The Tribune, Chandigarh, India

	Cong, NC, BJP betrayed Pandits on temples Bill: Kashmiri Samaj Tribune News Service Jammu, March 11 The Youth All India Kashmiri Samaj (YAIKS) today alleged that the government had betrayed the displaced Kashmiri Hindus over the Temples and Shrines Bill. The youth body said the Congress, National Conference (NC) and BJP deliberately sabotaged the passage of the Bill. Addressing a meeting of samaj activists, YAIKS president RK Bhat expressed deep anguish and resentment over the role of political parties and some members of the Legislative Assembly who blocked the passage of the Temples and Shrines Bill in the Assembly. Bhat termed it a total betrayal and deep conspiracy against the Pandits, who are living as refugees in their own country. "The negative role played by most of the parties, including the BJP, has shocked the community. The BJP was committed to providing justice to the community, but it is quite unfortunate that its legislators opposed the Bill when it was presented in the Assembly," Bhat regretted. Bhat appealed to the community members to remain united and fight against the discrimination being meted out to them. He also demanded that a CBI probe should be initiated to find how the lands belonging to temples and shrines were encroached upon and disposed of by some individuals in connivance with government officials. He alleged that to safeguard personnel interests of a few individuals the government let down the whole Kashmiri Pandit community, who were forced out from their land by the terrorists. "Since the exodus of the minority community in 1990, when Pakistan-sponsored armed insurgency erupted in Kashmir, religious places of the minority have become a major target of terrorists, especially after Barbri Masjid was demolished in 1992," Bhat alleged. The figures submitted in the Legislative Assembly by the government say that 57 temples have been damaged in Srinagar, followed by south Kashmir's Anantnag district, where 56 temples suffered damage during the militancy years. However, the Pandits dispute the figure and allege that several more temples have been vandalised in rural and far-flung areas of the Valley, which are not being mentioned.
	Cong workers join PDP Tribune News Service Jammu, March 11 Many disillusioned Congress workers of the Narwal-Airport road, led by Raj Kumar Bakshi, joined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at its office here today. Amidst raising of slogans, Congress workers Billa Baba, Mohinder Singh, Vikram Singh and others shifted their loyalties towards the PDP citing the reason of the party having pro-people policies being propagated by Mufti Muhammad Sayeed. The prominent PDP leaders who were present on the occasion included TS Bajwa, Dhaman Bhasin, Shanti Devi, Falail Singh, RK Bali, district president, Kuljeet Singh Jamwal, Deepinder Kour, Surjeet Kour and Anju Bhan. Welcoming these workers, PDP spokesperson Rangeel Singh assured them that the party would strive hard to come to the expectations of the people. He appealed to these workers to vote for the PDP in the coming Lok Sabha elections and make the party strong.
	3 singing sensations of state perform at ‘Sangeet Sandhya’ Tribune News Service Jammu, March 11 The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) has organised a musical programme under the title "Sangeet Sandhya" at Darbar Hall of Amar Mahal. Dr Karan Singh, president of the ICCR, was the chief guest. He appreciated the performance of young J&K artistes. Regional Director, ICCR, Jammu, Balwant Thakur said the Jammu unit of the ICCR was showcasing the outstanding young singers of the state who had made their name in the music world with their sheer capability and hard work. Three singing sensations of the state — Sargam Pant, Zulekha Fareed and Gursharan Kaur — featured in the programme. The programme culminated with the presentation of a folk song on the demand of Dr Karan Singh. The programme started with "chotta khayal" by Gursharan Kaur and followed by "kafi". Born in 1984, Gursharan Kaur after completing her MPhil in music with distinction is currently doing her PhD in music and her topic of research is "Dogri lok geet ek vishleshnatmak adhayan". Zulekha Fareed, who was born in 1979 and hails from the hills of Bhadarwah, had her early training in native music traditions under the guidance of her father. She later shifted to Jammu. Zulekha transported audiences to the Bharadwahi culture through her mesmerising folk song. Sargam Pant, who was born in 1992, presented Khalid Bashir's ghazal composed by eminent composer Sham Sajan. An engineering student, Sargam Pant has established her own distinctive identity through her unique style of singing. In her last presentation in Dogri "Chaar din vede di aan shaan bawala" she kept the audience spellbound.
	Chill engulfs city as it receives 50 mm rainfall Tribune News Service Jammu, March 11 With fresh rainfall and snowfall lashing the entire Jammu and Kashmir region, chilly weather conditions have engulfed the temple city with it receiving 50 mm of rainfall during the last 24 hours affecting the normal life. While the mountainous districts of Doda, Ramban, Kishtwar, Poonch and Rajouri received snowfall plunging the temperature, plains of Jammu have continuously been receiving rainfall since Monday evening. According to the Indian Meteorological Department forecast, the rain and snowfall will continue till March 14 as a strong Western disturbance (WD) has engulfed the Himalayan state since Sunday. "Jammu will receive more rains in the coming days and the weather will remain cloudy and wet till March 16 as the strong Western disturbance is over the entire region. We have advised the farmers that they should not allow water-logging in fields as it could damage the crops." said Dr BC Sharma, senior weather scientist at SKUAST-Jammu. Within the city, people preferred to remain inside their houses as most of the streams and roads were flooded, particularly in low-lying areas.
