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Suspension of Lord Ahmed could prove to be suicide as far as the Muslim vote goes. George Galloway MP
Lord Nazir Ahmed was suspended from the party after a Pakistani newspaper reported he allegedly offered cash for the capture of Mr Obama Following Lord Ahmeds denial, The Express Tribunes reporter, who covered the story in Haripur, said he mistakenly wrote the name of current US President
Obama and clarified that the offer was for Bush and Blair. He said that he and other journalists present on that occasion have recordings of Lord Nazirs statement, adding that some TV channels and at least four Urdu newspapers, including a Karachi-based daily, had also run the comments but obviously they did not have
Obamas name. He disclosed that, following the news of the suspension of Lord Ahmeds Labour membership, he had been receiving phone calls from unknown people, who were pressurising him and questioning the veracity of the report. Continued on page 3 >>
SATribune readers should write to the Director of Public Prosecutions and demand that Babar Ahmad and Talha Ahsan be put on trial in the UK
Shadow justice secretary Sadiq Khan says terror suspect should by tried in UK rather than extradited to the US Labours justice spokesman is pressing the home secretary for Babar Ahmad to
by British police. Sadiq Khan, who represents Tooting in south London, is the constituency MP for Ahmad and another man, Syed Talha Ahsan, who is
NEWS
sponsors (the chaps who stand beside you while you wait for the Speakers summons). One was Gerry Sutcliffe, Labour MP for Bradford South; the other was Sir Peter Tapsell, our longestserving MP (Commons debut: 1959) and thus known as the Father of the House. And the big moment came. Order, cried the Speaker. Would the Honourable Member wishing to take his seat please come to the table? The House fell silent. Mr Galloway
Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, her heirs and successors, according to law. The Conservative Chief Whip shook hands gratefully with the thrasher of Labour. Mark Tami (Lab, Alyn & Deeside) placed party differences aside and patted Mr Galloway on the shoulder. Respects George Galloway has returned to the House of Commons, insisting he is just the advance party for the army mustering in the North. Speaking at Parliaments St
Theres an army mustering in the North and in the great industrial and post-industrial cities of this country, an army of discontented, alienated people who feel that this place has let them down, it has failed the country and it has failed the people. I notice that New Labour is terrified of any further byelections and I can understand why because this concept that I have coined, its rather rude, that three cheeks of the same backside
action in the wake of the frankly disastrous military situation which is becoming like Vietnam 1968. In an interview with the Big Issue, Mr Galloway claimed he is the Robin Hood of British politics, saying: If I was a bigamist, Id be under arrest. If I was a tax dodger, Id be under arrest. Im the most inquired-into individual in British politics. By a country mile. If I did things wrong, be sure Id be already in big trouble.
stepped forward, bowed his head to the Speaker once, reached the table, bowed his head again. I, George Galloway, he read aloud, do solemnly, sincerely and truly declare and affirm that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to
Stephens entrance, Mr Galloway vowed to use his first week back in the Commons to raise the war in Afghanistan, likening it to Vietnam. He said: It is good to be back but Im just the advance party.
pretty much sums them up as far as most people in the country are concerned. Mr Galloway, accompanied by his fourth wife, 27-year-old Dutch/ Indonesian anthropologist Putri Pertiwi, said he would press for
We have a prevailing orthodoxy: theres a few inches of political life in which its acceptable to have a different view but if you challenge the fundamentals of policy, youre an outlaw. Youre Robin Hood.
Mr Galloway called the fighting a bloody maw and asked Mr Cameron to reconsider Britains position of withdrawing troops by the end of 2014, following
Australian prime minister Julia Gillards accelerated timetable for pulling out Australian forces. David Cameron congratulated George Galloway on his win in the
NEWS
A policeman recorded allegedly racially abusing a young black man under arrest in east London last year will now be charged over the incident.
In a major u-turn, the Crown Prosecution Service has decided there IS sufficient evidence to put Pc Alex MacFarlane before a court. The original decision not to charge MacFarlane was taken back in January despite a mobile phone recording featuring racially offensive words. When the tape was made public the CPS announced a review of the decision as further allegations of racism by Met Police officers emerged. Today the CPS has said the
original decision was wrong and regrettable. MacFarlane will shortly be issued with a summons for a racially aggravate public order offence
though the decision not to charge him with assaulting the 21 year old still stands. The lawyer who made the decision is having his work reviewed and
decisions hes made in other cases are being re-examined. The incidents range from racist language in emails to the use of the n***** word. The figures, obtained under the Freedom of Information act, date back to the Macpherson report 13 years ago which followed the death of black teenager Stephen Lawrence and led to the Met Police being labelled institutionally
racist. Also on Tuesday, a review by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) found sufficient evidence to charge Met Police officer Alex McFarlane with a racially aggravated public order offence, and has now advised the Independent Police Complaints Commission (IPCC) to press charges. The officer was accused of using racist language against a 21-yearold black man, and was apparently recorded by the suspect on his mobile phone. Earlier this month, Channel 4 News revealed 120 race cases inside the Met and just one dismissal during the same time frame. This data, gathered from 31 forces in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, completes the national picture.
reward worth $10 million for the capture or any information leading to the capture of Saeed, making him one of the most wanted persons in the world. Hafiz Saeed, responded to the US bounty and said that he will be in Lahore and the US can contact him whenever it wants. The bounty is always set on people who are in hiding There is no case against me in any American court,
the capture and trial of religious leader Hafiz Saeed. Lord Nazir denied passing these remarks immediately. His denial was partially accurate, given that he never mentioned the name of current US President Barack Obama or the word bounty, as the The Express Tribune had reported. Instead, he made an offer for bringing to justice former US president George W Bush and former UK prime
Lords on Wednesday 28th March 2012 at 6 pm Committee Room 3 . Sheikh Rashid is one of the leader of recently formed Difa e Pakistan including Hafiz Saeed Saeed, whose JuD is believed to be linked to anti-India militant group Lashkar-eTaiba, despite U.S. was unsure of Saeed role in 26/11 attack The US announced a
he maintained while terming the bounty absurd. Britains Labour Party suspended Lord Nazir Ahmed after a report on Sunday quoted him as offering 10 million ($15.9 million) for the capture and trial of UK and US leaders in retaliation to the $10 million offered by the US for
minister Tony Blair for what he termed to be their war crimes. Likening the two cases, he said that if the reward for Saeed was ok, then his offer for Bush and Blair was also ok. Whether his suspension was for mentioning President Obamas name, or the nature of the comments itself is unclear.
Considering his ordeal over the past 17 years, Sultan Alam has surprising advice for a young Asian man or woman considering joining the police: Do it. But do so with your eyes open because no one should think they cannot break the glass ceiling in any organisation. Monday Mr Alam, a retired traffic officer with Cleveland Police, was awarded more than 840,000 for loss of earnings and damages after staging a one-man battle against his former employer dating back to 1994. Cleveland police admitted malicious prosecution towards Alam during a hearing at Leeds Crown Court last year. It was there the trial heard that Alam s police colleagues who had conspired to falsely send Alam to prison, were themselves never tried before a crown court. Three of those officers have left the service, but one remains a serving constable. Alams crime in the eyes of his colleagues was that he made a complaint about their bigoted behavior after he endured a series of racial incidents including being posted Ku Klux Klan material. Having been falsely convicted of theft,
Alams life fell apart. His marriage broke down, as did his health, and reputation. During his time in prison nine months - as an ex police officer, he said that he was a marked man, always fearful for his wellbeing. Like many of you I am convinced that with the race cases that we already know about including this one, along with the very suspicious and controversial recent Black deaths in police custody, the call for a Public Enquiry into racism within our police force is becoming louder and louder. Clearly if police officers such as those in Cleveland felt confident and arrogant enough to fit up one of their own, what chance do we have or worse still, whos going to believe a petty Black criminal when they claim they have been fitted up? Looking back on his battle, Mr Alam said he never considered giving up. It was never about the money. Its about the principle. Its about whats right, he said.
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Respect or Labour
We have suspended Lord Ahmed pending investigation, Labour Party. Lord Ahmed immediately denied having passed the comments. Lord Ahmed is no stranger to controversy in Britain. He hosted a book launch at the House of Lords in 2005 of a controversial Swedish writer Israel Shamir who is known for his anti-Israeli and Jewish views. Ahmed was a vocal opponent of the British governments decision to honor writer Salman Rushdie with a knighthood in 2007. Whether his suspension was for mentioning President Obamas name, or the nature of the comments itself is unclear. Lord Nazir has responded by saying that he has been misquoted by the newspaper, Lord Ahmed : I never said those words. I did not offer a bounty. I said that there have been war crimes committed in Iraq and Afghanistan and those people who have got strong allegations against them George W Bush and Tony Blair have been involved in illegal wars and should be brought to justice. I do not think theres anything wrong with that. If the Labour Party want to suspend me I will deal with the Labour Party. They will have to give me some evidence. The Express Tribunes reporter, who covered the story in Haripur, said he mistakenly wrote the name of current US President Obama and clarified that the offer was for Bush and Blair. He said that he and other journalists present on that occasion have recordings of Lord Nazirs statement, adding that some TV channels and at least four Urdu newspapers, including a Karachibased daily, had also run the comments but obviously they did not have Obamas name. Monday night Lord Ahmed spoke to Channel 4 News and continued to deny reports of his words. He told Cathy Newman: It is a complete pack of lies I was talking about illegal war in Iraq, and the war crimes committed in Iraq and Afghanistan and International Criminal Court In my opinion, I think Mr Bush and Mr Blair have been involved in an illegal war in Iraq outside the UN resolution. This is not a secret. I did not offer a bounty for the capture of Tony Blair and George Bush. I did not. This is a complete fabrication. They should be brought to justice, taken to court. But not to capture that is completely different to taking them to justice, and to court. It was in the context that whatever it costs to bring people to justice then that should be done. He said he did not use the Urdu word for capture. He just said that Bush and Blair should be brought before some court the International Criminal Court has no jurisdiction for war crimes. According to a Channel 4 News release, the translation from Urdu in the video is as follows: America has just said that they will give a reward of $10m to anyone who arrests or hands over Hafiz Saeed. I am saying that even if I have to beg in Haripur, Pakistan, the US or Britain. Even if I have to beg I am willing to raise and offer 10 million so that George W Bush and Tony Blair can be brought to the International Court of Justice on war crimes charges. Even if I have to sell my house I am ready to do it. The thing is that, if they are talking sensibly then I too am talking sensibly. The US has put pressure on Pakistan. To release this pressure I am are saying this. But the thing is, a political move should be countered with a political move. Channel 4 News has asked the Labour Party whether Lord Ahmed remains suspended in light of this footage. George Galloway win has exposed the void at Labours core and left it fighting for its life. On Monday Respect MP George Galloway said that Labours decision to suspend Lord Ahmed was suicide and suggested the peer defect to his party. I think the suspension of Lord Nazir Ahmed indicates that New Labour is on some sort of suicide mission so far as the Muslim vote goes, he said. Lord Nazir is a great figure - not politically close to me - among the Asian heritage population of Britain and is now suspended from the Labour party, as I myself was. So let me extend to him an invitation to fill in an application form and join Respect. the news of Galloways victory left many stunned. They all asked why. Labour has been heading for electoral catastrophe as sure as night follows day. And now after Lord Nazir Ahmed suspension it seems New Labour is as George well said on some sort of suicide mission so far as the Muslim vote goes,. The Bradford West result was a powerful message of a collapse of trust between people and politicians. The lies must end now. The Labour Party is no longer fighting to win the next election. Its fighting to stay in existence . George Galloways victory showed Britain is sick of the war, racism, and demonizing of Islam. The people of Bradford West have spoken. Its a message of thunderous simplicity. Our three political parties decide not to see, hear or understand. I think its time for Respect not Labour.
EDITORIAL
Israeli TV report shows air force gearing up for Iran attack, says moment of truth is near IAF expects losses, and knows it cant destroy entire Iranian program
A major Israel TV station on Sunday night broadcast a detailed report on how Israel will go about attacking Irans nuclear facilities in the event that diplomacy and sanctions fail and Israel decides to carry out an attack. The report, screened on the main evening news of Channel 10, was remarkable both in terms of the access granted to the reporter, and the fact that his assessments on a strike were cleared by the military censor. No order to strike is likely to be given before the P5+1 talks with Iran resume in May, the reporter, Alon Ben-David, said. But the coming summer will not only be hot but tense. In the event that negotiations fail and the order is given for Israel to carry out an attack on Iranian nuclear facilities, dozens if not more planes will take part in the mission: attack and escort jets, tankers for mid-
What peace?
to think there would be no losses. The IAF is said to be worried about the advanced anti-aircraft systems that Russia has sold to countries in the region, the report said. Among those systems, the SA 17 and 22 in Syria and Iran present a challenge, according to the report. According to the report, its the older versions of the F-15 that can fly further than any other plane in Israels arsenal, and this puts it on
air refueling, electronic warfare planes and rescue helicopters, the report said. Ben-David said the Israel Air Force does not have the capacity to destroy the entire Iranian program. There will be no replication of the decisive strikes on Iraqs Osirak reactor in 1981 or on Syria in 2007, he said. The result wont definitive. But, a pilot quoted in the report said, the IAF will have
the front line of any potential attack. One pilot said in the report that the F-15, or Havaz, is a plane with a very wide range of operation a combination of relatively energyefficient engines, and significant flightworthiness regarding weapons and fuel. The IAF has a full-sized unmanned plane, the Eitan, that is said to be able to fly to Iran, the report added. This plane can do
Benny Gantz at Yad Vashem: IDF can and must protect all Jews, everywhere Israel must serve as a safe haven for all Jews and it has an army that is capable of guaranteeing their safety, Chief of General Staff Lt. Gen Benny Gantz said at an educational seminar on Monday. In an apparent reference to Irans nuclear program and the Tehran regimes repeated endorsement of Israels demise, he said Israel has an army capable of dealing with any enemy. Gantz gave the address before members of the IDFs General Staff. War-footing? Iranian commander says Iran among the most powerful forces in the world A senior Iranian commander stressed the Armys capability to supply its military needs, and said Irans Army is amongst the most powerful forces in the world. Speaking to reporters on the occasion of Irans Army Day (April 17), Commander of the Armys Western Operation Command General Amir Manouchehr Kazzemi said, today, the Army of the Islamic Republic of Iran is among the most powerful armed forces of the world.
to ensure that it emerges with the necessary result, with a short and professional assault. Ben-David said that if negotiations break down, and Iran moves key parts of its nuclear program underground to its Qom facility, the IAF is likely to get the order and to set out on the long journey to Iran. Years of preparations are likely to come to realization, he said, adding that the moment of truth is near. Ben-David interviewed several squadron leaders, pilots and other officers. He noted that some of the IAF personnel, it is likely, will not return from the mission. An officer named Gilad said it would be naive
all that is required of it when the order is given, a pilot said, without elaboration. The attack, the report said, would presumably trigger a war in northern Israel, with missile attacks (presumably from the Iranian-proxy Hezbollah in Lebanon). There will no tranquility and peace anywhere in Israel, BenDavid said. This could be the first full-scale war the IAF has fought in nearly 30 years, the report stated. Pilots had already been told where their families would be moved, away from their bases, for safety, the report said. Army is capable of dealing with any enemy, says chief of staff
The Army of the Islamic Republic is not all dependent as far as military tools and equipment are concerned, and that is the result of the presence of expert personnel, Kazzemi stated. Iran has taken wide strides in designing and manufacturing different types of light, semi-heavy and heavy weapons, military tools and equipment. Speaking to FNA on the sidelines of Valfajr military drills in Irans Central province of Yazd, the IRGC commander said, The war games came after the US threats and aggressions, specially its invasion of the neighboring and regional states.
