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Comedian Kapil turns producer___ Actor-comedian Kapil Sharma marks his debut as a producer with TV show Comedy Nights With Kapil. Adding to the madness, he will be seen donning multiple avatars, that of an actor, scriptwriter and producer in his production debut. Known for his strong comic timing as well as his ability to find humour in any situation, he will present a distinctive take on everyday life in a fresh way. The show is likely to hit the small screen in June on Colors. At the same time, the 32-year-old will be seen exhibiting his dancing skills on Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 6, which is also going on air next month.
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Major reshuffling in Haryana: 20 IPS, 64 HPS officers transferred

Chandigarh, May 3 (babushahi.com bureau): Haryana Government has issued the posting and transfers order of 20 IPS and 67 HPS officers with immediate e....
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Chandigarh, May 3 (babushahi.com bureau): Haryana Government has issued the posting and transfers order of 20 IPS and 67 HPS officers with immediate effect.

Sudhir Chaudhary, IGP/RTC Bhondsi has been posted as IG/HAP, Madhuban against a vacant post whereas Navdeep Singh Virk, IG/IRB Bhondsi has been given the additional charge of IG/RTC, Bhondsi. Charu Bali awaiting posting orders has been posted as DIG Administration, Police Headquarters against a vacant post. Mamta Singh, who was also awaiting her posting orders, has been appointed as DIG/RTC, Bhondsi.

Mata Ravi Kiran, DIG State Vigilance Bureau has been given the additional charge of DIG Lokayukta. Bharti Arora, SP/SCB, Gurgaon has been posted as DCP Traffic, Gurgaon against a vacant post. Saurabh Singh, SP/CID has been posted as SP Sirsa in place of Dr. Rajshree Singh who goes as Commandant 3rd Battalion, HAP, Hisar in place of Hamid Akhtar, who has been posted as commandant 1st Battalion, HAP and SP Telecom in addition.

Hardeep Singh Doon, SP/ SCB, Panchkula has been posted as SP/CID. Rajinder Kumar, Commandant 2nd battalion HAP has been posted as SP, HVPNL. Sibash Kabiraj, SP, Commando has been posted as SP, Yamunanagar in place of Mitesh Jain, who has been posted as SP, Bhiwani. Y. Puran Kumar, SP, Railways has been posted as SP, Kurukshetra in place of Mr. Rakesh Kumar Arya, who goes as SP, Palwal.

Shashank Anand, SP Karnal has been posted as SP Railways whereas Simardeep Singh, SP, Bhiwani has been posted as SP, Narnaul in place of Abhishek Garg, who has been posted as SP, Karnal.

Ashok Kumar, DCP Urban, Ambala has been posted as SP Commando Newal with additional charge of AIG, Traffic. Ram Kumar, Commandant 1st Battalion, HAP has been posted as SP, HAP, Madhuban against a vacant post.



Among the three Haryana Police Services (HPS) officers, Jagat Singh Hooda, SP Palwal has been posted as DCP, Ballabgarh against a vacant post. Vinod Kaushik, DCP, Headquarters, Faridabad has been posted as DCP, Urban Ambala whereas Mr. Krishan Murari, DCP, Traffic, Faridabad has been posted as Commandant 2nd Battalion, HAP.

Vinod Kumar, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), Panchkula City has been posted as Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), Headquarters Rewari. Ms Purnima Singh would join as ACP, Panchkula City on completion of training vice Vinod Kumar. Surinder Singh Bhoria, DSP, Headquarters Karnal has been posted as DSP, Headquarters Kaithal vice Taken Raj.
Taken Raj, DSP, Headquarters Kaithal goes as DSP Guhla against a vacant post. Sunil Kumar Alaria would join as DSP, City Karnal on completion of training vice Joginder Singh Rathee.
Joginder Singh Rathee, DSP, City Karnal goes as DSP, Headquarters Karnal vice Surinder Singh Bhoria. Ashish Chowdhary would join as DSP, Headquarters Mewat on completion of training against vacancy. Amit Bhatia would join as DSP, Headquarters Bhiwani on completion of training against vacancy.
Adarshdeep Singh would join as DSP, Headquarters Jind on completion of training. Noopur Bishnoi would join as DSP, Kurukshetra on completion of training. Karan Goyal would join as DSP, City Rohtak on completion of training vice Virender Singh.


Pushpa and Anil Kumar would join as DSPs, Rohtak on completion of training. Dharna Yadav would join as DSP, City Hisar on completion of training. Tanya Singh would join as DSP, Panipat on completion of training. Ajit Singh would join as DSP, Kharkhoda on completion of training. Usha Devi would join as ACP,Detective Gurgaon on completion of training. Bharti Dabas would join as DSP, Karnal on completion of training. Virender Singh would join as DSP, Rewari on completion of training vice Anoop Singh. Sidharth Dhanda and Amit Dahiya would join as DSPs, Hisar on completion of training.
Vijender Singh, DSP, Jagadhari goes as DSP, Bilaspur against vacancy. Phool Kumar, DSP, Headquarters Yamunanagar goes as DSP, Hathin against vacancy. Sultan Singh, DSP, Headquarters Sirsa has been posted as DSP, Vigilance, Haryana Vidyut Prasaran Nigam Limited (HVPNL). Rajinder Singh Sheoran, DSP Barwala has been posted DSP, CID against vacancy. Dalbir Singh Yadav, DSP, CID goes as DSP, City Kaithal. Bali Singh, DSP, 4th Indian Reserve Battalion (IRB) has been posted as DSP, Samalkha vice Tahir Hussain.
Tahir Hussain, DSP, Samalkha has been posted as DSP, Narwana vice Rameshwar Lamba. Rameshwar Lamba, DSP, Narwana goes as ACP, Headquarters Faridabad. Virender Singh, DSP, City Rohtak goes as DSP, Safidon. Jagdish Kumar, DSP, 1st IRB has been posted as DSP, Haryana Human Rights Commission against vacancy. Dheeraj Setia, ACP, Panchkula goes as DSP, 1st IRB against vacancy. Virender Singh, ACP, Headquarters Panchkula goes as DSP, CID against vacancy. Rajesh Kumar, DSP, Karnal goes as DSP, Jagadhari and his earlier transfer orders as DSP, Bilaspur are hereby cancelled.


Baljinder Singh, ACP, Ambala Cantt. has been posted as DSP, Indri against vacancy. Kushal Pal Singh, ACP, Barara has been posted as ACP, Kalka vice Krishan Kumar. Raj Kumar Walia, ACP, Headquarters Ambala has been posted as DSP, Headquarters GRP, Ambala Cantt. against vacancy. Ravinder Kumar, DSP, Ellenabad goes as DSP, 4th IRB Manesar against vacancy. Rahul Dev, DSP, RTC Bhondsi goes as ACP, Ambala Cantt. vice Baljinder Singh.
Ms Pooja Dabla would join as DSP, Sonepat on completion of training. Ms Pankhuri Kumar would join as ACP, Gurgaon on completion of training. Hitesh Yadav would join as ACP, Manesar on completion of training. Sandeep Kumar would join as ACP, Mujesar, Faridabad on completion of training. Poonam would join as ACP, Central Faridabad on completion of training.
Ram Chander Rathee, DSP, Beri has been posted as ACP, NIT Faridabad. Jitender Gahlawat would join as DSP, Panipat on completion of training. Dinesh Kumar, ACP, Tigaon, Faridabad goes as ACP, Ballabgarh. Suresh Kumar Hooda, DSP, Loharu goes as ACP, Serai Faridabad. Mohinder Kumar Sethi, ACP, Crime Faridabad has been posted as ACP, Barara vice Kushal Pal Singh.


Ramesh Pal, ACP, NIT Faridabad has been posted as DSP, PTC Sunaria against vacancy. Darshan Lal, ACP, Sarai goes as DSP, Bhiwani. Badan Singh, ACP, City Ballabgarh has been posted as DSP, City Palwal. Dalbir Singh, ACP, Mujesar goes as DSP, Headquarters Sirsa vice Sultan Singh. Vijay Partap, ACP, Faridabad has been posted DSP, 3rd IRB Sunaria. Abhey Singh, DSP, 3rd IRB Sunaria goes as DSP, Ellenabad vice Ravinder Kumar. Balbir Singh, DSP, Sonepat has been posted as DSP, Beri vice Jitender Gahlawat.


Rajinder Kumar, DSP, Ganaur has been posted as DSP, Loharu vice Suresh Kumar Hooda. Mukesh Kumar, DSP, Detective Hisar goes as DSP, Headquarters Sonepat. Atma Ram, ACP, Traffic Faridabad has been posted as DSP, State Crime Branch. Nirmal Singh, DSP, City Kurukshetra has been posted as DSP, Headquarters Kurukshetra against vacancy. Anoop Singh, DSP, Rewari goes as DSP, HVPNL. Mamta Kharab, ACP, Gurgaon goes as ACP, Traffic Gurgaon. Krishan Kumar, ACP, Kalka has been posted as ACP, Headquarters Panchkula vice Virender Singh. Shamsher Singh, DSP, Headquarters, Fatehabad has been posted as DSP, City Jhajjar.



3 IAS and 2 PCS including DC Fatehgarh Sahib shifted (PDF attached)

Arun Sekhri is new DC of Fatehgarh Sahib

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, May 3 : Punjab Govt today shifts 3 IAS and 2 pcs officer....
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OPN PDF to read
Arun Sekhri is new DC of Fatehgarh Sahib

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, May 3 : Punjab Govt today shifts 3 IAS and 2 pcs officers. According to ordres Arun Sekhri is appointed as new Deputy Commissioner of Fatehgarah Sahib. full detail of transfers is attached in PDF



Haryana promotes HEEB PRO as Deputy Director


Chandigarh, May 3 (babushahi.com bureau): Meenakshi, Public Relations Officer (PRO), of Haryana School Education Board, Bhiwani has been promo....
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Chandigarh, May 3 (babushahi.com bureau): Meenakshi, Public Relations Officer (PRO), of Haryana School Education Board, Bhiwani has been promoted as Deputy Director (Public Relations)HSEB.



Phillaur orders probe into Patiala inmate’s death

Health department to ensure quality medicines


Chandigarh May 3 (babushahi.com bureau): Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Jail Minister Punjab ....
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Health department to ensure quality medicines


Chandigarh May 3 (babushahi.com bureau): Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Jail Minister Punjab has asked the Principal Secretary Home to conduct a thorough probe into the sudden death of an under trial who was lodged in Patiala Jail and submit the report within a week.


Expressing concern over the attack on a Pakistani prisoner in Jammu Jail, the Minister said that the security of all the 57 Pakistani prisoners languishing in Punjab jails have been beefed up and as a precautionary measure they are not being allowed to move out their barracks. Phillaur also said that 28 Pakistani prisoners in Amritsar out of the total 38 already completed their terms have been lodged in a transit camp within the Jail.


Terming the frequent deaths of prisoners and recent incidents of violence in the jail premises as unfortunate and said that the Punjab government has seized of the matter and was taking some corrective measures in this regard. He also said directed the senior officers of the department to immediately resolve all the cases of various enquiries lying pending with the department at the earliest. Taking serious note of the substandard adulterated medicines being used in the jails, the Minister said that the Health department has also been asked to ensure the adequate and good quantity medicines required for the prisoners in all the Jails of Punjab.



Journalist Salil Khanna bereaved, father expires


Chandigarh May 3 (babushahi.com bureau) Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda has expressed shock and grief over the sad demise of Rul....
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Chandigarh May 3 (babushahi.com bureau) Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda has expressed shock and grief over the sad demise of Ruldu Ram Khanna, father of Salil Khanna, Bureau Chief of New 24 Channel, who passed away yesterday evening. He was 65.
In a condolence message issued here today,

Hooda described the death of Ruldu Ram as unfortunate.

Hood conveyed his heartfelt condolences to the members of the bereaved family and prayed that the departed soul might rest in peace.
Minister of State for Information, Public Relations and Cultural Affairs Department Pt. Shiv Charan Lal Sharma, Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Dr. K.K. Khandelwal, Director General, Information, Public Relations and Cultural Affairs Department Sudhir Rajpal and Additional Media Advisors to Chief Minister Sunil Parti and Kewal Dhingra has also condoled the death of Ruldu Ram.


Additional Media Advisors to Chief Minister Sunil Parti laid wreath on the mortal remains of the departed soul on behalf of Haryana Chief Minister. The last rites were performed today afternoon at Chandigarh.




Pak citizen Nujhat told to go back to Pakistan after 30 years



By HARISH DIDO



New Delhi, May 3 : On the one hand, Sarbjit Singh, a victim of mistaken identity, was not ....
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By HARISH DIDO



New Delhi, May 3 : On the one hand, Sarbjit Singh, a victim of mistaken identity, was not sent back to India and he died in the Jinnah Hospital under custody of jail authorities on brutal attack by his co-inmates, whose dead body has now been handed over to India whereas the Tees Hazari Cour in New Delhi has ordered for sending Nujhat 55-year-old to Pakistan for illegally staying in India who had come to India about 30 years back.



After the formal ‘Nikah’, Nujhat, Pakistani citizen, who had came to India about 30 years back, now 55 year-old ‘Dadi and Nani’ has become ‘strange’ for India, who has almost spent half of her life in this country.



Narender Kumr, Additional Sessions Judge, Tees Hazari Court keeping in tact the orders of the lower court has ordered to go back to Pakistan and before that she has to under six days in Jail besides paying fine of Rs.2000. In fact, the orders have been issued for not completing the formalities of her stay in India and Nujhat, has been charged for illegally staying in India. The court has ordered the Delhi Government to complete the formalities for sending her back to Pakistan.

On hearing the decision of the Court, Nujhat and her husband Gulfam started weeping in the Court room and Nujhat was sent to jail by arresting her in the court premises.



Nujhat, a resident of New Karachi in Pakistan was married to Gulfam on 2 September 1983 a resident of Turkman Gate. After the formal, Nikah, she came Delhi and now blessed with two sons 27 and 25 years old and daughter 22 years old. After the Nikha, Nujhat was sanctioned temporary visa which was extended upto March 16, 1994 whereas the Passport was valid up to September 28, 1993, which created a problem for over stay in India. However, the Pakistan government cancelled the Passport on the plea that she should now apply for Indian citizenship. Nujhat preferred to stay with anonymity to get rid of legal complications and she has to price for committing a blunder of mistake.



Rahul Gandhi and Bajwa paid tributes to Sarabjeet Singh, offers condolences to family

By Gagandeep Sohal

Bhikhiwind (Amritsar), May 3 : Mr.Rahul Gandhi AICC General Secretary accompanied by Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa President Pu....
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By Gagandeep Sohal

Bhikhiwind (Amritsar), May 3 : Mr.Rahul Gandhi AICC General Secretary accompanied by Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa President Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) today paid tributes to Mr. Sarabjeet Singh who succumbed to a brutal attack in Pakistan jail here at his cremation in native village.



Mr.Rahul Gandhi stayed with the aggrieved family for about half an hour and offered condolences to Dalbir Kaur sister of Sarabjeet Singh. He assured full support to the family.



Mr.Bajwa said that martyrdom of Mr. Sarabjeet Singh would not go waste. He said that demise of Sarabjeet Singh had jolted the whole nation. He consoled the sister, wife and daughters of Sarabjeet Singh. He said that Pakistan had violated human rights.



Others who attended the last rites of Mr.Sarabjeet Singh included Gulchain Singh Charak member working committee AICC, Harish Chaudhary secretary in charge Punjab, Union minister of state for external affairs Mrs.Preneet Kaur, Mr.Vijayinder Singla MP, O.P.Soni vice president PPCC and Raj Kumar Verka vice chairman SC commission.

Mr.Bajwa a statement also appealed to SAD-BJP government not to politicize the sacrifice of Mr. Sarabjeet Singh. PPCC thanked the Congress high command and UPA government for extending support to the family of Mr.Sarabjeet Singh and for making continues efforts to secure his release. Mrs. Dalbir Kaur sister of Mr.Sarabjeet Singh was in constant touch with the UPA government and she was facilitated at every step in her efforts to seek release of her brother.

PPCC president said UPA government was seeking release of Mr. Sarabjeet Singh on humanitarian grounds. Prime Minister Dr.Manmohan Singh was assured by the former President Mr. Pervez Musharraf during their meeting in New York in 2005, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly that he would look at the question of clemency to Sarabjeet Singh in a humanitarian way. The matter was also taken up with the Pakistan President during his visit to India in March 2008.

Mr.Bajwa said that High Commission of India, Islamabad also assisted his sister Smt. Dalbir Kaur, his wife and two daughters during their visit to Pakistan from April 23-29, 2008. On April 24, 2008, the Govt. of Pakistan allowed the family to meet Sarabjeet Singh in Kot Lakhpat Jail, Lahore. His sister again visited Pakistan in June 2011, the High Commission interceded with the Pakistan authorities for arranging her meeting with Sarabjeet Singh in the jail.

He further said that following the reports about alleged poisoning and mental torture of Sarabjeet Singh by officials in Kot Lakhpat Jail, the High Commission of India, Islamabad again requested the Government of Pakistan for special consular access for Mr. Sarabjeet Singh.

Mr.Bajwa said that on April 26 Indian Mission started receiving reports of an attack on Sarabjeet Singh in Kot Lakhpat Jail (Lahore). "Our Mission immediately contacted the Pakistan MoFA and demanded immediate consular access. The two-man consular team has remained stationed in Lahore since April 26", he added.

Mr.Bajwa said that Pakistan initially agreed to grant only two family members visas. On intervention by External affairs ministry, Pakistani high commission in New Delhi was finally prevailed upon to grant visas to all 4 members of the family who had expressed desire to travel to Pakistan.

Mr.Bajwa said that it was unfortunate that Mr.Sarabjeet Singh was attacked when center government was expecting his release from Pakistan jail. He said that lawyer of Mr.Sarabjeet Singh reportedly filed another mercy petition with President of Pakistan on May 29, 2012. The decision of the President of Pakistan on these petitions was still pending.



Maluka suspends 3 school lecturer for submitting wrong information

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, May 3: Taking a serious note of wrong information submitted regarding the strength of students, the Punjab ....
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By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, May 3: Taking a serious note of wrong information submitted regarding the strength of students, the Punjab Education Minister Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka today directed the concerned authorities to suspend three school Lecturer namely Harjit Singh, Lecturer Economics & Officiating Principal, Naresh Kumar, lecturer Mathematics and Mrs. Neelam, Lecturer Biology of Government Senior Secondary School, Lehri (Bathinda) with immediate effect. These lecturers are found guilty of submitting wrong information during a physical verification.


Disclosing this here today, the Education Minister said that in a bid to keep intact their posts, these lecturers showed strength of 22 students (non-medical and medical) while during inquiry the strength of students was found only five. Mr. Maluka informed that the State Education Department has initiated a rationalization process in all the schools of the state to ensure required teacher taught ratio. He said that the state government was committed to provide quality education to all the students studying in government schools and the rationalization process was an effort to streamline the education infrastructure.



The Education Minister cautioned all the officers/teachers/officials of education department that against submitting wrong information regarding the strength of students in their respective education institutions. He categorically said that anyone found guilty of submitting wrong information would have to face the strict action.



One arrested for appearing in court in traffic challan case of someone else

By Harish Dido

Ferozepur : As per the crime report released SSP, Ferozepur, on the basis of complaint from Hira Singh, Chief Judicial M....
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By Harish Dido

Ferozepur : As per the crime report released SSP, Ferozepur, on the basis of complaint from Hira Singh, Chief Judicial Magistrate, Ferozepur, Balwant Singh son of Dalip Singh resident of village Dhandian falling under Zira police station, District Ferozepur was arrested under sections 419 IPC after registration of case at Ferozeur Cantt police station.


As per the information provided, Lakhbir Singh was challaned by the traffic police and on May 2, 2013, Balwant Singh appeared in his place and he was caught while wrongly signing with his original identity. On investigation, it was found that Balwant Singh had appeared in the court on behalf of Jasbir Singh.



Sarabjit cremated with full state honors at Bhikhiwind.

Sarabjit cremated with full state honors at Bhikhiwind.

Badal,Rahul Gandhi,Sukhbir, Preneet, Bajwa also attended.

Bhikhiwind (Am....
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Sarabjit cremated with full state honors at Bhikhiwind.

Badal,Rahul Gandhi,Sukhbir, Preneet, Bajwa also attended.

Bhikhiwind (Amritsar), May 3(BB):Mrtyr Sarabjit Singh was accorded a state funeral in his Punjab hometown of Bhikhiwind on Friday. The last rites were performed by his sister; Dalbir Kaur.Thousands of people attended the cremation ceremony.S Parkash Singh Badal, Maharani Preneet Kaur , Sukhbir Badal,Rahul Gandhi also Partap Singh Bajwa also attended
Sarabjit's body was brought to India from Pakistan last night. The body was brought to Amritsar from Lahore onboard a special Air India flight and was subsequently taken to his native town in a helicopter.

Before handing over the body to the family, a second post-mortem was also conducted on Sarabjit's body at the government-run Amritsar Medical College in Patti to "know the cause behind his death". The first autopsy was conducted at Pakistan's Jinnah Hospital where Sarabjit died.
Sarabjit was brutally attacked on Friday last week by six fellow inmates when he and other prisoners were brought out of their cells for a break.






Pb Election Commission directs to implement model code of conduct strictly

Asks Chief Secretary to ensure the compliance

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, May 3 : The State Election Commission (S....
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Asks Chief Secretary to ensure the compliance

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, May 3 : The State Election Commission (SEC) has issued strict directions for the compliance of model code of conduct which has come into force today with the issuance of notification for the election of 145 Panchayat Smitis and 22 Zila Parishads. SEC has also written a letter to the Chief Secretary for ensuring the compliance of conduct.



An Official spokesman of the SEC said that during the election process Ministers shall not combine their official visit with electioneering work and shall not make use of official machinery and personnel or other Government resources including government vehicle for furtherance of interests of any candidate. Official telephones including mobiles, fax etc. shall not be used for electioneering purposes. The Ministers and other authorities shall not sanction grants/payment out of their discretionary funds from the time elections are announced by the Commission. Further they shall not announce any financial grant in any form or promises thereof or make any promise of constructions of road, provision of drinking water facility etc. or make any adhoc appointment in government public undertaking etc. which may have the effect of influencing the voters in favour of the party in power. They shall not sanction any new scheme or make any announcement of any new scheme. Laying of foundation stone etc. of a project or a scheme of any kind shall not be done during the period of election.

An Official Spokesman further said that use of rest houses, circuit houses and other government accommodation should be permitted to all the candidates and the political parties on the same terms and conditions on which it is permissible for the party in power. However, no candidate or party shall be allowed to use such accommodations (including premises apartments thereto) as a campaign office or for holding any public meeting for the purpose of election propaganda.

An Official Spokesman further said that a public servant shall not participate or accompany a Minister in any programme, organized at an individual’s house for which the Minister has accepted the invitation during his election tour. The loud speakers shall be used only between 07.00 A.M. to 10.00 P.M. No party or candidate shall hold public meeting or processions without obtaining necessary permission from the competent Local Authority(s). Places of worship such as temples, mosques, churches etc. shall not be used as forum for election propaganda.



Notification issued for Panchayat Samtis and Zila Parishad polls

Nominations start, May 7 last date for nominations

Voting on May 19 and counting on May 21

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandi....
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Nominations start, May 7 last date for nominations

Voting on May 19 and counting on May 21

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, May 3 : The State Election Commission today issued notification for the election of 145 Panchayat Smitis and 22 Zila Parishads in the state. With the issuance of notification Model Code of Conduct came into force which would remain in force till May 23. It was disclosed by an official spokesperson of the State Election Commission.


He said that the process of filing of nomination has started from today i.e. from May 3 and would last till May 7.Secrutiny of the papers would be done on May 8 and papers could be withdrawn up to May 9. Voting would be conducted on May 19 and counting of votes would be done on May 21 results would be announced on the same day. Election process would be completed on May 23. The spokesperson further said that voting on May 19 would start at 8 a.m. and continue till 4 p.m. the counting of votes would be started at 8 a.m. on May 21.



He said that with the issuance of notification the Model Code of Conduct has come into force. The spokesperson clarified that the Model Code of Conduct would be applicable only in the villages which directly come under the revenue jurisdiction of concerned Panchayat Smitis and Zila Parishads.



Sarbjit's Murder in Pakistan: SAD seeks probe by Red Cross


Chandigarh, May 3 (babushahi.com bureau): Shiromani Akali Dal on Thursday demanded an independent inquiry into the murder of Indian prisoner S....
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Chandigarh, May 3 (babushahi.com bureau): Shiromani Akali Dal on Thursday demanded an independent inquiry into the murder of Indian prisoner Sarabjit Singh in Pakistan.


An inquiry by the International Committee of Red Cross is imperative to expose the utter human rights violations in this case, said SAD president and Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal in a statement issued here.

He said, “India should push Pakistan for an independent probe into Sarabjit’s death. The way he was butchered in the jail is a direct violation of human rights. The International Committee of the Red Cross should be involved.”



Lashing out at the Congress-led UPA government at the Centre for its failure to protect the life of an Indian citizen lodged in a Pakistan jail, Sukhbir said its weak-kneed policies were responsible for the “cold-blooded murder” of Sarabjit. “An earlier decisive and stern diplomatic move could have saved the life of an Indian citizen,” he asserted.



The SAD chief said India should have learnt from countries like USA, who leave no stone unturned to protect their citizens whenever they are in a problem. He added that the scam-tainted minority government was so engrossed in its battle for daily survival that it had no concern for the safety and dignity of their citizens.

Describing the murder of Sarabjit as the most condemnable and heinous crime, Sukhbir said the whole country was angry with the lame-duck attitude of the Union government.



Two Akali leaders booked for assaulting SGPC member in Kapurthala


Kapurthala, May 3 (babushahi.com bureau): Two Akali leaders have been booked on the charges of assault and hurting religious sentiments by pu....
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Kapurthala, May 3 (babushahi.com bureau): Two Akali leaders have been booked on the charges of assault and hurting religious sentiments by pulling the beard of a Sikh. The complaint was filed by SGPC member Jarnail Singh Dogranwala.


The accused, block sami-ti vice-chairman Ranjit Singh Khojewal and senior Akali leader Dalwinder Singh Sidhu, denied all the charges and alleged that they had been falsely implicated.


Dogranwala in his complaint alleges that Khojewal and Sidhu have assaulted him twice in the previous week.
On May 1, when I was coming out of district planning committee chief Sarabjit Singh Makkar’s office, Khojewal assaulted me and pulled my from my beard. and My turban was removed. Then Sidhu also pulled me from my hair and both thrashed me. When I cried for help, they fled.”


The police have booked the accused under Sections 323 (voluntarily causing hurt), 295-A (outraging religious feelings) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code.
Later, Khojewal and Sidhu,along with their supporters reached court premises, and staged a protest opposite the office of Makkar, allegeing that they were being framed.



Boxer Ram Singh gets bail in heroin haul case


Fatehgarh Sahib, May 3 (babushahi.com bureau): International boxer Ram Singh, who had been arrested last month in connection huge drug haul in....
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Fatehgarh Sahib, May 3 (babushahi.com bureau): International boxer Ram Singh, who had been arrested last month in connection huge drug haul in Punjab, received bail on Thursday here.
Fatehgarh Sahib special judge Kuldip Singh issued the bail orders. After the arrest of expatriate Anoop Singh Kahlon, the police had claimed to have busted an international drugtrade racket operating from the state. Last month, Punjab Police dismissed Ram Singh as head constable in the force.
The police had charged Ram Singh with consuming heroin bought from Kahlon and Kulwinder Singh. The results of his blood, urine and hair examinations are awaited. The maximum punishment under the law is rigorous imprisonment up to one year or a fine of up to Rs 20,000 or both.



G.S Tiwana joins as AETC at Bathinda



Amrit Pal Brar



Bathinda May 2: G.S.Tiwana PCS (allied) joined as Assistant Excise & Taxation offic....
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Amrit Pal Brar



Bathinda May 2: G.S.Tiwana PCS (allied) joined as Assistant Excise & Taxation officer (AETC) at Bathinda on Monday. He was recently transferred by Punjab Government to Bathinda. He belongs to Ludhiana.



Vineet Punia selected as new DPR Punjab University

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, May 2 : A perfect PR professional Vineet Punia is all set to join as Director Public Relations in Punjab Uni....
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By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, May 2 : A perfect PR professional Vineet Punia is all set to join as Director Public Relations in Punjab University Chandigarh. He has already received appointment letter from the Punjab University authorities for the assignment of DPR.

Presently Punia is working as public relation officer with the Chief Minister Haryana. He will take over the new assignment in next few days. It is significant to mention that after the retirement of Sanjiv Tiwari from the post of DPR PU, the university authorities have been making time-gap arrangements to carry out the publicity work.



Election of Punjab and Haryana Secretariat Joint Action Committee Held

Chandigarh, 2nd May (Gagandeep Sohal) A prominent meeting of Punjab and Haryana Secretariat employees was held at Punjab and Haryana Secretariat in wh....
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Chandigarh, 2nd May (Gagandeep Sohal) A prominent meeting of Punjab and Haryana Secretariat employees was held at Punjab and Haryana Secretariat in which the employees of both the secretariat discussed various important issues and a joint action committee was constituted under the guidance of Gurnam Singh Badheri, Superintendent, Punjab Civil Secretariat. During the meeting Rohtash Nehra was elected Chairman, Parmdeep Singh Bhabat, President and Jaspreet Randhawa as General Seceretary. ”We will resolve the joint demands of the employees from both the secretariats by meeting the higher officials of both the secretariats and soon the remaining list of the members of the committee will be issued” said Mr. Nehra and Mr. Bhabat.



Body of Sarabjit reaches Amritsar, cremation in Bhikhiwind on Friday

By Gagandeep Sohal

Amritsar, May 2 : The mortal remains of Sarabjit Singh arrived in Amritsar on Thursday evening from Lahore on a special ....
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By Gagandeep Sohal

Amritsar, May 2 : The mortal remains of Sarabjit Singh arrived in Amritsar on Thursday evening from Lahore on a special Air India flight. The aircraft carrying the body landed in Amritsar almost one hour behind expected time after Pakistani customs and anti-narcotics departments delayed its departure from the Lahore international airport.



The flight was held up as clearances were sought before allowing it to take off. The flight landed at Guru Ram Das Rajasansi international airport near Amritsar just minutes later.



The body was received by Deputy CM Sukhbir Badal, minister of state for external affairs Preneet Kaur and Punjab revenue minister Bikram Singh Majithia and several other ministers and leaders of Punjab at the airport. Sarabjit's body will be taken to his native village Bhikhiwind on a helicopter, where he will be cremated tomorrow at 2 PM with full state honour. Family members of Sarabjit Singh have already reached their hometown Bhikhiwind where his body will be brought to from Amritsar.



According to reports, Sarabjit's body will first be kept in a hospital mortuary for further post-mortem tests. The body will be released by the unidentified hospital on Friday morning and flown by helicopter to Bhikhiwind.



3 day state mourning in Punjab,Badal announces 1 crore for family of Sarabjit

Also announced Govt job for Sarabjit's daughters

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, May 2 :Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh ....
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Also announced Govt job for Sarabjit's daughters

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, May 2 :Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal this afternoon talked to Mrs. Dalbir Kaur, sister of Sarabjit Singh, who dies in a Pakistan hospital, succumbing to grievous injuries received in a murderous assault on him in the jail there.


The Chief Minister condoled the tragic death with the family, expressing profound grief and sorrow over the tragic death prayed to the Almighty to grant peace to the departed soul and courage to bear this huge loss in this hour of crisis. Mr. Badal assured the family members of Sarabjit Singh that Punjab government would extend all help and support to them.





The Chief Minister declared a three day state mourning in Punjab. Flags will fly half mast on all government buildings and there will be no official ceremonial functions during this period.

The Chief Minister has announced a financial assistance of Rs One crore to the bereaved family. The Government has already announced that the two daughters of Mr. Sarabjit Singh will be given government jobs in Punjab.



Haryana transfers four IAS officer,Dhillon posted Additional PS to CM

Chandigarh, May 2 (babushahi.com brueau) The Haryana Government has issued transfer and posting orders of four IAS officers with immediate effect.
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Chandigarh, May 2 (babushahi.com brueau) The Haryana Government has issued transfer and posting orders of four IAS officers with immediate effect.


S.S.Dhillon, Principal Secretary, Town and Country Planning and Urban Estates Department has been posted as Additional Principal Secretary to Chief Minister against a vacant post.


.Dhanpat Singh, Principal Secretary, Technical Education Department has been posted as Principal Secretary, Food and Supplies Department.
T.C.Gupta, Principal Secretary, Food and Supplies Department and Nodal Officer for Monitoring the Chief Minister’s announcements and Monitoring and Coordination has been posted as Principal Secretary, Town and Country Planning and Urban Estates Department and also given the additional charge of Nodal Officer for Monitoring the Chief Minister’s announcements and Monitoring and Coordination.


Avtar Singh, Principal Secretary, Environment Department has also been given the additional charge of Principal Secretary, Technical Education Department.



Flight carrying Sarabjit's body from Lahore to take off as paperwork finished

Chandigarh, May 2 (Babushahi.com bureau) : Pakistan Foreign Affairs spokesperson Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry says, ''We had given all facilities to Sarbajit ....
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Chandigarh, May 2 (Babushahi.com bureau) : Pakistan Foreign Affairs spokesperson Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhry says, ''We had given all facilities to Sarbajit in hospital. Unfortunately, he died of a heart attack. We have given accesses to his family and Indian embassy..This incident should not affect overall relation with India. Dialogue should continue in larger interest.''



PM announces ex-gratia of Rs. 25 lakh for Sarabjit's family

New Delhi, May 2 (Babushahi.com bureau) : Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh has announced an ex-gratia of 25 lakh rupees from the Prime Minister's Reli....
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New Delhi, May 2 (Babushahi.com bureau) : Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh has announced an ex-gratia of 25 lakh rupees from the Prime Minister's Relief Fund for the bereaved family of Sarabjit Singh.

Both the Houses of Parliament today expressed deep sense of shock and sorrow on the sad demise of the Indian citizen Sarabjit Singh in Lahore. Adopting similar Resolutions, the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha condemned the inhuman treatment meted out to Sarabjit Singh and hoped that the culprits will be brought to book. Later, the members stood in silence as a mark of respect in memory of the departed.

External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid said there is an extreme level of sadness throughout the country over the issue and the government will provide all support to the family of the deceased prisoner. Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi met family of Sarabjit Singh. He spent around 30 minutes with the family and consoled them.

Sarabjit's sister Dalbir Kaur alleged that he was killed because of elections in Pakistan.Talking to media in New Delhi, she appealed to the political parties to come together to give an answer to Pakistan.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Manish Tewari has decided to cancel the dinner scheduled for the National Film Award winners to be held today following demise of Sarabjit Singh. BJP has asked the UPA government to severe bilateral ties with Pakistan in the wake of brutal murder of Sarabjit Singh. Party spokesman Shahnawaz Hussain demanded the recall of the Indian High Commissioner from Islamabad.
Meanwhile, the Home Ministry has issued advisory to all states asking them to step up security of all Pakistani prisoners lodged in their respective jails.



Pak hands over body of Sarabjit Singh to Indian officials

Chandigarh, May 2 (Babushahi.com bureau) The body of Indian death row prisoner Sarabjit Singh, who died early on Thursday following a brutal assault b....
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Chandigarh, May 2 (Babushahi.com bureau) The body of Indian death row prisoner Sarabjit Singh, who died early on Thursday following a brutal assault by other inmates of a jail in Lahore, was handed over to officials of the Indian High Commission by Pakistani authorities.

Earlier, Pakistan gave clearance for a special Indian flight to take back the body.
Two officials of the Indian High Commission received the body.
They will accompany the body on the special flight to India.
Footage on television showed policemen and staff of Jinnah Hospital loading a plain wooden coffin with the body into an ambulance.

Several vehicles with armed policemen escorted the ambulance from the hospital to Lahore international airport.

Pakistani authorities handed over the body after an autopsy was performed by a medical board.

Samples from the body were sent for forensic tests and the final report on the autopsy is expected to be submitted in two weeks, sources said.

Foolproof security was put in place at Jinnah Hospital for the handing over of the body.

Dozens of police commandos were deployed in and around the hospital.

Sarabjit, 49, succumbed early today to injuries sustained during a brutal assault by other inmates of Kot Lakhpat Jail on Friday.

He was hit on the head with bricks and cut with knives fashioned from spoons.

The Indian national had spent about 22 years in Pakistani jails after being convicted of alleged involvement in bomb attacks in Punjab province that killed 14 people in 1990.

His mercy petitions were rejected by the courts and former President Pervez Musharraf.

The previous Pakistan People's Party-led government put off Sarabjit's execution for an indefinite period in 2008.

Sarabjit's family says he was the victim of mistaken identity and had mistakenly strayed across the border in an inebriated state.



India demands justice from Pak after Sarabjit's death

New Delhi, May 2 (Babushahi.com bureau) : India has demanded justice from Pakistan after the death of Sarabjit Singh in a barbaric attack in a Lahore ....
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New Delhi, May 2 (Babushahi.com bureau) : India has demanded justice from Pakistan after the death of Sarabjit Singh in a barbaric attack in a Lahore jail with PM Manmohan Singh saying it was particularly regrettable it did not heed pleas to take a humanitarian view of the prisoner's case.


As an outraged government and political parties across the spectrum showed solidarity with 49-year-old Sarabjit's family, his sister Dalbir Kaur said he should be declared a martyr.

Prime Minister Singh said Pakistan should ensure that those who are responsible were punished.

Hailing Sarabjit as a "brave son of India", he attacked Pakistan for not heeding to pleas for taking a humanitarian view on this issue after the attack by the jail inmates.

In a statement in New Delhi on Thursday hours after Sarabjit succumbed to injuries suffered in last week's assault, Singh underlined that the criminals responsible for "the barbaric and murderous attack must be brought to justice".

"I am deeply saddened by the passing away of Sarabjit Singh. He was a brave son of India who bore his tribulations with valiant fortitude," the Prime Minister said in his condolence message.

"It is particularly regrettable that the government of Pakistan did not heed the pleas of the government of India, Sarabjit's family and of the civil society in India and Pakistan to take a humanitarian view of this case," he said.

Asserting that Sarabjit's death was a killing of an Indian citizen while in the custody of Pakistan jail authorities, the External Affairs Ministry demanded that Pakistan conduct a through probe into the incident to ensure that those who are responsible were punished.

BJP termed as a cold blooded murder the death of Sarabjit.

"It is a cold blooded murder. This is not the way civilised nations behave," BJP leader Sushma Swaraj wrote on microblogging site Twitter.

External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid said he was "extremely anguished".

Union Minister Manish Tewary said that what happened to Sarabjit was "extremely inhuman and barbaric" since India has been pressing with Pakistan to take a humanitarian view in his case.

Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal demanded an independent probe by an international agency into the circumstances leading to death of Sarabjit. Badal also criticised the Centre's approach in handling the matter.

Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi accused governments of India and Pakistan of misleading people on the Sarabjit case.

"Truth on this issue must come out," he tweeted.

"Centre is unable to give a strong answer to Pakistan's inhuman acts. Beheading of our soldiers & now Sarabjit's death are 2 recent examples," he said on Twitter.

BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad described Sarabjit's death as a cruel murder and accused the Government of being indifferent to his condition in a Pakistani jail.

"He was in Pakistani jail and the responsibility was of the Pakistan government to ensure his safety and security. But, I am pained at the indifference of the Government of India," Prasad, BJP's Deputy Leader in the Rajya Sabha, said.

Akali Dal leader Naresh Gujral said Pakistani authorities should be held directly responsible for the violation of human rights of a person.

"It is a contravention of international treaties and the government of India should have put more pressure on international human rights organisations," he said.

Gujral hoped that a credible investigation into the assault on Sarabjit in Kot Lakhpat jail of Pakistan would be carried out by people who enjoy international credibility.

"There are human rights activists like Asma Jehangir who enjoy that kind of credibility, and I do hope in the interest of Indo-Pak relations the Pakistan authorities would involve such people so that the truth comes out," Gujral said.

Kiran Bedi, country's first woman IPS officer and former Director General of Tihar Prisons, said India should approach Human Rights Council to investigate the assault on Sarabjit.

"It is a case of serious human rights violation. Sarabjit's death inside Pakistan prison was preventable. We need to find out if our Consulate in Lahore was regularly visiting him?" Bedi said.

Activist and CPI(ML) leader Kavita Krishnan said Sarabjit was a "victim of lethal mix of communalism and jingoism" that drives state policy in the subcontinent.

AAP National Convenor Arvind Kejriwal also condemned the incident.



Arunendra Kumar took over as Member (Mechanical) Railway Board and ex officio Secretary to the Government of India.



Amrit Pal Brar



Delhi May 2: Arunendra Kumar took over as Member (Mechanical) Railway Board and ex ....
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Amrit Pal Brar



Delhi May 2: Arunendra Kumar took over as Member (Mechanical) Railway Board and ex officio Secretary to the Government of India.



