Reflection of life Listen and appreciate each other

PS Bali

Often, we are so stuck in our old beliefs and patterns that we aren't able to see the changes we need to make. Even when we feel frustrated about our problems, we may not recognize the need to learn to change things. That is why we need to use the mirror of life. Everything in our lives reflects where we are in the process of developing integration and balance. We can use everything that happens externally as a mirror to help us see the areas within us that need healing and development. Whenever we have a problem, especially a recurring or chronic problem, it is always an arrow pointing directly to some aspect of our psyche where we need more awareness.

If we accept that life is always trying to teach us exactly what we need to learn, we can view everything that happens to us as a gift. Even experiences that are uncomfortable or painful contain within them a key to our healing and prosperity. We may have difficulty understanding what the mirror of life is trying to show us, but if we sincerely ask for the learning and the gift in every experience, it will be revealed to us one way or other.

One of the clearest reflections we have to work with is the one provided by our relationships. Everyone we attract into our life is a mirror for us in certain ways. All of our relationships - our families, children, friends, co-workers, neighbors, pets, as well as our romantic partners -- reflect certain parts of us. How we feel with someone is usually an indication of how we feel about the parts of us that they mirror.

We all attract certain people into our life who have developed qualities opposite to the ones we are most identified with. In other words, they mirror our disowned selves, and we mirror theirs. These are often the most highly emotionally charged relationships. We either love them, hate them, or both! We feel very attracted to them, and, or very uncomfortable, judgmental, annoyed, or frustrated with them. The stronger the feelings, the more important a mirror they are for us. We have drawn them into our reality to show us something about what we need to develop in ourselves. The fact that we have such strong feelings (one way or another) toward them means that they are showing us a part of ourselves we need to acknowledge, accept, and integrate.

This does not mean we have to be with them or hold onto a harmful or inappropriate relationship. It just means that as long as they are in our lives, or even in our thoughts and feelings, we can use the relationship as a learning experience. It also does not mean we are supposed to become like them. They may carry an energy we need more of, but they may be too far to the opposite extreme, or they may express that energy in a distorted way.

Still, we can look for the positive essence in the opposite qualities they carry. For example, if you have been taught never to express any anger, you will probably at some point find yourself in relationship with a person who expresses their anger frequently and vehemently. Life is giving you a strong message that it's time for you to learn to acknowledge your own anger. It is not saying you have to become like this person and go around dumping your anger everywhere. Instead, you need to find the appropriate balance, learning how to assert yourself and stand up for yourself.

If we are strongly identified with power, we will attract vulnerable, needy people. This mirror is reflecting our need to recognize and accept our own vulnerability. If and when we do that, the needy people in our lives will either become more empowered, or will move out of our lives. If we are overly vulnerable and disown power, we will find ourselves in a relationship with someone who uses power one way or another. We will feel overwhelmed, controlled, or victimized by them until we own our power, at which point the relationship will either dissolve or become more equal.

We often seem to gravitate toward a romantic or business partner who has an opposite approach to financial management. If the difference is not too extreme, this can be a complementary and harmonious balance in which we appreciate and learn from each other's strengths. If we are highly polarized, however, it can be painful and frustrating, leading to a great deal of conflict and stress.

Still, it is a gift - an opportunity to recognize how we identify with one polarity and a chance to develop the opposite energy we need. Like any relationship issue, it requires that we communicate with one another, and be willing to listen and empathize with each other's feelings and perspective. If we feel stuck in our ability to communicate, it may be an appropriate time to call in a skilled third party -- a therapist, marriage counselor, or mediator -- to help us through. Personally, I find that most of us need help at certain times to get through the deep issues that are reflected in our intimate relationships.

The topic of relationships is a complex and fascinating subject. If you grasp the basic idea of how our relationships show us the next steps we need to take in our personal growth, you can begin to use your relationships as powerful guides on your path to true prosperity.

On Sikhism

PS Bali

Sikhism began in his lifetime. When Guru Angad became the second Guru of Sikhs, Guru Nanak gave him his collection of hymns and teachings in the form of a "pothi" (manuscript). Guru Angad added 63 of his own compositions and subsequently handed the enlarged manuscript to the third Guru, Amar Das. Guru Amar Das prepared a number of manuscripts, which he supplemented with 974 of his own compositions, as well as the works of various Bhagats. These manuscripts, known as GoIndwal pothis, mention the message of Guru Amar Das as to why the Bhagat Bani was included and how the Bhagats were influenced by Guru Nanak. The fourth Guru also composed hymns and preserved them in a pothi. The fifth Guru, Arjan Dev, in order to consolidate the Bani (Divine word) of earlier Gurus and to prevent spurious compositions creeping into the original text, decided to compile the Adi Granth. The ancient Sikh manuscript Tawarikh Guru Khalsa mentions that Guru Arjan Dev issued a Hukamnamah (official order), asking anyone who could contribute to do so. All of the sourcing and content of the Bani was reviewed, of the earlier Gurus as well as that of the Bhagats. Guru Arjan Dev's examination of the text sought to order and affirm the authenticity of the existing revelation. Guru Arjan started the work of compiling the Adi Granth early in 1599.

The final prepared volume is known as Adi Granth, or "original volume". It was written by Bhai Gurdas under the direct supervision of Guru Arjan who dictated the text. It included the compositions of the first four Sikh Gurus, to which were added those of the fifth Sikh Guru, Arjan Dev. The Adi Granth also contained the compositions of fifteen Bhagats, seventeen Bhatts ("bards", or traditional composers), and four others such as Bhai Mardana, a lifelong companion of Guru Nanak.

The Adi Granth took five years to complete and was installed in Harmandir Sahib ("the abode of God"), popularly known as the Golden Temple, on September 01, 1604, with Baba Buddha as the first Granthi. This original volume is presently in Kartarpur and bears the signature of the Guru Arjan. The Supreme Court of India holds that the Guru Granth Sahib should be, for historic and legal reasons, considered a 'Juristic person': "The Granth replaces the Guru after the tenth Guru. We unhesitatingly hold Guru Granth Sahib to be a juristic person." The court articulated this finding in the context of a case pertaining to a property dispute.

Another Hazare in the making hampered

PS Bali

Amid noisy camera clicks and on dispose huge footages, Baba Ramdev began his crusade against corruption and stashed black money in foreign banks. Little he knew that the government will not let him inflate hood to spew venom against it.

Just before the hours of Baba’s ultimatum to observe hunger strike, police swung into action and detained Baba by trampling hundreds of supporters, who were in half-conscious at the midnight. 

This action of government is a tight slap on the democracy of the country, where an individual is stopped for exercising his fundamental rights. According to Indian Constitution, Part III, article 19, where an individual is endowed with freedom of speech and expression, but on the name of law, police triggered panic among the supporters of the Baba Ram Dev at Ram Lila Ground, New Delhi.

Though, the action of the police was unjustifiable, but keeping aside emotional affinity and taking things practically. Let us assume that Baba Ram Dev’s protest was not hampered by the police and successfully he got to convince government of his demands, then what next.

