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Tue, 27 November 2012
Namdhari's passport impounded
Timeline Refresh
23:09 Namdhari's passport impounded
Passport of Sukhdev Singh Namdhari, former chief of Uttarakhand Minorities Commission, was today impounded by the regional passport office in Jalandhar.
"After a complaint, the office sent a show cause notice on Namdhari's address, however, it was undelivered and returned back to us," said Parneet Singh, regional passport officer.The postal department told us that no one lived at the address, Singh said.
"After that we have impounded his passport, which was issued to him from here in May 2006," the officer said.
An Uttarakhand resident had complained to us that the former state minority panel chief gave a wrong address while applying for the passport, Singh said.
22:46 Bangladesh to free 72 Indian fishermen
Altogether 72 fishermen, who were held in Bangladesh for violation of the international water boundary, were likely to return tomorrow, West Bengal Urban Development Minister Firhad Hakim said today.
The matter has been settled through negotiation between the two countries and the intervention of West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee. The fishermen were detained there for some time after they strayed into Bangladesh territory due to cyclonic weather.
The matter was heard by a local court there, Hakim said, adding that they were ultimately released. "They are now ready for return to their homeland," he added.
22:32 Sheila Dikshit undergoes angioplasty
Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit today underwent an angioplasty procedure at a private hospital here following blockage in one of her arteries.
The angioplasty procedure was carried out on 74-year-old Dikshit at the Fortis Escorts Heart Institute where she was admitted last night following uneasiness and throat infection.
Dr Ashok Seth, chairman of Cardiac Sciences in the Hospital performed the angioplasty on Dikshit. Angioplasty is a non-surgical procedure which is performed for widening blocked arteries and improve blood circulation.
"She is fine fine now," a close aide of Dikshit said.
22:18 Samples taken from Arafat corpse for poison tests
Forensic experts took samples from Yasser Arafat's uncovered corpse in the West Bank on Tuesday, trying to determine if he was murdered by Israeli agents using the hard-to-trace radioactive poison, Polonium.
Palestinians witnessed the funeral of their hero and longtime leader eight years ago, but conspiracy theories surrounding his death have never been laid to rest.
21:54 Two senior Zee journalists arrested on extortion charges
Two senior journalists of Zee news channel were arrested here today on charges of trying to extort Rs 100 crore from Congress MP Naveen Jindal's group for not doing news reports on coal scam linking his firm.
The arrests on charges of extortion came following the registration of a case about 45 days ago on a complaint filed by Jindal's company with Delhi Police's Crime Branch. Sudhir Chaudhary, the head of Zee News, and Samir Ahluwalia, head of Zee Business, have been arrested, a senior police official said.
21:29 Facebook row: Sena bandh in Palghar over suspension of cops
Shiv Sena has called for a bandh in Palghar, in the adjoining Thane district, tomorrow in protest against the suspension of police officers who had arrested two girls over a Facebook post, criticising shutdown during Bal Thackeray's funeral.
Shiv Sena MLA from Thane Eknath Shinde said the call for the bandh was given by the party's local unit. Criticising the suspension of the two police officers, he said, "The police acted as per the prevailing situation. Even the girls do not have any complaint against the police."
21:10 Mursi opponents clash with police in Cairo
Opponents of President Mohamed Mursi clashed with Egyptian police on Tuesday as thousands of protesters stepped up pressure on the Islamist to scrap a decree they say threatens the nation with a new era of autocracy.
Police fired tear gas at stone-throwing youths in streets off Cairo's Tahrir Square, centre of the uprising that toppled Hosni Mubarak last year. A 52-year-old protester died after inhaling the gas, the second fatality since Mursi announced the decree expanding his powers and preventing court challenges to his decisions last week.
20:56 Greece debt deal: fudge, but better fudge
The Greek debt deal was a fudge '" they always are '" but Monday night's version came with added ingredients. The Eurogroup and International Monetary Fund have dug deep into the larder and thrown in everything they could find.
There's a debt buyback at 35 cents in the euro; an under-the-table gift labelled a "return of profits" on the European Central Bank's holding of Greek bonds; a reduction in lending rates; and an extension to repayment terms for both interest and principal. Call it a rum and raison mix with a dash of vanilla and a hint of pecan.
20:53 China's party paper falls for Onion joke about Kim
The online version of China's Communist Party newspaper has hailed a report by The Onion naming North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un as the "Sexiest Man Alive" not realising it is satire.
The People's Daily today ran a 55-page photo spread on its website in a tribute to the round-faced leader, under the headline "North Korea's top leader named The Onion's Sexiest Man Alive for 2012." Quoting the Onion's spoof report, the Chinese newspaper wrote, "''With his devastatingly handsome, round face, his boyish charm, and his strong, sturdy frame, this Pyongyang-bred heartthrob is every woman's dream come true."
20:50 Pak to go for general election in May: Kaira
Pakistan's next general election will be held in May, Information Minister Qamar Zaman Kaira said today, offering for the first time a specific timeframe for the landmark polls. "The general election will be held in May next year.
In the presence of a vibrant media and independent judiciary, there is no chance of postponement of the elections," Kaira said during an interaction with senior journalists here. The Pakistan People's Party-led government will ensure free and fair polls under an independent interim caretaker set-up and the Election Commission, he said.
20:31 India, Israel Defence Secretary-level talks from Dec 3
India and Israel are expected to discuss the progress in their joint military projects including air defence systems and specialised radars during Defence Secretary-level talks starting on December 3 in New Delhi.
Israeli Defence Ministry's Director General Maj Gen Ehud Shani will be in India to take part in the meeting of Indo- Israel Joint Working Group on defence cooperation with Defence Secretary Shashikant Sharma, ministry officials said here.
The two countries, who have developed very close military ties in the last 10-15 years, hold this meeting annually and discuss the ongoing and future military cooperation projects.
19:46 HC notice to Google, Facebook on church's plea
The Delhi high court today sought the replies of various social networking sites, including Google and Facebook, to a plea for removal of "defamatory and derogatory" articles against a church and an NGO from their sites.