Haryana Punjabi Sahitya Akademi Director gets one year extension


Chandigarh, May 2 (babushahi.com bureau): Haryana Government has given extension of one year in the services of Director, Haryana Punjabi Sahi....
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Chandigarh, May 2 (babushahi.com bureau): Haryana Government has given extension of one year in the services of Director, Haryana Punjabi Sahitya Akademi, Sukhchain Singh Bhandari.


Bhandari has been appointed as Akademi Director on April 28, 2011 for a period of two year. During his two years tenure of service as Director, Bhandari has worked extensively for promoting Punjabi language, literature and culture. As many as 70 programmes including Punjabi Kavi Darbaar, Kahani Darbaar, story and poem workshop, street plays, seminars and other programmes had been organized in various cities, towns and villages for promoting Punjabi language in the state.


Punjabi Sahitya Akademi has not only increased the cash incentives of annual literature awards but it had also instituted several new awards for honoring the litterateurs of Punjabi language .



Haryana cabibet okays amendment in Sports Policy 2009

Cabinet gave approval to increasing the cash awards and incentives to outstanding sportspersons



Cabinet has also approved....
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Cabinet gave approval to increasing the cash awards and incentives to outstanding sportspersons



Cabinet has also approved cash award of Rs five lakh to those who have climbed Mount Everest after March 2005



Cabinet also approved the recommendations of the Committee constituted under the Chairmanship of Haryana Chief Secretary to consider and suggest the alternative use of land blocked under the notified SEZs



Cabinet also approved the Policy for Communication and Connectivity Infrastructure.



The Cabinet also okays amendment in Land Pooling Scheme



Haryana Cabinet has decided to make recommendation to Haryana Governor to consider grant of pardon to four convicts

Haryana to provide cabinet rank facilities to EX-CMs

Chandigarh, May 2 (babushahi.com bureau): Haryana Cabinet which met under the Chairmanship of Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda here today approved the proposal regarding facilities to be provided to the Ex-Chief Ministers of Haryana.
At present in the State, no additional facility is being extended to the Ex-Chief Minister of Haryana other than those facilities being provided to ex-MLAs, where as the States of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh and Chhatisgarh are providing some facilities to the Ex-Chief Ministers like rent free accommodation, staff etc.
Cabinet also approved the constitution of State Level Police Recruitment Board to carry out direct recruitment to various ranks in police service by a transparent process adopting well codified system.




The Cabinet also approved the recommendations of the Committee constituted under the Chairmanship of Haryana Chief Secretary to consider and suggest the alternative use of land blocked under the notified Special Economic Zones (SEZs) and revision of the Policy of the Town and Country Planning Department regarding grant of licenses to Industrial Colonies.
As per the recommendations the SEZ developers may be encouraged to implement their alreadysanctioned SEZ projects and the Government would facilitate theimplementation of such projects wherever the promoters are found to be keen to complete their originally envisaged SEZ projects. However, the Government may provide an alternate land use plan for such of the SEZs where the promoters were reluctant to implement the SEZ projects.
In the case of SEZs notified with land measuring 50 acres and above andsituated in 'non-residential' land use zones, they may be given the option to apply for an 'Industrial Colony License' or a 'Cyber City/Technology City' and the Town and Country Planning Department wouldgrant licenses for development of Industrial Colonies/ Cyber/Technology cities in these cases by one-time relaxation of the designated land use zone conditions under the Haryana Development and Regulation of Urban Areas Act, 1975 and Rules framed there under. While the land use norms in case of an Industrial Colony License would be applicable as per the revised licensing policy, those in the case of IT/ Technology Cities would be applicable as per the provisions contained in the Industrial and Investment Policy – 2011.



The Cabinet also approved the Policy for Communication and Connectivity Infrastructure in Haryana in order to strengthen the core Information and Communication infrastructure.
The policy comprehensively addresses all the related aspects of laying of Communication and Connectivity Infrastructure in the state and envisages grant of approvals and clearances across the state following a uniform set of guidelines.
The "Policy for Communication and Connectivity Infrastructure in Haryana” defines the entities that would be eligible to apply for permissions from the various authorities such as the Urban Local Bodies, Development and Panchayat Department, PW (B and R), PW (Irrigation), Forest Department and other government departments and organisations such as the HUDA, HSAMB, HSIIDC etc. Cabinet also approved creation of Sub-Tehsil Rai in district Sonipat.
The Sub-Tehsil Rai would have 45 villages which would be taken out from Tehsil Sonipat.



The has accorded approval to amend the Sports Policy -2009.
The Cabinet gave approval to increasing the cash awards and incentives to outstanding sportspersons; to provide similar awards and incentives to differently abled sportspersons; to incorporate in the sports policy scholarships being given to sportspersons of SC categories and honoraria being given to Dronacharya, Arjuna and Dhyan Chand awardees of the state and to provide cash awards to sportspersons who have represented the State of Haryana or who were born in Haryana or one of the whose parents were born in Haryana.


The Cabinet has also approved cash award of Rs five lakh to those who have climbed Mount Everest after March 2005. The State and Central Government employees would not be covered under it.
The Cabinet also okays amendment in Land Pooling Scheme to attract more landowners to opt for the scheme which envisages involving the landowners, whose land has been acquired, as partners in the development process.

According to amendments, the land owners will now be permitted to opt for the scheme within one month from the date of determination of compensation amount of land by the Committee headed by Divisional Commissioner concerned. The concerned Divisional Commissioner would hold the meetings at least three months prior to the last date for announcement of award. Further the compensation amount so determined or proposed to be awarded by the Land Acquisition Collectors would be made known to the landowners so that they are in a position to make informed decisions regarding exercise of their option under the Scheme.


The landowners will be free to opt for the Scheme in any ratio and not 50:50 as prescribed in the Scheme earlier, subject to a minimum of one acre land being offered under the Land Pooling Scheme.
The landowners will not be permitted to change their options at any subsequent stage once having exercised option after determination of rates of compensation by the Committee.







National Urban Health Mission (NUHM) as a sub-mission under the National Health Mission (NHM)



By Amrit Pal Brar


Delhi: May 2: The Union Cabinet gave its approval to launch a National Urban Health ....
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By Amrit Pal Brar


Delhi: May 2: The Union Cabinet gave its approval to launch a National Urban Health Mission (NUHM) as a new sub-mission under the over-arching National Health Mission (NHM). Under the Scheme the following proposals have been approved: 1. One Urban Primary Health Centre (U-PHC) for every fifty to sixty thousand population. 2. One Urban Community Health Centre (U-CHC) for five to six U-PHCs in big cities. 3. One Auxiliary Nursing Midwives (ANM) for 10,000 population. 4. One Accredited Social Health Activist ASHA (community link worker) for 200 to 500 households.


The estimated cost of NUHM for 5 years period is Rs.22,507crore with the Central Government share of Rs.16,955 crore. Centre-State funding pattern will be 75:25 except for North Eastern states and other special category states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand for whom the funding pattern will be 90:10.


The scheme will focus on primary health care needs of the urban poor. This Mission will be implemented in 779 cities and towns with more than 50,000 population and cover about 7.75 crore people.



Haryana to seek clemency for four convicts in public interest


Chandigarh May 2 (babushahi.com bureau): Haryana Cabinet has decided to make recommendation to Haryana Governor to consider grant of pardon t....
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Chandigarh May 2 (babushahi.com bureau): Haryana Cabinet has decided to make recommendation to Haryana Governor to consider grant of pardon to four convicts namely Rambir, Vinod alias Lakhmi, Satpal and Rajiv as clemency to them is in the larger interest of maintaining social harmony, law and order as well as peace in their village and in the region.


A decision to this effect was taken in the Cabinet which met under the Chairmanship of Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda here today. The Cabinet approved that the mercy appeal under Article 161 of the constitution of India may be submitted before Haryana Governor with recommendation for grant of pardon on the basis of compromise effected between the parties after assessing the recommendatory reports of DGP, DC and others. The conduct of the petitioners has also been satisfactory in jail as per the report of Director General of Prisons, Haryana.


Thus, the objective sought to be achieved is to maintain and keep peace, harmony and brotherhood for betterment and interest of the society at large as validated by communitywide compromise and commitment of maintenance of peace.



Haryana govt hikes DA for its employees from 72 to 80%


Chandigarh, May 2 (babushahi.com bureau): Haryana Finance Minister, H. S. Chatha today announced to enhance the rate of Dearness Allowance pay....
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Chandigarh, May 2 (babushahi.com bureau): Haryana Finance Minister, H. S. Chatha today announced to enhance the rate of Dearness Allowance payable to the State Government employees from existing 72 per cent to 80 per cent and it would be given in cash with effect from January 1, 2013.
Chatha said that eight per cent increase had been made in the dearness allowances of Haryana Government employees on the pattern of Government of India employees. It would put annual impact of Rs 420 crore on the state exchequer. However, the liabilities for the current financial year would be Rs 490 crore as Dearness Allowance would be paid to the employees for 14 months from January 1, 2013 to February 2014.



Indian Government responsible for death of Sarbjit Singh : Gurbaksh Ram

By Harish Dido


Ferozepur,May 2 (babushahi.com bureau): After tolerating 18 years atrocities in Pakistan Jails returned to India, ....
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By Harish Dido


Ferozepur,May 2 (babushahi.com bureau): After tolerating 18 years atrocities in Pakistan Jails returned to India, Gurbaksh Ram, expressed his deep concern on the death of Sarbjit Singh and held responsible the Indian Government for the same.
Gurbaksh Ram said, “The Indian government has not taken seriously the indication of attack on Sarbjit Singh and despite pointing out by the family of Sarbjit Singh and the result of the same is before us.”


He further said, “The leaders of our country are busy in minting money, taking care of their own families and dirty politics and similarly is the position of opposition parties. All look for allegations and counter-allegations and none of them had ever thought of looking after the people in Pakistan Jails and their families in India. He feels ashamed on coming back to his own land on ignoring by the bureaucracy. He had number of times approached to the Punjab Government for financial assistance, job and a house to live in but so far there is no response from the government and now doing a daily wage worker to make both ends meet.
He also showed his concern that the same fate may not be with the family members of Sarbjit Singh.



Death of Sarabjit is the Diplomatic failure of Manmohan Govt.-Badal

Chandigarh,May 2(babushahi.com bureau):The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed shock and grief over what he described as “th....
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Chandigarh,May 2(babushahi.com bureau):The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today expressed shock and grief over what he described as “the eminently avoidable tragedy of Sarabjit Singh” culminating in his death in Pakistan in the early hours of the morning today. He strongly condemned the inhuman treatment and brutal murder of Sarabjit Singh right under the nose of the Pakistani authorities.

Mr. Badal described Sarabjit Singh as “a national martyr” who suffered unspeakable repression and torture with dignity.

The Chief Minister said that the body of the martyr will be cremated with full state honours. The Chief Minster said that the Punjab government will provide government jobs to Sarabjit Singh’s two daughters. "We will also stand by the family for whatever help they need."

A special chartered plane is being kept ready in Delhi to bring Sarabjit’s body and members of his family to Amritsar. From there, they will be flown to their village for Sarabjit Singh’s cremation.

The government will move a resolution to condole the death of Sarabjit Singh and to pay homage to the departed soul.

Mr. Badal came down heavily on the handling of the case by the Government of India. “This is ‘gross diplomatic failure’ and a sign of weakness on the apart of Government of India. Nations are run with a degree of strength of will, which is so missing in this government. We have this very sad feeling that the Government of India failed to articulate national sentiment on Sarabjit and did not even take the necessary diplomatic initiative at a level where it was called for. The issue needed to be on the table in any Indo-Pak engagement because Sarabjit was not just an innocent individual but had become yardstick to judge the sincerity for the Pakistan Government towards peace efforts”, said Mr. Badal.

He said that there was an urgent need to treat it as a rarest of rare cases and make a diplomatic initiative at the highest level to secure his release. “There was fund of sympathy for Sarabjit’s cause within Pakistan and human rights civil liberties organizations and activists there had been actively working to put pressure on their government for Sarbjit’s release. But we have a very sad feeling that the Government of India far from spear-heading the initiative in this direction failed even to lend support to these sane voices within Pakistan, added Mr. Badal.”



Sarabjit Singh dies in Jinnah hospital Lahore,Sushil Shinde meets family

Lahore/Amritsar, May2 (BB):Very shocking news for not only the family of Sarbajit but for all the Indians that Sarabjit Singh died in Jinnah Hos....
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Lahore/Amritsar, May2 (BB):Very shocking news for not only the family of Sarbajit but for all the Indians that Sarabjit Singh died in Jinnah Hospital Lahore late at 1.30 AM today after being comatose for nearly a week following a brutal in Lahore jail on April 26,2013
According to Pak media reports officials of the Indian high commission in Islamabad said they had been informed by officials of Jinnah Hospital about Sarabjit's death.
Meanwhile, the family of Sarabjit is in state of shock. According to Raj Kumar Verka, the family wants the handing over of the body of Sarabjit so that the last rites can be performed according to the family traditions. He said the govt of India is trying its best for the same. He was in touch with Indian home Minister Sushil Shinde.
Meanwhile Chief Minister Punjab and the state government has announced to offer Govt. jobs to the family members of Sarabjit.Mr Harcharan Bains ,advisor to CM Pb on National Affairs and Media , said that MR Badal and Sukhbir Badal have expressed shock over the death of Sarabjit and demanded that the body be brought back to India. He said Sarabjit is martyr and will be cremated with full honors.

Indian Home minister Sushil Shinde met the family of Sarabjit after arriving at Amritsar early in the morning on Thursday.

Sukhbir Badal announced government jobs to both daughters of Sarabjit .



DataWind announces Aakash2 project completion

ByBaljit Balli

New Delhi/Chandigarh,May 2: DataWind today announced the completion of 100,000 Aakash low-cost computing ac....
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ByBaljit Balli

New Delhi/Chandigarh,May 2: DataWind today announced the completion of 100,000 Aakash low-cost computing access devices for IIT-Bombay (under the Indian Government’s Ministry of Human Resources Development’s National Mission for Education through Information Communication Technology).The announcemnet has been made by Mr Suneet Tuli, CEO of the company.



In a communication sent to babushahi.com Mr Tuli said that the project won by DataWind in an open and transparent international tender for the supply of Aakash1 devices at $49.98, was subsequently modified to 98,000 Aakash2 devices and 2,000 devices with DataWind’s recommendations for Aakash3, all at a price of Rs.2,263 (currently $41.61).


The Aakash2 devices are the world’s lowest cost computing access devices, delivered to IIT-Bombay with 12 months warranty and accessories at only Rs.2,263 (competitively featured tablets are available in Indian market for around Rs.5,000). The devices utilize multi-touch projective capacitive touch screens manufactured at India’s only touch-screen manufacturing facility, established by the company in Amritsar. The devices are powered by a Cortex A8 – 1Ghz processor, of the same calibre as the original iPad, and contain 512MB of RAM (twice that of the original iPad). Flash memory of 4GB can be supplemented by up to 32GB through its micro-SD card slot. In addition to embedded WiFi, the Aakash2 tablet computers support external 3G and EVDO dongles for mobile broadband data connectivity. Supporting Google’s Android 4.0 operating system, VGA camera, G-sensor, internal microphone, speakers and headphone jack, the Aakash2 is a full-featured tablet computer intended to break the affordability barrier with the mission of bridging the digital divide. Commercially the device is sold as the UbiSlate 7Ci.


DataWind’s recommended specifications for Aakash3 contain an embedded quad-band Edge modem allowing for both cellular voice and data functionality. While external dongles provide limited coverage and can cost as much as 50% of the cost of Aakash devices, an internal cellular modem at no additional cost which allows the device to be used both as a mobile smart phone and also for ubiquitous internet connectivity with a basic SIM, will help herald India’s internet revolution. The devices also provide an accelerated web experience, using DataWind’s breakthrough web delivery platform covered by 18 U.S. and international patents. DataWind has delivered 2,000 units to IIT-Bombay with these specifications, as part of the 100,000 unit project. Commercially this device is sold as the UbiSlate 7C+.
Reviews, Awards & Accolades:


- The announcement elabotated that the Aakash2 has received very strong reviews globally, which resulted in DataWind’s founders Raja Singh Tuli and Suneet Singh Tuli being selected by Forbes Magazine in its annual Impact 15 list of social entrepreneurs for revolutionizing education.


- The Forbes magazine review of the product referred to it as ‘World Changing Indeed’. Techone 3’s review called it “one of the best tablet in the market with budget-friendly price tab”. Venture Beat’s reviewer’s conclusion was “I want this!”. Even, the Indian government’s Union Ministers and teachers gave the product a ‘Thumb’s Up”.


- Quartz included it in its “Five most disruptive technologies of 2012”, and Read-Write said: “People were stunned….You hold one in your hand it’s easy to imagine the next billion people coming online”


- DataWind was given the Shiksha Ratna Award by Digital Learning State Education Summit 2013 for the Aakash2.


- Even the UK Government’s Trade & Investment branch awarded DataWind as UK’s Most Innovative Mobile company for 2012.



Centre approves bill to confiscate property illegally acquired by corrupt public servants

New Delhi, May 1 (Babusahhi.com bureau) : The Union Cabinet today approved a bill which provides for confiscating property illegally acquired by corru....
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New Delhi, May 1 (Babusahhi.com bureau) : The Union Cabinet today approved a bill which provides for confiscating property illegally acquired by corrupt public servants and also set a time line for securing sanction to prosecute serving and retired public servants. The sweeping changes to the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 were approved by the Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today. Finance Minister P Chidambaram briefing reporters about the Cabinet decisions said provisions have been incorporated to confiscate and forfeit property illegally acquired by a corrupt public servant. He said, a timeframe has also been set for getting sanction of competent authority to prosecute serving and retired bureaucrats and reasons will have to be specified for giving the nod or refusing it. The amended bill has also laid down a clear definition of different forms of bribery in line with international practices.



Centre clears auction of 839 of FM radio channels in 294 cities

New Delhi, May 1 (Babushahi.com bureau) : The Union Cabinet today approved the Empowered Group of Minister's (EGoM)’s decision to conduct auction of 8....
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New Delhi, May 1 (Babushahi.com bureau) : The Union Cabinet today approved the Empowered Group of Minister's (EGoM)’s decision to conduct auction of 839 channels of FM radio stations in 294 cities through e-auction. Briefing newsmen on the Cabinet decisions, Finance Minister P. Chidambaram said, the decision is part of amendments in the Policy Guidelines for Phase -111 expansion of FM Radio broadcasting services through private agencies. Migration fee will be charged from existing operators on their migration from Phase-ll to Phase-Ill and the amount of migration fee would be decided after consultation with TRAI.



The additional channels that may become available due to reduced channels spacing to 400 KHz. could be considered subsequently after feasibility studies are completed. The proposed specific departures from the Requests for Proposals (RFP) followed in DoT for auction of 3G and Broadband Wireless Access (BWA) Spectrum were approved with some amendments. EGoM also decided that the authority to make any other minor changes in RFP would be delegated to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

The cabinet also reduced Subsidy in Nutrient Based rates for Phosphatic and Potassic fertilizers for the year 2013-14. The new rates will be applicable from 1st April 2013. According to the new rates, the total subsidy outgo for the P&K fertilizers for the financial year 2013-14 would be reduced by around 15 percent.

This will enable manufacturers and importers to import fertilizers and fertilizer inputs and undertake domestic production and make adequate availability of fertilizers to farmers in the year.

The Union Cabinet also gave its approval to launch a National Urban Health Mission (NUHM) as a new sub-mission under the over-arching National Health Mission (NHM).



Centre approves launch of National Urban Health Mission

New Delhi, May 1 (Babushahi.com bureau) : The Union Cabinet today approved the launch of National Urban Health Mission (NUHM) to reduce rates of infan....
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New Delhi, May 1 (Babushahi.com bureau) : The Union Cabinet today approved the launch of National Urban Health Mission (NUHM) to reduce rates of infant Mortality, Maternal mortality and for universal access to reproductive health care. The scheme focusing on primary health care needs of the urban poor will be implemented in 779 cities and towns with more than 50,000 population and cover about 7.75 crore people.

The estimated cost of NUHM for 5 years period is 22,507 crore rupees with the Central Government share of 16,955 crore rupees. Centre-State funding pattern of the Scheme will be sevetyfive is to twenty five.

However for North Eastern states and other special category states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand the funding pattern between Centre and State governments will be ninety is to ten.



CBI can investigate DA case against Mayawati : SC

New Delhi, May 1 (Babushahi.com buerau) : The Supreme Court has said CBI is free to investigate the disproportionate assets case against former Uttar ....
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New Delhi, May 1 (Babushahi.com buerau) : The Supreme Court has said CBI is free to investigate the disproportionate assets case against former Uttar Pradesh CM Mayawati that could spell fresh trouble for her.




A bench of justices P Sathasivam and Dipak Misra, who had quashed the proceedings against her on 6th July last year, said that it had passed the earlier order without going into the merit of DA case against her.



It said the FIR in the DA case was quashed because the agency proceeded against her without properly understanding its orders which were confined to Taj Corridor case.

It clarified that the judgement has not taken away CBI's power to proceed against her in a separate DA case.

"CBI can investigate the disproportionate assets case against her", the bench said adding that it would pass an order clarifying the earlier judgement.

"CBI's power to probe the case against Mayawati has not been taken away by us," the bench on Wednesday said while reserving its order on a review petition filed against its 6th July verdict.

It also said that the court will take note of CBI findings on the assets of Mayawati. Senior advocate S C Mishra, appearing for Mayawati, opposed the review plea and said that judgement was clear and there was no need for any clarification.

"No clarification is required as CBI can go ahead with the probe. This review plea is like appeal which should not be entertained," Mishra said.

The CBI, however, was reluctant to take a stand on the issue and the bench asked Solicitor General Mohan Parasaran thrice on what its stand was.

The SG just referred to the 6th July verdict and said that the agency's earlier stand did not find favour with the Supreme Court.

He said that CBI's power was not curtailed by the apex court. The bench asked Parasaran "Do you mean to say that it needs to be clarified that the right of CBI to probe was not curtailed by our judgement." "Yes," replied the SG.

The review petition has been filed by Uttar Pradesh native Kamlesh Verma who was an intervener in the case filed by Mayawati in the apex court for quashing the DA case against her.

Senior advocate Shanti Bhushan, appearing for Verma, pleaded with the court to pass order on review to bring accused to the book.

"The entire investigation was carried out by the CBI under Supreme Court's direction. It is the duty of the court to ensure that justice is done. It is the duty of this court to see that she is prosecuted," Bhushan said.

The Supreme Court had on 6th July quashed the nine-year-long disproportionate assets case against her and had pulled up the CBI for exceeding its jurisdiction by lodging an FIR against her without any direction from it.

The apex court had said the DA case against Mayawati was "unwarranted" and that the agency proceeded against her without properly understanding its orders which were confined to Taj Corridor case relating to the release of Rs 17 crore by UP government allegedly without sanction.



India to Pakistan : Release Sarabjit by removing all hurdles

New Delhi, May 1 (Babushahi.com buerau) : Concerned over the condition of Sarabjit Singh, who has slipped into "non-reversible coma", India has strong....
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New Delhi, May 1 (Babushahi.com buerau) : Concerned over the condition of Sarabjit Singh, who has slipped into "non-reversible coma", India has strongly asked Pakistan to release him immediately for best available treatment, saying this was not the time for invoking legal and bureaucratic reasons.




"We are concerned at the condition of Sarabjit Singh indicated by reports made available by doctors treating him in Jinnah Hospital (in Lahore).



"Our High Commissioner has met the Pakistan Foreign Secretary and urged the Pakistan government to immediately release him on humanitarian and sympathetic grounds so that he can benefit from the best available treatment in India," the Spokesperson in the Ministry of External Affairs said in New Delhi on Wednesday.



He also said India has alternatively also proposed that 49-year-old Sarabjit should be sent to a third country for proper medical treatment.

"This is not the time for invoking legal and bureaucratic reasons for not taking the right steps to save a human life. We believe that every endeavour should be made to save his life," the spokesperson said.

Earlier, sources in Lahore told PTI that the Indian death row convict has slipped into a "non-reversible" coma and doctors were struggling to save his life.

The deterioration in his condition could lead to "brain death", they said.

Meanwhile, the family of Sarabjit Singh after returning from Pakistan on Wednesday accused the government of doing little for the prisoner who was battling for his life after a brutal assault and said they would go to Delhi to meet the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and other leaders.

The family, which crossed over to India after visiting Sarabjit, who is comatose after last week's attack in Lahore's Kot Lakhpat Jail, said his life can be saved if the Indian government puts pressure on Pakistan to shift him to this country or abroad for better treatment.

"I will tell the Prime Minister with folded hands that I have doubts about the treatment being given to Sarabjit in Pakistan," Sarabjit's sister Dalbir Kaur told reporters on Wednesday.

Sarabjit sustained several injuries, including a skull fracture, when six prisoners attacked him in the jail. He was hit on the head with bricks and his neck and torso cut with sharp weapons.

He was convicted of alleged involvement in a string of bomb attacks in Punjab province that killed 14 people in 1990. His mercy petitions were rejected by the courts and former President Pervez Musharraf.

The outgoing Pakistan People's Party-led government put off Sarabjit's execution for an indefinite period in 2008.

His family says he is a victim of mistaken identity and had inadvertently strayed across the border in an inebriated state.



Additional Judges of the High Court of Chhattisgarh Get Extension

New Delhi, May 1 (Babushahi.com buerau) : The Govt of India has issued fresh Notification with regard to the appointment of Shri Ghulam Minhajuddin an....
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New Delhi, May 1 (Babushahi.com buerau) : The Govt of India has issued fresh Notification with regard to the appointment of Shri Ghulam Minhajuddin and Shri Radhe Shyam Sharma as Additional Judges of the High Court of Chhattisgarh with effect from 10th May 2013. As per the Notification, Ghulam Minhajuddin will continue as Addl. Judge till 11th July 2013; whereas, in the case of Shri Radhe Shyam Sharma the appointment will continue till 24th November 2013.



High Court dismisses all petitions regarding PCS Preliminary-Exam 2012 conducted by PPSC

Chandigarh, May 1 (Babushahi.com bureau) : In a significant decision, the Punjab and Haryana High Court today dismissed all petitions challenging the ....
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Chandigarh, May 1 (Babushahi.com bureau) : In a significant decision, the Punjab and Haryana High Court today dismissed all petitions challenging the result of preliminary PCS Exam 2012 conducted by Punjab Public Service Commission. Earlier the High Court had reserved its judgement on the petitions for filling up 160 different posts on account of alleged discrepancies in question paper and answer keys, pointed out by the petitioners.

Meanwhile Justice AG Masih while disposing of the petitions directed the PPSC to remove the grievances of the petitioners by suitably compensating the candidates with equal grace marks for Q. No. 36 of paper 2 having some discrepancies.

It is significant to mention that PPSC has already admitted it in the Court and give numbers to the candidates against the question under reference.



It may be recalled that petitioners Surinder Pal and others have sought direction of high court for setting aside the results and merit list prepared by the PPSC on December 11. The petitioner had further prayed to the court to refer the case regarding wrong questions in preliminary exams. The petitioners had also apprised the court that apart from 6 wrong questions, there are 16 more wrong questions that PPSC failed to consider. In 6 questions the commission had already given marks to all the candidates.

According to the petitioners, the discrepancies in the answer sheet have been admitted by the commission, who granted grace marks to all the candidates. This was violation of statutory rules, resulting in unjustified enrichment to various candidates who had not admitted the questions. Further arguing the case of Haryana, where too, similar discrepancies had been pointed out and high court had issued directions to refer the matter to an expert committee, petitioners pleaded for similar directions to PPSC in this matter.

After hearing the petition, HC issued notice to PPSC asking them to file their replies on the matter till January 10, when the matter has been fixed for further hearing. Court also ordered the commission to put the entire selection process on hold till the next date.



Haryana promotes two Dy Directors, 6 AIPROs of public relation dept


Chandigarh, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): -Haryana Government has promoted two Deputy Directors and six Assistant Information Public Relations....
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Chandigarh, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): -Haryana Government has promoted two Deputy Directors and six Assistant Information Public Relations Officers of Haryana Information and Public Relations Department.


Ved Parkash, Deputy Director (Auto) and Dr. Kuldeep Saini, Deputy Director (Admin and Field) have been promoted as Joint Directors. Six Assistant Information Public Relations Officers who have been promoted as District Information and Public Relations Officers include Surender Kumar, Jaibir Singh, Suresh Kanwar, Sube Singh, Dharamveer Singh and Paramjit Singh.



Public oriented issues should be taken up in special session: Jakhar


Chandigarh, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): Leader of opposition in Punjab Assembly Sunil Jakhar has said that SAD-BJP government should ensure ....
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Chandigarh, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): Leader of opposition in Punjab Assembly Sunil Jakhar has said that SAD-BJP government should ensure open debate over the various public oriented issues in the specially convened one day session of the state assembly.
In a statement issued here today Jakhar said that to chalk a special strategy to take the SAD-BJP regime from its horn during special session of the state assembly, a meeting of Congress Legislative Party had been convened at CLP office on Thursday.



Lashing out at the government, Jakhar said that in excuse of their so-called protest against the ‘wealth tax’, Akali-BJP were trying to divert the ire of common man of Punjab regarding Property Tax on urban residents, deteriorating law and order situation, politically patronized Sand, Land and Liqour mafia, harassment to farmers for payment and sale of their hard earned crops, embezzlement at tune of several crores in the Centrally funded public welfare schemes.



When the Union Finance Minister P.Chidhbram had already announced to withdraw the wealth tax, SAD-BJP government should allow open debate on above mentioned issues.

Sensing their defeat in the coming parliament elections, all factions of NDA are busy to look out for the baseless issues to spread lawlessness but UPA government under the command of AICC Chief Sonia Gandhi is committed to safeguard the interest of poor and needy besides other, said Jakhar.

To eradicate corruption and ensure benefit to the needy, direct subsidy is the brain-child of the UPA government, stated Jakhar.



Now when the issue of ‘wealth tax’ had vanished, it’s the moral as well as legal responsibility of the SAD-BJP government to ensure open debate on various issues prevailing in the state, demanded Jakhar.



All-India Punjabi Conference concludes at Punjabi University



Patiala, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): The sixth All-India Punjabi Conference, organised by Punjabi University, Patiala, concluded tod....
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Patiala, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): The sixth All-India Punjabi Conference, organised by Punjabi University, Patiala, concluded today with deep concerns expressed by the delegates to prevent its erosion and make efforts for its enrichment and furtherance among various generations and categories of people around the globe.


While the Vice-Chancellor, Dr Jaspal Singh highlighted various efforts made by Punjabi University in the direction of ‘perking up and making the things better’ with regard to making the University a nerve-centre for the promotion of Punjabi language, literature and culture. The University, inter alia, has published all works of Shakespeare, lives and contribution of Nobel Laureates and laws pertaining to women in Punjabi with the intention of spreading knowledge and creating awareness among the women to know their rights in the society, he said. Disclosing his interaction with the West Bengal Chief Minister, Mamta Banerjee, he said that the latter has offered to build a Punjabi Bhawan in Kolkata to be named after the first Sikh Master, Guru Nanak Dev, in addition to approving the proposal of declaring Punjabi as the second language in the state. Dr Jaspal Singh exhorted the lovers and scholars of Punjabi to be pro-active in making Punjabi the language of conversation at homes and in the offices by linking it up with economics, business and employment.


Cabinet Minister from Orissa, Bhupinder Singh Gill emphasized upon cultural and linguistic exchange programmes among various sections of the society and promoters of other languages in India and abroad, which would be tantamount to the enrichment of Punjabi. Vice-Chancellor of Rajiv Gandhi National University of Law, Dr P.S. Jaiswal said that a line should be drawn between passion and fanaticism for their furtherance and developing love towards each other’s mother tongues.

While referring to the dignity nursed by the Punjabis in themselves, he said that ‘Punjabis would never like to beggars’ despite facing ordeals, trials and tribulations in their lives. Chairman of Punjabi Society in Jharkhand, J.S. Chahal said that Punjabi should not be restricted to be spoken in Gurudwaras only lest it becomes the language only of Sikhs, instead of Punjabis.



Badal seeks prompt intervention of PM for Sarabjeet's release


Exploit all diplomatic channels for saving life of sarabjeet-cm to goi



New Delhi, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): Pun....
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Exploit all diplomatic channels for saving life of sarabjeet-cm to goi



New Delhi, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today sought the immediate intervention of Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh for bringing back Sarabjeet Singh to provide proper treatment to him after he was seriously injured in an attack by other prisoners in the Kot Lakhpat Rai Jail of Pakistan.


Talking to the media persons here today, the Chief Minister said that it was unfortunate that Sarabjeet Singh continues to be in coma and was on ventilator after being brutally attacked by other prisoners due to which it was the moral duty of the Union government to make all out efforts for his early release thereby saving his precious life. Badal said that it was the high time that the Prime Minister, Union Foreign Affairs Minister and Union Home Minister must exploit all the diplomatic channels for bringing back Sarabjeet from the Pakistan to ensure world class medical treatment to him. He said that immediate relief must be provided to Sarabjeet Singh on the humanitarian ground for saving his valuable life.


Expressing solidarity with the family of Sarabjeet Singh, the Chief Minister said that the state government was solidly with them in this hour of crisis. However Badal said that though there was hardly anything in the hands of the state government in the matters pertaining to the foreign affairs but then also the Punjab government appeals the Government of India (GoI) to take a prompt action for saving the life of Indian death row prisoner. He also said that observing the serious situation of Sarabjeet Singh, the national government of Pakistan should also take a lenient view towards him and take every step for ensuring his well being by providing quality treatment to him anywhere across the globe.


Earlier the Chief Minister also met the National President of BJP Rajnath Singh, National Conference leader and Union Minister Dr Farooq Abdullah and Samajwadi Party leader Mulayam Singh Yadav to express his gratitude for their unflinching support and solidarity with Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) on the issue of abolition of the Wealth Tax imposed by the Union government on the Agriculture land in the periphery of the urban areas.

Badal apprised these leaders that with their fulsome support and co-operation a pressure was mounted on the centre government due to which it was forced to withdraw this anti-farmer’s tax which would have otherwise crushed the distressed peasantry of the state besides putting the national food security in peril.
The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Special Principal Secretary Gaggandip Singh Brar and Resident Commissioner K Siva Prasad.



Security to individuals, criminals: HC notice to Punjab & Haryana


Chandigarh, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued notices to Punjab and Haryana in a PIL seeking withdra....
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Chandigarh, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued notices to Punjab and Haryana in a PIL seeking withdrawal of security being provided to individuals, who are facing criminal cases or who have been convicted in criminal cases.


A division bench of the HC comprising ACJ Jasbir Singh and Justice Rakesh Kumar Jain today issued notices for May 28 to States of Punjab and Haryana , in a PIL filed by Advocate H.C. Arora, seeking a direction to the respondents to withdraw the security of Police etc. provided to those individuals who are either facing some criminal cases or who have been convicted for some such offence.

The petitioner has contended that both the State Governments are providing security at State expense to such individuals, though they are facing serious criminal cases, like that of murder, rape, and corruption cases.
He has submitted that it is the victims of such crimes, or complainants who require security, but they are never provided such security except through the intervention of Courts. On the other hand the accused or convicts are enjoying such security at the expense of tax-payers which is not justified. Such security otherwise also send a wrong message to the society, as it amounts to intimidating the victims or complainants.

If at all some such individual has serious threat perception, he should be asked to pay the expenses of such security provided to him, otherwise his security should be withdrawn.
The petitioner produced the complete list of 41 individual protectees in Punjab, who are enjoying such security at State Government’s expense, though involved/convicted for criminal offences. They have been provided security of 167 security personnel, plus 2 sections of CRPF. Even monthly salary of a Constable deployed on security duty comes to Rs.42 thousand approximately, which means that more than Rs.9 crore is being spent on security of such 167 individuals, apart from the expenses on providing escort vehicles to them. Prominent persons who have been provided security in Punjab include Captain Amrinder Singh (57 personnel); Nirmal Singh Kahlon (10 personnel); Bibi Jagir Kaur (11 personnel); Baba Piara Singh Bhaniara wala (13 personnel plus 2 sections of CRPF); Naresh Kumar Sehgal, a journalist from Faridkot ( 9 personnel); and Vinay Jallandhari, President Shiv Saina Hindustan (4 personnel); Ashutosh Gautam, Akhil Bhartiya Hindu Suraksha Sammiti (3 personnel); Parminderjit Singh Pinki, MLA (4 PERSONNEL); Tarlochan Singh Soond MLA (4 personnel); Joginder pal Jain, MLA (4 PERSONNEL); Simranjit Singh Bains, MLA ( 4 personnel); and Raninder Singh (5 personnel); and Amrik Singh Dhillon, MLA (4 PERSONNEL).


Referring to Haryana, petitioner referred to names of Zile Ram Sharma, MLA, AND Om Parkash Jain, who are facing murder charges, but have been provided security of 4 and 7 police personnel respectively, plus escort vehicles. Besides, Ram Kumar, MLA is also enjoying security at cost of State Government, though facing rape charges.



Haryana reemploys Jagdish Chand DSP Telecome for one year


Chandigarh, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): Haryana government has re-employed Jagdish Chand, DSP/Telecom for a period of one year with effect ....
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Chandigarh, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): Haryana government has re-employed Jagdish Chand, DSP/Telecom for a period of one year with effect from 1.5.2013. This was disclosed by spokes person of Haryana Police here today.


He also said that During his service with Haryana Police he had implemented various Information and Communication Technology projects in the department and before his superannuation, he was monitoring the CCTNS project, a flagship program of Ministry of Home Affairs Government of India. Jagdish possesses commendable knowledge of IT and had been meticulously exercising his duties for proper monitoring of projects including coordination with associated stakeholders at State and Central Government Level.



INLD forms committee to decide candidates for MC polls

Chandigarh, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): The INLD) has formed a state level committee of 11 members today for the upcoming elections of Municipal ....
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Chandigarh, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): The INLD) has formed a state level committee of 11 members today for the upcoming elections of Municipal Corporations in Haryana. The committee will prepare the list of likely candidates.

Giving this information, party state president Ashok Arora said, “In order to expose the Hooda government’s wrongdoings, INLD’s senior leaders including former Vice-chancellor RS Chaudhary, state General secretary Ashok Sherwal, Ex MLA and INLD Distt. president Fatehabad, Sardar Nishan Singh has been given the responsibilities of party’s spokesmen.”


Arora said that, “The committee of 11 members for MC’s elections includes Ex Agricultue Minister Sardar Jaswinder Singh Sandhu, MP Rajya Sabha Ranbir Singh Prajapati, MLA from Israna Krishan Panwar, MLA from Kalka Pradeep Chaudhary, Safidon MLA Shri Kaliram Patwari, Radaur MLA Shri Bishan Lal Saini, Ex Minister Mohammad Iliyas, Ex MLA from fatehabad Swatantar Bala Chaudhary, Party’s National General Secretary Brij Sharma, INLD SC cell state president Baldev Balmiki and INLD state treasurer Paras Mittal.”


He revealed that committee members will prepare a list of likely candidates for the elections after discussing with the party’s local leaders, workers and District in-charge. Arora said that party has all set to participate in the elections of Municipal Corporations and candidates with clean image and party's loyal will be introduced. He said that public is now fed up with the corrupt and worthless Hooda government and just wanted to get rid of as soon as possible.


He said that all development works is remained stalled in the state and CM Hooda is just trying to befool the public by his false announcements. He said, “Once the election dates will be announced, the party leaders will visit all the endowed municipal wards and will expose Hooda government. Today, Hooda government has become puppet in the hands of property dealers and land grabbers and the government has nothing to do with the common people.”



7 SSPs among 27 Police officers of Punjab transferred (PDF attached)

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh,May 1:In a major administrative reshuffle, Punjab government on wednesday transferred of 27 ....
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 By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh,May 1:In a major administrative reshuffle, Punjab government on wednesday transferred of 27 police officers including 7 SSPs.


Hardyal Singh Mann SSP Fatehgarh Sahib has been given charge as SSP Patiala, Gurpreet Singh Gill SSP Patiala as Commandant 36thBn PAP, Bahadurgarh, Patiala, Harcharan Singh Bhullar SSP Sangrur as Commandant 4thCommando Bn., Mohali, Gurpreet Singh Toor SSP Faridkot as Zonal AIG CID Ludhiana, Sukhdev Singh Kahlon SSP Fazilka as SP Crime-1 Punjab Chd.