First was Social activist Anna Hazare, who observed fast unto death for an anti-corruption law at Jantar Mantar, which received stimulating response from the public, and after 98 hours of strike, government kneeled in front of his demands, he demanded for Lok Pal Bill to bridle on corrupt practices by politicians and bureaucrats, which was accepted by the center and a Lok Pal Bill committee was instructed.

Undoubtedly, the crusade of Anna Hazare stirred people's imaginations, igniting one of the India's biggest mass protests in recent times, following same Baba Ram Dev, high-profile yoga guru announced a fast to compel the UPA government.

But, to what extend it is fair to bully government, who has a lot of other things to do, I may opine the act of Baba Ram dev as a well hatched conspiracy to malign government and to withdraw their attention from other important projects.

In personal, I admire Baba Ram dev but his decision to hold a protest against government is something strange. He knew that people will follow him, as he had ignited strong influence, but it will pay hard if used in negative sense.

We must not forget that present government has done a lot for the country in every sphere from nuclear power to economy and education.

Its under the present government, India became third most powerful country, just after US and China and international experts are gnawing that till 2025, India might outdo them too.

I am not a PR to the government, but I guess it should be highlighted that present government elevated standard of India to new horizons, it’s the only known country, which has been authorized to proliferate Nuclear Weapons, without being a signatory member of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT or NNPT).

I am puzzled, Yog Guru like Baba Ram Dev, who considers himself a patriotic Indian did not uttered a single word regarding spectacular achievements of the Government and now he came up with a crusade against government, though they call it crusade against corruption and black money.

It may be recalled that Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev, earlier had wished to enter main stream politics. And another fact which would not be snubbed is that recently, some Congress members questioned over the property of the Baba, to which Baba never answered.

If Crusade of Baba Ram Dev is believed to be true, then where the Yoga man was at the time when Anna Hazare took on to Jantar Mantar, at that time, if Baba Ram Dev had extended his support, the result would be yielded and government may have mulled over the issue more seriously.

Taking steps arbitrarily is no way to register protest against wrong doings, no matter how monstrous the act is, but things need to be sorted out genuinely and not by blackmailing, under the garb of opposition.

If going by the statistics, it showed that Baba Ram Dev’s protest was just a shoulder for the opposition to gather its vote bank. They convinced Ram Dev, under the name of religion and patriotism.

JKPSC declares CCE-2010 result in record time of 2 months

P S Bali

Jammu Tawi, June 1

Yet another time officials of the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) have something to be proud of. They have succeeded in bringing out the results of Combined Competitive Examination (CCE)-2010, in a record time of two months.

Announcing the results here on Wednesday, JKPSC Secretary, MA Bukhari gave the credit to the collective efforts of the officials, who coordinated the entire process in a flawless manner.

“The consistent efforts to reduce the time for announcing the results yielded outcome, a proof of the efficiency of those involved in the process,” said Secretary.

Making record by declaring result in two months for the examination held in April this year, the Commission officials have scrutinized around 18, 000 answer scripts in such a short span, which is an achievement in itself.

Another remarkable achievement in making is the notification of the Combined Competitive Examination, 2011, which will be publicized soon with about 142 vacancies.

“After this achievement, with the consistent efforts of the commission officials, the commission will soon notify more 142 vacancies of Combined Competitive Examination 2011,” said MA Bukhari, Secretary.

Bukhari also congratulated all the qualified aspirants and wished them a luck for further interview.

Well wishers write to Vigilance Commissioner regarding corrupt DySP

P S Bali

Jammu Tawi, June 2

 

Unraveling the transgressions of Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) Surjeet Kumar, being posted in SCRB Jammu, some well wishers of Police department on anonymity today wrote to the Vigilance Commissioner about the alleged misuse of power by the said DySP and they also sought verification in the matter.

If the well wishers are to be believed, Surjit Kumar is harming modernization of the police department by his unpleasant working. They alleged that Kumar has embezzled more than Rs 30, 000 by making fake train tickets during his posting in Delhi, Rajasthan and other places out of J&K, which are still placed with the IGP Crime, head quarter’s account section.

They said that Kumar is residing in police quarters at police station Bakshi Nagar and is also drawing house rent from police department, he has three drivers and four orderly with one driver and gunman with his wife. Apart from this, he is also producing bogus petrol vouchers, which he uses for his private car, which is against the set protocol of the department and is deceiving police.

Lobbing allegations, wishers said that DySP, Surjit Kumar robbed 300 bricks, two Cement bags, during work of SCRB bathroom and two UPS, computer chair, three electric pipes, mats and nine tube lights, which was meant for the renovation of SCRB computer lab.

Wisher further alleged that besides embezzling, he also made his lower employees to work for him, as one of his constable Avtar Krishan posted in SCRB has installed 10 Fruit Reharis and is also running a shop of Blue CD’s, for which he is paying to DySP.

Besides doing unreasonable expenses, Kumar is also indulged in other malpractices like misuse of computer, telephone, stationary, Photostat Machine. Interestingly according to wishers, Kumar has also created an atmosphere of casteism within the department, which is also not in the constitution.

Requesting Vigilance Commissioner, for intervening into the matter to save police department from corrupt and self-interested officers, who are razing the name of the department, anonymous well wishers urged for verification of the said DySP.

80% polling in panchayat elections in Mendhar

PS Bali

Mendhar, June 2

An estimated 80 per cent voters today exercised their franchise in the 13^th phase of Panchayat elections under tight security cover at Mendhar.

A total of around 62384 voters, including men and women thronged polling booth to bolt the fate of about 418 Panches and 49 Sarpanches in Mendhar.

Men and women turned up in great number at polling stations earlier than the scheduled time and casted their votes in peaceful and decent manner.

Apprehensions of the previous phase of elections, where more than two dozen people were injured in clashes between two groups that occurred at polling stations, tapped authorities to clamp high security in the area. In this regard a huge deployment of cops was placed on job to maintain peace and order in the region.

To avert any mis happening and to ensure peaceful polling in the area, DC Poonch, Ajit Kumar Saho accompanied by SSP Poonch, Ashkoor Ahmad Wani remained active through out the day, instructing cops.

Notwithstanding high security, in the late hours of the polling, a clash took place between two groups at polling booth in ward no.3 of Lar Malkote, thus leaving 15 hurt, including five in critical condition.

Advertisements Vs Audience

PS Bali

A wise man has rightly said that general public has very short memory and they forget things very often. Following the quote, several Advertising companies in the race of competition to make space for their product in the market are hammering every possible nail to get identified. Such advertising companies believe in making strong influence in the market, either by hook or by crook, where latter rules.

Advertising is a form of communication used to persuade an audience (viewers, readers or listeners) to take some action with respect to products, ideas, or services. Most commonly, the desired result is to drive consumer behavior with respect to a commercial offering.

With the emergence of media, world was believed to be fashioned up into a global village, with information of the world at the press of button, but as an old saying goes that ‘excess of every thing is bad’, same happened with the popularity of the media, where several corporate houses in connivance of advertising companies made it a way to earn money by misleading the common audience.