Issuing notice to M/s Google India Pvt Ltd, its subsidiaries -- You Tube, Blogger, Blogspot.in and also to Facebook -- Justice Valmiki Mehta sought their replies by January 7 next year.
The court issued the notice on a joint plea of Gospel for Asia (a city-based NGO) and Believers' Church, which alleged that "there are several malicious content with intent to defame and destroy the reputation of entire organisation (church) including its founder Metropolitan Bishop Dr K P Yohannan and Reverend Father Daniel Varghese, Diocesan Secretary of the church."
19:43 Cash transfer scheme not linked to polls: Govt
The ambitious direct cash transfers scheme, to be launched from January 1 next year, will cover 29 welfare schemes initially, the government said today while describing it as a 'game-changer', but dismissing suggestions that the roll-out hinted at mid-term polls.
A day after Prime Minister Manmohan Singh reviewed the progress of the scheme, under which beneficiaries will get cash through banks, Finance Minister P Chidambaram and Rural Development Minister Jairam Ramesh said the new flagship programme was a "path breaking reform" aimed at plugging leakages and ensure efficient delivery of benefits.
19:42 Maldives issues notice to GMR for terminating airport contract
Maldives today said its cabinet has recommended termination of a contract given to the GMR Group for developing Male Airport, a project awarded to the Indian group during the previous regime of the island nation.
The Maldives cabinet, in a meeting today, decided to terminate the contract and a notice to this effect was issued to GMR Group, Maldivian President's Press Secretary Masood Imad said in a statement.
The US$ 500-million project was hanging in the balance ever since the regime change in Maldives earlier this year.
The GMR group had won the contract during the regime of former president Mohamed Nasheed.
18:51 I went to France as a student. Now Id choose Kolkata
Kolkata's Jadavpur university gets the thumbs up from Philip Hensher, Professor of Creative Writing at the University of Exeter, and among Granta's 20 Best Young British Novelists in 2003. Here's why
18:38 Nitish turned Loktantra to 'Loot-tantra: RJD
Accusing the Nitish Kumar-led government of institutionalising corruption in Bihar, the opposition RJD today said 'Loktantra' (democracy) had become 'Loot-tantra' (machinery to loot public money) in the state. Releasing a mock 'chargesheet' against the state government, the RJD alleged that officials from top to bottom were being given a free hand to loot public money.
18:30 Pakistan plans to hold elections in May
Pakistan plans to hold landmark national elections in May, the country's information minister said Tuesday. The vote would mark the first time a civilian government completed a full five-year term in the country and transferred power through the ballot box. Previous governments have either been deposed in army coups or dismissed by presidents allied with the generals. That history has led to fervent speculation in the past few years about whether the government would make it to the finish line this time around. Read more
18:09 French Socialists want Mittal 'kicked out'
Many European countries with lagging economies are trying to draw in foreign investors. But in France, a Socialist Minister says he wants to kick the world's biggest steel maker (Arcelor Mittal) out of the country, accusing it of lying to the Government. Read
18:03 Chinese passport map causes diplomatic dispute
Experts warn that China's apparent claims to other territories could have a long-term impact on relations with its neighbours. Read
17:57 Honour killings: Govt mulls change in Constitution
The Centre today said it was seriously considering a Constitution amendment to deal with honour killings, as it sought a report from the Uttar Pradesh government on the murder of a man featured in Aamir Khan's show on the problem.
Minister of State for Home R P N Singh described as "unfortunate" the suspected honour killing of 29-year-old Abdul Hakim, who was shot dead in Bulandshahr last Thursday.
Hakim(29) and his wife Mahvish had participated in the honour killing episode of Khan's show 'Satyamev Jayate' to speak against the problem. Mahvish has alleged that her family members were behind the death of her husband.
Mahvish eloped with Hakim in October 2010 after which the couple got married and were staying in Delhi following opposition from the man's family, according to police.
Minister of State for Home R P N Singh described as "unfortunate" the suspected honour killing of 29-year-old Abdul Hakim, who was shot dead in Bulandshahr last Thursday.
Hakim(29) and his wife Mahvish had participated in the honour killing episode of Khan's show 'Satyamev Jayate' to speak against the problem. Mahvish has alleged that her family members were behind the death of her husband.
Mahvish eloped with Hakim in October 2010 after which the couple got married and were staying in Delhi following opposition from the man's family, according to police.
17:54 Acid attack victim wins Rs 25 lakh on KBC
The audience magnet was neither the legendary Amitabh Bachchan, nor former Miss Universe Lara Dutta. The star of Kaun Banega Crorepati 6 was an ordinary girl with extraordinary grit - acid attack victim Sonali Mukherjee whose prolonged struggle for justice has put the law to shame. Read more here
17:45 Abortion row: Irish PM promises solution quickly
Amid controversy over the death of an Indian dentist who was refused termination of her pregnancy despite miscarrying, the Irish Cabinet is set to discuss the report of an expert group which was appointed to examine how the State deals with the issue of lawful abortions. The report, which will be brought to the Cabinet by Minister for Health James Reilly, will be published after the meeting, The Irish Times reported today.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Enda Kenny said the Government was united on the issue. He said the matter requires careful, calm and sympathetic consideration and he would not be rushed on the issue."We're not going to leave this hanging on interminably," he said. "I'd like to deal with this as quickly
and as comprehensively, when it's practical to do so. Don't ask me for a specific date, but it's not going to be left hanging around."
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Enda Kenny said the Government was united on the issue. He said the matter requires careful, calm and sympathetic consideration and he would not be rushed on the issue."We're not going to leave this hanging on interminably," he said. "I'd like to deal with this as quickly
and as comprehensively, when it's practical to do so. Don't ask me for a specific date, but it's not going to be left hanging around."
17:34 Cinemax in talks to sell stake to PVR
Multiplex chain operator Cinemax today said its promoters are in exclusive discussions with PVR for selling stake in the company.