Mr. Sanjiv Gupta, IPS has been posted as DGP Prison Reforms, Chandigarh, Mr. S.K.Asthana, IPS as IGP/V&S, Pb. Power com Chd, Mr. Ishwar Chander, IPS as IGP Border Zone Amritsar, Mr. B.Chandrashekhar, IPS as IGP Zonal-II Pb Jalandhar, Mr. Gurpreet Deo, IPS as IGP Training-cum-Addl.Director MRS, PPA Phillaur, Mr. R.P.Mittal, IPS as IGP Commando Bn., Bahadurgarh, Mr. Tehal Singh Dhaliwal, IPS as IGP IVC. Punjab, Chd, Mr. Rakesh Chandra, IPS as IGP Security-II, Chd, Mr. Mohnish Chawla, IPS as DIG Ferozepur (CDC), Mr. Pramod Ban, IPS as DIG Spl Protection Unit Pb. Chd, Mr. L.K.Yadav, IPS as DIG Investigation/Crime Wing, Pb Chd, Mr. Gurmeet Singh Randhawa, IPS as SSP Faridkot. Mr. Harsh Kumar Bansal, IPS as DCP Ludhiana and Mr. Paramvir Singh Parmar, IPS as Commandant 1st IRB, Patiala.
Mr. Gurmeet Singh Chauhan, PPS has been posted as SSP Fatehgarh Sahib, Mr. Hardyal Singh Mann, PPS as SSP Patiala, Mr. Gurpreet Singh Gill, PPS as Commandant 36th Bn PAP, Bahadurgarh, Patiala, Mr. Mandeep Singh Sandhu, PPS as SSP Sangrur, Mr. Sukhwant Singh Gill, PPS as SSP Gurdaspur, Mr. Harcharan Singh Bhullar, PPS as Commandant 4th Commando Bn., Mohali, Mr. Jaspreet Singh Sidhu, PPS as DCP, Jalandhar, Mr. Sarabjit Singh, PPS as Commandant 75th Bn., PAP, Jalandhar, Mr. Gurpreet Singh Toor, PPS as Zonal AIG CID Ludhiana, Mr. Manmohan Singh, PPS as SSP Amritsar Rural, Mr. Rakesh Kumar Kaushal, PPS as Commandant 3rd Commando Bn., Mohali, Mr. Sukhdev Singh Kahlon, PPS as SP Crime-1 Punjab Chd and Mr. Rajpal Singh, PPS as SSP Fazilka.



Punjab goes for online admissions in ITIs


Chandigarh, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab Government has decided to start online admissions in the ITIs from current academic sessi....
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Chandigarh, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab Government has decided to start online admissions in the ITIs from current academic session.

Anil Joshi, Technical Education and Industrial Training Minister, Punjab today held a meeting of the all principals of ITIs of the state to finalise the modalities of online admission process.


The Minister further said that the government has also to introduce semester system in the ITIs. He said that the ITIs have been told to launch new trades in the session 2013-14 under IDP scheme to facilitate the students getting better opportunities for employment. Joshi directed ITIs to approach quality council of India to get the trades affiliated. He also reviewed the machinery being brought for the new trades.


The Minister also asked the principals to get in touch with industries to ensure more and more placement of the students besides conducting workshops to enhance the personality and communication skills of the students, He said that within the period of one year 700 new posts have been created/revejunated. "145 allied trade instructors, mechanical instructors and fitters, who have been working on contract basis are being regularized within week", said the minister. Prominent who were present in the meeting included A. R. Talwar, Principal Secretary, B. Purusartha, director, Mrs. Daljit kaur, additional director ITIs.



Three Haryana IAS officers gets additional charge


Chandigarh, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): Haryana Government has given additional charge to three IAS officers with immediate effect.
....
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Chandigarh, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau): Haryana Government has given additional charge to three IAS officers with immediate effect.


Chander Parkash, Commissioner, Gurgaon Division, Gurgaon, Special Commissioner, Health and Nutrition, Mewat Area, Gurgaon, Chairman, Mewat Development Agency and assisting Dr.N.C.Saxena, who has been appointed Commissioner by Supreme Court of India in PUCL Vs Union of India and Others has been given the additional charge of Commissioner, Rohtak Division, Rohtak during the leave period of Mrs.Suprabha Dahiya.


.M.L.Kaushik, Special Secretary, Forests Department and Deputy Commissioner, Jind has been given the additional charge of Deputy Commissioner, Hisar and Commissioner, MC, Hisar during the training period of Amit Kumar Aggarwal.
Phool Chand Meena, Deputy Commissioner, Gurgaon and Chief Administrator, Shree Mata Sheetla Devi Shrine Board, Gurgaon will also look after the work of Commissioner, MC, Gurgaon during the training period of Ashok Sangwan.



Kurukshetra University extends B.Ed & D.Ed admission by May 31

Chandigarh, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau) Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra has extended the last date of submission of examination forms for B.Ed a....
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Chandigarh, May 1 (babushahi.com bureau) Kurukshetra University, Kurukshetra has extended the last date of submission of examination forms for B.Ed and D.Ed examinations to be organized on June or July 2013 by May 31, 2013 with late fee of Rs 5000.



BSF sleuths returns to Pak-Rangers 16-year-old young girl Sidhra



By HARISH DIDO

Ferozepur, May 1: Despite the fact that Pakistan refused to own Kasab involved IN 26/11 attack and did ....
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By HARISH DIDO

Ferozepur, May 1: Despite the fact that Pakistan refused to own Kasab involved IN 26/11 attack and did not eve claim his dead body but they have taken the revenge by brutal attack on Sarbjit Singh in Kot Lakhpat Jail in Pakistan. No doubt the relations between these two countries are better but Indians still have human values and its best example is when 16-year-old young Sidhra, who crossed over to Indian Territory, safely to Pakistan Rangers.



As per the information, on Tuesday morning at about 7 AM, the BSF sleuths saw one young girl crossing the Indian Territory near the BOP Rana, Pillar No.223 in Fazilka Sector. The young girl had crossed about 100 meters in Indian Territory when she was arrested and during the preliminary investigation, she disclosed her name as Sidhra daughter of Sirag Mian of villge Chilli Sau, District Kasur, Pakistan. She further disclosed the reason of a dispute with her father.



After thorough verification and cross-checking with the Pakistan Rangers, the girl was handed over the Pakistan Rangers as a gesture of good-will.



India must take strong step to desist Pakistan &China: TP Bakshi



By HARISH DIDO

Ferozepur, May 1: Expressing deep concern over the anti-India activities of Pakistan and China, the A....
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By HARISH DIDO

Ferozepur, May 1: Expressing deep concern over the anti-India activities of Pakistan and China, the Anti Crime and Social Services Organistion (ACSSO) in its meeting, held under the leadership of T.P.Bakshi, National President, demanded that India should initiate strong step to stop the same.

He said, “In 1962 China attacked India despite saying Hindi-Chini Bhai Bhai. Similarly, Pakistan also with two time defeat, is not refraining from doing something undesirable. Every citizen of India is concerned about the anti-India activities of Pakistan andChina but our government is only concerned with its existence.”



He further said, “No doubt the Pakistan has not awarded the death sentence to Sarbjit Singh but has managed the brutal attack on him in the Kot Lakhpat Jail. Even the China has also entered the India Terrority . Since both Pakistan and China are not desisting from their anti-India activities, the Indian Government must take a strong step to curb it.”



Giving a warning to the government, the leaders of the ACSSO, to take immediate action to stop the anti-India activities otherwise the orgnaisation will start its own campaign for which the responsibility will be that of the government. On this occasion, Ashok Goyal, Shamsher Singh, Harpreet Singh, Vinod Gakhar, Dinesh Monga, Amrik Singh, Kuldip Singh and others were present.



US Sikh Leaders Express Dismay at Sajjan Kumar's acquittal from 1984 Anti-Sikh Violence Charges

Washington, May 1 (Babushahi.com bureau) : US Sikh leaders expressed their dismay and shock at the acquittal of Sajjan Kumar from the 1984 Anti-Sikh v....
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Washington, May 1 (Babushahi.com bureau) : US Sikh leaders expressed their dismay and shock at the acquittal of Sajjan Kumar from the 1984 Anti-Sikh violence and murders of many Sikhs.



Dr. Rajwant Singh, Chairman of the Sikh Council on Religion and Education, said, "It is shocking to see Sajjan Kumar being acquitted by the court. This certainly sends a wrong message that the legal system in India is not just. It has become obvious that India’s legal and investigative work by governmental bodies lacks transparency. Guilty people like Sajjan Kumar, Jagdish Tytler and many others, who organized the pogroms of 1984, can roam around free without feeling the weight of justice even after so many years and after series of governments in the center.



Sajjan ’umar's acquittal should be a matter of concern for all Indians not just the Sikhs. Justice must prevail in the nation especially when the evidence is overwhelming and when thousands of country’s citizens were murdered and many were left homeless. What message this justice system sends to the future would be perpetrator of this kind of heinous crimes in the nation? India must rise to this challenge while it is trying to move forward to improve its own governance. History will judge its leaders harshly if they do not act to correct the wrongs. "



Dr. Jasbir Singh Kang, an active Sikh leader in California and a founding member of Punjabi American Heritage Society, said, "Today’s decision is not about one person (Sajjan Kumar), but rather about the justice process of largest democracy of world. If murderers can become elected members of the parliament (temple of democracy) then how ordinary citizens can trust that institution? Where is the conscious of average Indian, why are they putting up with this kind of injustice? 29 years have passed by and still no justice in sight for thousands of victims."



Dr. Rajwant Singh added, "Any nation cannot afford to alienate its minorities and Sikhs are feeling that justice is one sided. Time requires Supreme Court’s intervention to restore faith in the nation’s legal system. It is a shame that after the brutal violence against so many Sikhs, no one has been found guilty in the last 29 years. It is equally disconcerting that even non-Congress governments in the center failed to act decisively to hand justice to the 1984 victims of Anti-Sikh violence."

He exhorted all Indians by saying, "We appeal to the Indian intelligentsia, press and all the social thinkers to add their voice in this protest. Their silence is often too loud."



Haryana Government has given additional charge to three IAS officers.

Chandigarh, May 1(babushahi.com bureau) – Haryana Government has given additional charge to three IAS officers with immediate effect.

Mr.C....
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Chandigarh, May 1(babushahi.com bureau) – Haryana Government has given additional charge to three IAS officers with immediate effect.

Mr.Chander Parkash, Commissioner, Gurgaon Division, Gurgaon, Special Commissioner, Health and Nutrition, Mewat Area, Gurgaon, Chairman, Mewat Development Agency and assisting Dr.N.C.Saxena, who has been appointed Commissioner by Supreme Court of India in PUCL Vs Union of India and Others has been given the additional charge of Commissioner, Rohtak Division, Rohtak during the leave period of Mrs.Suprabha Dahiya.

Mr.M.L.Kaushik, Special Secretary, Forests Department and Deputy Commissioner, Jind has been given the additional charge of Deputy Commissioner, Hisar and Commissioner, MC, Hisar during the training period of Mr.Amit Kumar Aggarwal.

Mr.Phool Chand Meena, Deputy Commissioner, Gurgaon and Chief Administrator, Shree Mata Sheetla Devi Shrine Board, Gurgaon will also look after the work of Commissioner, MC, Gurgaon during the training period of Mr.Ashok Sangwan.



Badal calls on Sharad Pawar to seek his support for rolling back wealth tax

New Delhi, April 30- Patron of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today called on the Nationalist Congress Par....
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New Delhi, April 30- Patron of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal today called on the Nationalist Congress Party President and Union Agriculture Minister Mr Sharad Pawar to enlist his unstinted support to mobilize the public opinion against the Government of India (GoI) for rolling back the draconian Wealth Tax forthwith.




The Chief Minister called Mr Pawar at his office in the Parliament House this morning and solicited whole hearted support and co-operation to persuade the GoI to immediately withdraw the wealth tax on agriculture without any further delay otherwise it could lead to an uncontrollable situation of nationwide social unrest, anarchy and resentment especially amongst the farmers and several other stakeholders directly or indirectly associated with the agriculture profession including farm labour, small and marginal traders and Arthiyaas. Mr Badal pointed that nearly 70% of the Agricultural land in Punjab would come under the ambit of this senseless act which was hell bent upon to crush the agrarian economy of the country in general and especially that of Punjab in particular thereby putting the national food security in quandary. He urged the NCP Chief to bail out the peasantry in this hour of crisis by mounting pressure on the Centre to withdraw this tax imposed on Agricultural land as it would have far reaching implications of leading the entire nation to the brink of economic disaster.




The Chief Minister apprised Mr Pawar that Raja Chelliah committee on Tax reforms had recommended to levy wealth tax on non-productive assets adding that the Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh who was the then Union Finance Minister in 1992, in his budget speech had underlined that Wealth Tax should be levied on individuals, Hindu Undivided Families and all companies only in respect of non-productive assets such residential houses including farm houses and urban land, jewellery, bullion, motor cars, planes, boats and yachts which were used for commercial purposes.




Appreciating the concern of Mr Badal to abolish the Wealth Tax the Union Agriculture Minister told him that he would certainly look into the matter to ensure justice to the farming community and other related stakeholders in the larger national interest.
Earlier the Chief Minister also called the CPM leader Mr Basu Deb Acharya, Shiv Sena Leader Mr Sanjay Raut and Anant Geete and Telugu Desam Leader Mr Nageshwar Rao to garner their support over this issue. Mr Badal urged these leaders to vehemently oppose this ill-conceived and unwarranted move of the Union government to impose wealth tax on agriculture land. He was confident of positive outcome of these meetings with various leaders of national and regional parties, which would go a long way in protecting the rights of the farming community.




All these leaders offered fulsome support and co-operation to Mr Badal for this national cause.The Chief Minister was accompanied by his Special Principal Secretary Mr Gaggandip Singh Brar and Resident Commissioner Mr K Sivaprasad






(JL/jR)



Badal politicizing the issue of Wealth Tax, to divert attention from the burning issues facing Punjab : Sukhpal Khaira

Chandigarh, April 30 (Gagandeep Sohal): Instead of taking timely action on the issue of Wealth Tax, when first assessment notices of the Income Tax d....
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Chandigarh, April 30 (Gagandeep Sohal): Instead of taking timely action on the issue of Wealth Tax, when first assessment notices of the Income Tax department were served to the two Akali Nagra brothers in 1999-2000, Sh. Badal is now raising a hue and cry and politicizing the issue to garner votes, least of all its resolution. It is a matter of record that while NDA headed by Sh. Vajpayee ruled at the Centre from 1999-2004, Sh. Badal was very much the CM of Punjab from 1997-2002, then why Sh. Badal failed to take up the issue of Wealth Tax with the PM?




Congress refreshes the fading memory of Sh. Badal, that when I-T assessment notices were sent to the Nagra brothers during the NDA regime at the Centre and his govt. in Punjab, why an emergency session of the Vidhan Sabha was not convened by him to oppose this anti-farmer move? Had Sh. Badal and Sh. Vajpayee dealt with the issue at that very time, the Nagra brothers would not have lost from the High Court as well as the Supreme Court, nor would have the recovery proceedings begun against them.




Needless to mention, Sh. Partap Singh Bajwa President PPCC has already met the FM Sh. Chidambaram alongwith a delegation of MP’s, who has assured dropping of the controversial clause from the amendment proposed in the Finance Bill 2013.




It is saddening to note that Sh. Badal never cared to call a special session of the to debate the burning issues facing Punjab such as collapse of law and order with spates of killings of gazetted police officers in uniform, rapes of women in Punjab, Akali goons and ‘Jathedars’ ruling the roost by taking over police stations and the civil administration of the state. Neither did the CM bother to call a special session for the critical financial situation with a debt of over Rs. 80,000 crore on Punjab or for over 5000 road accident deaths annually in the state.




Therefore, the Congress advises the CM not to make a ‘mountain out of a mole’, stop arousing passions and whipping up sentiments on this sensitive issue but instead approach the govt. through appropriate official channels to resolve the matter.






(Jl/JR)



Petrol price cut by Rs 3 per litre from midnight tonight

New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): For the third time in a month, Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) on Tuesday slashed the price of petrol by Rs....
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New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): For the third time in a month, Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) on Tuesday slashed the price of petrol by Rs 3 per litre in line with the decline in international crude oil prices.




The new price will come into effect from midnight tonight and petrol prices in Delhi will now cost Rs 63.09 per litre. The price of oil is trading above USD 94 per barrel as positive US economic data added to optimism for a rate cut in Europe.




Brent crude, which is used to price oil from the North Sea used by many US refiners, is also up 24 cents to USD 103.40 on the ICE Futures exchange in London. Petrol price was cut by Re 1 per litre on 15 April. Earlier petrol price was slashed by 85 paise a litre reduction in rates on April 2 and Rs 2 a litre decrease effected on March 16. The March 16 cut after including VAT translated into a Rs 2.40 a litre reduction at pumps. It was the steepest cut in nine months.





(Jl/jR)



CBI should be liberated from political interference: SC

New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): In a damning indictment, the Supreme Court today said CBI's act of sharing the status report on Coalgate w....
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New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): In a damning indictment, the Supreme Court today said CBI's act of sharing the status report on Coalgate with the government has "shaken" the entire investigation process and vowed to "liberate" the agency from political influence and interference.




Notwithstanding some strong words, the Supreme Court's observations and directions in the coal blocks allocation scam came as a breather for the beleaguered government as the CBI Director has been given time till May six to file a fresh affidavit in the case.
The matter will come up for hearing on May eight. At the end of a two-hour hearing, the court sought a series of clarifications from CBI Director Ranjit Sinha "as to why in the status report dated March 8, 2013, no disclosure was made to the court that the draft report has been shared with the political executive".




It also wanted to how Additional Solicitor General Haren Raval had made an assertive statement on March 12 that the status report was not shared with anyone. At the outset, the bench also comprising justices Madan B Lokur and Kurien Joseph said the CBI Director's affidavit has brought out a "very disturbing feature" and the "very foundation of the investigation process has been shaken".




"The first thing we have to do is to liberate CBI from extranesous considerations, political influence, intrusions and other interference," the bench said.
The court said that even after 15 years of Vineet Narain judgement to make CBI independent, the political clout still "frustrates" its impartiality. "When this court had said in an unequivocal term that investigation has to be uninfluenced and without interference. That strong foundation is shaking". "The fact is that this court said that you should be free from interferences as an investigator. You have to be independent, unbiased and you don't have to take any instruction from political master," the bench said.




The bench which questioned the CBI for sharing its probe report with the government in a serious allegation of corruption, said it showed "total erosion of trust" the court has reposed in the agency. "You don't have to move with the crutches of political executive," it said, adding, "What we have to do in the situation as it has shaken the entire sonscience." ASG Raval was replaced by senior advocate U U Lalit to represent the CBI in the matter which has been described as "very serious matter" by the bench.
The CBI Director in his fresh affidavit will have to give details of the "manual and guidelines" on the issue of sharing of status report in cases in which reports are called for by the courts.








(JL/jR)



LS completes budgetary exercise without debate

New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Govt ruled out imposition of wealth tax on agriculture land as the LS completed the budgetary exercise in ....
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New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Govt ruled out imposition of wealth tax on agriculture land as the LS completed the budgetary exercise in an unusual way with Finance Bill and Demands for Grants for various ministries being passed without debate after Opp walkout.




Finance Minister P Chidambaram also exempted Railways from payment of service tax for period between 1st July 2010 to 1st October 2012 to avoid burden on the state-owned carrier. Making a brief statement while moving the Finance Bill for voting on Tuesday, he introduced an amendment on the issue of wealth tax in view of misapprehensions as to whether it will apply to agriculture land.





"There was apprehension that wealth tax was being imposed on agricultural land. Let me make it absolutely clear that the policy of the UPA government is not to impose wealth tax on agriculture land," he said.




The apprehensions arose on account of judgements following Punjab and Haryana High Court rulings, Chidambaram said, adding he had worked hard on Monday to prepare the amendment and obtain the approval of the President and "the matter should come to an end."

The passage of the General and Railway budgets was rushed through as the guillotine had to applied to meet the constitutional requirements. BJP staged walk out over the coal issue, while Left, BJD and AIADMK left the House to protest against passage of important bills without discussion. DMK too walked out demanding removal of the JPC chief P C Chacko.




After the walkout, Speaker Meira Kumar said the passage of crucial bills without debate was being done in a very difficult condition and it was immensely painful for her. The Speaker said: "The circumstances are such that we have to dispense with discussion and pass these bills." As regards other changes in the Finance Bill, Chidambaram said the government is seeking authorisation to raise customs duty on cashew to 70 percent with a view to protecting the domestic industry. "We are taking ...a tariff cushion to raise the import duty from 30 per cent to 70 per cent so that, if necessary, we can impose a higher duty on imported cashew," he said.




Referring to the proposal to impose Commodities Transaction Tax (CTT) on non-agriculture items, he said, "Trading in commodity derivatives will no longer be considered as a speculative transaction." The Minister also announced changes in the tax laws to attract foreign investments. "In order to attract investment in long term infrastructure bond, I propose to amend Section 194(H)C so that foreign currency routed through designated account by NRI in such bonds is deemed to be borrowing in such currency," the Minister said.




He clarified that PAN requirement and consequently higher withholding tax of 20 percent will not apply to interest paid to non-resident in respect of investment in long-term infrastructure bonds. "These amendments will attract more investments in long-term infrastructure which is a very important need of the country," he said.




On the proposal to impose Tax Deducted at Source (TDS) of one percent on transfer of immovable property, Chidambaram said the person requiring to deduct tax would not be required to obtain TAN (Tax Deduction and Collection Account Number). "...in order to be helpful to the person who is required to deduct the tax, we are dispensing with the requirement of obtaining a TAN. He need not have a TAN but he must deduct the tax," he said.




Chidambaram said he had rectified the provisions relating to one percent tax on cash sale of bullion or jewellery to prevent misuse of the provisions of the IT Act. "There was an exclusion in parenthesis (of coin or article weighing less than 10 gms)...that exclusion was giving opportunity for misuse. That exclusion has now been withdrawn," he said.




Later talking to reporters, Chidambaram said changes have been made to make it clear that Tax Residency Certificate (TRC) issued by a foreign government will be accepted as a certificate of residence. "Additional information can also be asked by the government but the TRC issued by a foreign government will be accepted as a certificate of residence," he said.

The proposal in Finance Bill 2012 had created uncertainty among foreign investors, especially those routing investments through Mauritius. The Minister had earlier clarified that the status quo with regard to investment from Mauritius would continue till the double taxation avoidance agreement with that country is revised.




Referring to demand for removal of higher duty on SUVs, Chidambaram said the proposed increase is very small. "98 per cent of SUVs run on diesel. Diesel is subsidised. So by increasing the duty from 27 per cent to 30 per cent, we are only partially recovering (the subsidy)...from rich people who use SUVs," he explained.






(JL/jR)



Sarbajit Singh's condition deteriorates, India in constant touch with Pak

New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Government today asserted that Sarabjit will get best medical treatment and New Delhi is constantly in tou....
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New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Government today asserted that Sarabjit will get best medical treatment and New Delhi is constantly in touch with Islamabad to help him. Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde said this on a sideline of a function in New Delhi organised by Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India. Meanwhile, doctors treating Indian death row convict Sarbajit Singh, in a hospital Lahore in Pakistan after a brutal assault has said his condition has deteriorated though he had not been declared brain dead.




Allama Iqbal Medical College principal Mahmood Shaukat, the head of a four-member medical board this is supervising Sarabjit's treatment, confirmed that his condition had deteriorated. Sarabjit is in a special intensive care unit of the state-run Jinnah Hospital.Shaukat said top neurosurgeons and physicians are providing Sarabjit the best treatment to save his life.







The doctors had changed some medications after the deterioration in his condition. A second CT scan on Sarabjit too did not reveal any signs of improvement, he said.






(JL/jR)



Additional Solicitor General Harin Rawal quits

New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Additional Solicitor General Haren Raval resigned from the post in the wake of the controversy over his st....
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New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Additional Solicitor General Haren Raval resigned from the post in the wake of the controversy over his statement in the Supreme Court that the CBI probe report was not shared with anyone.Raval, who was replaced as the CBI counsel in the crucial hearing today, handed over his resignation to Law Minister Ashwani Kumar in the evening. The resignation of Raval came a day after he blamed Attorney General of influencing the CBI probe into the allotment of coal blocks. In a letter to Attorney General Rawal he alleged besides coal scam, the attorney general's shadow could be deciphered in other scam related investigations by the CBI .





(JL/jR)



IRS Binod Kumar appointed CVO in NHPC New Delhi

New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Govt. of India has appointed Binod Kumar, IRS (IT-83) as CVO in the National Hydro Power Corporation Limit....
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New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Govt. of India has appointed Binod Kumar, IRS (IT-83) as CVO in the National Hydro Power Corporation Limited (NHPC), New Delhi.





(JL/jR)



IAS Chandra Shekhar confirmed in State Cadre of Jharkhand

New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Govt. of India has confirmed Chandra Shekhar, member of the Indian Administrative Service borne on the Sta....
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New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Govt. of India has confirmed Chandra Shekhar, member of the Indian Administrative Service borne on the State Cadre of Jharkhand of 2008 batch, in the Indian Administrative Service, with effect from 01.09.2010.





(JL/jR)



IPS Om Prakash Galhotra gets extension as Joint Director CBI

New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Govt. of India has extended the Central deputation tenure of Om Prakash Galhotra, IPS (RJ-85) as Joint Dir....
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New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Govt. of India has extended the Central deputation tenure of Om Prakash Galhotra, IPS (RJ-85) as Joint Director in the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for a period of two years from 07.05.2013 i.e. upto 06.05.2015.





(JL/jR)



IFS Gautam Mukhopadhaya to be next Ambassador of India to Myanmar

New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Govt. of India has appointed Gautam Mukhopadhaya (IFS: 1980) as the next Ambassador of India to the Republ....
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New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Govt. of India has appointed Gautam Mukhopadhaya (IFS: 1980) as the next Ambassador of India to the Republic of the Union of Myanmar. He is expected to take up his assignment shortly.





(JL/jR)



Wealth Tax: Victory for farmers snatched from the jaws of congress, says Badal

New Delhi/Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today described the Government of India’s decisi....
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New Delhi/Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today described the Government of India’s decision to roll back wealth tax on agriculture land as “Victory for farmers snatched from the jaws of the Congress and of defeat” through immense, unrelenting and all round pressure brought to bear on an insensitive government which continued to play games with the farmers and their well wishers it was forced to yield to the SAD-BJP and the farmers demand.”The Congress strategy was to deny, confuse, distract and finally wear down the beleaguered peasantry, but of it failed in the presence of the determined die-or-die approach of the farmers and their supporters, “ said the Chief Minister in a statement released at the his press conference here this evening.




The Chief Minister said that he had been deeply pained by the lowly tactics adopted by some of the most seniors members of the Congress party, resorting to deceit, subterfuge and brazen lies at the highest forum of democracy. They played politics with the sentiments of the suffering peasantry and farm labour. But for the whole hearted lent to the cause of the farmers, the Congress would have inflicted this disastrous blow on the nation in general and peasantry in particular, said the CM.




Saying that the developments in the parliament today had finally let the Congress cat out of the bag, but the Congress leaders were pretending to rejoice over their own defeat. This is the typical Congress double speak at its very best,” said Mr. Badal reacting to the decision of the government announced in the parliament that their decision to impose wealth tax on agricultural land – a productive asset - to




Asked about the dharnas against wealth tax scheduled by the SAD-BJP in Punjab for May 2, Badal said that these had been postponed as “ we have achieved the objectives for which these were planned. It is victory at last. “ The Chief Minister congratulated the farmers and their supporters on their victory but sounded a note of caution against the designs of the anti-farmer and anti-poor Congress party . He said that the farming community and their sympathizers and supports must be vigilant against “ premature celebrations “ Though the anti-farmer forces, lobbies and party have been forced to retreat yet we have to be watchful because the Congress has a habit playing dirty games till the very last moment.




Badal was joined at the press conference by the SAD president and Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal who lashed out at the Congress for its deliberate efforts to break the back of the peasantry. The Congress wanted to punish the farmers as they invariably vote against its anti-farmer policies.



Sukhbir Singh was particularly severe on the PPCC leadership for what he called their “ determined bid to sabotage our efforts to win justice for farmers. Their line of action itself revealed how the Congress leadership in Punjab had tried to sabotage it . They first completely denied the existence of the problem and later, faced with, they sought to take undeserved credit for a decision taken against their declared stand. “




The dominant feeling in the SAD-BJP today was one of triumph, satisfaction and happiness, according to Mr. Harcharan Bains, Chief Minister’s Advisor on National Affairs. He said that to be absolutely sure that no further mischief is played with the interests of the farmers, the SAD-BJP alliance would await the details of the Congress’ complete U-turn on the question. “We have to look at the legal and constitutional fine-print of various clauses in the amendment in the concerned Act to make sure that no further mischief was being played by the government with the farmers,” he said.




Sukhbir Singh said that the role played by the PPCC president Mr. Partap Singh Bajwas in the whole Congress drama was not only intriguing but even pathetic. Mr. Bajwa had gone on record sadyng tha the SAD-BJP were merely enacting a political tamasha as wealth tax on agriculture land simply did not exist. “May I ask him why were they running up and down in Delhi and what he was doing in Delhi in getting his PR photographs clicked with the central leaders, if wealth tax was indeed no issue? May I also ask him if SAD-BJP were turning a non-issue into an issue, what is the Congress and Mr. Bajwa now claiming credit for ? These PPCC leader were now standing unabashed in the first row to take credit for the victory of the farmers and of the SAD-BJP.’




“One has to be a little “unabashed” in one’s approach to claim credit for something that they had been opposing earlier. But being unabashed is the Unique Selling Point of the Congress party, especially of its Punjab unity.” Mr. Badal said that the PPCC chief Partaps Singh Bajwas was in the most pathetic and ridiculous plight , as he woke up only when the SAD-BJP and the farmers had already pushed the center to the wall. “Bajwa’s other problem is Captain Amarinder Singh as the PPCC chief is always insecure about his hold on his job.”




Badal said that he did not mind who got the credit as long as “our work gets done. Let them take credit for getting us Chandigarh, river waters, punishment against the guilty of 1984 and compensation for long years of concession given to neigbouring states. I will personally honour them for their contribution to the state if they secure justice for the people for the state,”Mr. Badal. Badal said that he was particularly amused over the plight of Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa, the PPCC president , those who first denied any decision of the central government to impose wealth tax on agriculture land and later claimed credit for the farmers’ victory. “This is indeed a victory of the farmers , but a victory over whom, Mr. Bajwa. Ask the farmers. They will tell you whom they were fighting against. Their fight was against the Congress led UPA government. “




The Chief Minister today congratulated the farmers and millions of others engaged agriculture-linked professions in Punjab and the rest of the country in forcing forcing the Congress-led UPA government to roll back its disastrous and irrational decision to impose wealth tax on agriculture lands in the state and the rest of the country. The Chief Minister said that his dominant feeling at the moment was one of big relief as the center had finally realized the utter folly and cynical opportunism of its decision on wealth tax on agricultural land.”




Badal however said that the center’s decision finally to bow before the surge of angry and deeply hurt farmers and to agree to rollback wealth tax has put the PPCC leaders in an extremely ridiculous, embarrassing and pitiable condition. I said that the PPCC chief Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa, who has turned his habit of speaking with his proverbial foot in the mouth, has a lot of explaining to do to the people for his earlier remarks that there was no wealth tax on agriculture land and that the SAD-BJP were merely misleading the people by turning a non-issue into an item of agitational politics. “May one ask Mr Bajwa if the Act on Wealth Tax did not exist, what was the government now going to amend?Mr. Badal said here today that with the Congress led UPA government at the Center finally bowing to pressure from the farmers and their champions.




(JL/jR)



Punjab goes for online admissions in ITIs : Joshi

Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab Government has decided to start online admissions in the ITIs from current academic session. M....
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Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab Government has decided to start online admissions in the ITIs from current academic session. Mr. Anil Joshi, Technical Education and Industrial Training Minister, Punjab today held a meeting of the all principals of ITIs of the state to finalise the modalities of online admission process.




The Minister further said that the government has also to introduce semester system in the ITIs. He said that the ITIs have been told to launce new trades in the session 2013-14 under IDP scheme to facilitate the students getting better opportunities for employment. Mr. Joshi directed ITIs to approach quality council of India to get the trades affiliated. He also reviewed the machinery being brought for the new trades.




The Minister also asked the principals to get in touch with industries to ensure more and more placement of the students besides conducting workshops to enhance the personality and communication skills of the students, He said that within the period of one year 700 new posts have been created/revejunated. "145 allied trade instructors, mechanical instructors and fitters, who have been working on contract basis are being regularized within week", said the minister. Prominent who were present in the meeting included Mr. A. R. Talwar, Principal Secretary, Mr. B. Purusartha, director, Mrs. Daljit kaur, additional director ITIs.






(JL/jR)



Sukhbir expresses shock over Sajjan’s acquittal-hopes SC would order reinvestigation

Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Sukhbir Singh Badal, President Shiromani Akali Dal and Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab today expressed shoc....
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Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Sukhbir Singh Badal, President Shiromani Akali Dal and Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab today expressed shock and anguish at the acquittal of Congress leader Sajjan Kumar in 1984 Sikh carnage case and expressed hope that Supreme Court of India would take cognizance of this blatant denial of Justice to the families of 3000 Sikh victims and order reinvestigation as done in the case of Jagdish Tytler.





In a statement issued here today Mr. Badal said that it was the most unfortunate that a glimmer of hope for justice 29 years after biggest massacre of the century got dashed due to open complicity of Delhi Police, CBI and their mentor Congress Party. He said that it was ironical for biggest democracy of the country that the judgment came on a day when CBI itself admitted in the Apex Court that they get the crucial files vetted by the Congress Ministers especially which Congress leaders were accused. Mr. Badal said that whole Congress leadership was bent upon safeguarding 10 Janpath as any custodial interrogation of Sajjan and Tytler would expose the hand of 10 Janpath in this massacre. He said that both these architects of massacre were being protected just to safeguard the First Family interest in this massacre. He said that Shiromani Akali Dal would not allow Congress Party to put a lid on this biggest ever massacre and would continue to fight till all culprits including Sajjan and Tytler were given exemplary punishment.




Calling upon all political parties to come forward to expose the killer face of Congress Party by supporting the just cause of Sikhs, Mr. Badal said that all parties were rising above the caste and community considerations should join hands with Shiromani Akali Dal as denial of justice to the victims of more than 3000 Sikhs killed in the capital of India would raise a question mark on the credibility of democratic and Judicial system of the country.




(Jl/jR)



Mohali police nabs 2 accused persons with one and half kg charas


Mohali, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): As part of the drive to check drug peddling in the district, CIA Staff Mohali and Police of Phase-8 I....
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Mohali, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): As part of the drive to check drug peddling in the district, CIA Staff Mohali and Police of Phase-8 Industrial area Mohali has succeeded in nabbing 2 accused persons with one and half kg charas in possession alongwith one Tata Sumo bearing registration No. HP-33E-9288. The Police Party got a tip off that Jatinder Singh and Sanjeev Kumar residents of Himachal Pradesh used to sell charas and today also they are coming via Bariali Nadi to Mohali to sell charas to their customers. On the basis of tip off the above mentioned tata sumo was stopped and checked and recovered one and half kg charas . After the recovery a case FIR No. 99 dated 29.4.13 u/s 22/61/85 NDPS Act PS Phase-1 Mohali registered against above mentioned persons and duly arrested them. Charas recovered and vehicle in which it was being carried taken into Police custody. Arrested persons identified as Jatinder Singh s/o Dalip Singh aged about 35 years and Sanjeev Kumar s/o Mehar Chand aged about 28 years residents of village Kisal Ganjia, PS Jai Singh wala, Distt. Kangra. During their initial interrogation have revealed that before to it two months back they had delivered one KG charas earlier and it was their second trip. Recovered Tata sumo has been purchased by Sanjeev Kumar 6 months ago. Sanjeev Kumar is unmarried. Further interrogation is going on to dig out the past activities of the accused persons.




The Senior Superintendent of Police, SAS Nagar Gurpreet Singh Bhullar, Said that during the drive to check the drug peddling at different places in the district during the last few days from 14 accused persons 3kg opium, 3582 intoxicant tablets, 22 intoxicant syrup bottles, 63 intoxicant injections and60 kg and 700 gm poppy Husk recovered and action initiated against them as per law. Also arrested 3 proclaimed offenders.




(JL/jR)



Warm send off for Advisor to VC PTU Dr. Nachhattar Singh

Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): A send off party was given to Dr. Nachhattar Singh, Advisor to Vice Chancellor, Punjab Technical Universi....
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Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): A send off party was given to Dr. Nachhattar Singh, Advisor to Vice Chancellor, Punjab Technical University on completion of his deputation tenure. He gave his services in PTU as advisor to VC and on other administrative posts for a period of around three and a half years.




He joined PTU as advisor to VC on 16th September, 2009 on deputation from his parental department, Co-operative Bank. On 29th April, 2011, he was given additional charge of Punjab Institute of Management (PIM). He also worked as Dean Development and Planning in PTU from 14th September, 2011. He also gave his services as officiating Registrar PTU, Officiating Controller Examinations and in Finance & Accounts department. On completion of his tenure, he was Director, Punjab Institute of Technology, Kapurthala and Punjab Institute of Technical Teachers Training and Research (PITTTR), Jalandhar.




During the send off party, Vice Chancellor Dr. Rajneesh Arora, Dean Dr. Buta Singh Sidhu, Dean Dr. A.P. Singh, Registrar Dr. H.S. Bains, Dean Dr. Balkar Singh and all other staff members were also present. Dr. Nachhattar Singh was also honored with a shawl and a memento as a token of love by PTU family.






(Jl/jR)



Sixth All-India Punjabi Conference in Punjabi University Patiala begins

Patiala, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Started in 2008 to mark the Foundation Day of Punjabi University, the sixth All-India Punjabi Conference got....
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Patiala, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Started in 2008 to mark the Foundation Day of Punjabi University, the sixth All-India Punjabi Conference got underway at the University’s Guru Tegh Bahadur Hall here today. While addressing the conference, Vice-Chancellor Dr Jaspal Singh reiterated Punjabi University’s commitment to strengthen and enhance the base and contours of Punjabi in all its perspectives around the globe. He dispelled all doubts of Punjabi language losing into the oblivion since Punjabi was the language of scriptures and monumental works authored by illustrious Punjabis.




Being first-of-its-kind, the Punjabi conference has succeeded in developing a symbiotic relationship between Punjabis settled in various parts and states of the country. “The enthusiasm shown by the Punjabis settled in states other than Punjab has encouraged us to spread out on a wider horizon. Their honesty, fervor and gusto have enabled us to hold regional Punjabi conferences in Jharkhand (Dhanbad), West Bengal (Kolkata), Indore (Madhya Pradesh) and Uttrakhand (Rishikesh).” “We are also planning to hold conferences in UP, J&K, Orissa, and Himachal Pradesh in near future,” Dr Singh said. One of the major outcomes of these conferences is that the West Bengal cabinet has decided to declare Punjabi as second language in the state. “They have asked for the draft proposal in this regard, which we have already sent to them,” Dr Jaspal Singh said. The Uttrakhand government has already established Punjabi Academy as a consequence of efforts made the University, he added.




Those honoured by the Vice-Chancellor on the occasion for their significant contribution for the promotion of Punjabi and Punabiat in their respective fields, included noted Punjabi films comedian, Mehar Mittal, melodious Punjabi singer, Surinder Kaur and renowned Punjabi filmmaker and comedian, Jaspal Bhatti (posthumously), philanthropist, SPS Oberai, Sant Baba Jodh Singh, Dr Santokh Singh, Mrs Surinder Neer, Mr Karnail Singh ‘Sardar Panchhi’, Mr Jasbir Singh Sabharwal, Director of National Book Trust Baldev Singh, noted Punjabi writer and journalist, Gurbachan Singh Bhullar, Chairman Gurmat College, Delhi, Mr Harinderpal Singh.




According to the coordinator of the conference more than 300 delegates from 20 states are participating in the conference. The World Punjabi Centre and the NZCC are organizing an evening of Sufi singing and Kathakali dances on the occasion, he said.





The others who spoke on the occasion included Mr Surjit Singh Rakhra, Mr Tarlochan Singh, MP, Mr Satnam Singh Manak, Executive Editor of Ajit, Dr Balbir Kaur, Director, Punjab Language Department, Mr Prem Singh Chandumajra.







(Jl/jR)



Punjab revises minimum wages: Jayani

Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab Government has revised the minimum wages of Labourers of various categories with effect from 1....
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Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab Government has revised the minimum wages of Labourers of various categories with effect from 1st March, 2013.




Disclosing this today, Surjit Kumar Jayani said that the wages of the labourers working in various Factories, offices and Brick kilns have been reviesed. He said that the wages of Un skiled labourers like Chowkidaar, Peon, Helpers have been revised from Rs. 5200 to Rs. 5695 Per month. Likewise the wages of Semi- Skiled workers have been revised from Rs. 5980 to Rs. 6475 Per month. He said that the Skilled worker like Black smith and Electrician having five year experience on un skilled post would get minimum Rs. 7372 Per month instead of Rs. 6877 and wages of high skilled like Graduate, technical degree holder, crain driver, truck driver has been revised from Rs. 7909 to Rs. 8404.




Mr, jayani said that the wages of category-A staff like post graduate, MBA has been revised has been revised from Rs. 10370 to Rs. 10865, category-B like graduate has been revised from Rs. 8700 to Rs. 9195, category-C staff like under graduate has been revised from Rs. 7200 to Rs. 7695 and category-D staff like Matriculate has been revised from Rs. 6000 to Rs. 6495 per month.