	Bad weather dampens poll fervour Campaigning takes a hit as snow, rain lash various parts of state Tribune News Service Jammu, March 11 Bad weather is playing a spoilsport for parties a month ahead of polling for the Jammu-Poonch Lok Sabha seat. The much-touted joint campaign of Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad and Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) chief Saifuddin Soz in the twin border districts of Poonch and Rajouri has been delayed by a day due to stormy weather. The much-touted joint campaign of Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad and Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) chief Saifuddin Soz in the twin border districts of Poonch and Rajouri has been delayed by a day due to stormy weather. Sources in the Congress said uncertainty loomed large over the joint tour due to prevailing weather. “Both leaders would proceed for their tour provided the weather improves,” a source said and added that bad weather was affecting the Congress’ campaign. The party had chalked out a detailed programme of its leader in Poonch and Rajouri districts. A two-day tour of Peoples Democratic Party president Mehbooba Mufti to the hilly areas of Reasi district was also cancelled due to inclement weather. Mehbooba was scheduled to address a series of public meetings at Mahore, Arnas and other areas of Reasi district on March 10 and 11 but she cancelled her tour at the eleventh hour. Incessant rain has forced candidates to organise their meetings in banquet halls or community halls. While permission of the election authorities is required to hold meetings in community halls, leaders give preference to private banquet halls. Meanwhile, the Congress today convened a meeting of the executive committee members and office-bearers of the JKPCC, but Soz, scheduled to preside over the meeting, could not come from Srinagar due to bad weather. The meeting was attended by senior functionaries of the party of the Jammu Poonch Lok Sabha constituency and Doda-Udhampur Lok Sabha constituency to discuss the poll strategy and preparedness and to discuss the ways and means for better coordination within the party and with the National Conference at the grass-roots level, constituency level and district level. The meeting held threadbare discussions on the Lok Sabha constituencies and chalked out a strategy for an effective and coordinated campaign. The participants expressed confidence that the party and the coalition would come out successful and give a befitting reply to divisive and communal forces posing challenges to the secular ideology and pluralistic living in the country. Tours put off * The joint campaign of Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad and JKPCC chief Saifuddin Soz in the twin border districts of Poonch and Rajouri, which was scheduled for March 13, has been delayed by a day due to stormy weather * A two-day tour of PDP president Mehbooba Mufti to the hilly areas of Reasi district was cancelled due to inclement weather
	Snow fury: Kashmir cut off from rest of country Jammu-Srinagar national highway closed; flights to Valley suspended; avalanche warning issued Azhar Qadri Tribune News Service Srinagar, March 11 Heavy snowfall across Kashmir which continued for the second consecutive day today blocked the crucial Srinagar-Jammu highway and led to the closure of the only airport. The region was cut off from the rest of the country due to snowfall. The snowfall along with intermittent spells of heavy rain over the past 48 hours also led to suspension of the normal routine in the region and widespread power outages in many areas. According to the state Meteorological Department, the state witnessed snow and rain due to western disturbance, which has affected the state and its adjoining areas since Sunday. Another similar disturbance is likely to impact again later this week. The snowfall led to the closure of the 294-km Srinagar-Jammu highway, which is the only road link between Kashmir and the rest of the country, for all vehicular traffic, an official of the Traffic Department said. “It depends on the weather whether the road will be opened tomorrow or not,” the official added. The highway is a lifeline of the region as it is used to bring fuel, ration and other essential supplies. Aerial traffic was also suspended as no flight could take off or arrive at the Srinagar airport, the only civilian airport in Kashmir region, due to the prevailing weather conditions, an official at the airport said. The unprecedented snowfall in March, when spring is nearing and winter is almost coming to an end, left the city and other towns inundated and markets deserted. Schools, which opened after a lengthy winter vacation earlier this month, also remained shut for the second day, while the university postponed all examinations, which were scheduled for today. The state Disaster Management Authority has also issued a high danger avalanche warning for hilly areas of north Kashmir’s Baramulla and Kupwara districts and a medium danger avalanche warning for mountainous areas of Banihal, Ramban, Doda, Kishtwar, Poonch and Rajouri areas of Jammu division, and Pulwama, Kulgam, Budgam and Ganderbal districts of Kashmir division. The authority advised the people living in these snowbound areas to take precautions and avoid venturing near steep slopes. The Meteorological Department, which had given a prior warning about the heavy snowfall, said more snow and rain would occur in the state till Wednesday evening. “Moderate to rather heavy rain and snow would occur (in next 24 hours) at most places in the state. Hailstorm may also occur at isolated places of the state,” the department said in its morning forecast bulletin. It also warned that “very heavy rain and snow may occur” at one or two places over the state during the next 24 hours and a thunder squall accompanied by hailstorm may also occur at one or two places over the state during the same period. The state Meteorological Department said there would be a decrease in precipitation from Wednesday onward ands a fresh western disturbance might affect the state from weekend. Life out of gear * Snowfall along with intermittent spells of heavy rain over the past 48 hours has led to widespread power outages * Aerial traffic suspended as no flight could take off or arrive at the Srinagar airport * Schools remain shut for the second day, while the university postpones all examinations * The state Disaster Management Authority has issued avalanche warning * Fresh western disturbance may again hit state this weekend