The United Nations Security Council has unanimously agreed to send an initial team of unarmed truce observers to Syria. The resolution, which authorises the dispatch of an advance team of up to 30 unarmed military observers to Syria to monitor compliance with the ceasefire agreement, passed 15-0. The observers will be tasked with establishing and maintaining contact with both sides of the conflict, and reporting on ceasefire compliance until a full mission is deployed in the country. I will make sure that this advance observer mission will be dispatched as soon as possible and try to make concrete proposals by the 18th of April for an official observer mission, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said. A spokesman for international envoy Kofi Annan said on Saturday that an advance team of
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six monitors would arrive in Syria within 24 hours and deploy within 36 hours. It will be followed by a larger contingent of up to 250 once the situation has stabilised. The resolution also calls on both sides to immediately cease all armed violence in all its forms and for the Syrian government to implement the demand by Kofi Annan to pull troops and heavy
weapons out of cities and towns. Its the first resolution on Syria the 15-nation Council managed to approve unanimously since the uprising against President Assad erupted in March 2011. Russia, which has previously vetoed 2 resolutions on Syria, showed satisfaction with the latest document, based on the 6-point plan, worked out by UN-Arab League peace envoy Annan.
The plan was aimed at stopping the violence in Syria which has taken the lives of 9,000 people, according to the UN. Russian UN Ambassador Vitaly Churkin said Moscow has always supported Annans peace plan, and that the unanimous decision made by the UNSC reflects constructive work done by its members. Under the influence of Russia and a number of other Security Council
members, the draft resolution has been significantly changed, Churkin told the UNSC. It became more balanced and started to represent reality more adequately. It has taken into account the prerogatives of Syrias government, which will be admitting the UN observer mission. A ceasefire was put in place on Thursday as part of the Annan plan. But sporadic violence was reported after truce took effect, with both government forces and activists claiming they were attacked. On Sunday, just hours after UN vote, the opposition said the army resumed shelling Homs. Clashes were also reported on the Turkey-Syrian border near refugee camps. Damascus insists the Free Syrian Army is using the camps as springboards to launch incursions into Syria.
India warns UK on tough visa norms; Indian IT firms may relocate to other European countries
India Monday warned the UK that its IT majors may relocate their business to other European countries, if the British government insists on tough visa rules which affect Indian IT professionals. The issue came up for discussion during meeting of commerce and industry minister Anand Sharma with UK secretary of state for business, innovation and skills Vince Cable and the chancellor of the exchequer George Osborne. However, Osborne assured Sharma that the British government has decided not to make any change in the intra-company transfers for the next two years. The proposal had upset the Indian IT industry and the government as it meant that the professionals on intra company transfers to UK would be treated prospective immigrants. Sharma said this rule has badly affected the performance of Indian companies operating in the UK. Sharma also expressed concern that this move may force Indian companies, especially IT companies to relocate to other European capital, an official statement said. The Minister also raised the issue of the restrictions imposed on non-EU immigration into Britain which is adversely affecting the operations of
Indian companies here. He specifically referred to the UK Border Agency treating Intra Company Transfers of IT experts, professionals and highly skilled workers as prospective immigrants which has affected has badly affected the performance of Indian companies operating in the UK, it said. Besides, Sharma also expressed concern over the issue that Indian companies who want to acquire UK firms have been facing considerable delay and long legal hassles. He highlighted the concerns of Indian companies who want to visit UK for business meetings and also the long delay in obtaining visa by Indian nationals, it said. He said Indian experts coming to the UK leave the country after completion of their contractual obligations with their employers in the UK and therefore they cannot be treated as economic migrants.
hoteliers and individuals had been voicing concerns over the conduct of PIA crew. The goods stolen from hotels included gowns, towels, kettles and glasses, he said. Some of the key retailers from the Market Street Area of Manchester were regularly detaining PIA
Sultan Hassan said the query had been communicated to the department concerned and its response was awaited. Mr Ellison said that retailers,
crew for shoplifting offences. He said PIAs reputation was at stake because if a hotel filed a complaint, police would have to take action and detain the suspect/s and without a backup / standby crew available the
aircraft might be delayed. Often the relatively low value of stolen property, the fact that your crew have openly disclosed that theyre returning to Pakistan the following day and the fact that the store has recovered its property has meant that police arrests have not been sought. However, given that there may be three PIA crews in the city at one time, the regularity of reports of theft (shoplifting) by PIA crew has increased to a point where positive action has to be taken. He said that following a complaint, an arrest is made, your staff members will be processed at our Custody Suite and, because of them being overseas nationals who we cannot verify at a UK address and thereby assure ourselves that they would answer bail if released, they will be kept in custody overnight and detained to appear in court the following day.
A recent study by an anti-racism campaign group has revealed that the UK plays a leading role in the growth of anti-Islam groups that were behind Norways mass murder. A new report by anti-racism group Hope Not Hate showed that the UK is one of Europes most active countries with regard to the spread of anti-Islam extremism, with 22 anti-Islam groups now operating in the country, reported the Guardian. The report was released one day before the trial of Anders Behring Breivik, Norways antiIslam mass murderer who has confessed to slaying 77 people. All eyes this week will be on what Breivik did last July, but we ignore those people who
NEWS
in Britain saying the killing was to protect Europe from being overwhelmed by Islam.
In July last year, Breivik killed 77 people in a bomb and gun attack in the Norwegian capital Oslo and a nearby island. Despite having confessed to both attacks,
to protect Norway from being overrun by Muslims. An hour before committing the massacre, Breivik emailed leaders of far-right extremists
The findings of researchers at Hope Not Hate come as London mayoral candidate Ken Livingstone said it was Muslims turn now to be discriminated
against asserting Right-wing politicians pander to bigotry. English Defence League (EDL) has been identified by the report as one of the key figures fueling anti-Islam extremism. Last month, a study showed that EDL and other far-right groups in Britain believed it was legitimate and inevitable to take up arms against religious minorities.
It was not surprising that insurgents had launched an attack with the advent of spring, when fighting usually escalates in Afghanistan, he said. We thought something like this may very well happen and it did, he said. Although Afghan President Hamid Karzai had complained about an intelligence failure by Afghan and especially Nato-led troops, the Pentagon spokesman said it
Prime Minister Julia Gillard says Australia will withdraw its troops from Afghanistan earlier than planned. Ms Gillard made the announcement in a speech in Canberra, and ahead of a key Nato conference on Afghanistan in Chicago next month. She said troops would begin pulling out this year and most would be home by the end of 2013 - an election year in Australia. Most international troops are due to leave Afghanistan by the end of 2014. Nato is in the process of handing over security control to local forces - some strategically important areas of the south and east have already been transferred to Afghan forces. There are currently about 130,000 Nato troops serving in Afghanistan from 50 contributing nations, the International Security and Assistance Force says. Ms Gillards announcement, in a speech delivered to the Australian Strategic Policy Institute, came two days after a spate of militant attacks in Kabul lasting for 18 hours left more than 50 people dead. Afghan President Hamid Karzai has linked Sundays militant attacks to intelligence failures, especially on the part of Nato, but praised the performance of Afghan troops. Different picture Ms Gillard said she would raise the plan for Australias troop withdrawal at the Nato conference on Afghanistan in Chicago on 21 May.
The government had previously said most Australian troops would leave in 2014. But the prime minister said withdrawal would begin once Afghans took on responsibility for security in Uruzgan province - where the majority of Australian troops are based. She said she expected an announcement on this from Mr Karzai in coming months, after which the pull-out would take between 12 and 18 months. When this is complete, Australias commitment in Afghanistan will look very different to that which we
have today, Ms Gillard said. Australia would also commit to paying its fair share toward international aid and military funding for Afghan security forces after 2014, she added. It was also prepared to consider maintaining a limited number of troops, she said, and would commit to helping to train Afghan forces. Australia has some 1,550 troops serving in Afghanistan, mainly in the Uruzgan region. Since 2001, a total of 32 Australian soldiers have been killed in the country, according to Australian media. The new timeline would likely see most of the troops back home before the election next year. Ms Gillards minority administration has been slipping in popularity and some observers say Labor could be heading for defeat at the polls.
NEWS
Pressure on water resources looks set to increase over the next few months, so it is more important than ever that consumers, businesses and water abstractors use water wisely, said national drought coordinator Helen Vale. Government statistics show that each person in Britain uses on average 150 litres of water daily,
with the average household using over 100,000 litres of water every year. Britains water shortages may last beyond Christmas with more than half of the UK already affected and 17 new drought zones declared. The droughts are a result of just over 40 per cent average rainfall in February and March and the driest year on record in
2011, a second winter of belowaverage rainfall. The shortages are reminscent of the great drought of 1976, when residents were encouraged to share baths and water was rationed. The 1976 summer droughts were the worst for a century. East Anglias top soil turned to dust, a drought bill was rushed through
The Demoniser of Islam Cost Of Living Abu Qatada appeal blocks deportation
Rises Again
Abu Qatada appeal halts deportation as Home Office accused of arrest blunder Radical clerics lawyers thwart home secretary with 11th-hour appeal to European court of human rights A furious row over missed deadlines has broken out between London and Strasbourg after the European court of human rights dramatically halted an attempt to deport the radical Islamist cleric Abu Qatada less than 24 hours after it was ordered by the home secretary. Theresa May ordered Qatadas arrest and detention on Tuesday in the belief that the three-month deadline for appeals to be lodged against the original Strasbourg ruling on the case on 17 January had passed at midnight on Monday. But it emerged on Wednesday that Qatadas lawyers
Inflation in the UK rose unexpectedly on the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) measure in March, driven by higher food prices and the cost of clothing. CPI inflation rose to 3.5% in March from 3.4% in February, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Retail Prices Index (RPI) inflation fell slightly to 3.6% from 3.7%. The ONS said that food and soft drink prices were 4.6% higher than in March 2011, when deep discounting took place in supermarkets. It cited higher prices for bread, cereals, meat, fruit and vegetables in particular. Clothing, footwear, DVDs and computer games also contributed to the rise.
However, gas and electricity prices were lower than a year ago after energy companies cut tariffs in February this year, whereas they raised them in February 2011. The inflation figures measure the rate at which prices are rising compared with the same month a year ago. The Bank of Englands target for inflation is 2% on the CPI measure. March brought an end to five months of falls in the CPI rate, which had peaked at 5.2% in September last year. The Treasury pointed out that inflation had fallen by a third since then and most commentators expected it to keep falling.
accepted the appeal application from Qatadas lawyers at 11pm on Tuesday night. A spokeswoman said this meant the legal block on the radical clerics deportation to Jordan remained in
to the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights, since the three-month deadline to do so lapsed at midnight on Monday night. His case should be heard in British
had lodged an 11th-hour appeal on Tuesday night, putting a halt on moves by the Home Office to press ahead with deportation proceedings. But the European court of human rights insisted the deadline was actually midnight on Tuesday and
force until a panel of European judges decided whether the case should go to the courts grand chamber on appeal. No date has yet been fixed for that hearing. A Home Office spokesman said: Qatada has no right to refer the case
courts, as the Home Secretary outlined to Parliament yesterday. In the meantime, he remains in custody. A court spokeswoman said the Grand Chamber would now soon decide whether to hear Qatadas appeal. Very few Grand Chamber appeals are successful.
NEWS
and the United States. Officials had already sent 18 people back to their port of origin, while another 60 had refused to leave voluntarily and had been taken to two facilities near Tel Aviv, she said. Hundreds of Israeli police had been deployed at the airport from Saturday night in a bid to prevent the arrival of a wave of foreigners taking part in the Welcome to Palestine fly-in campaign, also known as the flytilla. Organisers of the campaign,
to foot the bill for the activists immediate return home. Most of Europes main airlines quickly fell in line, cancelling the tickets of at least 300 Tel Aviv-bound passengers, and sparking angry protests in several European capitals. Police at the airport also arrested nine Israeli activists who had come to support the visitors. Last year, around 800 people tried to join the campaign, with many blocked from flying by airlines. Another 120 were denied
authorities detention of a group of boats planning to challenge Israels sea blockade of the Gaza Strip. Efforts to send a similar flotilla to Gaza last year ended in violence when Israeli commandos dropped from helicopters onto one of the ships that refused to stop and opened fire, killing nine Turks. Israel says people onboard shot first and attacked with iron bars, a charge they deny. Israeli security forces have been deciding on an individual basis whether travelers identified as
airport Monday and tomorrow bound for the West Bank, Israel Radio said. Called Pacifists Organizers of the pro-Palestinian events said the arriving travelers are pacifists and that rumors of planned protests are false. They will simply tell the truth that they are arriving to transit through Israel on their way to Palestine, according to an e-mailed statement by the Welcome to Palestine movement.
