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IndiaVotes 2014
Giving five medical colleges to J&K historic decision, says Azad
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Modi’s refusal to only one type of cap wrong: Omar
Cong workers told to work for success of coalition candidates
Ladakh students press for polling facility in
Jammu
Ex-militant’s wife attempts suicide
Fervour marks Baisakhi celebrations
Azad’s native village wears a festive look
On the
frontline
Now, Bollywood to get govt approval to shoot in
Kashmir
Craft exhibition at Mubarak Mandi inaugurated
Minibuses give harrowing time to passengers, road users
Implement Immovable Property Act: Pandits
Need for pathological labs in each district: Vohra
Dogs attack 12 persons in Kupwara district
International conference on maxillofacial surgery ends
Water sports organised on Day 2 of Spring Fest
NC will protect JK’s special status:
Farooq
Cong, NC not doing justice with SPOs, VDCs: BJP
Economic Reconstruction Agency holds workshop
256 Army men to vote as service voters outside
state
Work on Kalnai power project yet to
start
SDP extends support to BJP
Guv extends Baisakhi greetings National CME held
Workshop on genetic diseases held
11 injured in road mishap
Guv pays tribute to Ambedkar
Panches to ensure fair elections in Ladakh
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Political change inevitable in J&K and Centre, says Mufti
Anantnag, April 13 The former Chief Minister held roadshows in
different parts of Bijbehara today, as part of the party’s campaign for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. PDP president and Mufti’s daughter, Mehbooba Mufti, would be contesting for the Anantnag parliamentary seat. Mufti, while addressing the gathering, said the change in J&K and at the Centre would be a welcome one for the people of the state. “It will be a change for the betterment of the state.” Comparing his tenure at the office to the present coalition government led by the National Conference, Mufti said: “If it was not for the NC-Congress coalition’s tenure, the people would not have understood the quantum of development our government managed to bring in just three years.” Praising both the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and the Congress-led UPA for their liberal funding to the state during his tenure, Mufti said it was unfortunate that his party did not get much time at the helm. “Even in the short period that we got, we managed to do more work than the six years of the present government put together,” Mufti said, adding: “People across J&K have come to realise the difference we made during our tenure.” He added that the insecurity among people was at an all-time low during the PDP-led coalition.
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Giving five medical colleges to J&K historic decision, says Azad
Jammu, April 13 He said since 1947, there were only three medical colleges in Jammu and Kashmir and added that the tally had gone up to eight now. “It is not merely an announcement but the amount for setting up of these colleges has also been released and you will see its visibility around you soon,” he said and added a “super speciality hospital on the pattern of AIIMS has been made functional in Jammu, which will provide the people advanced medical care in their home state”. The Union Minister addressed a series of public meetings in hilly belts of the Billawar and Basohli Assembly segments of Kathua district. Azad is contesting from the Doda-Udhampur parliamentary constituency. He said the decision to open a medical college at Kathua had been taken after seeing the problems being faced by the residents of Kathua. “Now, your children will not have to go far-off places in Jammu or in other states for medical education. Your children will become doctors in Kathua only,” said Azad.
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Modi’s refusal to only one type of cap wrong: Omar
Srinagar, April 13 “Mr Modi, the problem isn’t that you refuse to wear caps (and) turbans for a photo op, it’s refusing only one type of cap that’s wrong,” Omar wrote on micro-blogging site Twitter. Omar has been critical of Modi and blamed him for remaining unapologetic for the “killing of Muslims in his state (Gujarat)”. Earlier this week, while addressing an election rally in the city here, Omar had lashed out at Modi for refusing to wear the cap presented to him by a Muslim preacher. Modi, in a TV interview yesterday, had said he would not wear a cap to “appease” the people. Omar’s National Conference has a pre-poll alliance with the Congress and both parties’ campaign mainly revolves around anti-Modi speeches.
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Cong workers told to work for success of coalition candidates
Srinagar, April 13 “The Congress and the UPA stand for inclusive growth, prosperity and development, whereas the opposition to it reflects divisive elements and vested interest groups, who are hell bent on creating division among people in the name of catchy slogans and ideas,” he added. Pointing to the BJP, Taj said the aim of the party was to hoodwink the gullible and innocent people and not to make any positive contribution to people’s lives. He claimed that the present government was working hard to ameliorate the living standards of people particularly those living below poverty line in far-flung areas and those belonging to weaker sections of society. Party District President, Srinagar, Abdul Ghani Khan and other Congress leaders also spoke on the occasion.
