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BJP opposes PRC Disqualification Bill
Demands passing of Women’s Reservation
Bill in State Legislature
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: Opposing the bill introduced in J&K Legislative Council by People’s Democratic Party (PDP) pertaining to Disqualification of Permanent Residence Status in case a female resident from J&K marries a non-resident of the state, Pradesh BJP today demanded Women’s Reservation Bill to be passed in J&K Legislature on the pattern of bill passed in Rajya Sabha.
“We express our total disagreement with the private members bill introduced in Legislative Council by PDP as it is against the spirit of the State Constitution and its preamble, which guarantees equal rights and opportunities to the women”, BJP senior leaders told reporters here.
Criticising the coalition Government headed by Omar Abdullah for remaining silent on this bill, the leader of BJP legislature party Chaman Lal Gupta said “both National Conference and Congress should have not allowed the introduction of the bill in initial stage”.
The matter has been settled by the judiciary on the issue and there is no occasion to reopen the issue, he said and condemned the role of Congress for not rejecting the bill at its inception stage.
Gupta and former State President and Jammu East MLA Ashok Khajuria, said that they fully support the bill granting reservation to the women.
BJP will fully cooperate with the state government over the issue of giving reservation to women they said, adding that they urge the government to legislate a similar Act in the State Legislature.
Khajuria warned that the party will not allow the smooth proceedings of the assembly if the PDP bill introduced in the council is allowed for consideration.
This issue will also be raised in the parliament by BJP soon, Gupta said in reply to a question.
Both BJP leaders said that delimitation of assembly constituencies is a core issue for the party and they will continue to fight for justice for Jammu division which has only 37 assembly segments despite a larger area and more population as against Kashmir valley which has 46 assembly segments with lesser population and lesser area.

Bhim Singh congratulates people of Doda
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: In a district convention of Panthers Party activists was held in Doda town, District headquarters by the Panthers Party which was addressed by Prof. Bhim Singh, chairman, J&K National Panthers Party, Shri B.B. Kotwal Adv., Vice-Chairman, District President, Farooq Ahmed Dar and others, Prof. Bhim Singh congratulated the people of Doda who have remained united ‘to maintain communal harmony and brotherhood in spite of the terrorist assault on the minorities in the district’. He accused Congress and NC for conniving with anti-social and anti-national elements to keep their ruling clique going.
Prof Bhim Singh also accused the government of exploiting thousands of youth in Doda by enrolling them as SPOs and VDC members. He demanded immediate regularisation of SPOs who have been working as constables and defending the innocent people from the wrath of the terrorists particularly in Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban and Poonch areas. He said that thousands of VDC members have been deprived of their wages and not even provided social security for their families after their death in operation.
Further, he added that Congress stood completely exposed when the Congress Ministers supported a Bill on ‘Disqualification of women on their marriage outside the state’ inside the Legislative Council the other day.

Display Your Talent 2009-2010
Government Women’s College lifts overall champion trophy
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: The team of Government Women’s College, Gandhi Nagar, emerged as the overall champion in the prize distribution function of Display Your Talent 2009-2010 which was held at Brig. Rajinder Singh Auditorium of Jammu University. Government Degree College, Parade, was the runner up. Prof. Varun Sahni, Vice Chancellor of the University of Jammu, was chief guest on the occasion.
While addressing the gathering, Sahni complemented the winners and hoped that the talented students will perform well in forth coming zonal as well as national youth festivals and bring laurels to the University.
Kanwar Iqbal of Government Medical College, Jammu, bagged the Prof. YB Singh Memorial Trophy for overall best performance in fine arts and was also adjudged as the overall best student of the ‘Display Your Talent’ contest. He was presented Pankaj Mohan Bhatla Memorial Trophy.
Dr. Jagmohan Singh Memorial Trophy for the best team in debating was awarded to Government College of Engineering and Technology Jammu whereas Dr. Surinder Sharma Memorial Trophy for best team in quiz went to Government Degree College, Kathua.
Government Women’s College, Parade clinched Dr. JR Sharma Memorial trophy and Vijay Verma Memorial Trophy for overall best performance in music. Prof. Santosh Sharma Memorial trophy for the all round best performance in Theatrical events was won by GWC Gandhi Nagar.
Mementos were awarded to Priya Raina and Rahul Kumar for excelling in mimicry and light vocal music respectively in the national youth festival held at Maharishi Dayanand University, Rohtak.
Awards of appreciation were also presented to the Rameshwari Slathia, secretary, Students Cultural Council, Ankita Gupta, Indu Bagal and Meenakshi Anand, Joint Secretaries of the Students Cultural Council. Mementos were also given to Prof. VS Manhas, Dr. Kamlesh Slathia and Kulbhushan Thakur who escorted the JU cultural troupe for participation in zonal and national Youth Festival.
Photo exhibition of Display Your Talent entitled “Going Down Memory Lane” conceived and designed by Vijay Atri, Assistant Dean, mime by the students of GGM Science College and the Gujarati dance performed by the team from Government Women’s College, Parade, were highly appreciated by the audience.
Prof. JS Tara, Dean, Students’ Welfare delivered the welcome address while Prof. GM Bhat, chairman, Campus Cultural Committee, presented the vote of thanks.
Dr. PS Pathania, Registrar, Prof. Versha Mehta, Co-Chairperson, Campus, Cultural Committee, heads of the teaching departments, principals and staff of the affiliated colleges, members of the campus cultural committee, students cultural council, faculty members, officers, staff, research scholars, students were also present on the occasion.

PRC bill anti women, unconstitutional: Thakur Randhir Singh
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, MAR 11: Former Minister of NCP, Thakur Randhir Singh has opposed the permanent resident certificate disqualification bill being introduced in the legislative council of the state.
Terming the bill as anti-women and unconstitutional, Randhir said that it is surprising to note that the bill has not been opposed by the Congress and NC. He added that he would take the issue with the NCP high command. NCP chief said that the party will do its best in safeguarding the interest of state at all forums.

Training programme on pest management at SKUAST
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, MAR 11: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology organised a five day training programme on “Recent advances in integrated diseases management for sustainable agriculture” in which officers of State agriculture department, command area development and horticulture department participated.
Director extension education, Dr. K.S. Rissam stressed upon the need for enhancing the production and productivity in all the major crops of the area.
Head of division of Plant Pathology, Prof. V.K Razdan, highlighted the importance of integrated pest management in order to reduce the total dependence on chemical pesticides.
Razdan emphasized the need for incorporating different management measures like biological control, resistance and physical methods to reduce the losses caused by diseases and pests.

First Manzar Azmi memorial lecture to be organised
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: The first Manzar Azmi memorial lecture would be organised in the second week of April 2010, for which a scholar of international repute would be invited to Jammu University to deliver the lecture for which National Council for Promotion of Urdu language, ministry of HRD has granted sanction.
The lecture has been sanctioned in the memory of some reputed scholars of Urdu who have contributed to the Urdu language.
Head of Department, University of Jammu, Prof. Shohab Inayat Malik announced that the Manzar Azmi memorial lecture would be an annual feature of the Urdu department.
Shohab mentioned that Prof. Manzar Azmi served department of Urdu, university of Jammu from 1920 to 1993.