The report, written by the UN special coordinator for Lebanon, Michael Williams, concluded that Israel used disproportionate force against Lebanese demonstrators attempting to enter Israel, the Israeli newspaper Haaretz said on July 6. Israels UN delegation is writing a letter to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in which it will respond to the report, Foreign Ministry spokesman Yigal Palmor said in a phone interview, without giving details.
flesh in pastries
Police in Brazil have arrested three people for allegedly killing at least two women, eating parts of their bodies and using
their flesh to make stuffed pastries known as empanadas which they sold to their neighbours. Police said the three suspects a man, his wife and his mistress belonged to a sect that preached the purification of the world and the reduction of its population. The man, Jorge Beltrao Negromonte, reportedly wrote a 50-page book titled Revelations of a Schizophrenic in which he says he hears voices and is obsessed with the killing of women. The three were arrested in the north-eastern town of Garanhuns and had confessed to the crimes, police said.
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Shah, Chief Minister Syed Mehdi Shah, Kayani and the area Corp Commander. The president during his visit had an personnel. Later he was given a detailed briefing about the activities underway by Force Command Northern Areas (FCNA) Commander Major Gen Ikramul Haq. He directed that all available resources be utilised to further expedite the operation in view of any possible snow slides due to a rise in temperature rise and that the Presidency be kept informed about the progress. President Asif Ali Zardari on Wednesday conducted an aerial survey of the area in
Thursday, 19.04.12
international
President Zardari, Kayani visit Siachen to express solidarity with Pakistan Army
Pakistan wants resolution of Siachen issue: Kayani
Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani has said that Pakistan wants the resolution of the Siachen issue and other matters with India. Kayani, who was speaking to the media during a visit to Giari sector, said that neighbours should live together peacefully. The army chief was visiting the area along with President Asif Ali Zardari, where both were briefed about rescue operations to search for 138 troops and civilians who were buried by a massive avalanche over a week ago. The army chief also said that, We will pay whatever cost we have to for the defence of Pakistan. Siachen sector where Pakistani troops are involved in a frantic search for 138 people, mostly soldiers, buried under dozens of feet of snow following an avalanche that hit an Army camp 11 days ago. The visit to Gyari area by the President, who is the supreme commander of the armed forces, was aimed at expressing solidarity with the troops and monitoring the search and rescue efforts underway at the site. State-run television beamed footage of Zardari, clad in black, conducting a survey of the site of the avalanche in a helicopter along with Army Chief Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani and senior military officials. The President, during his visit, had an aerial view of the search and rescue activities being undertaken by the army personnel, an official statement said. He was given a detailed briefing about the operation by Force Command Northern Areas Commander Maj Gen Ikram-ul-Haq. The President appreciated efforts being made by the Army in the search Continued on page 15 >>
Zardari and Kayani were received by Governor Gilgit-Baltistan Pir Karam Ali
aerial view of the search and rescue activities being undertaken by the army
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The spate of terrorism and targetkilling continued despite tall claims of the government and law enforcement agencies. Three people were killed and two others were injured when armed men opened indiscriminate fire in Karachis Pahar Ganj (in Karachis North Nazimabad Town) area, on Wednesday. Also, two tortured bodies were discovered in Karachis area of North Nazimabad Block M. Moreover, bodies were also found in the areas of New Karachi, Ranchor line, Gulistan-i-Jauhar and in the SITE industrial area. In the first incident, two people Ghulam Serwar and owner of the hotel Sanober Khan were shot dead when unidentified motorcyclists targeted them in Nazimabad near Sakhi Hasan Chorangi. After the incident, terror and horror grippe the area and shops and marketing places were closed. Besides, a man was killed by the firing of unidentified miscreants at Usman Abad in the area of Garden. Likewise, a man was shot dead by unknown terrorists in Liaquat
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Abad while a woman was fell victim to firing in Sohrab Goth. Meanwhile Police raided the houses
making the raid difficult. No arrest has been reported nor has their been any confirmation from the
Habib Jan, PAC men nominated in case It was reported earlier that Habib
policeman in Lyari. They are accused of involvement in the abduction and murder of Constable Raj Mohammad. The constable had reportedly left the station in plainclothes to check deployments within Kalri police remits. Men in a double cabin vehicle and two motorcycles kidnapped him from Maripur road and later threw his body after shooting him in his head. FIR No 91/12 under sections 302/34, 365 and 109 of the Pakistan Penal Code and seven of the AntiTerrorism Act was registered at the
of Peoples Amn Committee (PAC) chief Uzair Jan Baloch and the Friends of Lyari chairperson Habib Jan Baloch in Lyari on Monday. However, unknown armed men opened fire at the police personnel,
police. Following the raid, incidents of aerial firing were reported in different areas of Lyari and two people were injured, including a seven-year old girl.
Jan along with the PAC leadership was booked for the murder of a
apex today, the prime ministers counsel, Barrister Aitzaz Ahsan, said heads of state enjoyed immunity from prosecution in criminal and civil cases in courts the world over, DawnNews reported. Ahsan was addressing a seven-member bench of the court, headed by Justice Nasirul Mulk. During todays hearing, Ahsan concluded his arguments with respect to Article 10-A of the Constitution. Speaking to reporters after the hearings adjournment, Ahsan said that he expected the court to refrain from asking the prime minister to write the letter. The parliament is independent regarding the law and constitution, said Ahsan, adding that the parliament was the only authority that can make constitutional ammendments.
The prime minister was charged with contempt of court on Feb 13 over the governments two-year refusal to write to authorities in Switzerland asking them to re-open corruption cases against President Asif Ali Zardari. In respect of the president, the matter of writing the letter should be delayed. This is not Asif Ali Zardaris problem this matter involves the countrys president, argued the prime ministers lawyer. Moreover, Ahsan reiterated to the reporters his stand that a new bench should be constituted to hear the case. The defence argues that, under the Constitutions Article 10-A, any judge who has charged the defendant is ineligible to hear the same case, therefore the current bench can not continue hearing the case.
An American soldier released photos of a group of a soldiers posing for photos with parts of dead Afghan bombers, Los Angeles Times reported. One of the leaked photos show several U.S. troopers holding the severed legs of Afghan suicide bombers, grinning, with one of them holding both thumbs up. Another depicts two soldiers smiling with a dead body of an Afghan suicide bomber. The photos were taken in February 2010 when the soldiers were sent to an Afghan police station to obtain iris scans and finger prints to identify the bombers on once occasion, and a few months after, when they were sent to identify three dead bombers who were killed while trying to build their own bomb. U.S. Army kicked off a criminal investigation once the Los Angeles Times contacted them with the photos, 18 in total, but
officials initially asked the Times not to publish them. The Times, however, chose to publish a small but representative selection. The soldier who provided the images claimed that almost all of the soldiers in the photos knew people who had been killed or wounded by bombs during their time in Afghanistan. They were frustrated, just pissed off their buddies had been blown up by IEDs, the soldier was quoted as saying by the Times. So they sort of just celebrated. The photos have emerged at a particularly sensitive moment for U.S.-Afghan relations. In January, a video appeared on the Internet showing four U.S. Marines urinating on Afghan corpses. In February, the inadvertent burning of copies of the Koran at a U.S. base triggered riots that left 30 dead and led to the deaths of six Americans. In March, a U.S. Army sergeant
went on a nighttime shooting rampage in two Afghan villages, killing 17. The soldier who provided The Times with a series of 18 photos of soldiers posing with corpses did so on condition of anonymity. He served in Afghanistan with the 82nd Airbornes 4th Brigade Combat Team from Ft. Bragg, N.C. He said the photos point to a breakdown in leadership and discipline that he believed compromised the safety of the troops. He expressed the hope that publication would help ensure that alleged security shortcomings at two U.S. bases in Afghanistan in 2010 were not repeated. The brigade, under new command but with some of the same paratroopers who served in 2010, began another tour in Afghanistan in February. U.S. military officials asked The Times not to publish any of the pictures.
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Worse for the U.S., its occupation has empowered warlords, fueled ethnic and tribal differences, and enriched
a corrupt officialdom so that the Taliban has rebounded. In the past six months things have taken a poisonous turn,
most Americans believed when Obama took office the war was worth fighting, today a large majority of voters want out, and if Obama accelerates the drawdown, hell be in sync with public opinion going into the presidential election The Nation says in its April 2nd editorial. The war also allows the Pentagon to deploy and test new weapons as the pilotless drone aerial attack planes. Is that what President Bush knew when he predicted, This war is going to take a while? Now The New York Times says the Obama administration is considering ending its combat role next year apart from the use of Special Forces to train Afghan troops and conduct raids. But The Nation editorial says thats not good enough and it isnt. This is a senseless, unjust war whose victims largely are the civilians the U.S. purports to help, as well as a war opposed by a majority of Americans. And it is a naked crime against humanity in violation of the UN Charter and should be terminated immediately.
Kabul bomb wave, rockets fired: Taliban targets diplomats & NATO
At least a dozen large explosions, followed by rocket fire and automatic gunfire, struck Kabul on Sunday in what appears to be a coordinated attack on the diplomatic area and the NATO base. The Taliban says its behind the offensive. Afghanistan International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) confirmed multiple attacks on seven locations across Kabul but gave no details on the casualties. A parliamentary spokesman told Reuters that rockets were fired at Afghanistans parliament and Russian embassy buildings. Russian diplomats later denied the embassy was under fire. Several attackers have attempted to enter the Afghan parliament in Kabul, a local official said. They were driven back by security forces and had taken cover in the nearby building. Residents across the city also reported explosions near the parliament building. A witness says a rocket-propelled was killed during in insurgency, Al Arabiya reports. Four suicide bombers attempted to attack Jalalabad airport in eastern Afghanistan an airfield where US troops are based, US airfield commander said. The Taliban declared attacks also took place in eastern Paktia and Logar provinces and claimed they had attacked a police training base in eastern Afghanistan. Afghan Taliban spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid has threatened the attacks are the beginning of insurgent spring offensive. An Afghan National Army soldier keeps watch near the Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) as a NATO helicopter flies over the site of an attack in Jalalabad province April 15, 2012. Afghan police head to the scene of an attack in Kabul A Afghan National Army soldier runs near the Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) as smoke rises from the site of an attack in Jalalabad province April 15,
grenade hit the residence of the British ambassador in Kabul. Suicide bombers are said to have
direction of the German embassy and several other buildings, while sirens could be heard throughout
A Turkish military base on the outskirts of Kabul is reported to have come under mortar
taken over a Kabul hotel known to be used by foreigners, launching rocket and rifle fire. Smoke is billowing from the
the neighbourhood. Taliban claim armed suicide bombers also launched an attack on NATO headquarters.
attack. Turkish and Greek forces responded with heavy-caliber machine gunfire. Police say at least one attacker
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statement that he along with Faruq and Enamul was going to Suranjits house that night. The APS [Faruq] picked me up on the way. We had some official business to do with the minister, Mridha told reporters, emerging from the office of Railway Director General Abu Taher who is heading the probe committee. Asked about the ministers claim that 10:00pm was his bedtime and that there was no question of meeting them late that night, the GM said:
The minister remains busy in various activities. There is nothing wrong going to his house at night for official purpose. Faruq, who was summoned by a one-member committee probing his involvement in the scam, did not show up yesterday. Instead, he sent a statement by an aide. The content of the statement could not be known. On April 11, Faruq deposited Tk 70 lakh in his account with Mercantile Banks Dhanmondi branch. The
Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan has expressed his governments interests in jointventure investments in energy sector, particularly in oil and gas exploration. Erdrogan showed the interest during the official talks with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at his office here Thursday evening. The two countries agreed to deepen their ties in areas of economy, trade and commerce, culture, and agriculture. Meanwhile, Hasina yesterday said Bangladesh and Turkey will sign Free Trade Agreement (FTA) soon. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina lays wreath at the mausoleum of Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, founder of modern Turkey. She reached the Turkish capital of Ankara on Wednesday. The premier said this while addressing a business meeting with TUSKON, a leading business group in Turkey, at Hotel Sheraton here. On Thursdays official talks, Hasina and Erdogan discussed the entire range of bilateral relations, and agreed to support each other in the UN, and in regional and international forums. Erdogan praised the achievements of the Bangladesh government in promoting education, rule of law, and democracy under the dynamic leadership of Hasina. He hoped that Bangladesh would be a middle income country by 2015. We have attached special importance to our bilateral relations. We have agreed to give support to each others candidates in multilateral institutions, including in the UN Security Council, Hasina said at a joint press conference after
central bank has already opened an investigation into the abnormal deposit. Enamul, the security commandant, will be asked today to appear before the two-member probe body with his written statement tomorrow. Yesterdays press conference was the third by Suranjit since the scam came to light. He left the press meet after sketchily answering a few questions. Replying to a query, Suranjit said the action was taken against the trio based on the statement Mridha and Faruq gave to the body as well as the allegations raised against them in the media. An APS is a privileged post. I myself decided to dismiss him. I am not a judge that I will try him. The law will take its own course, said Suranjit, looking upset.
the official talks. She said that agreements signed between the two countries would further bolster bilateral relations in economic, commercial, cultural, agricultural, and other fields. Turkey would soon join the International Jute Study Group (IJSG), the only UN organisation headquartered in Bangladesh. It would also finance Bangladesh in the construction of several hundred
of government scholarships for Bangladeshi students and assist in restoring the historical Shahi Jame Masjid at Anderkilla in Chittagong. Hasina expressed her happiness over the signing of a Sister-City twining agreement linking the spiritual capitals of Konya in Turkey and Sylhet in Bangladesh. Erdogan expressed his satisfaction saying that the defence cooperation between the two countries is
cooperation between the two countries. Of the two MoUs, one is on scientific and technical cooperation in the field of agriculture, and the other is for cultural, scientific and educational exchange programme. A letter of intent has also been signed between the two countries under which Turkey will join IJSG. During the one-to-one meeting with Erdogan, Hasina hailed the
community healthcare clinics, she added. The two countries have been working hard to explore the full potentials of our bilateral relations in different fields, she said. Hasina mentioned that the Bangladesh Consulate General office has been established in Istanbul this month to cater to the needs of businesspersons and investors from both countries. During the official talks, Turkey has agreed to increase the number
growing. After the official talks, Bangladesh and Turkey signed seven instruments to further bolster cooperation in economic, cultural, agricultural, and other fields. An agreement has been signed for reciprocal promotion and protection of investment while the other has been inked for mutual abolition of visas for the diplomatic, service/ official, and special passport holders. The third agreement is on customs
Turkish governments efforts for strengthening democracy and discouraging unconstitutional takeover. She also admired Turkeys political, legislative, judicial and administrative steps for institutionalising democracy, human rights, and rule of law that have set up an example in the region. She hoped that none of the countries would experience military rule in the future. Later, Hasina attended a state
banquet hosted in her honour by the Turkish premier at his official residence. Earlier, on her arrival at the office of Erdogan, Hasina was given a guard of honour by a smartly turned out contingent of the Turkish armed forces. Foreign Minister Dipu Moni, Industries Minister Dilip Barua, Ambassador at-Large M Ziauddin, Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad, among others, accompanied Hasina during the official talks. FTA BETWEEN TWO COUNTRIES SOON During the meeting with TUSKON yesterday, Hasina said her government has initiated plans to make Bangladesh the hub of all economic activities in South Asia and South East Asian regions, encompassing China and India. Mentioning that Bangladesh and Turkey will sign FTA soon, she said her countrys export to Turkey has so far been limited to a few products like readymade garments and jute yarn. We can offer many more. You can import ceramic products, leather and leather products, frozen shrimp, jute goods, handicrafts, bicycle, and many other products from Bangladesh at competitive prices, she said. In the last few years, she said the Bangladesh government has been developing road, rail, sea, and air connectivity in the region that would connect Bangladesh to a market of over two billion people. She urged the TUSKON to take advantage of the phenomenal growth of pharmaceutical industry in Bangladesh to provide quality medicines at better prices to the Turkish people.