	Waterlogging adds to woes of city residents Tribune News Service Srinagar, March 11 As the summer capital continued to receive incessant snow and rainfall for the second consecutive day today, waterlogging woes too increased. While the waterlogged city roads had put the locals to a lot of convenience yesterday, the situation turned even worse today. Not only the bylanes, but the main roads too were inundated with water. “Driving a car gives one the feeling of a boat ride as the entire city has turned into a virtual lake. I have not yet come across so much waterlogging ever in my lifetime,” said Abdul Ahad, an elderly resident of uptown Rawalpora area. Other residents too were found complaining. “We are finding it difficult even to go out to buy groceries from nearby stores as it is impossible to walk on lanes without getting wet. Unfortunately, priority is only given to main roads during snow clearance, while the interiors are neglected,” said another local. Amid numerous complaints, the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) claimed of having started a massive exercise to de-water the city. SMC Commissioner GN Qasba said around 75 de-watering stations had been pressed into service. "Despite power failure, we have been able to keep all the 75 stations fully operational. The government has spared more diesel generators to ensure smooth functioning," he said. He said the SMC had called out more than 200 employees to cater to the needs of people and ensured de-watering was carried out round the clock. An SMC official said the commissioner had also personally inspected the de-watering stations at Daresk Kadal, Court Road, Jawahar Nagar, Raj Bagh, Sonawar, Bishambar Nagar and Maisuma Shorekhan. On complaints that the SMC was clearing water only in selected areas, the official said the corporation had prioritised areas and cleared most important roads of rainwater to ensure hassle-free movement of traffic and pedestrians. Later, Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir Shailender Kumar took a review meeting attended by several senior officers regarding measures taken to check waterlogging. Besides the SMC Commissioner, Deputy Commissioner, Srinagar, Farooq Shah too attended the meeting.
	Snowfall forces closure of educational institutions in Valley Tribune News Service Srinagar, March 11 Due to heavy snowfall in the Valley for the last few days, all educational institutions, including high and higher secondary schools and colleges, have been directed to close down till March 12. Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, Shailendra Kumar said in the wake of inclement weather conditions, all educational institutions would remain shut till March 12. "We will take the call of opening these institutions once weather improves," the Divisional Commissioner, Kashmir, said. Meanwhile, Kashmir University also cancelled all its postgraduate entrance examinations scheduled for March 11, 12 and 13, as per an official handout by the Department of Communications, Kashmir University. The Kashmir University said the exams would be rescheduled later. The Public Services Commission (PSC) also cancelled its Kashmir Administrative Services (KAS) examinations due to heavy snowfall. Hundreds of aspirants were due to appear in Kashmir Administrative Services main entrance exams at different exam centres all across the Valley. However, the Service Selection Board (SSB) went ahead with its interviews for the post of teachers scheduled for today in various districts of the state. Candidates hailing from far-flung areas had a difficult time reaching the exam centres as no transport services were available. "I along with other friends walked 10 km amid snow for reaching my examination centre. Some candidates, who are from far-flung villages in the border district areas, couldn't even make it to the exam venues,” Munazah, a teacher aspirant hailing from South Kashmir's Kulgam district, said. “Despite our repeated pleas, the enquiry cell, Service Selection Board, didn’t respond and asked us to communicate with the Jammu office,” she added.
	Lightning claims life in Rajouri Retaining wall of Bar room in courts complex damaged as earth caves in Shyam Sood Rajouri, March 11 Untimely heavy rain accompanied by hailstorm and lightning in Rajouri district claimed a person’s life here last night. Besides, a number of cattle perished and the retaining wall of the Bar room in the courts complex got damaged, causing huge loss to the building. Torrential rain followed by thunderstorm for the past three days has thrown normal life out of gear. Flooding was reported in Agli Tawi River. The police said a person identified as Mohd Ayub of Sawari village was killed and a cow perished after they were struck by lightning during thunderstorm. “We have no official information about the death of a person. If he has died due to natural calamity, suitable compensation will be sanctioned in favour of his kin,” said Additional Deputy Commissioner Saleem Malik. Besides, the retaining wall of the courts complex got damaged as the earth caved in. A chamber of advocate Amrit Lal also got damaged in the incident and cracks appeared in the old Bar room. Advocates today took out a protest rally up to the Deputy Commissioner’s office. They informed Deputy Commissioner Hemant Kumar Sharma that advocates were forced to work in adverse conditions whenever there was rain. “Had the wall collapsed during the working hours, many lives would have been lost,” said Vibodh Gupta, secretary of the Bar association. The Deputy Commissioner along with the Executive Engineer (EE), PWD, accompanied advocates to the courts complex and after verification instructed the EE, PWD, to start the repair work immediately. “The advocates have postponed the strike for a few days and if the repair work is not started, they may go on indefinite strike,” said Gupta. As far as damage to the crops is concerned, District Agriculture Officer KK Nakhashi said most parts of the district fall under Kandi area and no waterlogging was reported from any part of the district. “The wheat crop is at its initial stage in the district and heavy rain followed by hailstorm will not affect the crop. However, there is a possibility of yellow rust affecting the crops if the weather continues to be cloudy. Farmers have been advised to use spray whenever there is dry weather after rain,” said Nakhashi.