Mazdoor Conference urges FM to fulfill demands
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: President of the National Mazdoor Conference Subhash Shastri has urged the Finance Minister, A.R. Rather, to fulfill the demands of employees and daily wagers in the state’s budget be presented in the legislature.
Shastri focused the attention of the finance minister on the long pending demands of employees including payment of 6th pay commission arrears; raising HRA from fifteen percent to twenty percent.
Subhash Shastri expected that the plight of the workers will be taken into account and the finance minister will pay attention to their demands.

Free eye camp organised
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: Free eye check up camp was organised by senior eye surgeon, Dr. Ashok Sharma at Talab Tillo, Jammu in which people from different sections of the society availed the services of the camp. Free medicines were also provided to needy patients.
The camp was inaugurated by former deputy chief minister, Pundit Mangat Ram Sharma who appreciated the efforts made by the organizers of the camp.

Bio- degradable bags launched
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: Oxo Bio Degradable Polythene was launched by Ridi Gala Enterprises today at Jammu.
Minister of States for Environment, CAPD, PDD, Forest & Labour, Shabir Ahmed Khan was the chief guest on this occasion.
Addressing media persons, the minister, expressing his happiness on introduction of this polythene, said people of Jammu are quite aware of the nuisance caused by use of non - bio degradable polythene products. He appreciated the new concept of launching eco- friendly Oxo bio degradable polythene bags in Jammu by Ridi Gala Enterprises.
Informing about the benefits of Oxo bio degradable plastics, Dinesh Verma said that it begins to degrade after six to eight months if used while it takes eighteen months to disintegrate if it is not used. It does not depend upon sunlight or microbes for degradation, its degradation process is unstoppable and can be preset to begin at a particular time. Sunlight, stress and increased temperature fasten its degradation, it degrades into water, carbon di-oxide and biomass.
Polythene bags made of totally degradable plastics will degrade not only in sunlight but even in waterways and in landfills. It will not harm animals even if it is ingested, as the bacteria and temperature present in the guts of animals, would accelerate the degradation process, and will not kill animals., said Verma.

Hero Honda holds contest at MIET
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: A Personality Development Contest was held at Model Institute of Engineering and Technology (MIET) here today.
As per a statement issued the contest was organized by M/S Hero Honda. The aim of this event was to motivate students to take part in a variety of events and select the best student for the event.
M/s Hero Honda has been conducting this event in various cities of the country. Twenty different types of events are conducted including song competition, modeling, dancing, push ups, sit ups etc. Hundreds of students took part in the competitions. Best students will be called to Chandigarh to take part in the All India Mr. Hero Hunk competition.
Rajesh from 5th semester of electronics and communication department was declared as Mr. Hunk of MIET.

BJP opposes proposed electric tariff hike
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar11: “Proposed electric tariff hike will directly influence inflation and will become a serious cause of concern in the state, the BJP is strongly against it and will fight if the proposed tariff hike is implemented,” said Rajesh Gupta, President, BJP’s Industry, Trade and Tourism Wing.
While addressing media persons here today, Gupta stated that they had submitted their objections to state electricity regulatory commission and requested it not to recommend electric tariff hike in either the industrial, commercial or domestic sector. He further added that the Industrial, Trade and Tourism sectors in the state need continuous support from the government for their survival and development and the proposed hike will badly affect the industry.
He further added that transmission losses faced by the PDD department will only worsen due to non-payment of bills by certain sections of people and various other department officials and the department was silent over the details.
He added that this attempt may further burden honest paying consumers. BJP state unit maintained that they will fight tooth and nail to prevent the state government from implementing electric tariff hikes.

Two JJSF members begin hunger strike
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar11: On the 35th consecutive day of protest launched by Jammu Joint Students’ Federation (JJSF) for the demand of concession in syllabus, two activists of JJSF went on a ‘fast unto death’ (Hunger Strike) in the city at Shaheedi Sthal, Jammu. The students on hunger strike, namely Mohd. Arif and Yogesh Talwar, had been fasting since March 10 for gaining concession in syllabus. Students of various degree colleges also continued their protest under the banner of JJSF.
Pushvinder Singh, State President, JJSF said that the Federation started the agitation on February 5. He said that at least 180 lectures are required as per UGC guidelines but this year only 40-45 lectures were held during the period, making it impossible for students to complete the syllabus. The JU should look after the matter and should not play with the future of students, he said. Singh appealed to all the MLAs belonging to Jammu Region to put the students’ voice in the assembly.
Leaders of different students organisations including Dr. Vimal Singh Manhas (State President, AISF) and Ashwani Parihar (Vice President, AISF), Koushal Kumar (Council Member AISF) and some PSA leaders namely Rahul Sharma (President, PSA) and Rohit (Activist, PSA) also give support to JJSF fighting for their agitation demanding concession in syllabus for the 3-year Degree Courses. Partap Singh Jamwal (State Vice President, JJSF) welcomed the support of these student organisations for their genuine cause.

JKSPF appeals to resolve J&K issue
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: Jammu and Kashmir Social Peace Forum (JKSPF) has appealed to both India and Pakistan to start the peace process and resolve the core issue of Jammu and Kashmir.
In a meeting of JKSPF members held under the chairmanship of Devinder Singh Behal, chairman of the Forum, Behal said that peaceful and durable settlement of J&K state issue lies only in sincere and meaningful dialogue with the involvement of all the parties so that peace can be established in South Asia.
The Forum strongly condemned the recent blast in Lahore. Ramnik Singh and Manpreet Singh also spoke on the occasion.

Regularised ReT teachers demand seniority benefits
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: Demanding modification in a government order, All J&K Regularized ReT Teachers Forum has urged upon the government to provide seniority benefits to regularised ReT teachers from their date of appointment.
In a meeting which was held here today under the chairmanship of Forum president Surinder Kumar Choudary, the members appealed to the Minister for Education Peerzada Mohd Sayeed, Secretary Education G A Peer, Director School Education Zahida Parveen Khan and Chief Education Officer (CEO) Jammu Natha Ram Dingra to modify the Govt Order number 115 Education of 2008 dated 29-04-2008 in partial modification of Govt Order number 396 Education of 2000 dated 28-04-2000 issued under endorsement no Education/Prpl Secy/PS/3/2000 exclusively for pension.
The members said that under the order number 115, the government has given pensionary benefits to the ReT from the date of joining but no seniority benefits were extended to them. Consequently, their five years service as ReT is going unaccounted.
They urged upon the higher authorities of the Education department to provide service benefits from their date of appointment as ReT.
We are demanding only notional service benefits and not the financial benefits which means there shall be no burden on the state exchequer, said Surinder Choudhary.
Demanding transfer of regularised ReT teachers after two years, the Forum members said most female teachers are now married in inter zone /inter district areas and it has become very difficult for them to reach their place of posting after covering a distance of 50 km or above.
They also demanded regularisation of Education Volunteers (EVs) who have completed their five years tenure either as EV or as ReT and enhancement of wages from Rs 1500 to Rs 3000 at an earliest.
Among others who were present in the meeting included Vinay Sharma, Madan Chib, Rajinder Singh, Jagdish Singh, Anil Choudhary, Dr Khem Raj, Dr Kiran Kumar, Asha Choudhary, Sweta Sharma, Sunita, Tarsem Singh and others.