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Ladakh students press for polling facility in
Jammu
Jammu, April 13 In a letter to the District Election Officer and Deputy Commission (DC), Leh, the All Ladakh Joint Action Committee, stated that either all students from the Ladakh region, who are above 18 years of age, be airlifted to their respective native places or a polling station be set up in Jammu for their convenience. Given the fact that sitting Member of Parliament from Ladakh Ghulam Hassan Khan won the 2009 parliamentary polls by just 3,708 votes, over 10,000-odd students and scholars from the region, living in various parts of the country, might play a vital role in the elections on May 7. Khan, who had fought the 2009 election as an Independent, defeated Congress’ Phuntsog Namgyal. Namgyal had managed 28,986 votes as compared to 32,694 bagged by Khan. The Ladakh parliamentary constituency comprises four Assembly segments, Nobra, Leh, Kargil and Zanskar, and has 1,59,949 electorate, including 78,781 female voters. “There are more than 10,000 students and scholars, all eligible voters, from the Ladakh region studying in Jammu, Chandigarh and other parts of the country,” said Tsering Norphel, a native of Leh town and currently pursuing his research at the University of Jammu. “We will have to travel a long distance to cast our votes in the forthcoming elections,” Norphel said. He said they had taken up the matter with the Deputy Commission, Leh, requesting him to set up a polling station in Jammu so that they could exercise their right to franchise, but all in vain. “It will cost each of us anything between Rs 8,000 and Rs 10,000 to go to our native place to vote. And if anyone intends to fly to Leh, he may have to shell out around Rs 25,000…leave aside the wishes of students, their parents will not allow them to come to Leh just to vote,” he added. Tsewang Nurbco, a political science student, said: “On the one hand, the Election Commission appeals to people to come out in large numbers to cast their vote and on the other hand we are deprived of our democratic right.” “At present, all roads to the Ladakh region are closed due to snow and even if there was road connectivity, we will have to face umpteen hardships to reach to our native places to exercise our franchise. The Election Commission should seriously look into our demand and make some alternative arrangements in Jammu so that we can easily cast our votes,” Nurbco said. District Election Officer, Leh, Simrandeep Singh admitted that his office had received a letter from the students requesting for an alternative arrangement to be made for them for voting in the upcoming elections. “We will write to the Election Commission of India, which will further decide on it,” Singh said. The official, however, said: “There are many categories of people across the country who don’t live in their native places…. It will open a Pandora’s box if such arrangements were to be made,” Singh
said. dora’s box if such arrangements were to be made,” Singh said. Poll matters The All Ladakh Joint Action Committee has written to District Election Officer, Leh, saying, either all students from the Ladakh region, who are above 18 years of age, be airlifted to their respective native places or a polling station be set up in Jammu for their convenience n Ladakh parliamentary constituency comprises four Assembly segments, Nobra, Leh, Kargil and Zanskar, and has 1,59,949 electorate, including 78,781 female voters n Sitting Member of Parliament from Ladakh Ghulam Hassan Khan had won the 2009 parliamentary polls by just 3,708 votes ‘No road connectivity to Ladakh’ At present, all roads to the Ladakh region are closed due to snow. The Election Commission should seriously look into our demand and make some alternative arrangements in Jammu so that we can easily cast our votes — Tsewang Nurbco, a political science student
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Ex-militant’s wife attempts suicide
Srinagar, April 13 With such cases increasing among these returned families, the much-talked about policy for rehabilitation of former militants of Kashmir, who had crossed the Line of Control for receiving arms training, is falling apart. The families accused the government authorities of dashing their hopes. Saira Bhat, 30, who was married to Javaid Ahmad Bhat, a Kashmiri former Militant, burnt herself by pouring kerosene on herself three days ago after seeing no hope of meeting her parents back in Muzaffarabad, says her husband. "We have been deceived from all sides. I too feel like ending my life now, but then I think of my little children," says Javaid Ahmad, who lives in Naidkhai Sumbal. Javaid has three children - two daughters and a son - all below nine years of age. "The government deceived us with the rehabilitation policy. It does not exist anywhere. I kept on giving false hopes to her, but today it was the end and I failed," he said sobbing. Ehsan-ul-Haq, who heads "the Jammu and Kashmir Haqeeqi Movement" representing the union of former militants, who returned to the Valley after 2011 under the government's rehabilitation policy, too feels dejected by the government's "callousness" in implementing the policy. "We are all suffering from different ailments. Incidents such as suicides will continue till the policy is not implemented. The government deceived us by making false promises. Death is better than this life," he says. Around 400 families returned to the Valley from Pakistan-administered Kashmir via Nepal three years ago. The former militants and their families have many a time held protests demanding implementation of the rehabilitation scheme since then. They have also been demanding travel documents so that they could visit their families in Pakistan. Doctors at Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, where Saira has been admitted for the past three days, said, "She has received more than 95 per cent burns and there is no possibility of her survival. It is her third day here," said Dr Parvez Ahmed. Javaid, who had left for arms training in 1993, says his wife would often complain to him about the broken promises of the rehabilitation policy and she was desperate to meet her parents in Muzaffarabad, but her hopes were dashed that forced her to end her life. The rehabilitation policy was announced by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah in 2010 to allow militants, who trained in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir, to return home through Nepal.
