16 Feb 2010 JAIPUR: Online sale of tickets for the February 21 India- South Africa ODI, may see some changes over the next couple of days. Reacting to protests by some student unions against it being the only medium to purchase tickets, the organizing committee may open a couple of ticket counters.
Vivek Vyas, member, ticketing committee, refused comment on rumours. Speaking to TOI he said, “As of now I can say there is no such development. For the time being we are going ahead with online booking only.”
When probed further on the protests at a few places and some students union leaders meeting RCA officials to press their demand, he said, “The sale of tickets indicate the system is well accepted. However, the issue will be placed in the organizing committee meeting to be chaired by our president. He will take the final call on the issue.” The meeting is said to take place on Wednesday where the progress so far will be reviewed.
As fans continue to click on the RCA site to book their tickets, ground preparations are almost over. The curators have made the practice pitches ready and all training equipment have been put in place. “We are ready to conduct the practice sessions for the teams,” said pitch curator Tapos Chatterjee. The final touches are being given to the main stadium and in a couple of days the ground will be match fit, he added.
“We have stopped watering the main track and will do so again in case the weather becomes hot and cracks appear. Also the outfield has been cut and whatever patches are there we are filling them. It will not take long from our end,” he added.
Meanwhile, security at the stadium has been beefed up and private security guards along with cops have taken the charge of the ground and every movement inside is being marked. The construction of support on the outside walls of the west stand, providing struts inside and barricading for stands is nearing completion and in a couple of days the boxes will be ready for the run feast.
Monday, March 1, 2010
Air travel from Sanganer posts 13% growth in ’09
16 Feb 2010 JAIPUR: The demand for air travel (domestic and international) has registered a growth of 13% in 2009, compared to an annual national growth of 8%. December has broken all the previous records and registered an all-time high of 1.43 lakh passengers amid swine flu scare.
The last six months (July-December) were very promising for Sanganer Airport which witnessed an average growth of 43%, compared to the corresponding period last year. According to AAI, Jaipur, total passengers flown in and out of Sanganer Airport were 14.19 lakh in 2009, compared with 12.53 lakh in 2008.
“Since operations started at new terminal building (July 2009), the passenger traffic witnessed a phenomenal rise. The travellers from both long and short haul (750 km and below 750 km distance from the city) had increased significantly,” said Anuj Agarwal.
Experts say that the gradual recovery from economic meltdown along with special offers by the airlines is responsible for the shining of aviation sector. Enthused by the rising numbers, the airport authority, Jaipur, has confirmed to have received proposals from some domestic and international airlines ahead of a Commonwealth Games. “Akash Ganga, a domestic airline, besides Best Air (Bangladesh) and Spice Jet are likely to start their international operations from this year,” added Agarwal.
The highest growth rate of 70% was recorded in September and that too in the middle of swine flu scare world over. This was followed by August which recorded a growth of 66%. The overseas passengers showed a phenomenal rise in October, November and December. In December alone, 19,500 foreigners travelled in and out of the Sanganer Airport.
“The sudden rise in foreign air travellers in last three months of previous year can be attributed to the tourist season, besides the surge in national and international corporate events that invites delegates from abroad,” said Tiahra Chishty, manager of an event management company.
Going by the figures, March was the worst-hit, as air passenger traffic registered a 24.7% decline. Domestic passengers in March 2009 was 85,045, as compared to 1.13 lakh in the same period in 2008. During summer vacation — May and June — the market showed good response as traffic jumped from -2.1% to 27%, respectively.
This sudden rise in passengers had boosted the airlines and hospitality industry that is still reaping the fruits of economic recovery. “In the last three months of the previous year (October, November and December), the airline capacity has remained around 70-80% which is profitable for the airlines,” said a premier airline official pleading anonymity.
The Northward trend has continued in January (2010) which had registered a growth of 20% and compared to the corresponding year. The existing domestic and international terminal is handling a movement of 35 flights a day, with no change since 2008.
“The very purpose of building a new terminal with a cost of Rs 100 crore is to handle the increasing passengers and flight traffic with the rate of 30% per year,” said an airport official.
The last six months (July-December) were very promising for Sanganer Airport which witnessed an average growth of 43%, compared to the corresponding period last year. According to AAI, Jaipur, total passengers flown in and out of Sanganer Airport were 14.19 lakh in 2009, compared with 12.53 lakh in 2008.
“Since operations started at new terminal building (July 2009), the passenger traffic witnessed a phenomenal rise. The travellers from both long and short haul (750 km and below 750 km distance from the city) had increased significantly,” said Anuj Agarwal.
Experts say that the gradual recovery from economic meltdown along with special offers by the airlines is responsible for the shining of aviation sector. Enthused by the rising numbers, the airport authority, Jaipur, has confirmed to have received proposals from some domestic and international airlines ahead of a Commonwealth Games. “Akash Ganga, a domestic airline, besides Best Air (Bangladesh) and Spice Jet are likely to start their international operations from this year,” added Agarwal.
The highest growth rate of 70% was recorded in September and that too in the middle of swine flu scare world over. This was followed by August which recorded a growth of 66%. The overseas passengers showed a phenomenal rise in October, November and December. In December alone, 19,500 foreigners travelled in and out of the Sanganer Airport.
“The sudden rise in foreign air travellers in last three months of previous year can be attributed to the tourist season, besides the surge in national and international corporate events that invites delegates from abroad,” said Tiahra Chishty, manager of an event management company.
Going by the figures, March was the worst-hit, as air passenger traffic registered a 24.7% decline. Domestic passengers in March 2009 was 85,045, as compared to 1.13 lakh in the same period in 2008. During summer vacation — May and June — the market showed good response as traffic jumped from -2.1% to 27%, respectively.
This sudden rise in passengers had boosted the airlines and hospitality industry that is still reaping the fruits of economic recovery. “In the last three months of the previous year (October, November and December), the airline capacity has remained around 70-80% which is profitable for the airlines,” said a premier airline official pleading anonymity.
The Northward trend has continued in January (2010) which had registered a growth of 20% and compared to the corresponding year. The existing domestic and international terminal is handling a movement of 35 flights a day, with no change since 2008.
“The very purpose of building a new terminal with a cost of Rs 100 crore is to handle the increasing passengers and flight traffic with the rate of 30% per year,” said an airport official.
Rs 2.5 lakh looted from employees of electricity dept
16 Feb 2010 JAIPUR: Two unidentified miscreants looted Rs 2.50 lakh from two electricity department employees who were returning to office after collecting the amount from consumers in Arniya village under Bandikui police station in Dausa district on Monday.
Police have registered a case in this regard and are investigating the incident.
According to police, Ram Kishore Sharma and Rameshwar Sharma were sitting at a shop of one Bhola Ram after collecting the electricity bill amount from the consumers of the area. Two persons on a motorcycle approached them and inquired about Bhola Ram, who was not present in the shop. Hearing this, they went away but as soon as the duo left the shop for their office to deposit the cash, the miscreants followed them. On reaching a deserted location, the duo tried to snatch the bag but when resisted, the miscreants threw chili powder in their eyes and snatched the bag, police said.
Sources said that though victims have sustained minor injuries, police are also looking into the possibility of their involvement in the incident.
Bandikui police said they have registered a case and are looking into the matter. Police have recorded statements of the victims and strict check has been launched in the area to nab the miscreants.