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to tag them with identification marks on the ears, the gup said. Jangsas Sonam Norzin said they are discussing how to tag the yaks. Its not going to be an easy task, but were thinking of sending more people to locate the animals, tag
and photograph them, he said, Meanwhile, the gup said that, if the male yaks were good for breeding, they would consult the animal husbandry officials and distribute
the yaks to the people of Chokhor. The non-compliance of rules, while transporting animals, happened because they had to move the yaks in a rush, Sonam Norzin said. Jangsa tshogpa had earlier deported the saved yaks to Boelangdrak in Wangduephodrang, but chose Shingkhar after they heard that the animals in Boelangdrak were not treated well by the people. Since the tshogpa is facing financial problems, Sonam Norzin said he had verbally talked to the director of livestock regarding the fine imposed on them. BAFRA is however firm on its stand and said the Jangsa tshopga had not bothered to adhere to the Livestock Act 2001, and Rules and Regulations 2008, while transporting the animals.
When Dr. Robert Stein arrived in the capital city of Bhutan as a volunteer in 1990, he found people with infected bones, children with severe disease and not a single Bhutanese-trained orthopedic doctor who could help. For two decades, the Nashville orthopedic surgeon returned to the Himalayan nation, staying for a month at a time in a cottage where rocks had to be placed over the drains to prevent varmints from creeping in. He treated patients and trained doctors. Now, 22 years later, there are five Bhutanese orthopedic surgeons where there had been none, and technicians are sent to remote regions in the country to provide care. Steins front-line work as Bhutans first orthopedic volunteer is being recognized today in Washington, D.C., where he is among nine
recipients of a Golden Apple Award from the nonprofit Health Volunteers Overseas. The head of the orthopedic hospital in Bhutan nominated Stein for the award, given in conjunction with World Health Day to recognize the educational contributions of volunteers. It was a complete surprise, Stein said. To me, the real payoff is seeing the growth of the program and knowing that its made an impact. When we go through life, we want to leave something positive behind. Hes always had a burning desire to teach in a Third World country, he said, wanting to increase access to quality orthopedic care. He began by researching which countries could benefit most from such services. He made a cold call to the Royal Bhutanese Mission to the
finding a proper solution. We have to remember the lessons we have learned and work towards it; hopefully we will now change our habits of spending unnecessarily. Meanwhile, the government has been working together with the RMA and the private sectors for plans and policies to tackle the crisis. He mentioned that Bhutan first faced a rupee crisis in 1966 when the first bank in Bhutan went bankrupt in Phuentsholing. Talking about measures to address the economic crisis Bhutan is facing, he said the government will be stopping the import of vegetables from May 5, 2012 and urged the farmers across Bhutan to meet the needs of the people. He also said that the government would be addressing the drug shortage. He offered his apologies to the people for the mistakes the government had committed. Towards the end of his address, he mentioned about the success of the recent conference on well being and happiness at the UN head quarters. He said regardless of Bhutan being an independent country it is vital for the country to have appropriate recognition in the international community for its sovereignty.
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While admitting that the Indian economy has been facing difficulties, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Saturday expressed confidence that his government would overcome the challenges with great determination. Speaking at the conclusion of a panel discussion here on Challenges of economic reforms in India, in which he was the chief guest, Dr. Singh said: There are difficulties. Life will not be worth living if there are no difficulties. I am confident, with great determination, we will overcome. The panel discussion was organised by the Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) to mark the update and presentation
more kindly treatment of foreign investors with respect to the budget proposal of taxation with retrospective effect. The tax
The issue of opening bank branches in each others country would also be taken up on priority. It was decided during the bilateral meeting between Commerce Minister Anand Sharma and the visiting Pakistan Trade Minister, Makhdom Amin Fahim, that the officials of both countries should fast-track the ongoing process. It was also noted that the Central banks of both countries were examining issues relating to opening bank branches in each others country. SAFTA lists During the discussions, both sides agreed to draw a road map for further reductions in the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA)
Inhospitable weather on Monday forced President Asif Ali Zardari to cancel his trip to Gyari, an avalanche tragedy in Siachen, as day 10 posed serious climatic difficulties for rescuers. President Zardari was planning to visit the Gyari sector where an avalanche struck at a Pakistan Army camp on April 7 and buried 138 people including troops and civilians to inspect the rescue operation being spearheaded by the military with assistance from international rescuers. The Presidents staff was informed about the deteriorating weather conditions in Skardu and the visit was called off. Spokesperson to the President Senator Farhatullah Babar confirmed that the president was due to visit Gyari to express solidarity with the defenders of the frontiers but his trip was cancelled due to unsuitable weather conditions. Similarly, Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani is also waiting for the approval of aviation authorities to give weather clearance for a trip to
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the Siachen Glacier. Meanwhile, a group comprising 46 members from national and international media teams that was set to fly for the rescue site could not land at the Skardu airport on Monday due to harsh weather. Toxic gases Tuesday hampered the search for 138 people buried by an avalanche at a high-altitude Pakistan army camp, as teams from the United States and Norway arrived at the site to help operations.
A huge wall of snow crashed into the remote Siachen Glacier base high in the mountains in disputed Kashmir more than a week ago, smothering an area of one square kilometre (a third of a square mile). Rescuers have dug tunnels in the hard mass of snow and ice to try to reach the buried soldiers and civilians at the Giari base, but toxic gases have built up inside one of them, the military said in a statement. A rise in the temperature has
increased the risk of further snow slides, the statement said, forcing workers on the site to take extra precautions. Specialist teams from Norway and the United States arrived at Giari, while Swiss and German teams have returned home after helping the efforts. Search teams are looking for the trapped soldiers and civilians at six different points on the site, around 4,000 metres (13,000 feet) up in the
mountains. More than 450 rescuers are working at the site near the de facto border with India in the militarised region of Kashmir, though experts have said there is virtually no chance of finding any survivors. Kashmir has been the cause of two wars between India and Pakistan and the rivals fought over Siachen in 1987, though guns on the glacier have largely fallen silent since a peace process began in 2004.
A 1989 agreement exists, which settled the principles for the resolution of Siachen conflict, Zehra Akbari, Director General (South Asia) at the Foreign Office, said at a media briefing on rescue operations in avalanche-hit Gayari. Pakistan reminded India on Saturday of a 1989 agreement for resolving the Siachen dispute and asked New Delhi to honour it. A 1989 agreement exists, which settled the principles for the resolution of Siachen conflict, Zehra Akbari, Director General (South Asia) at the Foreign Office, said at a media briefing on rescue operations in avalanche-hit Gayari. Time has come for the implementation of that agreement. It has to be resolved to prevent such mishaps from happening again, she said. Last weekends massive avalanche in Gayari, which buried the armys battalion headquarters in the region trapping 135 troops and civilians inside it, brought the conflict over Siachen into focus, with people on both sides of the border questioning the strategic value of the territory and calling for withdrawal of troops from the worlds highest battlefield where relentless sub-zero conditions have killed more people than the actual combat. Ms Akbari said Pakistan had been persistently asking for resolution of the issue. She was referring to the
Pakistan-India joint statement issued on June 17, 1989, after a meeting between the two defence secretaries. The statement said: There was agreement by both sides to work towards a comprehensive settlement, based on redeployment of forces to reduce the chances of conflict, avoidance of the use of force and determination of future positions on the ground so as to conform with the Simla Agreement and to ensure durable peace in the Siachen area. The army authorities of both sides will determine these positions. The agreement was made possible because of back-channel contacts between then prime ministers Benazir Bhutto and Rajiv Gandhi. The 1989 agreement, which was soon afterwards denied by India, was lacking in three aspects which point the troops should pull back to, how to ascertain the existing ground position
and monitoring of demilitarisation. Pakistan has, during various sessions on Siachen, proposed that troops return to pre-1972 positions, as agreed in the Simla Agreement, but India has insisted on authenticating the actual ground position line both on maps as well as on the ground. Indians believe that accepting Pakistani proposals will imply a surrender of the glacier that has been under Indian control since 1984. It is said that the Indian army has been at the forefront in preventing a resolution of the issue. At the back of Indians mind, an Indian source said, was a fear that China would benefit from any settlement because of its strong ties with Pakistan. American diplomatic cables, revealed by WikiLeaks, had also pointed out to the Indian armys resistance to a resolution of the dispute. The cables cited the China factor,
and rescuers had been able to reach the ground level at two points, but did not find anyone. Digging at other points, he added, was continuing. He admitted that chances of finding any survivors were slim, advising prayers for a miracle. He expressed the hope that rescue efforts would pick up pace in coming days after an expected improvement in weather. Maj-Gen Nadeem said a new battalion headquarters had been raised at Goma to replace the one buried under the avalanche. The new headquarters has been properly staffed and equipped. It is fully operative now.
President Zardari, Kayani visit Siachen to express solidarity with Pakistan Army
Continued from page 9 >> operation and paid tributes to the soldiers, saying the country was indebted to these sons of the soil and prays for them from the very core of their hearts. He directed officials to use all available resources to expedite the operation in view of any possible snow slides due to temperature rise. Pakistan should take initiative to end Siachen war: Nawaz Calling on governments of Pakistan and India to withdraw their forces from Siachen, PML-N President Nawaz Sharif said the first step in this direction should be taken by Pakistan. Speaking to the media, Nawaz Sharif said that Pakistan and India were spending billions of rupees on defence, which could be diverted for the prosperity of people. He urged Islamabad and New Delhi to resolve the Siachen dispute through a dialogue. Offering tributes to the soldiers buried under snow due to an avalanche in Siachen, the PML-N chief said the entire nation was praying for the safe recovery of the troops.
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The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday appeared heading to capture the three newly-created municipal corporations in the capital, one with help from independents, cruising ahead of Congress in the civic body polls. While it was poised to win North and South Corporations comfortably, in the East, the BJP looks to be emerging as the single largest party and is confident of getting the support of independents to cross the midway mark. With several of its candidates winning, the saffron brigade also clocked leads in 138 of total 272 wards, while the Congress is winning in 75 after first few hours of counting of votes. Though BJP is set to win the civic body polls, the main opposition Congress has also made significant gains as the party is expected to win 15 seats more than it total tally in 2007 elections Of the 206 results declared by State Election Commission out of 272 wards in all three corporations till 4.50pm, BJP has bagged 106 while Congress has won 60 seats. BSP has bagged 14 seats, RLD three, NCP and SP two each and JD(U) and INLD one each while 17 Independents have also won. In South Delhi Corporation, BJP has won or is leading in as many as 43 out of the 104 wards while Congress candidates are ahead in 29 seats. Interestingly, the Bahujan Samajwadi Party (BSP) is ahead in 7 seats, while others are surging slowly in 25 seats. BJP, which is leading in 60 seats, has
MCD election results 2012: BJP heads for victory, Cong faces rout
a comfortable edge over the main opposition Congress in North Delhi as the latter is ahead in 28 seats for which trends are available. In East Delhi Corporation, BJP is surging ahead in 35 seats, while Congress is said to be trailing as it leads in 18 seats only. North Delhi: In North Delhi Municipal Corporation, the trends are available for all 104 seats where the BJP has won or leading in 60 seats, the principle opposition Congress party is ahead with 28, the Bahujan Samajwadi Party (BSP) is ahead in four seats while independents are leading in twelve seats. East Delhi: Out of 64 wards, BJP is said to be leading in 35 seats, Congress in 18 and BSP is moving ahead in three seats, while independents are also reported to be going strong in nine seats. South Delhi: In the South Delhi Municipal Corporation also, the trends are available for total 104 seats. Here, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is leading in 43 seats, the main opposition Congress party is ahead with 29, while the Bahujan Samajwadi Party (BSP) has gained lead in seven seats. Independents here are leading in twenty five seats. South has the highest number of 904 candidates followed by North (885) and East (634). Prominent winners The first result to be declared was that of Shahdara (SC) in East Corporation where BJPs Balbir Singh defeated Congress Jagdish by a margin of 1,28 (BJP) is also leading in Mukherjee Nagar. Among prominent candidates who have won the election in their respective wards are: Dharmveer (Congress) from RK Puram, Radhey Shyam (BJP) from Vasant Vihar, Tulsi Ram from Dharampura, BJPs Deputy Mayor Anil Sharma has also won with a comfortable margin. Pramila Tukas, who contested as an independent candidate from Munirka, has also tasted success. Elaborate arrangements by SEC The Delhi State Election Commission had set up counting centres at 32 places across the city for counting of votes for the recently trifurcated Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) polls.