Kishtwar pensioners go on dharna
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: District Pensioners Forum, Kishtwar organised a protest Dharna under the chairmanship of Tilak Raj Sen, Retd CEO yesterday. Pensioners in large numbers participated to highlight their long outstanding demands including payment of arrears in one installment to pensioners from January 2006, payment of 6 pc and 5 pc D.A. from January 2009 and July 2009 expeditiously, enhancement of medical expenses to the pensioners, employment of one family member in government service, removal of anomalies of pension and allowances of pre and post retirement of pensioners.
Hans Raj, president, Nazir Ahmed Zargar, Shahid Malik, Sobha Ram and Noor Hussain Malik were among the speakers who strongly urged the arresting of price hike to relieve poor people and fixed income groups from undue hardship.

Woman killed in accident
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: An unidentified woman was killed in an accident at Ratnuchak.
Police said that 30 years old unidentified woman was hit by an unknown vehicle in Ratnuchak near Greater Kailash. She was died on spot and with the help of locals police shifted the body to GMC for postmortem and identification.
A case has been registered in Police Station Gangyal and the search of unidentified vehicle was on as the last report came in.

Corruption case
Challan produced against AEE Railways
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: After completion of investigations in corruption case, Central Bureau Investigation (CBI) today produced a challan against an Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE) of Northern Railways in the court of additional special judge.
As per the chargesheet, Rajiv Jasrotia, a railway contractor of Hiranagar (Kathua), got two contracts worth Rs 1.5 crores for laying pathway between Jammu and Vijaypur in 2006. He completed the work in 2007.
When he approached the Northern Railways' AEE B B Mittal to get the security amount of Rs 7 lakh released, he allegedly demanded a bribe of Rs 10,000 from him. Despite repeated visits to him, Mittal did not release the security Jasrotia approached CBI and lodged a written complaint against him.
Acting on the complaint, CBI sleuths laid a trap and caught Mittal red-handed while accepting Rs 10,000 as bribe from Jasrotia. A case FIR number 8 of 2009 was then registered against Mittal under section 161 of RPC and section 5(1)(d) of Prevention of Corruption Act.
After the completion of investigation in the case by Inspector Bhagwan Dass Dandia, CBI today presented challan in the court of additional special judge, anti-corruption, here, through senior public prosecutor, CBI, S K Bhat.

Removal of sand from cremation ground
Protestors block Doda-Kishtwar road for 3 hours
Saidullah Rangrez
DODA, Mar 10: People today blocked the Doda-Kishtwar road for at-least three hours demanding action against a contractor, who allegedly removed sand from a cremation ground in Prem Nagar area, about 17 km from here.
Raising slogans, thousands of protestors including women and children from 13 Panchayats of Prem Nagar block gathered at 'Pul Par' Prem Nagar and they blocked the road at 10 am. They demanded action against the contractor Saleem Raza Wani for hurting their sentiments.
The protest was also supported by the members of Muslim community. The vehicular traffic on both sides of the road was completely choked due to protest and dharna.
Joginder Sharma one of the protestors said that the contractor started extracting sand from the cremation ground which is a sacred place for the people of 13 Panchayats of Prem Nagar as they are performing all the last rites in case of any death at the same spot. As the cremation ground is situated in the bank of Chenab, the people are submerging the last remains after cremation here that the place had sanctity equal to Devak in Udhampur as temple is also constructed on the bank of river.
"We are protesting against administration for allowing the contractor to extract sand from sacred place and giving 48 kanals of land of cremation ground on lease. This cremation ground (Mari) was being used by the people from over five decades and temple situated on the bank of river chenab (Chandarbhaga) had great reverence for us," said another protestor Suram Chand Shan, adding that the people would not allow any tempering of the place.
"We have no objection in case the sand is extracted from any other place but this place would not be allowed for such purpose due to its sanctity," Shan added.
Similar were the views of other protestors also. They blocked road till 1pm resulting in worst traffic chaos on both ends of the road. The passengers had to face great hardship.
Senior police officials including ASP Bhaderwah TR Katoch, SDPO Bhaderwah Abdul Qayoom, DYSP Headquarters Nazir Ahmed Ganai and the officers of local administration including Tehsildar Thathri Amar Singh and Tehsildar Doda Suman Bhagat rushed to the spot. They, however, persuade the protestors to lift the dharna and allow smooth movement of traffic. Tehsildar Doda assured that action will be taken against contractor if found guilty adding that the extraction would not be allowed from the place in future.
After assurance people lifted dharna and traffic between Doda-Kishtwar was restored after 1 PM.
Contractor Saleem Raja Wani said that he had taken the land on lease for ten years after following proper procedure.
Administration also clarified that the cremation ground had only 2 kanals of land.

Matrimonial dispute
Woman, NGO ransack house at Shastri Nagar
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: A woman, who had a matrimonial dispute with her husband, allegedly ransacked her in-laws house in connivance with members of Non Governmental Organisation (NGO) at Shastri Nagar today and she escaped along with her minor son.
Her in-laws joined by some relatives staged protest over the incident and they blocked road for an hour demanding registration of case against the woman and NGO members.
A case was registered later in Police Station Gandhi Nagar for ransacking the house.
Police said that Shivani resident of Nowshera married Ashwani Kumar Goel resident of Shastri Nagar at-least 10 years ago. Due to strained relations with her husband, she left him 6 years ago. The case pertaining to matrimonial dispute and custody of her two sons Umesh, 7, and Sumesh, 6, was pending in court .
But today, police said, Shivani appeared at her in-laws house along with members of NGO 'SAPARSH' headed by Sunita Sharma and they allegedly attacked on Goel's house where they damaged the house hold articles and escaped with one of the sons while the other one was not present there.
According to Goel's family, both children were studying in a School at Dalhousie and were properly cared by his father.
LoC women appear for police recruitment in Nowshera
JAMMU, Mar (Agencies): Women turned up in large numbers for a police recruitment drive in LoC town of Nowshehra in Rajouri district.
Casting off their veils and defying social typecasts, women of Nowshehra, Sunderbani and Kalakote of Rajouri district turned out in hordes for the recruitment.
The drive was conducted to recruit personnel for the Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) battalion.
Police Inspector Jabeen Akhter said, "We have received an overwhelming response from this area."
"Traditionally, this area has a large representation as far as the police or security forces are concerned and that seems to be having an impact," added Akhter.
The young women candidates appeared all geared up to serve the country just like men.
The recruitment drive was conducted eyeing upon solving the unemployment problem in the area to some extent and to boost women empowerment.
Officials expressed their delight to see women in huge attendance hoping that such a large turnout would help in curbing the militancy in the region.

Headmaster in SVO net
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: A Headmaster of Government High School was nabbed by Vigilance sleuths in separate raids in Rajouri.
State Vigilance Organisation sleuths arrested a Headmaster in Budhal area for accepting illegal gratification worth Rs 20,000.
According to official spokesperson, a case under section 5(2) J&K PC Act Svt. 2006 read with 161 RPC has been registered in Police Station Vigilance Organisation, Jammu under FIR number 6 of 2010 against Satish Chander presently posted as Headmaster Govt High School, Khah number 1 Tehsil Budhal and District Rajouri for demanding and accepting Rs 20,000 from the complainant Nissar Hussain son of Wali Mohammad of Khah Tehsil Budhal and District Rajouri to hush-up an enquiry initiated against the complainant.
The investigation of the case has been taken up.