Police have registered a case in this regard and are investigating the incident.
According to police, Ram Kishore Sharma and Rameshwar Sharma were sitting at a shop of one Bhola Ram after collecting the electricity bill amount from the consumers of the area. Two persons on a motorcycle approached them and inquired about Bhola Ram, who was not present in the shop. Hearing this, they went away but as soon as the duo left the shop for their office to deposit the cash, the miscreants followed them. On reaching a deserted location, the duo tried to snatch the bag but when resisted, the miscreants threw chili powder in their eyes and snatched the bag, police said.
Sources said that though victims have sustained minor injuries, police are also looking into the possibility of their involvement in the incident.
Bandikui police said they have registered a case and are looking into the matter. Police have recorded statements of the victims and strict check has been launched in the area to nab the miscreants.
Basic water usage cap to be fixed, pay more for extra
16 Feb 2010 JAIPUR: Use more, pay more. The government is considering a progressive tariff policy for water. Users will now have to shell out more if they consume more than the basic limit to be soon fixed by the state government. The proposal was cleared by the state cabinet’s sub-committee.
However, the cabinet will have to give its final approval to the new draft water policy. This is likely on Wednesday. Under the new policy, drinking water tops the list of priority, followed by water for irrigation and power generation.
The new policy aims to optimise the water available in the state. The water resources department will prepare a comprehensive inventory of the existing resources before it drafts its distribution plan. Water distribution would henceforth be done in a decentralised manner.
“The policy looks into the prospects of diverting excess water in some areas to where there is a deficit by connecting the basins. This would be done after gauging the environmental impact and gaining confidence of the locals in the area,” said an official, adding that the state government is also contemplating limiting the use of groundwater. A source from the department confirmed that this would mean limiting the use of groundwater for commercial purposes.
Traditional water harvesting structures, along with the new ones, would be promoted. Principal secretary, water resources, Ram Lubhaya, said, “As part of the decentralisation, funds, functions and functionaries would be transferred to the panchayat and local bodies to involve more people in water management.” The draft policy states the state is heading towards absolute water scarcity. The per capita annual water availability in the state is about 780 cubic meter against a minimum requirement of 1000 cubic meter. It is feared that the availability would fall below 450 cubic meter by 2050.
However, the cabinet will have to give its final approval to the new draft water policy. This is likely on Wednesday. Under the new policy, drinking water tops the list of priority, followed by water for irrigation and power generation.
The new policy aims to optimise the water available in the state. The water resources department will prepare a comprehensive inventory of the existing resources before it drafts its distribution plan. Water distribution would henceforth be done in a decentralised manner.
“The policy looks into the prospects of diverting excess water in some areas to where there is a deficit by connecting the basins. This would be done after gauging the environmental impact and gaining confidence of the locals in the area,” said an official, adding that the state government is also contemplating limiting the use of groundwater. A source from the department confirmed that this would mean limiting the use of groundwater for commercial purposes.
Traditional water harvesting structures, along with the new ones, would be promoted. Principal secretary, water resources, Ram Lubhaya, said, “As part of the decentralisation, funds, functions and functionaries would be transferred to the panchayat and local bodies to involve more people in water management.” The draft policy states the state is heading towards absolute water scarcity. The per capita annual water availability in the state is about 780 cubic meter against a minimum requirement of 1000 cubic meter. It is feared that the availability would fall below 450 cubic meter by 2050.
Patient treated as 'specimen', given wrong injection
15 Feb 2010JAIPUR: A patient undergoing treatment at SMS Hospital for bone marrow infection was allegedly administered a wrong injection after which he developed complications and was rushed to the emergency ward. The patient, currently recuperating in the hospital, was reportedly taken to another ward by medical students as a ‘specimen’ for their college examination, during which the wrong medicine was given. As the patient developed complications, the nursing staff tore off the prescription of the medicine.
According to sources, the patient, Vijay Sharma, was undergoing treatment at 2F ward of the hospital and had been advised bone marrow transplant. As the surgery was unaffordable for his family, doctors at the ward had been providing best treatment to him.
However, on Saturday afternoon, he was taken to another ward by medical students and given an injection — Vanking 500 MG — in addition to other prescribed drugs. The patient soon developed rashes all over the body and complained of severe discomfort.
As the hospital staff realised their mistake, their first reaction was to destroy the evidence. “The nursing staff at the ward manhandled us and forcibly took away the prescription and tore it to pieces,” said a relative of the patient.
“After giving the injection, his condition deteriorated and the doctors at the 2F ward refused to accept him,” he added.
According to sources, the patient, Vijay Sharma, was undergoing treatment at 2F ward of the hospital and had been advised bone marrow transplant. As the surgery was unaffordable for his family, doctors at the ward had been providing best treatment to him.
However, on Saturday afternoon, he was taken to another ward by medical students and given an injection — Vanking 500 MG — in addition to other prescribed drugs. The patient soon developed rashes all over the body and complained of severe discomfort.
As the hospital staff realised their mistake, their first reaction was to destroy the evidence. “The nursing staff at the ward manhandled us and forcibly took away the prescription and tore it to pieces,” said a relative of the patient.
“After giving the injection, his condition deteriorated and the doctors at the 2F ward refused to accept him,” he added.
Corruption in NREGS not alarming
15 Feb 2010Emergence of a local mafia that siphons off funds, misuse of taxpayer's money or largescale corruption -- several anomalies have been detected during the implementation of NREGS since its launch in 2005. However, talking to Akhilesh Kumar Singh, Union minister for rural development and panchayati raj CP Joshi allayed misconceptions about the UPA government's flagship scheme, saying the NREGS had given a new dimension towards empowerment of rural India.
Q: The social audit of NREGS in Rajasthan was launched from Bhilwara, the constituency represented by you. But it was abruptly stopped. Why the brakes were imposed all of a sudden?
A:The social audit of NREGS in the state was stopped in compliance with a court order, which was based on the bylaws of the NREGA, which already has provisions for the audit of the funds involving sarpanches and officers from the local administration. Moreover, panchayat is a state subject and if states want to initiate audit through some other agency, they can do so as it had been done in Andhra Pradesh. I agree that ensuring transparency with the given norms was a little difficult as a sarpanch himself will be part of the audit team. But bringing any change can happen only through an amendment in the Act. One needs to understand the national corollary of the Act which mandates 100 days work to unemployed.
Q: Social activists, who were part of the audit team, allege that the governments (Centre and state) were not serious on checking the deep-rooted corruption in utilisation of NREGS funds. They say politicians were constrained by vote-bank politics and lacked will power?
A: I appreciate a few social activists who are doing excellent social service in Rajasthan and other parts of the country. But they need to understand the expanse of the scheme and the imminent challenges. There are 2.5 lakh panchayats in the country, where the NREGS has been implemented. Over Rs 40,000 crore is earmarked under the scheme so far. But my department has recieved complaints of irregularity in funds worth Rs 7.5 crore, which is negligible. So, the alleged corruption was not as alarming as it is being cited and it can be contained through routine exercises.
Q: NREGS has played a vital role in checking migration from villages but it has also hampered several other sectors mainly in urban areas like shortage of labourers etc. Besides, there is no quality check as there have been instances of funds not being properly utilised.