	Orchardists face losses as snow damages apple trees Farooz Ahmad Bhat Pulwama, March 11 Some orchards in south Kashmir are counting losses following a heavy snowfall for two days in the region which has damaged apple trees. The snowfall has been reported from Shopian, Kulgam, Anantnag and Pulwama of south Kashmir. Reports said fruit growers from Heerpora and Shopian had registered their complaints with the District Horticulture Department. “Many trees in my orchard have been uprooted and their branches have been snapped due to the heavy snowfall,” said Mohammad Ayoub, a resident of Shopian. He said Shopian and the upper reaches had received two feet of snow. He said despite heavy snow, orchardists had been busy clearing accumulated snow from the trees. District Development Officer Sushil Kumar said, “The actual damage caused due to the snowfall is yet to be ascertained. So far, we have received reports of minor losses but the damage may increase further as the snowfall is expected to continue.” He advised the orchardists to regularly clear the snow from the trees. “This time, the orchardists will face more losses as the region has received the heaviest snow in March in a decade,” said Ghulam Mohammad Dar, president, Fruit Growers’ Association. Meanwhile, PDP activist Mohsin Qayoom Wani has asked the government to timely estimate the losses and provide compensation to orchardists.
	Rain damages 14 houses in Ramban, schools closed Our Correspondent Batote, March 11 Fourteen houses are reported to have been damaged in various parts of Ramban district due to incessant rain since last night. Assistant Commissioner, Revenue, Tahir Firdous said four houses were fully damaged and three partially in Gool. He said two houses were fully damaged in Ramban niabat and three partially in Batote niabat today due to the rain. Naib Tehsildar, Batote, Saifullah Shah said an alert had been sent to all houses in the landslide area in Batote. A landslide washed away an under-construction Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana link road and damaged 18 houses in Rakhjadog village of Batote in 2012. Reports of damage to the private and government properties were pouring in from various parts of Ramban district which were being verified and compiled by Revenue Department officials. Power supply remained disrupted in various parts of the district due to damage to the power distribution system today. There were reports of shortage of essentials. Meanwhile, Deputy Commissioner, Ramban, MH Malik ordered the closure of all government and private schools for today and tomorrow.
	Incessant rain, snow throw life out of gear in south Kashmir Srinagar-Khannabal stretch worst-affected due to waterlogging Suhail A Shah Anantnag, March 11 Incessant rain and snow threw life out of gear in many parts of the Valley, including south Kashmir region, today. The Srinagar-Khannabal stretch of the national highway is the worst-affected due to waterlogging at many places across the 40-km stretch. According to reports, many places in south Kashmir’s Anantnag and Kulgam districts were waterlogged, forcing locals to stay indoors. “Almost every street is inundated. People are unable to move out of their houses,” said Muneeb Ahmad, a resident of Anantnag town. The situation was no different at the Anantnag bus stand. “People travelling to work or back home were subjected to severe inconvenience,” said Ahmad. Locals accused the administration of being negligent over the issue as no immediate relief was provided by the operating government machinery to drain out the accumulated water. However, a senior official from the district administration blamed continuous inclement weather behind hampering of work. “It has been snowing persistently and all operations have been hampered for now till the weather improves,” said the official. Reports said waterlogged patches near Lethpora and Barsoo in Pampore area of Pulwama and Bijbehara in Anantnag district were the worst-hit, causing severe inconvenience to locals as well as commuters. The shopkeepers along the national highway were forced to keep their establishments closed as the rainwater flooded their shops.
	BSF, Army step up border watch Ravi Krishnan Khajuria Tribune News Service Jammu, March 11 With Jammu-Poonch and Udhampur-Doda Lok Sabha seats going to the polls on April 10 and April 17, respectively, the BSF and the Army are on a high alert along the 198-km international border and the 744-km Line of Control. Following the September 26 terror attacks last year that left 10 persons dead and scores injured, the BSF has made some tactical changes on the international border concentrating more on rivulets and marshy land - a traditional route of infiltration for the Pakistani ultras. “We are strengthening our grid on the international border, wherever required. We have also increased night patrolling,” said a senior BSF officer. He said the BSF had also geared up its intelligence network. “We have addressed vulnerable areas,” he added. The BSF has set up an indigenously built Riverine Integrated Surveillance and Communication System over the Tarnah river in Kathua district, he added. The rivulets that flow into Pakistan and marshy land are being covered with more men, he said. The officer said in the backdrop of the Lok Sabha elections, the BSF anticipates intrusion attempts from across the border in the coming days. “They (Pakistani ultras) are in camps on the other side of the border, and will try to infiltrate but we are prepared to foil their designs,” he said. The Army, which guards the LoC, is also ready to meet any eventuality. “The LoC is fully secure but, yes, there has been heightened activity in terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir for sometime,” said a senior Army officer. “However, adequate measures are in place and the Army is foiling all their (ultras) attempts to infiltrate to this side,” he added. He said though there had been no perceptible change in infiltration bids, the Pakistan Army had been assisting the intruders. “Since January this year, most of the intrusion attempts were made during night and we picked up their movement on thermal imagers. They retreated on being fired at. So far this year, there has been no instance of forced intrusion bid,” he said.