SBI officers call on Lt Gen Jaiswal
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: Chairman SBI, O P Bhatt and SK Sehgal, Chief General Manager, Chandigarh circle today visited Headquarter Northern Command and called on the Army Commander, Northern Command, Lt Gen BS Jaswal.
SBI had recently launched ‘Defence Salary Package’ for the Defence personnel under which the bank has offered a series of benefits viz. Lifetime Unique Account no with zero minimum balance, two ATM Cards, unlimited free Cheque Books, Free Multi-City Cheque Books, Free RTGS/NEFT, 0.50 percent per annum concession on Home Loans, free issue of drafts to the Army personnel. Bank is providing free Internet and Mobile Banking facility, giving them the convenience of viewing their accounts and printing their statement of accounts, transferring of funds from one account to other, Railway and Air bookings, payment of bills any time from their home or office or even when on the move.
Bhatt emphasized the need to shift from traditional way of Banking to technology initiatives taken by the Bank. For convenience of the Army personnel the Bank is installing Internet Kiosks on the Army locations where they will be able to do all their transfer transactions, railway and air bookings themselves thereby saving their lot of time. The Internet Kiosks will extend the facility of Pass Book printing and Statement of Account printing also.
Under Bank’s scheme of Community Services Banking Bhatt presented a 25 Seater bus to Ex Servicemen’s Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) Polyclinic, Udhampur for use by Ex-Servicemen.

3 day training programme in District Jail Jammu
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: Former Director General (DGP) of Police AC Chatrvedi today inaugurated a 3-day training programme on the theme “Seeing is Learning” organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Prisons department in collaboration with the Bureau of Police Research and Development, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India at District Jail, Jammu.
Based on his practical experience, Chatrvedi averred that different states and even geographical regions have certain traditions and customs which are reflected in management of prisons also. The trainees can benefit from sharing such traditions and good practices so that such practices can be emulated for better results.
Director General of Police, Prisons Dr Ashok Bhan in his keynote address identified areas where J&K Prisons department has acquired expertise. He advised delegates from outside the state to study the security arrangements in prisons, interact with inmates involved in different types of crimes and evaluate various rehabilitation programmes that are being undertaken in the jails. Simultaneously, he advised trainees from J&K state to interact and learn from the experiences of officers from outside.
Mirza Saleern Beig, Superintendent Central Jail, Kot Bhalwal welcomed the guests while Rajni Sehgal, Course Director presented the vote of thanks.

NABARD holds bankers’ meet on SHGs
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) organized a one day “Bankers’ Meet on Self Help Groups” at Rajouri. The meet was chaired by M L Sukhdeve, Chief General Manager, NABARD Regional Office, Jammu and Kashmir and inaugurated by J P Singh, District Development Commissioner, Rajouri.
While inaugurating the meet, District Development Commissioner, J P Singh stated that micro finance has made tremendous strides in India over the years and it has become a household name in view of the multi-pronged benefits reaped from micro finance services by the poor in our country. “Self Help Groups (SHGs) have become common vehicles of development process, converging all development programmes for alleviation of poverty”, Singh said. Singh further impressed upon the need for involvement of government officials, banks, NGOs and other agencies to come forward for formation and linkage of Self Help Groups to provide livelihood to the rural poor, particularly rural women. He stated that district Rajouri has a large number of BPL households in rural areas which need to be brought in the ambit of Self Help Groups by the implementing agencies.
M L Sukhdeve, in his keynote address, said that SHG–Bank Linkage Programme launched by NABARD way back in 1992 envisaging synthesis of formal financial system and informal sector has become a movement throughout the country. “It is considered as the largest micro finance programme in terms of outreach in the world and many other countries are keen to replicate this model. As on 31 March 2009, there are more than 61 lakh saving-linked SHGs and more than 42 lakh credit-linked SHGs and thus, about 8.6 crore poor households are covered under the programme,” revealed Sukhdeve.
Explaining the objective of the meet, Sukhdeve said that Micro finance sector has covered a long journey from micro savings to micro credit and then to micro enterprises and now entered the field of micro insurance, micro remittance, micro pension and micro livelihood.
“This gradual and evolutionary growth process has given a great boost to the rural poor in India to reach reasonable economic, social and cultural empowerment, leading to better life of participating households. Financial institutions in the country have been playing a leading role in the micro finance programme for nearly two decades”, he added.
He also urged banks and Government officials to take benefit of various programme of NABARD such as formation of Farmers’ Clubs, Joint Liability Groups, and Activity groups for promotion of agriculture particularly small and marginal farmers for enhancing livelihood, alleviation of poverty and empowerment of women.

NSF holds one day convention
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: A one day convention of National Secular Forum (NSF) Jammu Unit under the Chairmanship Vikas Sharma, President, NSF was held at Head quarters today to discuss several issues and problems related to students of different colleges in the city.

Vikas Sharma President NSF, in his address stated that in the selection list of lecturers in schools and higher education department preference has been given to candidates belonging to the Kashmir region.
Rakesh Chib, President of Jursea and Sr.Vice-President of NSF, said that the Jammu based MLAs have failed to raise the voice of Jammu Youth in assembly against PSC selections lists of the lecturers in different subjects.
Chib demanded separate PSC for Jammu so that genuine candidates could be selected.
He also appealed to the Chief Minister of the state to hold an enquiry in the selection list of lecturers in all subjects.
Some youth from Jammu city also joined NSF in presence of Vikas Sharma and Rakesh Chib.

Surya for Quality Pipes
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, March 11: Surya Roshni, the largest exporter of G.I. Pipes and Flagship Company of the 2000 crore Surya Group, has announced the launch of its programme to educate millions of consumers across 250 cities in India on the hazards of using spurious pipes. The programme aims to educate dealers and 20000 retailers and consumers on the ill effects and hazards of using spurious steel pipes. The programme also covers highlighting benefits of using good quality GI and ERW pipes.
Elaborating on the issue, Utkarsh Dwivedi, Executive Director, Surya Roshni Ltd. said, "Spurious pipes last for just 2-3 years while pipes manufactured as per prescribed norms last for over 30 years or more. At a cumulative level, consumers end up paying more if they use sub-standard pipes."
Today sale of spurious pipes comprises over 30% of the total steel pipe market sales. These are manufactured by using half the quantity of spurious 'Goomati Zinc' coating, which reduces the life of the product. These poor quality pipes are produced using under gauge patra coils from patra sub standard steel, instead of tested H.R. coils manufactured by SAIL,etc.
Recently Surya Group has undertaken an expansion of 550 crores mainly in Steel Pipes for water, oil and gas and also for lighting which is expected to generate employment for 6000 more people and new jobs.
Surya Steel Pipes Division has also expanded into manufacture of Structural Hollow Section (pipes) for use in a wide range of applications. These Square and Rectangular Hollow steel sections, manufactured under state of the art Japanese technology are used in many major application areas by a large number of customers, such as industries, shopping and commercial malls, furniture manufacture, Airport Authority, Railways, Metro Services, Auto industry, Bus Stands, Industrial Sheds, Towers, Buildings and the National Highway Development Infrastructure Program etc.