"Cinemax India has been informed by its promoters that they are engaged in exclusive discussions with PVR for a potential sale of their shares in the company. However, no definitive agreements have been entered into in this respect," Cinemax said in a BSE filing.
In a similar filing, PVR also confirmed that it is in "active discussions with the promoters of Cinemax India" for a potential purchase of the company's shares.
"Cinemax India has been informed by its promoters that they are engaged in exclusive discussions with PVR for a potential sale of their shares in the company. However, no definitive agreements have been entered into in this respect," Cinemax said in a BSE filing.
In a similar filing, PVR also confirmed that it is in "active discussions with the promoters of Cinemax India" for a potential purchase of the company's shares.
17:32 Kargil heros father moves SC for justice
Continuing his 13-year-old bitter battle, retired scientist Dr N K Kalia, father of Kargil martyr Captain Saurabh Kalia, who was made captive and subjected to brutal torture by Pakistan army in 1999, has now knocked the door of apex court seeking directions to Union government to take up his son's case at the international judicial forum. Read
Also read: Kargil's first hero.
Also read: Kargil's first hero.
17:26
BJP's Yashwant Sinha and Ananth Kumar were huddled in a corner of the Lok Sabha library discussing what presumably is seriously internal politics of the party (and there's plenty of that to talk about).
17:21 Owaisi sniffs post-withdrawal impact on UPA
In Parliament today, MIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi was busy in the Central Hall meeting a number of Congress leaders to assess the impact of his withdrawal of support to the UPA as well as Kiran Kumar Reddy government in Andhra Pradesh. Owaisi has been saying that Jagan Reddy's YSR Congress will sweep the polls in the state whenever elections are held for the Lok Sabha and for State Assembly.
17:18 Govt employees look forward to December
A once-in-a-lifetime December. There will be five Saturdays, five Sundays and five Mondays next month, something that happens just once in 824 years.
But that's not what this is about. For Central Government employees, it means holidays for one-third of the month (11 days since besides Saturdays and Sundays, there's Christmas on December 25, a Tuesday).
But that's not what this is about. For Central Government employees, it means holidays for one-third of the month (11 days since besides Saturdays and Sundays, there's Christmas on December 25, a Tuesday).
17:12 The Stories You Missed in 2012
Ten events and trends that were overlooked this year, but may be leading the headlines in 2013. Read
17:03 India, China have new territorial beef
India and China are engaged in a fresh territorial row after Beijing recently started issuing passports showing two disputed regions as its own.The face-off began a few weeks back, after India discovered Beijing issuing new biometric passports depicting two areas along the countries' 4,000-kilometer disputed Himalayan border as part of China. Read
16:57 Court rejects Zakia Jaffri's protest petition
A Gujarat court rejects Zakia Jaffri's protest petition over the closure of the SC-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) report which gave a clean chit to Gujarat CM Narendra Modi in the 2002 riot cases. Zakia, is the widow of former Congress MP Ehsan Zafri, who was was killed by a mob in Gulbarg Society during 2002 riots.
The SIT had opposed Zakias plea on the ground that even though she had filed a petition, the apex court has not yet given any stay order on proceedings. The probe agency argued that Zakia should be directed to file her protest petition as soon as possible and not be granted additional time.
The SIT had opposed Zakias plea on the ground that even though she had filed a petition, the apex court has not yet given any stay order on proceedings. The probe agency argued that Zakia should be directed to file her protest petition as soon as possible and not be granted additional time.
16:52 Thackeray's ashes on the road to Kanyakumari
Rediff.com's Ganesh Nadar reports that there is a huge traffic jam on Thiruvananthapuram-Kanyakumari Road. Shiv Sena supremo Bal Thackeray's ashes are being taken by road to Kanyakumari. More than a 100 vehicles bearing the Sena flag are part of the rally. The ashes of Shiv Sena patriarch arrived in Thiruvananthapuram today and is being taken in a procession for immersion at Kanyakumari. Thackeray died in Mumbai on November 17 and was cremated a day later.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Kerala unit of the Shiv Sena said Thackeray's ashes would be taken over from party legislator Dipak Sawant by state leader MS Bhuvendran at the airport around 9 am.
From there the ashes would be placed in a special vehicle which would stop for a while in the capital city for allowing people to pay their respects, the statement said.
The ashes would be handed over to Tamil Nadu unit chief on the border before being taken to Kanyakumari for immersion, it said.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Kerala unit of the Shiv Sena said Thackeray's ashes would be taken over from party legislator Dipak Sawant by state leader MS Bhuvendran at the airport around 9 am.
From there the ashes would be placed in a special vehicle which would stop for a while in the capital city for allowing people to pay their respects, the statement said.
The ashes would be handed over to Tamil Nadu unit chief on the border before being taken to Kanyakumari for immersion, it said.
16:36 N Korea's Kim Jong is Sexiest man alive for 2012
Kim Jong Un, the baby-faced dictator of North Korea, has been named the Onion's "Sexiest Man Alive." Read
If your jaw has dropped, remember that's the Onion's poll. And it's all tongue in cheek.
If your jaw has dropped, remember that's the Onion's poll. And it's all tongue in cheek.
15:58 Arunachal CM on China map: State indisputably in India
Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Nabam Tuki has dismissed the controversial maps printed on newly issued Chinese passports, saying that his state is indisputably a part of India.
Tuki was in New Delhi to visit his state's pavilion at the 32nd India International Trade Fair. "Arunachal Pradesh is ours. Our government has been holding the state for a long period of time. There is no reason for disputing the state," he said.
Tuki also said that he hoped that the Indian Government would communicate its stand to China, while maintaining cordial bilateral relations.
Tuki was in New Delhi to visit his state's pavilion at the 32nd India International Trade Fair. "Arunachal Pradesh is ours. Our government has been holding the state for a long period of time. There is no reason for disputing the state," he said.
Tuki also said that he hoped that the Indian Government would communicate its stand to China, while maintaining cordial bilateral relations.