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votes. Singh polled 6,809 votes while his nearest rival got 5,571 votes. BJPs Subhash Arya, the Leader of undivided MCD House, trumped his rival from Congress Manmohan Singh Kochar. MCD Leader of Opposition Jai Kishan Sharma (Congress) lost his electoral battle from Najafgarh. Delhi BJP chief Vijender Guptas wife Shobha has won in Rohini Central defeating her Congress rival Dr Monica Puri. Delhi Mayor Rajni Abbi
A total of 2,423 candidates contested from 272 wards, which saw a record 58 percent turnout on Sunday. The outcome of the municipal polls is seen as crucial for Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit and Congress as well as opposition BJP with leaders believing that it could be an indicator for what is in store for the Assembly polls which is 18 months away. BJP, which has 164 councilors in the undivided MCD against Congress
67 and BSPs 17, harped on alleged corruption by Dikshit government, while Congress targeted the saffron party on its inefficient and corrupt administration in MCD. The run-up to the polls also saw some embarrassment for BJP when one of its candidates, a sitting councilor, was arrested for allegedly murdering a party worker, who was opposed to him. A total of 1.12 crore eligible voters exercised their franchise in the polls which include 42.95 lakh voters in North Delhi Municipal Corporation, 42.67 lakh voters in South Delhi Municipal Corporation and 27.16 lakh voters in East Delhi Municipal Corporation. There are 104 each wards in South and North Corporations and 64 in the East, of which 138 seats are reserved for women. South has the highest number of 904 candidates followed by North (885) and East (634). The main contenders are BJP and Congress, but smaller parties like Samajwadi Party and BSP are giving sleepless nights to them. Though in public both the parties make claims about clean sweep in the elections, leaders in Congress and BJP are keeping their fingers crossed as the polls are nearing. Presence of rebels and independents are also keeping both the parties on their toes as they believe that they could play spoilsport for them. The two parties have also expelled a number of leaders to send a strong message to their cadre.
The Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG) has said that the National Enquiry Commission established by President Dr Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik to probe the circumstances surrounding the transfer of power is not independent or impartial. The Group further noted that the Commission had failed to gain sufficient support from the various interlocutors of the Maldives and urged the government to re-assess the composition of the team to ensure that it is independent, credible and impartial. CMAG agreed that, should the composition and terms of reference of the Commission not be amended within four weeks in a manner that is generally acceptable and enhances its credibility, CMAG would be compelled to consider further and stronger measures. The CMAG had convened in London today to consider its response to the situation in Maldives and Fiji, received a report
Nasheed, the nations first democratically elected leader who came to power in 2008, has refused to recognise the new government claiming that he had been ousted in a coup d etat and demanded
protests in the capital Male. The Group had met in an extraordinary meeting in relation to the Maldives on February 22 following the now controversial resignation of Nasheed and called
for the All Party Roadmap Talks initiated by the new government to be held without interruption and to broaden the areas of discussion to include the grievances of all relevant parties. CMAG reaffirmed its support for Commonwealth assistance to strengthen democratic processes, institutions and culture in Maldives. In this context, it expressed support for the Commonwealth Secretariats technical assistance for strengthening for the long term the capacity of the judicial sector, as agreed with the authorities in Maldives. The Group further called for the capacity of the Parliament to be strengthened and welcomed continued collaboration between the Commonwealth and other international partners, including the United Nations and the InterParliamentary Union, in the consideration of further assistance for Maldives.
At least eight members of the Shia Hazara community and a policeman were killed in three attacks here on Saturday.
After the attacks and subsequent violence, the administration called out Frontier Corps in the city. The paramilitaries started taking up positions at important places in the evening. Seven people were killed in firing on two vehicles on Brewery Road and Subzal Road, DIG (Operation) Qazi Wahid told Dawn. Saturdays killings took the number of Hazara Shias killed in Quetta and its vicinity during the past fortnight to 26. The Hazara Democratic Party has called upon the community to observe a strike on Sunday to register outrage over the unabated killings. Chief Minister Nawab Aslam Raisani, who was in Islamabad, expressed sorrow over the deaths and ordered officials concerned to take all possible steps for arresting the culprits. The Balochistan governor had earlier this week criticised the provincial government, warning that the army could be called out if the administration failed to protect life and property. Soon after Saturdays attacks, angry protesters blocked the road that leads from Quetta to Hazara town. They torched a private van and a motorcycle in Bolan Medical College Hospital. A student was injured when unknown people fired in the air. Shots were fired at police, too. The protesters also burnt tyres at different points in Quetta and some men riding motorcycles fired blank shots, triggering panic. Shops and business centres were closed and people started rushing home as fear overtook the city after masked men riding motorcycles fired indiscriminately in shopping areas. The terrorists first struck at Killi Ibrahimzai, where four motorcyclists fired at a yellow and at the Bolan Medical College Hospital, where bodies were placed for identification. The enraged crowd pelted vehicles with stones and blocked roads. The demonstrators set on fire a van and a motorcycle parked in the hospital and also attacked some shops. Groups of protesters burnt tyres at Meezan Chowk and in some other places across the Balochistan capital. However, security personnel dispersed them after firing shots in the air. Home Secretary Naseebullah Bazai immediately called out the Frontier Corps to control the situation. Ten FC battalions have been deployed in and around Quetta to restore peace and order, official sources said. Heavy contingents of FC, police and Balochistan Constabulary patrolled the road and streets of the provincial capital.
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cab that was taking six people to Quetta from Hazara town. They opened fire on the car from two directions, killing all the six passengers. They suffered bullet wounds to their heads, police said. In the other shooting, two men riding a motorcycle attacked another vehicle on Subzal Road. One man was killed on the spot and another was critically injured.
He died in the Combined Military Hospital. A policeman, Mohammad Panha, was shot dead in Shalkot, near Quetta, when he was going to his place of duty. According to some TV reports, some suspects were taken into custody. OUTRAGE: Members of the Hazara community converged on Brewery Road in their hundreds
A harrowing photo of a young girl standing screaming in the middle of a pile of bodies after a suicide bombing in Afghanistan has won its photographer a Pulitzer Prize. Massoud Hossaini won the breaking news photography award for his picture, which shows young Tarana Akbari crying after the attack on the crowded Abul Fazel Shrine on 6 December. The Pulitzer committee described the image as heartbreaking. Mr Hossaini said he was glad he had become a voice for the Afghan people.
When I could stand up, I saw that everybody was around me on the ground, really bloody. I was really, really scared, said the girl, whose name means melody, and who is now aged 11. Painful memories She still has nightmares about the day, and no longer wears her green dress, which was drenched in blood from the attack, AFP reported. Over 70 people were killed in the blast, which coincided with the Shia Muslim festival of Ashura, and was the deadliest suicide
Authorities in Nepal today arrested some 12 people in a stepped up crackdown on casinos allowing locals to gamble, police said. It is illegal to allow Nepalese to gamble in the eight casinos being operated in the capital Kathmandu. Casinos have been seeking to attract locals amid decline in Indians arriving in Kathmandu due to security fears, frequent police raids and opening of casinos in Goa, Macau and other East Asian countries. In effect, local visitors dominate the
eight casinos operating in Kathmandu and two in Pokhara, the tourist hub of western Nepal. According to sources, more than 80 per cent of the visitors are now locals. The police arrested seven locals from Casino Royale situated in Hotel Yak and Yeti at Durbar Marg in the heart of Kathmandu. The police recovered Rs. 22,000 in cash, coins worth Rs. 15,000 and cheque amounting to Rs. 350,000 from them. Five Nepalese were arrested from Casino Everest located at Hotel Everest.
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Malik should dissociate from official duties for fair probe: SC, * Court asks govt why UN report has not been published * Says it is unfortunate PPP-led govt is opposing fresh FIR
The Supreme Court expressed surprise on Monday over PPPs reluctance to register a second FIR in the Benazir Bhutto assassination case. The Supreme Court (SC) on Monday said Interior Minister Rehman Malik should dissociate himself from his official post until the completion of probe into Benazir Bhutto (BB) murder case. A three-member bench, comprising Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry, Justice Khilji Arif Hussain and Justice Tariq Parvez, is hearing a plea filed by Chaudhry Aslam, former protocol officer to the slain premier. Aslam has requested the SC to lodge a fresh first information report (FIR) in the case. The court inquired from the deputy attorney general why had the federal government not published the United Nations (UN) investigation report in the BB murder case. The court also observed that it was unfortunate that BBs party was in power, but it was opposing the registration of the fresh FIR. Nation is seeking reply about the murderers of its great leader, it added. Aslam sought the registration of the second FIR against 12 respondents, including former president Gen (r) Pervez Musharraf, former Punjab chief minister Pervaiz Elahi, Interior Minister Rehman Malik, former law minister Babar Awan, then acting interior minister Lt General (r) Hamid Nawaz, former Intelligence Bureau director general Ijaz Shah, former interior secretary Kamal Shah, former Interior Ministry spokesman Brigadier (r) Javed Iqbal Cheema and former Rawalpindi DCO Irfan Elahi. In his para-wise comments, Malik said that all accused had been arrested, so there was no need of registering the second FIR in this case. The court has adjourned the hearing until April 28.
Militants attack Bannu Pakistan calls for jail, 400 inmates escape Siachen review
strongholds. The escaped prisoners may now rejoin the fight, giving momentum and a propaganda boost to a movement that has killed thousands of Pakistani officials and ordinary citizens since 2007. Dozens of militants attacked Bannus central jail in the early hours of the morning, and over 300 prisoners have escaped, senior police official Mir Sahib Jan told Reuters. There was intense gunfire, and rocketpropelled grenades were also used. Paramilitary troops and security forces surrounded Bannu Central Jail. Of a total 944 prisoners in the jail, 384 escaped, said another police official. One of the prisoners who escaped from jail was on death row for involvement in an assassination attempt on former Pakistani president Pervez Musharraf, a police official said. There was an inmate named Adnan Rasheed, who was a dangerous prisoner. He was a mastermind in (one of the attacks) on Musharraf. These people came for him and took another 383 people too, said the official. Militants apparently targeted six jail blocks in the attack, he said. The Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, or Taliban Movement of Pakistan, is fighting to topple the US-backed Islamabad government. Major suicide bombings have eased in recent months, suggesting either security crackdowns have weakened the group, or it has changed tactics.
Nearly 400 prisoners escaped from a jail in northwest Pakistan early on Sunday after it was attacked by militants armed with guns and rocket propelled grenades, a senior police official said. The raid by more than 100 fighters was a dramatic display of the strength of the insurgency gripping the nucleararmed country. The attackers, armed with automatic weapons and rocket-propelled grenades, stormed the prison before dawn in the city of Bannu close to the Afghan border, said police officer Shafique Khan. They used explosives and hand grenades to knock down the main gates and two walls, said Bannu prison superintendent Zahud Khan. They were carrying modern and heavy weapons, said Zahud Khan. They fired rockets. Once inside the building, the attackers headed straight to the area of the
prison where death-row prisoners were being kept, he said. They fought with guards for around two hours, setting part of the prison on fire before freeing the 380 inmates, including at least 20 very dangerous Taliban militants, said Shafique. Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan, which has close links to al Qaeda, said its fighters mounted the assault, which triggered clashes. Several people were wounded. We have freed hundreds of our comrades in Bannu in this attack. Several of our people have reached their destinations, others are on their way, said Taliban spokesman Asimullah Mehsud. The claim could not be immediately verified. If the Taliban freed the prisoners, it could deal a psychological blow to Pakistani security forces, who say they have made gains against militants through a series of attacks on their
Pakistan and India should take a lesson from the recent avalanche that buried 138 people in the Siachen sector and review troop deployments on the Himalayan glacier, Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar says. Pakistan and India should take a lesson from the incident at Gyari camp. They will have to review the deployment of forces at Siachen, Khar said while addressing a ceremony held after a polo match in Lahore. An avalanche slammed into a Pakistan Army battalion headquarters at Gyari in the Siachen sector on April 7, burying 127 soldiers and 11 civilians. Pakistani troops have been engaged in a frantic search for the buried men at the site of the disaster. Pakistani media analysts and politicians have called for a review of the deployment of forces at Siachen, where soldiers from the two countries have been engaged in standoff since 1984. The guns have largely been silent since late 2003, when the two sides put in
place a ceasefire along the frontiers in Jammu and Kashmir, and more troops have died due to the adverse weather than combat. Khar further said Pakistan wants peaceful relations with India and President Asif Ali Zardaris day-long visit to the neighbouring country on April 8 had helped in improving ties between the two countries. She expressed concern at attacks by the Taliban in several cities of Afghanistan today, including the capital Kabul. Pakistan condemns the attacks in Afghanistan, she said. Khar also welcomed the Bangladesh Cricket Boards announcement that its team would tour Pakistan later this month. The decision will go a long way to pave for other cricketing nations to come here, she said. The tour by Bangladesh will be the first by a foreign team since international cricket in Pakistan was suspended after a terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan team in Lahore in March 2009.
