NEW DELHI: The BJP on Monday criticised solicitor general Gopal Subramaniam's attempts to get officials of CBI and ED to attend a strategy session with the counsel for A Raja even as they were investigating the former telecom minister's role in the 2G spectrum scam.
Reacting to TOI reports, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha Arun Jaitley told reporters, "If such a meeting has indeed been held, it establishes that an effort was made for a cover-up. Department of telecommunication (DoT) was the department being investigated, Raja, the minister being investigated and CBI was the investigating agency. How can the investigative agency and the accused have a common strategy session?"
The 2G spectrum case is pending before the Supreme Court, where the court is hearing a PIL petition accusing government agencies like the CBI and ED of inaction in probing the corruption charges against Raja.
On Saturday, TOI reported that the solicitor general did not see anything wrong in trying to get CBI and ED officials to have a joint strategy meeting with Raja's counsel.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Kasab raises legal point before HC on NIA investigation
Mumbai, Nov 15 : Pakistani terrorist Ajmal Kasab today raised a legal point before the Bombay High Court, asking whether National Investigating Agency (NIA) can register an independent case against him in respect of 26/11 terror attack in view of section 300 of CrPc which says a person convicted of an offence cannot be tried again.
In a petition based on media reports, Kasab, who has been given death sentence for his role in the 26/11 attacks, asked whether the NIA had registered an independent case against him and that it would soon interrogate him.
Defence advocate Amin Solkar, appearing on behalf of Kasab, said the report indicates that the 26/11 probe, on the basis of which Kasab was convicted, was either incomplete or a de novo (fresh) investigation is on the cards.
''This will amount to double jeopardy and also directly interfere in the case of confirmation of Kasab's death sentence pending before the High Court, he said'' The Division bench comprising of Justices Ranjana Desai and R V More, who at the initial stages of hearing, contended that court will not go by media report but later after hearing the petition at length, asked public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam to file a reply on November 18 to the issues raised by Kasab.
Kasab's petition asked whether NIA, which was set up after the 26/11 attacks, was authorised to conduct investigation and file a charge sheet and why till date it had not done so.
The petition also questioned whether investigation in all the 12 cases registered pertaining to the 26/11 terror attacks was assigned to Mumbai Crime Branch or NIA. It also asked whether the probe by Mumbai Crime Branch was legal.
Defence advocate Amin Solkar, appearing on behalf of Kasab, said the report indicates that the 26/11 probe, on the basis of which Kasab was convicted, was either incomplete or a de novo (fresh) investigation is on the cards.
''This will amount to double jeopardy and also directly interfere in the case of confirmation of Kasab's death sentence pending before the High Court, he said'' The Division bench comprising of Justices Ranjana Desai and R V More, who at the initial stages of hearing, contended that court will not go by media report but later after hearing the petition at length, asked public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam to file a reply on November 18 to the issues raised by Kasab.
Kasab's petition asked whether NIA, which was set up after the 26/11 attacks, was authorised to conduct investigation and file a charge sheet and why till date it had not done so.
The petition also questioned whether investigation in all the 12 cases registered pertaining to the 26/11 terror attacks was assigned to Mumbai Crime Branch or NIA. It also asked whether the probe by Mumbai Crime Branch was legal.
India to emerge as torchbearer for world peace: Kalam
Bhopal, Nov 15 : Former President A P J Abdul Kalam today said India will emerge as torchbearer for the world peace in the coming decades and the country will march forward in the field of science and technology.
Inaugurating the state-Level Inspire Award Science Exhibition - 2010 at Model School T T Nagar here, Dr Kalam elaborately narrated the future of India which will be based on science and technology, in presence of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and other dignitaries.
Pointing out to Mr Chouhan, Dr Kalam said ''You all will be in Mars and Moon in the year 2030 and I will meet you over there at the age of 100.'' Talking about the importance of studying of science, Dr Kalam said that culture of excellence develops through science and stressed the need for continuous innovation in the field of knowledge. ''Innovation comes from a fertile brain and several scientists possess such brain. There are no dearth of such persons in our country,'' he pointed out.
The 'Missile Man of India' said, ''Science enhances our grasping power and brain develops through resolving science puzzles. It also expands the thinking power endlessly.'' ''The key to success of life lies in the efforts of moving forward continuously and for this, one should take resolution on his or her own. It should come from within,'' the former President said and suggested, and inspire a the audience to work hard and contribute to serve the society and the country.
Speaking on the occasion Mr Chouhan lauded Dr Kalam and former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to identify the potential of hidden power and creating an atmosphere of confidence. He said Pokhran II nuclear explosion proved India's potential before the world and even US President Barack Obama admitted India's achievement in various field including science and technology.
Pointing out to Mr Chouhan, Dr Kalam said ''You all will be in Mars and Moon in the year 2030 and I will meet you over there at the age of 100.'' Talking about the importance of studying of science, Dr Kalam said that culture of excellence develops through science and stressed the need for continuous innovation in the field of knowledge. ''Innovation comes from a fertile brain and several scientists possess such brain. There are no dearth of such persons in our country,'' he pointed out.
The 'Missile Man of India' said, ''Science enhances our grasping power and brain develops through resolving science puzzles. It also expands the thinking power endlessly.'' ''The key to success of life lies in the efforts of moving forward continuously and for this, one should take resolution on his or her own. It should come from within,'' the former President said and suggested, and inspire a the audience to work hard and contribute to serve the society and the country.
Speaking on the occasion Mr Chouhan lauded Dr Kalam and former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to identify the potential of hidden power and creating an atmosphere of confidence. He said Pokhran II nuclear explosion proved India's potential before the world and even US President Barack Obama admitted India's achievement in various field including science and technology.
Piped gas to reach over 200 cities by 2015: Deora
Mumbai, Nov 15 : Terming Natural Gas as a fuel of the 21st century, Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Murli Deora has said that the piped natural gas would reach more than 200 cities by 2015.