A: NREGS has a message for urban elite, the employer of the labourers in rural areas. They will have to pay the stipulated money to the labourer, otherwise NREGA ensures 100 days job in his own village. So it is for the people to increase the pay and keep the inflow of the labourer intact. The project initiative happens at the panchayat level and there are multi-tier screening committees which evaluate the viability of a project proposal. The processes involved are mainly meant to minimise any chance of manipulation.
Q: NREGS has also led to emergence of a new mafia which controls the entire funding process. Are you aware of it? If yes, what steps have been taken?
A: The so-called emergence of NREGS mafia is a new terminology coined by media a few days back. But, as I told earlier, there are several agencies involved in the entire exercise and hence "mafia" per se is not possible. Yes, there are some problems like how effective are the elected representatives. Over 66% of them are SC/STs and women. Majority of them are dependent on upper caste landlords. Women are guided by their male family members. But empowerment can't happen overnight and it will take some time. Once the elected representatives become self-dependent, most of the problems will be sorted out automatically.
Q: What modifications, you think, are required in NREGS?
A: Delayed payments are the biggest challenge. So it is the most important priority for us. Besides, NREGS will be introduced in Scheduled areas, as it could not be introduced in absence of panchayat machinery. Over 60,000 panchayats fall in Scheduled areas. For this purpose, the IT-enabled Rajiv Gandhi Sewa Kendra is being opened in Scheduled areas through which NREGS funds will be allocated. Rs 10,000 crore has already been sanctioned and 1,000 kendras at panchayat level and 2,500 at panchayat samiti level will be set up. The entire project has been launched from Rajasthan. Convergence of various projects under NREGS is also being worked out. Water-shed projects, forestry and agriculture will also be covered.
Q: There have been allegations that VIP constituencies are the main beneficiaries of NREGS. In Rajasthan, Bhilwara is one of them, which has been allocated the maximum funds?
A: Allocations are demand-based. So there should not be any confusion in this regard. Funding to Bhilwara was high even when I was not an MP from there. So such allegations are totally baseless. There are states like UP, Punjab, Haryana from where demand is not high. So allocations are done accordingly.
Q: The social audit of NREGS in Rajasthan was launched from Bhilwara, the constituency represented by you. But it was abruptly stopped. Why the brakes were imposed all of a sudden?
A:The social audit of NREGS in the state was stopped in compliance with a court order, which was based on the bylaws of the NREGA, which already has provisions for the audit of the funds involving sarpanches and officers from the local administration. Moreover, panchayat is a state subject and if states want to initiate audit through some other agency, they can do so as it had been done in Andhra Pradesh. I agree that ensuring transparency with the given norms was a little difficult as a sarpanch himself will be part of the audit team. But bringing any change can happen only through an amendment in the Act. One needs to understand the national corollary of the Act which mandates 100 days work to unemployed.
Q: Social activists, who were part of the audit team, allege that the governments (Centre and state) were not serious on checking the deep-rooted corruption in utilisation of NREGS funds. They say politicians were constrained by vote-bank politics and lacked will power?
A: I appreciate a few social activists who are doing excellent social service in Rajasthan and other parts of the country. But they need to understand the expanse of the scheme and the imminent challenges. There are 2.5 lakh panchayats in the country, where the NREGS has been implemented. Over Rs 40,000 crore is earmarked under the scheme so far. But my department has recieved complaints of irregularity in funds worth Rs 7.5 crore, which is negligible. So, the alleged corruption was not as alarming as it is being cited and it can be contained through routine exercises.
Q: NREGS has played a vital role in checking migration from villages but it has also hampered several other sectors mainly in urban areas like shortage of labourers etc. Besides, there is no quality check as there have been instances of funds not being properly utilised.
A: NREGS has a message for urban elite, the employer of the labourers in rural areas. They will have to pay the stipulated money to the labourer, otherwise NREGA ensures 100 days job in his own village. So it is for the people to increase the pay and keep the inflow of the labourer intact. The project initiative happens at the panchayat level and there are multi-tier screening committees which evaluate the viability of a project proposal. The processes involved are mainly meant to minimise any chance of manipulation.
Q: NREGS has also led to emergence of a new mafia which controls the entire funding process. Are you aware of it? If yes, what steps have been taken?
A: The so-called emergence of NREGS mafia is a new terminology coined by media a few days back. But, as I told earlier, there are several agencies involved in the entire exercise and hence "mafia" per se is not possible. Yes, there are some problems like how effective are the elected representatives. Over 66% of them are SC/STs and women. Majority of them are dependent on upper caste landlords. Women are guided by their male family members. But empowerment can't happen overnight and it will take some time. Once the elected representatives become self-dependent, most of the problems will be sorted out automatically.
Q: What modifications, you think, are required in NREGS?
A: Delayed payments are the biggest challenge. So it is the most important priority for us. Besides, NREGS will be introduced in Scheduled areas, as it could not be introduced in absence of panchayat machinery. Over 60,000 panchayats fall in Scheduled areas. For this purpose, the IT-enabled Rajiv Gandhi Sewa Kendra is being opened in Scheduled areas through which NREGS funds will be allocated. Rs 10,000 crore has already been sanctioned and 1,000 kendras at panchayat level and 2,500 at panchayat samiti level will be set up. The entire project has been launched from Rajasthan. Convergence of various projects under NREGS is also being worked out. Water-shed projects, forestry and agriculture will also be covered.
Q: There have been allegations that VIP constituencies are the main beneficiaries of NREGS. In Rajasthan, Bhilwara is one of them, which has been allocated the maximum funds?
A: Allocations are demand-based. So there should not be any confusion in this regard. Funding to Bhilwara was high even when I was not an MP from there. So such allegations are totally baseless. There are states like UP, Punjab, Haryana from where demand is not high. So allocations are done accordingly.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Now, Modi faction guns for Dixit's head
15 Feb 2010-JAIPUR: Though the dust was believed to have settled in the RCA after Union minister C P Joshi's intervention to ensure a smooth match on February 21, the recent CBI raid on RCA secretary Sanjay Dixit's residence has again raked up differences in the cricketing body.
Criticising Sanjay Dixit, some district cricket associations on Sunday demanded that either he resign or be sacked from the post of secretary. These units are believed to be supporters of IPL chief Lalit Modi.
Sensing that Dixit is in trouble because of the CBI raids, most of Modi's supporters have joined chorus with Rajasthan Cricket Players Association (RCPA), who has time and again criticised Dixit on one pretext or the other.
"Since C P Joshi is a senior politician and a man of clean image, he should ask Dixit to resign. We have written to both Joshi and chief minister Ashok Gehlot to sack him," said Rajendra Singh Rathore, secretary of Jhunjhunu district association.
Criticising Dixit and RCA for online sale of tickets and for leaving out experienced workers out to various committees, president of Tonk district association Anant Vyas said: "I am not against any individual but RCA's image has been tarnished by these raids. Dixit should himself offer to resign on moral grounds."
Secretary of RCPA and former Ranji medium pacer Shamsher Singh alleged that since Dixit was "underground," the preparations for the India-South Africa ODI scheduled for February 21 will be affected. "It is best that he be removed immediately,'' he adds.
Meanwhile, the man in eye of the storm Sanjay Dixit took a meeting of the various committees on Sunday afternoon. "Dixit has chaired a meeting this afternoon in SMS stadium and it automatically dispels the speculations that he was underground'. He is willing to cooperate with CBI which had raided his house. Till now, he has not been proved guilty. So there is no question of him resigning from his post. He also inspected the security arrangements with SP (south) today," said a source.