	Week-long NSS camp concludes Tribune News Service Jammu, March 11 The week-long annual camp of NSS volunteers on the theme "Save environment to save life" at the Model Institute of Education and Research (MIER) concludes. The valedictory function was held at the MIER College of Education. Dr Vishav Raksha, NSS programme coordinator, University of Jammu, was the chief guest, while Director, MIER, Dr Renu Gupta, was the guest of honour. In her address, Dr Vishav Raksha suggested that the NSS unit should adopt an area and be the ambassadors of change. "The NSS volunteers of BEd are even more significant as they pass on the values of selfless service to schoolchildren," she added. Dr Raksha appreciated the efforts of the NSS unit for instilling the sense of community service in the youth. The programme concluded with an impressive cultural programme, comprising song, dance, skit and sharing of experiences by volunteers. The report of the camp was presented by Rohinika Sharma, NSS programme officer. Earlier, the camp was formally inaugurated by the Director, MIER, and Principal, MIER College of Education, Dr Renu Gupta, wherein she appreciated the zeal of NSS volunteers for social service. She hoped that the camp provide them with the necessary training and initiative to shape the future of the country. A training programme on "What to do: Before, during and after earthquake" and first aid was organised in collaboration with the Directorate of Civil Defence. The programme was attended by the NSS campers and the students of Model Academy. Sudarshan Saini, instructor, Civil Defence, gave orientation to the volunteers regarding how they can tackle a natural calamity like earthquake. A live demonstration of first aid was also given.
	Jammu varsity VC releases book on life, poetry of Aasi Tribune News Service Jammu, March 11 Prof Mohan Paul Singh Ishar, Vice Chancellor (VC), University of Jammu (JU), today released a book, titled “Aasi: Shakhs aur Shair”, written by Mohammad Asif Malik, a research scholar of the PG Department of Urdu. The book-release function was jointly organised by the Centre for Professional Studies in Urdu and PG Department of Urdu. Addressing the gathering, Prof Ishar lauded the efforts of Asif Malik for writing the book on the life and poetry of Aasi in a very interesting way. He said it was a great treat to listen to some of the famous poems of Aasi, a lesser-known poet to the common man. Prof Ishar said the scholar had brought to light all the aspects of the Aasi’s life and poetry in a befitting manner and hoped that many people would get enlightened by reading the book. Aresh Shabhai, another renowned poet, presented a critical survey of the book. He descried the book a valuable one, saying that it covers all the aspects of the life and poetry of Aasi. Prof Shohab Inayat Malik of the Department of Urdu, while speaking on the occasion, said Asif Malik had written a number of articles for Urdu journals, which were appreciated by readers. Dr Mohammad Reayz Ahmed conducted the proceedings of the function, while Prof Sukhchain Singh, Head of the Department of Urdu, presented vote of thanks.
	Nukkad natak ‘Jadian’ staged Tribune News Service Jammu, March 11 The Theatre Wing of the Doordarshan Approved Drama Artists Association (DADAA) staged a nukkad natak based on Duggar folk "Jadian" at Dogra Hall of the Dogra Sadar Sabha. The play was staged for the launch of satellite Duggar Channel at Jammu to promote all languages spoken in "Duggar Pradesh". Dogra Sadar Sabha \|executive committee members, artistes and people of the area watched the natak and appreciated the steps taken by the Doordarshan Approved Drama Artists Associationfor the establishment of Duggar Channel. Those who performed in the nukkad natak included Madan Rangila, Surinder Goel, Mastana, Uttam Singh, Rattan Doshi, Archana Sharma, Neelam Gandotra, Rajinder Narang and Harbans Sharma.
	JeM militant killed in encounter: CRPF Tribune News Service Srinagar/ Pulwama, March 11 A Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) militant commander was killed in an encounter late last night in the Tral area of south Kashmir. A senior Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) officer said JeM militant commander Arshad Bhai of Multan in Pakistan was killed in a gunfight near Tral town in Pulwama district, 40 km from Srinagar. “The militant was killed in a retaliatory fire after a CRPF patrol was fired upon by militants near Gol Masjid in Tral town around 8.10 pm on Monday,” said Nalin Prabhat, Inspector General (IG) (Operations), CRPF. “After the firing, the area was searched and the body of the militant was recovered. Other militants managed to escape in the dark,” the CRPF IG said. Prabhat said the associates of the slain militants also took away his gun before fleeing from the spot. “However, we recovered 260 rounds of AK-47 rifle, four AK-47 magazines, two grenades, two mobile sets and a sophisticated Kenwood wireless set from the encounter site,” the CRPF officer said. Tral residents said a few gunshots were heard in the town. They said they were unaware of the incident and termed the encounter mysterious. The police said they were ascertaining facts about the incident. “The CRPF has informed us that they shot dead a militant and we have taken cognisance,” said a police officer in south Kashmir. “The postmortem of the slain militant was conducted and samples have been taken for a DNA test,” he said. Police sources also termed the encounter mysterious. “We are also looking into the possibility that the militant might have got killed in a group clash,” a police source said. The slain JeM militant was a category “A” militant and had shifted to the Tral area last year in December from the Lolab valley of Kupwara district.