15:55
Author Pico Iyer's piece for the New York Times. Read
15:49 Paris Hilton: Excited to go to Goa, Ibiza of India
Hotel heiress Paris Hilton tweets: Packing for my trip to India. So excited to go to Goa for my first time, heard it's the Ibiza of India. Can't wait to have the best time!
15:40 In a first, UN reverberates with Sufi music
The UN reverberated with the soulful sound of Sufi music as India, the current President of Security Council, hosted a musical event that focussed on the message of tolerance, pluralism and peace.
The theme of the concert, which coincided with the fourth anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, was 'Love towards All, Malice Towards None .' Organised by the Indian mission yesterday on the occasion of India's Presidency of the Council, the musical event brought together three genres of music including the renowned Shahi Qawwals from Ajmer and the UN Symphony Orchestra.
The theme of the concert, which coincided with the fourth anniversary of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, was 'Love towards All, Malice Towards None .' Organised by the Indian mission yesterday on the occasion of India's Presidency of the Council, the musical event brought together three genres of music including the renowned Shahi Qawwals from Ajmer and the UN Symphony Orchestra.
15:30 Horror comedy film being made on Bigg Boss
Popular reality show Bigg Boss is all set to get a big screen treatment as a horror comedy film based on the TV programme is in the making. Endemol India, in association with Select Media Holdings Pvt Ltd's film production wing, Moving Pictures, is all set to jointly produce the film which will be based on the experiences of the people in the Bigg Boss house.
Slated to go on floors in early 2013, the film is currently in the writing stage. With the cast being finalised, audiences will get to see an ensemble of stars from the small screen as well as Bollywood.
Slated to go on floors in early 2013, the film is currently in the writing stage. With the cast being finalised, audiences will get to see an ensemble of stars from the small screen as well as Bollywood.
15:29 Former OED editor covertly deleted thousand of words, book claims
Efforts to rewrite the Oxford English dictionary in the 70s and 80s have resulted in the omission of entries with foreign origins described as 'really shocking'. Read
15:24 What Rachida Dati's paternity case says about sexism in France
Rachida Dati, a former French justice minister's court case is just the latest in a series of stories about sex scandals and affairs that have dominated the press in a country where female polticians have a terrible public image. Read
15:17 Transplant pioneer and Nobel prizewinner, dies
Dr Joseph E Murray, who performed the world's first successful kidney transplant and won a Nobel prize for his pioneering work, has died at 93. Read
15:10 Ancient microbes found in salty, ice-sealed Antarctic lake
Scientists have discovered abundant and diverse metabolically active bacteria in the brine of an Antarctic lake sealed under more than 65 feet of ice, shedding light on the limits of life in extreme environments.
The finding is surprising because previous studies indicate that the brine has been isolated from the surface environment -- and external sources of energy -- for at least 2,800 years, according to the report's authors.
The finding is surprising because previous studies indicate that the brine has been isolated from the surface environment -- and external sources of energy -- for at least 2,800 years, according to the report's authors.
15:03 Tibetan students protest, as four more self-immolations reported
A crowd of Tibetan students has protested in Qinghai province, activists say, as four more self-immolations were reported.Reports said more than 1,000 students took part in the protest, which was reportedly provoked by the contents of a book. Read
14:57 CAG audit of RIL KG D6 hits another roadblock
The Comptroller and Auditor General audit of KG-DWN-98/3, popularly known as KG D6, has once again hit a roadblock. Read
Also see: All about the Reliance-KG Basin controversy
Take a bow, Jaipal Reddy!
Did this letter to Reliance get Jaipal Reddy shunted out?
Also see: All about the Reliance-KG Basin controversy
Take a bow, Jaipal Reddy!
Did this letter to Reliance get Jaipal Reddy shunted out?
14:46 Proposed Workplace Bill is anti-men, points out NGO
The proposed 'Protection of Women against Sexual Harassment at Workplace Bill', introduced in the Lok Sabha has been termed as an "anti-men" legislation by a NGO in Nagpur. The proposed inquiry proceedings in the 2010 Bill are designed to deny justice to men.
The proposed Internal Complaints Committee, as provided in Section 4 of the proposed Act, shall be headed by woman, according to All India Men's Welfare Association (AIMWA).
Its members shall consist of at least two women employees "committed to the cause of women'. The term has not been explained in the proposed Act, but in common parlance, it means "a feminist woman".
Thus the basic constitution of the internal complaints committee has been designed to be anti-men.
The proposed Internal Complaints Committee, as provided in Section 4 of the proposed Act, shall be headed by woman, according to All India Men's Welfare Association (AIMWA).
Its members shall consist of at least two women employees "committed to the cause of women'. The term has not been explained in the proposed Act, but in common parlance, it means "a feminist woman".
Thus the basic constitution of the internal complaints committee has been designed to be anti-men.
14:44 Huge relief for UPA as DMK decides to back it on FDI
DMK Chief M Karunanidhi in a three-page statement on the FDI issue said today, "One should not forget the situation of the UPA government falling if a discussion and voting takes place under rule 184 in Parliament accepting the demand of BJP and some other parties.
DMK's decision comes two days after Congress emissary Ghulam Nabi Azad met M Karunanidhi, in order to take the second largest UPA constituent with 18 members on board to counter opposition demand for a discussion under rules that entail voting.
"Though there may be thousands of differences still persisting on the issue and considering the consequences if the government falls at the Centre, in bitterness, the DMK has decided to support the UPA government on the issue," Karunanidhi said.
The DMK chief said no room should be given to communal parties like BJP coming to power if there was a danger to the UPA government.
DMK's decision comes two days after Congress emissary Ghulam Nabi Azad met M Karunanidhi, in order to take the second largest UPA constituent with 18 members on board to counter opposition demand for a discussion under rules that entail voting.
"Though there may be thousands of differences still persisting on the issue and considering the consequences if the government falls at the Centre, in bitterness, the DMK has decided to support the UPA government on the issue," Karunanidhi said.
The DMK chief said no room should be given to communal parties like BJP coming to power if there was a danger to the UPA government.