Seminar and book release at MIER
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: Smt. Shanti Gupta Centre for Women Studies of MIER College of Education organized a seminar on “Developing Leadership among Women: Issues and Strategies” on 11th March, 2010 to commemorate the International Women’s Day. The chief guest on this occasion was Usha Vohra, the first lady of the State.
Dr. Arun K Gupta, Chairman MIER Group of Institutions in his welcome address said that the Centre for Women Studies at MIER provides a formal platform to study, understand and develop strategies to resolve the pandemic issues concerning women in our society. The Institution holds the distinction of having trained close to 12,000 women as key change agents who are now serving the society in various capacities.
Dr. Poonam Dhawan, Director CWS, University of Jammu said that the main aim of the seminar is to find out what prevents women from assuming leadership positions, and to identify all those issues personal, social and structural which act as barriers in their way to assume leadership roles.
This was followed by the release of the book, Women Achievers of J&K by the Chief Guest. The book has been brought out by Smt. Shanti Gupta Centre for Women Studies and is dedicated to the sacred memory of Smt. Shanti Gupta whose life serves as a role model for women in society.
The function was attended by 13 out of 15 women achievers whose biographies have been included in the book and who received mementoes from Usha Vohra amidst thundering applause from the audience. Eminent people present on the occasion included Shanta Bharti, Dr.Ved Ghai, Prof. Rita Jatender, Dr. Ravinder Madaan, Vijay Kotwal,KAS, Dr. Kumkum Sharma, Dr. Mumtaz Goni, Rani Gargi Blowria, Dr. Poonam Dhawan, Dr. Sunita Zalpuri, Rajni Sehgal- SSP Prisons, Advocate Seema Khajuria and Dr. Meenakshi Kilam.
Dr. Renu Gupta, Director, MIER Group of Institutions, gave an overview of the book. She said that   the present book is a realistic attempt to present short biographies of fifteen women achievers of Jammu and Kashmir State. She disclosed that the publication of this book had generated a lot of interest as more women achievers had contacted the institute to bring out the next edition with more addition. This shows that there is no dearth of talent and leadership among women of J&K State.
In her inaugural address, the first lady of the State, Usha Vohra said that there were more than adequate provisions in the constitution of India to ensure access and equality for the women even though many of these provisions were not realized. She further observed that no obstacle can deter a capable woman to move ahead and assume leadership roles.
The workshop incorporated various technical sessions related to women’s issues followed by lively interaction sessions. The resource persons of different sessions were Dr. Poonam Dhawan, Director CWS, University of Jammu, Dr Renu Gupta Director, Principal MIER College of Education and Mrs. Hafiza Muzaffer, Secretary State Women Commission. Dr. Dhawan deliberated upon “The issues which prevent Women from emerging as Leaders.” Dr Renu Gupta held an interactive session on “Developing Leadership among Women” and “Role of Different Agencies in promoting Leadership among Women” was highlighted by Dr. Hafiza Muzaffer.    Besides Prof. Rita Jatinder, Dr. Sunita Zalpuri and Dr. Garima Gupta exchanged their views with the audience in the valedictory session. A cultural item was also presented by the B.Ed students befitting the occasion which was highly appreciated by the audience.

HC sets aside three years RI in rape case
JAMMU, Mar 11 (JNF): Justice Sunil Hali of J&K High Court Jammu Wing set aside the three years rigorous imprisonment awarded to appellant Sagar Singh who was allegedly involved in a rape case that took place on August 13, 1988.
According to the statement of the prosecutrix she had gone to wash clothes and take a bath at Bavli, when the accused accosted and raped her on the river bank. He also threatened to kill her with a sickle which he was carrying with him at the time, she stated. When she raised an alarm, the accused left the place. On hearing the alarm, one, Balwant Chand, came to the spot after half an hour, as has been revealed by the statement of the prosecutrix. The accused was not present when the witness reached the spot.
Court after examining the witnesses found the appellant guilty of offence u/s 376 RPC and sentenced him to three years rigorous imprisonment. Aggrieved by the order of Trial Court, the appellant filed this appeal.
Justice Sunil Hali observed that the statement of prosecutrix does not indicate that any rape was committed, the only evidence which had come on record is that the accused insulted her, doing ‘what a man does with a woman’. This expression by the prosecutrix is capable of many interpretations. Moreover in the present case there is no medical evidence to support of the version of the prosecutrix.
On the mere statement of the prosecutrix it is not safe to convict the accused u/s 376 RPC. With these observations Court allowed the appeal and set aside the order of sentence and conviction of the accused.

CBI presents challan against engineer caught accepting bribe
JAMMU, Mar 11 (JNF): Central Bureau of Investigation/Anticorruption Bureau today presented a challan in the Court of Special Judge, Anticorruption, Jammu against BB Mittal, then Executive Engineer, Construction, Northern Railway, Jammu who was caught red-handed by the CBI team on July 15, 2009 while he was demanding and accepting Rs 10,000 from the contractor Rajiv Jasrotia, who is also the complainant, for release of the security amount to the tune of Rs 7.5 lacs.
Special Judge Anticorruption Jammu transferred the challan to the Court of Additional District and Sessions Judge Anticorruption Jammu.
In the challan presented against the alleged accused, then Xen Construction, Northern Railway, Jammu, BB Mittal a complaint was lodged by one Rajiv Jasrotia in which he submitted that he was allotted contract for P, Way laying and linking between Vijaypur to Bari-Brahmana and Bari-Brahmana to Jammu for Rs 1.5 crores during the year 2006-2007. He received the payment in a piece meal fashion. It was stated that his surety amount Rs 7.5 lacs is pending, on account of demand of bribe by BB Mittal.
The complainant on July 15, 2009 lodged a written complaint with the CBI/ACB, the case was registered and Additional SP CBI/ACB KL Raina who was entrusted investigation of the case constituted a trap team and laid a trap in the house of BB Mittal catching him red-handed while accepting Rs 10,000 from the complainant. The accused was arrested and then released on bail on July 18, 2009. After completion of the investigation, challan was presented today in the Court.

Court work suffers due to strike call given by BAJ
Jammu, Mar 11 (JNF): Work in the High Court of Jammu Wing and Subordinate Courts Janipur suffered due to a strike call given by the Bar Association. The members of Bar Association today did not appear in the Courts as per the decision of the Bar Association Jammu.
According to Secretary BAJ Rajesh Thappa, the Bar suspended work in protest against anti-Jammu/ anti-women bill recently introduced in the legislative council by a member of PDP. BAJ condemned the bill and said that moves are again afoot to humiliate the daughters of J&K. He further described the bill as nothing but a barbarous assault on women’s rights which will violate the atmosphere of peace in J&K and create communal disharmony by dividing the state on regional and gender basis.

PRC Bill discriminatory, says Puri
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: Balraj Puri, convenor, PUCL J&K State, has strongly opposed the Permanent Resident (Disqualification) Bill introduced in the State assembly which seeks to disqualify women of the state from their status as permanent resident of the state if they marry an outsider.
According to him, the proposed bill violates the universally respected principle of gender equality guaranteed by the constitution of the state. The bill, he adds, does not apply to men who marry outsiders and hence is discriminatory but proposes to withdraw the permanent resident status of a woman, to which she is entitled upon marriage to a citizen of the state, in case of break up of her marriage.
It is ironical that such a bill has been introduced when the centenary of Women’s Day is being celebrated all over the world and when the Rajya Sabha has passed a historic bill for 33% reservation for women in Parliament and state legislatures, he said.