	ED books Hizb chief for cross-border terror funding New Delhi, March 11 In a first, the Enforcement Directorate (ED) today registered a money laundering case against 10 persons, including banned militant outfit Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin, for the alleged cross-border funding of terror activities in the country. The ED was prompted to register the case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA) after it took cognisance of a FIR registered by the National Investigating Agency (NIA) against these people. The central probe agency, sources said, would look into the financing of militant organisations in India by the Hizbul Mujahideen from Pakistan. The NIA had last year filed its case against these persons in connection with its probe related to the LoC trade. Those named in the chargesheet included Salahuddin’s deputy Gulam Nabi Khan, Umer Farooq Shera, Manzoor Ahmed Dar, Zaffar Hussain Bhat, Azir Ahamd Dar, Abdul Majeed Sofi, and Mubarak Shah among others, they said. Besides, Talib Ali, alias Talib Hussain Lali, and Mohammad Shafi Shah, alias Doctor, alias Dawood, were charged with various provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act in the NIA chargesheet. All of them, including Salahuddin, have been named in the ED case registered under the PMLA, a first regular money laundering case to probe offshore terror financing ramifications, the sources said. In a meticulously done probe, the NIA claimed to have unearthed at least Rs 13 crore which had been pumped through cross-border trade at Uri, cash couriers and normal banking channels besides the routine “hawala” route. The case was registered by the NIA on October 25, 2011, for the alleged regular and systematic funding of the Hizbul Mujahideen for carrying out terror activities. Investigation has established that under the cover of the Jammu and Kashmir Affectees Relief Trust (JKART), terror group Hizbul Mujahideen operatives based in Pakistan used to provide funds through various channels for terrorist activities in the country. — PTI
	Mehbooba exhorts women to bring in political change Tribune News Service Jammu, March 11 Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) President Mehbooba Mufti today said, “Women have to play a key role in bringing about a change that will usher in an era of political accountability and performance audit of all parties, which have exploited all sections of society.” Addressing a meeting of the women’s wing of the PDP, Jammu district, Mehbooba said J&K was passing through a crucial stage, where each and every section of society had to play its role in ensuring a better future for the coming generation. “Women and youth in particular have to come forward and lead the state into the new era of prosperity,” she added. She said, “The PDP has in a short span of time established that it has vision and policies for all sections of society. Women empowerment has remained the prime focus of the party. Historical measures taken during the government led by Mufti Muhammad Sayeed in empowering and educating women speaks about it.” She asked the women party leaders and workers to reach out to the people and propagate programmes and policies of the party in order to garner support for party candidate for the Jammu-Poonch constituency Yashpal Sharma. The party president, in presence of President of the Mahila wing Shanti Devi constituted campaign committees of the party’s Mahila wing for Jammu east, west and cantonment. Surjeet Kour, Geeta Thakur and Ritu Gondhi were nominated as in-charge for Jammu Cantonment, Jammu west and Jammu east, respectively.
	Landslides cause closure of roads in Jammu Amit Khajuria Tribune News Service Jammu, March 11 Rain, snow, landslides and slippery road conditions led to closure of many roads, including the 300-km-long Jammu-Srinagar national highway. However, no vehicle was stranded en route. The air traffic was also disrupted due to snowfall in Srinagar and heavy rain in Jammu. No flight took off for Srinagar from Jammu. “The traffic movement on the national highway was totally suspended due to heavy snowfall and rain, but there is no vehicle stranded en route, as we have stopped vehicular traffic before the closure of the road and cleared all the vehicle till 12.30am,” said Hasib Mughal, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), National Highway. “We called off restoration work due to heavy snowfall. We will start again if we get some relief from rain and snow. If the highway will be cleared tomorrow, only one-way traffic movement will be allowed from Srinagar to Jammu tomorrow,” he added. According to reports, heavy snowfall occurred at Jawahar Tunnel, Banihal, Shatani Nallah, Ramso, Batote and Patnitop, while heavy rain lashed Ramban. Besides, landslides were reported in some of the places between Patnitop and Banihal. Besides, most of the inter-district roads in Reasi, Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban and Kathua districts were closed due to heavy snowfall. The interstate Bhaderwah-Chamba (Himachal Pradesh) road was also closed due to heavy snowfall at Sartangal Pass. The weatherman for Jammu region has forecasted moderate to rather heavy rain and thundershowers tomorrow. Maximum and minimum temperatures will be around 23°C and 11°C, respectively.
	Guv briefed on art, culture projects Tribune News Service Jammu, March 11 Joint Secretary of the Union Ministry of Culture Pramod Kumar Jain called on Governor NN Vohra at Raj Bhawan here today. Jain briefed the Governor about the to-date status of various ongoing projects relating to the preservation and promotion of art and culture in the state. The Governor told Jain to revisit the state soon to review issues relating to the preservation of ancient monuments and the functioning of the museums in the state. Jain apprised the Governor about the progress achieved in the National Mission on Libraries in the state, which aims to modernise and digitally link libraries across India.