Criticising Sanjay Dixit, some district cricket associations on Sunday demanded that either he resign or be sacked from the post of secretary. These units are believed to be supporters of IPL chief Lalit Modi.
Sensing that Dixit is in trouble because of the CBI raids, most of Modi's supporters have joined chorus with Rajasthan Cricket Players Association (RCPA), who has time and again criticised Dixit on one pretext or the other.
"Since C P Joshi is a senior politician and a man of clean image, he should ask Dixit to resign. We have written to both Joshi and chief minister Ashok Gehlot to sack him," said Rajendra Singh Rathore, secretary of Jhunjhunu district association.
Criticising Dixit and RCA for online sale of tickets and for leaving out experienced workers out to various committees, president of Tonk district association Anant Vyas said: "I am not against any individual but RCA's image has been tarnished by these raids. Dixit should himself offer to resign on moral grounds."
Secretary of RCPA and former Ranji medium pacer Shamsher Singh alleged that since Dixit was "underground," the preparations for the India-South Africa ODI scheduled for February 21 will be affected. "It is best that he be removed immediately,'' he adds.
Meanwhile, the man in eye of the storm Sanjay Dixit took a meeting of the various committees on Sunday afternoon. "Dixit has chaired a meeting this afternoon in SMS stadium and it automatically dispels the speculations that he was underground'. He is willing to cooperate with CBI which had raided his house. Till now, he has not been proved guilty. So there is no question of him resigning from his post. He also inspected the security arrangements with SP (south) today," said a source.
Security lax at malls, multiplexes
15 Feb 2010-JAIPUR: The security scene at hotels, malls, multiplexes and eateries remains grim in Jaipur even after the blast in Pune which took nine lives and injured hundred others on Saturday.
The police said security arrangements have become important after inputs that terrorists are planning to strike at these places as they are frequented by tourists on a regular basis. In Pune attack, the terrorists had targeted a bakery which was milling with foreign tourists in the evening.
The administration of malls and multiplexes in the city claims to follow strict security measures as prescribed to them by the police. However, there are still many glaring negligence that one can spot.
At malls, including Raisar Plaza, Ganpati Plaza and others, there are hardly any security arrangements. Security guards have not been deployed and there are no equipment to frisk people.
"It is not feasible for us to check all the people who visit Raisar Plaza area every day. Close to 5,000 people visit the mall on a regular basis," said a representative of Raisar Plaza Vyapar Mandal. He added that the police should deploy cops to keep a tab on suspicious activities here.
However, management of multiplexes in the city claims to have all the security systems in place. "From entry into the mall to the ticket counter at the multiplex, people are frisked twice and they have to go through metal detectors. Their belongings are also checked before they enter the theater. CCTVs have also been installed at strategic places," said an official at Inox multiplex situated near 22 Godown Circle.
The tourists feel that security arrangements at eateries and restaurants in the city are not up to the mark.
"I went to a restaurant near Chomu Circle in C-Scheme area when someone told me that a lot of foreign tourists go there. I spotted many of them, but found no security arrangements in place," said Adrienne, a French tourist.
The police said security arrangements have become important after inputs that terrorists are planning to strike at these places as they are frequented by tourists on a regular basis. In Pune attack, the terrorists had targeted a bakery which was milling with foreign tourists in the evening.
The administration of malls and multiplexes in the city claims to follow strict security measures as prescribed to them by the police. However, there are still many glaring negligence that one can spot.
At malls, including Raisar Plaza, Ganpati Plaza and others, there are hardly any security arrangements. Security guards have not been deployed and there are no equipment to frisk people.
"It is not feasible for us to check all the people who visit Raisar Plaza area every day. Close to 5,000 people visit the mall on a regular basis," said a representative of Raisar Plaza Vyapar Mandal. He added that the police should deploy cops to keep a tab on suspicious activities here.
However, management of multiplexes in the city claims to have all the security systems in place. "From entry into the mall to the ticket counter at the multiplex, people are frisked twice and they have to go through metal detectors. Their belongings are also checked before they enter the theater. CCTVs have also been installed at strategic places," said an official at Inox multiplex situated near 22 Godown Circle.
The tourists feel that security arrangements at eateries and restaurants in the city are not up to the mark.
"I went to a restaurant near Chomu Circle in C-Scheme area when someone told me that a lot of foreign tourists go there. I spotted many of them, but found no security arrangements in place," said Adrienne, a French tourist.
Pune blast revokes Jaipurites' fears about Headley's visit
15 Feb 2010-JAIPUR: The Saturday blast in Pune has raised several questions and revoked the fears of residents of the cities that David Coleman Headley reportedly visited, the list including Jaipur and Pushkar as well. Though, the local investigation team had initiated an inquiry into the matter, anything concrete about his Jaipur visit is yet to be ascertained and doubts over Headley's intentions have surfaced again.
Senior police officials told TOI that though his stay in Pushkar has been confirmed by National Investigation Agency (NIA), his stay in Jaipur and his motive behind it is yet to be ascertained. Headley had visited Pushkar and Jaipur for recce of Israeli tourists and the places where they frequently visit. The Israeli tourists were reportedly on Headley's target.
"We received a tip-off from NIA that Headley might have gone from Pushkar to Mumbai via Jaipur. After searching the records of hotels and other places in Jaipur, we have yet not come across anything that suggests that Headley had stayed here," said a senior police officer.
After 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, Headley visited Pushkar a couple of times and spent about a month there. The NIA team, which had visited Pushkar in December last year while probing the matter, had said that Headley stayed in Hotel Oasis on March 11 and 12, 2009 near Bed-Khabad. They also confirmed he had taken a room facing the road where the Jewish prayer hall is located.
During the investigation it surfaced that he had gone to Mumbai via Jaipur and might have conducted recce of some places here as well. But after two months of investigation, the police officials said that no evidence regarding this has come up so far. "Earlier, NIA has suspected that he could have stayed in a hotel or an inn in Jaipur for a few days. It might be possible, but our investigation has yet not suggested anything like that," said a police officer. As in Pune blast, it has been confirmed that Headley had conducted recce of places where the blast took place, the questions regarding Headley's stay in Pushkar and Jaipur are once again haunting Rajasthan police. DGP, Rajasthan, Harish Chandra Meena told TOI that Headley's movements in Rajasthan are being considered very sensitive. "We are doing our best to help NIA, the agency which is probing the matter," said DGP Meena.
Senior police officials told TOI that though his stay in Pushkar has been confirmed by National Investigation Agency (NIA), his stay in Jaipur and his motive behind it is yet to be ascertained. Headley had visited Pushkar and Jaipur for recce of Israeli tourists and the places where they frequently visit. The Israeli tourists were reportedly on Headley's target.
"We received a tip-off from NIA that Headley might have gone from Pushkar to Mumbai via Jaipur. After searching the records of hotels and other places in Jaipur, we have yet not come across anything that suggests that Headley had stayed here," said a senior police officer.
After 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, Headley visited Pushkar a couple of times and spent about a month there. The NIA team, which had visited Pushkar in December last year while probing the matter, had said that Headley stayed in Hotel Oasis on March 11 and 12, 2009 near Bed-Khabad. They also confirmed he had taken a room facing the road where the Jewish prayer hall is located.