Jayani further said that brick pathera would get Rs. 472.65 For thousand bricks, whereas Rs. 530.75 for thousand Tiles. He said that brick chunai wala would be paid Rs. 34.63, for loading on Rehra Rs. 177.03, for truck/trolley loading/unloading Rs. 152.13 and Keri wala would get minimum wages Rs. 29.60 per thousand bricks.




He further said that Punjab Government is all set to build labour sheds & Night Shelters in different parts of the state for the construction workers with the cost of Rs. 10 crore in the financial year 2013-14.






(JL/jR)



Complete ban on outside eatables and other items in Punjab prisons : Phillaur

Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): In order to ensure full security in the Punjab prisons, the Punjab government has imposed complete ban on....
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Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): In order to ensure full security in the Punjab prisons, the Punjab government has imposed complete ban on the eatables and other items brought by the visitors for the prisoners from outside during the meetings. This was stated here today by Mr. Sarwan Singh Phillaur, Jail Minister Punjab while presiding over a high level meeting of the senior officers, jail superintendents of sensitive jails and doctors posted in Punjab jails. At the same time the Minister has directed the jail authorities to make available every essential item for the inmates in the canteens within the jail premises. The Superintendent jail would be held responsible if any objectionable material is found supplied from outside.




The Punjab government, in order to check the overcrowding of prisoners in the state, would set up ultra modern jails especially in the state. Besides this the design and plan for three ultra-modern high security new jails at Amritsar, Bathinda and Muktsar to be constructed at a total cost of about Rs. 450 crore within two years. The new jails coming up would be equipped with CCTV cameras, Mobile Jammers, bio-security systems and other security equipment to ensure adequate security in Jails. The Minister has directed the officers to intensify their efforts to check the smuggling of drugs and cell phones and other prohibited items reportedly used by the prisoners in the jails. He has also asked them to follow the jail manual in both letter and spirit particularly when meetings are allowed. Any laxity on the part of the officers concerned would not be tolerated, he said. Reiterating the need of allowing only listed visitors, the Minister said that the government was in the process of formulating a clear strategy of allowing only the prescribed number of visitors and that too after thorough search so that nothing from outside could be taken inside the prisons. The visits would also be monitored by the deputy commissioners and the SDMs of the concerned districts, he added.




Referring to the frequent deaths of the inmates in the prisons, the Minister has asked the doctors posted in the prisons to ensure the best possible health care to the patients. Adequate stock of necessary medicines would be made available. A committee comprising of Superintendent Jail, Medical Officer of the Jail and Civil Surgeon have already been constituted to identify the Psychiatrist, Pediatrician, Gynecologist and other specialists’ on call doctors of the area to be on the panel of the jail department, added Mr. Phillaur. Besides this the ECG machines would be installed in the Prisons.




Expressing concern over the problems being faced by the prison staff in handling the nexus between the drug peddlers and the prisoners in the jails, the Minister said that the department was fully geared up to break this nexus and the superintendents of jails would be empowered to search the prisons and conduct criminal proceeding under NDPC Act. The Minister has asked the officers to conduct extensive fearless search operations in Punjab prisons with a view to nabbing the objectionable material posing security threat from the jail inmates. The officers confiscating maximum of such things from the prisoners would be honored by the state government, said the Minister.




Taking stock of the drug de-addiction centers set up in the jails, the Minister appreciated the efforts of health department along with the department of jails in providing advanced training in de-addiction to the 17 doctors of the state’s central jails from PGI under the De-addiction Coordination Program, Mr. Phillaur the vacant posts in various jail dispensaries would be filled up immediately. To ensure the recurrence of drug addiction in the inmates undergoing treatment, the Minister said that the efforts would be made to divert their minds towards some creative work rather them making them sit idle.




The prominent amongst others who were present in the meeting included Mr. D.S.Bains, Principal Secretary Home and Mrs. Raji P.Srivastva, Secretary Jails besides other senior officers of the department.




(JK/jR)



Badal terms rollack of wealth tax as victory of SAD

Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today described the Government of India’s decision to ....
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Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today described the Government of India’s decision to roll back wealth tax on agriculture land as “ a delayed step forward “ and said that the decision showed how the Congress leadership in Punjab had tried to sabotage it . They first completely denied the existence of the problem and later, faced with immense and unrelenting pressure mounted by the SAD-BJP, they sought to take undeserved credit for a decision taken against their declared stand. “




“ One has to be a little “unabashed” in one’s approach to claim credit for something that one had been opposing earlier. But being unabashed is the Unique Selling Point of the Congress party, especially of its Punjab unity.” Mr. Badal said that the PPCC chief Partap Singh Bajwas was in the most pathetic and ridiculous situation , as he woke up only when the SAD-BJP and the farmers had already pushed the button and driven center to the wall. “Bajwa’s other problem is Captain Amarinder Singh as the PPCC chief is always insecure about his hold on his job.”




The Chief Minister said that the center’s decision finally to bow before the surge of angry and deeply hurt farmers and to agree to rollback wealth tax had put the PPCC leaders in an extremely ridiculous, embarrassing and pitiable condition. The CM said that he was particularly amused over the hole that the PPCC president had dug for himself , those who first denied any decision of the central government to impose wealth tax on agriculture land and later claimed credit for the farmers’ victory. “This is indeed a victory of the farmers , but a victory over whom, Mr. Bajwa?? The CM asked . He advised he PPCC leadership to consult the farmers on whom they saw as their friends and their foes.” They will tell you whom they were fighting against. Their fight was against the Congress led UPA government. “




The Chief Minister said that that the developments in the parliament today had finally let the Congress cat out of the bag, but the Congress leaders were pretending to rejoice over their own defeat. This is the typical Congress double speak at its very best,” said Mr. Badal reacting to the decision of the government announced in the parli`ament .




Several PPCC leaders had gone on record saying that the SAD-BJP were merely enacting a political tamasha as wealth tax on agriculture land simply did not exist. “May I ask them now why were they running up and down in Delhi and what were they doing in Delhi in getting his PR photographs clicked with the central leaders, if wealth tax was indeed no issue? May I also ask Mr. Bajwa that if the SAD-BJP were turning a non-issue into an issue, why are they now claiming credit for such a non-issue ? These PPCC leaders were now standing unabashed in the first row to take credit for the victory of the farmers and of the SAD-BJP agains the declared policies and stand of the Congress party, both at the center and the in the state..’




He said that the PPCC chief Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa, who has turned his habit of speaking with his proverbial foot in the mouth, has a lot of explaining to do to the people for his earlier remarks that there was no wealth tax on agriculture land and that the SAD-BJP were merely misleading the people by turning a non-issue into an item of agitational politics. “




The Chief Minister said that the farming community and their sympathizers and supports must be vigilant against “ premature celebrations “ Though the anti-farmer forces, lobbies and party have been forced to retreat under pressure yet we have to be watchful because the Congress has a habit playing mischief till the very last moment.
The Chief Minister also said that though his dominant feeling today was one of some relief, the SAD-BJP alliance would await the details of the Congress’ complete U-turn on the question. “We have to look at the legal and constitutional fine-print of various clauses in the amendment in the concerned Act to make sure that no further mischief was being played by the government with the farmers,” he said.




The SAD-BJP had been protesting relentlessly against imposition of wealth tax on agricultural kinds but the CM said that he felt relieved in having forced the Congress-led UPA government to roll back its disastrous and irrational decision to impose wealth tax on agriculture lands in the state and the rest of the country. The Chief Minister said that his dominant feeling at the moment was one of big relief as the center had finally realized the utter folly and cynical opportunism of its decision on wealth tax on agricultural land.”






(JL/jR)



Punjab Plan of Rs16,125 crore for 2013-14 Finalized

New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): The Annual Plan for the year 2013-14 for the state of Punjab was finalised here today at a meeting betwee....
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New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): The Annual Plan for the year 2013-14 for the state of Punjab was finalised here today at a meeting between Deputy Chairman, Planning Commission, Mr. Montek Singh Ahluwalia and Chief Minister of Punjab, Sh. S. Parkash Singh Badal. The plan size has been agreed at Rs16,125crore.




In his comments, Deputy Chairman assured the State Government of continued support and pointed out that the issues raised by the State Government would be considered appropriately. He said Commission is aware of the water problems of the State and said the Committee under member Planning Commission, Dr. Mihir Shah has submitted report and is under consideration at present. Mr Ahluwalia said the State needs a strategy to reduce water use and should work out a policy to get out of unsustainable use of ground water.




The commission pointed out that there have been raising trends of non-communicable diseases. The actionable for the State include the need to effectively manage the adverse child sex-ratio, and malnutrition and the state should work-out a suitable incentive structure for ASHAs. For public health management, the State should take a Drug De-addiction control programs. Screening and early detection of cancer and management of drug affected people under NRHM. State should also consider using Double Fortified Salt in ICDS; Mid-day-meal programme and public distribution system. Implementation of JSY is also an important issue to be considered by the State, the commission said.




As the status of groundwater depletion in the State is alarming with about 80% blocks either critical or overexploited, the State need to review its water policy and invest more for recharging of groundwater, renovations of water bodies and canal systems, the commission said. Plateauing factor productivity, depletion of soil health and diversification of rice-wheat cropping system to some low water demanding crops which is compatible to existing natural resources and competitive to rise and wheat in system in terms of net returns of also needs due attention.




The commission said that efforts should be made by the State for modernisation of the canal systems, improve the water use efficiency in the surface water system and increase area under irrigation with surface water and reduce the burden on the groundwater based irrigation. It is suggested or adoption of micro irrigation in command area to increase the water use efficiency.




Mr Badal said the outlay for Annual Plan 2013-14 is Rs. 16,125 crore against Rs14,000 crore during the previous year showing an increase of 15%. The Annual Plan 2013-14 focuses on development of infrastructure in power, roads and rural water supply and sanitation. Health and Education continue to be the thrust areas of the Annual Plan 2013-14 with special emphasis on girl child and women empowerment.




He said although the economy has slowed down during the last two years. The State has achieved an average growth rate 6.73%during the 11th plan. The national growth is expected to be 5% during 2012-13 against which the state will show an economic growth rate of 5.2%.The Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of the state is expected to increase from Rs.2,59,223crore in 2011-12 to Rs.2,96,007 crore in 2012-13 at current prices showing a growth rate of 14.19%, while the national economy showed a growth rate of 13.27%.




Despite the locational constraints like its location on an international border and the challenge posed by militancy during the 80s, the State has the distinction of being ranked at 10th position with respect to per capita GSDP at constant prices (2004-05 prices) in the country and also above the all-India national average. Punjab is better off than All India average in all the socio-development indicators except for Sex Ratio and Child Sex Ratio.




He said new industrial policy aimed at eliminating bottlenecks in growth is nearing finalization and would shortly to taken up for cabinet approval. The concerns in agriculture sector would be reflected in the policy. He said storage of food grains is a major concern and the central support was needed in encouraging private sector to construct storage capacity. He said the Centre need to announce policy initiative aimed at incentivising crop diversification and adopt less water consuming crops.






(JL/jR)



Mansa SSP Bhargawa receives award for best and innovative Saanjh practices

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, April 30 : Bhawanigarh Police Station and Mansa SAANJH Kendra have been adjudged best police station and SAA....
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By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, April 30 : Bhawanigarh Police Station and Mansa SAANJH Kendra have been adjudged best police station and SAANJH Kendra during annual Police Station Visitors Week program organized by Altus Global Alliance through Institute for Development and Communication (IDC) amongst 396 police stations of four states/Union Territory of Assam, Chandigarh, Meghalaya and Punjab. It may be mentioned here that these annual visits by groups of citizens to local police stations are coordinated globally to produce comparable scores on five dimensions of police service i.e. Community Orientation; Physical conditions; Equal treatment of public without bias based on age, gender, ethnicity, nationality, minority or sexual orientation; Transparency and accountability; and Detention condition.



In Punjab, the PSVW was converged with the community-policing programme of Saanjh. Saanjh Kendra Mansa was assessed as the top Saanjh Kendra by citizens. Dr.Narinder Bhargawa was awarded for being the best & innovative SAANJH practices.



Mr. S.K. Sharma, ADGP (Human Resource Development and Community Policing), Punjab Police, mentioned that Punjab has converged Saanjh Community Policing Programme with the police reform. The main purpose is to improve the service delivery through citizen participatory policing.



Dr. Rainuka Dagar, Global Program Director, Altus Global Alliance informed that the sixth round of the annual PSVW was organized from in which 17 countries participated with 1,000 police stations receiving more than 5,000 citizens. She said that this global participatory program was aimed at improving the quality of local police services as perceived by local communities, taking into account the capacity of SHOs, the exchange of good practices and the effectiveness of accountability mechanisms in police stations.

In India, the PSVW organized by Institute for Development and Communication (IDC), an Altus member was implemented in four states/union territory of Assam, Chandigarh, Meghalaya and Punjab. A total of 396 police stations participated by welcoming 3,646 citizens to assess their stations. Citizens included members of NGOs, community liasoning groups, market committees, resident welfare associations, lawyers, women’s organizations, village representatives, slum dwellers, students and eminent civil society members.

Police Station Bhawanigarh, Sangrur, Punjab was assessed as the top police station from among participatory police stations. The award for consistency in performance was given to Chandigarh’s top assessed police station Sector 17.

To start the police reforms from the police station prove to be more citizen-friendly then many other reforms which have been initiated at different times and at different levels in India. This was the main observation made by Dr. A.A. Siddiqui, IPS (Retd.), Former DGP of Punjab and Manipur. Dr. Siddiqui further emphasised the need to converge community policing with the police station reforms.

Mr. Subodh Aggarwal, IAS (Retd.), Chief Commissioner, Punjab Rights to Service Commission emphasized that service delivery should be the main focus of police. He lauded the efforts to make police from enforcement perspective to service delivery though these kinds of initiatives. He further mentioned that the governance reforms in Punjab have not only been implemented in civil administration, but in police also. He further elaborated that under Punjab Rights to Service Act around 17 lakh citizens availed services from Police Saanjh Kendras.

Dr. Pramod Kumar, Chairman, Punjab Governance Reforms Commission (PGRC) highlighted the fact that citizen-centric reforms are the essential component of good governance. Technology per se cannot ensure dignified service to the people. The establishment of Community Policing Saanjh Kendras in Punjab has ensured both dignity and efficient accessibility to police services. The visits by the citizens living in the vicinity of the police station and members of the Saanjh Kendras can provide sustainability to the police station reforms.



PK Khurana on jury of exchange4media



Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): For the first time ever, a Chandigarh-based PR professional has been included on the jury....
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Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): For the first time ever, a Chandigarh-based PR professional has been included on the jury of the prestigious India PR & Communication Awards 2013 initiated by exchange4media. Media and PR veteran PK Khurana, Chairman and Managing Director, QuikRelations Pvt Ltd has been included in the jury of the India PR & Communication Awards 2013 to be held at The Leela Kempinski, Gurgaon on May 31 this year.

PK Khurana has had a successful stint with Indian Express, Hindustan Times, Dainik Jagran, Punjab Kesari and Divya Himachal. He was Director-Marketing with Divya Himachal and also served as the first editor with samachar4media.com when it was launched in 2010. He now heads QuikRelations Private Limited as its Chairman-cum-Managing Director.

The India PR & Corporate Communications Awards (IPRCCA 2013) are the most extensive and exhaustive awards aimed at recognizing the contribution and success of the Indian PR industry. With 4 categories and 22 sub-categories, IPRCCA 2013 is the path breaking initiative to salute and recognize the contribution of PR consultancies and Corporate Communications. The PR companies can send in their entries for categories namely campaign, product & promotion, corporate & public and people & agencies by May 3. One can visit the link www.exchange4media.com/iprcca2013/index.aspx to have details on the award and entry submission.


The 14 member jury panel is headed by Sanjay Baru, Director, Geo-Economics & Strategy and also includes other PR industry bigwigs like Archana Jain, MD, PR Pundit; LV Krishnan, CEO, TAM Media Research; Pranjal Sharma, Editorial & Knowledge Advisor, Columnist, BusinessWorld; Sunanyna Malik, MD, Text100 Global PR among others.


Annurag Batra, Chairman and Editor in Chief, exchange4media Group, s

aid, “This is the third year of India PR & Communication Awards and this time around the categories have been put up by a robust advisory board and international award formats have also been taken into consideration to improvise on the categories and selection process. The awards are going to be unique as the entries will be shortlisted through a transparent process and online judging will be done to shortlist the five top entries under each nomination and then the jury will physically meet and choose the winners from among the final five.” ***



Congress asks Badal to pass resolution in Vidhan Sabha to thank UPA Govt on Wealth Tax issue

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, April 30 : The office bearers of Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) and all sitting MLAs today welcomed....
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By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, April 30 : The office bearers of Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) and all sitting MLAs today welcomed the decision of Center government to exempt agriculture land from wealth tax and expressed deep gratitude to the UPA Chairperson Mrs. Sonia Gandhi, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, Finance Minister Mr.P.Chidambram and PPCC President Mr.Partap Singh Bajwa for protecting the interests of forming community.


In a joint statement issued here the Congress leaders said that it was victory of Congress party which took a firm stand in favour of farming community.

They asked Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal to show statesmanship bring a resolution in the Vidhan Sabha on May 3 to express gratitude to the UPA Government for land mark decision.

They said that Congress party was first to raise the issue of wealth tax and later the SAD-BJP government tried to hijack the issue for getting political mileage. They said that though BJP kept silence on the issue, the SAD leaders blown the issue out of proportion to divert the attention of people from the core issues of property tax, hike in power tariff, law and order, illegal mining and corruption.

The Congress leaders said that after the center government has conceded the demand of exempting agriculture land from wealth tax, it would be appropriate to discuss all core issues in the Vidhan Sabha session on May 3. He said that Congress party would like to debate non-governance of SAD-BJP government. They demanded to withdraw hike in power tariff and rationalize property tax to minimum level.

The Congress leaders complimented Mr. Bajwa for his untiring efforts in taking up the issue with UPA government in right earnest. They said that Mr. Bajwa rose to the occasion and defeated the design of SAD-BJP government to create confusion among farmers.

The statement was jointly issued by Mr. Lal Singh, Mr.Ashwani Sekhri, Ch.Jagjit Singh, Rana K.P.Singh, Mr.Sukh Sarkaria, Rana Gurmeet Singh Sodhi, Kewal Singh Dhillon, (all Vice Presidents), Aruna Chaudhary, Arvind Khanna, Vikram Bajwa, Harminder Singh Jassi, Fateh Jung Singh Bajwa, Gurbinder Singh Atwal and Kushaldeep Singh Dhillon(all general secretaries). Mr. O.P. Soni, Tarlochan Soond, Gurpreet Singh Kangar, Charanjit Singh Channi (Vice Presidents) and the MLAs Randeep Singh Nabha, Ajaib Singh Bhatti, Jeet Mohinder Singh Sidhu, Harchand Kaur, Mohammed Sadique, Parminder Singh Pinki, ana Gurmit Singh Sodhi, Ajit Inder Singh Mofar,Amarinder Singh Raja waring, Karan Kaur, Gurkirat Singh Kotli, Sukhjinder Singh Randhawa, Charanjit Kaur Bajwa, Sunder Sham Arora, Navtej Singh, Surinder Dawar, Rakesh Pandey, Bharat Bhushan Ashu, Amrik Singh, Guriqbal Kaur, Dr. Raj Kumar Verka, Kuljit Singh Nagra, Sangat Singh Gilzian, Sadhu Singh Dharamsot, Hardyal Singh Kambhoj, Brahm Mohindra, Jagmohan Singh Kang, Balbir Singh Sidhu and Ramanjit Singh Sikki



Badal calls roll back of wealth tax 'a delayed step forward'

Chandigarh April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today described the Government of India’s decision to roll....
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Chandigarh April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today described the Government of India’s decision to roll back wealth tax on agriculture land as “ a delayed step forward “ and said that the decision showed how the Congress leadership in Punjab had tried to sabotage it .

They first completely denied the existence of the problem and later, faced with immense and unrelenting pressure mounted by the SAD-BJP, they sought to take undeserved credit for a decision taken against their declared stand. “


“ One has to be a little “unabashed” in one’s approach to claim credit for something that one had been opposing earlier. But being unabashed is the Unique Selling Point of the Congress party, especially of its Punjab unity.”
Badal said that the PPCC chief Partap Singh Bajwas was in the most pathetic and ridiculous situation , as he woke up only when the SAD-BJP and the farmers had already pushed the button and driven center to the wall. “Bajwa’s other problem is Captain Amarinder Singh as the PPCC chief is always insecure about his hold on his job.”
The Chief Minister said that the center’s decision finally to bow before the surge of angry and deeply hurt farmers and to agree to rollback wealth tax had put the PPCC leaders in an extremely ridiculous, embarrassing and pitiable condition. The CM said that he was particularly amused over the hole that the PPCC president had dug for himself , those who first denied any decision of the central government to impose wealth tax on agriculture land and later claimed credit for the farmers’ victory. “This is indeed a victory of the farmers , but a victory over whom, Mr. Bajwa?? The CM asked . He advised he PPCC leadership to consult the farmers on whom they saw as their friends and their foes.” They will tell you whom they were fighting against. Their fight was against the Congress led UPA government. “


The Chief Minister said that that the developments in the parliament today had finally let the Congress cat out of the bag, but the Congress leaders were pretending to rejoice over their own defeat. This is the typical Congress double speak at its very best,” said Badal reacting to the decision of the government announced in the parli`ament .


Several PPCC leaders had gone on record saying that the SAD-BJP were merely enacting a political tamasha as wealth tax on agriculture land simply did not exist. “May I ask them now why were they running up and down in Delhi and what were they doing in Delhi in getting his PR photographs clicked with the central leaders, if wealth tax was indeed no issue? May I also ask Mr. Bajwa that if the SAD-BJP were turning a non-issue into an issue, why are they now claiming credit for such a non-issue ? These PPCC leaders were now standing unabashed in the first row to take credit for the victory of the farmers and of the SAD-BJP agains the declared policies and stand of the Congress party, both at the center and the in the state..’


He said that the PPCC chief Partap Singh Bajwa, who has turned his habit of speaking with his proverbial foot in the mouth, has a lot of explaining to do to the people for his earlier remarks that there was no wealth tax on agriculture land and that the SAD-BJP were merely misleading the people by turning a non-issue into an item of agitational politics. “


The Chief Minister said that the farming community and their sympathizers and supports must be vigilant against “ premature celebrations “ Though the anti-farmer forces, lobbies and party have been forced to retreat under pressure yet we have to be watchful because the Congress has a habit playing mischief till the very last moment.
The Chief Minister also said that though his dominant feeling today was one of some relief, the SAD-BJP alliance would await the details of the Congress’ complete U-turn on the question. “We have to look at the legal and constitutional fine-print of various clauses in the amendment in the concerned Act to make sure that no further mischief was being played by the government with the farmers,” he said.


The SAD-BJP had been protesting relentlessly against imposition of wealth tax on agricultural kinds but the CM said that he felt relieved in having forced the Congress-led UPA government to roll back its disastrous and irrational decision to impose wealth tax on agriculture lands in the state and the rest of the country. The Chief Minister said that his dominant feeling at the moment was one of big relief as the center had finally realized the utter folly and cynical opportunism of its decision on wealth tax on agricultural land.”




Haryana told to suspend policy for naming school on names of donors


Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau) The Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed Haryana Government to keep suspend its policy for....
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Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau) The Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed Haryana Government to keep suspend its policy for naming the Government schools and other institutions after the names of donors. Punjab Government however filed reply justifying its similar policy.



During the hearing of a PIL filed by retired Head Master Iqbal Singh, seeking the issuance of direction to Punjab Government to fill up all the vacant posts of Principals of Senior Secondary Schools, the Division Bench of the High Court comprising ACJ Jasbir Singh and Justice Rakesh Kumar Jain today observed to the effect that as per newspaper reports, Haryana Government has also a policy to name the Government schools and other institutions after the names of the donors.

The Division Bench directed the Haryana Government to keep in abeyance such policy till further orders, and to submit before the High Court, justification for the same by filing reply. On the previous date of hearing of the PIL on April 22nd, the High Court had stayed the operations of a similar policy framed by Punjab Government for naming the Government schools/institutions after the names of the donors. In response to the said order, an affidavit was filed today before the High Court by Kamal Kumar Garg, Director Public Instructions ( Secondary Education) Punjab.

A copy of the policy under reference was also produced before the High Court along with the reply filed by Garg. It has been stated in the reply that policy has been framed to attract the participation of eminent local personalities/organizations in the development of schools. It has been disclosed that so far 189 schools have been named after those persons who had rendered service to the society, or have sacrificed their lives for the country.

These cases have been approved without any monetary consideration. However, only 40 schools have been named under the donation policy. So far, approximately Rs. 3.59 crores have been received as donation under this policy. Out of these, 17 cases are such where entire building has been donated. Along with the reply, a list of 5 Government schools has been given where the change of name is under consideration, after receipt of donation.




Punjab election commission told to upload notification on website


Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed Punjab State Election Commission to upload all notifi....
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Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed Punjab State Election Commission to upload all notifications and other information pertaining to forth- coming Panchayat and Zila Parisad elections in Punjab on its official website



In response to PIL filed by Jaskirit Singh( of Ludhiana) and Parvinder Singh Kittna, of Nawanshaher, seeking appropriate directions to Punjab State Election Commission to create its own official website, and to provide all relevant notifications pertaining to the elections to be conducted by it on such official website, Shri. M.L. Sharma, Secretary, State Election Commission, Punjab today filed a reply before the Division Bench of High Court comprising ACJ Jasbir Singh and Justice Rakesh Kumar Jain, stating that a website with the domain name http://pbsec.gov.in has been created, and the respondents are trying to make available the relevant information for General Public through the aforesaid website.


While directing the respondents to upload all the relevant notifications on the newly created website of Punjab State Election Commission within a period of 2 months, the High Court Bench further directed that all information pertaining to forth -coming Panchayat and Zila Parisad elections shall be immediately uploaded by it on its official website.


As regards the prayer made in the PIL that all the Returning Officers should be directed to display affidavits filed by various candidate, on their notice board, the respondents have stated in their reply that under the amended Panchayati Raj Act 1994, the provision has been made for compulsory display of such affidavits on the notice boards by the Returning Officers.


After noting the aforesaid statement of the respondents, and the contents of the written statement filed by them, the High Court disposed of the PIL in the above terms.



Towing agencies told to submit surplus amount to govt treasury


Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau) The Punjab and Haryana High Court restrained CPRCs (Community Policing Resource Centres) Ludhiana ....
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Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau) The Punjab and Haryana High Court restrained CPRCs (Community Policing Resource Centres) Ludhiana and other such CPRCs from retaining any amount out of towing charges, and directs that surplus amount after payment of charges of towing agencies, shall be deposited in Government treasury.



A Division Bench of the High Court comprising ASJ Jasbir Singh and Justice Rakesh Kumar Jain, today issued notice to State of Punjab and Haryana, Union of India, as well as to Chandigarh Administration in a PIL filed by Kuldeep Singh Khaira, through advocate H.C. Arora, seeking appropriate directions to them to strictly follow the provisions of Motor Vehicles Act in the matter of towing of wrongly parked vehicles.


The petitioner has alleged in the PIL that at many places, in Punjab, instead of depositing the towing charges collected by challaning the owners of wrongly parked vehicles, in the Government treasury, the Police authorities have found a novel way of usurping a portion of such towing charges. According to the PIL, in Ludhiana, one M/S Shunty Motor Recovery Store and Recovery Service, Ludhiana, was selected as towing agency in February, 2012, and an agreement was signed by CPRC Ludhiana (Community Policing Resource Centre) with said agency, to the effect that out of every Rs. 500/- collected from owners of wrongly parked vehicles as fine, Rs. 400/- shall be given to said agency and remaining Rs. 100/- shall be retained by CPRC, Ludhiana. In this manner during first 7 months in February, 2012 out of Rs. 51.66 lakhs collected as fine from wrongly parked vehicles, the CPRC has itself retained an amount of Rs. 19 lakhs approximately, which should have been deposited in the Government account. Thus, the Police Officers in various Districts are usurping the Government funds in an illegal manner. The Counsel for the petitioner argued that under sections 122 and 126 OF Motor Vehicle Act, provisions have been made for imposing fine on owners of wrongly/dangerously parked vehicles on the roads. Therefore, the surplus amount out the fine so imposed for such wrongly parked vehicles, should have been deposited in the Government treasury.



While issuing notice of motion to the respondent for May 15th, the High Court directed that although the scheme for towing wrongly parked vehicles will continue, yet share of the CPRCs shall be deposited only in the Government treasury and will not be retained by them.



Punjab govt told to coordinate with investigation officers

Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau) Hearing a Public Interest Litigation regarding missing files of IAS and PCS officers of Punjab the Punjab ....
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Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau) Hearing a Public Interest Litigation regarding missing files of IAS and PCS officers of Punjab the Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed Secretary, Personnel, Punjab Government, to immediately supply requisite information to Investigation Officer of U.T. Chandigarh Police.


In pursuance to the direction issued by the High Court Bench comprising ACJ Jasbir Singh and Justice Rakesh Kumar Jain, on last date of hearing, the Investigation Officer, Ashish Kapoor, DSP (Central) Chandigarh Police, submitted a short reply before the High Court, in response to the PIL filed by advocate H.C. Arora , in his reply, Ashish Kapoor has stated that after registration of an FIR on March 8th, 2013, statements of 4 employees of Punjab Government Secretariat were recorded.

He also stated that movement registers pertaining to missing files were taken into possession by him. However, those movement registers do not have any signatures of recipients of files. In response to a query sent by the I.O, the Secretary, Personnel, Punjab Government has stated that there is no practice to obtain signatures of the officers while handing over files to them. The investigation into the matter is still going on.
Immediately on receiving the short reply of DSP, Ashish Kapoor, the petitioner, H.C. Arora, submitted before the Bench that instruction be issued to Punjab Government to supply whatever information is required by the Investigation Officers. The Counsel for U.T. Chandigarh Administration also stated that Punjab Government is not coming forward to furnish the requisite information to the I.O. At this stage, the High Court directed the I.O. to seek whatever information is required, by sending a written communication to the Secretary, Personnel Department, Punjab Government. The Bench also simultaneously directed the Secretary, Personnel, Punjab Government, immediately supply whatever information may be required by the I.O. “Any laxity on the part of Personnel Department will be taken very seriously.” Observed the Bench.


While adjourning the PIL further hearing to May 28th, the High Court directed the I.O. to submit his status report regarding position of inquiry on that date.
In response to the directions issued by the High Court on the last date of hearing, Yog Raj Sharma, former Under Secretary, Department of Personnel, Government of Punjab, who has been named as accused in the FIR, also appeared today before the High Court. In response to an oral query put to him by the Bench, Yog Raj Sharma stated that he never received any of the files under reference. The Bench thereupon directed Yog Raj Sharma to file his written reply to the PIL on the next date of hearing.



SAD withdraws call for District level Dharnas on May 2nd

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, April 30 : The Shiromani Akali Dal on Tuesday postponed the proposed dharnas at district level on May 2nd to....
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By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, April 30 : The Shiromani Akali Dal on Tuesday postponed the proposed dharnas at district level on May 2nd to protest against the imposition of wealth tax on agriculture land by the Congress led UPA government. This decision was taken keeping in view the announcement made by Union Finance Minister Mr. P. Chidambaram in the Parliament today to withdraw the wealth tax.

In a statement released from the party head office here today, the SAD Secretary and Spokesman Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema said that the announcement to withdraw the tax is a major victory of the SAD as the Centre was forced to withdraw the tax in view of massive response to the efforts of the Chief Minister S. Parkash Singh Badal and Punjab Deputy Chief Minister and SAD President Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal to garner support to oppose the wealth tax.

He said that all the major political parties had pledged their support to the SAD to oppose the anti farmer tax which was a cruel joke with the farmers of the nation.



Accused of anti-sikh riots case,Sajjan Kumar acquitted by Delhi Court

New Delhi, April 30(BB): In what has come as big surprise to the Sikhs that congress leader Sajjan Kumar in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots case has been ac....
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New Delhi, April 30(BB): In what has come as big surprise to the Sikhs that congress leader Sajjan Kumar in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots case has been acquitted by Karkardooma Court today of the charges of mob instigation. The judgment is big shock for sikh lawyers and Sikh organizations fighting for the justice of 84 victim families.
Sajjan Kumar and five others had been accused of allegedly inciting a mob to kill 5 Sikhs in Delhi cantonment area in 1984. He had been charged with dacoity, murder, inciting violence, rioting and damaging public property.

The others facing the trial were: Kishan Khokkar, Balwan Khokkar, Girdhari Lal, Captain Bhagmal and Mahender Yadav.
Meanwhile, victims of 1984 riots protesting and workers of AISSF present outside the court expressed their resentment over the verdict and said justice has been denied even after 29 years in Indian democracy.
It may be recalled that the Supreme Court had refused to quash the charges against Sajjan Kumar and said that trial would continue against him. The court had also pulled up CBI for failing to conclude its arguments and said if the agency took too long, the court would go ahead and deliver the verdict without hearing its side. CBI concluded its arguments last week.

The anti-Sikh riots broke out after assassination of the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi 0n October 31, 1984 and over three thousand Sikhs were killed by enraged Hindu mobs across Delhi streets.

The case against Sajjan Kumar was registered in 2005 on recommendation of Nanavati Commission. Two charge sheets were filed against Sajjan Kumar and others by CBI in January 2010.

Meanwhile, victims of 1984 riots protesting outside the court expressed their resentment over the verdict and said justice has been denied even after 29 years in Indian democracy.



Sharing information of Coal Scam with the government has shaken the entire process: Supreme Court

New Delhi April 30(BB): Supreme court of India showing displeasure over the sharing of coal scam report with minister and officials by the CBI, have o....
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New Delhi April 30(BB): Supreme court of India showing displeasure over the sharing of coal scam report with minister and officials by the CBI, have observed that the independence of CBI must be ensured.
Taking note on the affidavit on coal scam filed by the CBI Director Ranjit Sinha, the Supreme Court on Tuesday said that very disturbing features were there in it.

According to a report by Zee news, the court further said, “Sharing information with the government has shaken the entire process”.

"Why was court kept in the dark about sharing probe report with government", the apex court has further asked.

Stating that CBI's 'independent position must be restored' the SC said, "Our first exercise will be to liberate CBI from political interference".

This suppression by CBI is not ordinary, said the Supreme Court.

Asking CBI to maintain its independent position, the court said, "You don't need to take instructions from political masters".



PM assures Badal of satisfactory solution of wealth tax

New Delhi, April 30(babushahi.com bureau)-Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh has assured the Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal of satisfactor....
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New Delhi, April 30(babushahi.com bureau)-Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh has assured the Punjab Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal of satisfactory solution of his demand for abolition of Wealth Tax on Agriculture lands within the urban periphery of Municipal limits.
Talking to the media persons here today, the Chief Minister informed that Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh called him up late last evening assuring of satisfactory solution to his demand for rolling back of Wealth Tax on Agriculture land around the Urban areas. Responding positively to Mr Badal’s request the Prime Minister apprised the former that he had already received a letter from him seeking latter’s personal intervention to roll back the wealth tax. It may be recalled that the Chief Minister had written a detailed DO letter to the Prime Minister, Finance Minister, all Members of Parliament besides Chief Minister’s of all the states across the country to evolve a consensus for the immediate withdrawal of Wealth Tax on Agriculture land. Apart from this the Chief Minister was also meeting the senior leaders of national and regional parties to mobilize a public opinion against the imposition of the Wealth tax to prevail upon the GoI to abolish it immediately.
However the Chief Minister unequivocally stated that Shiromani Akali Dal would firmly oppose the imposition of wealth tax and continue its endeavor till its logical conclusion thereby safeguarding the interests of the farmers.



Now, Pakistan must punish the attackers on Sarabjit




By HARISH DIDO




Whatever may be the outcome of appeals and medical treatment to Sarabjit ....
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By HARISH DIDO




Whatever may be the outcome of appeals and medical treatment to Sarabjit Singh in JinnahHospital in Pakistan, the attackers on Sarabjit Singh must be given severe punishment besides ensuring to stop the repetition of such incidents.

Brutal attack on Sarabjit Singh in Pakistan Kot Lakhpat jail shocked many in India. The death row convict is currently in coma and has been admitted to a hospital in Lahore. However, this was not first time when the Indian prisoner was attacked by his fellow inmates inside the prison. Sarabjit earlier had altercation with his attackers who had tried to kill him but failed in their attempt.


Sarabjit was convicted for alleged involvement in a string of bomb attacks in Punjab province that killed 14 people in 1990. His mercy petitions were rejected by the courts and former President Pervez Musharraf. The outgoing Pakistan Peoples Party-led government put off Sarabjit's execution for an indefinite period in 2008. Sarabjit's family says he is the victim of mistaken identity and had inadvertently strayed across the border in an inebriated state.



Despite appeal from the Government, family of Sarabjit Singh and various social organisatons, the Pakistan government has refused to send Sarbjit Singh to India. This was not even expected as Pakistan government is not in a position to deal with the situation on this decision. But it was definite that after the death sentence of Afzal Kasab inIndia, some untoward incidents could happen with the Indian prisoners in Pakistan jails. The possibility of Sarbjit Singh becoming the first victim could be possible as he was being equated with Kasab, in India.



The only big difference is that Kasab was caught red-handed on the day of incident on 26/11 whereas there is no authentic proof against Sarabjit Singh and that is why, he is being considered as a victim of mistaken identity. According to family members of Sarabjit Singh crossed the Indian border under the influence of liquor where he was arrested but Pakistan Rangers were looking for Manjit Singh and all charges were framed on him. The same thing is also happening India also and the person like Sarbjit Singh are entangled in the game between politics and staunch. It is said that there are hundreds of prisoners inPakistan and Indian jails who inadvertently crossed over to Pakistan or fishermen who were arrested for crossing the sea boundary. It is also alleged some prisoners are those who over-stayed on the expiry of visas. All those prisoners are facing the trials and punishment in Pakistan jails on account of hate and mistrust between the two countries and there is a need to think over this issue on humanitarian grounds.



No-doubt, both the Human Rights and Judicial Commissions of both the countries have already said that the citizens of both the countries crossed over to each other boundaries inadvertently or for some minor violations, should be sent back to their respective countries but the politics does not allow this and Pakistan is facing the problem for giving importance to religious bodies and is now so involved in political chaos, anarchy and is being governed by the religious bodies.



India has shown due respect to the judiciary of Pakistan despite opposing the death sentence awarded to Sarabjit Singh and it is necessary that this respect is maintained and it could only be possible, if the Pakistan gives the sever punishment to the attackers on Sarabjit Singh besides ensuring to stop the repetition of such incidents.




Chandigarh: DSPs on deputation to probe allegations against Amanjot

Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): The Chandigarh inspector general of police (IGP), RP Upadhyaya, has marked an inquiry to deputy superint....
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Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): The Chandigarh inspector general of police (IGP), RP Upadhyaya, has marked an inquiry to deputy superintendents of police (DSPs), who are on deputation from Delhi, to look into the recent incident involving suspended inspector Amanjot Singh.


Two property dealers had complained of alleged manhandling and extortion by Amanjot in Sector 20 on Saturday. The UT police are also writing to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to look into the incident, if it pertains to corruption. Besides, the source of huge amount allegedly lent by the inspector to the property dealers is also being investigated.


The decision of the police brass to mark an inquiry to officials on deputation from Delhi clearly indicates that they do not want the probe to be influenced by anyone.
Earlier, the case was being handled by DSP (east) Vijay Kumar as the incident had occurred in his jurisdiction.


The local police had registered a case of extortion, theft and criminal intimidation against inspector Amanjot Singh following a complaint lodged by a city property dealer on April 27. A case was registered under Sections 380, 384 and 506 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) at the Sector-19 police station.
The case has been transferred to economic offences wing (EOW) as the amount in question is more than Rs 1 crore.



Chandigarh police book PCS officer TK Goel for forgery

Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): The Candigarh Police have booked Punjab Civil Service (PCS) officer TK Goel on charges of cheating, forge....
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Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): The Candigarh Police have booked Punjab Civil Service (PCS) officer TK Goel on charges of cheating, forgery and criminal conspiracy regarding the preparation of a forged caste certificate.
Goel is at present posted as deputy director, local bodies department, Punjab. Punjab vigilance bureau director had earlier complained that Goel and others had prepared a forged scheduled caste certificate for submission to the VB.


The vigilance bureau had arrested Goel, then posted as joint secretary in the department of welfare of Scheduled Castes and Backward Classes, on September 8, 2010, allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs 50,000 at his office in the mini-secretariat from George Shubh of Begowal village in Kapurthala.


DSP (central) Ashish Kapoor said that after a police complaint was lodged, a probe regarding the cancellation of the SC certificate of George revealed that the document lying with George bore the signature of only one member whereas the document submitted by Goel in his defence to the VB had three signatures.
A verification of the document allegedly revealed that the signatures on the said certificate were forged. Goel was one of the members on the panel that issued SC/ST certificates. After preliminary inquiry, police have registered a case against Goel.