For instance in 2007-2008, Cricket superstar and one of the best fast bowlers in the history of cricket, Wasim Akram came up with an advertisement on Indian television, while endorsing Diabetes check machine, “Accu-Check”, where he played a role of brand ambassador by involving audience with himself by being a diabetic patient.

It gained huge response from people and no doubt it is still great in use, for years Akram was found saying that after use of Accu-Check, he was able to take sugar free chocolates and other sweet items, having no sugar content.

But, the recent advertisement of Wasim Akram, where he is endorsing Chocolate KitKat, a product of Nestle, one of the most selling products in India, has contradicted his erstwhile brand (Accu-Check).

Earlier, Akram claimed that he consumes only sugar free chocolates, but as far as my knowledge is concerned, KitKat has no such product still available in market. Till date very few chocolate companies are offering sugar free product including Heilemann Dark Chocolate Marzipan Bar, DeBron Chocolate Wafers, Woodies Wafer Bars and product of like.

I mean how could a man, who year back was a brand ambassador of anti-sugar product, came up with such a product which carries maximum percentage of calories. May be I am wrong here, but statistics revealed the same and showing Mr Akram taking chocolate is something that pinched me most, as a patient of diabetes, one should refrain such products, but may be Accu-Check has improved diabetes of Mr Akram, who knows.

What can I call this, a professionalism on the part of Mr Akram or faking on the part of advertising companies, who are making fool of public, whatever it would be but to some extend advertising companies are running their monopoly by making celebrities to be their puppet and are using every possible way to reach out public.

This trend among advertising companies is usual, on the name of creativity and innovation they befool public. The advertisement of Akshay Kumar, endorsing ‘Thums-up’, where he jumps from mountains, beneath the water, trespassing speedy vehicles and fiddling with wild animals is again offensive, as it prompts youth to act like him. There are number of advertisements, which make fool of audiences and one which is striking my mind is that of NIRMA, in which a lady walking in the market is shown making water splashes standstill by rebuking water not to splash over her, which again seems insane, but it is enough for advertisers. These advertisers keep on creating new ideas, without bothering about, what they call passive audience.

Ideal of inspiration

PS Bali

Jammu Tawi, April 22

‘I have nothing to offer but blood, toil, tears and sweat", a line by Sir Winston Churchill, is what inspires 50-year-old Kewal to face every day like a challenge to ensure bread and butter of his family. Hailing from Bholi Chak village in RS Pura, Kewal Raj is handicapped by both legs, but despite mourning over loss of limbs, Raj has set an example for those who think that losing limb is the end of life. It sounds amazing but it is true that Kewal Raj, travels around 25-30 kms daily on his tricycle (especially meant for handicapped) and traverses nine villages to sell newspapers. "It is a daily routine for me to travel 25-30 kms to sell newspapers in nine different villages to earn livelihood. I leave home at 6 in the morning and travel a distance of nine kms to sell newspapers in different villages," said Kewal Raj.   Being handicapped people appreciate my working, "but at times I feel pity over my condition as even after selling 90-100 newspapers, I earn a trivial amount of Rs 30-40 a day," he rued. He aggrieved that to prove himself, he (Kewal), run across villages on his tricycle to sell newspapers. Notwith-standing rains, hailstorms and hot climate, Kewal maintains his responsibility to ensure newspaper copy to his customers. "I believe that nothing stops you, if you are dedicated to achieve something. I always ensure copy to my customers, despite bad weather," Kewal asserted. Kewal Raj is the only bread earner to sustain his wife and three children, and till date he hasn't received any help from government. "I started my career from a small shop in the village to earn livelihood, but after some time due to unavoidable circumstances, we closed it, after that entire family faced hard days," lamented Raj adding that when things around him scattered, he chose this profession of circulation of newspapers. "I believe that dreams and dedication are powerful combination, if one has both these factors, no power can stop him," said Kewal Raj. "I took tricycle of my friend with the object to provide two times food to my family. Though I never asked government for any help, but if government is generous enough it can provide me scooter to ease my work and to raise source of income," anticipated Kewal.

Rs 41 crore 18 holed Sidhra Golf Course of no use for common man

PS Bali

Jammu Tawi, April 27

Dubbing newly opened 18 holed Rs 41 crore Sidhra Golf Course a gift to Jammuties, Union Minister for New and Renewable Resources and National Conference patron Dr Farooq Abdullah on the inaugural day of the much talked first phase of Rs 21 crore 9 hole Sidhra Golf course on the bank of river Tawi, termed it as an immaculate facility for sports lovers.

But a million dollar question is can a common man afford Golf equipments, can he spare time for a day long game, can he enjoys free atmosphere of Golf course and moreover can he shell out huge sum to get membership? The answer is ‘No’, and it was visible on the day of inauguration of the Golf Course, where among many bigwig faces no common man was present, which contradicted the government claims of setting up Golf course for common man.

On inaugural day of the course chief minister said the government is keen to develop sports tourism in the state, which would help people of the state, but how it is going to help common person, when the place is inaccessible for common man.

“Golf is the ‘Game of Elites’ and no common man can afford this expensive game, so Rs 41 crore, project trenched in around 1400 kanals is for those at the helm of affairs of the state government and for their known and well class people,” said a student, Ajeet.

Adding that despite the fact that Golf is less popular in the state and majority of the people even don’t have any knowledge of the game, the government spent crores, thus depriving other major games of the state like cricket, football, hockey and others, where a common child can excel if provided better facilities.

It is said that growth of government is the growth of state and commoner, but here in J&K this saying is reciprocate, here whenever government grows the common man suppresses at the behest of those at the helm of affairs.

And by rebuffing the suggestion of senior golfer about Rs 50 entry for a game, Union Minister Farooq Abdullah made it clear that no commoner has right to enter golf course, as according to News reports he said that this course is of International standard and its maintenance should be of international level, which means course is suitably and legally meant for “elite class”.

18 years passed, victims still craving for government attention

PS Bali

Jammu Tawi, April 13

Killings, encounters and grenade attacks are all what the people of Jammu and Kashmir have witnessed for past two decades. Many youths were killed and many injured during epoch of militancy.

When the militancy was on its peak, widows, half widows, orphans, handicapped youths and razed houses were the picture of Jammu and Kashmir and even after decades this militancy could not be eliminated from roots.

Same happened with Rakesh Kumar, who lost his limb in one of the major terror attacks in Jammu.

Rakesh, son of Parshu Ram and Sheeto Devi, a resident of Ramgarh on the fateful day of 7 October 1992, lost his leg in an explosion that rocked Jammu.

“On October 7, I boarded a bus from Ramgarh to Jammu to have registration form of class 10^th_, from JK Board, when on reaching Digiana, a powerful explosion occurred and I went unconscious and when I retrieved conscious I found myself in the Hospital,” sobbed Rakesh.

