP, Jammu, has not been brought to the notice of the court. The SSP, Jammu, shall inform the court about what action has been taken on the communication of the Superintendent, District Jail, Jammu. The status report should be filed before the next date,” the bench said in its orders while posting the matter for further consideration to the first week of February, 2014. In his compliance report, the Superintendent, District Jail, had also stated that Pakistani prisoner Jameel Ahmad Awan, alias Dhheraj, hailing from Abbottabad, Pakistan, lodged in his jail was taken to the court of the Principal Sessions Judge, Jammu, on September 28, 2013, under police escort and a scuffle took place on the court premises. “The under trial prisoner after having been brought to the jail was medically examined by doctors of Government Medical Hospital, Sarwal,” he said in the report while adding that the matter was also brought to the notice of the SSP, Jammu.
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Will leave nothing to chance to ensure peace: Army
Security forces officers are apprehensive that militant attacks in the state will increase after the US exit from Afghanistan this year. They fear that more militants might turn to Kashmir after the US troops withdraw. “We have factored in all related possibilities and likely resultant impacts on the security situation in Kashmir. We, as a responsible force, are collectively geared up to take on the challenges and will leave nothing to chance to ensure peace sustains in the Valley,” the GOC of 15 Corps said in an interview to The Tribune. He said the Army would keep a close watch on the situation that would emerge after the withdrawal of the US troops from Afghanistan. “It is a well-known fact that the inimical forces would try their best to disrupt and discredit the democratic forces in the country. We, as an important stakeholder in the Valley and being the prime security agency here, will be keeping a close eye on the developments,” Lt General Singh said. On the upcoming elections in the state, the GOC said: “As far as the forthcoming Assembly and general elections are
concerned, we have a limited role and our prime focus will be to provide a secure environment in conjunction with other security forces.” |
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Doda, January 1 “There was no report of any loss in the earthquake,” said Gulam Nabi Balwan, Additional District Development Commissioner, Doda. “Instructions have already been given to all tehsil officers to create local disaster management cells for easy communication,” the official said. “We got scared as after a few months a quake jolted our houses early morning today,” said Ishtiwaq Malik, Blessa resident. — OC |
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Urban Local Bodies’ employees defer stir
Srinagar, January 1 Jammu and Kashmir Local Bodies Employees United Forum (JKLBEUF) president Manzoor Ahmad Pampori today said they had postponed their protest programme in view of snow clearance works so that the public was not put to any inconvenience. “Even though our salaries have not been paid for the past four months, we have decided not to go on strike and stage protests as our men are required to clear snow from the roads for the convenience of the people,” Pampori said. Pampori, however, said they would go on strike from January 9 in
case their demands were not met. He said despite holding frequent protests in the past, their pleas had fallen on deaf ears. He threatened to intensify protests and call for a “decisive” agitation programme. The forum demands include implementation of service recruitment rules, release of 20 per cent arrears under the sixth pay commission, setting up of a transparent transfer policy within the department and regularisation of daily wagers and consolidated employees having more than 15 years of service in the department. The forum is also demanding time-bound settlement of pension and commutation cases besides timely release of salaries. According to the earlier schedule of the Local Bodies Employees United Forum, employees of 45 municipal committees and councils of the Valley were supposed to come out on the streets tomorrow to press for their demands.
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JU official given warm send-off
Jammu, January 1 A farewell function was organised in appreciation of his services. Sunil Sahi, president of the union hailed the contribution of Khajuria. Manoj Chauhan, general secretary, Ravi Gupta, vice president, Ashwani Bakshi, joint secretary, Pervesh Ratta, organising secretary, Abhinav Sharma, treasurer and executive members of the Union were present during the function. Khajuria expressed his gratitude to all those who stood by him during his long service in the university and thanked |
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State Cong to meet high command, opposes pre-poll alliance with NC
Jammu, January 1 The party leaders have also decided to expose “deceitful tactics” of the NC to weaken the Congress in its strongholds, especially the erstwhile Doda district which is native place of Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad. The erstwhile Doda district constitutes of Doda, Ramban and Kishtwar districts. “Despite running a coalition with us, the NC has been brazenly indulging in hatching conspiracies to weaken the Congress in the erstwhile Doda district,” G M Saroori, MLA from Inderwal, alleged while adding that “any alliance with the NC would be prove disastrous for the party”. Saroori, a staunch supporter of Azad, disclosed that soon a delegation of Congress leaders would visit Delhi to inform the high command about the “misdeeds” of the coalition partner. “Besides meeting national leaders, we will take up the issue in the coming AICC convention on January 17. The convention will be an appropriate platform to caution the high command against having a pre-poll alliance in J&K,” he said. The NC and the Congress have been running a coalition for the last five years. As the countdown for the 2014 Assembly elections has started, the Congress has stepped up pressure on the high command against continuing the alliance for