Army to now have women officers as ADCs


New Delhi, April 30 (Curtsey Hindustan Times): For the first time in history, chief of army staff general Bikram Singh has issued orders to ap....
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New Delhi, April 30 (Curtsey Hindustan Times): For the first time in history, chief of army staff general Bikram Singh has issued orders to appoint women officers as aide-decamps (ADCs) to army commanders. ADCs are usually personal assistants to high-ranking military officials, Governors and the President of India.



Govt allows airlines to charge for preferred seats, check-in bags


New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): In a move that would raise the cost of air travel, the government on Monday said it has allowed ai....
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New Delhi, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): In a move that would raise the cost of air travel, the government on Monday said it has allowed airlines to charge passengers for preferred seats on a flight, check-in baggage and meals, among other things.
Civil Aviation Minister Ajit Singh has decided to permit scheduled airlines to unbundle certain services and to charge fees for these services separately, an official release said. The services for which the airlines would be free to charge passengers include preferential seating, meals, snacks, drinks (barring drinking water), check-in baggage, use of airline lounges, carriage of sports equipment and musical instruments and valuable baggage which have higher carrier liability. The practice was launched in 2008 by some US carriers which were facing financial crunch. Their decision to charge or even the first checked baggage had then received flak from air travellers, but the practice still continues with the airlines g



New amendment bid to give wives inherited property share

New Delhi, April 30 (Curtsey Times of India): In a big step towards women empowerment the Union Cabinet is likely to discuss an amendment to the marri....
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New Delhi, April 30 (Curtsey Times of India): In a big step towards women empowerment the Union Cabinet is likely to discuss an amendment to the marriage laws which, in the event of a divorce, would give the wife an equal share of not only the property acquired by the husband during or before the marriage but also his inherited or inheritable property.

The proposed amendment, that is likely to be controversial, aims to redefine the phrase 'residential property' to include not just the residential house but also other properties acquired by the husband.
In case other members of the family (apart from the husband) also have rights in the inherited property and it is impractical to divide it, the amendment proposes to compensate the wife with an equivalent amount of money in place of her share. The proposed change aims to give the wife an equal share in the property regardless of whether it was acquired before or after marriage and regardless of whether it is only in the husband's name or held jointly. The government had earlier introduced the amendment bill in order to alter the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, and the Special Marriage Act, 1954, to introduce the option of divorce on grounds of irretrievable breakdown of marriage.



SGPC constitutes committee over inscription of names in bluestar memorial


Amritsar, April 30 (babushhai.com bureau): Amidst controversy over the inscription of the name of militant leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale ....
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Amritsar, April 30 (babushhai.com bureau): Amidst controversy over the inscription of the name of militant leader Jarnail Singh Bhindranwale at the Operation Bluestar Memorial in the Golden Temple complex, the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) has constituted a three-member committee to look into the issue. The committee members include Jathedar of Akal Takht Giani Gurbachan Singh, Head Granthi of Harmandir Sahib Giani Mal Singh and SGPC executive member Rajinder Singh Mehta. When the memorial was under construction, it was assured that there would no name inscribed or pictures put up but at the inauguration, the name of Bhindranwale was unveiled. A wall clock carries his picture as well. Soon after the inauguration of the memorial, the SGPC took the responsibility of maintenance of the memorial from the head of Sikh seminary Damdami Taksal, Baba Harnaam Singh Khalsa.



Retd Prof Sujit Hans honoured for translating Shakespeare plays into Punjabi

Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): A retired history professor of Guru Nanak Dev University in Amritsar has translated all the plays of Wil....
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Chandigarh, April 30 (babushahi.com bureau): A retired history professor of Guru Nanak Dev University in Amritsar has translated all the plays of William Shakespeare into Punjabi language after over 20 years of painstaking work.
Professor Sujit Hans said that he began work on the project in 1993 after retirement by translating Othello. He said as a student in 1953 he loved Shakespeare plays and later translated Macbeth.



“I translated and staged Macbeth in Punjabi. This Macbeth translation inspired me to press ahead with all Shakespeare’’s plays after my retirement from GNDU in 1993. It took me 20 years to complete the translation work,” Hans said at a function held to honour him at Kurukshetra, Haryana, on Monday.



Kurukshetra University Vice Chancellor D D S Sandhu honoured Hans, for his extraordinary achievement of translating all the 38 plays of the bard into Punjabi.



Five members of an NRI Punjabi family of Surrey died in a fatal road accident

Pacific Highway crash kills 5 in Surrey, B.C.


5 members of family killed in fatal accident belong to Rampura Phul
Surrey (Ca....
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Pacific Highway crash kills 5 in Surrey, B.C.


5 members of family killed in fatal accident belong to Rampura Phul
Surrey (Canada) April 29 (BB):The 5 members of a single family killed in a fatal accident on Sunday in Surrey belong to a well known Sachdeva family of Rampura Phul Distt Bathinda.The names of the dead are Mrs Rina (W/O Jolly Sachdeva, Owner of Sachdeva Sweets Surrey),Mrs. Neelam( w/o Yash Pal), mother of Jolly Sachdeva , Aneesh ( 5 son of Jolly) and their three years old baby Jessica.The family originally belong to Mehraj Village but later had shifted to Rampura Phul.The whole family had migrated to Canada sometime back. Neelam was a school teacher in Gill Kalan village near Rampura Phul.The only survivor of the
According to the earlier reports ,five people are reported dead – two of them children – and one man were seriously injured in a horrific traffic accident that occurred in a busy British Columbia intersection. It seems all dead were of the same family. They were returning from Dera Bias situated near US Border Although the Police did not disclose the identity of the dead but it is learnt that the head of the family is said to be the owner of Indian sweet shop of Surrey.
The accident took place when two vehicles collided near the intersection of 176th Street and 32nd Avenue at about 11 a.m. PT.

According to Globe and Mail and CBC news -Sgt. Carr said the van was going at such high speed that when it struck the second vehicle, a mid-sized car “which was torn apart,” it spread debris for 200 metres down the road.
He said all five people in the car, three adults and two children, were killed.
The driver of the van, a man in his 40s, was taken to hospital by helicopter.
The accident took place where Highway 15 crosses 32 Avenue, in an area surrounded by farm fields.
The highway was closed off for several blocks Sunday afternoon, as police, fire and ambulance services responded to the scene.
It is possibly the worst car crash witnessed in over 20 years.
The force of the crash caused both vehicles to overturn, and a pair of sunglasses to embed in a lamp post, police said.



INLD calls Political Affairs Committee's meeting for on April 30

Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): In order to finalize the next phase of the Jansampark campaign, the INLD has called a meeting of party p....
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Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): In order to finalize the next phase of the Jansampark campaign, the INLD has called a meeting of party political affair committee (PAC) in New Delhi on 30th April, in which the party will also discuss the issues like wealth tax on farmers and elecetion of seven Municipal Corporations to be held.

In the meeting, MLA from Ellnabad, Chaudhary Abhay Singh Chautala and INLD state president Shri Ashok Arora along with members of PAC will participate and upcoming party strategy will be finalized. INLD will also discuss issues like the state’s worsening law and order condition, improper arrangements for lifting of wheat and not giving bonus to the farmers by Hooda government.


Ashok Arora, said that INLD has decided to oppose the wealth tax imposed on farmers. He said that the party’s Rajya sabha MP Ranbir Singh Prajapati will also raise this issue in parliament. He further said that this proposal of congress government is against the farmer’s and we will not accept this proposal at any cost. He also said that INLD will also aware the farmers about the disadvantages of this proposal and will start a campaign. According to him, Congress government is becoming a threat for the farmers and we will not tolerate this.


Shri Arora further said that there is not any law and order in the state and public is losing its faith from the government and police due to the increasing incidents of murder, rape, kidnapping, extortion and gang rape and government is not taking any steps in stop such incidents. He said that now congress MLA’s and MP’s have also started blaming the government, as the government is selling jobs openly. INLD leader said that CM is trying to make fool of the public and is giving false statements. He also said that the party will actively participate in the upcoming elections of Municipal corporations and candidates with the clean image will be landed in the elections. He revealed that in tomorrow’s meeting, the strategy for elections as well as party’s next step for Janjagran abhiyan will be decided.



Comptition of statements over Wealth Tax:Congress a headless chicken : Sukhbir

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh April 29 : The Shiromani Akali Dal president and Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal said here t....
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By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh April 29 : The Shiromani Akali Dal president and Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal said here today that the Congress party was running like a headless-chicken, both in Punjab and the rest of the country, not knowing where it was heading and desperately short of issues and ideas.



“The Congress leaders in Punjab are reduced to doing “the catching up” with us on every issue everyday, be it the Wealth Tax on agriculture or relief for debt ridden farmers. No sooner does SAD- BJP alliance articulates an issue of the people than the Congress leaders in Punjab rush to Delhi, seek an appointment with any central leader they can get hold of for a photo opportunity for pages of newspapers. Once that is done, they no longer talk about that issue, “said Mr. Sukhbir Sing Badal.


Mr. Badal described the PPCC had been reduced to the level of “idler’s club” “The PPCC leaders have outsourced even their elementary thinking processes to their press note writers, who are generally a day behind the ruling alliance and prepare their responses only on the basis of what SAD-BJP leaders have said a day earlier. The issue of Wealth Tax on agriculture is just one example. They started rushing to their masters after exactly one week of the SAD expressing strong opposition to it. But even up to today, they haven’t bothered to understand the details and finer points of problem. They take their cue from what we say, and then re-word our responses, merely using negative forms of language to express their opposition to whatever we say, regardless of what the issue is. They feel somehow that they do not have to do any thinking on their own and all they have to do is to oppose whatever SAD-BJP say. Every day, they are seen busy trying to do the catching up with the SAD-BJP alliance, be it on the issue of wealth tax or any other issue.



Sarabjit critical; Pak officials dismiss report about sending him abroad

New Delhi, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Pakistani officials dismissed a report that a medical board was considering a proposal to send abroad Indi....
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New Delhi, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Pakistani officials dismissed a report that a medical board was considering a proposal to send abroad Indian death row convict Sarabjit Singh - comatose in a Lahore hospital after a brutal assault - for treatment.




The four-member medical board headed by Jinnah Hospital chief executive Mahmood Shaukat conducted a routine examination of Sarabjit on Monday morning, officials said. They rejected a media report that the board was mulling a proposal to send Sarabjit abroad for treatment. "No such proposal has been under consideration," an official of the health department of Punjab province said.




"In fact, the medical board has no mandate (to decide about sending Sarabjit abroad)," said the official, who did not want to be named as he was not authorised to speak to the media. The medical board is "minutely monitoring the patient" and Sarabjit is being given the "best treatment" at Jinnah Hospital, the official said.




The members of the medical board Shaukat, Postgraduate Medical Institute principal Anjum Habib Vohra, Jinnah Hospital neuro department head Zafar Chaudhry and King Edward Medical University neuro-physician Naeem Kasuri see Sarabjit's case as "major neurosurgical challenge", the sources said. Sarabjit, 49, sustained several injuries, including a skull fracture, when six prisoners attacked him in Kot Lakhpat Jail on Friday and doctors said his chances of survival are slim.

He was hit on the head with bricks and cut with sharp weapons. He is in a deep coma and on ventilator support in an intensive care unit of Jinnah Hospital. He was convicted of alleged involvement in a string of bomb attacks in Punjab province that killed 14 people in 1990. His mercy petitions were rejected by the courts and former President Pervez Musharraf.




The outgoing Pakistan Peoples Party-led government put off Sarabjit's execution for an indefinite period in 2008. Sarabjit's family says he is the victim of mistaken identity and had inadvertently strayed across the border in an inebriated state.






(JL/jR)



Indian National Lokdal Dal's political affairs committee meeting on April 30

Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): In order to finalize the next phase of jansampark campaign, INLD has called a meeting of party political....
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Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): In order to finalize the next phase of jansampark campaign, INLD has called a meeting of party political affair committee (PAC) in New Delhi on 30th April, in which the party will also discuss the issues like wealth tax on farmers and elecetion of seven Municipal Corporations to be held. In the meeting, MLA from Ellnabad, Chaudhary Abhay Singh Chautala and INLD state president Shri Ashok Arora along with members of PAC will participate and upcoming party strategy will be finalized. INLD will also discuss issues like the state’s worsening law and order condition, improper arrangements for lifting of wheat and not giving bonus to the farmers by Hooda government.




Ashok Arora, said that INLD has decided to oppose the wealth tax imposed on farmers. He said that the party’s Rajya sabha MP Ranbir Singh Prajapati will also raise this issue in parliament. He further said that this proposal of congress government is against the farmer’s and we will not accept this proposal at any cost. He also said that INLD will also aware the farmers about the disadvantages of this proposal and will start a campaign. According to him, Congress government is becoming a threat for the farmers and we will not tolerate this.




Arora further said that there is not any law and order in the state and public is losing its faith from the government and police due to the increasing incidents of murder, rape, kidnapping, extortion and gang rape and government is not taking any steps in stop such incidents. He said that now congress MLA’s and MP’s have also started blaming the government, as the government is selling jobs openly. INLD leader said that CM is trying to make fool of the public and is giving false statements. He also said that the party will actively participate in the upcoming elections of Municipal corporations and candidates with the clean image will be landed in the elections. He revealed that in tomorrow’s meeting, the strategy for elections as well as party’s next step for Janjagran abhiyan will be decided.






(JL/JR)



India to Pak : Punish attackers of Sarabjit; Send him back to India for treatment

New Delhi, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Based on the most recent medical bulletin put out by Doctors treating Sarabjit Singh it is clear that his ....
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New Delhi, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Based on the most recent medical bulletin put out by Doctors treating Sarabjit Singh it is clear that his condition remains critical. We share the anguish and concern of his family members, and our prayers will remain with them.




In view of the recent tragic events and present circumstances, we once again appeal to the Government of Pakistan to take a sympathetic and humanitarian view of this case, and release Sarabjit Singh. Officials of the Indian High Commission are in touch with the medical authorities at Jinnah Hospital Lahore and we would like to consider the option of transferring Sarabjit Singh to India so that he can benefit from the best medical treatment available here.




We also reiterate our demand that the attack on Sarabjit Singh be thoroughly investigated to identify those who were responsible and to ensure that they are punished. It is the responsibility of the Government of Pakistan to ensure the safety and security of all Indian prisoners in their custody. 






(JL/jR)



Yashvardhan Kumar Sinha to be next High Commissioner of India to Sri Lanka

New Delhi, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Govt. of India has appointed IFS 1981 batch Yashvardhan Kumar Sinha as the next High Commissioner of India....
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New Delhi, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Govt. of India has appointed IFS 1981 batch Yashvardhan Kumar Sinha as the next High Commissioner of India to the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka. He is expected to take up his assignment shortly.







(JL/JR)



Govt achieves breakthrough in stalemate in Parliament

New Delhi, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): The government achieved a breakthrough in the logjam in Parliament with the opposition agreeing to allow f....
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New Delhi, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): The government achieved a breakthrough in the logjam in Parliament with the opposition agreeing to allow financial business to be taken up on Tuesday.




The stalemate ended after a meeting of floor leaders of various parties convened by Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar. "All financial business will be taken up in Parliament tomorrow," Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kamal Nath told reporters after the meeting on Monday. He dismissed suggestions that Parliament would be adjourned sine die after passage of financial business. "There is no talk of adjourning Parliament sine die (before May 10)," he said.



Along with the Finance Bill, some other financial business pending include the Railway Budget and Demand for Grants of ministries.




"It is unfortunate that in the last five days Parliament did not run. I am optimistic and hopeful that the House will function," Nath had said before the Speaker's meeting.
BJP is demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Law Minister Ashwani Kumar on the issue of CBI's report to the Supreme Court on coal block scam. 15 JPC members of opposition parties have expressed "no confidence" in Chairman P C Chacko and have sought his removal by the Speaker on the 2G draft report, giving a clean chit to the Prime Minister and the Home Minister. Talking to reporters after the meeting with political parties, Nath termed as "unfortunate" the repeated adjournment of Parliament.




He said, "Political parties and all of us have to remember that Parliament is not of the Government, Parliament is not of the Congress party, Parliament is of all MPs and of all political parties."



"All that can be said outside, all demands which can be made outside can be made on the floor of the House. That is the basis and genesis of the Parliamentary democracy," he said. Asked about the fate of Food Security bill and Land Acquisition Bill, he said the two key legislations are "for the people of the country and anybody who blocks it is not doing a service" to them.






Parliament fails to function for 6th day over coal issue




For the sixth straight day, Parliament could not function properly on Monday because of ruckus created by Opposition which was demanding resignation of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh over coal block allocation issue and CBI affidavit on it.






Both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha saw uproar as soon as they met for the day, forcing their adjournment till noon, then till 2 PM and finally for the day. As soon as Lok Sabha assembled in the morning, BJP members led by Ganesh Singh and Sanjay Jaiswal trooped into the Well shouting slogans: "pradhan mantri isteefa do (Prime Minister resign)" and "koyele ki dalali hai, poori Congress kali hai (Congress is tainted in coal scam)". SP member Shailendra Kumar raised the issue of incursion by Chinese troops in Ladakh. "China is capturing the whole country," he said, prompting his party members to troop into into the Well to protest on the issue.




"The country is in grave danger," Saroj Toofani (SP) said amid din, while his party colleague Neeraj Shekhar shouted that Chinese troops were well inside the Indian territory. Congress members from Telangana region held placards demanding formation of a separate state. They stood in the aisle. As the din continued, Speaker Meira Kumar adjourned the House till noon.



Similar scenes were witnessed when the House re-assembled with BJP members resuming slogan-shouting.In the din, Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav voiced concern over the Chinese troops intruding up to 19 km in Ladakh region and targeted the government for not dealing with it properly. The former Defence Minister, whose party is extending crucial support to the UPA, accused the government of behaving in a "cowardly and incompetent" manner and said it was "good for nothing".






(JL/jR)



Kamalnath: Finance Bill to be taken up in Parliament tomorrow

New Delhi, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kamalnath today said that the Finance Bill will be taken up in the Lok Sabh....
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New Delhi, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kamalnath today said that the Finance Bill will be taken up in the Lok Sabha tomorrow. He was talking to media persons after a meeting of the UPA floor leaders.





(JL/JR)



A K Poddar appoint CVO in CONCOR, New Delhi

New Delhi, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Govt. of India has appointed A K Poddar, IPos (87) as Chief Vigilance Officer in the Container Corporation....
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New Delhi, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Govt. of India has appointed A K Poddar, IPos (87) as Chief Vigilance Officer in the Container Corporation of India (CONCOR), New Delhi under the Ministry of Railways. The officer will have the option to draw his pay in the pay scale of Joint Secretary to the Government of India plus deputation allowance, if admissible, or pay of the post.





(JL/jR)



Badal owes an explanation to the people for unfortunate happenings in Darbar Sahib Complex: CPI(M)

Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Comrade Charan Singh Virdi Secretary Punjab State Committee CPI (M) has issued the following statement t....
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Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Comrade Charan Singh Virdi Secretary Punjab State Committee CPI (M) has issued the following statement to the press here today.




CPI(M)feels that all communal harmony loving and patriotic people of Punjab are shocked to know that memorial Gurdwara constructed in Darbar Sahib Complex Amritsar bears a stone plaque with an engraving which reads as follows: “Memorial in the memory of 14th head of Damdami Taksal Martyr Saint Giani Jarnail Singh ji Khalsa Bhindranwale and all martyrs of 1984.”




To our mind all such peace loving and patriotic people also feel that this unfortunate happening is not only breach of promises and trust on the part of Shiromani Akali Dal and SGPC leadership but also likely to disturb communal harmony and peace in the state.




We also feel that Chief Minister Shri Parkash Singh Badal and Sh. Sukhbir Singh Badal who are patron and president of Akali Dal and also Avtar Singh Makkar who is SGPC President owe an explanation to the people and should remedy and repair the worrysome situation. promptly. CPI(M) appeals to the people that they should maintain peace and communal harmony.





(JL/jR)



ETT Teachers Union to stage protest on May 6 at district headquarters

By Harish Dido




Feozepur, April 29 : The Punjab ETT Teachers Union in its meeting held at Ferozepur today have decided ....
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By Harish Dido




Feozepur, April 29 : The Punjab ETT Teachers Union in its meeting held at Ferozepur today have decided to organize protest at all the district headquarters in the state on May 6, 2013 for nor implementing the decisions taken amicably in the meeting with the Chief Minister, Punjab, like declaring of Zila Parishad Directorate, transfer of teachers on seniority basis, CP and State cadre, 4-9-14 cases and other service benefits, for which the directions have been issued number of times but the same are not being implemented.




The Union leader, Jagmeet Chugha, senior vice president, giving a warding to the government said that in case their demands are not met immediately, the gehrao of Panchyat Minister, Surjit Singh Rakhra, would be made on May 26, 2013. The ‘parvesh project’ launched by Sarv Sikhiya Vibhag would only be implemented if the government honour its commitment made with the teachers.








(Jl./jR)



Unfortunate incidents are happening in India, due to weak Indian foreign policy : Kamal Sharma

By Harish Dido




Ferozepur/Fazilka , April 29 : ‘The incident of attack on Sarbjit Singh in Kot Lahpat ....
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By Harish Dido




Ferozepur/Fazilka , April 29 : ‘The incident of attack on Sarbjit Singh in Kot Lahpat Jail in Pakistan, by the inmates, is the result of weak Indian foreign policy with the results the incidents like beating of Sarbjit Singh, murder of fishermen ad other unfortunate incidents are occurring and India is being recognized in the eyes of world as ‘weak nation’. The policy of center government on inflation and corruption has become totally flopped”, said Kamal Sharma, President, Punjab BJP while addressing to the media persons at a press conference organized at Zila Parishad at Fazilka.




On this occasion, Surjit Singh Jiyani, MLA Fazilka and State Forest and Labour Minister, Sandeep Rinwa, State Secretary BJP, Sita Ram Sharma, President, Anil Sethi, Council Presdient, Manoj Tripathi, Circle BJP President, Surinder Jairath, President, Bhartiya Janta Youth Morcha and Ashok Bharti, District President and various BJP leaders, were present.




In reply to the question about the memorial constructed in the Golden Temple complex at Amritsar , he said, “ Punjab has suffered a lot for a long period in which about 25,000 had become a victim of terrorism”.





He further appealed to all to restrain from the things which could spoil the peace and harmony of Punjab and the Blue Star Memorial inaugurated in the Golden Temple complex is under the control of SGPC.




Kamal Sharma also said, “In protest against the levying of wealth tax on agriculture land within the radius of 8 KMs of urban areas, the BJP will protest at all district headquarters on May 3 for which a assembly session has also been called on May 3. In small state like Punjab , with the implementation of this notification, about 70 percent of land will come under wealth tax which will disturb the economic condition of the farmer’s community.




Sharma said, the tax is being levied under pressure from the centre government but he assured that the tax will be minimum and simple but it is necessary for the development of urban and rural areas and this time the BJP-SAD alliance has come into power for the second time after 46 years on the issue of development during the elections and tax is the necessary for the development projects in the state.




In reply to the ‘tug-of-war’ between his and former BJP MLA supporters at Ferozepur, he said, “It is not the issue between him and former MLA but in fact, it was a controversy between the party workers for which he has already spoken to the SSP Ferozpepur for constituting an investigation team.




For ignoring the Amritsar BJP MLA Navjot Singh Sidhu, he said, now a days, Sidhu is busy in IPL matches and the issue has already been discussed with party President Rajnath Singh and in case the Sidhu is again given the party ticket for contesting the election from Amritsar , he will given a full support by the party.






(jL/.Jr)



Sundar Lal Tagda becomes 204th Eye Donor at Fazilka

By Harish Dido




Faizlka, April 29: The newly formed Fazilka District has become famous for topping in ....
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By Harish Dido




Faizlka, April 29: The newly formed Fazilka District has become famous for topping in eye donations after death. The Social Welfare Society is contributing a big role in motivating the people of the area to come forward for donating the eyes after death which can give light to two persons at a time.




Giving this information, Raj Kishore Kalra, President of the NGOs and Surain Lal Kataria, Project Incharge said with the motivation of daughter-in-law Swadesh Kumar, principal of Govt. Senior Secondary School, the eyes of Sundar Lal Tagdia were donated to the Eye Bank and he becomes the 204th donor from Fazilka and so far 408 perons have been transplanted the eyes to see this beautiful world.







(JL/JR)



Punjabi University Patiala celebrates World Dance Day

Patiala, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): The Dance Department of Punjabi University, Patiala celebrated the World Dance Day with great zeal and fervo....
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Patiala, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): The Dance Department of Punjabi University, Patiala celebrated the World Dance Day with great zeal and fervour at the Universty’s Kala Bhawan here today. The main attraction of the show was Quincy Charles, a Kathak dancer, whose roots are from West Indies, brought up in the U.K. and presently residing in New Delhi. He got a standing ovation from the audience for his excellent performance.




The alumni of the department, including Shubhra Aurora, Vimpy Parmar, Mansi Saxena, Vishal Thakur, Seemrit, Simarjot, Sheetal Jai Sharma gave out mesmerizing performances besides other artists from Gurgaon, Delhi, Shimla, Ludhiana and Patiala. Besides them, a professional Kathak dancer, Deepak Aurora, disciple of Guru Rajender Gangani unleashed an excellent performance.




Vice-Chancellor, Dr Jaspal Singh, along with his wife, Dr Jagjit Kaur enjoyed and appreciated the performances executed by different artistes. Dr. Jaspal Singh said that the department of dance celebrated the occasion in the best possible manner by inviting international artistes from the U.K. to perform. He felicitated the artists with mementos and also released a book titled "Glimpses of Indian Classical Dances", written by Dr. Arohi Walia. Earlier, Dr. Daisy Walia, HoD, welcomed the guests and delegates.





(JL;/jR)



No wealth tax on farm land, Chidambaram assures Haryana Hooda and Partap Bajwa

Chandigarh, April 29(BB)--The Union Finance Minister, Mr P. Chidambaram,has given the assurance that no wealth tax would be imposed on the agricultura....
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Chandigarh, April 29(BB)--The Union Finance Minister, Mr P. Chidambaram,has given the assurance that no wealth tax would be imposed on the agricultural land in the country.The assurance was given by FM to a delegation of the congress MPs led by Haryana CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda and PCC president Partap Singh Bajwa in Delhi today.Both of them issued separate statements claiming the credit of this achievement.
Haryana Chief Minister, Mr Bhupinder Singh Hooda said ,
“The Finance Minister has assured that he will make a
statement on the floor of the House while replying to the Finance Bill
and no wealth tax will be imposed on agricultural land, whether within
the municipal limit or outside the municipal limit”, Mr Hooda who led
a delegation to FM, said.
Concerned over the move to impose wealth tax on farm land, Mr
Hooda had taken the initiative of leading a high-level Congress
delegation of Union Ministers, MPs and MLAs from Haryana, Punjab,
Rajasthan, Orissa and Delhi, to the Finance Minister.

The delegation included Union Information and Broadcasting Minister,
Mr Manish Tewari, Union Minister of State for External Affairs Mrs
Preneet Kaur, Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) President Mr
Pratap Singh Bajwa, MPs namely Mr Bhakta Charan Das, Mr Sandeep
Dikshit, Mr Deepender Singh Hooda, Dr Ram Parkash, Mr Vijender
Singla, Ms Jyoti Mirdha, Ms Santosh Chaudhary, Mr Ravneet Bittu, Mr
Shadi Lal Batra, AICC Secretary and MP Mr Harish Chaudhary, Punjab
Leader of Opposition, Mr Sunil Jakhar, and MLA Mr Jagmohan Singh Kang.
The delegation submitted a representation urging the Union Finance
Minister on behalf of the Indian National Congress to ‘intervene for
withdrawal of the proposed amendment, and issue a clarification to
the effect that urban land does not include agricultural land, and no
wealth tax is liable to be paid’.
The delegates also requested Mr Chidambaram to issue administrative
directions to the Income Tax Department not to issue fresh notices
seeking payment of wealth tax qua agricultural land.
Mr Hooda said Mr Chidambaram reiterated that the UPA Government was
Committed to the policy of protecting the interests of the farmers and
therefore, nothing would be done against their interests, and, if
necessary, due procedure would be adopted so that no wealth tax is
imposed on agricultural land.
Mr Hooda thanked the UPA Chairperson, Mrs Sonia Gandhi, Prime Minister
Dr Manmohan Singh and Finance Minister Mr P. Chidambaram on behalf of
the farmers of the country for not imposing any wealth tax on the
agricultural land.
PPCC President Pratap Singh Bajwa also thanked Mrs Sonia Gandhi, Dr
Manmohan Singh and Mr Chidambaram on behalf of the farmers of Punjab.
He also thanked the Haryana Chief Minister for taking up the farmers’
cause.
Later, replying to a question, Congress MP Mr Deepender Singh Hooda
said that the Union Finance Minister would speak in the House to quell
any misunderstanding on the issue.



No Wealth Tax will be imposed on agri land: Chidambaram



Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Punjab Congress President Partap Singh Bajwa today said that Union Finance Minister P. C....
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Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Punjab Congress President Partap Singh Bajwa today said that Union Finance Minister P. Chidambram has given an assurance that Wealth Tax will not be imposed on agriculture land. Bajwa along with Haryana Chief Minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda and party MPs today met P Chidmabram in Delhi.



Bajwa said that Union Finance Minister has also issued instructions to Income Tax department to keep in abeyance if any notices for wealth tax were issued to farmers.
Bajwa thanked UPA Chair person Sonia Gandhi, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and Chidambram for giving much desired relief to the farming community. He said that he had earlier met the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and FM and demanded to withdraw the proposal to impose wealth tax.



Mr.Bajwa said that with the acceptance of demand of not imposing Wealth Tax, the special session of Punjab Vidhan Sabha summoned by SAD-BJP government has become redundant. He said that it was victory of Congress party that fought for the cause of farming community. At the end of the day, the state congress leadership has delivered whatever promises it made to the people of Punjab. Bajwa further said that congress stood by the farmers in the past and will always fight for their rights. He stated that SAD had blown the whole issue out of proportion to make political capital out of it.




Bajwa asked the Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal to discuss other important issues in the Vidhan Sabha session like deteriorating law and order situation and emergence of communal forces in Punjab. He said that SAD-BJP government was running away from debate on issues of public interest including the unprecedented hike of 80 percent of power during last six years, imposition of property tax, the illegal mining, withdrawal of free education facility to girls, non-payment of old age and widow pensions and Shagun scheme money for the last two years.



Bajwa said that SAD was unnecessary trying to rake up the issue of Wealth Tax to divert the attention of people from other problems. He challenged the SAD-BJP government to discuss in Vidhan Sabha, the election promises made by it with the people and their implementation.



Punjab to launch mobile van service for animal husbandry

Chandigarh April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): In order to brace the rural base of the animal husbandry sector, the Punjab government would launch distri....
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Chandigarh April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): In order to brace the rural base of the animal husbandry sector, the Punjab government would launch district level Mobile van service in twenty districts to cater to the needs of the livestock farmers in the remote rural areas of the state.


This was stated here today by Gulzar Singh Ranike Animal Husbandry, Fisheries and Dairy Development Minister Punjab in a seminar organized by the Punjab State Veterinary Council in collaboration with Punjab state Veterinary Officers’ Association to mark the World Veterinary Day held here today.


Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that the Punjab government has taken adequate measures to provide quality animal health services and strengthening of disease diagnostic facilities across the state. With a view to strengthening the Veterinary services in Punjab, the Minister said that an amount of Rs. 20 crore would be spent to upgrade 209 Veterinary Hospitals and 372 dispensaries during the current financial year. He also said that an amount of Rs. 24. 73 crore would be spent on 48 tehsil and block level hospitals, setting up of the Regional Training Centre Jallandhar and up gradation of 800 Veterinary dispensaries in the state.

Ranike also said that for strengthening of Semen Bank Nabha and for progeny testing Murrah buffalo bull, a grant of Rs 32.88 crore had been approved out of which the first installment of Rs. 6.73 crore has been released which would give standard lift to the cow & buffalo breed improvement programme thereby increased production of milk, he added.



Ranike directed the Veterinary doctors to visit at least three days in the rural areas and identify the educated unemployed youth and motivate them to adopt the highly lucrative ventures of animal husbandry sector which would be instrumental in improving the livelihood of the poor people in the villages. This sector is contributing silently but sufficiently to the national economy in the past, said the Minister. He also emphasized the need to give more boost to this sector as it has tremendous scope for development to increase the production and productivity from animal origin in the form of milk, meat eggs, and wool and so on.



Punjab Governor summons assembly session on May 3


Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): The Governor of Punjab, Shivraj.V.Patil has summoned the fourteenth Punjab Vidhan Sabha to meet f....
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Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): The Governor of Punjab, Shivraj.V.Patil has summoned the fourteenth Punjab Vidhan Sabha to meet for its fifth session on May 3 ,2013 at 10 A.M. in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha Hall, Vidhan Bhawan, Chandigarh. This was disclosed by the Secretary of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha, Ved Parkash.



Badal confers Maharaja Ranjit Singh awards to 67 outstanding sportspersons

Badal assures to set aside 125 jobs for players every year

Calls upon veterans to adopt one village each

Punjab to launch Sport....
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Badal assures to set aside 125 jobs for players every year

Calls upon veterans to adopt one village each

Punjab to launch Sports Talent Hunt soon

By Gagandeep Sohal

CHANDIGARH, APRIL 29: Mr. Parkash Singh Badal, Chief Minister, Punjab today launched a major initiative to provide job security to the outstanding players by setting aside 125 jobs every year exclusively for National and International Players.





Addressing the players in a glittering function organised to confer Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award, Mr. Badal recalled that he thought of introducing this award after seeing the condition of former Olympic player, who was grazing the animals in those days. Horrified by his condition he announced Rs. 1 lakh award for maximum 15 players annually with the social security setup.



Mr. Badal said that today while giving away prizes to the players he noticed that most of the players were looking for job security and he has agreed to the proposal of Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab to set aside minimum 125 jobs in different categories for the players and asked Deputy Chief Minister to submit the proposal in next Cabinet meeting.



Advising players not to leave sports after joining service, Mr. Badal said that they should dedicate first five years of their service to promote their games and nurture talent in the villages. He also requested veteran players to adopt at least one village for promotion of sports for which State Government would provide them total support.

Lauding the enthusiasm of Deputy Chief Minister for putting Sports Department at higher orbit, Mr. Badal said that for the first time in his 60 years old political career he has witnessed total transformation of Sports Department. He said that the way the Deputy Chief Minister has brought Kabaddi on the world forum, it has sent positive vibes all over the globe.

Asking Sports Officials to properly monitor the implementation of Government Schemes, Mr. Badal said that he would expect that every official goes to the field to supervise the implementation of the schemes and directed the Sports Department to work out a plan for constant maintenance of Sports Infrastructure.

In his own style, the Chief Minister said that politics also is a most difficult game, where you have to be cautious every minute for survival. He said that at least he also deserved a Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award in the ‘game of Politics’ for being Chief Minister of Punjab for five terms. He regretted increasing vendetta in politics, where leaders of other parties were being viewed as enemies. He said that he failed to understand the politics of today where a brother is opposing his brother in politics and it has also polluted the sacred relationship of brother and sister. He also said that we the politicians of old school don’t understand this degeneration in polity.

Earlier addressing the sportspersons, the Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal said that he was moving with the focused approach to uplift the sports department. He said that Punjab would setup Institute of Sports Excellence at Mohali next month with its sub-centres at Amritsar, Jalandhar, Bathinda and Mohali. The Sports Department would engage the services of foreign coaches to nurture sports talent and budding players’ right from primary schools would be provided boarding, loading, scientific training, diet, kits and all other facilities till they are trained to compete an international event. He said that Sports Department would launch a systematic talent hunt in the villages and thanked Chief Minister for launching a Job Security Plan for the sportspersons.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, Member Rajya Sabha and President Punjab Olympic Association recalled the efforts of Mr. Parkash Singh Badal and Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal for taking care of interests of the players.

As many as 67 outstanding sportspersons from different sports disciplines were conferred the highest state sports award --- Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award here today. The prestigious sports award, instituted in 1978, carries cash prize money of Rs.2 lakh, a trophy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh astride horse back in warrior dress, a blazer with pocket, a tie and a scroll of honour. The last time this award was distributed was in 2004. With distribution of prizes on April 29, the number of awardees are 191, including 67 from year 2005 to 2010. The awardees today included 10 outstanding players of year 2005, 9 of 2006, 14 of 2007, 14 of 2008, 9 of 2009 and 11 players of 2010.

It may be added that the Award is given to 15 outstanding players every year on the basis of their performance in the preceding five years. One Award each in the disciplines of cricket, circle kabaddi and physically handicapped Games is also given.

Eyes of every person got moist as the widow of Naunidh Singh who died recently came to receive award accompanied by her two children.

The players who got award for 2005 included Sunaina (Weightlifting), Puneet Rana (swimming), Gurminder Singh (weightlifting), Parvinder Kaur (judo), Sukhjinder Singh (weightlifting), Maha Singh (athletics), Anjana (handball), Kanwaljit Singh (cycling), Sukhbir Singh (athletics), Rampal Singh (rowing).

The players who got award for 2006 included Navjot Channa (judo), Amritpal Singh (athletics), Prabhjit Singh (cycling), Gurmeet Singh (athletics), , Kuldeep Kaur (handball), Arun Singh (boxing), Rupinder Kaur (boxing), Gurcharan Singh (w’lifting).

The players who got award for 2007 included Avneet Kaur Sidhu Hundal (shooting), Harveen Sarao (shooting), Rajwinder Kaur Gill (athletics), Gurpreet Kaur (cycling), Harpreet Singh (cycling), Karamjeet Kaur (fencing), Jagdeep Singh (basketball), Ruchi Trikha (fencing), Yadwinder Singh (basketball), Shingara Mattu (taekwondo), Sukhdev Singh (handball), Pawan Kumar (handball), Gaurav Sehgal (handball), Sachin Choudhary (handball).

The players who got award for 2008 included Amanpreet Singh (shooting), Kulwinder Kaur (cycling), Abhishek Rana (cycling), Sarabjit Singh (cycling), Gurpreet Singh (cycling), Jaswinder Singh (equestrian), Rajinder Kaur(cycling), Amandeep Singh (cycling), Talwinder Singh (equestrian), Meenkshi D/o Tersem Singh (gymnastics), Neeraj Sawhney (cycling), Talwinderjit Singh (basketball), Raghu Kumar (handball), Kulwinder Singh (handball).

The players who got award for 2009 included Jashandeep Kaur (gymnastics), Yashpal Solanki (judo), Kamalpreet Sharma (cycling), Sarbjeet Kanda (w’lifting), Shamsher Pratap Singh (athletics), Navjot Kaur (fencing), Mohinder Singh Rawat (handball), Raj Kumar (handicapped, badminton), Balbir Singh Kular (hockey).

The players who got award for 2010 included Navdeep Kaur Dhillon (shooting), Surpreet Singh (cycling), Menakshi (gymnastics), Rambir Singh (wrestling), Amrinder Singh (archery), Harpreet Singh (athletics), Baljit Singh (handball), Gurbaj Singh (hockey), Kiranjeet Kaur (basketball), Amandeep Singh (boxing) and Virpal Kaur (kabaddi)

Prominent amongst those present on the occasion included Mr. Sikander Singh Maluka, Education Minister, Mr. N.K. Sharma, Chief Parliamentary Secretary, Mr. Pargat Singh MLA, Mr. Tota Singh and Capt. Balbir Singh Bath (Retd), both Former Ministers.



Punjab & Haryana HC condoles demise of Justice Reddy

Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab and Haryana High Court today convened a Full Court Reference to condole the sad demise of note....
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Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab and Haryana High Court today convened a Full Court Reference to condole the sad demise of noted Justice, jurist and legal luminary Justice O. Chinnappa Reddy, Former Judge of Punjab and Haryana High Court and Supreme Court of India, in which all the judges of High Court took part.


While sharing the grief, the Acting Chief Justice of Punjab and Haryana High Justice Jasbir Singh said that Justice Reddy was a symbol of simplicity, dedication and commitment and was also known for his high professional caliber. He described the sad demise of Reddy as a huge loss to the legal fraternity.

Acting Chief Justice further said that the legal fraternity has lost a great human being and legal luminary.
The other dignitaries, who paid tributes to the departed soul included; Mr. Ashok Aggarwal and Mr. Hawa Singh Hooda, both Advocate Generals of Punjab and Haryana respectively, Dr. Anmol Rattan Sidhu, Chairman, High Court Bar Association and Mr. Iqbal Singh Saggu, Vice President, Bar Council of Punjab and Haryana. It is pertinent to mention here that Justice Reddy expired on April 13, 2013 at Hyderabad.



Badal making political capital out of farmers' plight: Amarinder


Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Former Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh today accused the Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal o....
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Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Former Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh today accused the Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal of trying to make political capital out of the farmers’ plight by asking them (the farmers) to reach Punjab Vidhan Sabha on Friday for the special session to protest against the wealth tax on agriculture land within 8 km municipal radius.