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many things but all were rejected for the sake of the protection and
Abdulla Jabir of Jumhooree Party (JP), and Ahmed Shareef of Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) have won the seat for the Kaashidhoo and the Thimarafushi constituencies in the Peoples Majlis in the byelections held yesterday. According to the provisional results of yesterdays Peoples Majlis byelections announced by the Elections Commission last night Jumhooree Party Deputy Leader Abdulla Jabir won the Kaashidhoo constituency with 1107 votes while his rival, opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) candidate Ahmed Haleem Dhonbileh got only 919 votes. Opposition in Maldives says polls bolster its early vote call A new government in the Maldives has won two by-elections, according to results on Sunday, defeating the party of former President Mohamed Nasheed who was unseated in February and, his party said, bolstering its call for an early presidential poll. The ouster of Nasheed, the islands first democratically elected president, dented the Indian Ocean archipelagos reputation as a laid-back luxury tourist paradise. Nasheed and his party say the new government of President Mohamed Waheed Hassan Manik is illegitimate and they have been demanding an early presidential election. Maldives stages first vote after coup claims * 6,000 voters eligible to cast ballots * By-polls called after countrys
Former President Nasheed to be charged over arrest of Criminal Court Chief Judge
were called after the countrys highest court recently disqualified the MPs elected in elections in 2009. Former president Mohamed Nasheed, who stepped down in February, has claimed that he was forced to resign following a military coup which was backed by his then deputy, Waheed, who went on to succeed him. Waheed has denied allegations that he was involved in any coup and has
highest court disqualified MPs elected in 2009 polls President Mohamed Waheed of the Maldives, accused of seizing power in a military-backed coup, faced his first popularity test on Saturday when voting was held in two key byelections. Waheed is not directly fielding candidates but has publicly endorsed members of his coalition partners for the Thimarafushi and Kaashidhoo constituencies. The two islands outside the capital, Male, will elect two representatives to the 77-member Peoples Majlis, or parliament, the elections commission said. Nearly 6,000 voters were eligible to cast ballots Saturday. The by-elections
ordered a government investigation into Nasheeds controversial exit from office. Results of Saturdays polls, which were being keenly contested by Nasheeds Maldivian Democratic Party, were expected late Saturday, officials said. Colombo-based diplomats, who are also accredited to Male, said Saturdays vote was a crucial test for Waheed who has promised early presidential elections to end a political crisis after Nasheeds resignation. Nasheed became the first democratically elected leader in the Maldives following the nations inaugural multi-party elections in October 2008. afp
The Maldives Police Service has today sent the case of the arrest of Criminal Court Chief Judge Abdullah Mohamed to the Prosecutor Generals Office. Minivan News understands that under the submitted case, Former President Mohamed Nasheed is expected to face charges for his alleged role in ordering the detention of the judge earlier this year. The countrys judges and their conduct became a major focus for former President Nasheed in the run up to him being replaced by Dr Waheed in February, leading to eventual calls for international assistance on the matter. Nasheed had at the time raised concerns over allegations of perjury and increasingly blatant collusion between senior judicial figures and politicians loyal to the former autocratic President, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom. Charges However, it is the former president who now himself faces criminal charges relating to the detention of the judge. According to sources linked to the case, the charges levied against Nasheed relate to the violation of article 46 of the Constitution of the Republic of Maldives, and for violation of Article 12 clause (a) of Judges Act (Act no 13/2010).
A police official today confirmed that the case regarding the judges attention had been submitted to the Prosecutor Generals Office today. Today at around 9:30 am, we have submitted the case [the arrest of Judge Abdulla] to the prosecutor general. We have completed all the necessary investigations required, the police official said. An official from the Prosecutor Generals Office also confirmed that the charges sent to it by police were against Nasheed. However, the official refused to explain the exact nature of the charges, stating that the case was still being assessed by their legal team. Spokesperson for Nasheeds Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) MP Imthiyaz Fahmy said that he would not comment on the issue until after a party meeting scheduled to discuss the issue was held Judge arrest Judge Abdulla was arrested by the MNDF on January 16 this year, in compliance with a police request. The judges whereabouts were not revealed until January 18. The MNDF had acknowledged receipt but not replied to Supreme Court orders to release the judge.
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law, prioritize victims rights and are able to operate with full
Claiming that they have narrowed down differences on the outstanding constitutional issues during their closed-door talks at Hattiban Big wigs have convened the meetings of the Constitutional Committee(CC) and the Problem Resolution(PR) Subcommittee for Tuesday afternoon to
remove all the bottlenecks. The meeting of the CC has been called at 3pm while the PR sub-committee meet will kick start at 1 pm. But the Constitutional Committee, which is mandated to draft new constitution, was required to forge consensus on key constitutional
to integration composition of the selection committee, ranks to be offered to Maoist fighters, structure of the directorate general to be formed under the Nepali Army and duration of the training and bridging courses for the to-be-integrated Maoist exfighters. The task force comprising four SC members, one each from four major political forces Barshaman Pun of UCPN-Maoist, Minendra Risal of Nepali Congress, Bhim Rawal of CPNUML and Jitendra Dev of MJF-D however, was reluctant to disclose to media the understanding reached after four-hour meeting at SC Secretariat. A member of the task force told THT, We have decided that lieutenant general of army would head the directorate general.
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A top Sri Lankan Army commander has warned the Tamil people in the countrys north to be wary of elements attempting to undermine the hard-earned peace. Speaking to the local people after distributing grants to former LTTE
Army warns Good friends with both Tamils to be wary China, India: Lanka
suffered irrespective of ethnicity by the LTTEs campaign for a separate state, now it was the time to forget the dark era of the past and unite as one nation that is Sri Lanka. The civil war in Lanka ended in 2009 with the defeat of the LTTE and India should not feel awkward about the Chinese presence in Sri Lanka since there is plenty of room for both, declared Member of Parliament and Presidential advisor Rajiv Wijesinghe in an interview in New Delhi. In a stopover in the Indian capital while travelling to Nepal Wijesinghe said India cannot have exclusive rights in Sri Lanka since there is plenty of room for both countries. Chinas growing presence in Srilanka is a matter that should not worry India at all since Sri Lanka wants to be friendly with both countries said the Sri Lankan diplomat, who added We are good friends with both India and China. Wijesinha was speaking to an IANS correspondent. And there is plenty of room for both. Wijesinha, who studied at Oxford University and has worked as a professor, said Sri Lankas geographical position makes it attractive for both the countries, but (seeking) exclusive rights to Sri Lanka is a waste of time. Not at all, not at all, said Wijesinha when asked whether India should begin to worry about the projects being undertaken by China in the island nation. Citing the example of Hambantota port, he said: We first offered its development to India. When it didnt
combatants for their rehabilitation, Jaffna Commander Maj Gen. Mahinda Hathurusinghe invited the Tamil diaspora to help the needy rather than undermining normalcy Various groups in Tamil Diaspora are now in the process of undermining the hard-earned peace in the country. Instead of disturbing peace now being enjoyed by people of Sri Lanka, those groups must come forward to help destitute people to make their life better using money being wasted on creating dissension among communities in Sri Lanka, he said. Hathurusinghe said as all communities in the island had
killing of its top leadership. In the first phase, each of some 25 of the ex-LTTE combatants released after rehabilitation were offered rupees 50,000. The balance rupees 200,000 will be granted in future. The army also handed over a house built by the troops to a war widow. Some 84 kids of four pre-schools in Alaveddy area were given school uniforms, shoes and exercise books as New Year gifts. Another 50 students were given parcels of exercise books. Sri Lanka is wary of the pro-LTTE Tamil diaspora domiciled in the West who the government claims are looking for an opportunity to revive the LTTE activity.
go ahead, it was given to China. The port is located in Hambantota, one of the lowest per capita income regions in Sri Lanka, and the port will be an important catalyst for major economic development. The total estimated construction cost of Phase 1 of the project is $361 million, out of which 85 percent has been funded by the Ex-Im Bank of China. The professor said that now India is moving quickly and working at the Kankesanturai port in the north. He gave the assurance that India has nothing to worry about regarding China and added: China is not a Big Brother. Wijesinha, who is advisor to the president for reconciliation, would like India to help out in providing micro-credit to the ex-combatants of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam
(LTTE). In May 2009, Colombo militarily crushed the LTTE, the last stages of the war leaving thousands of combatants and civilians dead. India outlawed the LTTE in 1992, a year after a Tiger suicide bomber assassinated former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. The bloody war in Sri Lanka, Wijesinha said, left 300,000 internally displaced people. About 10,000 combatants surrendered while another 1,000 were later caught. The idea is to provide micro-credit to the former combatants so that they can restart their lives through entrepreneurship, he said. We will soon approach India so that a sum of 1,000 lakh Sri Lankan rupees ($820,000) can be distributed to at least 1,000 ex-combatants.
The traditional Sri Lankan New Year, the most widely celebrated festival in Sri Lanka falls on 14 April. New Year celebrations follow auspicious times calculated by astrology. Every year Sri Lankans throughout the country rally together with great enthusiasm to celebrate Aluth Avurudu, the Sinhala & Hindu New Year. It is a fact that with the newly found freedom after defeating terrorism ending thirty years of war, Sinhalese and Tamils (Hindus) living in every corner of this tiny island celebrate this traditional festival far better way than before in a true national spirit. The Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations on Friday brought the capital city of Colombo to a standstill with businesses being shut and the migrant workers from rural outbacks returning home to join in the festivities. The new year is observed by the Sinhala Buddhist community
which forms 74 percent of the islands population and Tamil Hindu community. According
Roads which usually feature heavy traffic could only see kids playing cricket or lighting crackers in the
to the astrological charts, the Sinhala and Tamil New Year dawns this evening at 7:20 pm, local time.
revelry. Even President Mahinda Rajapaksa travels to his village in the rural southern Hambantota district to spend time with his
resemblance to those observed in some parts of India. The features of the celebration are cultural rituals which begin
with the cleaning of the house and lighting of an oil lamp. The rituals are strictly astrological time specified acts from the traditional lighting of the fire to preparation of Kiribath (milk rice). The partaking of meals on the appointed astrological time is followed by Ganudenu or entering the first business transaction. This is usually exchanging of coins and currency notes wrapped in betel leaves. Even the time to leave for work is on a nekath or the astrologically best time. Each of the auspicious times for rituals is marked by bursting of fire crackers. This year all auspicious times have fallen in the night which some sections of the astrologers community have described as odd. Cultural Affairs Minister TB Ekanayake defended criticism pointing to his experts panel of astrologers who he said could not have erred.
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Vodafone today threatened to drag the government to international arbitration over retrospective tax legislation under the bilateral investment treaty (BIT) between India and the Netherlands. Dutch subsidiary Vodafone International Holdings BV (VIHBV) on Tuesday severed a notice of dispute on the Indian government regarding proposals in the Finance Bill 2012 which it claimed violated the international legal protections granted Vodafone and other international investors in India. In a regulatory filing to the London Stock Exchange, Vodafone has asked the Indian government to abandon or suitably amend the retrospective aspects of the proposed legislation as Vodafone would prefer to reach an amicable solution to this matter. However, if the Indian government is not willing to do
for a wide range of Indian and international businesses, as well as direct and negative consequences for Vodafone. It said the proposed legislation would also countermand the verdict of the Supreme Court
in January 2012, which ruled that Vodafone had no liability to account for withholding tax on its acquisition of indirect interests in Hutchison Essar Limited in 2007. Under the BIT, Vodafone said the Indian government is obliged
among other things to accord fair and equitable treatment to investors, provide full protection and security, not breach the legitimate expectations of investors in making investments, not deny justice or breach previously provided assurances and not take steps to indirectly expropriate the investment. The statement said Vodafone believes that the retrospective tax proposal amount to a denial of justice and a breach of the Indian governments obligation under the BIT to accord fair and equitable treatment to investors. It said the Indian governments retrospective tax proposals have also raised significant and widespread concern within India and internationally and have been criticised by businesses and industry bodies representing more than 250,000 companies across the US, Europe and Asia.
Indias first interest rate cut in three years may be its last for a while. The central bank cut rates on Tuesday by an unexpectedly sharp 50 basis points to boost the sagging economy, but warned there was limited scope for more cuts, with inflation likely to remain elevated and growth on track to pick up, albeit modestly. The Reserve Bank of India, which was tightening monetary policy long after central banks elsewhere began easing, lowered its policy repo rate to 8.00 per cent, compared with expectations for a 25 basis point cut in a Reuters poll. RBI is indicating that there
2012. Indias rupee has been under pressure as foreign investors worry about persistent inflation, a yawning current account gap and fiscal indiscipline on the part of New Delhi, prompting concern about the countrys balance of payments. Investors and companies cheered the rate cut, with bond yields and swap rates falling sharply, although the rally was capped by expectations for few further cuts in the near term. Indian stocks ended 1.2 per cent higher. Some RBI-watchers said Tuesdays move was risky given the potential for resurgent inflation.
Sun Mark Ltd, winner of three consecutive Queens Awards for Enterprise in International Trade has been listed in the prestigious Sunday Times Profit Track 100 for a second year running. The company ranked 33rd last year and has improved its position to 25th on the table, signifying its tremendous growth. The Chairman, Dr Rami Ranger, MBE, paid a tribute to the Sun Mark team who share his vision for the company and continue to work hard to provide excellent customer
service. He was delighted with the companys standing and the significant increase in its sales and profits, given the economic downturn in global markets. He is optimistic about the future growth of the company as it has now set up a base in Dubai to service its growing presence in the Middle East and North African regions. The company exports British supermarket products to over 100 countries and its motto is we only succeed when our customers succeed.
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for each she needed to speak different languages. She had to brush up on her linguistic skills that included Urdu, Hindi, English, Marwadi and Punjabi. The source further adds.Karisma had to undertake rigorous language training. Director Vikram Bhatt wanted everything to be perfect and her diction to be clear. Thus, she had to go through many workshops and classes.
taken it as a learning experience making sure everything falls into place. Talking about her experience, Karisma says, It was achallenging though exciting experience. The workshops involved a lot of research and learning. It was about getting the correctaccent. Keeping it authentic was our main goal. All the best Karisma Kapoor and we hope your hard
cramming through school books, she was already making it big in the industry. Now today when she is returning after a hiatus with Dangerous Ishq, I am thrilled to be her leading man, Duggal told reporters. Right from the day it was announced Dangerous Ishq has been pitched as Karismas comeback film but Duggal says his role in the film is equally important.
22 year old, Nikki Sahota, a psychology student from West Bromwich, has made it through to the final of Miss Black Country where she will compete against other girls from the county for the title and a place in the coveted Miss England grand final. The final of Miss Black Country, being organized by Front Models, a national modeling agency specializing in hospitality and promotional work, will take place at Malmaison Hotel in Birmingham on Sunday 29thApril, where Nikki Sahota, will compete in a one to one interview round with a panel of judges, and three catwalk rounds including day wear, party wear and evening wear. The overall winner of Miss Black Country will be announced on the night, along with a number of other prizes. Nikki said, I am delighted to be selected for the final of Miss Black Country. I am really looking forward to meeting all the other finalists and getting my outfits together for the different rounds. All finalists are encouraged to raise money for the Beauty with a Purpose charity, which was officially established by Miss World last year and aims to help local and international organisations and projects across the World to help make a difference to the lives of disadvantaged and deprived people. Over the last three years the Miss England finalists have raised more than 200,000 for various charities including The Institute of Cancer,
The Variety Club of Great Britain, Beat and the National Autistic Society. Laura Coleman Manager of Front Models said, Fundraising for Beauty with a Purpose is a fundamental element of the competition and all the finalists in both Miss Black Country and Miss England are expected to make an effort to raise monies for the charity. Not only does the money go to support fantastic causes nationally, it will also be used to help international projects in third world countries. It is a fantastic charity for all the finalists to be associated with and will look great on their CV in the future. The winner of Miss Black Country will not only receive a place in the Miss England grand final where she will compete for the coveted title of Miss England, she will also win a styling consultation and personal shopping experience courtesy of Casey Paul and an outfit of their choice from The Little Wardrobe amongst other things.