Delivering the inaugural speech at the All India LPG Distributors Federation Silver Jubilee conference and exhibition here today, Mr Deora said expansion of natural gas distribution network in cities would make possible to give more LPG to rural areas.
''Both public and private sector companies are expanding its existing infrastructure. GAIL alone is expanding its existing pipeline of 7,000 km to 12,000 km in next 5 years. With expansion of natural gas distribution in urban and semi-urban areas, more LPG will be available for distribution in rural areas so as to achieve the target under Rajiv Gandhi Gramin LPG Vitran Yojana,''the minister said.
Mr Deora said that the Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) had introduced a number of measures to improve customer services.
He, however, asked the LPG distributors to take necessary steps to control the menace of diversion and black marketing of LPG across the country.
''It is a matter of pride for our Oil Industry that India exported 51 million tones of refined petroleum products during 2009-10 valued at USD 30 billion, making petroleum products the largest foreign exchange earner in the merchandized category,'' he said.
''The supply of petroleum products would further get a boost with commissioning of three grass root refineries coming up at Bina, Bhatinda and Paradip in the next two years, increasing the refining capacity from 185 million tones today to around 240 million tones by 2012,'' Mr Deora said.
Earlier, in his speech, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Secretary, S. Sunderashan said that the government was hoping for a rationalization of LPG prices in the future so that there could be a reasonable profit for OMCs.
''Both public and private sector companies are expanding its existing infrastructure. GAIL alone is expanding its existing pipeline of 7,000 km to 12,000 km in next 5 years. With expansion of natural gas distribution in urban and semi-urban areas, more LPG will be available for distribution in rural areas so as to achieve the target under Rajiv Gandhi Gramin LPG Vitran Yojana,''the minister said.
Mr Deora said that the Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) had introduced a number of measures to improve customer services.
He, however, asked the LPG distributors to take necessary steps to control the menace of diversion and black marketing of LPG across the country.
''It is a matter of pride for our Oil Industry that India exported 51 million tones of refined petroleum products during 2009-10 valued at USD 30 billion, making petroleum products the largest foreign exchange earner in the merchandized category,'' he said.
''The supply of petroleum products would further get a boost with commissioning of three grass root refineries coming up at Bina, Bhatinda and Paradip in the next two years, increasing the refining capacity from 185 million tones today to around 240 million tones by 2012,'' Mr Deora said.
Earlier, in his speech, the Petroleum and Natural Gas Secretary, S. Sunderashan said that the government was hoping for a rationalization of LPG prices in the future so that there could be a reasonable profit for OMCs.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Kids to Kalam: Scientists yes, politicians no
Kalam addressed students at the Model Senior Secondary School here, and asked them about their career choices.
Most of the students, of classes X to XII, said they wanted to be scientists and engineers.
"How many of you want to go to moon and space?" he asked. Everyone in the hall raised his hands, to his delight.
"At 2030, when I would be hundred years old, I would meet you again," he joked.
The students were equally emphatic in their rejections.
"How many of you want to become politicians?" the former president asked.
Not one hand was raised.
There was a virtual riot after Kalam finished speaking, with students rushing up to shake hands with him. Some of them also asked Kalam for his number. He asked them to visit his website, and send him emails if they wished.
Kalam, who arrived here Sunday, is scheduled to attend many public meetings throughout Monday.
Kashmir is India's 'internal' issue: US envoy
NEW DELHI: With Kashmir reportedly being excluded from the UN list of unresolved disputes, the US today said it was an "internal issue" of India and should be resolved bilaterally through negotiations with Pakistan.
"This is an internal issue for India. It is a bilateral issue between Pakistan and India, to discuss term, scope, character and pace," US Ambassador Timothy Roemer said.
He was asked to comment on UN excluding Kashmir from list of unresolved international issues.
"The (US) President ( Barack Obama), I think was very articulate on this issue of Kashmir. This is an internal issue for India," he said on the sidelines of a function here.
Roemer noted that during his visit, Obama had said that he encouraged Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and people of India to engage with the government and people of Pakistan.
He underlined that whenever India and Pakistan talk, it will be at the "pace and character" of the two countries.
On Obama announcing support for India's bid for permanent UNSC membership, he said the US will now work to realise the promise.
"We are very proud about President's announcement that he is unequivocally and fervently in favour of India having a permanent seat in a reformed United Nations. It was one of the many highlights of (his) visit to India..We will be working to see that happen," Roemer said
.
"This is an internal issue for India. It is a bilateral issue between Pakistan and India, to discuss term, scope, character and pace," US Ambassador Timothy Roemer said.
He was asked to comment on UN excluding Kashmir from list of unresolved international issues.
"The (US) President ( Barack Obama), I think was very articulate on this issue of Kashmir. This is an internal issue for India," he said on the sidelines of a function here.
Roemer noted that during his visit, Obama had said that he encouraged Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and people of India to engage with the government and people of Pakistan.
He underlined that whenever India and Pakistan talk, it will be at the "pace and character" of the two countries.
On Obama announcing support for India's bid for permanent UNSC membership, he said the US will now work to realise the promise.
"We are very proud about President's announcement that he is unequivocally and fervently in favour of India having a permanent seat in a reformed United Nations. It was one of the many highlights of (his) visit to India..We will be working to see that happen," Roemer said
.
Govt to take strong action against corruption: Rahul Gandhi
FURSATGANJ: Amid storm in Parliament over reports of various scams, including 2G spectrum allocation, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi said the government was taking "strong action" on the issue of corruption.
"It is an important issue and we need to be very strict on corruption... the government is in the process of taking strong action," he told reporters here.
He was replying to a question on reports of major scams in the spectrum allocation, Commonwealth Games projects and Adarsh Housing society. Opposition's demand for JPC probe into these cases stalled Parliament for the fourth consecutive day today.
The Amethi MP, who is on a three-day tour of his Lok Sabha constituency, was speaking on the sidelines of a function to inaugurate a building and auditorium of Footware Development and Design Institute here.