14:40 Gadkari on suicidal path, will drag BJP down: Jethmalani
Terming his suspension from the BJP as "ultravires, Ram Jethmalani today mounted a fresh attack on the party leadership accusing Nitin Gadkari of treading on the path of suicide and dragging the party with him.
In a strongly worded letter to Gadkari, Jethmalani also alluded to the alleged role played by Arun Jaitley in the CBI director appointment row.
"Your order of suspension is ultravires and usurpation of the power of the Parliamentary Board. Besides no situation had arisen in which you should have proceeded without speaking to me and complying with ordinary decencies of a quasi-judicial office which you hold," the suspended party MP said.
Making a scathing comment, Jethmalani said in his letter, "I am convinced that you are firmly set on the path of suicide and you are determined to drag the whole party with you. 'Vinash kal Vipreet Buddhi (when one is set to be doomed he loses his mind)' is an old maxim." He also said he suspects Gadkari is prejudiced against him and hence took this action of suspending him.
In a strongly worded letter to Gadkari, Jethmalani also alluded to the alleged role played by Arun Jaitley in the CBI director appointment row.
"Your order of suspension is ultravires and usurpation of the power of the Parliamentary Board. Besides no situation had arisen in which you should have proceeded without speaking to me and complying with ordinary decencies of a quasi-judicial office which you hold," the suspended party MP said.
Making a scathing comment, Jethmalani said in his letter, "I am convinced that you are firmly set on the path of suicide and you are determined to drag the whole party with you. 'Vinash kal Vipreet Buddhi (when one is set to be doomed he loses his mind)' is an old maxim." He also said he suspects Gadkari is prejudiced against him and hence took this action of suspending him.
14:35 Coffee table Gujarat
Gujarat made news for riots a decade ago. Even by Indian standards, they were spectacular. Shooting and framing of innocent Muslims, killing of pregnant women, creation of hell on earth for people of just one religion -- such are the crimes for which a handful of men, women, politicians and ministers were sentenced, but the rest of the criminals were left free to enjoy the proud accomplishment of jihad. Read
14:25
Kamal Nath adds that the government is not averse to discussion under any rule.
14:19 UPA reaches consensus on FDI, Speaker to decide
The UPA's Coordination Committee meet with allies on FDI on retail ends on a positive note. Parliamentary Affairs minister Kamal Nath says the UPA is firmly behind FDI on retail and the Speaker will take a call on voting.
Kamal Nath said there has been no insistence on voting and all parties were united in wanting a discussion, not vote. "The consensus has been conveyed to the Speaker who will take a call," said Kamal Nath.
NCP leader Praful Patel say there is a consensus on not voting and that the UPA was united. "The government will decide on the next course of action," said Patel.
Kamal Nath said there has been no insistence on voting and all parties were united in wanting a discussion, not vote. "The consensus has been conveyed to the Speaker who will take a call," said Kamal Nath.
NCP leader Praful Patel say there is a consensus on not voting and that the UPA was united. "The government will decide on the next course of action," said Patel.
14:09 Regulatory body slams 'taller, better, healthier' claims
In other news: India's food regulatory agency has indicted several household brands, including Britannia biscuits, Horlicks health drinks and Kellogg's breakfast cereals, for what it says are misleading claims about some of their food products. Read
14:07 Kandhamal communal riots: 12 get jail for arson
Just in: Twelve people have been convicted for arson in the 2008 Kandhamal riots case and have been sentenced to six years in jail. Last month, 13 people were sentenced to six years rigorous imprisonment
by a fast track court for their involvement in the riots. Thirty-eight people died in the communal riots in Orissa.
13:50 China defense chief says military buildup no threat to the world
China's military buildup poses no threat to the world, Defense Minister Liang Guanglie said on Tuesday, in an effort to allay fears among Asian neighbors amid long-running maritime disputes. Read more here
13:48 Alok Joshi appointed next RAW head
Senior IPS officer Alok Joshi has been appointed as Secretary, Research and Analysis Wing. Joshi, a 1976 batch officer of Haryana Cadre, is presently Special Secretary in RAW under the Cabinet Secretariat.
The Appointments Committee of Cabinet has approved Joshi's appointment for a period of two years or until further orders, whichever is earlier, in place of present incumbent S K Tripathi, on completion of his tenure on December 29, 2012, a press release said.
Joshi has served in Intelligence Bureau and Haryana Police with key operations in Nepal and Pakistan to his credit.
The Appointments Committee of Cabinet has approved Joshi's appointment for a period of two years or until further orders, whichever is earlier, in place of present incumbent S K Tripathi, on completion of his tenure on December 29, 2012, a press release said.
Joshi has served in Intelligence Bureau and Haryana Police with key operations in Nepal and Pakistan to his credit.
13:47 Sanghs Nitin fixation
Despite the growing clamour for Nitin Gadkari's head, Mohanrao Bhagwat, the RSS sarsanghachalak, is still inclined to give Gadkari a second innings as BJP president, reports the Telegraph, India. There is a growing clamour in the BJP that even if Gadkari's tenure is extended by three years, Narendra Modi should be frontlined as the "people's choice', an honorific that would bolster his claim for projection as prime-ministerial choice in 2014. Read more here.
13:43 Honour killing: Centre seeks report from UP
Terming as "unfortunate" the suspected honour killing of a youth in Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr district, the Centre today sought a report from the state government on the issue.
Minister of State for Home RPN Singh also said that the Government is "very seriously trying" to amend the Constitution to deal with the incidents of honour killings in the country.
"We have already asked the state government to send us details of the killing that has taken place. This is something that the Government has taken seriously. What has happened in UP is unfortunate. We are still waiting details from the UP government," he said outside Parliament House today.
The wife of 29-year-old Abdul Hakim, who was shot dead on Thursday last, yesterday alleged that her family members were behind the death of her husband.
According to the Hakim's wife Mahvish, the victim was shot dead by her family members on November 22 after he had just entered the village along with her and their two-year-old daughter. However, the police have claimed that it was not a case of honour killing as none of the accused named in the FIR by the deceased's brother was from Mahvish's side.