During the investigation it surfaced that he had gone to Mumbai via Jaipur and might have conducted recce of some places here as well. But after two months of investigation, the police officials said that no evidence regarding this has come up so far. "Earlier, NIA has suspected that he could have stayed in a hotel or an inn in Jaipur for a few days. It might be possible, but our investigation has yet not suggested anything like that," said a police officer. As in Pune blast, it has been confirmed that Headley had conducted recce of places where the blast took place, the questions regarding Headley's stay in Pushkar and Jaipur are once again haunting Rajasthan police. DGP, Rajasthan, Harish Chandra Meena told TOI that Headley's movements in Rajasthan are being considered very sensitive. "We are doing our best to help NIA, the agency which is probing the matter," said DGP Meena.
Girl ends life due to exam stress
14 Feb 2010-JODHPUR: The pressure of studies took yet another toll in Jodhpur, when a girl, a first year BBA student, committed suicide on Saturday afternoon. She had appeared for her examination which begun on February 10 and was afraid that she had not done well. According to the police, Vijay Shree (20) was studying BBA at a private college here.Her father confirmed she was depressed. Police said that she had her next paper on Saturday at 3.00 pm but committed suicide before that. Giving details, the police said that the family owns a grocery shop on the ground floor of a house. According to her mother, the girl had a meal and had visited the shop at 11.30 am. From there she went to her room saying that she was going to do her studies.
When she did not emerge for a long time, the parents went to look for her and found her hanging from the roof of her room through a thin plastic string.
According to her family members, she was very upset with the performance in the first paper and was not happy with her second paper too. On Saturday was to appear for the written exam, but instead of doing that she ended her life.
When she did not emerge for a long time, the parents went to look for her and found her hanging from the roof of her room through a thin plastic string.
According to her family members, she was very upset with the performance in the first paper and was not happy with her second paper too. On Saturday was to appear for the written exam, but instead of doing that she ended her life.
Is Dixit trying for anticipatory bail?
14 Feb 2010-JAIPUR: Sensing possibility of arrest in the passport verification case, the Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) secretary and senior IAS officer Sanjay Dixit is reportedly trying for an anticipatory bail.
He did not turn up at RCA on Saturday despite the fact that he was scheduled to be there around 3.30 pm. It gave rise to speculations that he might be making efforts for lobbying in political and bureaucratic circles. A few close aides of Dixit confirmed that the latter might also try for an anticipatory bail.
The CBI is also closing in on Dixit. Sources claimed that two days after the CBI raided five locations belonging to Dixit and history-sheeter Ranjeet Singh Panwar, the agency is in contact with chief secretary of Rajasthan,
department of personnel, ministry of external affairs and Jaipur SP (south) and collecting documents from them.
They also claimed that action might follow after the documents reach the CBI. The documents could not be collected due to holidays since Friday. They added that some strict action against Dixit might follow in a couple of days. “Documents have been sought from four places and CBI team from Jaipur has gone to Delhi to collect them from ministry of home affairs (MHA) also,” said a source.
“We are investigating the matter,” said SP (CBI) R S Kalia. He also refused to share information regarding documents which according to CBI proved a nexus between Panwar and Dixit.
Meanwhile, some of Dixit’s aides claimed that he had written a letter to the Jaipur passport office in October, 2008 stating that verification certificate issued to Panwar should be cancelled on the grounds that he had issued it by mistake. They also claimed that Ranjeet at that time was manager of kabbadi team which was to visit China and Dixit had issued the certificate in good faith.
The raids were conducted following a high court order that was passed a fortnight ago in a passport verification case. Dixit had allegedly ensured a passport for Singh under the tatkal scheme by issuing him a verification certificate despite the fact that the latter had many criminal cases pending against him.
He did not turn up at RCA on Saturday despite the fact that he was scheduled to be there around 3.30 pm. It gave rise to speculations that he might be making efforts for lobbying in political and bureaucratic circles. A few close aides of Dixit confirmed that the latter might also try for an anticipatory bail.
The CBI is also closing in on Dixit. Sources claimed that two days after the CBI raided five locations belonging to Dixit and history-sheeter Ranjeet Singh Panwar, the agency is in contact with chief secretary of Rajasthan,
department of personnel, ministry of external affairs and Jaipur SP (south) and collecting documents from them.
They also claimed that action might follow after the documents reach the CBI. The documents could not be collected due to holidays since Friday. They added that some strict action against Dixit might follow in a couple of days. “Documents have been sought from four places and CBI team from Jaipur has gone to Delhi to collect them from ministry of home affairs (MHA) also,” said a source.
“We are investigating the matter,” said SP (CBI) R S Kalia. He also refused to share information regarding documents which according to CBI proved a nexus between Panwar and Dixit.
Meanwhile, some of Dixit’s aides claimed that he had written a letter to the Jaipur passport office in October, 2008 stating that verification certificate issued to Panwar should be cancelled on the grounds that he had issued it by mistake. They also claimed that Ranjeet at that time was manager of kabbadi team which was to visit China and Dixit had issued the certificate in good faith.
The raids were conducted following a high court order that was passed a fortnight ago in a passport verification case. Dixit had allegedly ensured a passport for Singh under the tatkal scheme by issuing him a verification certificate despite the fact that the latter had many criminal cases pending against him.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Liquor smugglers arrested
14 Feb 2010 JAIPUR: The city police on Friday, seized IMFL worth Rs 4 lakh being smuggled into Jaipur from Haryana. The smugglers who broke road barricades were chased by cops of three police stations.
While fleeing they threw cartons of IMFL on the highway in a bid to lure truck drivers on the road to block the police vehicles. But finally police succeeded in nabbing two of the smugglers and seized a car and a pick-up vehicle used in smuggling. SP (north) Ashok Naruka said the Harmara police got a tip-off that a Mahindra pick-up and a Maruti carrying illegal liquor were on way to Jaipur. Cops of Vishwakarma and Karni Vihar police stations joined Harmara police in the chase.
The police intercepted the Maruti and nabbed two smugglers Indra Jaat and Ramprasad, residents of Sriganganagar district and Muhana in Jaipur, respectively. The smugglers travelling in the pick-up truck managed to escape leaving the vehicle behind.
While fleeing they threw cartons of IMFL on the highway in a bid to lure truck drivers on the road to block the police vehicles. But finally police succeeded in nabbing two of the smugglers and seized a car and a pick-up vehicle used in smuggling. SP (north) Ashok Naruka said the Harmara police got a tip-off that a Mahindra pick-up and a Maruti carrying illegal liquor were on way to Jaipur. Cops of Vishwakarma and Karni Vihar police stations joined Harmara police in the chase.
The police intercepted the Maruti and nabbed two smugglers Indra Jaat and Ramprasad, residents of Sriganganagar district and Muhana in Jaipur, respectively. The smugglers travelling in the pick-up truck managed to escape leaving the vehicle behind.
Couples celebrate V-Day away from city's din
14 Feb 2010 JAIPUR: This Valentine’s Day most couples in the Pink City will be travelling out to celebrate the day away from the hustle and bustle. It’s been a welcome weekend for travel agents who are walking all the way to the bank. “All the major locations in the state are booked, and even places on their route are packed. Jaipurites who prefer to venture out of the state are travelling to Goa, Nepal and Mauritius,” says Manoj Sorani, president, Travel Agent Association of India, Rajasthan Chapter.