	Panthers party leader joins J&K Democratic Front Tribune News Service Jammu, March 11 Former state secretary of the Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party (JKNPP) Manoj Gupta today joined the Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Front (JKDF). He joined the JKDF in the presence of state president Anil Gupta, who is the candidate for the Udhampur-Doda Lok Sabha seat. He pledged to work for strengthening the party especially in the Billawar area of Kathua. JKDF state general secretary Surinder Sharma welcomed him and his supporters into the party fold. Those who joined the party along with Manoj Gupta included Anchal Singh, Balbir, Deep Kumar and Raju. Welcoming the entrants into the party, Anil Gupta said, “We hope the new members will serve society and masses with full enthusiasm and dedication. I congratulate them and hope their association and hard work will take the party to new heights. I appeal to all workers to fight collectively for the cause of Jammu and to play a bigger role in our fight against regional discrimination.” Party activists who were present at the programme included Murari Lal, Krishan Lal, Prashant Puri, Vijay Shastri, Anil Balgotra, Jyoti Gupta, Naveen Sharma and others.
	40 units of blood collected at camp Our Correspondent Katra March 11 The first camp of the campaign “Donate blood for democracy — one drop of blood for nation” was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner (DC) Shahid Iqbal Choudhary here today. The camp was organised by the Municipal Committee Katra in collaboration with the Nirankari Mission as per the Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) calendar formulated by the DC. Over 40 units of the blood were collected at the camp. Election Observer SG Raveendra interacted with the donors and appreciated the district administration for organising the camp. An electronic voting machine (EVM) familiarisation camp was also organised at the venue. Booth-level officials added 20 voters to the latest voters’ list. On March 9, 2,552 voters were added to the electorates’ list at 301 polling booth camps as a part of the ongoing enrolment drive. The DC informed the Election Observer about the series of blood donation camps organised in the district as a part of the SVEEP campaign, Jashn-e-Jamhuriat. He also highlighted the role of the Katra Hotel and Restaurant Association in creating awareness among the electorates. ACR Tilak Raj Sharma, ExEn PHE Nissar Hussain, DPO Rohit Sharma, EO Ravi Sharma, senior officers of various departments, SL Kesar, Rakesh Wazir of the Katra Hotel Association and representatives of the Nirankari Mission were also present at the camp.
	Talk on world-class universities at KU Tribune News Service Srinagar, March 11 Stating that the University of Kashmir has all the potential and strength to emerge as a world-class institution, JAK Tareen, former Vice Chancellor, University of Kashmir, delivered a talk on “World-class universities, features and characteristics” today at KU. Tareen, who is presently the Vice Chancellor of BS Abdul Rehman University, Tamil Nadu, said the students of today had a global perspective and they wanted to join world-class institutions for better academic and career prospects. Tareen said, “The demands, expectations and requirements of today’s youth have undergone a major shift and they aspire to join global institutions which are second to none in the world. It is this new perspective among students, which has thrown up new challenges for universities and academicians.”
	Hurriyat leader Geelani’s health deteriorates Tribune News Service Srinagar, March 11 Separatist leader Syed Ali Shah Geelani’s health has deteriorated further. The hardline faction of the Hurriyat Conference headed by him has decided that Geelani would be flown to New Delhi for treatment once the weather improves in the Valley as air traffic from Srinagar remained suspended for the second consecutive day today due to a heavy snowfall. “The health of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference chairman Syed Ali Geelani has again deteriorated and he felt uneasiness during the night,” Hurriyat spokesman Ayaz Akbar said. The Hurriyat spokesman appealed to the people to hold special prayers for the recovery of the separatist leader. Geelani has not been keeping well since last week. His condition deteriorated after returning from Delhi last week where he underwent a medical check up at a hospital. He had complained of chest pain, accompanied by weight loss. “The central leadership of the Tehreek-e-Hurriyat (which is headed by Geelani) on Tuesday morning held a meeting at the Hyderpora headquarters. It was decided that Geelani Sahab will be moved to New Delhi for further treatment,” Ayaz Akbar said, adding that “if need arises”, he may be “admitted” to the hospital there.