He added that all other passengers were around me crying with pain and same was my condition. In that blast both my legs sustained serious injuries and the condition was as such that doctors have to lop off my one leg to save my life, aggrieved Rakesh, with tears flushed out of his eyes.

Resented with government apathy, Rakesh lamented that despite of such a mighty blast in which many feared have lost lives and others lost their important limbs, the government to subdue their flaws presented just Rs 25, 000 to each, which was sheer joke with injured passengers.

In that blast I lost my leg, but the Rs 25000, presented by then, Governor, GS Saksena was like he is making fun of injured.

“The relief that we received from the government was subtle before the expenditure that my family incurred on my treatment. We lend money from all relatives and neighbours to continue the treatment,” he said.

It’s been 18 years in trauma, since the tragedy occurred but no body from successive governments showed any concern towards us, Rakesh lament.

It is uncertain to imagine what would be the next design of nefarious terrorists and who will be the next target of these anti-national elements and when will another mother loses her son, another wife her husband and another son his father.

 

Rs 20, 50 and 100 are no currency notes

PS BALI

Jammu Tawi, April 2
Rupees 20, 50 and 100 are not just currency notes, but are the names by what the drivers points out traffic cops in the Jammu city, which becomes fatty for the cops positioned at highways. Interestingly, top-brass of the traffic department are also tagged with such names, besides low ranked cops. The drivers mocked that the names are labeled to them (traffic cops) based on the amount they shell out from the drivers and accordingly have been named. "We are like regular customer to many traffic cops in Jammu and now it is the feature of the day to shell out some percentage of earning to them," alleged the driver wishing anonymity, adding that higher officials are hand-in-gloves with low ranked cops in fleecing drivers. He said that no matter, the driver is legitimate or not, but he (driver) should have knowledge of cops share.  Within the city, there are many officers of traffic department from constable to inspector, who have been taking money on daily basis," the driver claimed, further revealing that most of the drivers plying on the city roads have shelved monthly share for these cops and a record of the same is maintained with the driver. Taking dig at higher officials of the traffic department, he said that due to the negligent and apathetic approach of the officials, the drivers are prompted to rash driving. "Taking advantage of the traffic department's approach, many drivers took to erring driving, thus resulting fatal accidents," he said. He acknowledged that no driver bothers about the traffic rules, as they know how tackle officials. "Rs 20 to 100, is all what an erring driver has to pay on the name of punishment for breaching any traffic rule," said driver. Ridiculing the insight of the drivers, IGP Traffic, Hemant Kumar Lohia, said that the drivers are habitual of violating rules, they make fun of others who try to rope them and are leveling allegations of corruption on them. "There is no uncertainty in saying that there are some elements in the department, who are promoting corruption, but the department is working on them and very soon this menace would be eradicated," assured IGP.

Bas Ek King-Song-Singh Is Kinng

Despite 2010 unrest, JKPSC has conducted 35 tests: Bhukari

PS BALI

Jammu Tawi, March 14

Even though the conduct of Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) has come under scanner with stake holders leveling allegation of favoritism and nepotism, the premier recruiting agency of the state has conducted a record number of 35 examinations for various gazetted, non-gazetted posts and departmental examinations across the state during past one year. The success was achieved by the commission despite 2010 summer unrest and other legal hurdles confronting the Commission.  

Talking to Newspoint, Secretary and Controller of Examination J&K Public Service Commission, M A Bhukhari rubbished the allegations of favoritisms and said that the Commission has received ppreciations for its timely and fair conduct of examinations. “These are mere allegations leveled by the people with vested interests. The selection of the candidates is purely on basis of the merit,” he said. The hue and cry, Bukhari added, is nothing but a plot to defame the Commission. “Why don’t these people raise their voice when an economically backward person qualifies the examinations? Those who always level false allegations should look into the record number of examinations conducted by the department during past year,” he said.“Such elements should see that during past few years the  Commission has made the conduct of examinations in the state as a regular feature,” he added, “aspirants should trust the commission.” In recently declared final lists of both Veterinary Assistant Surgeons and KAS, it was being alleged that the commission has adopted favoritism during the 

selection process. However, the response to the declaration of the results varied in Jammu and the Kashmir province with aspirants praising as well as denouncing the process of selection.

Ameet Kour, a Jammu University student and an aspirant of KAS, while appreciating the efforts of the commission said, “JKPSC is really working in a positive direction to uplift the state administration. Conducting so many exams gives no time to aspirant to doubt its functioning,” she said.

Ruling out any favoritism on regional lines, Kour said that nobody can be certain on the allegations leveled against the commission. Notably, in the KAS selection both the regions of state alleged favouritism and regional nepotism towards a particular region, however, the commission maintains that no such thing has happened.  “The list is testimony itself that out of selected 392, the majority of selected candidates are from Jammu, as Doda, Poonch, Rajouri, Kathua, Udhampur and other districts are all part of Jammu province which in itself proves a bent towards a particular region,” said a Kashmir based aspirant, Mubashir Hussain.

Jammu aspirants feel betrayed of JKPSC

                                               Trust of aspirant over commission is must: Bhukhari

PS BALI

Yet another time, aspirants of Kashmir Administrative Service (KAS) from Jammu are feeling betrayed by the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission (JKPSC) in the recently declared final selection list of 392 candidates.

In the declared list out of total 392 selected candidates, Kashmir got a major share of 162 in open merit and that too of a particular community, while out of a total of 234 selected from Jammu, only 28 Hindu candidates got place in open merit and 96 candidates were from reserved category.

Irritated over the disparity met to them, various aspirants also staged protest against JKPSC demanding explanation of the list.

“This is not the first time that Jammu aspirants have to protest against JKPSC, every time they (JKPSC) leave Jammu aspirants to fight for justice,” said one of the non selected aspirants, Kapil.

He added that already minced by the axe of discrimination from years, hard work of Jammu candidate is always ruined and “not to apply for these posts is the best option for a Jammu youth to refrain more discrimination,” he said.

Taking a dig at JKPSC, some privately run coaching institutes alleged that JKPSC is working under Kashmir influenced powers.

“The recent declared list makes it apparent that JKPSC is working to please their Kashmiri bosses and to appease anti-Indian protesters by providing them administrative seats,” said owner of reputed institute of Jammu, on the basis of anonymity.

They claimed that despite of hard work, Jammu aspirants are craving for justice on roads.

“We have students with potential to crack Indian Administrative Services (IAS) exams, but they are missing in the final list of the KAS, which ridicules the list and credibility of JKPSC,” he said.

Same examination earlier faced a stay, wherein some candidates belonging to reserved categories, aggravated after the declaration of KAS-2009 (Mains) results in September last year filed a writ against JKPSC, but it got clearance from court on February 10.

Talking to Newspoint, Secretary JKPSC, MA Bukhari rebuffed allegations and said “Interview panel comprises of eight members of the commission, so there is no scope for favouritism. Some elements for personal gains are trying to make it communal.”

He assumed that earlier some aspirants wasted their precious time in filing writ petitions against JKPSC, which resulted futile.