the elections. Interestingly, the faction-ridden Congress has presented a united face to oppose a pre-poll alliance with the NC. “During our meeting with AICC secretary and in charge of party affairs in J&K Mainul Haque, we made it clear that the Congress was capable of defeating all parties in J&K under the leadership of Ghulam Nabi Azad and Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) chief Saifuddin Soz,” Saroori said. Chairman of the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council-Kargil (LAHDC-K) Asgar Ali Karbalaie said the experiment of Kargil would be put before the high command to oppose a pre-poll alliance with the NC. During the LAHDC-K elections, held in September last year, the NC and the Congress fought against each other. The Congress scripted history in the elections by winning 10 seats and managed a majority with the support of Independents. “By winning elections in Kargil, we have proved that the Congress is strong enough to defeat any party--- be it the coalition partner or any opposition party,” he said, adding that “instead of depending upon others, we should form our own government in J&K”. “We will explain to the high command that the outcome of Kargil
elections is a clear indication that the Congress is the only party which has a following in all regions and sub-regions of J&K,” he said. |
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Govt panel proposals to amend anti-graft Act an eyewash: HC
Srinagar, January 1 Directing the government to reconsider the whole issue, the court said the menace of corruption could be effectively fought only when the laws made to deal with it were effective and deterrent
in nature. The court said the suggestions recorded by the bench in its orders on July 4, 2013, which were aimed at strengthening anti-corruption laws in the state, had not been given “effective consideration” by the government-appointed committee while finalising its recommendations to the government. The suggestions on the proposed amendments to be made to the Prevention of Corruption Act, 2006, by the high court in its July 4 orders included making bail provisions in anti-corruption cases stringent and parallel to the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substance Act. Subsequently, a committee headed by the Chief Secretary was constituted to study the high court suggestions for amending the Anti-Corruption Act and make suggestions accordingly. “The status report filed by the state government would show that the suggestions (recorded by the division bench on July 4 at the bar with a direction that government will keep them in mind while making recommendations for amending the Act) have not been given effective consideration,” a division bench comprising Justice Verinder Singh and Justice Muzaffar Attar observed in its fresh orders made available today. “It (status report) would further show that the provisions of the Central Prevention of Corruption Act have been physically lifted therefrom and are
proposed to be made part of the State Prevention of Corruption Act,” the bench observed after perusal of the status report and the
recommendations of the Committee. The court observed that the menace of corruption could be effectively fought only when the laws, made to deal with it, were effective and deterrent in nature. “The recommendations made by the Committee to the government would be the least effective in tackling the menace of corruption… to us the recommendations for making amendments to the Prevention of Corruption Act appear to be an eyewash,” the bench said in its order while directing the state government to “reconsider the whole issue” in the light of suggestions made by the court. “We hope and trust the (J&K) state government will take lead and guide the rest of the country by making the Prevention of Corruption Act more stringent and effective,” the court observed while directing the Chief
Secretary to take into consideration the observations made in the fresh order and proceed in the matter to secure the public interest. The matter has been listed for further consideration on February 10, 2014.
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Army focusing on reducing collateral damage in 2014
Srinagar, January 1 The Hyderpora attack on the Army convoy in June, 2013, in particular is being described as the defining moment in the security set-up in the Valley. It caught the Army off-guard and catalysed a serious rethink over the tactical responses by it in such situations. “The Hyderpora attack was a defining moment as far as the militant attacks on the security forces, particularly the Army is concerned. The hard lesson learnt is to generate effective tactical responses by the Army if caught in such scenarios again, besides minimising the collateral damage,” a senior Army officer based in Srinagar said. Though initially Hizbul Mujahedeen claimed the responsibility for the attack, police later said the attack was carried out by the Lashkar-e-Toiba militants. The incident triggered a serious rethink in the security establishment, particularly the Army that has to pass convoys carrying troops and supplies on daily basis from densely populated urban areas of the Valley. Officials said the Army in Kashmir was now working on minimising civilian casualties and damages to civilian properties during anti-militancy operations, while simultaneously focusing on addressing the issue of human rights violation. “The philosophy is to minimise the collateral damage in 2014 and reduce the human rights violations. Even if that means letting off a militant, the Army is ready to pay the price. But there are now strict instructions from the Corp Commander to reduce or minimise the collateral damage,” a senior Army Officer said on the condition of anonymity. “The policy is to allow and give local militants time to lay down the arms and surrender,” the officer said. He, however, insisted that the Army will focus on eliminating the foreign militants. “There is also a concerted effort at all levels in the Army to sensitise jawans towards the human rights of the local populace in Kashmir,” he added. The officer, however, maintained that despite the new philosophy, challenges and apprehensions remain. While the cross-border infiltration and militant attacks remain a challenge for the armed forces in J&K, security analysts, particularly the senior Army officers engaged in the counter-insurgency operations, are concerned about the possible fallout of the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. Besides maintaining transparency, particularly on issues related to human rights violations, Army’s role during the upcoming parliamentary and Assembly elections in J&K in 2014 is being viewed as a biggest challenge. |