The former Chief Minister said, if Badal was really serious and sincere towards farmers, he should better go and meet the Prime Minister and the Union Finance Minister. “Holding an assembly session on an issue which is not within its (assembly’s) jurisdiction will amount to either making a fool of yourself or the poor farmers whose cause you claim to protect”, he remarked.


Capt Amarinder said, Badal was simply playing politics by convening a special session of the Vidhan Sabha when he knew that the Vidhan Sabha had no jurisdiction or authority about the wealth tax on agriculture land.
He said, unlike the Water Treaties Abrogation Act which could be passed in the Vidhan Sabha and implemented, the issue of wealth tax is within the jurisdiction of the government of India and ministry of finance and the state assembly cannot do anything about it.



HC notice to Chandigarh Admin in Dr Navpreet Kaur case


Chandigarh, April 29 (babusahi.com bureau): The Punjab and Haryana High Court issues notice to U.T. Chandigarh Administration, its Home Secre....
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Chandigarh, April 29 (babusahi.com bureau): The Punjab and Haryana High Court issues notice to U.T. Chandigarh Administration, its Home Secretary, as well as IGP, U.T. Chandigarh, Sub- Inspector of Police- Paramjit Kaur, and Ranjit Singh, accused, in a writ petition filed by Dr. Navpreet Kaur, seeking high level inquiry, for fixing the responsibility of U.T. Chandigarh Police, in connection with planting a false incident of “Theft of Electricity” at her residence:-

Justice R.N. Raina of Punjab and Haryana High Court today issued notices for May 24th to U.T. Chandigarh Administration, its Home Secretary, as well as IGP, U.T. Chandigarh, Sub- Inspector of Police Paramjit Kaur, and Ranjit Singh, in a CWP filed by Dr. Navpreet Kaur of Sector 39.


The petitioner has stated that the High Court had issued an order on April 16th, directing the U.T. Chandigarh Police to ensure that life and liberty of the petitioner is not put to risk and threat at the hands of accused- Ranjit Singh. However, U.T. Police provided her security only for a few hours on each day during day time, and thereby facilitating an incident at her residence. Referring to the said incident, the petitioner stated that on April 25th, at about 1.30 P.M., on some oral complaint by some person, the officials of Engineering Department of Chandigarh conducted a raid and found a “Magnet” lying on electric meter of her house, and registered the case of “Theft of Electricity” against the mother of the petitioner.

In such circumstances, for avoiding an FIR to be registered against them, the petitioner’s mother had to pay an amount of 1.33 lakh by way of penalty etc. to the Engineering Department. The petitioner has expressed apprehension in the petition that unless U.T. Chandigarh Police ensures full compliance with interim order of April 16th and provides full security to the petitioner and her mother, there is every apprehension that similar false incidents may be created against them by the accused- Ranjit Singh, against whom, at the instance of the petitioner, an FIR under section 384 (extortion) and section 506 IPC (Criminal intimidation) has already had been registered at Police Station, Sector-39, Chandigarh. The said accused is repeatedly issuing her threats through SMS messages and otherwise also intimidating her in various manners. He had sent to her a message on March 26th, to the effect that “if any incident happens to you, I will not have any connection with that incident”. The petitioner, thereupon, sent the complaint to IGP, U.T. Chandigarh on April 24th, for registering another FIR against the said accused. The U.T. Police has not so far responded to that complaint.

In the meanwhile, as a counter blast, the accused has implicated the petitioner’s family in a false incident of “Theft of Electricity” .
The petitioner has, in the above CWP, prayed for conducting a high level inquiry by U.T. Chandigarh Administration, for fixing the responsibility of the U.T. Chandigarh Police, as it could not prevent the aforesaid incident, despite having been directed by the High Court to ensure protection to the life and liberty of the petitioner.

The petitioner has also referred to the role of Paramjit Kaur, Sub- Inspector of Police, Sector-36, Police Station, Chandigarh and alleged that the said police official has been pressuring her to compromise with the accused, instead of constructing on her role to provide security to the petitioner, as directed by the High Court.



Defective Practical note books: HC notice to Punjab govt



Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau) The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued notice to Punjab Secretary Education, Directo....
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Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau) The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued notice to Punjab Secretary Education, Director General School Education (Sarv Shikhsha Abhiyan Authority), Director, Secondary Education Punjab over a PIL pertaining to defective practical note books being supplied to students in Government Schools in Punjab:



A Division Bench of the High Court comprising Acting Chief Justice Jasbir Singh and Justice Rakesh Jain today issued notices for May 8 to Punjab Government, Secretary Education, Director General, School Education (Sarv SHikhsha Abhiyan Authority), Director, Secondary Education Punjab, and J.R. Printing Press Sangrur, in a PIL filed by retired Head Master, Om Parkash Goyal. The petitioner has in the aforesaid petition prayed for quashing an order dated March 15th, 2013 issued by Nodal Officer –CUM- District Education Officer, Mohali, vide which all the District Education Officers (Secondary Education) in Punjab were directed to ensure that the students purchase only practical note books approved by Director (secondary education) Punjab.



The petitioner has stated in his PIL that vide order dated August 30th, 2012, the Director Education Department (secondary education) had approved the practical note books of various subjects printed by J.R. printing press, Sangrur, without scrutinizing the quality of the material printed in those practical note books. Subsequently, the petitioner who is himself a retired Head Master, scrutinized 5 practical note books published by aforesaid Sangrur publisher and noticed that there were large scale irregularities therein. Many topics contained in the syllabus were not dealt with in those practical note books, while many topics which were not in syllabus, were covered. Many answers given in the practical note books were found to be incorrect.

The petitioner, there upon sent a legal notice to the various authorities of Education Department on February 22nd, seeking the setting up of some committee of subject experts for scrutinizing all those practical note books published by Sangrur publisher, and then to take appropriate action in the matter. In reply to the said notice, the Director Education Department (secondary education) Punjab, wrote a letter dated March 19th to advocate H.C. Arora, Counsel for the petitioner, stating therein that the practical note books had been got checked by his office from subject experts, and upon checking prima-facie, some deficiencies in printing were noticed, and therefore, show cause notices had been issued to the concerned publishers, and that therefore appropriate legal and effective action in the matter would be taken after considering the reply.

The petitioner alleged that despite coming to a conclusion that practical note books published by Sangrur publisher were defective, yet the said publisher has been circulating letter dated March 15th, 2013 sent by D.E.O. (secondary education) S.A.S. Nagar- CUM-Nodal Officer, to all the District Education Officers (secondary education) Punjab, directing them to ensure the supply of only the approved practical note books to students, failing which action would be taken against the concerned publishers. The petitioner alleged that certain officers under Kamal Kumar Garg, Director Secondary Education, Punjab, Mohali, were conniving with the publishers to give him undue benefit, since the academic session of the students has started from April 1st, and they have to purchase practical note books. The petitioner alleged that the aforesaid Nodal Officer working under Shri. Kamal Kumar, Director, Secondary Education, is himself monitoring the sale of practical note books in various Districts. The petitioner has stated that it would not be public interest to supply defective practical note books to the students, and that too, under compulsion.



SGPC resolution belies Makkar's claim: Dal Khalsa


Amritsar, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Justifying the martyr’s memorial build in Darbar Sahib Complex after the name of Sant Jarnail Singh....
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Amritsar, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Justifying the martyr’s memorial build in Darbar Sahib Complex after the name of Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindrawale and other martyrs of 1984 army assault code named Operation Blue Star, the Dal Khalsa said Baba Harnam Singh implemented the resolution of the SGPC adopted on May 3, 2012.

The organization slammed the SGPC and the SAD for reacting adversely on the issue now.



In a statement party head H S Dhami rubbishes the claims of SGPC head Avtar Singh Makhar that Damdami Taksal head Baba Harnam Singh has kept the SGPC into a dark about naming the memorial after Sant Bhindrawale.

Quoting from the resolution passed at meet of SGPC executive committee on 3rd May 2012, he said the resolution No 1474 itself states that this meeting of executive under the leadership of Pardhan Sahib authorizes Damdami Taksal head Baba Harnam Singh to raise the memorial near Akal Takht in memory of Sant Jarnail Singh and other martyrs who embraced martyrdom during army attack in 1984. (The copy of the resolution is attached herewith).

Dhami wondered as to why the SGPC and the SAD leadership was making hue and cry out of it when the executive committee itself has mentioned the name of Sant Bhindrawale in the resolution itself.



He asked the SGPC head Jathedar Avtar Singh to desist from making any mischief as some employees of the SGPC unsuccessfully attempted to uproot the History Board on the night of inauguration of the memorial. He said any such mischief by SGPC in future would not be tolerated.



He regretted that the SGPC was undoing the great task it had done in felicitating the Taksal to construct the memorial. He asked the SGPC to stop airing its differences of opinion and perception over the matter in public.




Hand over Sarabjit to India: Kairon appeals to Pak

Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Food and Civil Supplies Minister of Punjab, Adaish Partap Singh Kairon today pleaded the Government of Pa....
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Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Food and Civil Supplies Minister of Punjab, Adaish Partap Singh Kairon today pleaded the Government of Pakistan to hand over Sarabjit Singh to India for better treatment.


Kairon said that Sarabjit Singh is fighting for life and in this critical period, Pakistani authorities should send Sarabjit Singh to India on the humanitarian ground. He said that it would strengthen the bilateral ties between two countries and also give the message of peace. Sharing his sympathy with the Sarabjit Singh family, Kairon said that it was not possible for anyone to measure the sorrow and pain they have faced during the last two decades.


He also requested the Union Government of India, to take all possible steps to bring back Sarabjit Singh to India and also to make sure that he should get proper treatment in India. He also asked the Pakistan Government to release all the Indian prisoners, who had completed their tenure to give the message of harmony.
It may be mentioned here that a Resolution regarding the release of Sarabjit Singh had already been passed by the Punjab Vidhan Sabha few years back, which was introduced by Adaish Partap Singh Kairon .



Wealth tax to sound death knell of farmers: Badal


Says, matter is extremely critical



“The imposition of this tax would actually mean that no one can even afford to k....
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Says, matter is extremely critical



“The imposition of this tax would actually mean that no one can even afford to keep his land, leave aside carrying agricultural work on it. This would be the end agriculture, end of farming and end of farmers and others who earn their livelihood directly or indirectly through agriculture and agriculture allied work,’’ says Badal.


Chandigarh April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today called upon Congress Leadership in the state to ensure attendance of all Legislators of their Party in the special Session of the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on May 3 to oppose the imposition of Wealth Tax on agriculture land around urban areas, as this tax would sound the death knell of all farmers and of millions of others dependent on agriculture related professions.


The Chief Minister spoke to the Leader of the Opposition Sunil Jakhar and former Chief Minister Rajinder Kaur Bathal over the phone urging them to join the state government’s efforts to save the farmers and the economy from “certain death”. The PPCC president Mr. Partap Singh Bajwa could not be contacted immediately because of his engagements in Parliament Session in Delhi.
Chief Minister also written separate letter to top Congress Leaders in the State to request cooperation in the Punjab Government’s drive against the imposition of Wealth Tax on Agriculture Land in any form.
Badal has asked the Congress leaders to oppose the imposition of this tax on the floor of parliament also. “This is no time for political one-upmanship. This is indeed a historic hour and history and future generations will not forgive us if we are found lacking in moral courage and honest convictions and commitment to the welfare of our people. I am sure the Congress party would not stand in the way of the justice for the poor and suffering people who are going to be fatally by the Wealth Tax move. I request the Congress Leaders to ensure the presence of each and every member of the CLP in the session,” the Chief Minister told the PPCC leaders.



Badal said that far from being an issue fit for scoring political brownie points, the Wealth Tax on agriculture has become a question of life and death not only for the farmers of the state but also for millions of others engaged in agriculture-driven professions and commercial activity. We must act with statesmanship and demonstrate that the political class of the state would not let our poor and beleaguered people, especially the peasantry, farm labour, the arhtiyas and small and medium traders engaged in agriculture related works.
The Chief Minister made an impassioned plea for a united fight against the center’s decision on imposition of Wealth Tax on agriculture lands, saying that the tax would prove to be the death-warrant for the entire economy especially for farmers and farming-related professions.
The Chief Minister said that the issue of Wealth Tax on agriculture lands around urban areas would in fact cover practically the entire state, considering the stage and rate of growth of urbanization in the state. There is practically no land in the state that would not fall within eight kilometers of aerial distance from one or the other municipal, notified area committee or corporation towns.


The Chief Minister said that even a conventional and liberal interpretation of the Act showed that, on average, everyone owning any land in the state would have to pay Wealth Tax in the range of Rs. 30,000 to Rs 45,000 per acre per annum, and this could even go up to Rs. 70,000-Rs.100,000 in several cases. No farmer can afford to pay this tax as this amount exceeds even the wildest estimates of income from agricultural lands.

The imposition of this tax would actually mean that no one can even afford to keep his land, leave aside carrying agricultural work on it. This would be the end agriculture, end of farming and end of farmers and others who earn their livelihood directly or indirectly through agriculture and agriculture allied work.



Haryana BKU to protest for its demand of bonus & compensation

Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau) Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) Haryana has decided to launch state wide agitation against Haryana government f....
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Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau) Bhartiya Kisan Union (BKU) Haryana has decided to launch state wide agitation against Haryana government for not accepting their demand crop was not met by May 8.


While stating this here today in a press conference BKU Haryana president Gurnam Singh Chadunni said that as the chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda has turned a blind eye to our genuine demands the BKU and Kisan Sabha will jointly hold a Mahapanchayat at Rukhi village on Rohtak-Gohana road on coming 8 May to decide the further course of action of the agitation against the government.

“If the government will not accept our demand of Rs 300 per quintal bonus and a compensation of Rs 25000 per acre for damaged crops, the BKU and Kisan Sabha may start our agitation on May 8 by blocking Rohtak-Gohana road”, Chadunni said.

He added that the BKU will also stage protest outside chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda’s residence at Rohtak.



Chadunni also slammed chief minister Hooda for ignoring the issues of farmers saying, “The chief minister never gives importance to our demands as he can also announce bonus like the other states of Rajasthan, MP and Chattisgarh but he always tries to politicize our issues as he said that he has forwarded our demand to centre”



Replying to a question over the proposed Wealth Tax on farmers, he said that this law will ruin the farming community as they can not bear this burden. The BKU will soon launch a nationwide agitation against this anti-farmer step of the union government.



SAD ridicules Bajwa & Amarinder’s allegations on wealth tax


Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): The Shiromani Akali Dal ridiculed the contradictory statements of the Punjab Pradesh ....
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Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): The Shiromani Akali Dal ridiculed the contradictory statements of the Punjab Pradesh Congress Chief Partap Singh Bajwa and former Chief Minister Capt. Amarinder Singh on the imposition of wealth tax on agriculture land. On one hand Bajwa says that it is only a draft proposal but on the other side Capt. Amarinder Singh is demanding its withdrawl.

If it has not been imposed how does the demand for withdrawl arise ? This shows that leaders of the Congress party which has imposed this cruel tax on the nation are ill-informed of the situation.


In a statement released from the party head office here today, the SAD Secretary and Spokesman Dr. Daljit Singh Cheema said that first of all the Congress party should gracefully accept the blunder committed by it. The decision to impose wealth tax on the debt ridden peasantry amounts to signing the ‘death warrant’ of the farmers of the whole country. So the people of the state are astonished to see different postures adopted by two senior Congress leaders on a very sensitive issue concerning the future of the farmers. This shows that Congress has no time to sit back at home and to discuss the issue and understand the gravity of the situation. Instead, they are aimlessly busy countering the just and genuine statements of the SAD leaders.
Dr. Cheema reminded both the leaders that Punjab is the worst sufferer of the wealth tax as it was the only state in the country which has maximum area under the municipal limits. He said that more than 70 percent of the total agricultural land of the state falls within the 8 kms distance from the outer limits of Municipal bodies. He said that the Punjab farmers would be devastated if this tax is not withdrawn retrospectively without any delay.


The SAD leader said that people of the state are wise enough to understand the behaviour of the state Congress leaders who are finding it hard to justify the imposition of the tax by a government led by their own party. He said that wealth tax is another tool used by the Congress led UPA to loot the farmers of the country and this fact is known to Bajwa and Capt. Amarinder Singh also.


Dr. Cheema said that on the contrary, the SAD is firm in its resolve to force the Congress led UPA to withdraw this unwarranted ‘jajjiya’ imposed by it on the farmers and ready for any struggle needed to safeguard the interests of the farmers of the state as well as of the nation.





Delhi HC defers Sajjan's plea for May 15



New Delhi, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): The Delhi high court on Monday said further hearing is required in the plea of Congress le....
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New Delhi, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): The Delhi high court on Monday said further hearing is required in the plea of Congress leader Sajjan Kumar, who had challenged the trial court order framing charges against him in a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case related to the killings of six persons.



Justice Suresh Kait, who was scheduled to pronounce the on Monday, said that while dictating the judgement, this matter should be heard further.

Justice Kait fixed May 15 as the date for further hearing in the matter. The judgement was reserved in the case by the high court in December 2012.



The trial court is scheduled to pronounce the verdict on Tuesday in a similar case against Kumar and five others in which the former Outer Delhi MP is accused of instigating the mob to kill Sikhs in Delhi Cantonment area in New Delhi during the 1984 riots.

The CBI had filed two charge sheets against Kumar and others in January 2010 in the cases registered in 2005 on the recommendation of Justice GT Nanavati Commission which probed the sequence of events leading to the riots.



Chandigarh police to procure call, bank details of its inspector Amanjot


Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Chandigarh police have decided to procure call details and bank account details of its inspector....
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Chandigarh, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): Chandigarh police have decided to procure call details and bank account details of its inspector Amanjot and realtor Harish to ascertain the truth behind the allegations.


The police have registered a case of extortion, theft and criminal intimidation against inspector Amanjot Singh (39) on a complaint lodged by a city property dealer.
Amanjot, who is currently attached with Police Lines in Sector 26, was briefly questioned in connection of the FIR against him on Sunday and he reportedly denied all allegations. While DSP Vijay Kumar refused to comment, saying SHO Harjeet Kaur was asked to conduct the probe, IG R P Upadhyay said that to ascertain the location and presence of Amanjot at the time of occurrence of the crime, his tower location and call details will be obtained. Amanjot has reportedly denied forcefully taking away Harish's key."
When contacted, Amanjot said that if he had slapped the complainant and took Rs 3 lakh that belonged to him, why didn't he report the matter to the police the same day. A mistake in the FIR also came to light as Harish claimed, "I received a call from Amanjot at 9.30am and I gave a back call to him at 9.26am on April 27."



Haryana Congress is a private limited company: Cong MP Rao Inderjit


Kurukshetra, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): during his ongoing campaign against Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda’s biased develo....
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Kurukshetra, April 29 (babushahi.com bureau): during his ongoing campaign against Haryana chief minister Bhupinder Singh Hooda’s biased development Congress MP from Gurgaon, Rao Inderjit Singh, on Sunday termed the Haryana Congress a private limited company that has deviated from the path of public welfare.


Gurgaon MP and Haryana Insaaf Manch chief Rao Inderjit Singh made this eye opener speech while addressing a rally in Kurukshetra on Sunday. The MP said at a press conference that while CM Bhupinder Singh Hooda failed on all fronts, the central leadership did nothing. “I have remained a loyal Congress worker for the 35 years but I am pained to see that the party is acting like a private company. In fact, both the party and the Haryana government are being run like private entities,” he said. Rao Inderjit who is the son of late Haryana CM Rao Birender Singh, recently floated a non-political outfit — Haryana Insaaf Manch — and has been extremely critical of CM Hooda, openly accusing him of regional bias. However it was probably for the first time on Sunday that the Gurgaon MP used such harsh words against the party.



Blue star memorial inscriptions created fissures among SAD leadership and Baba Dhumma.

By Baljit Balli


Efforts are on to settle the issue amicably.
Chandigarh,April 28The prominent display of name o....
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By Baljit Balli


Efforts are on to settle the issue amicably.
Chandigarh,April 28The prominent display of name of Sant. Jarnail Singh Bhindrawale alongwith his eulogisation in the Blue Star Memorial inaugurated on Saturday, in Golden Temple complex in Amritsar has put the SAD and SGPC in an awkward situation. With this unusual development, there is restlessness in ruling Akali Dal circles.It has become a cause of embarrassment for the SGPC , the Supreme body in sikh religious affairs. On this issue the difference has been surfaced between SGPC and Baba Harnam Singh Dhumma of Damdami Taksal who was given the Karsewa of this memorial. As per information of Babushahi.com, SGPC officials are blaming Baba Dhumma of keping SGPC in dark and was not apprised of the inscriptions on the main gate of the memorial and steel board. It is also being whispered that this board has been displayed only after the inaugural ceremony of the memorial.


The babushahi.com also learnt that the SAD and SGPC has also expressed their displeasure with Baba Harnam Singh Dhumma but the SAD leadership does not want to antagonize Damdami Taksal .That is why efforts are on to amicably sort out this issue through mutual discussion between all the stakeholders.
It may be recalled that when this memorial was conceptualized, the BJP and Congress leadership had strongly opposed the move of construction of this memorial in memory of Martyrs of Saka 1984.


At that time the SAD took this stand that no name and photograph will be displayed and it will be in the form of Gurdwara with Parkash of Sri Guru Granth Sahib. It is also learned that SAD ruling party has also submitted its comments to the Ministry of Home Affairs Govt. of India when it conveyed its worry on this development. After the assurance given by the SAD , the Govt. of India has taken positive stand saying that it will not interfere on this issue. When this memorial was dedicated to the community on April 27, it has created fissures among SAD and Baba Harnam Singh Dhumma leading to various side issues like the failure of intelligence agencies of the centre and state government not conveying this development to their bosses in Chandigarh and Delhi.


It has also been learnt that during late last night some exchange of hot words between SGPC employees and some Damdami Taksal followers near the memorial over the steel board issue. . Meanwhile AISSF leader Karnail Singh Pir Mohammad alleged that the SGPC officials had reached the site with the intention of removing the board.
However SGPC officials denied of any such happenings




California Based NRI Jessie Singh offered free eye treatment for partially blind family of Muktsar

Chandigarh,April,28(BB): California based NRI and prominent businessman Jessie Singh have offered total free treatment of the eyes of the fami....
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Chandigarh,April,28(BB): California based NRI and prominent businessman Jessie Singh have offered total free treatment of the eyes of the family of Village Rupana , Distt Mukatsar whose all members have become partially blind. He said that the family can go to the Charitable Hospital of Sankara Foundation situated on Ludhiana- Ferozpur road at Vipul development before Haveli and get the treatment free of cost.
Being Partner in Business with Sankara Eye Foundation, Jessi Singh told Babushahi.com that he has already conveyed the message to the hospital for this purpose and not even a single penny will be charged from this family. He said that the hospital provides free services to the poorest of the poor .
Mr Jessie Singh further said he was very much perturbed after reading a news item in The Tribune issue of April 27 about the plight of this family who could not afford the treatment of their eyes due to poverty .It was disclosed that all the family members lost eye side one by one and became partially blind during the last couple of years.
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The Full text of the news carried by The Tribune dated 27-04-13 as under:
Loss of sight stares at poverty-stricken family
Archit Watts
Tribune News Service

Rupana (Muktsar), April 26
Apart from poverty, this Scheduled Caste family of five has had a bigger adversary in life. Over the past seven years, all of them have turned partially blind — one after the other.

It all began in 2006 when Raja (50), head of the family who is employed as a sweeper, took his eldest son Hansraj to the local Civil Hospital after he complained of low visibility. Doctors suggested a surgery but the family could not gather funds for it.

Hansraj was left to his fate. After him, other members of the family — Raja, his wife Ramwati, second son Vishal and daughter Rekha — too went to the hospital with the same complaint, only to end up meeting the similar fate.

All of them initially complained of blurred vision, a disease that later developed into white cataract. While doctors blame it on uncured multi-infections, the family considers it “a punishment of some sin committed unknowingly”.

“My children were normal like all others. They were studying in the village’s government school. All was well till they started complaining of low vision. After that, nothing went right,” says Raja, tears welling in his eyes. “Had I been rich, things may have been different,” he adds.
Doctors say the family members cannot get back more than 20-30 per cent of their vision. They fear a few of them may not be even that lucky.
Raja’s all hopes are now pinned on the free treatment being provided to his children by the Education Department. “The department officials took all of us to a private hospital in Banur where the doctors, about a fortnight ago, performed a surgery on the left eye of my daughter. But, they said they have little hope,” an anguished Raja narrates.

Dr Hem Lata, a member of the team looking after the family, says, “This seems to be a congenital disorder. All have white cataract in both their eyes. Even after treatment, they cannot get more than 20 to 30 per cent vision.”

Mystery strain
The family of five initially complained of blurred vision, a symptom that later developed into white cataract. While doctors blame it on uncured multi-infections, the family considers it “a punishment of some sin committed unknowingly”.













Haryana: online applications for HTET from April 30


Chandigarh, April 28 (babushahi.com bureau) Haryana School Education Board Bhiwani has issued online application procedure for Haryana Teacher....
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Chandigarh, April 28 (babushahi.com bureau) Haryana School Education Board Bhiwani has issued online application procedure for Haryana Teachers Eligibility Test (HTET) June 2013 which will commence from April 30, 2013. The relative information about it has also been made available on the website of the Board.


While stating this here today, a spokesman of the Board said that online application process would start from April 30, 2013 and the last date for submitting online application would be May 14, 2013. He said that last date for submission of application or examination fee to the authorised bank and filling the details of pre submitted fee in online application would be May 15. The last date for submission of confirmation page alongwith an attested copy of 10th class certificate and Board’s copy of payment challan (E-Challan) would be May 20, 2013.


He said that downloading of admit cards and hall tickets would start from May 25, 2013. All district coordination centres of the Board for submission of confirmation page alongwith an attested copy of 10th class certificate and board’s copy of payment challan (E-Challan) would remain open between April 30 and May 20, 2013 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. including Saturdays and Sundays. Roll number would not be send through post to eligible candidates.
Further information could be obtained from website www.hbse.ac.in or www.htet.nic.in.



UK Family Visitor Visa to have no right of appeal from 25 June

New Delhi, April 28(BB): The UK Home Office will remove the full right of appeal for family visitor visa applicants refused leave to enter the UK afte....
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New Delhi, April 28(BB): The UK Home Office will remove the full right of appeal for family visitor visa applicants refused leave to enter the UK after 25th June 2013.


This week on 25 April 2013 Royal Assent was given to a clause in the Crime and Courts Bill, published on 10 May 2012, which enables the Home office to ‘push’ the change through.


The Home Office said the abolition of the right to appeal against family visit visa refusals is expected to come into force on or soon after 25 June.


New ‘appeal arrangements’ will apply to anyone unfortunate enough to apply to enter the UK to visit a family member, on or after the implementation date, who is subsequently refused a visa. They will have no right of appeal.
The Home Office added:
‘By removing the right of appeal, we are bringing the family visitor visa in line with all other visitor visa categories.
‘Applicants who are refused can re-apply addressing the reasons for refusal instead of appealing. This will be quicker and cost less than an appeal.
UK Immigration Lawyer Harjap Singh Bhangal said "This will have a great impact on Punjabi's.

Last year the UK removed the right of appeal for uncles. aunts and first cousins however from June 25th 2013 they will also remove the right of appeal for parents, brothers and sisters who want to visit their relatives in the UK. Before if your visa had been refused then you could appeal to the UK Immigration Tribunal and in a lot of cases the decision of the Visa Officer was overturned by an Immigration Judge. However now the right of appeal is going to be taken away fully for family members. The best advice now is that if anybody is planning to apply to visit their relatives in the UK and think they might be refused then they should apply before 25th June 2013 so that at least they can appeal if they are refused. Also anybody planning to apply for a visa to visit their relatives in the UK should obtain proper advice from a proper qualified person who has qualifications in UK immigration law instead of being duped by uneducated and unqualified agents as if mistakes are made in applications there will not be a method to rectify them"


Bhangal also advised the UK Punjabi community to contact their respective MP's and complain against this change of law in order to put pressure on the UK Government to change their mind. Mr Bhangal also confirmed that he will be contacting the UK Immigration minister and UK Home Office Minister in this regard.



Sarabjit's family visits him at Lahore hospital


Lahore, April 28 (babushahi.com bureau): Pakistan has stopped consular access to Sarabjit Singh, the Indian prisoner who is at a Lahore hosp....
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Lahore, April 28 (babushahi.com bureau): Pakistan has stopped consular access to Sarabjit Singh, the Indian prisoner who is at a Lahore hospital in critical condition after being brutally attacked by a group of prisoners in jail on Friday, Indian government sources have said.

They said Indian diplomats are not being allowed to visit Sarabjit, who is in deep coma and on ventilator support at the state-run Jinnah Hospital.
The Pakistan government has reportedly said that consular access was allowed for a single meeting only, since the hospital is now being deemed a sub jail. The diplomats had visited Sarabjit late on Friday night.


India has asked Islamabad for regular access to Sarabjit, citing "humanitarian grounds." One or two members of Sarabjit's family will be allowed to stay with him at the hospital. "It is sad we have come to see him under the current circumstances. It is the second time I'm coming to see my father. I met him in jail the first time, now I am seeing him in hospital. I'm really sad but I will be happy to see my father," said his daughter Poonam Kaur.


India has offered all necessary medical assistance to Sarabjit, who, his lawyer said, is "in coma and is critical. 60 per cent of his brain is damaged... his backbone is broken."Sarabjit was assaulted at the Kot Lakhpat Jail, where he has been lodged since 1990, on Friday evening reportedly by six prisoners in his cell. They reportedly attacked Sarabjit with bricks and a blade.
Two prisoners have been booked for attempt to murder. Four jail officials, including the warden, have been suspended.



Rupee firms up by three paise to 54.19 against dollar



Chandigarh, April 28 (babushahi.com bureau): The Indian rupee firmed up further by three paise to 54.19 against the American currency....
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Chandigarh, April 28 (babushahi.com bureau): The Indian rupee firmed up further by three paise to 54.19 against the American currency in the late morning trade on persistent selling of dollars by banks and exporters in view of weakness of dollar overseas. Sustained capital inflows from foreign funds into equity market also boosted the rupee value against the dollar, a foerx dealer said.


The rupee resumed higher at 54.15 per dollar as against the last closing level of 54.22 per dollar at the Interbank Foreign Exchange, Forex Market and hovered in a range of 54.15 per dollar and 54.24 per dollar before quoting at 54.19 per dollar at 1040hrs.



Amarinder threatens Water Treaties Abrogation like action against Agri-tax



Chandigarh, April 28 (babushahi.com bureau): Adopting a tough posture against the imposition of wealth tax on agriculture land acros....
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Chandigarh, April 28 (babushahi.com bureau): Adopting a tough posture against the imposition of wealth tax on agriculture land across the country, former Punjab Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh today said that he will ensure that it is withdrawn come what may.


He said, he will be meeting the Congress president Sonia Gandhi, the Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh and the Finance Minister P Chidambaram to press for the withdrawal of this tax, which, he said, simply amounts to exaction reminding of the medieval periods.
“Punjab Congress has always watched the interests of the farming community and it will continue to do so now and in the future as well”, Capt Amarinder said in a strongly worded statement here today.


The former Chief Minister asserted that like in the past when his government enacted the Water Sharing Treaties Abrogation Act to save the waters of Punjab farmers, he was ready to go to a greater extent this time to ensure that the 1 per cent wealth tax imposed on the agriculture land within 8 km municipal limits is withdrawn.
Capt Amarinder said, farmers across the country in general and Punjab in particular were reeling under severe economic crisis and this tax will devastate them. He said, the Punjab farmers in particular, who have ensured food security for the entire country need special incentives. “They deserved to be rewarded and not penalised (with the tax)”, he remarked.


He maintained that the land holdings over the years have come down and the agriculture was no longer a profitable proposition and still the farmers were feeding the country. “Under such circumstances imposing tax on farmers will be disastrous”, he remarked, while adding, it is unfortunate that when the farming community needs incentives due to rising input costs it has been penalised and slapped with 1 per cent tax.


At the same time Capt Amarinder had a dig at Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal for trying to derive political mileage out of it. He pointed out, this is a countrywide problem as the tax has been imposed across India and not in Punjab alone as Mr Badal was trying to make it. “Badal is trying to make political capital out of it”, he remarked.




Bajwa: Akalis misleading people on wealth tax for political interests

Chandigarh, April 28 (babushahi.com bureau): PPCC President Partap Singh Bajwa today came heavily on Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) for misleading people ....
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Chandigarh, April 28 (babushahi.com bureau): PPCC President Partap Singh Bajwa today came heavily on Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) for misleading people on the issue of wealth tax and said that Akalis are spreading misinformation and holding protests only to make political capital out of a non-issue.


In a statement here today Bajwa said that the amendment in the law to impose wealth tax on agriculture land was merely a proposal and it has not been passed by the Parliament and assured the farmer community that Punjab Congress would not allow this proposal to be cleared.
The badals are merely trying to create panic by spreading rumours that IT dept has started issuing notices for collection of wealth tax from farmers. He clarified that, IT has issued few notices to only specific individuals based in Jalandhar pursuant to a Supreme Court Judgment (in the case of Gurdip Singh Nagra ) limited to these individuals alone which relates to an amendment as far as 1993 and not the current proposed amendment.


The Congress has interests of farmers on top priority and PPCC is very clear on its priorities, he stated.
PPCC President said that PPCC unanimously opposed the proposed amendment. The people of Punjab especially the farmer community should be rest assured that he is completely with them and they shall not be exposed to this added burden. No farmer is being asked to pay on the basis of this proposed amendment, he added and said proposed amendment will be withdrawn at all costs
He said that he would be meeting AICC President Mrs. Sonia Gandhi on Monday to let her know the stand of Punjab Congress.


He said that. P.Chidambram is already seized of the matter. "Being a farmer myself, I appeal to farmers not to panic, wealth tax will not be imposed, he gave a firm assurance



Badal accuses Congress for misleading weaker sections for political gains



Syas, UPA government has failed on all the fronts


Vows to vehemently oppose the wealth tax


Reit....
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Syas, UPA government has failed on all the fronts


Vows to vehemently oppose the wealth tax


Reiterates commitment of state government ensure welfare of weaker sections of society


Jalandhar, April 28 (babushahi.com bureau): Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today slammed the Congress party for misleading the poor and downtrodden sections of the society in order to fulfill its vested political interests.


Addressing a mammoth gathering during the state level function organized by the Aadi Dharam Samaj (AADHAS) to celebrate the birth anniversary of Baba Saheb Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar here today, the Chief Minister said that instead of formulating the policies for the development of the weaker sections of society the Congress has always deceived them by depriving them of their legitimate rights and by devising pro-rich policies. He said that it was the policy of the Congress to deny basic facilities to weaker sections of the society but by raising slogans like ‘Garibi Hatao’ it has always shown ‘Green pastures’ to them for achieving its vested political goals. Mr Badal said that the net result of all these anti-poor policies of the Congress party was that the nation was confronting numerous social maladies like Poverty, inflation, corruption, illiteracy and others despite of the fact that the nature has blessed our country with a bounty of productive natural resources.


Training his guns against the Congress led UPA government at the centre, the Chief Minister pointed out that the Union government has miserably failed on all the fronts adding that today due to the wrong policies of the Union government the security of the country was in deep peril, as two of our neighboring countries China and Pakistan were posing a major danger to its sovereignty. Mr Badal further said that even the Union government has totally failed in checking the smuggling of drugs through the borders, which was ruining the youth of the country and creating a major law and order problem.
The Chief Minister categorically said that the Ministers of the Union government have amassed huge wealth by plundering the tax payer’s money through scams like Common Wealth games, 2G, Adarsh Housing Society and others. He said that the money collected through such scams, which have became the order of the day, could have ensured the welfare of people of Punjab for many successive years. However Mr Badal said that in order to evade any action the Congress leaders have stashed their black money illegally in the foreign banks due to which the Union government was not making any attempt to bring this money back.


Reiterating that the Congress was meting out step motherly treatment with the state, the Chief Minister said that the imposition of the Wealth Tax on farmers was the conspiracy of the UPA government to crush the peasantry of Punjab, which was the backbone of agrarian economy of the state. Mr Badal vowed that the Shiromani Akali Dal would leave no stone unturned to assure that the Union government revokes its decision to levy this tax on the farmers. He further said that even the faulty criteria of devolution of Central taxes have always deprived the state of its legitimate right to get more funds for development under the central grants.
Paying rich tributes to Baba Saheb Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar, the Chief Minister said that as the Chairman of Drafting Committee of the Constituent assembly Dr Ambedkar framed a perfect constitution adding that no one could have performed this duty well then Baba Saheb. He said that the life and philosophy of Dr Ambedkar was a lighthouse for the coming generations as fighting against all the odds Baba Saheb not only brought a revolution by championing the cause of weaker sections of society but also did a commendable work for the emancipation and empowerment of women. Mr Badal said that a great visionary, Baba Saheb Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar, fought vehemently for getting the voting right for weaker sections of society thereby opening new avenues of attaining political power for them.


The Chief Minister further said that following the footsteps of Baba Saheb Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar, the SAD-BJP alliance government has taken path breaking initiatives for ensuring the welfare of the weaker sections of the society. He said that the SAD-BJP government was the only government in the country which had started Atta-Dal Scheme, Mai Bhago Vidya Scheme, Shagun Scheme and others for well being of the downtrodden and weaker sections of the society.


Earlier in his address Chief of AADHAS Darshan Rattan Raavan recalled the great contribution of Baba Saheb Dr Bhim Rao Ambedkar in the upliftment of the people belonging to Scheduled Caste Communities. He said that throughout his life Dr Ambedkar had fervently fought for safeguarding the rights of the weaker sections of the society. He also lauded the role of the SAD-BJP alliance under the stewardship of Chief Minister Mr Parkash Singh Badal for enacting the various schemes aimed at ensuring the welfare of the Scheduled Caste Communities.



Badal opposes wealth tax, writes to PM, FM, MPs and all CMs


Badal unveils national initiative for consensus against wealth tax


Chandigarh, April 28 (babushahi.com bu....
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Badal unveils national initiative for consensus against wealth tax


Chandigarh, April 28 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today cautioned the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh against what he described as “a serious conflagration of social disorder, anarchy and economic crisis” in the event of Wealth Tax being levied on agriculture lands in the country.


In a letter spelling out “the details of the ruinous decision in this regard, “Badal requested the Prime Minister’s personal, immediate and effective intervention to ensure that agriculture lands is not brought under the ambit of Wealth Tax Act.
Badal has also made similar request to the Union Finance Minister Mr. P Chidambaram and other Union Ministries directly or indirectly related to this issue.
Simultaneously, the Chief Minister today unleashed a broad-based nation-wide initiative to build a “political and social” consensus against imposition of wealth tax on agriculture lands.
Mr. Badal today wrote separate letters to leaders of all national and regional political parties, including their Members of Parliament, urging them to oppose this move in and outside the Parliament.
The Chief Minster has also written separately to Chief Ministers of all states in the country urging his counterparts to oppose the imposition of this tax as it would sound “a death knell of the already beleaguered peasantry and of others dependent directly or indirectly on agriculture. This would also lead to widespread economic devastation of and unrest among agriculture labour and trade, business and industry establishments and persons directly or indirectly linked to agriculture.”
Giving details of the “comprehensive and unprecedented initiative launched by Mr. Badal, Chief Minister’s Advisor on National Affairs Harcharan Bains told newspersons here this afternoon that there has been an overwhelming response cutting across political spectrum to the CM’s efforts. Mr. Bains said that there is a growing realization among the leaders approached so far by Mr. Badal about that wealth tax on agriculture would affect not only farmers but a whole range of economic activity. Mr. Badal has pointed out to political parties and leaders that the impact of this decision would be felt also in small and medium traders dealing with retail of farm produce such as atta, grain, pulses or vegetable or manufacturers of agriculture implements, tools, and machinery. Further, this would also seriously impact producers and retailers of fertilisers, pesticides and other items used as agricultural inputs.
Mr. Bains likened Mr. Badal’s pro-active initiative on the issue to the historic initiative against Emergency in June 1975.” The issue has implications which are as serious, if not more, as those of the imposition of internal Emergency by Late Mrs. Indra Gandhi, said the CM’s Advisor.
The Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, who is also the President of the SAD, are awaiting a response to their request for personal audience with the Prime Minister on this issue. They are likely to meet the PM on April 30 or May 1, though no date has yet been finalised.
In his separate letters to the PM and other leaders and Chief Ministers, Mr. Badal has highlighted the real and potential dangers of Wealth Tax on agriculture. “Such would be the debilitating impact of the wealth tax on agriculture that it would even hit banking activities in a big way as neither farming nor any of its direct or indirect subsidiary economic activities would be able to survive. No farmer would even want to retain agriculture as it would be totally unsustainable under unbearable impact of the wealth tax burden. This in fact would mean “end of agriculture and therefore of food production,” Mr. Badal has told national and regional political leaders with whom he has been interacting telephonically over the past three to four days.
Mr. Badal described the imposition of this tax as a ‘an extremely dangerous step’. Mr. Badal has pointed out that every farmer would have to pay wealth tax in the range of Rs. 30,000 to 70,000 per acre annually whereas the annual agriculture production of the farmer was far much less than this tax.
This would lead to alarming discontent and unrest across the country. He said Centre should reconsider its impending implications of law & order situation as it could provide a breeding ground for Naxalism and put the national security in peril. The Chief Minister was also likely to call on the BJP National President Mr. Rajnath Singh, President of Janta Dal United and Convener of NDA Mr. Sharad Yadav, President of Samajvadi Party Mr. Mulayam Singh Yadav besides Janta Dal Chief Mr. Lalu Prasad Yadav and several leaders of the regional and national political parties to enlist their support of the farmers cause thereby mounting pressure on the ruling UPA government at Centre to shelve this dangerous move without any further delay.