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Fervour marks Baisakhi celebrations
Jammu, April 13 The main attraction of the festival was stalls set-up by small-time vendors from various parts of the state and outside. The main items on display were household goods, Chinese toys, eatables, artificial jewellery, religious books, etc. The Tourism Department also organised many cultural programmes in various parts of the city. The main venue of these events was the historic Mubarak Mandi Complex, the royal residence of the erstwhile Dogra rulers of the state, which was illuminated with colourful lights. The department also set up several ethnic Dogra food stalls there. Baisakhi in the complex was first started by former Chief Minister and Union Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad during his tenure in 2006. Cultural extravaganza comprising traditional Dogra folk dances and songs was the main attraction of the festival. The department had called artistes from various parts of the state for the festival. Folk singers and artistes mesmerised the audience. The artistes also showcased the rich heritage of the Mubarak Mandi Complex through their art. In the Kanak Mandi area, the department organised famous “tonga ride" for the people, while cultural events were also being organised at the historic Raghunath Bazaar. The Raghunath Bazaar was illuminated with colourful lightings giving it a festive look. Other parts of the city were also soaked in festivity as locals organised Baisakhi fairs and cultural programmes. The festival was also celebrated in Akhnoor, around 28 km from Jammu city, with a lot of fanfare and traditional fervour. A larger number of people from different parts of the state are expected to take part at a function which will be held on the banks of the Chenab, Jia Potha, tomorrow. The spot has a historical significance as the first Dogra ruler of the state, Maharaja Gulab Singh, was coroneted there. Baisakhi mela is celebrated at the same place every year. NGO celebrates the festival with Bal Niketan inmates Jammu: Pahal, an NGO, celebrated Baisakhi today with the inmates of Bal Niketan at Kanak Mandi. Various free food stalls were also installed at the mela for children of the niketan. The traditional ‘tanga ride’ arranged by the Tourism Department was the main attraction of the mela. Shant Manu, Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Soujanaya Sharma, director, Tourism Department, Kiran Wattal, Commissioner, Jammu Municipal Corporation, and Danish Gupta, chairman, Citizen Cooperative Bank Ltd were also present on the occasion and encouraged the participating children. Those who were present on the occasion included Meenakashi Bhargav, Vishwamitter, Vipan Aggarwal, Jyoti MIttal, Ashish Gupta, Mohammad Hanief and Jasbir Singh.
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On the
frontline
Samajwadi Party leader and Uttar Pradesh minister Azam Khan perhaps doesn’t know where Kargil is located on the map. Worse still is the fact that he doesn’t know the history of Operation Vijay, which was launched by the Indian Army to evict Pakistani regulars from the Himalayan heights on the Indian side of the Line of Control (LoC) in the summer of 1999. Yet, he chose to make comments about the Kargil victory and attributed it to Muslim soldiers, ignoring the fact that the Indian Army doesn’t distinguish between Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs or Christians. As an eyewitness of Kargil war, this columnist can say that there was never ever a question of Hindus or Muslims in the 50-day war.