The Congress leader said the quantum of development in Uttar Pradesh was low.
"Development in UP is low as compared to what could have been done, but there are certain constraints. You can see the state of roads even outside the auditorium," he said.
The Congress general secretary said, in his view, the government's role should be to support industrial growth.
"If the UP government's focus is in the right direction, the state could be developed... there are no shortcomings in the people here," he said.
Earlier, his cavalcade was stopped by women employees of Sheena Textiles, who were demanding that the closed unit be re-opened.
The workers submitted a memorandum to the leader, who assured to look into the matter.
Earlier on his arrival at Amausi airport in Lucknow Rahul was received by senior leaders including Digvijay Singh, UPPCC president Reeta Bahuguna Joshi and CLP leader Pramod Tiwari.
"It is an important issue and we need to be very strict on corruption... the government is in the process of taking strong action," he told reporters here.
He was replying to a question on reports of major scams in the spectrum allocation, Commonwealth Games projects and Adarsh Housing society. Opposition's demand for JPC probe into these cases stalled Parliament for the fourth consecutive day today.
The Amethi MP, who is on a three-day tour of his Lok Sabha constituency, was speaking on the sidelines of a function to inaugurate a building and auditorium of Footware Development and Design Institute here.
The Congress leader said the quantum of development in Uttar Pradesh was low.
"Development in UP is low as compared to what could have been done, but there are certain constraints. You can see the state of roads even outside the auditorium," he said.
The Congress general secretary said, in his view, the government's role should be to support industrial growth.
"If the UP government's focus is in the right direction, the state could be developed... there are no shortcomings in the people here," he said.
Earlier, his cavalcade was stopped by women employees of Sheena Textiles, who were demanding that the closed unit be re-opened.
The workers submitted a memorandum to the leader, who assured to look into the matter.
Earlier on his arrival at Amausi airport in Lucknow Rahul was received by senior leaders including Digvijay Singh, UPPCC president Reeta Bahuguna Joshi and CLP leader Pramod Tiwari.
Khurshid says Sonia holds 'real power' though PM in-charge
NEW DELHI: Union Minister Salman Khurshid says that Congress chief Sonia Gandhi holds the 'real power' in the UPA coalition though Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was very much in charge of the government.
"Of course everybody knows that she (Sonia Gandhi) is the real power, but he (Manmohan Singh) is the real Prime Minister," Corporate and Minority Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid told TV channel on its 'Devil's Advocate programme.'
Khurshid's reponse came when he was asked whether the real power in India was Sonia Gandhi and not Singh.
To a question on who between Gandhi and Singh decides whether a Minister continues in Cabinet or not, Khurshid said the Congress president and the Prime Minister decide it "together".
When asked whether it is not infringment of the prerogatives of the Prime Minister with Gandhi also joining him to take decision on a Cabinet Minister, Khurshid said, "no it's not an infringment. Of course he is a Prime Minister, he must take responsibility. But she (Gandhi) is the leader of our party."
To a question why Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit, Urban development minister Jaipal Reddy and sports minister MS Gill should continue in their offices when several agencies are probing the alleged CWG scam, he said, "if there is something that look substantive and serious we take action... But you can't execute a person before you reach a point of final judgement."
Replying to another question whether Prime Minister was weak to ask even one of his five Cabinet Ministers allegedly facing charges of corruption to step down, he said, "you can't say about him that he wo0uldn't want to take action if he was satisfied that we have reached the stage where action is necessary."
"Of course everybody knows that she (Sonia Gandhi) is the real power, but he (Manmohan Singh) is the real Prime Minister," Corporate and Minority Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid told TV channel on its 'Devil's Advocate programme.'
Khurshid's reponse came when he was asked whether the real power in India was Sonia Gandhi and not Singh.
To a question on who between Gandhi and Singh decides whether a Minister continues in Cabinet or not, Khurshid said the Congress president and the Prime Minister decide it "together".
When asked whether it is not infringment of the prerogatives of the Prime Minister with Gandhi also joining him to take decision on a Cabinet Minister, Khurshid said, "no it's not an infringment. Of course he is a Prime Minister, he must take responsibility. But she (Gandhi) is the leader of our party."
To a question why Delhi chief minister Sheila Dikshit, Urban development minister Jaipal Reddy and sports minister MS Gill should continue in their offices when several agencies are probing the alleged CWG scam, he said, "if there is something that look substantive and serious we take action... But you can't execute a person before you reach a point of final judgement."
Replying to another question whether Prime Minister was weak to ask even one of his five Cabinet Ministers allegedly facing charges of corruption to step down, he said, "you can't say about him that he wo0uldn't want to take action if he was satisfied that we have reached the stage where action is necessary."
CWG scam: Kalmadi aides Darbari, Mahendroo arrested
NEW DELHI: The CBI on Monday stepped into the Commonwealth Games corruption muddle and arrested two sacked senior officials of the Games Organising Committee on charges of forgery and cheating relating to the Queen's Baton Relay in London last year.
CBI arrested T S Darbari, former Joint Director General and Sanjay Mahendroo, former Deputy Director General here after it registered two cases in this regard and conducted searches at four premises including the OC headquarters here.
Both Darbari and Mahendroo are considered to be close associates of OC chairman Suresh Kalmadi.
CBI said the first case was registered under different Sections of IPC and Prevention of Corruption Act in relation to the award of contract to London based AM car and Van Hire Ltd at exorbitant rates.
The CBI has named Darbai, Mahendroo, OC Director Raj Singh, Director of transport firm Ashish Patel, and other unknown persons under sections 468 (forgery of court records and public documents), 471 (using forged documents as genuine), 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of IPC and Prevention of Corruption Act.
"It is alleged that the accused officials of OC in conspiracy with the transport firm and its Director awarded work to the said firm at exorbitant rates without following the standard tender process.