Not just that there is another reason for the love birds to travel, not much is happening in the city as pubs, lounges and hotels stay away from celebrations. A lounge bar owner says, “We are not decking up our place, nor are we calling any DJ from outside. It will be a peaceful evening for our regular guests.” To that the manager of another leading five-star hotel says, “We too are staying away from lavish celebrations.” Ask them the reason and they say in unison, “First reason is that people are travelling out and second is going by the spate of unfortunate events why take a chance. Guests who walk in on Valentine’s Day will get the best treatment is what we can assure.”
A claim is that V-Day celebrations aren’t extra profit making venture this time as it falls on a Sunday, usual party day for the city. “Had it been any other day we would have thought about making it lavish, but this time there won’t be any added return,” says the manager of the five star hotel.
At the Golden Tulip, they are celebrating ‘Two 2 Tango’ theme and even offering a Club Class ticket for a couple to watch MNIK at a leading cinema hall. “People might be refraining, but we believe it’s time to celebrate love and have added an extra day to it. We have kept the price reasonable to ensure that people walk in with their loved ones and in Rs 1,500 per couple inclusive of taxes we offer food and drinks,” says Sujan Ganguly of Golden Tulip.
Despite the club owners giving V-Day a miss the florists and gift shop owners are busy. “Combination of cakes and roses is doing well and an average order is for Rs. 500. It’s been good so far and the big push will come on Sunday,” says Renu Gupta, who has a floral shop in Malviya Nagar.
Not just that there is another reason for the love birds to travel, not much is happening in the city as pubs, lounges and hotels stay away from celebrations. A lounge bar owner says, “We are not decking up our place, nor are we calling any DJ from outside. It will be a peaceful evening for our regular guests.” To that the manager of another leading five-star hotel says, “We too are staying away from lavish celebrations.” Ask them the reason and they say in unison, “First reason is that people are travelling out and second is going by the spate of unfortunate events why take a chance. Guests who walk in on Valentine’s Day will get the best treatment is what we can assure.”
A claim is that V-Day celebrations aren’t extra profit making venture this time as it falls on a Sunday, usual party day for the city. “Had it been any other day we would have thought about making it lavish, but this time there won’t be any added return,” says the manager of the five star hotel.
At the Golden Tulip, they are celebrating ‘Two 2 Tango’ theme and even offering a Club Class ticket for a couple to watch MNIK at a leading cinema hall. “People might be refraining, but we believe it’s time to celebrate love and have added an extra day to it. We have kept the price reasonable to ensure that people walk in with their loved ones and in Rs 1,500 per couple inclusive of taxes we offer food and drinks,” says Sujan Ganguly of Golden Tulip.
Despite the club owners giving V-Day a miss the florists and gift shop owners are busy. “Combination of cakes and roses is doing well and an average order is for Rs. 500. It’s been good so far and the big push will come on Sunday,” says Renu Gupta, who has a floral shop in Malviya Nagar.
Two-day health and beauty expo inaugurated, draws large crowd
JAIPUR: Mayor Jyoti Khandelwal inaugurated the mega Health & Beauty Expo at Birla Auditorium on Saturday. The two day expo has been organised by Times Wellness, Marvel Exhibitions and Events and Vidhas Fitness.
Inaugurating the event the first lady mayor of the city said that beauty is complementary while fitness is essential for success.
“Beauty adds confidence to one’s personality. However, it’s essential to maintain a healthy body to achieve and sustain success” said Jyoti Khandelwal during the inauguration ceremony. She also took an aura scan during her visit to the expo, the advice was tough choice “They advised me to take rest as the aura scan showed high level of work stress.
Well as a public representative I can’t take rest at the moment,” she said.
On the first day more than 500 visitors enhanced their understanding of personal care through a wide range of beauty, health and lifestyle products and services. “There are a lot of services available to chose from,” said a visitor Shraddha Sharma.
The visitors were provided with the latest advancements in the field of fitness by the representatives of Talwalkars while Vidhas Fitness offered services approved by the American Council of Exercise in India.
Fitness services by Kiaora and VLCC were also on display for the health conscious. Participants like Habib’s, Shades and a wide variety of herbal beauty products have also have special offers for visitors at the event.
Medical care and alternative therapy institutes like the Holistic Studio and doorstep diagnostic care providers Tru Worth are also participating in the event.
Inaugurating the event the first lady mayor of the city said that beauty is complementary while fitness is essential for success.
“Beauty adds confidence to one’s personality. However, it’s essential to maintain a healthy body to achieve and sustain success” said Jyoti Khandelwal during the inauguration ceremony. She also took an aura scan during her visit to the expo, the advice was tough choice “They advised me to take rest as the aura scan showed high level of work stress.
Well as a public representative I can’t take rest at the moment,” she said.
On the first day more than 500 visitors enhanced their understanding of personal care through a wide range of beauty, health and lifestyle products and services. “There are a lot of services available to chose from,” said a visitor Shraddha Sharma.
The visitors were provided with the latest advancements in the field of fitness by the representatives of Talwalkars while Vidhas Fitness offered services approved by the American Council of Exercise in India.
Fitness services by Kiaora and VLCC were also on display for the health conscious. Participants like Habib’s, Shades and a wide variety of herbal beauty products have also have special offers for visitors at the event.
Medical care and alternative therapy institutes like the Holistic Studio and doorstep diagnostic care providers Tru Worth are also participating in the event.
CBI grills Dixit for second day
13 Feb2010 JAIPUR: A day after five locations belonging to Rajasthan Cricket Association (RCA) secretary Sanjay Dixit and history-sheeter Ranjeet Singh Panwar were raided in a passport verification case, CBI sleuths on Friday interrogated Dixit, who is a senior IAS officer.
CBI officials they were only questioning Dixit and examining the documents seized from his locations on Thursday and it was early days yet to say whether he would be arrested. "We are examining the documents recovered during raids on Thursday," CBI spokesperson in Jaipur Atul Gupta told TOI.
After the raids, CBI had claimed it had seized documents proving a nexus between Dixit and Singh after which rumors were ripe that the IAS officer might be arrested. Dixit is secretary, command area development (CAD), in the state administration.
Gupta said he had been interrogated on Thursday and this continued on Friday. "He is being questioned about his relations with Panwar," Gupta added.
A CBI source claimed that as of now, there was no decision on whether Dixit will be arrested. "The investigation will take time and whether he would be arrested or not will be decided only after that," said the source. The CBI officials said that apart from documents, they recovered Rs 45,000 from his government bungalow in Gandhi Nagar.
CBI on Thursday carried out raids at five locations, including the residence and office of Dixit and Ranjeet Singh Panwar. The raids were conducted following a high court order that was passed a fortnight ago in a passport verification case.
Dixit had allegedly ensured a passport for Singh under the tatkal scheme by issuing him a verification certificate despite the fact that the latter had many criminal cases pending against him. The Jaipur police had arrested Singh from IGI Airport in New Delhi in July 2007 when he was flying to China as a member of a sports' delegation.
Meanwhile, Dixit and his camp are perplexed at the CBI action, claiming that agency's promptness smacked of vendetta as allegations could have been probed without creating such a hue and cry. "Ranjeet Singh is a politician and he has his relations in the sports fraternity too. The cases against him are politically motivated and he is not a criminal," said a Dixit sympathiser.