“This is my appeal to Hindu brethren that they should embrace us (Muslims) for no Hindu was responsible for getting the Kargil heights vacated by Pakistani soldiers, it were the Muslim soldiers who raised the (religious slogan) Naare-e-Taqbir, Allah-o- Akbar and regained the heights”. As part of the overall strategy, at one place, soldiers did raise this slogan during the war to dodge Pakistani soldiers. Once that was done, there was a hand-to-hand fight and Indian soldiers of all communities regained the height. Elsewhere, the Indian Army used different slogans and regained the heights. It was a combination of all communities in the Army that brought about the victory. Had Azam Khan read history, he would not have committed such a blunder. That could be one reason that he made such an irresponsible statement. But, it appears that his words were part of a deliberate political strategy to communalise the armed forces, just for the sake of a few votes. Had he been in Pakistan and made such comments about Hindu soldiers (one doubts if there is any Hindu in the Pakistani army), his fate would have been decided then and there itself. Regarding the Indian Army, if he has any doubts, he should ask the people of Kargil how the Army behaved, and rescued the Kargil population from bombs and artillery shelling coming from intruders, who were regulars of the Pakistani army. Kargil is a Shia Muslim-dominated district. Kargil is a symbol of the Army’s victory with the assistance of the local population and Nepali porters, who volunteered to carry arms, ammunition and ration for the soldiers fighting in the heights. Since Pakistani regulars were perched on heights, they had the advantage of throwing boulders from the rocky terrain at the Indian soldiers below. But the local population, which is indebted to the Army for rescuing it from the shelling, also took risks. Being well versed with the rocky terrain, locals helped the Army get ration and other supplies. That was the spirit that helped the Army win the war. Today, when there is peace on the border in Kargil as the soldiers are positioned in the Himalayan heights round the year, it is their presence that is giving a sense of high security to the people of Kargil, who are mostly Muslims. There is an unbreakable bond between the armed forces and the locals there. Azam Khan, while making the obnoxious remarks that he made, should have spoken to the Muslims in Kargil and asked them who was on the top. There were members of all communities in the olive green who fought for them. It is leaders such as Azam Khan who communalise the situation and don’t hesitate to spread this virus by involving the armed forces. The truth of the matter is that the Army in Kargil and in other parts of Jammu and Kashmir is closer to the population than the government is. It has undertaken many “goodwill projects”, ranging from arranging water to electricity for the local population. And, Azam Khan should also read the independent reports of the global think tanks and human rights groups, which declared that the Army had put its best foot forward while undertaking rescue operations after the October 2005 earthquake or during the snow tsunami in March the same year.
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Azad’s native village wears a festive look
Soti Bhalessa, April 13 Azad, who has grown in the shadows of this mountainous belt, continues to be revered by the people of both the religions and electorate here seems to have made their mood to make him win by a comfortable margin. “It is not about any party but for Ghulam Nabi
Azad, who lives in the hearts and minds of the people of this area, that elections have brought a festive atmosphere. People irrespective of religion or caste will support him… not only from here, but people of other areas of this constituency will also vote for him,” said 71-year-old Haji Muhammad Din, who runs a grocery store in Soti
village. Azad did his schooling from Government High School Khilotran before moving to Government Degree College,
Bhaderwah, to pursue his graduation. He later shifted to Kashmir valley for further studies. As the Congress leader is busy campaigning in other parts of this vast constituency, people here in Bhalessa are busy garnering support for their beloved
leader. Bhalessa is still considered to be one of the most backward parts of Doda district, but during the two and a half year tenure of Azad as the Chief Minister of the state this area witnessed some fast development. “There is no doubt that everything comes from the almighty, but it was Azad who changed the shape of this area. It was during his tenure that people of far off areas were connected with the road network,” said 38-year-old labourer Farooq Ahmad. “Earlier, people used to ferry ration and other things on ponies now they have access to vehicles and life has become a bit easy,” he
said. Azad remained at the helm of the Congress-PDP dispensation between 2005 and 2008. The enthusiasm is, however, not restricted to men only, women are also upbeat about elections. “We are eagerly waiting to vote for Azad
Saheb. Elections were of no meaning to us till Azad decided to contest and we are all geared up to make him a winner and that too with a huge margin,” said Zohra Begum. Such is the passion that you can hardly witness a vehicle without the Congress party
flag. Azad’s relatives living here are also making every attempt to garner support for him. They feel it is their responsibility to reach out to the people and seek vote and support for one of the tallest leaders of the state. “We are fully prepared for the job at hands. People here have accepted their responsibility to make him a winner,” said a confident Ghulam
Abbas, Azad’s younger brother. Despite unconditional support for Azad, people here are wish that the leader takes over the reigns of the state once again. “Since Azad left the state and new government was formed development of the area has taken a hit,” said Haji Muhammad Din. “A power grid was established here, but work hasn’t been completed so far. For days together people remain without electricity. There is a shortage of ration and other essential items also but nobody seems to be concerned about our plight,” he said, adding that once Azad reaches here we will convey our grievances to him.