The work was awarded on the false premise that the firm was on the panel of Indian High Commission, London. Two emails were allegedly forged by the officials of OC to justify the selection of the firm," a CBI spokesperson said while reading out a statement by the agency before reporters here.
The second case involves London-based A M Films, Patel, Mahendroo, Darbari and others under sections 420 (cheating), 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of IPC and Prevention of Corruption Act.
"It is alleged that the accused officials of the OC in conspiracy with the private firm awarded the work of installation of video screens at the venue of QBR at exorbitant rates. The work was awarded to the firm purportedly on the basis of fake quotations and without following standard procedure," the CBI official said.
He added, "The accused persons caused huge loss to the Government of India and corresponding wrongful gain to the accused firms."
Darbari and Mahendroo were suspended initially after reports of the scam started appearing in the media early this year. Both the officials were sacked later. Both have denied the allegations levelled against them.
Both Darbari and Mahendroo are already facing charges of violation of Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) and have been questioned by the Enforcement Directorate.
The ED had registered its first case under FEMA in CWG after British authorities referred to the Indian High Commission a matter regarding A M Films, a little-known company, to which a huge sum of money was transferred through the Royal Bank of Scotland.
According to the OC documents, the money transaction was justified by the members saying "in view of the short time available and the risk of the cancellation of the QBR event, the Organising Committee decided to compare the quotes (of different vendors in London) and evaluate them, keeping in view the cost and time factor.
"The Committee noted that out of the offers, the offer of A M Films, UK at GBP 127712 exclusive of taxes is cheaper compared to other vendors...The Committee therefore recommends that the lowest offer of the GBP 127712 received from AM Films, UK be accepted," it said.
"The firm has asked for hundred per cent advance payment and in view of the short time available and the risk of event cancellation, the committee recommends that the advance payment of hundred per cent may also be given to the firm (AM Films) to facilitate taking up the work in time," according to the documents.
CBI arrested T S Darbari, former Joint Director General and Sanjay Mahendroo, former Deputy Director General here after it registered two cases in this regard and conducted searches at four premises including the OC headquarters here.
Both Darbari and Mahendroo are considered to be close associates of OC chairman Suresh Kalmadi.
CBI said the first case was registered under different Sections of IPC and Prevention of Corruption Act in relation to the award of contract to London based AM car and Van Hire Ltd at exorbitant rates.
The CBI has named Darbai, Mahendroo, OC Director Raj Singh, Director of transport firm Ashish Patel, and other unknown persons under sections 468 (forgery of court records and public documents), 471 (using forged documents as genuine), 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of IPC and Prevention of Corruption Act.
"It is alleged that the accused officials of OC in conspiracy with the transport firm and its Director awarded work to the said firm at exorbitant rates without following the standard tender process.
The work was awarded on the false premise that the firm was on the panel of Indian High Commission, London. Two emails were allegedly forged by the officials of OC to justify the selection of the firm," a CBI spokesperson said while reading out a statement by the agency before reporters here.
The second case involves London-based A M Films, Patel, Mahendroo, Darbari and others under sections 420 (cheating), 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of IPC and Prevention of Corruption Act.
"It is alleged that the accused officials of the OC in conspiracy with the private firm awarded the work of installation of video screens at the venue of QBR at exorbitant rates. The work was awarded to the firm purportedly on the basis of fake quotations and without following standard procedure," the CBI official said.
He added, "The accused persons caused huge loss to the Government of India and corresponding wrongful gain to the accused firms."
Darbari and Mahendroo were suspended initially after reports of the scam started appearing in the media early this year. Both the officials were sacked later. Both have denied the allegations levelled against them.
Both Darbari and Mahendroo are already facing charges of violation of Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) and have been questioned by the Enforcement Directorate.
The ED had registered its first case under FEMA in CWG after British authorities referred to the Indian High Commission a matter regarding A M Films, a little-known company, to which a huge sum of money was transferred through the Royal Bank of Scotland.
According to the OC documents, the money transaction was justified by the members saying "in view of the short time available and the risk of the cancellation of the QBR event, the Organising Committee decided to compare the quotes (of different vendors in London) and evaluate them, keeping in view the cost and time factor.
"The Committee noted that out of the offers, the offer of A M Films, UK at GBP 127712 exclusive of taxes is cheaper compared to other vendors...The Committee therefore recommends that the lowest offer of the GBP 127712 received from AM Films, UK be accepted," it said.
"The firm has asked for hundred per cent advance payment and in view of the short time available and the risk of event cancellation, the committee recommends that the advance payment of hundred per cent may also be given to the firm (AM Films) to facilitate taking up the work in time," according to the documents.
CWG scam: Emails doctored, Kalmadi aide Darbari arrested
New Delhi: T S Darbari, who was sacked from the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee shortly before the Games began, has been arrested by the CBI.
Darbari was a close aide of Suresh Kalmadi who was Chairman of the Committee.
Registering its first case in alleged irregularities in Commonwealth Games, CBI today filed two separate cases involving UK-based A M Films and former officials of CWG Organising Committee on charges of forgery and cheating in organising Queen's Baton Relay in London.
Immediately after registering the cases, the CBI carried out searches at four places in the national capital region including office of CWG Organising Committee, agency officials said.
Darbari was a close aide of Suresh Kalmadi who was Chairman of the Committee.
Registering its first case in alleged irregularities in Commonwealth Games, CBI today filed two separate cases involving UK-based A M Films and former officials of CWG Organising Committee on charges of forgery and cheating in organising Queen's Baton Relay in London.
Immediately after registering the cases, the CBI carried out searches at four places in the national capital region including office of CWG Organising Committee, agency officials said.
The searches were conducted at the residence of sacked Joint Director General T S Darbari, deputy director-general Sanjay Mahendroo and Raj Singh, a Director level officer in the OC, the officials said.
Darbari and Mahendroo were suspended initially after reports of scam started appearing in the media. Both the officials were sacked later.