While advising, Secretary said that aspirants should trust commission and should concentrate on studies rather than challenging JKPSC’s working.

Nothing is impossible: A tale of dedication

                        

PS BALI

'Nothing is Impossible in this world' is in what Shallu Gupta believes in. Hailing from Ambgrota village near Kot Bhalwal, Shallu is handicapped by both hands but her determination and dedication to achieve her maintained aim of becoming a lecturer is firm and currently she is working as a contractual lecturer in Computer Science at Commerce College Jammu.

Born in 1978, Shallu met with a tragic accident, when she was only 17 years of age, where she lost her both hands and was on bed for at least five months. "In 1995, while installing television antenna at terrace, I came in contact with live wires and went unconscious and when I awoke I found both my hands missing, at that time it was hurting but support of my family made me stand again," Shallu said with smile on her face.

Even after losing both hands, Shallu was not depressed, so she continued her studies and did her intermediate from Government Higher Secondary School Mubarak Mandi, immediately followed by graduation in Science from Parade College for women with support of her family. "It was hard time for me to get out of the trauma, but 110 per cent support of my family especially my brother, who always stood next to me for my rescue, helped me a lot to fulfill my desires," said Shallu. After completing graduation, Shallu went for Masters Degree at Jammu University, but it was not her step. "After  finishing graduation, my mentor, Chandershekar advised me to go for masters in Computer Sciences, it was blind hit from my side, but I got admission and in University I used to be shy and less talkative, but friends of mine constantly backed me, which helped me to complete it", said Shallu. During her studies, she was adjourned as the best student and was conferred with a scholarship. Acting as an inspiration for many disabled persons, Shallu is of the opinion that nothing is impossible if you have that instinct to achieve targets. Working as a contractual lecturer, for past six years, Shallu is satisfied with her position but is still envisaging permanent lecturer post to serve Jammu people. "I always had an aim to be lecturer and with the God's blessings, after completing my masters, I got chance to teach computers as a contractual lecturer, which somehow satisfied me."

About future plans, Shallu said that she wanted to be a permanent lecturer and for this she is aiming for PhD and is studying hard to qualify NET exams. On whether, did she ever felt that people are underestimating her, Shallu said that at times some elements questioned about her potential, and every time she have to prove herself. When Shallu was questioned about government support, she said that never we did approached government for any help not did government reached us to assist. "I am self dependent and with the grace of god and support of my family and friends around me, I achieved what I had always aimed, now only thing that I want from government is my right of being a permanent lecturer," said Shallu, adding that she is all qualified of being a permanent lecturer, "I had a degree, experience and moreover that spark to enlighten others with the wisdom."

BJP: Patriotic or Traitor?

 PS BALI

Has Bhartiya Janta Party (BJP) lost its ground of being patriotic after failure of its much hyped and much talked Ekta Rally, where they mocked the Tri-colour from post to pillar?

Was the BJP proposed Ekta Yatra a reel in practicality or was just another political gimmick. Not hurting only sentiments of million of patriotic Indians, BJP’s stunt of unfurling National Flag at Lal Chowk, Srinagar also tattered repute of Tri-colour.

Under the huge speculations, nation wide, BJP launched Ekta Yatra from Calcutta to hoist national flag in disturbed area of Kashmir.

The Yatra saw various impediments, as in the start of the Yatra, chief minister J&K, Omar Abdullah warned BJP for its repercussions and recommended them to discontinue this Yatra, but to forge the iron of politics, BJP continued and so raised the anticipation of the Indian community.

In the wake of the Yatra, the market of the rumors was heated up and speculations were made that to counter the statement of separatists, BJP has made this Yatra firm and will not bend, less than hoisting flag.

But the true colours of the BJP was exposed when they, even after reaching Kashmir (some of the activists, who later were arrested by the J&K police), failed to unfurl flag. In Kashmir, activists of the BJP acted as they have been thwarted by the police, but the body language of the activist was reciprocating their much hyped firm decision.

As after leaving hotel premises, the activists rather than proceeding towards clock tower, started pretending from the very place with tri-colour in hands, to which security forces resorted to manhandling, which was pre-planned activity.

Forces jumped on flag, tried to fetch the flag from the hands of BJP activists and in that drama, it was national entity (Tricolour) which was being mortified.

Did any one ask BJP why they made statement of separatists, a pretext for organising this rally, was it to show that BJP is strictly opposing the school of thoughts of separatists, or was it a maneuver to gain public attention.

It would be shocking to learn that the BJP and Separatists are working under same umbrella. Did anyone ever ask Separatists that who is spoon feeding them, who in India made the separatists heroes and provided them bullet-proof cars and vests, Police and CRPF escorts and VIP treatment, no body knows but it is fact that none other than BJP-led NDA government of Atal Behari Vajpayee and L K Advani.

Contrary to the strong ideological clash between separatist leaders and the Sangh Parivar, there has been an equally strong chemistry between the two. The maximum possible security cover and recognition was provided to the separatist leaders during Vajpayee’s regime in 1999-2004.

Over 200 Police and CRPF personnel, are currently deployed on the “duty” of guarding the politicians disputing and abusing the sovereignty and integrity of this country. Even as ordinary constables or head constables are posted as PSOs with Cabinet Ministers and most of the mainstream politicians, Sub Inspectors and Assistant Sub Inspectors are functioning as heads of the security cover provided to the separatist leaders.

Mocking over the relation with separatists, BJP always pitched voice against anti-national activities of the separatists and hence making them a pretext to firm their stand of being nationalistic.