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Work on Qamarwari road going on at snail’s pace
Srinagar, April 13 The work on this stretch started after the residents had complained to the authorities concerned for the repair of the road, but the work though started three years ago is going on “very slowly”. “Though the authorities concerned started the work on the road after we protested, it is going at a snail’s pace. We don’t understand why nobody questions them,” said Zameer Ahmed, a resident. The stretch is the main road for the residents of Qamarawari and
Parimpora. Residents said, “Delay in construction is creating difficulties for the movement of vehicles as well as commuters. The condition of our vehicles has worsened due to this road. During rain, the road gets flooded and during summer, there is dust all around. We don’t know where to go,” said another resident. The road also connects the city with north Kashmir and there is a huge rush of vehicles everyday. The area witnesses huge traffic jams during peak hours, thus making commuters suffer. “We have become used to traffic jams now. There is so much rush of vehicles as this road connects the national highway as well. The delay in its construction is creating more woes,” said a commuter from north Kashmir. Residents said, “Three years is more than enough to construct a 3-km road. We are tired of pleading before the authorities, but they seem to be unmoved by our problems.” Officials of the Roads and Bridges (R&B) wing of the PWD said, “We still have time till October to complete the construction of road. We will complete it by October as three years have not passed yet. The road is scheduled to be completed in the current year. Besides, the condition of the road has dilapidated due to rain, which we will repair,” said Chief Engineer of the R&B wing Mushtaq Ahmad Lone.
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Now, Bollywood to get govt approval to shoot in
Kashmir
Srinagar, April 13 Parvez said this on the sidelines of the ‘Spring Festival’ being organised by the Tourism Department here. The Director, Tourism, said this when pointed out that though Bollywood was being invited to promote tourism, most of the recent movies shot here were related to militancy and portrayed Kashmir negatively. “If we feel that the film will distort our history, we will suggest changes and then approval will be given in two days,” Parvez said. The Tourism Department is playing host to around four dozen persons related to Bollywood and the TV industry. These actors, directors, producers and writers were taken sightseeing so that they plan their major projects in the Valley. Secretary, Tourism, Zafar Ahmad said the Bollywood team was ‘mesmerised’ with the beauty of Kashmir and would plan shoots here. Producer-writer Asit Modi of TV serial ‘Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah’ fame promised he would present the beauty of Kashmir in one of the episodes. Well-known Bollywood director Imtiaz Ali is also among the list of invitees and he has shot here before. While the Tourism Department has been taking several initiatives, soaring airfares during the peak tourist season continue to play a spoilsport. Parvez said despite several pleas, the Centre had not done enough to tackle the issue of high airfares. He said all stakeholders should plead the case so that the Centre takes adequate measures to control exorbitant airfares to Kashmir.
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Primary school in Rajouri runs from a rented room
Rajouri, April 13 About a week ago, the village panchayat, in a resolution, informed the Chief Education Officer that a local, Kashmir Singh, had offered his land free of cost for the construction of a new building, about 500m from the existing building. Ch Lal Hussain, Chief Education Officer (CEO), said his office had not received any such resolution. “Landslide caused by torrential rain damaged the building. The report of the loss suffered and the money required for repairing the building was submitted to the District Development Commissioner’s office. But there has been no response so far,” said the CEO. He said it was not possible to construct a new building, as in the initial report, the money demanded was only for the building repair. The village sarpanch said a deputation of villagers would meet the Deputy Commissioner on Monday so that the money for constructing the new building on donated land was released soon. Sources said the building was constructed under the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan scheme in 2011 and handed over to the school authorities in 2012. Abdul Khaliq, sarpanch of Halal village, said the building collapsed when it was raining in July-August last year. “Had the building collapsed during the day, many students would have died,” said the village sarpanch. Khaliq said the matter was brought to the notice of the Zonal Education Officer at Moghla. However, he said no action was taken by the officials concerned and the Education Department.
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Craft exhibition at Mubarak Mandi inaugurated
Jammu, April 13 The Divisional Commissioner appreciated the work of these craftsmen and showed keen interest in the paintings and other art related works. He went around the exhibition and interacted with the artisans and the visitors. The visitors appreciated the role of the Tourism Department in organising such festivals which depict the rich heritage culture of the state and country. Earlier, the Divisional Commissioner was received by the Director, Tourism, Jammu, Soujanya Sharma and other officials of the Tourism Department. In the evening, a cultural programme was also presented by the artists from Assam, Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan. Artists from Rajasthan performed the famous puppet show of the state, which revived the old memories of the famous "putali" dance. They depicted various moods of puppets which were applauded by the gathering. Assam's 'bihu' dance was another centre of attraction of the cultural evening. Young artists from Assam gave a scintillating performance. Himachali dance also drew a lot of applauds from the people. The illuminated portion of the Mubarak Mandi Heritage Complex was the centre of attraction for all.