He alleged that a former RCA functionary was pushing the CBI to take harsh action against Dixit mainly to defame him at a time when the country's cricketing fraternity is keenly watching developments Jaipur, which is to host the first India-South Africa ODI on February 21.
"The second ODI between the two countries originally scheduled at Kanpur has already been shifted to Gwalior as there were reports about poor arrangements at Green Park in Kanpur. So all eyes are now focused on Jaipur as the fraternity wants a decent kick-off to the ODI series. But there is an effort to defame Dixit when RCA and Jaipur are in the limelight," said the Dixit sympathiser.
CBI officials they were only questioning Dixit and examining the documents seized from his locations on Thursday and it was early days yet to say whether he would be arrested. "We are examining the documents recovered during raids on Thursday," CBI spokesperson in Jaipur Atul Gupta told TOI.
After the raids, CBI had claimed it had seized documents proving a nexus between Dixit and Singh after which rumors were ripe that the IAS officer might be arrested. Dixit is secretary, command area development (CAD), in the state administration.
Gupta said he had been interrogated on Thursday and this continued on Friday. "He is being questioned about his relations with Panwar," Gupta added.
A CBI source claimed that as of now, there was no decision on whether Dixit will be arrested. "The investigation will take time and whether he would be arrested or not will be decided only after that," said the source. The CBI officials said that apart from documents, they recovered Rs 45,000 from his government bungalow in Gandhi Nagar.
CBI on Thursday carried out raids at five locations, including the residence and office of Dixit and Ranjeet Singh Panwar. The raids were conducted following a high court order that was passed a fortnight ago in a passport verification case.
Dixit had allegedly ensured a passport for Singh under the tatkal scheme by issuing him a verification certificate despite the fact that the latter had many criminal cases pending against him. The Jaipur police had arrested Singh from IGI Airport in New Delhi in July 2007 when he was flying to China as a member of a sports' delegation.
Meanwhile, Dixit and his camp are perplexed at the CBI action, claiming that agency's promptness smacked of vendetta as allegations could have been probed without creating such a hue and cry. "Ranjeet Singh is a politician and he has his relations in the sports fraternity too. The cases against him are politically motivated and he is not a criminal," said a Dixit sympathiser.
He alleged that a former RCA functionary was pushing the CBI to take harsh action against Dixit mainly to defame him at a time when the country's cricketing fraternity is keenly watching developments Jaipur, which is to host the first India-South Africa ODI on February 21.
"The second ODI between the two countries originally scheduled at Kanpur has already been shifted to Gwalior as there were reports about poor arrangements at Green Park in Kanpur. So all eyes are now focused on Jaipur as the fraternity wants a decent kick-off to the ODI series. But there is an effort to defame Dixit when RCA and Jaipur are in the limelight," said the Dixit sympathiser.
Chain-snatcher gang busted: 5 held
13 Feb 2010 JAIPUR: Police busted a gang of chain-snatchers and arrested five men here on Friday. They were reportedly involved in many recent chain-snatching incidents creating panic among women. Acting on a tip-off, a police team headed by CO (Vishwakarma) Ramswaroop and Vidhyadhar Nagar SHO, nabbed Manoj Shikari (23), Jagmohan (23), Arjun alias Kalwa Singh (20) and Indrish (32), all city residents.
SP (north) Ashok Naruka said, "Manoj Shikari was arrested in 2009 along with his mother Anguri Devi and wife Seema for their involvement in chain-snatching incidents. There were 11 such cases registered against them with Murlipura and Jhotwara police stations. Anguri Devi is a history-sheeter of Jhotwara." He added Manoj is the mastermind and became active after his release from jail in August, 2009.
The police said that Arjun is brother-in-law of Manoj. "Arjun's father Dharm Singh is serving a life term for murder ," said the officer.
Naruka added the accused used to work as tempo drivers and conducted recce of the victims and places where they planned to strike. One of them, Indrish, used to sell the snatched chains after melting them.
The police said that the accused have so far confessed to having snatched nine gold chains in the Vidhyadhar Nagar and Muralipura areas. The police suspect they are involved in many other chain-snatching incidents in the city.
SP (north) Ashok Naruka said, "Manoj Shikari was arrested in 2009 along with his mother Anguri Devi and wife Seema for their involvement in chain-snatching incidents. There were 11 such cases registered against them with Murlipura and Jhotwara police stations. Anguri Devi is a history-sheeter of Jhotwara." He added Manoj is the mastermind and became active after his release from jail in August, 2009.
The police said that Arjun is brother-in-law of Manoj. "Arjun's father Dharm Singh is serving a life term for murder ," said the officer.
Naruka added the accused used to work as tempo drivers and conducted recce of the victims and places where they planned to strike. One of them, Indrish, used to sell the snatched chains after melting them.
The police said that the accused have so far confessed to having snatched nine gold chains in the Vidhyadhar Nagar and Muralipura areas. The police suspect they are involved in many other chain-snatching incidents in the city.
Sexual harassment of minor: one more held
13 Feb 2010 BIKANER: Police arrested one more accused, Geeta, wife of Om Prakash, in the case of sexual harassment of an adolescent girl on Thursday night.
She was presented before the court and sent to judicial custody. Investigating officer Madanlal Kadwasara told the court that Geeta, cousin of main accused Lalchand Nayak, helped kidnap the adolescent and took her to the servants' quarters in the army cantonment area in Bikaneer.
Madanlal said Geeta was arrested on the basis of statements made by accused Lalchand and the victim. He said the police will investigate the frequency of Geeta's visit to the army cantonment area and her contacts in the army.
Lalchand Nayak, accused of sexually assaulting an adolescent girl, was arrested on the basis of an FIR lodged by father of the victim. During interrogation, Lalchand Nayak told the police where to find the girl. She was found in the servants' quarters of the army cantonment in Bikaner. The servant's quarters was in the official residence of Lt Col Rajiv Mishra.
The 12-year-old victim was medically examined and her statement was recorded in the presence of a magistrate. She said Lalchand had kidnapped her last month and kept her captive in the servants' quarters. The child said Lalchand sexually and physically abused her and warned her to not to disclose anything. Initially, Lalchand assured her that he would marry her soon. Police registered a case U/S 363, 366 and 376 of IPC in Sadar police station. After medical examination the girl was handed over to her parents.
Police also recorded the statement of Lt Col Rajiv Mishra, in whose servants' quarters the girl was found. He said he was unaware of what had happened. Lt Col Mishra was asked to submit relevant records and provide information about Lalchand Nayak, since he was working as his servant.
Ma. General K S Kumar, GoC of Ranbankura Division of Army at Bikaner, has also directed military police and military intelligence wing to investigate the matter thoroughly.
The authorities are surprised that somebody could keep a girl in the servants quarters of an officer of Lt Col rank and not just the officer, but the whole security and intelligence staff failed to prevent such activities. It seems to indicate negligence on the part of the army. The barbed wire fencing in the area is missing at many places and land mafia has grabbed valuable land allotted to the army. Besides, anti-social elements may easily trespass into the area and pose a threat to security. Earlier, a Pakistani suspect was arrested in the area. Now after Geeta's arrest, the matter is taking a serious turn so far as trespassing by civilians is concerned.
She was presented before the court and sent to judicial custody. Investigating officer Madanlal Kadwasara told the court that Geeta, cousin of main accused Lalchand Nayak, helped kidnap the adolescent and took her to the servants' quarters in the army cantonment area in Bikaneer.