Coaching at grass root must: Sajid Dar

PS BALI


Following the footprints of his father, Mohammad Yousuf Dar, ace footballer of his time, AFC "C" and "B" license owned Coach, Sajid Dar started his football career in 1992, and never looked back. After representing almost all the big named football clubs in the state, and playing all in maximum number of big tournaments in and out of J&K state, Sajid opted to serve state with his panache of football and joined Kashmir University.Terming lack of proper coaching at the grass root level for the inconsistency of Jammu and Kashmir football team in major national football tournaments, despite having great talent, Dar shared that proper coaching at the grass root level is very important. In a crispy talk with Newspoint, Sajid Dar shared various pros and cons of the state football, besides his personal football career and needs to upgrade state football.
Excerpts…
*Throw some light on your childhood days. How did your interest in football emerge? When did you think of football as your career?
Dar: I did not take up the football till my schooling was over. However on the other side my father who was then the star footballer of the state and country as well used to take me with him to witness the matches and I was impressed by my father at my early age. I Started my career when I joined S P School in the year 1992 and from their itself I decided that I will choose it as my profession now. Football seems to be running in my family blood. I am always proud to be the son of the legendry footballer of the state and besides getting impressed by my father, Mohammad Yousuf Dar and was also impressed by my cousin Aslam Parveez Dar, who is also an ex-international player.I got the selection in my first trial at SP School in 1992. I was selected for district championship before getting selection for Junior National Championship in the same year, Then i joined Young Men Christian Association (YMCA) Club of Biscoe which was then the upcoming and most fan following team of the State. The players like Ishfaq Ahmed, Manzoor Dar, Majid Dar Intikhab Alam, Hilal Rasool and myself started our career from YMCA. I Captained, YMCA in many state and national level events including Federation Cup. After YMCA I played for City Club for more then three years and after that In Iqbal Sports and soon after that I started my coaching career.
* Can you tell us the process of obtaining a coaching license? Our readers might be interested to know the process. Can a person without any first class football playing experience go on to be a coach? Are there any restrictions?
Dar: There is a criteria set by the Universities/Institutes who are conducting different coaching courses for the coaches and as a candidate u have to fulfill all the criteria, like in NSNIS the eligibility they have set is that the qualification must be graduate and he must have represented state at various senior national tournaments in their respective discipline. There are coaches who are qualified but don't have the sound sports background and If you really want to set the example, then you must possess both, a sound academic and sports background as well.* What is the "special thing" about Football, which makes it stand apart from the rest of the sports?Dar: Football is the most popular game of the world. Football is world-wide sport, almost everyone plays. No other sport is being played and watched by so many people. It can be played all over the world, and with fairly cheap equipment. One can choose football as a profession.
* You have had an extensive coaching experience. Please tell us about your tenure as the head coach KU?
Dar: I started my coaching career soon after getting diploma form NSNIS Patiala. I got my first coaching assignment in the year 2004-05 when Dr K A Tarzan former DPE of Kashmir University called me to coach Kashmir University Football Team.
After that I was appointed the coach of under 21 football team by JKFA and besides JKFA also gave me some assignments for the Youth Development Programme and in the 2006 I got appointed as the Football Coach of Kashmir University in the Physical education and sports department. Recently I also attended the youth development programme organized by AIFF at Goa. And I am also coaching one of the leading Clubs of the State Iqbal Sports and recently we have won the All India Police Martyrs Football Tournament. Besides me and Hilal Rasool of JK bank are among the few coaches of the country who have done diploma in football coaching and also AFC "C" and "B" license courses.
* Please tell us about Your new project. Do you see such an initiative being a success in J&K.
Dar: Football has game me name as well as fame and it is only because of football I am being recognized I have devoted my life to football and I want to do something for the betterment and upliftment of football. As all the football lovers know that few years back we launched FPWA in Srinagar and FPWA is planning to start a football academy in the month of May or June, this year with the collaboration with SPUNP group and football by Carlos Queiroz and by the blessings of Almighty and the support of the football loving people of J&K it will certainly be the new beginning of JK football. Insha Allah.
* Education and Sports are inter-related. How can these two avenues be combined so that there can be an all round development of a child plus their interest in sports grow.
Dar: The benefits of sport reach beyond the impact on physical well-being and the value of the educational benefits of sport should not be under-estimated. In addition to physical development, education and sport also have strong influences on inclusion and community building, character-building and community safety.
* What changes do you think J&K Football should incorporate if it is to be successful?
Dar: We are always talking that we have a lot of talent in JK. But why we are not consistently performing on the national level, why we cannot produce players like Mehraj, Ishfaq, Arun Malhaotra regularly. The answer is that there is lack of proper coaching at the grass root level, which is very important. I have seen coaches very keen to take assignments when it comes to the senior national events but nobody bother's to conduct the coaching classes for the young and budding footballers of the valley. I request the JKFA and other organisations who are directly or indirectly involved with football that their should be the regular coaching camps for the youth development and each coaches and teams performance should be monitor regularly.
* What developments should we need to create club culture in State?
Dar: As we all know that football is the most popular sport of our state. Apart from the departmental teams like JK Bank, JK Forest, JK police, who are atleast offering jobs to the players but there is also a big role of the private clubs in the state and I hardly find any sponsors for those clubs. These clubs are been run by personal efforts of their respective managing bodies. And during the season the players and management face lot of problems like refreshment, playing kits, pocket money and the rehabilitation for the players. From my personal point of view if these clubs get the sponsors who can atleast fulfill these demands I hope more and more players will take interest to this game and definitely the competition level will also improve and when the competition level will improve we can improve our performance at the national level. 
* What are your future plans?
Dar: I am a coach of Kashmir University Football Team and it is my dream that Kashmir University should qualify for the All India Inter Zone Football Tournament and after qualifying at least once we should be the champion's of All India Inter University as well.

Corruption Hollowing System

J&K state to lead the tally of corrupt states, if all goes wrong

PS BALI

The day is not far, when Jammu and Kashmir, state would lead the tally of most corrupt states of the India, and the day will soon come when it will become the most corrupted isle on the world map with almost every second person tainted of being corrupt.

Not like many other states, corruption or bribery in J&K state is on rampant and is engulfing great intellects to elusive personalities. At one time, bribe was paid for getting wrong things done but now bribe is paid for getting right things done at right time.

Many people touched this concept, with their own context many-a-times, some held government responsible for uncontrolled corruption, whereas many cursed system and its functioning. But nothing changed, moreover this menace took wild shape by entering into the minds of the people by exerting upon them that corruption is the ‘word-of-day’ and you cannot do anything without taking it affirmatively.

In our daily life, most of us must have been a witness to or a victim of the corruption thriving in some or the other part of the country. It could be in the form of a taxi-driver manipulating the meter to jack-up the reading or a government officer taking bribery to promptly transfer your file to the next department or even yourself offering bribe to a traffic police on breaking a signal.

Even though the higher ushers of this menace, ‘administration’ has took it for-granted, for them corruption enhances the ways of revenues.

At present J&K state figures at number 2 in India in context of corruption, but as the Bihar government is mulling up to start anti-corruption year, with J&K without any maneuver, will ultimately shove J&K to number one spot, which would be pride moment for our so-called corrupt genre.

Some days back while running through Indian Express, I found that Chief Minister of Bihar, Nitish Pawar holds a resolution of making Bihar corruption Free State for Year 2011, eventually yielding special status.

On one hand India’s number one corrupt state is mulling to descend, whereas J&K state is stagnant in making any result oriented resolution to curb this menace.

Bihar Chief Minister summoned all his leaders to declare their assets, which would be a great step to intensify government’s fight against corruption.

But what about Jammu and Kashmir that is running out of ideas to eliminate corruption, rather one can say that Jammu and Kashmir administration is not interested to work on it.

As an old adage goes, ‘Corruption is like a ball of snow, once it's set a rolling it must increase”, same is case with Jammu and Kashmir, here the people are accepting bribery to grab more and more bugs, which subsequently ascends state towards ever increasing corrupt zone. As per official data around 665 registered cases of corruption are under the State Vigilance Organisation and Crime Branch against public servants including several IAS officers.

Competition of earning more and more, jostles common man into ditch of this grave torment. The inner sense of the man is waning over some currency notes, he may take prestigious rank after offering money, but he can’t repute that position.

Every person blames government for being liberal against corruption but at individual level every one of us had offered huge or subtle money to get our work done with ease.