Minister of State for Home RPN Singh also said that the Government is "very seriously trying" to amend the Constitution to deal with the incidents of honour killings in the country.
"We have already asked the state government to send us details of the killing that has taken place. This is something that the Government has taken seriously. What has happened in UP is unfortunate. We are still waiting details from the UP government," he said outside Parliament House today.
The wife of 29-year-old Abdul Hakim, who was shot dead on Thursday last, yesterday alleged that her family members were behind the death of her husband.
According to the Hakim's wife Mahvish, the victim was shot dead by her family members on November 22 after he had just entered the village along with her and their two-year-old daughter. However, the police have claimed that it was not a case of honour killing as none of the accused named in the FIR by the deceased's brother was from Mahvish's side.
13:17 Anna's IAC needs money, Kejriwal's AAP flush with funds
Key Anna Hazare aide Kiran Bedi (who has had differences with Arvind Kejriwal) tweets: "Anna's IAC Delhi office has a budget requirement. We have raised some. To sustain u can support. Pl tweet me for connecting u with d Bank!"
In contrast, Arvind Kejriwal who officially entered the political arena on Monday. draw hefty funds for the newly launched Aam Aadmi Party, collecting more than Rs 1.10 crore on the day of the launch. Former law minister Shanti Bhushan alone donated Rs 1 crore.
In contrast, Arvind Kejriwal who officially entered the political arena on Monday. draw hefty funds for the newly launched Aam Aadmi Party, collecting more than Rs 1.10 crore on the day of the launch. Former law minister Shanti Bhushan alone donated Rs 1 crore.
13:07 Pak Taliban: We will attack Hamid Mir again
Tehrik-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) has claimed credit for the attack on senior Pakistani TV anchor Hamid Mir saying that despite repeated warning he did not stop speaking against the Taliban.
In a message to rediff.com's Tahir Ali, TTP spokesperson Ihsanullah Ihsan said, "We (Taliban) had fixed the bomb under his car; but he survived. He is on our hit list; if he has escaped today, we will attack him again. Mir is working on a secular agenda."
Hamid Mir escaped an assassination attempt when police defused a bomb planted beneath his car on Monday morning. The material included a battery, a detonator and ball bearings.
In a message to rediff.com's Tahir Ali, TTP spokesperson Ihsanullah Ihsan said, "We (Taliban) had fixed the bomb under his car; but he survived. He is on our hit list; if he has escaped today, we will attack him again. Mir is working on a secular agenda."
Hamid Mir escaped an assassination attempt when police defused a bomb planted beneath his car on Monday morning. The material included a battery, a detonator and ball bearings.
13:01 Pakistans media-muzzling judiciary
Pakistan's judicial system has won plaudits for taking on military dictatorships. But it's increasingly receiving flack for overstepping its powers. Read more here.
13:00 DMK's notice on 2G may boomerang on them
In fact, the DMK has been put in a tight spot on the 2G scam. After the party gave a notice in the Lok Sabha to discuss former CAG official RP Singh revelations on the loss figure, the party has just realised that the issue would probably boomerang on them. The DMK, apparently, was greatly enthused after Sonia Gandhi attacked the BJP. DMK leaders were in the dark about Singh backtracking on his comments on Dr Murli Manohar Joshi during his interview to CNN IBN's Karan Thapar. Insiders in the DMK blame it on a junior union minister who was promoted to join issues with RP Singh.
12:52 'Bitter' Karuna will support UPA on FDI in Parliament
DMK supremo M Karunanidhi says the party will support the UPA government on FDI issue in Parliament, but it took the decision with "bitterness" to prevent communal forces from coming to power.
12:50 India team for England: Umesh out, Dinda in
India team for England is being announced. First up: Injured Umesh Yadav is out of the team, Ashok Dinda is in. Dinda will replace Umesh for the Test matches to be held beginning December 5 in Kolkata.
12:46
Saugata Roy of the All India Trinamool Congress made a resignation statement in the Lok Sabha. He is resigning over the FDI issue. Details awaited.
12:08 The scandals of free India
Political corruption was there even during the time of Pandit Nehru. But later a rapid erosion in the selfless dedication of leaders led to the growth of corruption in the entire body politic. National interest became nobody's business. Welfare schemes turned the biggest source for siphoning off public funds. Read
12:06 Striking at the root of corruption
Cleansing political parties and elections of illegal money is the first step towards tackling the evil of graft. Read
12:05 The plot thickens
Not for nothing has Ram Jethmalani earned the sobriquet Battering Ram. The veteran lawyer and Bharatiya Janata Party member loves a good fight, a behavioural trait that has caused him often to clash with his party leadership. So at one level his suspension from the BJP '" followed by a show-cause notice '" is just a replay of history. Read
11:59 Huawei, ZTE ready to share source codes with India
In other news, embattled Chinese vendors Huawei and ZTE are willing to offer the Indian government unrestricted access to the software source codes of all their products as they attempt to ease concerns about a security threat. Read
11:58 Don't think Jethmalani deserves comment: Jaitley
BJP senior leader Arun Jaitley reacts to Ram Jethmalani's statement that he was indifferent to any action taken by the party.
After the Parliament was disrupted today, Jaitley answering reporters who asked him to comment on the Supreme Court lawyer's statement said, "I don't think Jethmalani deserves comment."
Jethmalani had also said that Jaitley had a role in the appointment of the CBI chief and lashed out against both Swaraj and Jaitley saying they had not consulted him on the Lokpal Bill. He also said that Gadkari was determined to bring down the BJP with him.
After the Parliament was disrupted today, Jaitley answering reporters who asked him to comment on the Supreme Court lawyer's statement said, "I don't think Jethmalani deserves comment."
Jethmalani had also said that Jaitley had a role in the appointment of the CBI chief and lashed out against both Swaraj and Jaitley saying they had not consulted him on the Lokpal Bill. He also said that Gadkari was determined to bring down the BJP with him.