It may be recalled that the core committee of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) under the Chairmanship of Party President Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal in an emergency meeting on April 25 had passed a resolution for convening a special session of Punjab Vidhan Sabha on May 3. The Core Committee also decided that the party and its alliance partner the Bhartiya Janata Party would hold statewide Dharnas at district headquarters from11.00 am to 1.00 pm on May 2. All ministers, senior leaders, MPs, MLAs, Zila and Circle Jathedars of the SAD and other office bearers of both parties will lead thousands of workers and farmers at the dharnas, added Mr. Bains.



100 Heal institutions to provide 24X7 medical service to every patient within 10 kms radius of Punjab

CM for month long intensive care of new born

Punjab planning to introduce pay clinics in govt medical colleges

By Gagandeep Soha....
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CM for month long intensive care of new born

Punjab planning to introduce pay clinics in govt medical colleges

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, April 28 : In a bid to strengthen the health care network across the state to provide 24X7 Comprehensive Medical Services including Emergency, Deliveries and Trauma services for every patient within a radius of 10 kms, the Punjab Government has selected 22 district hospitals, 41 Sub-Divisional Hospitals & 37 Community Health Centers (CHCs) well equipped with the latest medical and diagnostic facilities

Disclosing this here today, a spokesperson of the Chief Minister’s office informed that the Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal approved a plan of Rs. 102 crore to accomplish the remaining works in this regard within next three months. He was presiding over a high level meeting of the Health and Medical Education & Research departments here at his official residence late last evening in which Health & Family Welfare Minister Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Dr. Navjot Kaur Sidhu, Advisor on Health & Medical Education Dr. KK Talwar, renowned doctors and senior officers of both the departments were present.

Mr. Badal also directed the Health Department to accelerate the procedure for filling up all the vacant posts and ensure sent-percent availability of Specialists and MBBS Doctors besides, other Para-medical staff in all the hospitals in a time bound manner. Accepting the request of Principal Secretary Health and Medical Education Mrs. Vini Mahajan to ensure the smooth functioning of health care services in the State, the Chief Minister approved to create about 200 additional posts against the doctors who had proceeded for higher studies.

Emphasizing the dire need to aware the general public about the prevention and control of communicable and non-communicable diseases, including locally endemic diseases, the Chief Minister asked the Health department to launch a massive awareness campaign soon.

While reviewing a comparative analysis and progress of National Rural Health Mission (NRHM), which was launched in 2005 in the Country with the main objective to reduce Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) and Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR), Mr. Badal said that although Punjab had been appreciated at National level for its outstanding efforts in reducing IMR but it was still needed to achieve more. He asked the department to chalk out a plan for establishing separate Hospitals or Wing for the Mother & Child care. Mr. Badal further directed the department to create a system under which every newborn baby must be given intensive health care for crucial first month even after being discharged from the hospital.

In the meeting, Mr. Badal also reviewed the status and progress of establishing five new 50-bedded (each) ‘Model Drug De-addiction Centers’ at Amritsar, Jalandhar, Faridkot, Bathinda and Patiala, which would be made function as tertiary care facility besides service, training, documentation, research and manpower development centers. Likewise to provide accessible and uniform health care services for drug users at all District/ Sub-divisional Hospitals, total 31 centers with 10-bed facility in each were being established. Out of which seven pre-existing Centers had already been operational and 3 newly constructed would also be functional soon besides, 21 Centers were to be constructed. Mr. Badal asked the Health Department to ensure the availability of adequate staff and other essential support at the newly constructed Centers at Khiala Kalan, Hoshiarpur and Batala.

The Chief Minister also approved the setting up of Drug De-addiction services in Central Jails and would launch Prison Drug De-addiction Programme at Ludhiana Jail soon.

Mr. Badal also approved the recommendations of PGIMR experts Prof. Ajit Awasthi and Prof. Debasish Basu for documentation and monitoring of the drug abuse situation across the state besides, conducting a detailed study in a scientific manner with the active involvement of ICMR. He also impressed upon the need to involve NGOs in this programme by allotting them a specific area or villages around a particular Drug De-addiction center.

Mr. Badal also asked the department to chalk out the modalities for introducing Pay Clinic system in the Medical Colleges for the working Doctors to shun the practice of their working in the private health Institution after the college hours.

During the meeting the Chief Minister was apprised by the MD Punjab Health System Corporation Mr. Husan Lal that under the revised Core Plan of Rs. 268 crore the up gradation works in one District Hospital, six Sub Divisional Hospitals, six CHCs and 36 PHCs had been completed, whereas rest of the work was in process. It was also informed that out of 300 MBBS doctors selected by PPSC, 290 doctors had joined the department so far.

Prominent amongst those who were present in the meeting included Health & Family Welfare Minister Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Health Dr. Navjot Kaur Sidhu, Advisor on Health & Medical Education Dr. KK Talwar, Dr. Ajit Awasthi from PGIMER, Principal Secretary Health and Medical Education Mrs. Vini Mahajan, Special Principal Secretary to the CM Mr. Gurkirat Kirpal Singh, MD Punjab Health System Corporation Mr. Hussan Lal, NRHM Director Mr. Raj Kamal Chaudhary, DRME Dr. Tejveer Singh, Director Health Dr. Ashok Nayyar, VC Baba Farid Medical University Dr. SS Gill and Principals of Government Medical Colleges of Patiala and Amritsar besides, other Medico Professionals, Experts and officers of the state government.

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Badal constitutes panel to select architect and finalization site plan of Jung-E-Azadi memorial

CM Punjab fixes two years deadline for completion of Jung-E-Azadi memorial

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, April 28 : T....
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CM Punjab fixes two years deadline for completion of Jung-E-Azadi memorial

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, April 28 : The Punjab Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal today gave his nod to constitute a 10-member high level committee under the Chairmanship of Member Secretary of the of the Jang-e-Azadi Memorial Foundation Dr. Barjinder Singh Hamdard to finalize the modalities for hiring the services of reputed architect for the construction of world class monument to showcase the unparalleled contribution of Punjabis in the National Freedom Struggle.



A decision to this effect was taken by Mr. Badal in a meeting of the Foundation here at Chief Minister’s residence this morning.

Apart from Mr. Barjinder Singh, the others members of this committee would include; Health & Family Welfare Minister Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Former Minister and senior BJP Minister Mr. Balram ji Dass Tandon, Member Rajya Sabha Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder, Former Minister Mr. Sewa Singh Sekhwan, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Som Parkash, Advisor to the Chief Minister Mr. Mahesh Inder Singh Grewal, Chief Secretary Mr. Rakesh Singh, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu and Principal Secretary Cultural Affairs Mr. SS Channi. The Committee has been mandated by the Chief Minister to shortlist the best architect amongst the panel of renowned architects with a proven track of expertise, rich experience and architectural skills for such state-of-the-art monument. Mr. Badal asked the committee to consult the leading architects of the country who could suggest the names of their ilk in this field for this prestigious project. Likewise, the Chief Minister also appreciated the proposal put forth by Dr. Barjinder Singh regarding the preparation of feature -cum-documentary film on the different aspects of Indian Freedom Struggle besides the concept of Laser show to highlight the various watershed movements during the tryst for independence.

On the suggestion of Dr. Hamdard, the Chief Minister agreed to seek expertise of prominent film and TV personalities like Mr. Shyam Benegal, Mr. Gobind Nehlani and Mr. Parkash Jha for the proposed feature-cum-documentary film of 90 minutes duration on the Indian Independence Movement specially highlighting the role of Punjabis in English, Hindi and Punjabi. Mr. Badal also asked the sub-committee constituted under the Chairmanship of Dr. Hamdard with Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister, Principal Secretary Cultural Affairs, Noted Punjabi Theatre personality and playwright Mr. Kewal Dhaliwal, Eminent Film maker Mr. Amrik Singh Gill, Former MP Tarlochan Singh, VC Punjabi University, Patiala Prof. Jaspal Singh and Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Som Parkash as members besides prominent TV personality Mr. Lakhwinder Singh Johal as special invitee of the committee to negotiate with the reputed companies engaged in presenting the historic movements and incidents before the tourists through laser shows based on the light and sound technology. Mr. Badal highly appreciated such shows being depicted at Akshardham Temples at Ahmedabad and Delhi besides Takht Sachkhand Sri Hazur Sahib, Nanded.

The Chief Minister asked all the committees to meet frequently so that this gigantic task of utmost National importance to bring awakening amongst our youth especially the coming generations about our rich and glorious legacy to rekindle a spirit of patriotism in them by highlighting the golden moments of Indian Freedom Struggle. The Chief Minister also asked the members of the Foundation to complete all the formalities in a time bound manner so that this prestigious project could be completed within next two years and assured the Foundation that their would be no paucity of funds as the government was committed for its timely completion. Mr. Badal also gave approval to the Executive Committee for hiring the services of the EoI Consultant for finalizing the modalities for technical and financial bids besides authorizing to hire the services of any person or agency as deemed necessary for the project. Mr. Badal also directed the Chief Secretary to take up the matter with National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) for the construction of Grid Separator near the site of the memorial, adding he said after the finalization of site plan, the civil works of the memorial should be entrusted to the renowned construction company of the country.

Prominent who attended the meeting included Health & Family Welfare Minister Mr. Madan Mohan Mittal, Former Minister and senior BJP Minister Mr. Balram ji Dass Tandon, Member Rajya Sabha Mr. Balwinder Singh Bhunder, Former Minister Mr. Sewa Singh Sekhwan, Chief Parliamentary Secretary Mr. Som Parkash, Advisor to the Chief Minister Mr. Mahesh Inder Singh Grewal, Managing Editor Ajit Group of Publications Dr. Barjinder Singh Hamdard, Chief Secretary Mr. Rakesh Singh, Principal Secretary to Chief Minister Mr. SK Sandhu, Principal Secretary Cultural Affairs Mr. SS Channi, Special Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Mr. Gaggandip Singh Brar and CEO of Foundation Mr. Vinay Bublani.



Punjab to honour 635 top VAT payers : Sukhbir

Punjab first state to have online single click investment portal

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, April 28 : The Punjab Deputy Chi....
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Punjab first state to have online single click investment portal

By Gagandeep Sohal

Chandigarh, April 28 : The Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal has announced the plan to honour 635 VAT payers of the state, who contributed more than 94% in VAT collections of the state.

Speaking after honouring 'Achievers of North India' in a function held here today, Mr. Badal said that recognition was motivating factor, that propels individuals to excel in the life. Lauding organizers for recognizing the services of various individuals in different fields, Mr. Badal said that Punjab Government would also hold a function to honour those 635 VAT Payers, who were virtually sustaining the economy of Punjab. He said that similar functions would also be organized at district levels to honour complaint tax payers. He said that he was happy to know that the VAT Collection in the state has more than doubled in last five years due to transparency in collection initiated by him and it is likely to touch Rs. 16,000 crore this year.





Promising total transformation of the state in next three years, the Deputy Chief Minister said that Punjab Government has already finalized a plan to give a big push to infra sector in a big way. He said that besides linking all cities with 4/6 lane roads at the cost of Rs. 12000 crore, the dream of making Punjab power surplus would be realized by December this year. He said that POWERCOM was sorting out the problem of coal allocation as Coal India had already committed 100% coal linkage to upcoming plants.





Inviting investors to set up their ventures in the State, Mr. Badal said that within 15-20 days the New Industrial Investment Policy would launch online investment portal, in which investors sitting in any corner of the world, can fulfill all formalities online. He said that once he gives self declaration regarding fulfillment of all formalities, the sanction of all departments had been automated in the portal. He said that the new investment policy would be the most comprehensive policy that would not remain confined to industry alone but would cover every type of the investment in the state.





Earlier, speaking on the occasion Mr. Bikram Singh Majithia, Revenue and Public Relations Minister, Punjab said that Governance Reforms initiated by the State Government were being replicated by other state and Union Government also. He said that digitilisation of land records in the state would be completed within next 90 days and NRIs would be able to access the record of their lands sitting anywhere in the world.



Meanwhile, Mr. Badal and Mr. Majithia honoured achievers of the North.



Hisar: Journalist booked for molesting & stalking a 22-year-old woman


Hisar, April 28 (babushahi.com bureau):The Hisar police said a journalist, who works with a Hindi channel, was arrested on Friday night over t....
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Hisar, April 28 (babushahi.com bureau):The Hisar police said a journalist, who works with a Hindi channel, was arrested on Friday night over the allegations of stalking and molesting a 22 year women. He was produced in a court on Saturday and was released on bail.
The victim, who had earlier alleged rape by one Vishal Phogat, in her complaint told the police that the accused journalist was stalking her and often used to invite her to his home, claiming that he would help her in getting justice. The victim alleged that when she refused to join him, the accused threatened to defame her.

The police have booked the accused under sections 509 (word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman), 506 (criminal intimidation), 354-D (stalking) and 294 (any obscene act in public place in annoyance to others) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).



Prime Minister Manmohan Singh rejects demands for resignation

New Delhi, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau):Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday rejected demands for his resignation as well as that of Law Minis....
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New Delhi, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau):Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday rejected demands for his resignation as well as that of Law Minister Ashwani Kumar on the issue of alleged interference in the preparation of the CBI status report in the coal scam.




He also declined to respond to allegations that he used the Law Minister as a shield to "safeguard" himself. Speaking to reporters at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, he dismissed the opposition demand for his resignation on the coal blocks allocation scam, saying this was not the first time they were making such a demand. "This is not the first time in the last nine years, how many times... (they have demanded the resignation). But I would like to appeal to the opposition that they should let Parliament function," he said, when asked about the opposition demand for his resignation.




He also appealed the opposition to let Parliament function and discuss all the issues there. "By not allowing Parliament to function, we are making mockery of our system of democracy. The whole world is laughing at us. Whatever the issues, these can be debated, discussed and decisions arrived at through proper dialogue at Parliament," he said.
When asked whether he would ask for Kumar's resignation, the Prime Minister said, "There is no question of the Law Minister resigning. The matter is now in the court and it is sub-judice. It is not proper for me to do anything. But there is no question of the Law Minister resigning."




The demand for Kumar's resignation mounted after the CBI told the Supreme Court on Friday that the status report on the coal block allocations was shared with the political executive and Joint Secretary-level officers in the PMO and Coal Ministry.
On BJP's charge that he was using the Law Minister as a shield to "safeguard" himself in the coal-gate probe, Singh said, "I would not like to comment on this subject. It is a matter which is now before the court."







(JL/jR)



Family of Sarabjit gets Pakistan visa

New Delhi, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Four members of Sarabjit Singh's family have been granted visa by the Pakistan High Commission to meet the....
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New Delhi, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Four members of Sarabjit Singh's family have been granted visa by the Pakistan High Commission to meet the Indian prisoner who is in "deep coma" and put on ventilator support after being assaulted by jail inmates in Lahore.



Sarabjit's sister Dalbir Kaur today said that the High Commission in Delhi has issued visa to the family and she along with his daughters Poonam, Swapandeep Kaur and the prisoner's wife Sukhpreet Kaur would be travelling to Lahore.




However, she did not say when they will leave for Pakistan. Besides visa to four family members, she said government officials have informed her that Pakistan government has allowed one family member to stay in the Lahore hospital where Sarabjit, whose condition continues to be critical, is under treatment. Last night, Dalbir Kaur had made a strong appeal to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi and Minister of State for External Affairs Preneet Kaur to do the needful to arrange the visa for Pakistan so that the family could visit Sarabjit, who is on death row in Kot Lakhpat jail.




Sarabjit was convicted for alleged involvement in a string of bomb attacks in Punjab province in Pakistan, that killed 14 people in 1990. His mercy petitions were rejected by the courts and former President Pervez Musharraf. His family says he is a victim of mistaken identity and had inadvertently strayed across the border




Meanwhile, hundreds of residents of border village Bikhiwind, from where Sarabjit hails, assembled outside the house of the prisoner to express solidarity and sympathy with the family. Sarabjit, 49, is in an Intensive Care Unit of the state-run Jinnah Hospital in Lahore where he was admitted yesterday after being brutally beaten by at least six other prisoners within his barrack at the Kot Lakhpat Jail.




With Sarabjit Singh battling for life in a Lahore hospital, India today offered medical assistance to Pakistan in treating the prisoner and said it will use this incident as an additional ground to push hard to get him back to his homeland Khurshid said India will continue to push very hard to bring Singh back using this incident as an additional ground. He said the decision to get Singh back to India should not be and emotional or political one. "It should be a medical decision," he said. "We would be willing to cooperate in any way should Pakistan government need any assistance," he said.





(JL/jR)



Blue Star Memorial in Golden Temple Complex inaugurated

Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Giving an end to the controversy, the much publicized Blue Star Memorial in Sri Darbar Sahib Complex, Amr....
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Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Giving an end to the controversy, the much publicized Blue Star Memorial in Sri Darbar Sahib Complex, Amritsar was inaugurated today with religious ceremonies. Damdami Taksal Head Baba Harnam Singh handed over keys of the modern structure-Gurudwara to SGPC President Avtar Singh Makkar where Sri Guru Granth Sahib has been installed.




It may be recalled that this memorial has been setup by the SGPC on the demand of various Sikh organizations in memory of Sikh martyrs who died during military action in Saka 1984 in Darbar Sahib. Though this project attracted criticism from various quarters especially Congress party but the SGPC had finally decided to go ahead with the construction of the building.




The leaders of various social and religious organizations and a large number of people attended today’s ceremony.






(JL/jR)



24 IAS in the Country to retire on April 30, 2013(PDF file attached)

New Delhi, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): As many as 24 IAS officers from different State Cadres in the country will retire from Govt. service on Ap....
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 New Delhi, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): As many as 24 IAS officers from different State Cadres in the country will retire from Govt. service on April 30, 2013 after attaining the age of superannuation.



Punjab IAS 1997 batch S K Sharma is in the list of retirees.


(JL/jR)



UPA weakest government since independence : Sukhbir

Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister Punjab today described Congress led UPA government as the ....
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Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Mr. Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister Punjab today described Congress led UPA government as the weakest government since independence that has left no stone unturned to compromise nation’s security to even small island countries like Maldives.




Speaking to media persons on the sidelines of sports awards function here today, Mr. Badal who is also President of Shiromani Akali Dal said that Congress led UPA government was the most indecisive government even on the sensitive issues like Chinese intrusion and beating up of Indian national Sarabjit in Lahore Jail. He said that he was surprised that this government was sleeping over reports of intrusion till Chinese entered and camped 19Kms inside the Indian Territory. ‘The fact is no neighbor including a tiny Island like Maldives was scared of India these days as our indecisiveness was our hallmark’.




Charging Congress led UPA government to perform its legitimate duty to pursue the case of Sarabjit effectively and forcefully with Pakistan government, Mr. Badal said that when whole country and all state governments were supporting them on this issue he could not understand the lethargy of Union government on this critical issue.





Blaming Congress led UPA government for performing its duty to safeguard the territorial sovereignty of the country, Mr. Badal said that a country that cannot protect its territory, must go at the earliest. He said that when all parties are pressurizing Congress led UPA government to take strong and effective action against mechanization of China, why our Prime Minister was describing it just localized issue.




Expressing concern over India’s souring ties with all neighbors, he said that India must display its might to regain its stature otherwise even countries like Maldives were not taking us seriously. Describing the incident of Sarabjit as most unfortunate, Mr. Badal said that Government of India must send a high level team to probe the issue and get the truth.






(JL/jR)



Every sixth occupied census house in slums is non residential in Punjab

Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): The 2011 Census collected data on people living in slums that have become common place in a rapidly urban....
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Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): The 2011 Census collected data on people living in slums that have become common place in a rapidly urbanizing India. It found that around 1.37 crore households or 17.4% of urban Indian households lived in slums in 2011. Moreover, 38% of all slum households in the country are found in million plus cities.


Provisional population figures that within 3 weeks of the conclusion of Census of India 2011, the provisional population figures on numeric count only arrived at by adding the population as reported by each enumerator for the Enumeration Block assigned to her/him were released for the following parameters:


Total population figures and male/female breakup till district level.


0-6 years population figures- total, male/female breakup till district level.


Literacy rate- total, male/female till district level.


Sex ratio and child sex ratio in age group 0-6 Years


Rural - urban Tables- released in August, 2011.
Housing Census- Subsequent to the abovementioned provisional figures, further releases are based on processing of cent percent data. More than one billion records have been scanned and Image enabled Intelligent character recognition (ICR) and Computer Assisted Coding (CAC) has been applied. The following data has been released--


Tables on Houses, Household amenities and Assets at national, state, district, tehsil level.


Tables as above for SC/ST households


Tables pertaining to male/female-headed households.
Data on slum households are being released from the above said compilation.
Releasing the data on slum households for Punjab, Smt Seema Jain, IAS, Joint Secretary, MHA, Government of India and Director Census, Punjab said that it is for the first time that data on housing stock, amenities and assets available based on Houselisting Operations are being released for slum areas. In 2001 census, slum-data was released only for population enumeration phase. She expressed the hope that the demographic characteristics of population living in slums would be of immense interest and utility for planners, policy-makers, administrators, academicians, researchers and many other stake holders.


In India slums have been defined under Section 3 of the Slum Act (Improvement and Clearance) Act, 1956 .The census describes slums as “residential areas where dwellings are unfit for human habitation by reasons of dilapidation, overcrowding, faulty arrangements and design of such buildings, narrowness or faulty arrangement of street, lack of ventilation, light, or sanitation facilities or any combination of these factors which are detrimental to the safety and health”.


Slums have been categorized and defined as ‘notified slums’, ‘recognized slums’ and ‘Identified slums’. Notified slums include all areas in a town or city notified as slum by the State/ UT Administration or Local Government under any Act including a ‘Slum Act’. Recognized slums are those which have been recognized as slum by State/ UT Administration or Local Government, Housing and Slum Boards, but may have not been formally notified as slum under any Act. Identified slum is a compact area of at least 300 population or about 60-70 households of poorly built congested tenements in unhygienic environment usually with inadequate infrastructure and lacking in proper sanitary and drinking water facilities.


Punjab Data- Punjab has 14.2% of urban households living in slums. Out of 143 statutory towns in Punjab, 71 have reported slums. These 71 towns are distributed over 18 districts in the state. SBS Nagar and Barnala districts have not reported any slum.


Classification as per use of census-houses- Slums are not purely residential. 81.5% of the occupied census houses are residential or residential-cum-other use whereas the remaining 17.7% are under non-residential use and 0.8% census houses are occupied but locked. The census data shows that they are vibrant economic clusters and entrepreneurial hubs where the poor are climbing up the ladder of opportunity and income. The census data shows that in Punjab, 17.7% of the slum census houses are being used for non-residential purposes such as Shop/office, Hotel/lodge, Hospital/dispensary, Factory/workshop, Place of Worship, other non-residential purposes, etc. and this percentage is higher than all India figure of 15.1%. Within the category of non-residential use, 37,653 are being used as shop/office, 6,945 as factory/workshop/workshed etc, 1543 as place of worship, 907 as school/college, 519 as hospital/dispensary etc, 334 as hotel/lodge and 16,260 are being used for other non-residential purposes.


Ownership status of houses- Data shows that the proportion of households who live in slums in towns/cities and who own their homes is higher than corresponding figure for non- slums. In Punjab, 81.0% of the slum households own the house in which they are residing. This percentage is higher than that of the total urban households at 78.3%. This could well be a function of the ease of home ownership in slums, both in terms of cost and the process involved.


Assets and amenities


Electricity as source of lighting is available to 96.6% of the slum households which is marginally less than that of the total urban households at 98.3%. Ludhiana, Amritsar and Jalandhar are the three big cities of Punjab. The availability of electricity in these corporation towns is as good as for total urban areas in the state. In Ludhiana 97.3% and in Amritsar Corp. 97.4% of the slum households have electricity as the source of light while the percentage is even higher in Jalandhar Corp at 99.0%.
Tap water is available to 69.8% of the slum households compared with 76.4% in urban households in Punjab. Position is much better in Jalandhar and Ludhiana Corp where the percentage of households having tap water is 97.2% and 94.0% respectively. In Amritsar corporation, it is 68.9%.


Toilet within premises is available to 88.7% of the households in slums. In other words, 11.3% of the slum households do not have toilet compared with 6.6% for total urban areas. In Jalandhar Corp. 97% of the slum households have toilet within premises only 3% are devoid of this facility within premises. Similarly, 95% of slum households in Ludhiana Corp and 92% in Amritsar Corp have availability of toilet.
LPG is the main fuel used for cooking in 67.8% of the slum households compared to 79.3% for total urban households. In Ludhiana (76.5%) and in Jalandhar (74.8%) corporations, more than three - fourths of the slum households are using LPG for cooking. The corresponding percentage for Amritsar Corp is 67.4%.


Television


At least 4 out of every 5 slum households (82.6%) are possessing Television and this percentage is nearly at par with the urban households at 87.7%. Among the three big cities, the percentage is almost the same in Jalandhar at 87.3% and Amritsar at 86.6% while in Ludhiana 81.8% of slum households have television.


Computer/laptop


Every – tenth household in urban areas (10.5%) has computer/ lap top with internet and every ninth urban household has computer/laptop without internet. Among the slum households, 4.3% have computer/laptop with internet and 7.0% have computer/laptop without internet. In Ludhiana Corp 6.0% slum households have computer/laptop with internet and 8.0% without internet followed by Jalandhar corporation wherein 5.7% slum households are having computer/laptop with internet and 6.6% without internet. In Amritsar corporation, 3.6% of slum households have computer/laptop with internet and 5.9% without internet.


Telephone/Mobile


Three out of every four slum households (75.6%) have telephone compared with 86.1% in case of total urban households. The percentage reflects total number of households having either telephone only, only mobile or both. The percentage is even higher in Jalandhar and Ludhiana Corp at 82.4% and 81.7% respectively. In Amritsar Corporation 71.7% of slum households have telephone.


Scooter/Motorcycle/Moped


Every third slum household is in possession of two wheelers. In percentage terms, 35.0% slum households have two wheeler compared with 51.7% in urban households. In Ludhiana Corporation 42.1% and in Jalandhar Corporation 40.7% slum households have a two wheeler while in Amritsar Corporation one-third (33.6%) slum households possess two wheelers.


Car/Jeep/Van


In Punjab, 7.3% of the slum households are in possession of a four wheeler as against 18.1% for urban households. One in every ten slum households in Ludhiana Corp (9.6%) is having a four wheeler and the corresponding percentage for Jalandhar and Amritsar Corp is 7.9% and 5.3% respectively.


None of the specified assets


Among the urban households in Punjab, 3.2% have none of the specified assets. It is 5.8% for slum households. In Ludhiana 5.3% and in Amritsar 4.9% of the slum households are not having any of the specified assets while the percentage in Jalandhar Corp is 3.2%.



Funds starved Punjab govt makes double payment to local commissioner

Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Left hand of Punjab Government does not know what the right hand is doing, this fact has been proved as A....
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Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Left hand of Punjab Government does not know what the right hand is doing, this fact has been proved as AG Punjab (Bills Branch) sends a demand draft of Rs. Fifty thousand to Advocate H.C. Arora, who was appointed a Local Commissioner by the High Court in connection with Sukha Choe, in a Public Interest Litigation.


Fund starved Punjab Government is also very poor in accountancy. Advocate H.C. Arora, was appointed as Local Commissioner by the High Court on March 5, 2012, for submitting a report on the extent of area under Sukhna Choe . His remuneration was fixed as Rs. fifty thousand by the HC. As the payment to him was not being released by Punjab Government, Arora brought it to the notice of Division Bench of ACJ Jasbir Singh, through the Registrar General, in July/August, 2012, the Advocate General’s office immediately produced a cheque for Rs.50 thousand and delivered it to Advocate Arora.


A few days ago, an oral request was made by some clerk working in AG, Punjab office to him for deputing some body for receiving the cheque of honorarium payable to him. Despite being told that he has already received the payment, Arora has received by post a demand draft for Rs.50 thousand. The demand draft is being returned by Arora to the office of Advocate General, Punjab.



12 Wing air force station Chandigarh bags best military transport station

Ch....
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Chandigarh 27 April (babushahi.com bureau): Since its inception on 01 Nov 1961, 12 Wing, Air Force, Chandigarh the premier transport base of Indian Air Force(IAF) has been undertaking the huge task of Air Maintenance of our Armed Forces and civilian populace in the entire J&K region including Leh, Thoise, Ladakh & Glacier region.


In the recently concluded Commanders Conference at HQ Western Air Command (WAC),Indian Air Force(IAF), 12 Wing AF Station achieved many laurels in different fields for excellent performance. These feats have been achieved under the leadership of Air Commodore SC Chafekar and his team of officers and personnel.

To mention the awards, the station has been awarded the trophy for the Best Operational Transport Base in entire WAC area. No. 44 Squadron with the mighty IL-76 aircraft achieved the trophy for Best Transport Squadron. Not only in the operational area, the spirit of the station in all round activity got showcased when the station bagged trophy as the best station in sports.

The dental centre at the station was awarded the trophy for best dental centre and the Air Force School was awarded as overall second in the WAC,AF.
This shows the remarkable all round development and achievements of the station and will boost the morale of the personnel further.



Dal Khalsa hails completion of martyrs memorial

Amritsar, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Expressing satisfaction over the completion of martyrs memorial within the period of 10 months, the Dal Kh....
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Amritsar, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Expressing satisfaction over the completion of martyrs memorial within the period of 10 months, the Dal Khalsa thanked Damdami Taksal and the SGPC for fulfilling the long standing desire of the Sikh Panth.

Party head H S Dhami and spokesperson Kanwar Pal Singh said the memorial would be a befitting reply to all those who have been lecturing the Sikhs to forget the events of 1984. They said the memorial would also be answer to all those who have been ‘name calling the martyrs’. They said the memorial would also convey the message of the Sikh Panth to one and all that “Sikhs have deep respect for the martyrs of the faith”. They said the memorial would be a step towards recognizing the martyrdom of those who fought till their last breath against the desecration of Darbar Sahib and Akal Takht.



Haryana govt claims improvement in sex-ratio

Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau) -The sex ratio has vastly improved in Haryana due to the strict implementation of the releavant laws and r....
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Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau) -The sex ratio has vastly improved in Haryana due to the strict implementation of the releavant laws and rigorous follow-up measurs taken by the state government.

While 16 districts have recorded growth in the sex ratio, Jind tops the state with the highest ratio of 962. Yamunanagar has registerd the ratio of 928 and Rohtak has recorded the maximum increase from 739 to 902, notching up a gain of 163 points.


This was disclosed by Navraj Sandhu, Principal Secretary,
Haryana, Health Department, while inaugurating a
state-level workshop on Stronger Implementation of the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PC-PNDT) Act, organized at Red Bishop in Panchkula, today.
She said that 20 court cases were filed in 2012-13 and 30 convictions had been done between 2001 and March, 2013. Those convicted include 24 doctors.
Sandhu said the PC-PNDT Act is a legislation to curb the
abhorrent practice of sex determination and sex selection. District
appropriate authorities, district nodal officers, state programme
officers and functionaries of the Haryana State Legal Services
Authority were working hard to implement the Act which has resulted in the sex ratio at birth increasing from 839 to 877.
Ultrasound is used to detect problem during the pregnancy, but people in present scenario are misusing this technology for their selfinterest which majorly contributes to the imbalances in the sex ratio.
Sandhu said that the Haryana Government had taken
several measures for empowering women. These include 10 paisa concession per unit for domestic electricity; two per cent rebate onstamp duty on immovable property, 33 per cent reservation for women in teaching and Ladli Scheme (financial assistance of Rs 5,000 per year @ Rs 2,500 per girl child on birth of second girl child) and three awards of Rs 5 lakh, 3 lakh and 2 lakh to three districts showing improvement in the sex ratio by the Women and Child Department.


Dr N.K. Arora, Director General Health Services, Haryana,
said, “Supervisory field visits are being intensified and on toll
free no 102 for registration of complaints the identity is kept
secret. Condemnation of non-working ultrasound machines is done on a
routine basis. Best village award of Rs 1 lakh is given for the
highest sex ratio in the district to motivate the panchayats”.
There are challenges in implementation of the PC & PNDT Act
which included mobile-sized ultra sound machines, he added.


Dr Vishesh from the World Health Organization, Dr Neelam
from Luckow, Ms Priyanka Ghosh, Ms Shobhana Boyle from United Naiton for Population Fund(UNFPA), Advocate Varsha Deshpande from Maharashtra and Dr V.K Goyal, Ex-Nodal officer Punjab gave their presentations in the workshop.
Dr Renu Pahal Malik, Deputy Director, PNDT (Pre-Natal
Diagnostic Techniques) concluded the meeting with a vote of thanks, and appealed to all the appropriate authorities to work sincerely andhonestly for this noble cause.



Canadian Universities hold Admissions Workshop in Chandigarh

Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): A delegation from the top Canadian colleges and universities visited Chandigarh for the 13th Canadian Uni....
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Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): A delegation from the top Canadian colleges and universities visited Chandigarh for the 13th Canadian Universities & Colleges Admissions Workshop organized by Canam Consultants Limited at Hotel Taj, here today.
Anuraj Sandhu, Director, Canam Consultants Limited and member of ICCRC talked about Canada being a friendly and safe destination as the United Nations has ranked the country as the best place in the world to live for many successive years. They said that Canada offered World class Universities with economical tuition fees and industry oriented specialized courses.


The participating institutes included educational institutes from Canada Brock University, Carleton University, Thompson Rivers University, Durham College, Mohawk College, Fanshawe College, Sheridan College, Langara College, George Brown College, Fleming College, Cambrian College, Centennial College, Confederation College, North Island College, Royal Roads University, College of New Caledonia, Fraser International College, International College of Manitoba, University of Manitoba.
Talking about the importance of this Canadian admission workshop, Anuraj Sandhu said that this was the perfect launch pad for students who have completed their 12th grade and those pursuing their bachelor’s degree and are looking for options in Diploma and Bachelors/Masters degree/other Graduate program admissions in Canada.



Khaira accuses Badal of politicizing issue of wealth tax

Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Former Punjab Congress MLA Sukhpal Khaira has accused Punjab chief minister Parkash Singh Badal of playi....
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Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Former Punjab Congress MLA Sukhpal Khaira has accused Punjab chief minister Parkash Singh Badal of playing to gallery and vehemently politicizing the issue of Wealth Tax, to divert attention from the burning issues facing Punjab.
In a statement issued here today Khaia said that instead of taking timely action on the issue of Wealth Tax, when first assessment notices of the Income Tax department were served to the two Akali Nagra brothers in 1999-2000, Sh. Badal is now raising a hue and cry and politicizing the issue to garner votes, least of all its resolution. It is a matter of record that while NDA headed by Sh. Vajpayee ruled at the Centre from 1999-2004, Sh. Badal was very much the CM of Punjab from 1997-2002, then why Badal failed to take up the issue of Wealth Tax with the PM?


Congress refreshes the fading memory of Badal, that when I-T assessment notices were sent to the Nagra brothers during the NDA regime at the Centre and his govt. in Punjab, why an emergency session of the Vidhan Sabha was not convened by him to oppose this anti-farmer move? Had Badal and Vajpayee dealt with the issue at that very time, the Nagra brothers would not have lost from the High Court as well as the Supreme Court, nor would have the recovery proceedings begun against them, he added.
Khaira said that it is needless to mention, Partap Singh Bajwa President PPCC has already met the FM Chidambaram alongwith a delegation of MP’s, who has assured dropping of the controversial clause from the amendment proposed in the Finance Bill 2013.


It is saddening to note that Badal never cared to call a special session of the to debate the burning issues facing Punjab such as collapse of law and order with spates of killings of gazetted police officers in uniform, rapes of women in Punjab, Akali goons and ‘Jathedars’ ruling the roost by taking over police stations and the civil administration of the state. Neither did the CM bother to call a special session for the critical financial situation with a debt of over Rs. 80,000 crore on Punjab or for over 5000 road accident deaths annually in the state.


He further said that the CM should not make a ‘mountain out of a mole’, stop arousing passions and whipping up sentiments on this sensitive issue but instead approach the govt. through appropriate official channels to resolve the matter.



Badal: communal harmony & peace is top priority



Reiterates commitment of state government to promote brotherhood and peace




Bathinda, April 27 (ba....
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Reiterates commitment of state government to promote brotherhood and peace




Bathinda, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau) Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today said that promoting the ethos of communal harmony, peace and amity in the state along with ensuring the all round development of the state was the top priority of the SAD-BJP alliance government.


Addressing a mammoth gathering after releasing the book of Superintendent of Police (Crime) Khushi Mohammeed Khan here today at the local Id-Gah, the Chief Minister categorically said that their government have always given due respect to every religion by ensuring the well being of people. He said that due to the unflinching commitment of the state government for maintaining communal harmony and peace in the state, the people of Punjab have time and again supported them by reposing their faith in the policies of the alliance government. Mr Badal said that it was a matter of great pride for all of Punjabis that Punjab was the only state in the country which has witnessed complete peace in last many years.


Reiterating the commitment of the state government towards promoting brotherhood and amity in the state, the Chief Minister said that the biggest achievement of their government was that it had ensured communal harmony and peace in the state adding that despite being a border state Punjab has emerged as a epitome of peace and brotherhood despite of the fact that many other states of the country have fallen prey to the communal violence. He said that the state government was fully committed for welfare of every religion in the state adding that efforts were afoot by the state government to ensure the progress and development of the Muslim brethren.


Recalling the age old ties between the Muslim and Sikh Communities, Mr Badal said that both the communities shared a rich bond amongst themselves and the name of Bhai Mardana was taken with great reverence along with the first Guru of Sikhs, Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji in the annals of Sikh History. He said that due to these strong ties only the Sikh Gurus had urged a Muslim Saint Sain Mian Mir to lay down the foundation stone of Sri Harmandir Sahib, the most revered place of Sikhs.

Badal said that Sikh Gurus have taught them to respect every religion and the fact that Bani of many Saints, Seers and Prophets from different religions have been incorporated in Sri Guru Granth Sahib was a testimony to it.
On the occasion the Chief Minister also announced a grant of Rs 10 lakh for the Muslim Human Welfare Society Bathinda. Badal also assured the society to complete the Community Centre besides fulfilling their other demands.



Leading motorsport clubs of North India compete at Mahindra Uncaged

Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): SOME of the leading and emerging motorsport clubs of North India today took part in Mahindra Uncaged, the....
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Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): SOME of the leading and emerging motorsport clubs of North India today took part in Mahindra Uncaged, the extreme offroad challenge held at Dera Bassi.


A total of 16 teams with 64 competitors from Rajasthan, Delhi, Gurgaon, Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh competed in the event. Each team comprised two vehicles, with two rallyists in each vehicle. The competitors took on highly demanding offroad challenges like ditches, slushes, steep hill climbs, driving through a shallow pond and finally the adventure trail, spread out over 20 acres.
The teams that competed in the event were Terrain Tigers from Delhi, Gerrari Offroaders from Chandigarh, Doaba Mudnuts from Hoshiarpur, Earth Callers from Chandigarh, Supernatural Adventure Club of Mohali, and various other independent competitors from diverse parts of north India.


The extreme offroad challenges were conceptualized and designed by experienced rallyists Sudev Barar, Gulpreet Aulakh and Nikhil Jaspal. The event was organized by Team Chandigarh Adventure Sports (TCAS) in collaboration with Incarnation Sports.


Barar said the challenges were designed to test the drivers’ skills and also impart learning for cross-country motorsport events. The highest participation at the event was of Terrain Tigers from Delhi. Sanjiv Singh, the co-founder of Terrain Tigers who was here for the event, said water and slush challenge was a major draw at the Dera Bassi track.
“Our boys recently wrested the Team Trophy at the SJOBA Sub-Himalayan Rally from Team Thunderbolt. We are now preparing to excel at the Mughal Rally to be held in June in Kashmir. We also want to take on the reigning champions at the Raid De Himalaya and the Desert Storm. The Dera Bassi action is fantastic adventure and also a learning experience for us,” said Singh.
The event was open only to 4X4 vehicles. It began at 10 am after the scrutiny of vehicles, and concluded in the evening.



Bajwa to meet Sonia Gandhi on Sarabjit Singh's issue

Ludhiana, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau) PPCC President Partap Singh Bajwa today expressed serious concern over attack on Sarbjit Singh Indian prison....
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Ludhiana, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau) PPCC President Partap Singh Bajwa today expressed serious concern over attack on Sarbjit Singh Indian prisoner in Pakistan jail and assured his family full support by the center government.