Here in Jammu and Kashmir, the corruption seems ever lasting as the façade of the functioning is concerned, from peon to bureaucrat, every body is maligned with corruption, here our politicians play pivotal role and made J&K shine in this race by embezzling huge sum of funds.

Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah is less worried to put an end on it, or he doesn’t have much time to think over it, from his busy schedule and ‘Blackberry Games’.

This is the high time for the state government to show some strict accountability in eliminating this disease, which altogether is hollowing system of the state.

After price hike, now traders resort to hoarding of onions

PS Bali

Jammu Tawi, January 15

Owing to the inflation of various edible products in the market, especially onion and tomatoes, some local dealers and traders in the wake of earning more profit have allegedly started hoarding the commodity, leaving commoners to lurch.

On the one side soaring rate of tomatoes and onions has broken the back-bone of the commoner, whereas on the other side hoarding has added to their miseries.

With tomatoes over Rs 35-40 per kg and onions with Rs 47-50 per kg have shaken the budget of common man and now shortage has multiplied their woes.

Some shopkeepers at the terminal points, say the supply of onions has come down by almost 50 per cent as the crop was damaged due to unprecedented rains, whereas the most of the crop has been hoarded by big players.

“For the sake of earning more profit, some self interested dealers have hoarded large quantity of onions and tomatoes,” said a vegetable vendor, Subash, adding that due to their greed, “we have to sell it on exorbitant rates.” The increase in onion and tomato rates is turning profitable only for such dealers and not for others.  

He further said that the hike in onion and tomato rates is likely to jump more as huge quantity of consignment is stocked for black-market.

Talking to Newspoint, president, Jammu Vegetable Association, Vijay Kumar said that there is less supply of onion from main markets, as huge quantity has been spoiled due to unprecedented rains, so there is a less chance of hoarding by traders. He said on an average around 10-20 trucks reach Jammu mandi, daily with onions, but due to shortage in the main markets, this time only one truck reached here.

He anticipated that with the arrival of new crop this price spiral will see a decline. “It will take more than 15-20 days to get the new crop and once this reaches the markets, prices of onions will also come down.

Despite generating, state plunges into dark

                                        Public needs awareness to shun illegal usage: Qasim

PS BALI

Jammu Tawi, January 11

Though Jammu and Kashmir State is generating enough electricity but with the onset of winters the unscheduled power cuts become a regular feature.

This is despite Chief Minister Omar Abdullah asking the Power Development Department (PDD) to recover outstanding dues from various departments as well as people.

Ironically government is the biggest defaulter as far as a paying power bills are concerned.

Adopting a heavy-handed approach against others for making recoveries, PDD has failed to recover over crore of pending rupees from various government departments and to retain this loss department has implemented curtailments, mostly during prime hours.

According to sources more than 20 government departments, including various wings of PDD itself, have not deposited their electricity Bills, compelling PDD to resort to unscheduled power cuts.

In addition to the breach of CM, the department has also added to the miseries of students, preparing for various examinations.

“PDD has maximized our miseries in this cold with persistent power curtailments. Our examinations are over head and every minute is precious, but due to constant power cuts, we are unable to concentrate, courtesy PDD,” said an engineering student, Adil Yousuf, adding that it is hard to study in dark and in cold, it is obvious that in winter one can’t sit without proper heating arrangement.

When during winters, power is much consumed as compared to rest of the year; the department emerges with more strict curtailments.

“If PDD is imposing curtailments with the pretext of over loading and extra consumption, then they must have to act strictly against illegal connections and has to work passionately in realizing more revenues and in curbing pilferage,” he said.

The condition of the tamper-proof areas is also same, as residents of such areas allege PDD for deliberately imposing curtailments.

“In our area, the PDD had installed electronic meters to check pilferage and during installation we were promised continuous power supply throughout the season, but with the arrival of winters, the supply has been irregular,” said Lakhvinder Singh, a resident of the Digiana locality, adding that the power supply, if linger for subtle odd hours is single line with very low voltage, which is of no use.

Admitting the fact, PDD Chief Engineer, Mohd Qasim said that the curtailment is the penalty of over-loading, “as during peak hours people in almost all areas make unnecessary use of illegal power supply, thus disturbing the setting,” said Qasim, adding that people by making superfluous use of electricity are bothering other legitimate consumers.

He also appealed public to shun pilfering, as it creates disturbances in scheduled setting, following creates inconvenience to many others. Welcoming people to work as enticers (Khabris), Qasim said “we appreciate the people to come forward and complaint against those, using illegal connections.”

It is pertinent to mention here that PDD is continuously raiding areas and is putting all its effort to curb illegal usage and in recovering pending Bills from people.

In the raiding drive, the department has already suspended four of its workers for deceiving department, said chief engineer.

Education in 2010: Year of crests and troughs

PS BALI
Jammu Tawi, December 29
Like any other area, education sector of the state also witnessed various crests and troughs during year 2010. From protests to negotiations, seminars to publications, criticism to admiration, targets to miss-outs, participation to pull outs and from controversies to achievements, the sector had surprises through out the year for Jammuites.It all started with the allocation of Central University (CU) to Jammu, what many tout as mother of all controversies in the sector, followed by number of political, social, educational, partial, inspirational, self-vested and discriminative agitations.The appointment of Prof. Amitabh Mattoo, as Vice Chancellor of the CU, however, was expected to mark the beginning of its functioning.But the controversy over it would not be pacified here only, when the other 30 Central Universities all over the country had almost completed their one session, even though its counterpart, CU in Kashmir has also started its proceedings. The CU granted to Jammu has been the victim of political melodrama and is craving for constitution, even as Jammuites are anticipating its functioning in coming year. In limbo for past one year, the Central University raised many eyebrows over the working of management, it seems perhaps wrong to say that regionalism was extending its roots in the state over the controversy of Central University, which was dedicated by centre with the motive of promoting education system of the state. The year also witnessed impersonation scam, where renowned politician has to bequeath his chair, paper leakage scam came out this year and superintendent involved in this also get caught red handed.
When on one side constitution of CU created number of hurdles and headaches in the working of higher education, while the year had something to cheer about for the education sector as well.Notwithstanding its lows, higher education in 2010 attained new glories, with 8-10 per cent of augmentation in literacy rate, in addition to Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) of state, which touched 12 per cent from 7.09 per cent. The achievements of the higher education could be sensed with the ever increasing literacy rate and infrastructural rate that reached on six universities, excluding Central University and more than 90 government colleges in addition to around 323 privately run colleges. Beside, this many infrastructural development including hostels, laboratories, libraries, sports infrastructure and other such growth was also witnessed in the year.  Contradicting the achievements of higher education, 2010 also beheld various miss-outs, which pulled back this strife-torn state, the continuous protest by students, teachers and non-teaching faculty for many legitimate and some illegitimate demands. Rejection of Union Human Resource Development Ministry on the demand of the State Government for more funds for the construction of 18 polytechnics, whose fate is hanging in balance for the past over one and half year because of the financial constrain.Meanwhile similar was the year for Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE), where the literacy rate jumped to 65.67 per cent from paltry 55 per cent, the number of school dropouts also reduced from 3.67 lakh to 0.39 lakh due to opening and upgrading of primary schools, establishment of education guarantee scheme (EGS) center and organising seasonal camps.
During this year, to meet the shortage of teaching staff, about 6,000 teachers were selected by Service Selection Board (SSB) and 54,497 Rehbar-e-Taleem (ReT) teachers were engaged in newly opened and upgraded schools.4,242 primary and 616 middle-school buildings were constructed and 4,585 additional class rooms and 330 computer learning centers were          established.
As per official data around 8.51 lakh and 3.14 lakh children have been covered at primary and upper-primary level, respectively under mid-day meal scheme. Alike controversy of CU, JK BOSE also witnessed agitations, over the superannuation of chairman, Desh Bandhu, which was not accepted by the student community.