The first case names London-based A M Car/Van Services and its owner Ashish Patel besides Darbari, Mahendroo and Singh under sections 468 (forgery of court records and public documents), 471 (Using forged documents as genuine), 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of IPC and Prevention of Corruption Act.
The second case involves London-based A M Films, Patel, Mahendroo, Darbari and others under sections 420 (cheating), 120-B (criminal conspiracy) of IPC and Prevention of Corruption Act.
As searches were on, the sacked officials were being questioned by the CBI about the Queen Baton Relay for which a grand function was held in London.
The CBI had started looking into complaints related to alleged irregularities in Queen's Baton Relay (QBR) event and is examining documents pertaining to it, including those related to transfer of funds.
The Enforcement Directorate had registered its first case under FEMA in CWG after British authorities referred to the Indian High Commission a matter regarding A M Films, a little-known London-based company, to which a huge sum of money was transferred through the Royal Bank of Scotland.
According to the OC documents, the money transaction was justified by the members saying "in view of the short time available and the risk of the cancellation of the QBR event, the Committee decided to compare the quotes (of different vendors in London) and evaluate them, keeping in view the cost and time factor.
"The Committee noted that out of the offers, the offer of A M Films, UK at GBP 127712 exclusive of taxes is cheaper compared to other vendors...The Committee therefore recommends that the lowest offer of the GBP 127712 received from AM Films, UK be accepted," it said.
"The firm has asked for hundred per cent advanced payment and in view of the short time available and the risk of event cancellation, the committee recommends that the advance payment of hundred per cent may also be given to the firm (AM Films) to facilitate taking up the work in time," according to the documents.
Congress Hand in CWG Scam, Alleges BJP's Somaiya
BJP leader Kirit Somaiya today alleged that an aide of Rahul Gandhi helped a private construction firm earn crores of rupees in a Commonwealth Games related project.
He also demanded resignation of Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit and Union Urban Development Minister Jaipal Reddy and a CBI probe against all officials and political leaders involved in the scam.
At a press conference here, Somaiaya alleged that Kanishka Singh, secretary to a Congress General Secretary, played a key role in getting 'Emaar MGF Construction Pvt Ltd' contracts from Delhi Development Authority(DDA) for construction works in games village.
However, Somaiya did not name the General Secretary of Congress, in whose office Kanishka Singh is the secretary.
Kanishka Singh on his part said he has absolutely nothing to do with the matter and whether officials of DDA were involved with Emaar-MGF or not, is under investigation by the agencies.
The BJP's allegations are entirely baseless, false and with an ulterior purpose, he said
He also demanded resignation of Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit and Union Urban Development Minister Jaipal Reddy and a CBI probe against all officials and political leaders involved in the scam.
At a press conference here, Somaiaya alleged that Kanishka Singh, secretary to a Congress General Secretary, played a key role in getting 'Emaar MGF Construction Pvt Ltd' contracts from Delhi Development Authority(DDA) for construction works in games village.
However, Somaiya did not name the General Secretary of Congress, in whose office Kanishka Singh is the secretary.
Kanishka Singh on his part said he has absolutely nothing to do with the matter and whether officials of DDA were involved with Emaar-MGF or not, is under investigation by the agencies.
The BJP's allegations are entirely baseless, false and with an ulterior purpose, he said
No compromise till JPC ordered in 2G, Adarsh, CWG scams: BJP
Irked by the government's rejection of a JPC probe in 2G spectrum allocation, BJP today said there would be no compromise till such a panel was formed to go into the case and scams in Adarsh housing society and CWG projects. "We demand a JPC probe into the three scams. We stand by it. There will be no compromise till the JPC is formed," deputy leader of BJP in Rajya Sabha S S Ahluwalia told reporters here. His remarks came after the government rejected the opposition's demand for a JPC probe into the 2G spectrum allocation issue saying it was "meaningless".
He said the executive committee of BJP Parliamentary party met this morning followed by a meeting of NDA leaders, where it was decided that the opposition would continue to press for setting up of a JPC. "Besides the NDA, some other opposition parties are demanding a JPC. This demand is now coming from four corners. Now everyone (all opposition parties) is demanding it", Ahluwalia claimed.
On whether Parliament will not be allowed to function till their demands are met, he said, "Running the House is the government's task. Our responsibility is to help it. We will not extend our help till our demands are met."
Asked if by demanding a JPC probe the BJP was showing its lack of confidence in senior party leader Murli Manohar Joshi, who heads the Public Accounts Committee, Ahluwalia said the PAC is meant for "post-mortem of CAG report. It does not probe. The JPC on the other hand has its own terms of reference. It has the mandate of the House, on which it works."
Ahluwalia wondered whether the issue of BJP lacking confidence in Joshi was being raked up by the ruling party to divide the opposition. He said a JPC was formed into the Bofors scam though there was a CAG report on the issue and added, "NDA had formed a JPC on Pepsi cola and had made present Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar its chairman."
When reminded that there was no JPC probe into the Tehelka sting operation, in which former BJP president Bangaru Laxman was allegedly involved, Ahluwalia said, "Tehelka was a sting operation and government rules were not bent to favour anyone."
To a question on DMK's reported demand that JPC should probe issuance of 2G spectrum licences since 1999, the BJP leader said the party would support such a move. About the land-related controversy allegedly involving Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yedurappa's son, he said, "There is no authentic report against Yeddyurappa and the Lok Pal in the state is competent to carry out an authentic probe. If anybody is guilty he will not be spared."
Friday, November 12, 2010
Uttar Pradesh: 40 school children injured after bus overturns
Kaushambi: At least 40 children were injured when a school bus carrying them overturned after colliding with a truck on GT road in Saini area, a senior officer said.
The incident occurred on Friday morning when the bus of Udhav Shyam Inter College overturned after being hit by the truck near Kachwa turn, Superintendent of Police Kripa Shanker Singh said.
He said that 60 children were in the bus at the time of the accident.