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Jammu, January 1 He also discussed with the Governor matters relating to the upcoming Zojila Tunnel and the creation of some facilities at the Baltal camp. — TNS
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BSF constable commits suicide
Rajouri, January 1 The constable has been identified as Kansi Kumar, a resident of Patna in Bihar. He was posted with the 80 Battalion of the BSF. Sources said the deceased was on night duty at the Dadal forward post and around 11:30 pm yesterday shot himself with his service rifle. The bullet pierced through his chin killing him instantly. The matter was today brought to the notice of the police. After legal formalities and spot verification, the police brought the body to sub-district hospital at Sunderbani for an autopsy. The police have also seized the
official INSAS rifle of the constable. The body was later handed over to the unit officers to be dispatched to
his home. Sources said the deceased was under pressure of duty and was reportedly facing some inquiry for remaining absent from duty. “The police have started the inquest proceedings under Section 174 of the CrPC. Only after detailed investigation will it be possible to say what led the deceased to take the extreme step,” said D Katoch, Station House Officer of the Sunderbani police station. |
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Heavy snowfall in Valley, dry weather ahead
Srinagar, January 1 The snowfall, recorded in all districts of the Kashmir region, began on Monday night and continued incessantly for nearly 24 hours till today morning. It snapped the only road link which connects the Valley with the winter capital and the rest of the country. An official of the state Meteorological Department said it was one of the heaviest snowfalls in Srinagar city, where around 42 mm of snow was recorded in 24 hours out of which 26.2 mm was recorded on Tuesday night. “Depthwise it was a heavy snowfall. Around two feet (or 60 mm) of snow was recorded in December 1996 and it is the maximum depth of snow since then,” the official said. The snowfall threw life out of gear in the region, blocking roads, causing traffic snarls and widespread power cuts. The 296-km Jammu-Srinagar national highway remained closed to traffic for the second consecutive day today as clearance operations were underway, an official of the Traffic Department said. “We have not got the clearance yet. The situation will be assessed in the evening and accordingly it will be decided what to do tomorrow,” the official said, adding snow was being cleared in the areas surrounding the Jawahar Tunnel and Patnitop. The aerial connectivity between Kashmir and the rest of the country were restored today and all scheduled incoming and outgoing flights operated successfully, an official at the Srinagar airport said. The aerial link was suspended on Tuesday. The forecast bulletin said light snow and rain would occur at a few places in the state while weather was likely to remain dry in the state in the next two days. |
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Police to conduct census in border villages
Jammu, January 1 Imran, who had been living in Haria Chak village of Kathua with a Gujjar namely Hassan Din for the last three years, was apprehended by the Border Security Force (BSF) on the December 28-29 night while he was trying to crossover to Pakistan from Paharpur area in the Hiranagar sector. “Following the arrest of a Pakistan boy, a verification process has been ordered all along the border in the Jammu region,” Inspector General of Police (IGP), Jammu zone, Rajesh Kumar told The Tribune. The officer admitted that there was a possibility of more such Pakistani nationals living in Indian villages close to the sensitive border. Haria Chak is the same village from where three Pakistani terrorists had hijacked a load carrier on gun point on September 26 last year before staging twin terror attacks that left 10 persons dead. “Though verification of antecedents of people is a continuous process, we have started it afresh. We have also launched fresh searches in villages in Kathua district,” Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Kathua, Mohan Lal said. The SSP added that he had written a letter to Deputy Commissioner, Kathua, Jatinder Kumar Singh, requesting him to make police verification must for everyone, who employs any individual at his home, shop or factory, under section 144. SSP, Samba, Anil Magotra, meanwhile said following the arrest of Pakistani boy from Paharpur, he has ordered a census in his district. “We have already 10 border check posts in place in Samba district with a team of 30 men headed by a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP). A system is in place. The team keeps tab on every individual and vehicle that moves in the border area. But following the arrest of Pakistani boy, we have started a census in our district to rule out the possibility of Pak nationals living in our district,” Magotra said. The officer further said in this context he had a meeting with intelligence agencies today. SSP, Jammu, Atul Goel said such exercises were carried out routinely to rule out the possibility of illegal immigrants living close to the border areas. The Intelligence Bureau, meanwhile, has alerted the Ministry of Home Affairs about floating population of Rohingya Muslims in Jammu. The IB and security forces in the state perceive them as a “potential threat to security”. “Since they (Rohingya Muslims) came from countries like Bangladesh and Myanmar, they can be easily misused by terror outfits,” an Army officer said.