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Minibuses give harrowing time to passengers, road users
Jammu, April 13 Further drivers and conductors are not wearing mandatory "khaki" uniform, despite directions by the district administration several years ago and at times high-pitched music makes drivers almost crazy and they speed up the vehicles, ignoring the fact that passengers are in them and it will put their lives in danger. "Drivers compete with one another for passengers and pose a threat to their lives as well as pedestrians. However, traffic police personnel turn a blind eye to the violations," alleged Gaurav Sharma, a university student. The sudden halting by Matadors on the busy roads has become a major cause of traffic jams and over-speeding by mini-bus drivers has already claimed several lives. When contacted,
SSP, Traffic, Pawan Parihar claimed that a campaign against the mini-bus drivers violating the rules would be started by end of this month. "We are waiting for the Lok Sabha elections to end after that action will be taken," he said. Thousands of people daily face risk to their lives by travelling in these road monsters, praying to reach their destination safely. Playing of high-pitch music by drivers, overcrowding and reckless driving have become a daily phenomenon. Despite several drives launched by the traffic police to streamline the traffic movement in the city, it seems that there is no one to rein in these monsters on wheels, traveling with total disregard for the rules.
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Pesticides major reason for brain cancer in Valley:
Kalam
Srinagar, April 13 The former President who inaugurated the first-ever “International Cellular and Molecular Mechanism of Disease Processes Conference” at the University of Kashmir said the time was right to bring alternative resources of antibiotics in the medical treatment history to combat the fatal disease. He said the universities and research organisations worldwide should coordinate and build a sophisticated healthcare industry for tackling chronic disorders. He said he was fond of Kashmir and expressed his desire to come back. “I have a dream of coming again to the Valley. The next time will be for another international conference,” Kalam said. He praised technology and innovation in ushering in a new era of development in the healthcare sector. He said the excessive use of smartphones and the social media
had led to brain deformities as well. The former President urged for convergence of technology and life sciences for better medical intervention. He said genetic engineering should be made a research study subject which could contribute to the development of
medicare. He appreciated the University of Kashmir for organising the conference and hoped that the outcome of the discussions among scientists would contribute towards controlling the spread of dreaded diseases.
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Implement Immovable Property Act: Pandits
Jammu, April 13 Raising slogans against the state government, protesters alleged that land grabbers in connivance with some local officials of the administration had been encroaching upon their properties in an illegal way. Speaking on the occasion, movement president Vijay Raina alleged that despite repeated pleas to the government and the local administration, no step had been taken to act against land mafia. He said since the exodus of the Hindus from the Valley, hundreds of kanals of land had been illegally sold without the knowledge of their original owners and cases were pending in court. Protesters warned to intensify their agitation if the government continued to ignore their plea. “No land, which has been taken over by wrong entries in land records, has been restored to the Pandits,” said Raina. "We demand a CBI probe into illegal selling and encroachment of temple land by mafias, which has become a major threat to the ancient heritage of the Hindus," he said. “Some people are selling property of temples, which is illegal, but there is an active involvement of the revenue authorities,” he said.
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Need for pathological labs in each district: Vohra
Srinagar, April 13 Vohra stressed that scientists should be made aware of incidence and disease pattern in J&K, particularly the toll taken by influenza, allergic problems, Hepatitis C, diabetes, cardio-vascular and respiratory diseases and cancer. He urged scientists to focus on practical approach towards early detection, prompt diagnosis and preventive measures for saving precious lives. The Governor also said there was a need to set up pathological laboratories in each district so that patients did not have to travel long distances for treatment. He expressed hope that the event would consider evolving a practical model for early detection and effective management of diseases from which the people of J&K suffer.
Vohra urged the KU Vice Chancellor to explore sustainable research project linkages with the private sector so that joint public-private sector initiatives, involving the university, could contribute to improved healthcare facilities in the state. Earlier, former President APJ Abdul Kalam inaugurated the four-day conference. President of the German Science Academy Dr Yog
Hecker; Director General, Indian Council of Medical Research, Dr VM
Katoch, and Secretary, Bio Technology, Dr Vijay Raghwan, were present.
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Dogs attack 12 persons in Kupwara district
Kupwara, April 13 Mehvish Rashid, a Class V student, and Farida Begum, both residents of Wadipora, were taken to the SMHS after being bitten by dogs. Some of the injured have been identified as Javid Ahmad Shah, Sajad Ahmad Dar, both residents of Chalpora village in Handwara tehsil, and Bilal Ahmad Bhat of Wadipora. The other injured could not be identified. Medical Superintendent, District Hospital, Handwara, Dr Rouf Ahmad said nine persons who were bitten by dogs were treated at the hospital. “Most of them were bitten on the legs. We administered them anti-rabies vaccine and discharged them from the hospital after treatment,” the Medical Superintendent said. Meanwhile, residents of Gushi, Wadipora, Bakiakar, Chalpora and Vodhpora villages say the rabid dogs may have spread the infection to other dogs. “The dogs are on the prowl. Children and women are especially vulnerable to dog attacks. We appeal to the municipal authorities to keep a check on the growing population of dogs and save us from their attacks,” said Nazir Ahmad Malik, a resident of
Gushi.