Madanlal said Geeta was arrested on the basis of statements made by accused Lalchand and the victim. He said the police will investigate the frequency of Geeta's visit to the army cantonment area and her contacts in the army.
Lalchand Nayak, accused of sexually assaulting an adolescent girl, was arrested on the basis of an FIR lodged by father of the victim. During interrogation, Lalchand Nayak told the police where to find the girl. She was found in the servants' quarters of the army cantonment in Bikaner. The servant's quarters was in the official residence of Lt Col Rajiv Mishra.
The 12-year-old victim was medically examined and her statement was recorded in the presence of a magistrate. She said Lalchand had kidnapped her last month and kept her captive in the servants' quarters. The child said Lalchand sexually and physically abused her and warned her to not to disclose anything. Initially, Lalchand assured her that he would marry her soon. Police registered a case U/S 363, 366 and 376 of IPC in Sadar police station. After medical examination the girl was handed over to her parents.
Police also recorded the statement of Lt Col Rajiv Mishra, in whose servants' quarters the girl was found. He said he was unaware of what had happened. Lt Col Mishra was asked to submit relevant records and provide information about Lalchand Nayak, since he was working as his servant.
Ma. General K S Kumar, GoC of Ranbankura Division of Army at Bikaner, has also directed military police and military intelligence wing to investigate the matter thoroughly.
The authorities are surprised that somebody could keep a girl in the servants quarters of an officer of Lt Col rank and not just the officer, but the whole security and intelligence staff failed to prevent such activities. It seems to indicate negligence on the part of the army. The barbed wire fencing in the area is missing at many places and land mafia has grabbed valuable land allotted to the army. Besides, anti-social elements may easily trespass into the area and pose a threat to security. Earlier, a Pakistani suspect was arrested in the area. Now after Geeta's arrest, the matter is taking a serious turn so far as trespassing by civilians is concerned.
Newly-elected sarpanches want social audit to continue
13 Feb 2010JAIPUR: The Suchna Evam Rozar Adhikar Abhiyan has decided to carry forward the social audit of NREGS accounts in the state as demanded by many newly-elected sarpanches. Ironically, just before the panchayat polls, it was the then sarpanches who had protested against the audit. Demonstrations were even held forcing the government to rethink before the high court put brakes on the process.
"About 30 sarpanches elected this time are like-minded people and have won the polls through sheer honest means. They are not amongst those who spent lakhs to ensure victory. And it is these sarpanches who now want a social audit of NREGS to ensure transparency," said Nikhil Dey of the organisation.
In fact, many of these sarpanches were associated with process right from the beginning. Eight activists of the organisation have won from Pali, four from Sirohi, four from Udaipur and two from Kishangarh. "They are of the opinion that they will frame a common manifesto that would focus on transparency and community participation in all work. The manifesto would shortly be made public in a joint meeting. We then plan to organise a seminar for them," he said.
"This group of sarpanches will fight for a clean governance at the panchayat level and we want them to set up an example for others to follow," added prominent social worker Aruna Roy. She also voiced her concerns those women sarpanches who have won the polls this time due to 50% reservation and said that many of them are illiterate and could be misused by others into committing frauds in NREGS.
"About 30 sarpanches elected this time are like-minded people and have won the polls through sheer honest means. They are not amongst those who spent lakhs to ensure victory. And it is these sarpanches who now want a social audit of NREGS to ensure transparency," said Nikhil Dey of the organisation.
In fact, many of these sarpanches were associated with process right from the beginning. Eight activists of the organisation have won from Pali, four from Sirohi, four from Udaipur and two from Kishangarh. "They are of the opinion that they will frame a common manifesto that would focus on transparency and community participation in all work. The manifesto would shortly be made public in a joint meeting. We then plan to organise a seminar for them," he said.
"This group of sarpanches will fight for a clean governance at the panchayat level and we want them to set up an example for others to follow," added prominent social worker Aruna Roy. She also voiced her concerns those women sarpanches who have won the polls this time due to 50% reservation and said that many of them are illiterate and could be misused by others into committing frauds in NREGS.
Old beauties to hit roads today
13 Feb 2010JAIPUR: The vintage cars Mercedes, Porsche, Rolls Royce, Ferrari are all set to hit the city roads on Saturday. The 12th Vintage and Classic Cars rally is being organised by The Rajputana Automotive Sports Car Club (RASCC) in association with state department of tourism
The rally will be flagged-off by Bina Kak, tourism minister. It will pass through various historical places like Badi Chauper, Hawa Mahal, Jai Mahal, Amber Fort and proceed to Ramgarh dam.
Dayanidhi Kasliwal, president, Rajputana Automotive Sports Car Club, said, "This year, the car rally has been dedicated to late Rajmata Gayatri Devi. "Rajmata always was passionate about the car rallies that even she drove her cars twice in our rallies inspite of her ill health," said Kasliwal.
The prize distribution ceremony will take place at Hotel Clarks Amber by governor Prabha Rao. The trophy will be given to the best participating car in the Classic section. This year the organisers have received over 100 entries, including 10 cars belonging from Heritage Club of India and few cars are expected from Jodhpur. The cars, which will be participating are, Packard, Cadillac, Daimler, Jaguars, Austins, Chrysler, Studebaker, Humber, Erskine, Ford Mustang.
The cars will be displayed for public exhibition at Hotel Jai Mahal Palace, Civil Lines on Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm. The exhibition will be inaugurated by S Gaurier, chief post master general, Rajasthan Circle, department of post. Some cars were shown in movies like Zubeida, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Gandhi and Queenie.
Avijit Singh, secretary of RASCC informed that a special cover will be released with the co-operation of department of posts, Rajasthan Circle, and Philatelic Society of Rajasthan. "The cover will depict the late Rajmata Gayatri Devi with her vintage Rolls Royce
The rally will be flagged-off by Bina Kak, tourism minister. It will pass through various historical places like Badi Chauper, Hawa Mahal, Jai Mahal, Amber Fort and proceed to Ramgarh dam.
Dayanidhi Kasliwal, president, Rajputana Automotive Sports Car Club, said, "This year, the car rally has been dedicated to late Rajmata Gayatri Devi. "Rajmata always was passionate about the car rallies that even she drove her cars twice in our rallies inspite of her ill health," said Kasliwal.
The prize distribution ceremony will take place at Hotel Clarks Amber by governor Prabha Rao. The trophy will be given to the best participating car in the Classic section. This year the organisers have received over 100 entries, including 10 cars belonging from Heritage Club of India and few cars are expected from Jodhpur. The cars, which will be participating are, Packard, Cadillac, Daimler, Jaguars, Austins, Chrysler, Studebaker, Humber, Erskine, Ford Mustang.
The cars will be displayed for public exhibition at Hotel Jai Mahal Palace, Civil Lines on Saturday from 10 am to 6 pm. The exhibition will be inaugurated by S Gaurier, chief post master general, Rajasthan Circle, department of post. Some cars were shown in movies like Zubeida, Bhool Bhulaiyaa, Gandhi and Queenie.
Avijit Singh, secretary of RASCC informed that a special cover will be released with the co-operation of department of posts, Rajasthan Circle, and Philatelic Society of Rajasthan. "The cover will depict the late Rajmata Gayatri Devi with her vintage Rolls Royce
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