In a statement Bajwa said that he would on Monday along with other party MPs meet the ACID president Sonia Gandhi to take up the case of Sarabjit Singh’s security and treatment with the concerned quarters. He said that safety of Sarabjit Singh was responsibility of Pakistan government since his appeal for mercy to the President of Pakistan is still pending.

Bajwa said that Indian government is seized of the matter. He requested the Prime Minister to take up with Pakistan Government, the release of Sarabjit Singh on humanitarian ground. He prayed for fast recovery of Sarabjit Singh.



67 Players to be conferred Maharaja Ranjit Singh award (PDF file attached)

Punjab to introduce sports as elective subject in boards examination


Each discipline to get prize money of rs.25 lac and each playe....
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 Punjab to introduce sports as elective subject in boards examination


Each discipline to get prize money of rs.25 lac and each player a scholarship of rs.10,000


Strength in sports wings raised to 4000 from 300



Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab government today announced Maharaja Ranjit Singh awards, the highest sports award of the state to 67 outstanding players of different disciplines.


Addressing the media persons here today, Sukhbir Singh Badal, Deputy Chief Minister Punjab who is also Sports Minister said that Punjab Chief Minister. Parkash Singh Badal would confer these awards that included a prize money of Rs.2 lac, a trophy of Maharaja Ranjit Singh astride horse back in warrior dress, a Blazer with pocket, a Tie and a Scroll of Honour. He said that the prize money has been doubled from Rs.1 lac to Rs.2 lac. Badal said that 10 outstanding players of year 2005, 9 of 2006, 14 of 2007, 14 of 2008, 9 of 2009 and 11 players of 2010 would be conferred these awards in the presence of Mr. Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, Padma Shree Awardees, Arjuna Awardees, previous Maharaja Ranjit Singh Awardees, Olympians and International Players . The Award is given to 15 outstanding players every year on the basis of their performance in the preceding five years. One Award each in the disciplines of Cricket, Circle Kabaddi and Physically Handicapped Games is also given. The Govt. formulated Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award Policy during the year 2011. All Padama Shree Awardees, Arjuna Awardees and Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Awardees automatically qualify for Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award.


The Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award Function is being organised on Monday, 29th April, 2013 at 3.30 PM at Tagore Theatre, Chandigarh. Sardar Parkash Singh Badal, Hon’ble Chief Minister, Punjab has very consented to be the Chief Guest and give away the Awards to the recipients. Sardar Sukhbir Singh Badal, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister, Punjab has very kindly agreed to preside over the function. Sardar Sukhdev Singh Dhindsa, Hon’ble Member Parliament and President, Punjab Olympic Association would also grace the occasion. Hon’ble Ministers of the Punjab Govt., Chief Parliamentary Secretaries, MLA’s, Senior Officers of the State Govt., Padma Shree Awardees, Arjuna Awardees, previous Maharaja Ranjit Singh Awardees, Olympians and International Players are likely to attend the function. A souvenir is also being brought out on this occasion.
He said that the Punjab during last five years has focused on upgrading the Sports infrastructure of the state and endeavored to provide latest sports infrastructure to sportspersons, so that they can train and compete with their international counterparts.
Besides laying a Synthetic Track at Village Ghudda and replacing the worn out Synthetic Hockey Surface at Burlton Park, Jalandhar, it has constructed/upgraded 6 Hockey Stadiums in the State including Hockey Stadium, Sec-63, Mohali, Govt. Rajindra College, Bathinda, Govt. Barjindra College, Faridkot, Hockey Stadium, PAU, Ludhiana, Hockey Stadium, GNDU, Amritsar, Hockey Surface at Village Ghudda (Btd.). Mr. Badal said that in addition to this, Multipurpose Stadiums have been constructed/upgraded at Bathinda, Mansa, Sangrur, Ludhiana, Jalandhar, Hoshiarpur, Gurdaspur, Amritsar, Village Badal (Btd.) and Jalalabad (Fazilka).


Announcing the new initiative of the government to encourage students to opt for sports as a career, Mr. Badal said that he has asked Education department to work out a plan to introduce sports as a elective subject in boards examination whose grades would be counted in the aggregate marks. He said that by doing so sports would be a compulsory subject in every school and we would be able to nurture the budding youth into international players.


Announcing the organization of Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh Punjab Games in priority sports disciplines some times in the third quarter of the year, Mr. Badal said that prize money of Rs. 25.00 lac per discipline would be given to the first three position holder teams. He said that 100 players in each discipline would be ranked on the basis of their performance in these games. Sports scholarships at the rate of Rs. 10,000/- per person would be given to the ranked players. Similarly Junior Ranked Players would be given a sports scholarship of Rs. 5,000/- per head.


The Deputy Chief Minister said that the Punjab government had been magnanimous in enhancing the quantum of Cash Awards to the sportspersons who win medals in Olympics, Asian, Common Wealth and other National & International Competitions. He said that any player of the state who wins an Individual or Team Gold Medal in Olympics will be awarded Rs. 2.25 crore. Mr. Badal said that the Silver and Bronze Medalists would take home Rs. 1.01 crore and Rs. 51.00 lac, respectively. The Gold, Silver and Bronze Medalists of Asian Games would gain Rs. 26.00 lac, Rs. 16.00 lac & Rs. 11.00 lac and Commonwealth Games Rs. 16.00 lac, Rs. 11.00 lac & Rs. 6.00 lac, respectively. Badal said that the Govt. presented Cash Awards to the tune of Rs. 9.81 crore to such sportspersons who brought honour to the state.
Badal said that during last five years we had created 10 Group-A posts for the medalists of Olympics, Asian and Commonwealth Games and appointed the players on the posts of Deputy Superintendent of Police Rajpal Singh (Hockey), Avneet Kaur Sidhu (Shooting), Gurbaz Singh (Hockey), Manjeet Kaur (Athletics), Amandeep Kaur (Hockey), Palwinder Cheema (Wrestling), Ronjan Sodhi (Shooting), Manavjit Sandhu (Shooting), Harwant Kaur (Athletics) and Harveen Sarao (Shooting).


Underlining the efforts of State in nurturing the budding sports talent, he said that the Govt. is putting up concerted efforts to create a pool of talented players by inducting players into Sports Wings and Sports Academies. During the year 2005-06 the number of players admitted in the sports wings was only 300 which has been gradually increased to more than 4000 in the year 2012-13. In the residential sports wings, the players are provided a diet of Rs. 200/- per day/per head, lodging, sports equipment, sports kitting and training at the Govt. expense. Day scholars in the sports wings are given a diet of Rs. 100/- per day per head along with other facilities.


The Govt. has established specialized Sports Academies at Olympian Surjit Hockey Academy, Jalandhar, Football Academy Mahilpur (Hoshiarpur), Dashmesh Martial Art and Sports Academy, Anandpur Sahib (Roopnagar), Shooting and Hockey for Girls, Village Badal, District Mukatsar.
He said that the players admitted in these academies are provided boarding/lodging, education, transport, medical, sports equipment, kitting and training facilities.




Bansal launches website of vatika school for deaf & dumb


School also provide training in drawing & painting, computer, typing, beauty parlour, cutting & tailoring and caning: mrs. vandana r. singh
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School also provide training in drawing & painting, computer, typing, beauty parlour, cutting & tailoring and caning: mrs. vandana r. singh


Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): “Hats off to the teachers and parents of these wonderful kids who have put in relentless effort in carving the life of these children”, said visually ecstatic Pawan Kumar Bansal, Union Raliways Minsiter, after watching the colourful cultural programme presented by the special children at Vatika High School for Deaf & Dumb children, Sector 19-B, Chandigarh, here today.


He was here to take part in the function of this school as the Chief Guest, which was organized to launch of the official website and release of the souvenir. “One must see it to believe it. Dancing and performing Bhangra to the music tunes and beat which they can not hear, is really amazing” said Bansal. He said that although the nature has deprived these children from some basic qualities of listening and hearing but at the same time they have been blessed with some subtle extraordinary skills, that we don’t possesses. He announced a monetary help of Rs. 6 lakh for this school from his MP LAD fund.
While welcoming the Chief Guest Vandana R. Singh, President of the ‘Punjab IAS Officers’ Wives’ Association’ (PIOWA) ,in her key note address threw light on the history and future prospects of the school. She said that Vatika High School for Deaf & Dumb children, Sector 19-B, Chandigarh is a venture of PIOWA. This Association is a registered body and having own defined constitution and by-laws. It is a voluntary welfare Organization which undertakes charitable and philanthropic work on voluntary basis for the welfare of women & children specially for the hearing impaired children.



Singh further said that the Association started the Vatika School for Deaf & Dumb children at Karuna Sadan, Sector 11-B, Chandigarh in the year 1991-92. She said that all the facilities have been provided to the disabled children in the School at par with a public School. Besides education the School provides training vocational in the field of Home Science, Physical Education, Drawing & Painting, Computer, Typing, Beauty parlour, Cutting & tailoring, Caning, Photostat & lamination, making of Greeting Cards, block printing and Paper making so that they come earn after the education in order to live with honour in society.


Neelam Dutta, Principal of the School delivered vote of thanks. She said that the education is being imparted to the disabled children through the qualified teachers. The School is running classes from Class 1st to 10th and the School has been affiliated with Punjab School Education Board, Mohali, upto Secondary from the academic year 2004-2005. The present strength of the School is 120. She said that this year 15 students appeared for 10th exams result are awaited. Till last year result was 100%.



Punjab Congress not to allow Wealth Tax: Bajwa


Mullanpur Dakha (Ludhiana), April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): PPCC President MPartap Singh Bajwa today assured the people of Punjab that PPCC w....
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Mullanpur Dakha (Ludhiana), April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): PPCC President MPartap Singh Bajwa today assured the people of Punjab that PPCC would not allow implementation of Wealth Tax on farmers and he is meeting AICC President Sonia Gandhi and Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh on May 29 to request them to defer the proposed amendment in this regard in Finance Bill 2013.

While addressing a dharna held here against police highhandedness, Mr.Bajwa said that he had already taken up the issue with Union Finance Minister Mr.P Chidmabram and he assured to resolve the issue. He said that the notification to impose wealth tax on unproductive agriculture land was issued in 1993. He said that Shiromani Akali Dal was raising the issue only to get political mileage.



PPCC President warned the Punjab Police against registration of false cases against Congress leaders and said that Police is failing in its primary duty of controlling crime and providing security to common people. He said that false cases were registered against three Congress MCs who are dedicated Congressmen.

Mr.Bajwa said that Congress was ready to contest Panchayati Raj elections but the ruling SAD-BJP government was hell bent to grab village Panchayats, Block Samitis and Zila Parishads by hook or crook. He said Chief Minister Mr. Parkash Singh Badal rose to ranks from Sarpanch of his village and it is shameful that now he was trying to block deserving candidates from opposition to win the elections.



Bajwa said that SAD leaders should not live in illusion that they will every time befool the people and win the elections. He said that in democracy voters are powered to change the regime.


Sunil Jakhar CLP leader said that Congress party would expose the misdeeds of SAD-BJP government in public. He said that this government has survived on false promises and people now understand their game plan.

Others who spoke on the occasion included S. Gurcharan Singh Boparai MLA, S. Amrik Singh Dhillon MLA, S. Gurkirat Singh Kotli MLA, S. Jassi Khangura, Sh. Lakhvir Singh Lakha, Sh. K. K. Bawa, S. Malkiat Singh Dakha, Sh. Vikram Bajwa, Sh. Pawan Dewan, S.Ishar Singh Meharban, Mrs. Malti Thapar and S. Malkiat Singh Birmi.



INLD seeks emergency session of Haryana assembly over wealth tax

Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Opposing the proposed wealth tax on the farmers the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) demanded for a immed....
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Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Opposing the proposed wealth tax on the farmers the Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) demanded for a immediate special session of Haryana Vidhan Sabha to discuss the issue.


In a statement issued here today the party said that this step of Congress government will completely ruin the farmers of the state. INLD senior leader and MLA from Ellnabad, Chaudhary Abhay Singh Chautala along with Shri Ashok Arora, party state president, said that Hooda Government should call a vidhan sahba session and should unanimously pass a two line resolution opposing the perposed wealth tex on farmers. The party announced that they will also fight the election on party symbol for seven Municipal Corporations. On the occasion, MLA Pradeep Chaudhary, Nasim Ahmad, RS Chaudhary, M S Malik, Ex MLA Nafe Singh Rathi, Ashok Sherwal, Ram Singh Brar, NS Malhan, Manoj Aggarwal, Pradeep Gill, Baldev ahlawalpur and many other party leaders were also present.


INLD leaders said that congress government is going to pass an amendment bill in lok sabha, according to which the agricultural land adjoining to the municipalities, municipal corporations and cantonment board would be declared as a Urban land and is proposed to impose one percent of collector’s rate as annual wealth tax.

They said that there are 53 municipal committites, 9 Municipal Corporation and 24 councils and 2 cantonment boards in Haryana. And accordingly, around 85 percent of agriculture land will come under this tax and farmers have to bear a loss of 30,000 to one lakh per acre per annum.
While blaming the congress government, INLD leaders said that the government is taking such harsh steps so that farmers would forced to sell their land to the builders on the price for a song. They further said that they will aware the farmers on this issue, if government would not call an immediate session and will protest against the government.

The congress government had already ended the subsidy on fertilizers, diesel and seeds.
Abhay Singh Chautala, said that Hooda government had appointed their favorite 12 candidates whose names he told to media much earlier out of the six thousand candidates for the post of fourth class employess in Haryana vidhan sabha. Now the government has going to appoint Sandeep Nandal for the post of Marshal and Nitin Malik already working as asstt. AG for the post of deputy secretary in Haryana vidhan sabha. Earlier in a meeting Chaudahry Abhay singh Chautala and Shri Ashok Arora has reviewed ‘ek booth das youth yojana’of Yuva INLD and gave instructions to the party members to complete this plan before 31st May.



Capt Amarinder condemns attack on Sarabjit

Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Former Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh today
condemned the brutal and murderous assault on Ind....
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Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Former Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh today
condemned the brutal and murderous assault on Indian national Sarabjit
Singh in Kot Lakhpat jail in Pakistan on Friday. He said, this was
quite inhuman to treat someone in such a barbaric manner with the sole
motive to kill him.


Expressing his sympathies with Sarabjit’s wife, daughters and sister,
Capt Amarinder appealed to the government of India to ensure that his
life is saved at all costs even if it meant getting him shifted out of
Pakistan for proper treatment.


In a statement issued here today, the former Punjab Chief Minister
said, just because Sarabjit is on death row and his mercy petitions
have been rejected does not provide anybody the licence to make such a
brutal attempt on his life. “This betrays a brutal and barbarian
mindset of the people who have assaulted him”, he observed, while
hoping Sarabjit recovers from coma at the earliest.
Capt Amarinder wanted that the government of India lodge a strong
protest with the Pakistan government over this incident, besides
making proper arrangements for the family members to visit him there
and be his side during the time of his treatment.


He hoped that the government of Pakistan and the federal government of
Punjab there takes serious note of the issue and ensures the safety of
other Indian prisoners lodged there. He pointed out, such incidents
only hurt the sensitivities of the people and lead to tensions when
everybody on the both sides wants peace and harmony to prevail.



Brutally beaten Indian national Sarabjit in deep coma at Lahore hospital

Lahore, April, 27(BB):A prisioner and Indian national Sarabjit Singh has gone in a "deep coma" and put on ventilator support after being assaulted b....
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Lahore, April, 27(BB):A prisioner and Indian national Sarabjit Singh has gone in a "deep coma" and put on ventilator support after being assaulted by a group of prisoners in a Pakistani jail.
According to the reports of Pak Media the Doctors attending on him today said that they will not be able to perform surgery on him till his condition stabilizes. Official sources said, doctors were unable to perform surgery on him on Friday because of extensive internal bleeding caused by a severe head injury.
Sarabjit, 49, was in an Intensive Care Unit of the state-run Jinnah Hospital in Lahore, where he was admitted on Friday after being brutally beaten by at least six other prisoners within his barrack at the Kot Lakhpat Jail.
According to these reports Sarabjit was hit on the head with bricks and his face, neck and stomach were cut with blades and sharp pieces of a tin. Kot Lakhpat Jail authorities have ordered an inquiry into the incident.
External Affairs Ministry spokesman of Pakistan said that the officials of India's High Commission in Islamabad obtained access to Sarabjit in the ICU of Jinnah hospital in Lahore this morning. Sarabjit was initially taken to the hospital within the prison on Friday. After his condition worsened, he was shifted to Jinnah hospital.
Sarabjit was hit on the head with bricks and his face, neck and stomach were cut with blades and sharp pieces of a tin. Kot Lakhpat Jail authorities have ordered an inquiry into the incident.
Meanwhile a report from Amritsar indicates that health of his sister Dalbir Kaur on Saturday deteriorated due to high blood pressure and chest pain.

People of Bhikhiwind the hometown of Sarbjit observed a coplete bandh on Saturday.



Seven Punjab students on NASA trip missing in US

Nakodar, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Seven students who were part of the 50-member team that went on an educational trip to the National Aeronaut....
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Nakodar, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Seven students who were part of the 50-member team that went on an educational trip to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration ( NA S A ) , Washington DC, have gone missing, raising suspicions that their parents had a hand in this. Whereas all except the said seven students returned on April 23.



The school authorities said the idea could be to settle them in the US. The rest returned on April 23. The students are from State Public School (SPS), Nakodar; SPS, Shahkot (both run by one management); and Emm Aar International School.


Three of the students — Sahil Kalra (SPS, Nakodar), Jaskaranbeer Singh ( SPS, Shahkot) and Lovedeep Singh (SPS, Shahkot) — were reported missing during the trip to the Niagara Falls on April 18 and the police were informed. The others are Karanjot Singh (Emm Aar International School, Adampur); Manveer Singh and Harpreet Singh Chattha (SPS, Nakodar); and Ranjeet Singh (SPS, Shahkot). Karanjit was reported missing from Florida, and the rest from New York.


Whereas after repeated calls, the parents of three students Ranjit Singh, Lovedeep Singh and Jaskaranbeer Singh — turned up and expressed unawareness of the whereabouts of their wards.



No homework, Punjab govt has just rhetoric

State govt has no material evidence to back case



Chandigarh, April 27 (Curtsy Hindustan Times by Pawan Sharma) Behind the p....
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State govt has no material evidence to back case



Chandigarh, April 27 (Curtsy Hindustan Times by Pawan Sharma) Behind the panic button the Punjab government has pressed over wealth tax on agricultural land also seems to be an amendment proposed in the Finance Bill, 2013 that the income from farmhouses on agricultural land in urban areas will not be considered as agricultural income, it has emerged.


While the state government and the Congress woke up on Thursday on this emotive issue, the income tax (I-T) department had, in 2006, dropped the bombshell in the form of wealth tax on some farmers whose agricultural land has now been attached after they failed to get relief from the Supreme Court.


The rhetoric of the SAD-BJP government notwithstanding, so abysmal is the preparation of the government that it has no material evidence to back its case that farmers were receiving notices from the I-T department. The state government did not even have the official copy of the proposed amendments in the Finance Bill, 2013.
Top government sources say that at the root of the promptness the government has shown in launching an offensive against the union government is the "eyeopening" case of two Jalandhar farmers, who owe allegiance to the ruling SAD, and various other amendment proposals of the Finance Bill, 2013, including imposition of wealth tax on agricultural land by declaring all lands falling within the aerial radius of 8 km of municipal limits as "urban lands."
Rajinder Singh Nagra and his brother Gurdeep Singh of Jalandhar had been jolted in 2006 by the wealth tax on their farmland when they received a notice from the I-T department for 1999-2000 assessment year.


After exhausting the legal remedies before the I-T department, the Nagra brothers petitioned the Punjab and Haryana high court, where their petition was dismissed in April 2011. The high court held that the agricultural land within the urban area falling under the definition "urban land" was clearly covered by the definition of "asset" under section 2 (ea) of the Act". The apex court also upheld the HC verdict, Rajinder Nagra told HT.


Now, the 30-acre land of Rajinder Singh Nagra, SAD's circle president of Jalandhar, and his brother Gurdeep Nagra, a former councillor, has been attached by the I-T department for recovering over Rs 51 lakh from them for the assessment years 1999-2000 to 2008-2009. Government sources pointed out that one of the proposed amendments to the Finance Bill was that income from farmhouse situated in urban agricultural land would not be considered as agricultural income. The urban agricultural land has also been included within the definition of the term “asset” for the purpose of charging wealth tax.
It is being estimated that at least 85% cultivable land would come under the ambit of this tax if the proposed amendment bill in question, which is likely to be tabled in the Lok Sabha on May 6, is passed. Under this move, all types of agricultural land within the parameters fixed will be treated as urban land and will be subject to wealth tax at the rate of 1% of the collector rates.


While the urban agricultural land is also included within the definition of the term “asset” for the purpose of charging wealth tax, the existing provisions define the term “capital asset” as property of any kind held by an individual, whether or not connected with his business or profession. Besides, certain categories of properties, including rural agricultural land, have been excluded from this definition in the existing provision, according to government functionaries.


‘NOT A NEW THING’
Ashok Manchanda, chief commissioner of income tax and income tax ombudsman (J&K, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab and Chandigarh), said, "Under the Income Tax Act, if agricultural land is in a city or within 8 km of municipal limits, wealth tax can be imposed on it. It is not a new thing."


It is learnt that in and around Jalandhar, about 100 such notices have been issued for wealth tax on agricultural land. With land prices high in many cases, the annual wealth tax on these plots is turning out to be equal to or even more than the income from agriculture in a year.


Another farmer, Alep Parkash Singh, who owns agricultural land in Khurla Kingra village of Jalandhar district, said his family was being asked to pay over Rs 11 lakh as wealth tax alone from 2003 onwards. “We are getting notices for penalties also,” he said.
It is learnt that the I-T department started levying wealth tax around a decade ago. After some farmers, including the Nagra brothers, lost their cases, the I-T department started issuing notices for the recovery of wealth tax at a faster pace.


PROPOSED AMENDMENTS


In Finance Bill, 2013, it is proposed to provide that land situated in any area within distance measured aerially (shortest aerial distance), (1) not being more than 2 km from local limits of any municipality or cantonment board and which has a population of more than 10,000 but not exceeding 1 lakh; or (2) not being over 6 km from local limits of any municipality or cantonment board and which has a population of over 1 lakh but not exceeding 10 lakh; or (3) not being more than 8km from the local limits of any municipality or cantonment board and which has a population of more than 10 lakh, shall be considered as urban agricultural land and hence forms part of capital asset. Further, income from farmhouse situated in urban agricultural land will not be considered as agricultural income.



Ludhiana cinema blast accused Sandeep Singh dies at Nabha jail

Patiala, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Sandeep Singh, a man arrested in 2007 for his link to the terrorist bomb blast at Ludhiana’s Shingar cinema ....
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Patiala, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): Sandeep Singh, a man arrested in 2007 for his link to the terrorist bomb blast at Ludhiana’s Shingar cinema house that year, died on Friday inside Nabha’s maximum-security jail. The jail authorities attributed the death to illness and heart attack. Sandeep Singh was under treatment at the PGI in Chandigarh.



Punjab doubles MBBS fee to Rs 25000

Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab Government has almost doubled the fee for MBBS courses in the state from the current academic ....
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Chandigarh, April 27 (babushahi.com bureau): The Punjab Government has almost doubled the fee for MBBS courses in the state from the current academic session taking it to Rs 25,000 from existing charges of Rs 13,500. This includes a tuition fee of Rs 17,000 which earlier was only Rs 8,500.


The government has also increased the admission fee from Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000, reliable sources said.
The fee for MBBS second year, has been increased from Rs 13,500 to Rs 25,000. The tuition fee will be Rs 20,000. The fee for the third year has been increased from the existing Rs 13,500 to Rs 25,000. The fee for the fourth and the fifth year has been increased from Rs 17,000 to Rs 27,000


Punjab has 10 medical colleges out of which three belong to the government. Government Medical College and Hospital, Patiala, has 150 seats, Government Medical College, Faridkot, has 50 and GMCH, Amritsar has 150 seats.



Central Cooperative Bank Bathinda has earned operating profit of 8 Crore till March 2013: Gurpreet Maluka MD




By Amrit Pal Brar


Bathinda: April 27: The Central Cooperative Bank (CCB) Bathinda is in operating ....
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By Amrit Pal Brar


Bathinda: April 27: The Central Cooperative Bank (CCB) Bathinda is in operating profit of more than 8 Crore rupees till March 2013. This was disclosed by Gurpreet Singh Maluka Managing Director of CCB Bathinda while talking to babushahi.com.


Gurpreet Singh Maluka who was recently re-elected MD of the bank second time in row appreciated the bank staff for doing commendable work and achieving targets set by the CCB board. Maluka said at present the business of the bank is around 1100 Crore rupees and we are achieving all set targets in time bound period just with 180 employees in 39 branches of CCB in the district. In 1995 the business of the CCB was 95 Crore only we have increased it 12 times added Maluka.


Maluka who is known as a proactive and energetic leader of cooperative movement told we have built a new modern bank building of CCB at the cost of 3.50 Crore rupees in record time of one year as the earlier building was in bad condition as it was constructed in 1957. This bank was established in 1949 its building foundation was laid on 18.10.1956 and inaugurated on 1.11.1957. CCTV cameras and alarming system is being installed in all the branches shortly. 540 lockers are also available in the head office branch for the consumers added Maluka.


Maluka informed that CCB Bathinda consists of 900 member societies out of which 183 are agriculture societies. CCB is also providing loans in non-farming sector to various categories which include vehicle loan, second hand vehicle loan, loan against rental income, loan against property, loan for construction of godowns and cold stores and cash credit limit to traders.


Gurpreet Maluka is also Vice President of Youth Akali Dal since the last many years and he is a Director of the Punjab State Cooperative Bank an apex body of the cooperative banks.



Wanted prisoners Kulwinder Singh and Nahar Singh killed in “Police encounter”

Bathinda, April,27(BB): Two of the three absconding prisoners of Bathinda jail has been killed in an encounter with Police near village Behiniw....
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Bathinda, April,27(BB): Two of the three absconding prisoners of Bathinda jail has been killed in an encounter with Police near village Behiniwal in Mansa district as claimed by Bathinda police .The names of the killed are Nahar Singh and Kulwinder Singh.IG Bathinda Zone Nirmal Singh Dhillon told babushahi.com that both of them were killed when they opened fire on a police party last night. The third persons accompanying them are still absconding. Mr Dhillon further told that the police has recovered the SLR rifle and a Pistol from their possession. These weapons had been snatched by them the day before yesterday from the police party carrying them to the Bathinda jail. These three prisoners had been fled after killing one Policeman and injuring the other near Maiserkhana when they being taken from Panchkula to Bathinda.The third Jaswinder Singh is still said to be absconding.All the three belong to Village Jai Singhwala distt. Bathinda
A resident of nearby village VS Brar told babushahi.com that encounter's ist fire was started at 10.30 Pm and last fire was heard at 3Am. earlier firing was near Behniwal village later moved to Kassi (canal) and there dead bodies were seen by locals... heavy Police kept on coming in night ..as it was very dark so people unable to say anything...Locals say out of 3, 2 are killed one escaped...



300 persons attended workshop on Cyber Crime at Chandigarh

Chandigarh,April 26(BB):Chandigarh Police under the Chairmanship of, Rajesh Kalia, DSP Cyber Crime organized a workshop on Cyber Crime, wherein aroun....
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Chandigarh,April 26(BB):Chandigarh Police under the Chairmanship of, Rajesh Kalia, DSP Cyber Crime organized a workshop on Cyber Crime, wherein around 200 managers and employees of the Chandigarh Banks and around 100 employees of Chandigarh petrol pumps were participated with Chandigarh Police team: Inspector Jasbir Singh, Insp. Reena Yadav and Inspector Sukhwinder Singh, PRO-cum-I/C CRU, and beat in-charges of all police stations

Rajesh Kalia, gave introduction regarding Cyber Crime Cell and made all present aware about cyber crime and modes operandi of the cyber criminals. During the meeting the bank employees sensitized regarding the security features like in banks, ATMs, installation of CCTV cameras, security guards in banks buildings as well as ATMs. They were advised to co-operate with the police department to curb the banking frauds as well as cyber frauds. The bank representatives also shared their views and suggestions.

During the meeting with petrol pump representatives, all were sensitized about growing of frauds of ATM, skimming and cloning out petrol pumps. They were advised to keep a strict watch on their employees and install CCTV Cameras at all strategic locations where swipe machines are kept.

All present were told about the mandate of Chandigarh Police with regard to Cyber Crime and a working atmosphere with full co-operation and purpose of constitution of dedicated cyber cell.



24 IAS in the Country to retire on April 30, 2013

New Delhi, April 26 (babushahi.com bureau): As many as 24 IAS officers from different State Cadres in the country will retire from Govt. service on Ap....
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New Delhi, April 26 (babushahi.com bureau): As many as 24 IAS officers from different State Cadres in the country will retire from Govt. service on April 30, 2013 after attaining the age of superannuation. Punjab IAS 1997 batch S K Sharma is in the list of retirees.




(JL/jR)



INLD delegation submits memorandum to Haryana Governor demanding bonus on wheat

Chandigarh, April 26 (babushahi.com bureau): The Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) delegation led by INLD state president Ashok Arora today submitted mem....
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Chandigarh, April 26 (babushahi.com bureau): The Indian National Lok Dal (INLD) delegation led by INLD state president Ashok Arora today submitted memorandum to Governor Haryana Jagannath Pahadia and demanded that the wheat growers of Haryana be given a wheat bonus of Rs, 250 per quintal since the State has been honored with the Krishak Karnam Award for wheat by the Government of India.





INLD delegation including Rampal Majra MLA from Kalayat, Sh. Digvijay Singh Chautala, MLA Pardip Choudhr and other senior party leaders.





The delegation reiterated that Chief Minister Hooda had chaired a committee of chief ministers that had recommended to GOI to fix the support price of wheat on the formula of the cost of inputs plus fifty percent of that cost. Since Chief Minister Hooda himself had calculated the input cost at Rs. 1613 per quintal therefore the minimum support price should have been Rs 2400 but ironically he himself has failed to implement his own recommendations.






(JL/jR)



UPSC member Vijay Singh resigns

New Delhi, April 26 (babushahi.com bureau):Govt. of India has accepted the resignation of Vijay Singh from the post of Member, Union Public Service Co....
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New Delhi, April 26 (babushahi.com bureau):Govt. of India has accepted the resignation of Vijay Singh from the post of Member, Union Public Service Commission with effect from 3oth April, 2013.





(JL/jR)



Hry. Govt. gives additional charge to 2 IAS officers

Chandigarh, April 26 (babushahi.com bureau): Haryana Government has given additional charge to two IAS officers with immediate effect.


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Chandigarh, April 26 (babushahi.com bureau): Haryana Government has given additional charge to two IAS officers with immediate effect.




Ashok Khemka, Secretary, Archives Department has been given the additional charge of Director General, Archives relieving Vikas Yadav of the said charge.




Brijendra Singh, Managing Director, Haryana Warehousing Corporation, Director General, Technical Education and Medical Education and Research has been given the additional charge of Special Secretary, Medical Education and Research.








(JL/jR)



Anil Goswami appointed as New Home Secretary, GOI

New Delhi, April 26 (babushahi.com bureau): Govt. of India has appointed Anil Goswami, Secretary, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment as Home S....
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New Delhi, April 26 (babushahi.com bureau): Govt. of India has appointed Anil Goswami, Secretary, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment as Home Secretary, Ministry of Home Affairs for a period of two years from the date of taking over the charge of Home Secretary, vice Raj Kumar Singh.




Anil Goswami, is appointed as OSD in the Ministry of Home Affairs in the rank and pay of Secretary with immediate effect and till the date of his assumption of charge as Home Secretary.








(JL/JR)



NCRP initiates a project on Cancer Atlas in Punjab : Minister replies in Lok Sabha

New Delhi, April 26 (babushahi.com bureau): An Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) team had visited several districts of Punjab in September, 20....
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New Delhi, April 26 (babushahi.com bureau): An Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) team had visited several districts of Punjab in September, 2010 to assess, inter-alia, the magnitude of cancer occurrence in the State. The team noted that limited information on cancer occurrence in these areas was available through survey reports and the limited data suggested that the prevalence of cancer in the entire state of Punjab as indicated by the surveys was not higher than others of India.




In December, 2012, a cancer awareness and early detection project was launched by the Government of Punjab covering whole of the State and all age groups. A copy of the interim report of this survey has been submitted to the Ministry and considered by a Committee consisting of Experts of AIIMS, ICMR, and PGIMER, Chandigarh. The experts have opined that the following details are not available in the report :




(i) Date of first diagnosis,


(ii) Sex of the Patient,


(iii) Basis of diagnosis whether microscopic confirmation/report was available or not and was based on self reporting and


(iv) anatomical site of tumor.




In the absence of same, it cannot be determined whether these are true incidence or prevalent cases of a particular year or by sex or by site of tumor.




The National Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP) has initiated a Project on Cancer Atlas in Punjab, a Population based Cancer Registry in Government Medical College, Patiala and a Hospital Based Cancer Registry at PGIMER, Chandigarh. Periodic visits and workshops by NCRP team are being made since the last two years.




While Health is a State subject, to supplement the efforts of the State Governments in prevention, detection, treatment and management of cancer cases, Government of India has launched a comprehensive National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases & Stroke (NPCDCS) in 2010 in 100 districts across 21 States including 3 districts from Punjab. Under the programme, financial assistance upto Rs.1.00 lakh per patient is provided for chemotherapy drugs to treat 100 Cancer Patients per district.




The programme also envisages strengthening Government Medical College Hospitals and erstwhile Regional Cancer Centres (RCC) across the country as Tertiary Cancer Centres (TCC) for providing comprehensive Cancer care services. These institutions are eligible for financial assistance upto Rs.6.00 crore (Rs.4.80 crore from Centrasl Government and Rs.1.20 crore from State Government). Grants-in-aid of Rs.4.8 crore as Government of India’s share to Guru Gobind Singh Medical College and Hospital, Faridkot (Punjab) under TCC component during 2011-12 has been released.




In addition, this Ministry has also recognized Post Graduate Institute Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh as a Regional Cancer Centre. This information was given by Minister for Health & Family Welfare Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad, in written reply to a question in the Lok Sabha today.  






(JL/jR)



UPSC announces result of written part of Section Officers'/Stenographers' (PDF file attached)

New Delhi, April 26 (babushahi.com bureau): The UPSC has announced the results of the written part of the SOs’/Stenographers’ (Gr.’B’/Gr.’I’) Limited ....
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 New Delhi, April 26 (babushahi.com bureau): The UPSC has announced the results of the written part of the SOs’/Stenographers’ (Gr.’B’/Gr.’I’) Limited Departmental Competitive Examination, 2009, 2010 & 2011 held by the Union Public Service Commission in December, 2012 for addition to the Select Lists for the Section Officer’s and the Stenographer’s Grade’B’/Grade’I’ of the services, the candidates with the under mentioned Roll Numbers have qualified in the written part/shorthand test for evaluation of service records.
The candidature of all these candidates is purely “PROVISIONAL” subject to review at the stage of evaluation of service records. If at any stage of the examination process a candidate is found to be not eligible for any of the year of examination i.e. 2009, 2010 & 2011 his/her candidature for any particular year/years is liable to be cancelled.



The result of the following candidate is withheld Roll No.006448



The marks sheets of candidates, who have not qualified, will be put on the Commission’s website within 15 days from the date of publication of the final result and will remain available on the website for a period of 60 days.




Union Public Service Commission have a Facilitation Counter at its campus. Candidate may obtain any information/clarification regarding their examination/ result on working days between 10.00 A.M. to 5.00 P.M. in person or over Telephone Nos.(011)-23385271/23381125/23098543 from this counter. (Details on PDF file).






(JL/jR)



CBI status report shared with Law Min: CBI Dir to SC

New Delhi, April 26 (babushahi.com bureau): CBI Dir Ranjit Sinha submitted before the Supreme Court that the agency's status report on coal allocation....
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New Delhi, April 26 (babushahi.com bureau): CBI Dir Ranjit Sinha submitted before the Supreme Court that the agency's status report on coal allocation scam was shared with Law Min Ashwani Kumar "as desired by him" and that senior officials of PMO and Coal ministry had also seen it.




Sinha's two-page affidavit filed on the direction of the apex court contradicts the claim made by CBI counsel on the last date of hearing that the coalgate scam report was not shared with any member of the government. "I submit that the draft (status report)of the same was shared with Law Minister as desired by him prior to its submission before the Supreme Court....it was also shared with one joint secretary level officer each of Prime Minister's Office and Ministry of Coal as desired by them," the affidavit said on Friday.





The affidavit triggered a political storm with the Opposition saying the Law Minister's continuance in office has become untenable and demanded his resignation. On his part, Kumar said, "Truth will prevail". The CBI Director said whatever he has to say, it was before the apex court. In his affidavit, Sinha assured the apex court that the agency will not share further status reports in this case with any member of the political executive.





He also said that the latest status report being filed on Friday has not been shared with any political executive in any manner whatsoever. "I confirm that the present status report being filed in this court has not been shared with any political executive in any manner whatsoever.





"In respect of further status reports of the investigation and inquiry required to be filed in this matter before this court, I undertake and assure this court that the same shall not be shared with any political executive," the affidavit said. The affidavit was filed in compliance with the Supreme Court's order which, in an unprecedented move on 12th March, had directed the CBI director to assure the court that the status report in the coalgate scam is not being shared with the government.





Sinha was directed him to file an affidavit in this regard. The affidavit belies the claim made by Additional Solicitor General Harin Raval on behalf of CBI on 12th March that the probe report in the scam has not been shared with any member of the government and it is only shared with the apex court after being vetted by the CBI director.





Earlier, the CBI and the Centre had clashed over the coalgate scam with the agency telling the apex court that there have been "arbitrary allotments without scrutiny" in the coal blocks allocation during UPA-I tenure and the government vehemently refuting the findings saying that the "CBI is not the final word on this."





In the status report filed by CBI on 8th March, the agency had said that the coal block allocation during 2006-09 was done without verifying the credentials of companies which allegedly misrepresented facts about themselves and no rationale was given by the Coal Ministry in giving coal blocks to them. Indicating that the entire allocation might be cancelled if no legal procedure was followed, the apex court had directed the government to explain why a small group of companies have been "picked and chosen" for allocation of coal blocks out of the large number of companies that applied for it. The court was hearing a PIL filed by various members of civil society including former CEC N Gopalaswami, ex-Navy chief L Ramdas and former Cabinet Secretary T S R Subramanian and advocate M L Sharma seeking a SIT probe into the scam.




\
In the beginning when the Supreme Court had taken up the case for hearing, the CBI had expressed reservations in sharing the findings of probe in the scam but it had to file the status report in a sealed envelope on the direction of the apex court. Hearing the case has been slated for 30th April.







Govt rules out resignation of Law Minister




Unfazed by the Opposition's demand, the govt ruled out the resignation of Law Min Ashwani Kumar who said that he has done no wrong in the matter concerning CBI's report to the Supreme Court on the coal scam. "I have done no wrong. Truth will prevail," Kumar said after a meeting of UPA chaired by Sonia Gandhi and attended by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Friday.





Kumar, whose sacking is being demanded by the Opposition parties, also met the Prime Minister to give his version on the issue. He also met Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kamal Nath separately. "There is no question of his resignation. He is not going to resign," Nath told reporters in New Delhi after the meeting when asked whether Kumar had offered to resign.





With regard to the CBI affidavit, he said, "It is for the court to decide." Sources close to Kumar said he can't be faulted as it is in CBI's remit to consult the Law Minister on documents having legal ramification. They also said that since Kumar is not the executive authority controlling CBI, the agency is free not to share any detail which it does not want to.





They also indicated that a meeting with CBI did not mean the CBI report was altered. Suggesting that there was no wrongdoing by Kumar, Nath said CBI has stated that only the draft report was shown to the Minister and not the final report.





To a question why the officials of PMO and the Coal Ministry were also present during the CBI meeting with the Law Minister, he said the contents of the report were to be provided by the Coal Ministry and the Prime Minister had held the coal portfolio for some time. "The legal aspect is looked into by the Law Minister," Nath said. He spoke to media after Gandhi and the Prime Minister held consultations with UPA leaders in the wake of CBI affidavit filed in the Supreme Court earlier in the day.





In the affidavit, CBI Director Ranjit Sinha said the agency's status report on coal allocation scam was shared with the Law Minister as desired by him and that senior officials of PMO and the Coal Ministry had also seen it. Nath said the UPA meeting also discussed the logjam in Parliament for the last four days and the ways to end it.





"We discussed how Parliament can function from next week through better coordination. The UPA Chairperson held discussions with the allies. The discussion centred on non- functioning of Parliament and unacceptable demands by some political parties. We discussed what can be done so that Parliament can function from next week," he said. On BJP's demand for resignation of the Prime Minister, Nath said, "In the last nine years, they have put forth this demand every three months. It is not justified."




(JL/jR)