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International conference on maxillofacial surgery ends
Srinagar, April 13 Director, SKIMS, Dr Showkat Zargar congratulated the department of maxillofacial surgery and orthodontics, SKIMS Medical College, for organising the conference. He said, "SKIMS gives importance to these events as they are of great educational value in which reputed medical professionals get a chance to interact and deliberate on new medical practices and allow participants to have their issues addressed on a specific topic by recognised experts in the field who are abreast with latest developments in the field." The conference was attended by faculty from the USA, the UK, Germany, Spain and various parts of India. The patients operated during the live surgery workshop included Tabasum Bhat (29) operated for bilateral sagittal split osteotomy with mandibular set back (shortening of a large mandible), Insha (15) operated for TMJ release and resection of ankylotic mass by Dr Ramos Benito (Spain), Nazish (11) operated for Rhinoplasty by Dr Anil Punjabi (USA) and Mudhabira (10) operated for distraction (lengthening of mandible) by Dr Mohammad
Shakeel, head of the department of maxillofacial surgery, SKIMS Medical College,
Bemina.
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Water sports organised on Day 2 of Spring Fest
Srinagar, April 13 Bollywood singer Shweta Pandit and actress Deepti Bhatnagar, who is also the brand ambassador of J&K tourism, were also present. Parvez said Kashmir was blessed with mountains, lakes, and rivers that offered ample opportunities for conducting water sports activities. Bhatnagar said, "Kashmir is a paradise on earth which needs to be explored." In the evening, a cultural programme was presented at the Sher-e-Kashmir International Convention Centre (SKICC) on the banks of the Dal Lake. The Spring Festival will conclude tomorrow. Highlights
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NC will protect JK’s special status:
Farooq
Farooq, who addressed a meeting of prominent citizens and elders at the
Shah-e-Hamdaan Community Centre at Khankah-e-Moulah locality in the old city, also lashed out at the opposition
PDP, saying it did “little beyond talking” during its tenure. Farooq was accompanied by senior National Conference leaders, including Minister for Rural Development Ali Muhammad Sagar and NC Provincial President and MLA Nasir Aslam
Wani. “National Conference will continue to safeguard the identity, culture and special status of the state of J&K --- a cause for which the party had rendered innumerable sacrifices,” Farooq said. Later in the afternoon, Farooq also addressed a public meeting at
Chanpora. Farooq said the PDP during its tenure in the government did “little beyond talking and raising hollow slogans”. “Mufti Mohammad Sayeed had an uncanny ability to claim credit for the achievements and contributions of others and it is this tendency to lie that showcases PDP's lack of ability and will to perform for the welfare of the state,” Farooq said. The Union Minister also said the PDP patron’s noises on corruption were “hypocritical and ironic”.
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Wani cautions people against communal forces
Doda, April 13 He said despite provocations and conspiracies, the people of the district had always defied forces inimical to peace. Replaying to a question on an inordinate delay in providing compensation to Kishtwar riot victims, he said, “It was an unfortunate incident. The inquiry is on and the government has also announced a package for their rehabilitation.” Asked about the “Modi wave”, he said, “I have not seen any wave in the state or even in the country. The Modi wave is created by the media.” On Modi’s chances of becoming the Prime Minister, Wani said, “Indian Prime Minister should always be of a secular character.” Seeking vote for Union Health Minister Ghulam Nabi
Azad, he said, “We are fortunate because we have a candidate like Azad. He has done tremendous work during his tenure as the Chief Minister of the state and even being the Union Minister.” He cautioned people against communal and divisive forces and said people should understand the designs of such forces, who were bent on weakening the secular fabric, unity and integrity of the country.
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Cong, NC not doing justice with SPOs, VDCs: BJP
Jammu, April 13 Addressing a series of election rallies in Doda, Khan, who was the founder of VDC’s in the erstwhile district, said the SPOs and members of VDCs gave their life and blood to fight terrorism. “SPOs and VDC members have played a major role in bringing back normalcy in remote and hilly parts of the state, but justice is not being done with them,” the IGP said. Khan accused the Congress and the NC of “exploiting true nationalists” by not addressing their long-pending demands and asked the people to vote for the BJP. “The government has rehabilitated persons involved in terrorism and other anti-national activities, but unfortunately they have turned a deaf ear to the genuine demands of SPOs and VDC members,” he said. The BJP leder added that SPOs and VDC members were performing similar work to that of a regular police officer and were entitled to be paid equal salary and allowances.