Cr rupee mistake: Floriculture blames ‘natural calamity’

PS BALI 

Jammu Tawi, January 5

In the days after slight rain washed away the embankment of the canal at Gangyal, the ill-planning of the Floriculture department not only eroded embankment, but also washed away crore of rupees used for construction of a park alongside the canal.

Blaming the floriculture department, an engineer of Irrigation department, said that no one at the helm of affair in Floriculture department approached Irrigation department for this project.

“The technical wing of the floriculture department initiated work on its own, without consultation of Irrigation department, which resulted in a disaster,” he said, adding that the department dug the sides of the canal which ultimately led to breach.

Interestingly signpost hanging on the wall of Director’s cabin contradicts its working which goes, “Strength in the forearm is of no use, if there is no strength in forehead”

Whereon, one side the residents are craving for legitimate compensation from the authorities, on the same side the department is anticipating ‘more aid from the government to resume this project’.

Group of aggrieved residents claimed that due to entering of water into their houses they incurred a huge loss. They alleged that “the department and contractor continued their digging even during the rains”, which weakened the embankment of the canal.

“We sought compensation from concerned department for the loss of our property, as if they initiated work, they must be versed with the pros and cons of the project,” lamented Rakesh, a resident and vice president of Youth NC Jammu province.

The residents also expressed anguish saying that after the episode, “no Floriculture employee visited here to take stock of the situation, we had a narrow escape as all our houses were inundated in the water,” said he, adding that what would be the consequences if this breach happened at night time.

Earlier, inaugurated on December 26 by the Minister of state for Revenue and Relief, Raman Bhalla the project was in its infancy and by the alleged negligence of the department on December 31, it eroded the embankment of the canal.

Denying the allegations, director, Floriculture department, KK Sharma said that it was due to natural calamity and as far as sliding of the embankment is concerned “it starts from the other end of the canal” which has no link with tilled area.

“We excavated only two feet after leaving distance of six feet between canal and the digging area,” said Sharma, adding that the sliding of the embankment starts from another corner and it was due to natural calamity.

Admitting that they did not consult Irrigation department, he said that “due to time constraint and pressure, we started work without consulting any department.”

On whether, resumption of project, Director said that they will start project again “after proper consultation of the Irrigation department” and expected aid from government.

Rain exposes Floriculture dept’s callousness

PS BALI
Jammu Tawi, December 31
Few centimeters of rain in Jammu, where on one side provided a sigh of relief from persistent dry weather conditions, on the other hand exposed tall claims of the government of heading towards positive development, wherein an under construction park at Gangyal has eroded the embankment of the canal, allegedly by the mistake of contractors and workers of floriculture department.Inaugurated on December 26 by the Minister of state for Revenue and Relief, Raman Bhalla the project was in its infancy and by the alleged negligence of the department it damaged the nearby embankment of the canal, causing inconvenience to the locals, with water entering the houses. “This project was initiated by the Floriculture department some five days back, but as per its condition it seems it was ill-planned and was not prepared for rains,” said president of residents association, Baldev Singh Baloria, adding that due to this damage residents have to face great trouble, as water entered into their houses damaging costly appliances and furniture.Residents of the area also held contractor, who is executing the works responsible for the damage and demanded a probe against him and the department.“Despite of poorly planned project, Floriculture department, and contractor continued their digging process even during the rains, which has weakened the embankment of the canal, resulting into flooding,” said Baloria.The residents also expressed resentment over the working of the Irrigation department as after hours of incident they failed to reach the spot.“All the government departments are working to please their bosses, as after informing Irrigation department in the wee hours, they reached the spot after five hours, which showed their interest,” said Baloria, adding that after Minister Raman Bhalla reached spot, all the departments including DC also appeared on the spot.Raman Bhalla released Rs 12 lakh for the restoration of damaged canal and instructed Irrigation department to complete work on priority basis.

4 month long stir lashes working journalists, leave them jobless

PS Bali
Srinagar, December 13
During the four months long turmoil in valley, when everything was on hold, Kashmir at utmost incurred huge loss and it will inevitably take them next one year to reimburse it and to stand back. As when the strikes and curfews broke back bone of Kashmiri traders, Kashmiri youth were the prime fraction at receiving end.
When, number of private companies functioning in Kashmir, wrapped up their business after sensing prolonged strikes, left thousands of Kashmiri youth at the mercy of god, and increased the miseries of state government by augmenting ratio of unemployed youth in the state.
Alike other professions, the working journalists in the Kashmir were also engulfed by this lay out wave, wherein many reputed newspaper organisations thinned their staff, where as many others slashed remuneration of its employees to about 50 percent.
Dismayed over the harsh step of the organisations various senior journalists stated it as prejudice with the working journalists, as working in Kashmir in such atmosphere was lurking to death.
“In Kashmir, reporting is like working on edge as you never know what happens next in Kashmir. And it was more precarious working during turmoil of four months, pertaining to which many organisations ousted maximum of their working teams,” said a senior journalist, Irfan.
Journalists are of the view that government is much responsible for instigating owners of the organisation to take such a harsh step and they demanded provision for journalist community in Kashmir. “We had been swindled by the organisations as well as government; by imposing curfew for prolonged time government bound organisations to lay off their staff, as for around two months newspapers didn’t hit stalls, which impressed owners to incur less loss,” said he, adding government should came forward to retrieve this so-called fourth pillar of the society.
On one side where journalists blame organisations and government responsible for all, the owners of the various organisations say that it was not eternal, “we inspired upon journalist to take it for a time being, as this industry was incurring huge loss as for days together, newspapers remain off the site,” said owner of reputed newspaper, on condition of anonymity.
He added government didn’t lend us time to think over it neither government allowed journalists to work in constructive atmosphere. So now its government, who have to assure any alternative for journalists, if they allow journalists to work in sincere and constructive air, we are open to take them back in our organisation.
Contradicting claims of owners, journalists said that their colleagues were ready to work on half pay instead of any lay off, but owners of the organisations denied their call, due to many reasons better known to them.
“We don’t want to challenge owners and government, but we just want government to keep alive ethical profession and let them work ethical,” said journalists.