BDO Tangdhar attached, VLW Langate suspended
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: Taking cognizance of the various complaints, the minister for Rural Development, Law and Parliamentary Affairs, Ali Mohammad Sagar ordered the attachments of BDO Tangdhar and suspension of a VLW langate.
People were complaining to the minister against these officials during a rally at Batagund, Langate, in Kupwara district.
Taking a dig at a particular political party, Sagar said that they have always misled the people of the State by floating obnoxious ideas and hollow slogans. He said that the people are fully aware of the developmental works and various pro-people measures undertaken by the National Conference during its tenure.
Referring to the recent employment package, he said that besides announcing stipend for the unemployed youth several packages have also been incorporated in the same for setting up of income generating units by the prospective entrepreneurs. He said that the Government will provide employment to over one lakh unemployed youth during its tenure so that the problem of unemployment can be arrested.

Speaker announces election schedule for members of 3 FCs
KT NEWS SERVICE
Jammu, Mar 11: Speaker, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly, Mohammad Akbar Lone, in terms of Regulation No.2 (1) of the Regulations for conducting elections to the Committees of the Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly has ordered for the conduct of elections of 11 members, each of the three Financial Committees (FC) of the Legislative Assembly.
Accordingly, it has been ordered that the last date for making nominations is March 17 from 10 a.m up to 3 p.m. Similarly, the last date for withdrawal of candidature will be March 2010 up to 5 p.m and the date of poll shall, if necessary, will be March 25, 2010 from 11 a.m to 4 p.m.
The Speaker has appointed Deputy Secretary, Jammu and Kashmir Legislative Assembly as the Returning Officer for the elections..

Road mecadamization phase-II to start in Jammu next week : Saroori
KT NEWS SERVICE
REASI, Mar 11: The R&B Minister, G.M. Saroori today said that the IInd phase of much awaited mecadamization of roads in Jammu division will commence on a massive scale next week, as the mercury has soared up while adequate bitumen dumping has been made in Srinagar.
Addressing a large public meeting at Reasi, the Minister said that a significant achievement have been registered in this regard all over the State and the remaining would be completed at the earliest.
“With massive expansion of road network, particularly in rural and far off areas, Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing considerable transformation, as connectivity has a direct impact on tourism promotion and other economic activities of the State”, asserted the Minister.
The Minister said that the road development has been listed as a priority sector in the State, keeping in view the importance of connectivity in a State which is totally dependent on the surface transport. He said while new roads are being constructed all over the State, the existing urban and semi-urban road are being upgraded on a massive scale. “This is important, as Jammu and Kashmir is essentially a tourist State”, he maintained.
Referring to various reformative steps initiated by the Government in making J&K a model state in the country, the Minister said that every parameter of development has witnessed a discernible change despite two decade turmoil in the State. He said that efforts are underway at every level, political, social and economic, to ameliorate the living conditions of the people. “In fact, we are redoubling our efforts to achieve the set targets”, he declared.
Saroori, elucidated on the physical and financial achievements under R&B sector and said that 100 percent expenditure under State and District sectors and 98 percent under NABARD has been recorded in Reasi district during the current fiscal. He said that various R&B projects are being implemented in this vast district for further streamlining the road network in the area.

HC sets aside three years RI in rape case
JAMMU, Mar 11 (JNF): Justice Sunil Hali of J&K High Court Jammu Wing set aside the three years rigorous imprisonment awarded to appellant Sagar Singh who was allegedly involved in a rape case that took place on August 13, 1988.
According to the statement of the prosecutrix she had gone to wash clothes and take a bath at Bavli, when the accused accosted and raped her on the river bank. He also threatened to kill her with a sickle which he was carrying with him at the time, she stated. When she raised an alarm, the accused left the place. On hearing the alarm, one, Balwant Chand, came to the spot after half an hour, as has been revealed by the statement of the prosecutrix. The accused was not present when the witness reached the spot.
Court after examining the witnesses found the appellant guilty of offence u/s 376 RPC and sentenced him to three years rigorous imprisonment. Aggrieved by the order of Trial Court, the appellant filed this appeal.
Justice Sunil Hali observed that the statement of prosecutrix does not indicate that any rape was committed, the only evidence which had come on record is that the accused insulted her, doing 'what a man does with a woman'. This expression by the prosecutrix is capable of many interpretations. Moreover in the present case there is no medical evidence to support of the version of the prosecutrix.
On the mere statement of the prosecutrix it is not safe to convict the accused u/s 376 RPC. With these observations Court allowed the appeal and set aside the order of sentence and conviction of the accused.

Court work suffers due to strike call given by BAJ
Jammu, Mar 11 (JNF): Work in the High Court of Jammu Wing and Subordinate Courts Janipur suffered due to a strike call given by the Bar Association. The members of Bar Association today did not appear in the Courts as per the decision of the Bar Association Jammu.
According to Secretary BAJ Rajesh Thappa, the Bar suspended work in protest against anti-Jammu/ anti-women bill recently introduced in the legislative council by a member of PDP. BAJ condemned the bill and said that moves are again afoot to humiliate the daughters of J&K. He further described the bill as nothing but a barbarous assault on women's rights which will violate the atmosphere of peace in J&K and create communal disharmony by dividing the state on regional and gender basis.

5 bootleggers held in Katra
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 10: Police claimed to have arrested five bootleggers and recovered 249 pouches of liquor and 2 bottles of whisky from their possession in Katra.
Police said that a special drive was against menace of illicit liquor. Police arrested the bootleggers and recovered 249 pouches and 2 bottles of whisky from their possession.
The arrested persons have been identified as Sudesh Kumar son of Hans Raj of Ram Nagar district Udhampur, Baldev Singh son of Dharam Singh of Bhagta Katra, Darshan Lal son of Panjabu of Matyal Katra, Dil Mohammad son of Abdul Rashid of Kun-Kanyala, Katra and Basant Singh son of Lalu Singh of Fatehpur Tehsil Batyagarh (MP).
Reports said that police while checking near Railway Track Katra intercepted one person identified Basant Singh for checking and recovered two bottles of whisky from his possession. Similarly, they established a special naka at Matyal Katra and during personal checking of the two persons Darshan Lal and Dil Mohammad 150 pouches were recovered from their possession.
Moreover, Katra police also seized 68 pouches from Baldev Singh at Bhagta Katra and 31 pouches from Sudesh Kumar at Kun-Darorian.
All the accused persons have been arrested under section 48-A Excise Act and cases to this effect stands registered at Police Station Katra.

3 bovine smugglers held
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 10: Police claimed to have arrested three bovine smugglers and seized 12 bovine animals from a truck at Ramban.
Reports said that cops of Police Station Chanderkot established a naka at Mai Gate and intercepted a truck bearing registration number JK02V-6311 this evening. During search of the vehicle twelve bovine were seized from the vehicle.
The accused were identified as Ishtiyaq Ahmed son of Mohammad Riyaz of Kherpura of district Anantnag, Amjad son of Mohammad Khurshid and Rafaqat Ali son of Mohammad Ibrahim both residents of Kukarnag of district Anantnag presently residing at Bathindi Jammu.
All accused were booked under section 188 RPC.
A case to this effect has been registered at Police Station Chanderkot.

Housewife sustains burns
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 10: A young housewife sustained serious burns at her residence in Goladh area of Mendhar in Poonch district today.
The victim has been identified as Zahida Kousar, wife of Mohammad Maroof of Goladh.
Police said that her husband is in Saudi Arabia and she was living in her house along with her six months old daughter. She went to kitchen at 10.30 AM and soon as she lit the match stick, due to leakage of LPG cylinder, it caught fire.
The woman was also trapped in the fire and she sustained 100 percent burns. The victim was shifted to the Sub District Hospital (SDH) Mendhar from where she was referred to the Government Medical College (GMC) hospital for advanced treatment.