The injured have been admitted to the district hospital from where five children having serious injuries were referred to Allahabad for treatment, Singh said, adding that the truck has been impounded.
The incident occurred on Friday morning when the bus of Udhav Shyam Inter College overturned after being hit by the truck near Kachwa turn, Superintendent of Police Kripa Shanker Singh said.
He said that 60 children were in the bus at the time of the accident.
The injured have been admitted to the district hospital from where five children having serious injuries were referred to Allahabad for treatment, Singh said, adding that the truck has been impounded.
India has taken up IDPs’ issue with Sri Lanka: Sonia
Chennai: Expressing concern over some of the displaced Tamil civilians still being lodged in camps in Sri Lanka, Congress president Sonia Gandhi has said India has taken up the matter with that country so that they are moved out of the camps at the earliest.
In her reply to a letter written by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi on the issue, Gandhi said the Indian government was extending whatever humanitarian and resettlement assistance possible to alleviate hardships faced by the displaced Tamil civilians.
In her reply to a letter written by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi on the issue, Gandhi said the Indian government was extending whatever humanitarian and resettlement assistance possible to alleviate hardships faced by the displaced Tamil civilians.
The issue of resettlement and rehabilitation as well as reconstruction process in the war ravaged areas had been taken up at an appropriate level in Sri Lanka so that the civilians would be able to move out of the camps at the earliest, she said in the letter.
Around 25,000 of the total 2.90 lakh Tamil civilians displaced due to the civil war are still lodged in various camps in Sri Lanka.
Karunanidhi, whose DMK is part of the UPA government, had written to Gandhi on October 8 in this regard.
Sonia Gandhi's letter to the DMK chief was released to the media by the state government today.
Around 25,000 of the total 2.90 lakh Tamil civilians displaced due to the civil war are still lodged in various camps in Sri Lanka.
Karunanidhi, whose DMK is part of the UPA government, had written to Gandhi on October 8 in this regard.
Sonia Gandhi's letter to the DMK chief was released to the media by the state government today.
Africa keen to learn from Indian elections: Zambian poll chief
New Delhi, Nov 12 : African countries are increasingly looking at India as a model democracy and an example to emulate, says Zambia's poll panel chief, Justice Florence N.M. Mumba, who is here to study electoral practices.
"We have come here to look at the electoral system in India and how the democratic system functions in India. India is the world's largest democracy," Mumba told IANS in an interview.
She is the chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Zambia, a landlocked country of around 12 million people in southern Africa.
"You manage your elections well. The EVMs (electronic voting machines) have been extremely successful in ensuring free elections. We can exchange our experiences and collaborate in training electoral personnel," she said.
Mumba shared Zambia's experience of holding elections and sought India's expertise in training of poll personnel when she met India's Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi.
Zambia boasts of the world's largest reserves of copper and is home to the spectacular Victoria Falls. It will hold presidential elections next year. India is the largest investor in Zambia, with Vedanta Resources having invested USD 1.5 billion in the Konkola Copper Mines (KCM).
Mumba is accompanied by Commissioner Minerva K. Tembo on her 10-day visit to India that includes stops in Delhi and Mumbai. They have been invited by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), the cultural arm of India's external affairs ministry.
Mumba also met Minister of State for External Affairs Preneet Kaur to discuss the broader canvas of India-Zambia relations.
Mumba is upbeat about the prospects of democracy in Africa, but chooses to be a realist, saying the process is going to be an incremental one. "It's a slow progress. We are getting there. More countries are having regular multi-party elections," she said.
Mumba's visit to India comes at a time when more African countries are moving in the direction of democracy. About two-thirds of African countries have held multi-party elections and more than 30 countries have accepted the African Peer Review Mechanism, that judges ruling dispensations by standards of transparency and accountability.
She is the chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Zambia, a landlocked country of around 12 million people in southern Africa.
"You manage your elections well. The EVMs (electronic voting machines) have been extremely successful in ensuring free elections. We can exchange our experiences and collaborate in training electoral personnel," she said.
Mumba shared Zambia's experience of holding elections and sought India's expertise in training of poll personnel when she met India's Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi.
Zambia boasts of the world's largest reserves of copper and is home to the spectacular Victoria Falls. It will hold presidential elections next year. India is the largest investor in Zambia, with Vedanta Resources having invested USD 1.5 billion in the Konkola Copper Mines (KCM).
Mumba is accompanied by Commissioner Minerva K. Tembo on her 10-day visit to India that includes stops in Delhi and Mumbai. They have been invited by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), the cultural arm of India's external affairs ministry.
Mumba also met Minister of State for External Affairs Preneet Kaur to discuss the broader canvas of India-Zambia relations.
Mumba is upbeat about the prospects of democracy in Africa, but chooses to be a realist, saying the process is going to be an incremental one. "It's a slow progress. We are getting there. More countries are having regular multi-party elections," she said.
Mumba's visit to India comes at a time when more African countries are moving in the direction of democracy. About two-thirds of African countries have held multi-party elections and more than 30 countries have accepted the African Peer Review Mechanism, that judges ruling dispensations by standards of transparency and accountability.
Manmohan Singh asks G-20 nations to avoid competitive devaluation of currency
Seoul, Nov 12 : The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, on Friday urged G-20 countries to avoid competitive devaluation of currencies at all costs and resist any resurgence in protectionism.
Addressing the plenary session of the fifth G-20 Summit in Seoul this morning, Dr. Singh said: "Advance deficit countries must follow policy of fiscal consolidation. This should be consistent with their individual circumstances to ensure debt sustainability over the medium term."
"While structural reforms are necessary everywhere, these should increase efficiency and competitiveness in deficit countries, while expanding internal demand in surplus countries. This rebalancing will take time, but it must begin," he added.
He said the exchange rate flexibility is an important instrument for achieving a sustainable current account position and the policies must reflect this consideration.
"Recycling surplus savings into investment in developing countries will not only address the immediate demand imbalance but it will also help to address developmental imbalances," he added.