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Man’s murder: Wife accuses police of delaying probe
Rajouri, January 1 Jagan Nath’s body was found lying on the Jammu-Poonch highway, a few metres away from their village on December 7. Neelam Devi, wife of the deceased, who along with her two brothers on Monday met DIG Danesh Rana said her husband was a part of the “barat” of Deputy Lal, which left for Razal village on December 6 from Lamberi. “All baratis came back, but Jagan Nath didn’t return. A search was conducted by the family members and on December 7 his body was found lying on the highway,” said Neelam. After conducting the legal formalities and the postmortem, the police registered a case under Section 174 of the CrPC and started inquest proceedings, which, according to Neelam Devi, was still under process. She alleged that the police was deliberately delaying the investigation. She alleged that her husband was brutally murdered by some persons of the area as he had deep wounds on his head and his right leg was fractured. “We brought the matter to the notice of some senior officers at Noushera, including the ASP, but nothing was done on our complaint. Then we approached the DIG a few days ago and he directed the ASP to take action on our complaint. However, nothing has been done in this regard so far,” said Bishamber, brother of Neelam. On Monday, they again came to Rajouri to meet the DIG, but he was out
of station. Interacting with mediapersons at Rajouri, Devi alleged that they were not satisfied by the investigation being conducted by the Noushera police and demanded re-investigation of the case especially by inspector Zakir Saheen Mirza, station house
officer, Thanamandi. Noushera ASP Purshotam Sharma said, “The police has started investigations into the suspicious death of Nath and has not yet reached at any conclusion.” “After the instructions from the DIG, the
case has been handed over to inspector Yash Pal Sharma, Noushera SHO, and investigation is
in progress,” the ASP added. |
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Arrangements for Indian Science Congress reviewed
Jammu, January 1 The Divisional Commissioner said the Science Congress would be a big event. He enjoined upon the functionaries to gear up their men and machinery so that arrangements were made well in time to ensure the smooth conduct of the event. Threadbare discussions were held on various vital issues pertaining to accommodation for state guests, transportation, security, blacktopping of internal roads of the varsity, augmentation of water supply, electricity, health, sanitation and cleanliness, cultural activities and issue of passes to mediapersons. Those present at the meeting were told that the vehicles for the state guests would be made available by the Hospitality and Protocol Department and the State Motor Garages. The Roads and Buildings Department was asked to ensure that all important roads were blacktopped well in time. The Power Development Department was directed to check all machinery and supply lines to avoid last minute problems. Shantmanu directed the Public Health Engineering authorities for augmenting water supply to the university in view of the science congress. |
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Stranded labourers rue government apathy
Doda, January 1 The labourers were on their way to Jammu when they were stopped by the police at Pul-Doda due to the suspension of traffic on the Jammu-Doda-Kishtwar highway. “We were on way to Jammu for work, but police did not allow us to move ahead because of slippery road condition. We are stranded, but administration has not provided us food, water and blankets,” Girdari Lal, a labourer, alleged. “The health of many of us, especially children and women, is deteriorating, but we have not received any medical attention. We spent all our money on hotels and are now left empty,” said another labourer. Sadder Ali who hails from Bhallesa, the home town of Union Health Minister Gulam Nabi Azad, said despite assurances by the district administration they did not receive any help. Additional District Development Commissioner, Doda, Gulam Nabi Balwan, however said the labourers have been provided the accommodation and they will be allowed to move ahead once the conditions improve and the traffic on the national highway is restored. Meanwhile, Member of Legislative Assembly from Bhaderwah Mohammed Sharif Niaz said he was in touch with the administration and told it to provide all kind of help to the labourers. — OC |
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Kidnapped girl raped, traced to Lakhanpur
Rajouri, January 1 The girl was kidnapped from her locality on December 28. Police said she was rescued from Lakhanpur, when the accused was on his way to Punjab. Girl’s father in his complaint said that his daughter was kidnapped by one Sahid-ul-Rehaman, a resident of Untipora (Srinagar) on December 28. A team headed by SHO, Thanamandi, Zakir Saheen Mirza, under the supervision of DIG Danesh Rana, and district SP Mubassar Latifi reached Jammu on December 30. With the help of Jammu police, Sahid was traced in Lakhanpur and the girl was rescued. Both were brought to Thanamandi and after legal formalities the girl was handed over to her parents after medical check up. The medical report
confirmed that the girl was raped. The accused was booked under sections 376/363 and 109 of the RPC.
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Srinagar, January 1
Srinagar, January 1