PRC bill anti women, unconstitutional: NCP
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, MAR 11: Former Minister of NCP, Thakur Randhir Singh has opposed the permanent resident certificate disqualification bill being introduced in the legislative council of the state.
Terming the bill as anti-women and unconstitutional, Randhir said that it is surprising to note that the bill has not been opposed by the Congress and NC. He added that he would take the issue with the NCP high command. NCP chief said that the party will do its best in safeguarding the interest of state at all forums.

Training programme on pest management at SKUAST
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, MAR 11: Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology organised a five day training programme on "Recent advances in integrated diseases management for sustainable agriculture" in which officers of State agriculture department, command area development and horticulture department participated.
Director extension education, Dr. K.S. Rissam stressed upon the need for enhancing the production and productivity in all the major crops of the area.
Head of division of Plant Pathology, Prof. V.K Razdan, highlighted the importance of integrated pest management in order to reduce the total dependence on chemical pesticides.
Razdan emphasized the need for incorporating different management measures like biological control, resistance and physical methods to reduce the losses caused by diseases and pests.

Mazdoor Conference urges FM to fulfill demands
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: President of the National Mazdoor Conference Subhash Shastri has urged the Finance Minister, A.R. Rather, to fulfill the demands of employees and daily wagers in the state's budget be presented in the legislature.
Shastri focused the attention of the finance minister on the long pending demands of employees including payment of 6th pay commission arrears; raising HRA from fifteen percent to twenty percent.
Subhash Shastri expected that the plight of the workers will be taken into account and the finance minister will pay attention to their demands.

BJP opposes proposed electric tariff hike
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar11: "Proposed electric tariff hike will directly influence inflation and will become a serious cause of concern in the state, the BJP is strongly against it and will fight if the proposed tariff hike is implemented," said Rajesh Gupta, President, BJP's Industry, Trade and Tourism Wing.
While addressing media persons here today, Gupta stated that they had submitted their objections to state electricity regulatory commission and requested it not to recommend electric tariff hike in either the industrial, commercial or domestic sector. He further added that the Industrial, Trade and Tourism sectors in the state need continuous support from the government for their survival and development and the proposed hike will badly affect the industry.
He further added that transmission losses faced by the PDD department will only worsen due to non-payment of bills by certain sections of people and various other department officials and the department was silent over the details.
He added that this attempt may further burden honest paying consumers. BJP state unit maintained that they will fight tooth and nail to prevent the state government from implementing electric tariff hikes.

Two JJSF members begin hunger strike
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar11: On the 35th consecutive day of protest launched by Jammu Joint Students' Federation (JJSF) for the demand of concession in syllabus, two activists of JJSF went on a 'fast unto death' (Hunger Strike) in the city at Shaheedi Sthal, Jammu. The students on hunger strike, namely Mohd. Arif and Yogesh Talwar, had been fasting since March 10 for gaining concession in syllabus. Students of various degree colleges also continued their protest under the banner of JJSF.
Pushvinder Singh, State President, JJSF said that the Federation started the agitation on February 5. He said that at least 180 lectures are required as per UGC guidelines but this year only 40-45 lectures were held during the period, making it impossible for students to complete the syllabus. The JU should look after the matter and should not play with the future of students, he said. Singh appealed to all the MLAs belonging to Jammu Region to put the students' voice in the assembly.
Leaders of different students organisations including Dr. Vimal Singh Manhas (State President, AISF) and Ashwani Parihar (Vice President, AISF), Koushal Kumar (Council Member AISF) and some PSA leaders namely Rahul Sharma (President, PSA) and Rohit (Activist, PSA) also give support to JJSF fighting for their agitation demanding concession in syllabus for the 3-year Degree Courses. Partap Singh Jamwal (State Vice President, JJSF) welcomed the support of these student organisations for their genuine cause.

BJP opposes PRC Disqualification Bill
Demands passing of Women's Reservation Bill in State Legislature
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: Opposing the bill introduced in J&K Legislative Council by People's Democratic Party (PDP) pertaining to Disqualification of Permanent Residence Status in case a female resident from J&K marries a non-resident of the state, Pradesh BJP today demanded Women's Reservation Bill to be passed in J&K Legislature on the pattern of bill passed in Rajya Sabha.
"We express our total disagreement with the private members bill introduced in Legislative Council by PDP as it is against the spirit of the State Constitution and its preamble, which guarantees equal rights and opportunities to the women", BJP senior leaders told reporters here.
Criticising the coalition Government headed by Omar Abdullah for remaining silent on this bill, the leader of BJP legislature party Chaman Lal Gupta said "both National Conference and Congress should have not allowed the introduction of the bill in initial stage".
The matter has been settled by the judiciary on the issue and there is no occasion to reopen the issue, he said and condemned the role of Congress for not rejecting the bill at its inception stage.
Gupta and former State President and Jammu East MLA Ashok Khajuria, said that they fully support the bill granting reservation to the women.
BJP will fully cooperate with the state government over the issue of giving reservation to women they said, adding that they urge the government to legislate a similar Act in the State Legislature.
Khajuria warned that the party will not allow the smooth proceedings of the assembly if the PDP bill introduced in the council is allowed for consideration.
This issue will also be raised in the parliament by BJP soon, Gupta said in reply to a question.
Both BJP leaders said that delimitation of assembly constituencies is a core issue for the party and they will continue to fight for justice for Jammu division which has only 37 assembly segments despite a larger area and more population as against Kashmir valley which has 46 assembly segments with lesser population and lesser area.

Youth hangs himself
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: Mystery shrouds death of youth who was found hanging with a tree near his residence.
Police said that Rash Paul, 22, son of Hans Raj resident of Ka Kathad in Akhnoor was found hanging with a tree near his house at 9:30 am. The deceased was working as porter at Jammu Railway Station.
The Body was shifted to Sub-District Hospital Akhnoor where after post mortem the body was handed over to the family members for last rites.
A case under section 174 CrPc was registered in Police Station Akhnoor.
Woman killed in accident
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: An unidentified woman was killed in an accident at Ratnuchak.
Police said that 30 years old unidentified woman was hit by an unknown vehicle in Ratnuchak near Greater Kailash. She was died on spot and with the help of locals police shifted the body to GMC for postmortem and identification.
A case has been registered in Police Station Gangyal and the search of unidentified vehicle was on as the last report came in.
Corruption case
Challan produced against AEE Railways
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: After completion of investigations in corruption case, Central Bureau Investigation (CBI) today produced a challan against an Assistant Executive Engineer (AEE) of Northern Railways in the court of additional special judge.
As per the chargesheet, Rajiv Jasrotia, a railway contractor of Hiranagar (Kathua), got two contracts worth Rs 1.5 crores for laying pathway between Jammu and Vijaypur in 2006. He completed the work in 2007.
When he approached the Northern Railways' AEE B B Mittal to get the security amount of Rs 7 lakh released, he allegedly demanded a bribe of Rs 10,000 from him. Despite repeated visits to him, Mittal did not release the security Jasrotia approached CBI and lodged a written complaint against him.
Acting on the complaint, CBI sleuths laid a trap and caught Mittal red-handed while accepting Rs 10,000 as bribe from Jasrotia. A case FIR number 8 of 2009 was then registered against Mittal under section 161 of RPC and section 5(1)(d) of Prevention of Corruption Act.
After the completion of investigation in the case by Inspector Bhagwan Dass Dandia, CBI today presented challan in the court of additional special judge, anti-corruption, here, through senior public prosecutor, CBI, S K Bhat.