Expressing confidence that G-20 will be able to translate the rich agenda before the summit into tangible outcome under the forthcoming presidency of France, he said: "The G-20 was an apt response to an adverse situation that the world faced."
Dr. Singh further complimented the South Korean presidency for the initiative it took to include development as an accepted item in the agenda of the G-20.
"The G-20 was born at the time of a crisis and as such it has been preoccupied with the short term agenda of crisis management and global rebalancing. However, one of the biggest imbalances facing us the development imbalance and putting development on the G-20 agenda fills an important gap," he added.
He said developing countries performed well in the years before the crisis and have also done well in subsequent years.
"However, we need to ensure that the global economic environment, including especially the environment for trade, and investment flows remains strongly supportive of development," Dr. Singh said.
Dr. Singh said the Seoul Development Consensus and the associated Multi- Year Action Plans, which are before the G-20 countries provide a comprehensive agenda with timelines, which should be pursued in all relevant fora in the months ahead.
"I am particularly happy to endorse the focus on facilitating investment in national and regional infrastructure projects and the call for establishing a High Level Panel to recommend measures to mobilise private, semi-public and public resources for infrastructure investment and to review MDB policy in this area," he said.
"While structural reforms are necessary everywhere, these should increase efficiency and competitiveness in deficit countries, while expanding internal demand in surplus countries. This rebalancing will take time, but it must begin," he added.
He said the exchange rate flexibility is an important instrument for achieving a sustainable current account position and the policies must reflect this consideration.
"Recycling surplus savings into investment in developing countries will not only address the immediate demand imbalance but it will also help to address developmental imbalances," he added.
Expressing confidence that G-20 will be able to translate the rich agenda before the summit into tangible outcome under the forthcoming presidency of France, he said: "The G-20 was an apt response to an adverse situation that the world faced."
Dr. Singh further complimented the South Korean presidency for the initiative it took to include development as an accepted item in the agenda of the G-20.
"The G-20 was born at the time of a crisis and as such it has been preoccupied with the short term agenda of crisis management and global rebalancing. However, one of the biggest imbalances facing us the development imbalance and putting development on the G-20 agenda fills an important gap," he added.
He said developing countries performed well in the years before the crisis and have also done well in subsequent years.
"However, we need to ensure that the global economic environment, including especially the environment for trade, and investment flows remains strongly supportive of development," Dr. Singh said.
Dr. Singh said the Seoul Development Consensus and the associated Multi- Year Action Plans, which are before the G-20 countries provide a comprehensive agenda with timelines, which should be pursued in all relevant fora in the months ahead.
"I am particularly happy to endorse the focus on facilitating investment in national and regional infrastructure projects and the call for establishing a High Level Panel to recommend measures to mobilise private, semi-public and public resources for infrastructure investment and to review MDB policy in this area," he said.
Economy set to grow nine percent in 2011-12: Manmohan Singh
Seoul, Nov 12 : The Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Friday said India will revert to its pre-crisis economic growth rate of nine per cent in the next fiscal.
Addressing the plenary session of the fifth G-20 Summit in Seoul this morning, Dr. Singh said: "I am happy to say that the Indian economy has rebounded fairly well from the crisis... We hope to achieve nine per cent growth in 2011-12."
As regards the current fiscal, Dr. Singh said the country was likely to clock 8.5 per cent growth rate, up from 7.4 per cent in 2009-10.
"India was growing at nine per cent before the financial meltdown in 2008 hit the world economies and slowed growth," he said
"We grew at nine per cent in the four years prior to the crisis, but slowed down to 6.7 per cent in the 2008-09," Dr. Singh said, adding the emerging economies in Asia are now doing well.
He further said that the economic performance of emerging markets, including many countries in sub-Saharan Africa, has improved greatly in recent years.
"These countries are now in a position to absorb capital flows aimed at an expansion in investment, which would inject much needed demand into the global economy," he said.
"Many emerging market countries are also in a position to attract private investment, including into infrastructure," he added.
He further said that high unemployment in industrialized countries threatens a revival of protectionist sentiment, especially since the use of conventional monetary and fiscal tools to revive the economy has been exhausted.
"Uncertainty about the prospects of industrialized countries affects the investment climate and dampens the medium term growth prospects of emerging market countries All this suggests that much remains to be done to bring our economies back to the path of strong, sustainable and balanced growth," he added.
As regards the current fiscal, Dr. Singh said the country was likely to clock 8.5 per cent growth rate, up from 7.4 per cent in 2009-10.
"India was growing at nine per cent before the financial meltdown in 2008 hit the world economies and slowed growth," he said
"We grew at nine per cent in the four years prior to the crisis, but slowed down to 6.7 per cent in the 2008-09," Dr. Singh said, adding the emerging economies in Asia are now doing well.
He further said that the economic performance of emerging markets, including many countries in sub-Saharan Africa, has improved greatly in recent years.
"These countries are now in a position to absorb capital flows aimed at an expansion in investment, which would inject much needed demand into the global economy," he said.
"Many emerging market countries are also in a position to attract private investment, including into infrastructure," he added.
He further said that high unemployment in industrialized countries threatens a revival of protectionist sentiment, especially since the use of conventional monetary and fiscal tools to revive the economy has been exhausted.
"Uncertainty about the prospects of industrialized countries affects the investment climate and dampens the medium term growth prospects of emerging market countries All this suggests that much remains to be done to bring our economies back to the path of strong, sustainable and balanced growth," he added.
No question of resigning: A Raja
New Delhi, Nov 12 : Stating that requisite norms were followed in allocation of 2G spectrum, Telecom Minister A Raja today said there was no question of him resigning.