	Hospital’s emergency block to miss yet another deadline Our Correspondent Poonch, March 11 The emergency block of Maharaja Sukhdev Singh District Hospital, Poonch, the construction work of which was started in 2010, is going to miss another deadline of its completion this year. The block had suffered huge losses in the 2005 earthquake. The Health Department had promised to complete it before March 31. The emergency block of the hospital suffered huge losses in a devastating earthquake in 2005. The building had collapsed partially. In 2009-10, the state government had decided to build a new emergency block with modern facilities at an estimated cost of Rs 3.81 crore. The block was started in a 10-bedded pre-fabricated hall with bare minimum basic facilities on the hospital premises. The then Health Minister, Sham Lal Sharma, had laid the foundation stone on January 18, 2010, with much fanfare with the promise that no financial crunch would hamper the construction work of the complex and it would be completed in a year. However, after the passage of almost four years, the emergency block is yet to be completed and is going to miss another deadline of its completion this year. The authorities had already given three deadlines of its completion in the preceding two years. Due to inordinate delay in its completion, residents of the area are suffering a lot. "Like the construction work of other important projects, the emergency block of the district hospital was also started with much fanfare, but it has not got the required funds till today," said Nishu Gupta, a local, said. "The emergency block will have two minor operation theatres, X-ray equipment, staff duty rooms, dressing rooms and 20-bedded block for emergency patients," said Dr Mumtaz Bhatti, Chief Medical Officer, Poonch. He said, “Rs 3.3 crore have been spent on it till last month and the required funds are yet to be released. Despite shortage of over Rs 54 lakh, we have conveyed to the contractor concerned to complete it before the end of the month so that it can be made functional soon".
	Fake currency racket busted, 12 arrested Tribune News Service Srinagar, March 11 The police today arrested 12 persons in connection with a fake currency racket operating in the Valley. The police arrested a Srinagar resident after receiving information that he was a key operator in managing a fake currency racket in the city, which led investigators to an elaborate network of operators, couriers and managers of the inter-district network. “The Ram Munshi Bagh police station received an information regarding a fake currency racket being operated in Srinagar city and Arshad Ahmed Kaloo, a resident of Nehru Park, being one of the key operators,” Superintendent of Police (City East) Harmeet Singh said. Acting on a tip-off, the police laid a checkpoint at Badyari Chowk in the city where the suspect was intercepted and fake currency worth Rs 3,500 were recovered from him during his personal search, the officer said. Kaloo was booked under Sections 489-B and 489-C of the RPC and was questioned for further leads. “During his questioning, it came to surface that a Baramulla resident is the main kingpin of the racket,” the officer said. The police arrested Masood-ul-Haq, a resident of Khwaja Bagh area of north Kashmir’s Baramulla, who was suspected to be the main kingpin based on Kaloo’s disclosure. Masood would operate the racket from various areas of Srinagar city and other towns of the Valley, the police investigation said. The police are now looking for a resident of Baramulla’s Uri area, who is believed to be the supplier of fake currency to the racket. “We know that there is someone from Uri who supplied them fake currency, but we have not been able to identify him so far,” the officer said. So far, the police has arrested 12 persons for their involvement with the racket and also recovered Rs 8.85 lakh worth of fake currency.
	One killed, 4 hurt in road accidents across Valley Tribune News Service Srinagar, March 11 One person was killed and four others injured in road accidents across the Kashmir valley during the last 24 hours. In a statement here, the police said a Tata 407 hit and injured a pedestrian Zeba, wife of Ghulam Hassan Sheikh. She was a resident of Zadipora in the Khanabal area of south Kashmir. “The injured was shifted to District Hospital, Anantnag, where she succumbed to her injuries. The police have registered a case in this regard,” the statement said. In the Boniyar area of Baramulla, a Tata Sumo hit and injured a pedestrian identified as Noor Hussain Shah. The injured was shifted to District Hospital, Baramulla. A case has been registered, the police said. The police said a Maruti vehicle hit and injured a pedestrian, Abdul Majeed Wagay, a resident of Churrat at Gousia Colony, in the jurisdiction of the Qazigund police station in Kulgam district. The injured was shifted to District Hospital, Anantnag, they said. In one more incident, a Tata Sumo overturned at the Doniwari area, falling in the jurisdiction of the Sogam police station. Two passengers were injured. They were shifted to Sub-District Hospital, Kupwara, the police said.
	Sports Council to enhance cash prize to Rs 51,000 Vikas Sharma Tribune News Service Jammu, March 11 The J&K State Sports Council will enhance the cash prize of the Sher-e-Kashmir Sports Award from Rs 30,000 to Rs 51,000 for all medallists of national and international competitions. The decision was taken by the Award Ceremony Committee of the autonomous sports body. Earlier, a gold medallist was given Rs 30,000 and a silver medallist used to get Rs 25,000 while Rs 20,000 was given to a bronze medallist. Sources said earlier, the Sports Council received suggestions to enhance the cash award for a sportsperson but it failed to take any decision. “After getting information from other states which are awarding cash prizes in excess of Rs 50,000 to its medal winners at higher levels, the state authorities have now taken this initiative,” sources in the Sports Council said. The committee has also decided to introduce the Purshotam Award for the best coach from this year. “Earlier, there was confusion over fixing the criteria for the Purshotam Award. Initially, committee members decided to fix the criteria on the pattern of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (MYAS), which considers a three-year performance of a coach for the award, but no consensus was built upon it. Then, it was unanimously decided that a coach’s one-year performance will be considered for his selection for the award,” a Sports Council source said. However, besides a trophy, the best coach will also get Rs 51,000. The date for conferring the Sher-e-Kashmir Award has yet to be finalised by the government due to the enforcement of the model code of conduct. Last year, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah conferred the Sher-e-Kashmir Sports Award on 34 outstanding sportspersons in recognition of their achievements at the national and international level at an investiture ceremony held at the General Zorawar Singh Auditorium, University of Jammu.