PR Bill: BJP, BAJ sing anti-Jammu song again!

KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: Controversial Permanent Residents’ (Disqualification) bill, moved by PDP MLC Murtaza Khan in the Legislative Council on the International Women’s Day on Monday, has initiated a new repulsive debate among its proponents and the opponents in the state. The debate is touching its low by turning the women into a commodity instead of an independent entity.
Infusing a religious and regional angle to the entire controversy, the opponents are describing the bill as “anti-Jammu,” while the proponents claim that it would “save the identity of women of the state.”
Among the opponents, on the anticipated lines Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Bar Association Jammu (BAJ) took the lead. Former state BJP president Ashok Khajuria while talking to KTNS maintained, “The bill is anti-Jammu. So we will oppose it tooth and nail.”
Lawyers in Jammu Thursday observed a strike and held a protest over the introduction of a private member’s bill that seeks to annul permanent resident rights of Kashmiri women who marry outside the state.
Lawyers of the Jammu Bar Association boycotted court work and staged a sit-in and also held a demonstration denouncing the Permanent Residents (Disqualification) Bill. They said that bill is “discriminatory against women of state, particularly of Jammu region”.
“It is anti-Jammu, as most Jammu girls marry outside of the state with persons who are non-state subjects (not permanent residents of Jammu and Kashmir),” Sunil Sethi, Jammu Bar Association president, told newspersons here Thursday afternoon. The bill had threatened the then ruling coalition of Congress-Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) when it was first introduced in the assembly in 2004.
National Conference - then in opposition - supported the legislation while the national parties, including the Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), opposed it. The bill deprives women of the right to own and inherit immovable property, get government jobs and other privileges if they marry non-state subjects.
It was introduced by PDP legislator Murtaza Khan in the state legislative council March 8, and the government accepted it at the introduction level. The PDP plans to introduce the bill in the state legislative assembly. PDP’s argument in favour of the bill is it would save the identity of the women of the state.
It fears that if women marrying non-state subjects are entitled to retain their citizenship rights, the state’s special status would be undermined. Jammu and Kashmir enjoys special status under Article 370 of the Indian constitution. Only residents of the state can acquire immovable property, study in professional institutions and get government jobs.
Sunil Sethi said there appeared to be “a big conspiracy”. “This is evident in the way political parties are maintaining a silence over the issue. We are not hearing any voices of opposition to the bill.” Congress leaders, when approached, refused to make any comment.
Meanwhile, criticizing the coalition government headed by Omar Abdullah for remaining silent on this bill, leader of BJP legislature party Chaman Lal Gupta and former State President and Jammu East MLA Ashok Khajuria said that both National Conference and Congress should have not allowed the introduction of the bill in initial stage.
BJP leaders while talking to reporters in Jammu, opposed the bill introduced in J&K Legislative Council by People’s Democratic Party (PDP. “We express our total disagreement with private members bill introduced in Legislative Council by PDP Legislature as it is against the spirit of state constitution and its preamble, which guarantees equal rights and opportunities to the women”, leaders add.
They said that matter has been settled by the court and there is no reason to reopen the issue, he said and condemned role of Congress for not rejecting the bill at its inception. They also demanded Women Reservation Bill to be passed in J&K Legislature on the pattern in which it has been passed in Rajya Sabha. Leaders said that they would fully support the bill granting reservation to the women.
Khajuria, warned that the party will not allow the smooth proceedings of the assembly if the PDP’s bill introduced in council is allowed for consideration. This issue will also be raised in the assembly by BJP soon, Gupta said in reply to a question.

Governor for taking Red Cross movement to Ladakh
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: The Governor, N N. Vohra, has called for giving impetus to the Red Cross movement by bringing Ladakh and remote areas of Kashmir and Jammu regions under the ambit of its activities to benefit distressed people in the hour of need.
The Governor was addressing after giving away awards to officers, individuals and organizations for their appreciable support in organizing the recently held 2-day Red Cross Mela-cum-Raffle Draw at a Prize Distribution Function at Raj Bhavan, here last evening.
Appreciating the stupendous role being played by the Red Cross Society by providing timely aid to the injured, ill and others in distress, the Governor expressed satisfaction that the collections made to the Red Cross corpus by the well-minded citizens, philanthropists and organizations are growing year after year which demonstrate the growth of this organization in the State.
Referring to the Red Cross Melas-cum-Raffle Draws held in 2009 and 2010, the Governor said that both these events were well organized with a large participation and a host of activities in the festive environment. He observed that the Red Cross movement has been making good progress, which is an indicator of public spirit of cooperation to achieve the objective of societal good. He said it is very encouraging that all sections of the society are coming forward to contribute to this noble cause.

JK-Himachal to work in tandem for improving transport system
KT NEWS SERVICE
JAMMU, Mar 11: Minister for Transport and Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution (CA&PD), Qamar Ali Akhoon during his visit to Simla met the Transport Minister of Himachal Pradesh (HP), Th. Mohinder Singh and discussed the pattern and procedure adopted by the HP Government for reviving of the HPSRTC.
The ministers discussed various issues include; organizational structure and functions; power and duties of officers; procedures and norms followed in the Corporation; Board, Committees and other bodies; budget allocation/grant in-aid and capital contribution; financial management; pension,GPF; stores and material management; marketing management; and strategies; computerization; operation on un-economical routes; fare structure, road taxes; staff norms; free concessional facilities (viz students and employees of Government,PSU, Policy personals, freedom fighter, ex and sitting MP,MLA's, HANDICAPPED War widow, press personnel, orphan students, cancer patients, national awardee teachers, free traveling to women in HRTC busses); buses lying at Jasoor workshop and rescheduling of Simla-Jammu service operated by the JKSRTC.
Both the Ministers agreed to work together to boost transport system in their hilly States and to cooperate for upliftment of their respective RTCs.

12 lakh trees to be planted under Social Forestry Programme: Mian Altaf
KT NEWS SERVICE
Jammu, Mar 11: Emphasizing for plantation of trees for maintaining a balance between biotic community and ablotic environment by involving common masses, the Minister for Forest, Environment and Ecology, Mian Altaf Ahmed today said that 12 lakh trees will be planted during current year by the Social Forestry Department.
The Minister reiterated that a comprehensive and holistic strategy is being adopted for conservation of environment.
Mian Altaf was speaking at a cheque distribution function organized by the Social Forestry Department at Sidhara. The Minister distributed Rs.4.89 lakh among 7 Village Forest Committees (VFC) including, VFC Rehal, Swanjan Champa Van, Gandu Chak, Gharkhal, Suhogpur, Kirpalpur and Apnavan, on the occasion. The amount distributed among the committees was earned as revenue through the auction of dead and fallen material.
The Minister urged the Chairman of VFCs to utilize this revenue for creation of assets for the community in their respective villages.
Stressing for mass awareness among the people about the prospects of tree plantation, the Minister enjoined upon the officers of the department to organize awareness camps and plant tree saplings after testing the soil and ensuring the favourable conditions for the growth of these trees.

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