11:47 FDI in retail: BJP asks govt to give up its adamant attitude
BJP today said it will insist on discussion on FDI in retail issue under rules which entail voting and asked the government to give up its "adamant" attitude and "allow the House to function" by agreeing to the Opposition demand.
The BJP Parliamentary Party met today for its weekly meeting to discuss its strategy in both Houses.
"Government has not kept its assurance to Parliament that the decision on FDI will be taken only after discussing the issue with all stakeholders. The sense of the House on the issue can be known only through voting. So, the government should give up its adamant attitude," BJP spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain said.
He maintained that the government is responsible for Parliament not functioning as it is not agreeing to voting and discussion on the FDI issue. "Government should not show arrogance of power and agree to the opposition demand. BJP and NDA are not ready for anything less than voting and discussion. We want a debate only under Rule 184," Hussain said.
The BJP Parliamentary Party met today for its weekly meeting to discuss its strategy in both Houses.
"Government has not kept its assurance to Parliament that the decision on FDI will be taken only after discussing the issue with all stakeholders. The sense of the House on the issue can be known only through voting. So, the government should give up its adamant attitude," BJP spokesperson Shahnawaz Hussain said.
He maintained that the government is responsible for Parliament not functioning as it is not agreeing to voting and discussion on the FDI issue. "Government should not show arrogance of power and agree to the opposition demand. BJP and NDA are not ready for anything less than voting and discussion. We want a debate only under Rule 184," Hussain said.
11:42 Why CAG Vinod Rai's replacement will be a relief for govt
Then there's news that Ajit Seth is being considered for the position of
Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) when Vinod Rai completes
his term on May 25, 2013. Seth is now cabinet secretary - a non controversial babu -- and has also been Resident Commissioner for Uttar Pradesh Bhavan
in New Delhi for seven years during which he has not handled a crisis nor held any key department.
He has also briefly served as Secretary to Government of India. Two Union Minsters said that in the event the UPA returned to power, the forecast in the next three years is that Seth and his reports will not stall Parliament. Ajit Seth will certainly not be Vinod Rai say these two ministers.
Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) when Vinod Rai completes
his term on May 25, 2013. Seth is now cabinet secretary - a non controversial babu -- and has also been Resident Commissioner for Uttar Pradesh Bhavan
in New Delhi for seven years during which he has not handled a crisis nor held any key department.
He has also briefly served as Secretary to Government of India. Two Union Minsters said that in the event the UPA returned to power, the forecast in the next three years is that Seth and his reports will not stall Parliament. Ajit Seth will certainly not be Vinod Rai say these two ministers.
11:34 Why it's obvious TMC has groupism
The fact that there is groupism in the Trinamool Congress is evident in Parliament especially in the Central Hall. TMC MPs can be seen putting their heads together in the Central Hall discussing the political developments and awaiting calls from West Bengal Chief Minister and party supremo Mamata Banerjee.
Interestingly, Sudhip Bandopadhyay, the spokesperson of the party, is the only one who can walk up to these groups and discuss the status of whatever Mamata said or the inititatives outlined by her lately. Two or three senior TMC leaders speak openly that TMC MPs have become "pet animals of the leadership."
Interestingly, Sudhip Bandopadhyay, the spokesperson of the party, is the only one who can walk up to these groups and discuss the status of whatever Mamata said or the inititatives outlined by her lately. Two or three senior TMC leaders speak openly that TMC MPs have become "pet animals of the leadership."
11:22 Arafat's body exhumed to test death by poisoning
The body of the late Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat was exhumed on Tuesday by a team of international experts trying to discover if he was poisoned, as many Palestinians believe.
French magistrates opened a murder inquiry in August into Arafat's death in Paris after a Swiss institute said it had discovered high levels of radioactive polonium on his clothing, which was supplied by his widow, Suha.
French magistrates opened a murder inquiry in August into Arafat's death in Paris after a Swiss institute said it had discovered high levels of radioactive polonium on his clothing, which was supplied by his widow, Suha.
11:18 President overwhelmed with fruits and flowers from TN
Our Delhi sources tell us that President Pranab Mukherjee was overwhelmed yesterday to see a huge garland and basket full of fruits when he received Finance Minister of Tamil Nadu O Pannerselvam with top officials. The TN finance minister had come to meet the President to invite him to the state's celebrations on November 30.
11:14
BJP spokesman Shahnawaz Hussain has said that if the Parliament does not function, the responsibility lies with the government.
11:10
The Trinamool Congress is carrying out a protest outside Parliament House at the entrance gate over the FDI on retail and LPG subsidy.
The Lok Sabha has been adjourned till noon, yet again over FDI on retail.
The Lok Sabha has been adjourned till noon, yet again over FDI on retail.
11:07 RS adjourned till noon, LS threatens to adjourn
Much like a certain brand of noodles, it took just two minutes for Rajya Sabha to be adjourned till noon.
In the Lok Sabha, Speaker Meira Kumar looks on with seemingly endless patience as members create a ruckus over FDI on retail. "Baith jaiye, baith jaiye apni seat pe," she beseeches.
The approximate amount wasted for each day Parliament does not function is Rs 1.7 crore.
In the Lok Sabha, Speaker Meira Kumar looks on with seemingly endless patience as members create a ruckus over FDI on retail. "Baith jaiye, baith jaiye apni seat pe," she beseeches.
The approximate amount wasted for each day Parliament does not function is Rs 1.7 crore.