Indian Cricketer Sachin Tendulkar may soon be seen dancing around trees instead of swinging his bat on the field.
Karan lost his temper and went all out in micro-blogging website Twitter. He wrote: Using their hired PR machinery and hiding behind so called friends to get news into tabloids is nothing but spineless and lame!!! He added: Some people need to wake up and smell the KOFFEE!!! Get a reality check before its too late!!! Grow up!!! and dont mess with goodness.... Wondering who is facing the Karans
actress heard bitchy comments about her being made by a powerful producer-director who fed Priyanka cupcakes at a recent party. This powerful producer-director is apparently going all out against Priyanka. Recently there have been reports that Priyanka is being ignored by the Bollywood fraternity and her co-stars wives worry about their husband working with her.
Rumours are rife that the Little Master, who recently completed his 100th ODI century, is all set to make his big screen debut in filmmaker
Vidhu Vinod Chopras Ferrari Ki Sawari. And, author Shobhaa Des tweet suggests it may be more than just a special appearance. Theres a distinct impression that Sachint is preparing for a new innings. In Bollywood. Fans will be over the moon if that happens, De tweeted on Friday. The Rajesh Mhapuskar directed film Ferrari Ki Sawaari starring Sharman Joshi may star Sachin Tendulkar in a guest appearance.
Vinod Chopra had an extended conversation recently at the Mukesh Ambani hosted event and Chopra spoke to Sachin again for his cameo. Sachin has earlier refused to do the cameo in film and given an opportunity Chopra asked Sachin again, post Sachins 100th century which has perhaps taken off all the pressure off the master blaster. Sources inform that Sachin has not refused this time and has asked for some time. And that is a reason enough for Chopra to slightly push the release of the film. Sources now state that Ferrari Ki Sawari will release a week after Rowdy Rathore and come on the 8th of June. The current release date of the film has been fixed on May 11.
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NEWS
A new technique to treat early prostate cancer may have far fewer side-effects than existing therapies, say experts. A 41-patient study in the journal Lancet Oncology suggests targeted ultrasound treatment could reduce the risk of impotence and incontinence. Researchers say it could transform future treatment if the findings are repeated in larger studies. The Medical Research Council (MRC), which funded the study, welcomed the results, which it
Targeted treatment Doctors at University College Hospital in London have carried out the first trial using highintensity focused ultrasound
said were promising. Each year 37,000 men in the UK are diagnosed with prostate cancer. Many face a difficult dilemma: the disease kills about 10,000 men every year, but for some it may not get worse if left untreated. Standard treatment with surgery or radiotherapy involves treating the whole prostate gland, and can harm surrounding tissue, with a serious risk of side-effects, including urinary incontinence and impotence.
(HIFU) aimed at small patches of cancer cells on the prostate. Surgeon Hashim Ahmed explains how the treatment works .This was a proof of concept study involving 41 patients. They used a probe, placed close to the prostate, which emits sound waves that heat the targeted cells to 80C, while causing minimal damage to surrounding nerves and muscles. Hashim Ahmed, a urological surgeon at the trust who led the study, says the results, 12 evidence on cancer control is also very good. But he says this needs to be evaluated in much larger studies. This could offer a transformation of the way we treat prostate cancer. It could offer a costeffective treatment for the NHS, and offer men with early prostate cancer an opportunity to treat their disease, but with very few side-effects. A patient on the trial, 72-year-old Further trials Professor Gillies McKenna, director of the Gray Institute for Radiation Oncology and Biology, a joint collaboration between the MRC and Cancer Research UK, welcomed the findings. If these promising results can be confirmed in a randomised controlled trial, focal therapy could soon become a reasonable treatment choice for prostate cancer alongside other proven that this treatment was given to fewer than 50 men, without follow-up over a sustained period of time. We look forward to the results of further trials, which we hope will provide a clearer idea of whether this treatment can control cancer in the long term whilst ridding men of the fear that treating their cancer might mean losing their quality of life.
fish or baked chicken if it is drowning in a creamy rich sauce. Try to order tomato-based sauces if you need to at all Dont feel compelled to order a 3 course meal, but if you do, try to choose light options like fruit or sorbet and order extra vegetables
If you are going for a starter, try the soup. Make sure to avoid creamy soups and go for broth-based soups made of vegetables as they contain mostly water which is a great way to fill up without the extra calories. Substitute potatoes and french fries for a salad where possible but watch out for the dressings. Creamy dressings are full of unwanted calories/fat so make sure to ask for it on the side so you can limit how much you use. Dont feel compelled to finish the whole meal, or have that extra helping. Take it home and enjoy it for your lunch the next day. Take your time with your meal. Eating slowly will help you to eat less as your body has a chance to start acknowledging that it is full. Alcohol is full of calories, try a white wine spritzer (with soda). Its a great lower calorie drink that lasts longer throughout the meal.
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nuclear weapon. Once international agencies had full access to Irans nuclear program, there could be a progressive reduction of the Security Councils sanctions that are now in effect. Iran would agree to cease making threats against Israel, and the United States would agree to support efforts toward achieving a nuclear-free zone in the Middle East. Meanwhile western diplomats claimed modest progress Saturday after more than 10 hours of talks with Iranian officials, raising hopes for at least a temporary easing of a nuclear crisis that has fueled fears of a new military conflict in the Middle East. The day-long talks at an Istanbul conference center did not yield an agreement on specific curbs to Irans nuclear program, but U.S. their continuation in Baghdad in line with resolving the nuclear issue while asserting Irans absolute and legitimate rights, Salehi said in a meeting with Egyptian cultural and media figures in Tehran on Tuesday. He added that the Istanbul talks may be considered as a starting point for an end to Irans nuclear issue. The Iranian minister lauded the countrys great potential of selfsufficiency and self-reliance and emphasized that the replacement of an attitude of confrontation by Western states with that of collaboration was the significant achievement of the latest talks between Iran and the P5+1 -- Russia, China, France, Britain, the US and Germany. During the Istanbul talks, it was proven that the Western countries are unable to force Iran to surrender and give up its absolute and legitimate rights to use peaceful nuclear energy by exerting political and economic pressure, Salehi pointed out. He reiterated that despite the pressure, Iran is making progress in the nuclear energy program, including the production of fuel for the Tehran Research Reactor. Iran and the P5+1 wrapped up their latest negotiations in the Turkish city of Istanbul on April 14 and agreed to hold the next round of the talks in the Iraqi capital of Baghdad on May 23, 2012. Both sides hailed the talks as constructive. There is no guarantee that diplomacy will succeed. But that is also true of war. And only diplomacy can offer Irans current rulers a stake in building a secure future without a nuclear bomb. Only diplomacy can achieve Americas major objectives while avoiding the mistakes committed in Iraq or Vietnam.
would agree to full recognition and respect for the Islamic Republic, and Iran would agree to regional cooperation with the United States in Afghanistan and Iraq. Both sides would agree to address the full range of bilateral disputes. The International Atomic Energy Agency and the United Nations Security Council could accept an Iranian civil nuclear program in return for Irans agreeing to grant inspectors full access to that program to assure that Iran did not build a
and European officials described the negotiations as constructive and useful and said a second round had been set for May 23 in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad. Irans Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi has expressed optimism about the outcomes of the talks between Iran and six major world powers (P5+1) in Istanbul and the settlement of Tehrans nuclear issue. We are optimistic about the outcomes of the negotiations and
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for dialogue. On the other side you have an opposition which is not prepared for dialogue and it is not prepared to accept reforms. All it wants is to bring down the regime. This is a problem. Nasrallah called for balance on the Syrian issue as armed groups in Syria have killed very many civilians though international blame is leveled squarely at President Assad. Several Arab & non-Arab states are arming and funding the rebels while in the Hezbollah leaders opinion Al-Qaeda simply
wants to turn Syria into a battle ground. There is fighting in Syria when one party retreats, the other will advance, it will go on as long as doors to dialogue are shut, he told Assange. Stressing that Hezbollah supports dialogue, Nasrallah points out that without it, civil war is the only alternative. In his words this is exactly what America and Israel want Arab states are ready for tens of years of dialogue with Israel but wont have two months to try a political
solution in Syria. Israel is illegal state To this day Nasrallah believes Israel is and will be an illegal state It was established on the basis of occupying the lands of others, he says. If I occupy your house by force it doesnt become mine in 50 or 100 years. While Hezbollah does not want to kill anyone, the only solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is establishing a democratic state on Palestinian land where Muslims, Jews and Christians live in peace but the US wont let people listen to Hezbollah. Our priority is still the liberation of our land and the protection of Lebanon from the Israeli threat, he told Assange, Israels hi-tech surveillance will never crack the code of the Lebanese resistance they use local village dialects. Assange show premieres
Doctors in Pakistan are fighting to save the life of a baby boy born with six legs.
Imran Shaikh, the babys father who lives in Sukkur, around 450km (280 miles) north of Karachi, said he was grateful his son was being treated.
The unnamed infant has a rare genetic condition, hospital officials said. The boy was born to the wife of an X-ray technician a week ago, Jamal Raza, the director of National Institute of the Child Health in Karachi, told reporters. It is not one baby actually. They are two, one of them is premature, he said. A doctor at the institute, who did not wish to be named, said the extra limbs were the result of a genetic disease which would affect only one in a million or more babies. The doctors are examining the infant to plan for necessary treatment to save the babys life and ensure he lives a normal life, said a statement from the provincial health department.
We are a poor family. I am thankful to the government for helping us treating my baby, he told the media. The case is similar to that of Lakshmi Tatma, an Indian girl who sparked international sympathy after she was born with four arms and four legs. The operation to remove her extra limbs began in 2007 when she was two years old and was a success.
Woman says she will pay for new husband but he must accept her conditions If you are looking for a rich wife, then read this story. A Saudi woman is offering $1.3 million (Dh4.9 million) to get married even if it is a Misyar marriage. But wait. The woman has conditions which she will not reveal now. The main thing is that the new husband must appreciate marriage life. The woman published the attractive offer in the Saudi Arabic language magazine Roa, which said applicants can write to it by e mail or fax. The announcement neither mentioned the womans name and age nor where she lives. Applicants should provide their contact number so the woman will contact them in case she agrees on the marriage, the magazine said. It quoted the woman as saying:It does not matter whether the new husband is attracted to my money as the most important thing is that he must appreciate marriage life and marital dutiesI am even ready to accept a Misyar marriage and pay him SRfive million at oncehe will live with me in my villa and must
Saudi woman willing to pay $1.3 million ((840,415.54 GBP) to find suitable husband
accept all my conditions which I will reveal to him later. The magazine said the woman was married before but that she divorced her husband was greedy and wanted only money. I made the wrong choice first time.I want to make the right choice nowmy main obsession now is to marryI am desperate to marry, the woman said. Misyar is a marriage contract where couples can live separately but get together regularly, often for sexual relations. Although permitted in Saudi Arabia and under Islam, Misyar is not popular with many who see it as legal prostitution. Women lose nearly all their rights in a Misyar marriage and nearly 80 per cent of Misyar relationships end in divorce.