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Economic Reconstruction Agency holds workshop
Jammu, April 13 About 100 participants were present during the proceeding of the workshop. Alok Mengi in his welcome address spoke about the capacity-building programme being funded by the ADB and its relevance in improving the project execution and urban policy reforms. Avinash Zutshi, team leader, PMC-JKUSDIP, ERA, presented a brief report about the session and the speakers. Dr SK Gupta, senior professor from Government College of Engineering and Technology, Jammu, Dr MY Shah and Javed Ahmad Naqash, senior professor from the National Institute of Technology from Srinagar, KS Samyal, I/C material testing of DSC, and Abu Baker G Mulla CM and QC expert of PMC were the speakers. The vote of the thanks was presented by Shakti Sagar Sharma.
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256 Army men to vote as service voters outside
state
Srinagar, April 13 “The electronic voting machines
(EVMs) will be dispatched to all the designated polling booths to ensure participation of service voters,” the assistant returning officer
(ARO) said. Of the 256 armed forces personnel, figures revealed that 97 belonged to Ganderbal district, 38 to Srinagar district and 121 to Budgam district of the Srinagar constituency. “We have already included these service voters in the draft of the final list from the constituency,” the ARO said. Over 30,000 voters who have migrated from the Srinagar constituency will vote as migrant voters in various parts of the country on April 30. “Till now, we have 30,054 migrant voters from the constituency, who will vote in various parts of the country on April 30. A majority of them are Kashmiri
Pandits, he said. “Till last update, the total number of electors in the Srinagar constituency stood at 11, 71, 752,” the ARO added.
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Work on Kalnai power project yet to
start
Thathri (Doda), April 13 The project envisages construction of a 49-metre concrete gravity dam across the Lower Kalnai
Nullah, a tributary of the Chenab, at Dunaddi, about 200m downstream of the confluence of the Upper Kalnai and Kangunegad
Nullahs. The project is a part of the ‘vision 20,000 MW’ projected by the Chief Minister. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 576.87 crore and was scheduled to be completed in four years. “Since the Chief Minister visited the area last year, no headway has been towards the project. We have not seen any person reaching here with any kind of equipment to start the work,” said Ayaz Ahmad, 28, a
local. JKSPDC officials said the work on the project would start soon. “It takes time in mobilising resources. I am hopeful that within a fortnight, work will start on the prestigious project,” said Mehraj Ahmad
Kakroo, Managing Director, JKSPDC.
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SDP extends support to BJP
Jammu, April 13 “During the tenure of Atal Bihari Vajpayee as the Prime Minister of India, J&K saw the real development at the ground level for the first time,” Andrabi said, adding Vajpayee’s peace initiatives were favourable for the people of the state. “He started a process of dialogue within the state and with Pakistan also, which had begun a new era of peace and development,” she recalled. Andrabi urged people to vote for the BJP candidate as he was a “dedicated social servant”. She said it was the time to initiate a positive political change in the state and the country.
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inevitable not only in Jammu and Kashmir but also in New Delhi,” PDP patron Mufti Mohammad Sayeed said while addressing people in the Kanelwan area of Bijbehara in Anantnag parliamentary constituency.
Srinagar, April 13
The city celebrated Baisakhi with traditional fervour and gaiety with the Tourism Department and various organisations holding cultural events to mark the festival.
Thousands of people thronged the Canal road here to be a part of the Baisakhi Mela being held on the banks of the Ranbir Canal, which was also opened for irrigation purpose today.
Soti Bhalessa, April 13
With no dedicated public transport system and commuters depending on mini-buses for their daily travel in the city, the situation has become a harrowing experience for people. Most of the drivers don't follow traffic lights, particularly at Bikram
Chowk, Janipur, Kachi Chawni and Indira Chowk, which has become a major menace for the commuters.
As many as 256 armed forces personnel from the Srinagar constituency will vote as service voters on April 30 in their respective places of posting outside the state as per the statistics with the returning officer, Srinagar.
“The electronic voting machines (EVMs) will be dispatched to all the designated polling booths to ensure participation of service voters,” the assistant returning officer
(ARO) said. Of the 256 armed forces personnel, figures revealed that 97 belonged to Ganderbal district, 38 to Srinagar district and 121 to Budgam district of the Srinagar constituency.