11:03 Aamir Khan speaks up for murdered khap critic
Superstar Aamir Khan visited Meerut on Monday to appeal to the police to ensure the security of the widow and daughter of murdered labourer Abdul Hakim, 29, who spoke about the terror unleashed on lovers by khap panchayats in western UP on his show Satyamev Jayate earlier this year. Read
10:54 Why not levy 25% green tax on diesel cars, SC asks
Another big story yesterday was that the Supreme Court had sought the Centre's response to a radical plea for collection of 25% of the cost of a diesel car or SUV sold in the National Capital Region as green tax at the time of its purchase to deter people from buying more polluting personal vehicles and help fight the growing levels of pollution in Delhi. Read more
10:48 Day 1: Rs 1.10 cr donation for Kejriwal's Aam Admi Party
After over a year of campaigning, dozens of protests and exposes against ministers,Arvind Kejriwal officially entered the political arena on Monday. Negating the perception that only big parties can draw hefty funds, the newly launched Aam Aadmi Party collected more than 1.10 crore on the day of the launch, with former law minister Shanti Bhushan alone donating Rs 1 crore. Read
10:45 Facebook case: SP suspended, magistrate shunted out
Nearly a week after two Palghar girls were unnecessarily summoned to the police station and arrested for an innocuous Facebook post, the government is suspending the superintendent of police (Thane rural) Ravindra Sengaonkar. In a separate development, the Bombay high court on Monday transferred Ramchandra Bagade, the first-class judicial magistrate at Palghar who had given the girls bail of Rs 15,000 each. Read more here.
10:29 Jethmalani: Jaitley did not consult me on Lokpal
Suspended BJP MP Ram Jethmalani has lashed out against senior party leaders Sushma Swaraj and Arun Jaitley in a letter to the BJP Parliamentary Board saying he is totally indifferent to the action taken against him. Jethmalani was served a show cause notice asking why action should not be taken against him for his anti-party comments on Nitin Gadkari and the appointment of CBI chief Ranjit Sinha.
Jethmalani said Jaitley had a role in the appointment of the CBI chief and lashed out against both Swaraj and Jaitley saying they had not consulted him on the Lokpal Bill. He also said that Gadkari was determined to bring down the BJP with him.
Jethmalani said Jaitley had a role in the appointment of the CBI chief and lashed out against both Swaraj and Jaitley saying they had not consulted him on the Lokpal Bill. He also said that Gadkari was determined to bring down the BJP with him.
10:16 Suspend Question Hour in Rajya Sabha: BJP
The Bharatiya Janata Party today gave a notice for suspension of question hour in the Rajya Sabha.
10:01 Adarsh scam accused Kanhaiyalal Gidwani dies
Former Congress MLC and Adarsh scam accused Kanhaiyalal Gidwani died of a heart attack at a Mumbai hospital.
Gidwani, one of the chief promoters of the controversial Adarsh Society in south Mumbai, was arrested by the CBI along with others after it came to light that there were several irregularities in permissions obtained by the Society.
He was out on bail.Gidwani suffered a heart attack on Friday and was rushed to the Breach Candy Hospital.
Gidwani, one of the chief promoters of the controversial Adarsh Society in south Mumbai, was arrested by the CBI along with others after it came to light that there were several irregularities in permissions obtained by the Society.
He was out on bail.Gidwani suffered a heart attack on Friday and was rushed to the Breach Candy Hospital.
09:36 FDI logjam: UPA allies to meet today
United Progressive Alliance allies will meet this morning to discuss how the logjam in Parliament over the Foreign Direct Investment in multi-brand retail issue can be broken, reports NDTV.
The government has said that giving in to the Opposition demand for a vote in Parliament on an executive decision will set a bad precedent.
Read full report here
The government has said that giving in to the Opposition demand for a vote in Parliament on an executive decision will set a bad precedent.
Read full report here
09:06 6 infant deaths in 24 hours in Malda hospital, WB
Six more infant deaths have been reported from the Medical College Hospital in Malda in West Bengal in the past 24 hours. This takes the toll to 19 deaths since Saturday, according to a report on CNN-IBN.
Hospital authorities maintain that the infants were brought in a critical condition from the adjoining North and South Dinajpur districts and all of them were suffering from malnutrition. Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare AH Khan Choudhury has intervened and is monitoring the situation.
The CMO visited the hospital to take stock of the situation. The same hospital had reported 27 infant deaths earlier in 2012.
Hospital authorities maintain that the infants were brought in a critical condition from the adjoining North and South Dinajpur districts and all of them were suffering from malnutrition. Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare AH Khan Choudhury has intervened and is monitoring the situation.
The CMO visited the hospital to take stock of the situation. The same hospital had reported 27 infant deaths earlier in 2012.
08:49 Minor's father, brother rape her for 2 yrs, held
The father, brother and an uncle of a 13 year-old girl from nearby Dharmadom in north Kerala's Kannur district have been arrested for allegedly raping the minor for the past two years.
The shocking incident came to light two days ago when the 8th standard student of a local school was seen crying and refused to go home even after school hours. When one of her teachers inquired, the petrified girl narrated her plight.
The school authorities immediately informed the police and a complaint was registered.
The girl's father, her 15-year-old brother and an uncle have been arrested, Thalassery Circle Inspector, M V Vinod Kumar, who is probing the case said.
The shocking incident came to light two days ago when the 8th standard student of a local school was seen crying and refused to go home even after school hours. When one of her teachers inquired, the petrified girl narrated her plight.
The school authorities immediately informed the police and a complaint was registered.
The girl's father, her 15-year-old brother and an uncle have been arrested, Thalassery Circle Inspector, M V Vinod Kumar, who is probing the case said.
01:47 Palestinian UN bid a mistake, says US
The US has termed as a 'mistake' the Palestinian bid to become a non-member observer state at the UN -- a move supported by countries like India, Brazil and South Africa -- warning it would derail the Middle East peace process and vowing to oppose it.
"We have obviously been very clear that we do not think this step is going to bring the Palestinian people any closer to a state; that we think it is a mistake; that we oppose it; that we will oppose it," state department spokesperson, Victoria Nuland, told reporters at her daily news conference.
01:22 Google acquisition release was hoax
AFP reports: A bogus news release prompted several websites to run incorrect articles about Google making a $400 million acquisition of a wireless company today, the target company said. "This was a hoax. We are investigating the source," said an emailed statement from George Strouthopoulos, chairman and chief executive of ICOA, the wireless firm Google purportedly was acquiring.
The reports began after the fake release was posted on the PRWeb site which is owned by the cloud software firm Vocus.
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