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Shadow justice secretary Sadiq Khan says terror suspect should by tried in UK rather than extradited to the US
also facing extradition to the US. In his letter to the home secretary, Theresa May, Khan last week wrote: You may be aware that the Metropolitan police and CPS [Crown Prosecution Service] only viewed a small portion of the evidence against my constituents and sent the vast majority to the United States authorities without first reviewing it to see if British authorities could bring charges against Babar Ahmad and Syed Talha Ahsan. I would ask that you satisfy yourself that proper procedures were followed at all times in these two cases. Khans letter continues: I would specifically ask that you personally review the case against my constituents to see if charges can be brought against Babar Ahmad and Syed Taiha Ahsan here in the UK. They have always been willing to stand trial in a British court, and in front of a jury of their peers. In another letter to the attorney general, Khan wrote: It is clear that the bulk of the evidence gathered by the Metropolitan police was provided directly to the US authorities without the CPS reviewing it. Ahmads family and lawyers had always believed the CPS had viewed all the evidence before deciding not to bring charges in the UK, which left the way open for the US extradition attempt. But last November the CPS wrote to them to say only a small number of documents seized by the Metropolitan police were submitted for advice. The letter was from Sue Hemming, head of the CPSs counter-terrorism division. The same letter said that the CPS had not considered any evidence in charging Ahsan. In a statement, the CPS said: We made clear to Mr Ahmads solicitors in a letter last November that the CPS as domestic prosecutors saw a small number of documents gathered as evidence by the police in this country, which was insufficient for a prosecution here. At the time this decision was made, domestic prosecutors were aware of the nature of the evidence in the possession of the US, but the entirety of the evidence was never subject to review in this country as it formed part of the case built by the US and was held there. The evidence found in the UK and submitted to the CPS by the Metropolitan police service, even if it had potentially amounted to an offence of collecting information likely to be useful for a terrorist purpose, amounted to only a small Babar be put on trial in the UK immediately. It has now become very clear that the bulk of the evidence gathered by British police was provided directly to the US authorities without the Crown Prosecution Service CPS ever reviewing it, a fact now admitted by the CPS. This is a very serious abuse of process which has resulted in a man being detained without trial for almost 8 years, the equivalent of a 16 year criminal sentence. In the case of Regina v Sheppard & Whittle [2010] involving the possession, publication and internet distribution of racially inflammatory material hosted on a remote server in the US, Lord Justice Scott Baker ruled that the UK was the appropriate forum for trial because a substantial measure of the activities constituting the crime (the operation, maintenance and collation of all material for the website) took place in the UK. Babar too is accused of operating, maintaining and collating material for a website from the UK which was simply hosted by a remote server in the US for a period of a few months. Therefore, the correct forum for a trial for Babar should be the UK and not the US. Please write to the Director of Public Prosecutions, Keir Starmer, and request that he order Babar Ahmad be put on trial immediately. Please send your emails to keir.starmer@cps.gsi.gov.uk We encourage supporters to prepare their own letters using the above points. A sample letter is below for your convenience but a July 19, 2007, after US authorities requested his extradition. He is accused in the US of terrorism-related offences arising out of an alleged involvement with a series of websites between 1997 and 2004. Mr Ahsans case is linked to that of Babar Ahmad but he has received much less media attention than Mr Ahmad, who was arrested in 2003 and is also still in prison. Mr Ahsan, who graduated from the School of Oriental and African Studies with a First in Arabic, has never been charged or tried in this country. He is currently in the final stage of proceedings at the European Courts of Human Rights fighting against extradition. Last week ruling was greeted with disappointment by Mr Ahsans father. Speaking from his home, Syed Abu Ahsan, 73, told Channel 4 News: We are devastated. Until this morning, we had very small hopes that they wouldnt have to go, or that if they went, they wouldnt have to go to the Supermax prison. This is the most terrible news for us. In this country, Talha is completely innocent. Even though we know he is innocent, if they think he has done something wrong, he should be tried in this country. We will still try everything we can. Mr Ahsan said that the family were now considering whether to appeal against the decision. He said: My son has Aspergers syndrome, he is not well. Gary McKinnon also suffers from Aspergers, and he got bail. So we want to know why our son has been treated differently? If he goes to a Supermax prison, it will be very sad. Supermax is horrible - you cant touch the soil, you dont have contact with other humans. The last six years have been terrible for us, but at least we could speak to him. We could go to visit him once a week. If he goes to Supermax, we wont be able to see him, to speak to him. How will we see our son? Mr Ahsans 73-year-old father, Syed Abu Ahsan, said the family was very very depressed about the situation, adding he did not hold out much hope his sons case would be resolved soon. He said: Nobody is above America. If they say something nobody dares to say differently. But Mr Ahsans family continue to lobby the Home Secretary to give him a fair trial in the UK, giving special consideration to his medical conditions. On July 19, they will be at the Islamic Human Rights Commission bookshop, in Wembley, where supporters will give readings from a book of poetry Mr Ahsan has written and had published while in Long Lartin Prison. Mr Ahsans MP, Sadiq Khan, who has spoken out about Mr Ahmads case in the past, said: It is extremely distressing for Mr Ahsans family that this case continues to drag on. I have met with the Extradition Minister to discuss this case and the case of Babar Ahmad. Although the Government is reviewing its policy on extradition to the United States, they have told me it is unlikely to cover existing cases, which is bad news for the family. I am hopeful that the European Court of Human Rights will make a judgement soon on the case. A spokeswoman for the Home Office had not responded to any queries as this weeks paper went to press. For more information visit freetalha.org. About Talha Talha Ahsan is a British-born poet and writer with Asperger syndrome facing extradition to America. If convicted he will spend 70 years in supermax solitary confinement in ADX Florence. Read on and help stop this injustice. Who is Talha Ahsan? Talha Ahsan is a British citizen born in London in 1979. He was educated at Dulwich College before receiving first class honours in Arabic from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS). In the week of his arrest he had job interviews to train as a librarian. Talha has Asperger Syndrome (a form of autism). His mother describes him as a serious, bookish young man a very gentle, softly spoken and thoughtful boy. He is also a keen poet and has received acclaim from novelist A.L. Kennedy amongst others. Why is he in prison? Talha Ahsan was arrested at his home on 19 July 2006 in response to a request from the USA under the Extradition Act 2003 which does not require the presentation of any prima facie evidence. He is accused in the US of terrorismrelated offences arising out of an alleged involvement over the period of 1997-2004 with a series of websites, one of which happened to be located on a server in America. He has never been arrested or questioned by British police, despite a number of men being so from his local area in December 2003 for similar allegations. All of them were released without charge.
fraction of the criminality alleged against Babar Ahmad by the US. Ahmad has spent the last eight years in prison in the UK. The key evidence against him came from searches of his south London home, and lockers and computer equipment he used at Imperial College London. Furthermore, bank accounts and postal orders to fund the Azzam website, which the US says shows Ahmad was instrumental in running it, were all based or originated in Britain. The US says a server used to host the Azzam website for a period of time was based in Colorado. Lawyers for the men facing extradition to the US are considering an appeal to the grand chamber of the European court. Judges last week decided that the length of sentences the men faced, and conditions of detention in a Supermax prison in Colorado with extensive periods of solitary confinement, did not amount to inhumane treatment or torture as defined by article three of the European convention on human rights. But the UNs leading expert on torture has said he fears conditions the men would face in the US would amount to torture, or inhuman or degrading treatment. In an intervention in the case,
which the European court essentially rejected, Professor Juan Mndez, the United Nations special rapporteur on torture, wrote to the court saying: I am concerned that extradition of a detainee to a state that practices solitary confinement with limited recourse would violate article 3. urther to the judgement of the European Court of Human Rights which ruled that Babar Ahmad and others could be extradited to the US, the Free Babar Ahmad (FBA) Campaign urges all supporters to write to the Director of Public Prosecutions to demand that
personalised letter always carries more weight. Kindly send a copy of your correspondence and any replies received to dpp@freebabarahmad. com Forgotten terror suspect from Tooting nears five years in prison The family of Tootings forgotten terror suspect, who remains in jail without trial, are preparing to mark the fifth anniversary of his imprisonment. Syed Talha Ahsan a 31-year-old writer with Asperger syndrome was arrested at his home in Franciscan Road, Tooting, on
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President of the State of Palestine Mahmoud Abbas and President Mahinda Rajapaksa agreed on the need to further strengthen the excellent relations between the two countries, during bilateral talks at the Presidential Secretariat yesterday morning. The two leaders emphasised the need to further develop ties in the political, economic and cultural spheres for the benefit of the people of both countries. President Abbas appreciated the continued support shown by Sri Lanka to the Palestinian cause. He added he was happy to see Sri Lanka stabilised as a peaceful state moving towards prosperity. This has happened under your leadership and I believe next year and the future too will be much better for Sri Lanka under your guidance,Abbas told President Rajapaksa. Palestinian President Abbas who is on a two-day official visit to Sri Lanka was warmly welcomed by President Rajapaksa at the Presidential Secretariat. The Palestinian President was accorded a guard of honour at a ceremony within the precints of the Presidential Secretariat. President Rajapaksa said Sri
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Lanka appreciates the Palestine Foreign Relations Commissions expression of solidarity and support during Sri Lankas war against terrorism. President Rajapaksa invited the Palestine business community to explore opportunities to invest in Sri Lanka as the country is experiencing the benefits of peace. He said Sri Lanka is happy to provide assistance in the field of education to Palestine. President Rajapaksa added Sri Lanka is funding a project to train pre school and grade one teachers in the Palestinian Education
Department and has also granted scholarships for needy students in Palestine. He expressed the availability of educational opportunities in the fields of medicine and engineering in Sri Lanka for Palestinian students. The discussions also centred on enhancing co-operation in tourism. The leaders also dwelt on the long standing friendship between the two countries and of matters relating to enhancing diplomatic ties between the two countries. External Affairs Minister Prof. G.L. Peiris at a press
joint action to encourage tourism ventures in both countries. He suggested measures for greater cooperation in higher education, especially in exchange programmes for lecturers and researchers. Two protocol agreements on Political Consultation between the External Affairs Ministry and the Palestine Foreign Affairs Ministry and the Avoidance of Double Taxation and Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to taxes on income were signed between the two countries, following the discussions. The agreements were entered into between External Affairs Minister Prof G L Peiris and Foreign Affairs Minister of State of Palestine Dr Riyad Al-Malki on behalf of the two countries at the Presidential Secretariat in the presence of the two leaders. External Affairs Minister Prof G L Peiris, Economic Development Minister Basil Rajapaksa, Trade and Commerce Minister Rishad Bathiudeen, Parliamentarian Sajin de Vass Gunawardena, Secretary to the President Lalith Weeratunga and External Affairs Ministry Secretary Karunatilake Amunugama were also present. latest trends Bollywood Families - Sun 6pm A unique insight into the family of a Bollywood star - featuring prominent Bollywood families and their rise to fame Screen And Beyond - Tue 7pm and Sun 6:30pm Get to know the passions and hobbies of stars and celebrities, presenting the little known facets of their personalities Fanography - Tue 7:15pm and Sun 6:45pm Fanography gives a rare insight into celebrity likings Brits Bollywood Sun 11:30am Britains take on Bollywood with Asad and Kel For Zings latest Bollywood news and competitions for upcoming events visit www.zingtv.co.uk and follow Zing UK on Facebook.
Bollywood music is soul food for many. Zing is presenting spectacular Bollywood Nights to enjoy across London, including The Bollywood Experience at Holiday Inn Kensington Forum this Friday 13 April, Bollywood Baisakhi Boat Party at London Westminster Pier also this Friday 13 April, Bollywood Nights at Peaches Bar and Restaurant and more. Go online now to win exclusive tickets at www.zingtv.co.uk In the coming weeks, Zing will also be seen alongside the much awaited Johnny Lever Comedy Show, an upcoming Bollywood movie London Premier and Summer Melas. Archana Kanade, Zing Channel Head, UK We know how much our viewers love all things Bollywood. With a packed
schedule of events and competitions, Zing brings Bollywood to life, making it an interactive experience that goes beyond TV. This is a way to delight and thank our avid viewers. We want everyone to get involved and enjoy the Zing vibe! Already UKs No. 1 Music Channel amongst Asians (Source: BARB), Zing has successfully brought UK audiences closer to the glamour of Bollywood with star-studded shows and new concepts, only available on Zing. Continue to follow the shows that bring fans closer to Bollywood, including: Trendsetters Sat & Sun 5pm Capturing what every Bollywood fan is desperate to know, from the trivia to the
KARACHI: Bangladesh has confirmed that it will be sending its cricket team to Pakistan for a series later this month. The two Asia Cup finalists will be playing one ODI on April 29 and one Twenty20 on April 30, both at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Bangladesh will be the first international team to tour Pakistan in three years. I am pleased to confirm the tour in which Bangladesh will play a one-day match on April 29 and a Twenty20 game the next day, both in Lahore, Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) president Mustafa Kamal said in a press release. Pakistans government had promised foolproof security for the Bangladesh team after their security delegation assessed the situation here last month. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Zaka Ashraf said the confirmation is a good sign.
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I am extremely pleased that Bangladesh has confirmed the tour. Obviously this is very important for us and we will leave no stone unturned to ensure that this tour takes place in a befitting manner, said Ashraf.
Both the countries had started to show signs of bitterness after Bangladesh showed reluctance over the tour and Pakistan threatened to review relations if the tour doesnt take place. PCB further said the remaining matches of the FTP (Future Tours Programme) tour will be played at dates mutually agreed between the two Boards at venues including Bangladesh. Bangladesh was due for a full tour of Pakistan under the International Cricket Council (ICC) FTP in 2012. The ICC said it will need a comprehensive security plan from Pakistan to send match officials. The ICC Board were informed that the tour will take place and the Board, having due
regard to its duty of care to match officials and other ICC staff, requested that the PCB to immediately provide a comprehensive security plan for consideration, the ICC said. Thereafter, the ICCs Anti Corruption and Security Unit will commission a localised risk assessment to determine whether its officials and staff are appropriately protected by the proposed security plan, before any further decision is taken in relation to their appointment. Last month, the ICC had announced a special dispensation to be made only in exceptional circumstances in order to ensure that a bilateral series take place even if the ruling body has determined it unsafe to appoint its officials for such series. This would allow such series to be manned by non-neutral match officials.Kamal, who is a joint nominee of Pakistan-Bangladesh for the ICC vice presidents post in 2012, said the series will give Pakistani people some cricket. The public of Pakistan have been deprived of cricket and we felt that we needed to support them. The reception we received when we toured Lahore and Karachi on our security visit was overwhelming. said Kamal. This tour is taking place after 2009 and this short tour will hopefully demonstrate to the world that cricket should start taking place in Pakistan,said Kamal.
The city of Dubai is built on foundations that are steeped in history and tradition. From the evocative Dubai Museum to the spectacular Jumeirah Mosque, and from the breathtaking Bastakiya to the imperious Heritage Village. There are many mysteries waiting to be unravelled. Explore Dubai at your pace and relive great traditions from day gone by.
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remonstrating with her that a fall should have been avoided. For Zahra, there is little room for such mistakes. On Monday she will become the first Emirati figure skater to compete in an international competition, when she takes on skaters from 50 countries at the European Cup in Canazei, Italy. Watching her, it is hard to believe there was ever a time when the 12th grader was ever anything but completely at home on the ice. When I was about 11, I saw a movie called TheIce Princess, about a geeky kid who studies ice skating as part of a physics project and falls in love with figure skating, she said. I watched the film and fell in love with the expression and the art, and knew it was what I wanted to do. Zahras father first took her to the ice rink at Zayed Sports City, although he had little idea quite how far his little girls ambition would take her. When he first realised how serious she was taking the sport, he began to feel a little reluctant. It did take time to convince her father to let her do it - he didnt think it was proper and Islamic and UAE culture, said her mother, Roquiya Cochran, who was born in the US.
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Bangladeshs national team coach Stuart Law says he is resigning from his post for family reasons. Law has served less than a year of a two-year contract since replacing fellow Australian Jamie Siddons, who departed after failing to get Bangladesh past the group stage of the World
Cup. Law said Monday that he is resigning as his family is settling in Australia from United Kingdom, and his resignation will be effective from June 30. Before joining Bangladesh, Law served as Sri Lankas assistant coach under Trevor Bayliss from 2009 and took the helm after Bayliss resigned following the World Cup last year.
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Zahra Lari, the Ice Princess in the hijab Emirati teen skates into history books
Skating backwards, Zahra Lari hops elegantly on to one leg before launching herself into a 540 degree spin through the air.
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