Maintaining that no rules were violated in the allocation of the 2G spectrum licence, the Minister, speaking on the sidelines of a function here said, ''I only followed the rules and the telecom policy fixed by the Cabinet in 1999. I am ready for an inquiry.'' Under pressure to step down following allegations of corruption in the 2G spectrum case and his indictment by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG), Mr Raja Said, ''I have not seen CAG report yet. It is not tabled in Parliament. There is a procedure and investigation is on into the matter. It may not be fair of me to comment on it.'' Ruling out his resignation on the issue, he said, ''There is no question of my resignation as 2G spectrum case is sub-judice.'' Asked to comment on AIADMK chief J Jayalalithaa's open offer for support to the UPA, Raja said, ''She is trying to save her own skin, she is facing corruption charges herself. She has no moral right to offer support to the UPA.'' Raja is under fire for alleged irregularities in allotment of 2G spectrum in 2008.
The Opposition has been disrupting Parliament demanding that Raja be sacked.
The Opposition has been disrupting Parliament demanding that Raja be sacked.
Not regrouping in India, says LTTE letter to PC
New Delhi, Nov 12 : Sri Lanka's Tamil Tigers have shot off a letter to Union Home Minister P Chidambaram, saying they are not making any attempt to regroup and are not engaged in any illegal activity in this country either.
In an open letter, dated November 5 to Mr Chidambaram, the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) has also dismissed as 'totally untrue' claims by Indian officials that the Tigers had links with Indian Maoists.
The letter's copies have also been dispatched to External Affairs Minister S M Krishna and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, sources told UNI here today.
The letter is undersigned by R M Supan, Coordinator of LTTE Head Office. Supan is believed to be the nom de guerre of the person heading the media wing of what remains of the LTTE, which has ceased to exist in Sri Lanka but whose supporters remain active primarily in the West. ''We totally reject and strongly condemn the malicious statements linking us with foreign armed groups; the recent statements by Indian officials that we have links with Maoist groups in (India are) totally untrue,'' the letter read.
It said LTTE members and supporters were being prevented from stating their defence in India or in foreign countries. ''We request that we be given the opportunity to explain our cause. We are ready to answer all accusations against us in a court of law.'' The LTTE's salvo to Mr Chidambaram underlined that the Tigers had not indulged in any armed activity since May 2009. It accused the Sri Lankan government and certain other agencies of using ''Our name and some of our fighters who had surrendered for destructive activities''.
''These actions of the government are being manipulated by neighbouring countries and even certain foreign countries to suit their convenience,'' said the letter.
The letter's copies have also been dispatched to External Affairs Minister S M Krishna and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, sources told UNI here today.
The letter is undersigned by R M Supan, Coordinator of LTTE Head Office. Supan is believed to be the nom de guerre of the person heading the media wing of what remains of the LTTE, which has ceased to exist in Sri Lanka but whose supporters remain active primarily in the West. ''We totally reject and strongly condemn the malicious statements linking us with foreign armed groups; the recent statements by Indian officials that we have links with Maoist groups in (India are) totally untrue,'' the letter read.
It said LTTE members and supporters were being prevented from stating their defence in India or in foreign countries. ''We request that we be given the opportunity to explain our cause. We are ready to answer all accusations against us in a court of law.'' The LTTE's salvo to Mr Chidambaram underlined that the Tigers had not indulged in any armed activity since May 2009. It accused the Sri Lankan government and certain other agencies of using ''Our name and some of our fighters who had surrendered for destructive activities''.
''These actions of the government are being manipulated by neighbouring countries and even certain foreign countries to suit their convenience,'' said the letter.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
India, China make competition for oil intense India, China make competition for oil intense
DUBAI: Demand growth in China and India makes the competition for available oil resources more intense, as oil demand growth in these countries will be over half the growth in global demand between 2025 and 2050, experts at a conference here said.
According to panelists at the 16th Annual Energy Conference organised by the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR), this demand will spread to all other forms of energy and will have enormous impact on markets for exportable oil.
These nations will depend on imports for three quarters of their consumption by 2035, by which time the US, Japan, OECD Europe, China and India will need imports of over 40 mbpd, a 25 per cent increase from 2005.
There will be insufficient oil to satisfy global needs by then. This will make the competition to secure oil supplies extremely intense.
The US and China are in growing competition, usually involving transfers of military equipment and development funds to cement the supplier-consumer relationship, they added.
These supplies are often costly to develop, but the desperation of international oil companies forces them to pursue ever more expensive supplies, including unconventional sources.
Energy scarcity must be dealt with and the fact that one quarter of the world's population lacks access to electricity is a geopolitical time-bomb, they concluded.
Outlook and Challenges was the focus on the second day of the conference.
Arne Walther, former Secretary General of the International Energy Forum (IEF), said concerns about the geopolitics of oil stemmed from the fact that governments need oil as a means to propel economic and social development, and citizens of oil exporting states expect their governments to pass on the benefits of resource extraction.
"Investment in energy production must be made during times of abundance. Competition for energy resources among consumers will increase, as will competition among producers of different types of energy," he added
.
According to panelists at the 16th Annual Energy Conference organised by the Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR), this demand will spread to all other forms of energy and will have enormous impact on markets for exportable oil.
These nations will depend on imports for three quarters of their consumption by 2035, by which time the US, Japan, OECD Europe, China and India will need imports of over 40 mbpd, a 25 per cent increase from 2005.
There will be insufficient oil to satisfy global needs by then. This will make the competition to secure oil supplies extremely intense.
The US and China are in growing competition, usually involving transfers of military equipment and development funds to cement the supplier-consumer relationship, they added.
These supplies are often costly to develop, but the desperation of international oil companies forces them to pursue ever more expensive supplies, including unconventional sources.
Energy scarcity must be dealt with and the fact that one quarter of the world's population lacks access to electricity is a geopolitical time-bomb, they concluded.
Outlook and Challenges was the focus on the second day of the conference.
Arne Walther, former Secretary General of the International Energy Forum (IEF), said concerns about the geopolitics of oil stemmed from the fact that governments need oil as a means to propel economic and social development, and citizens of oil exporting states expect their governments to pass on the benefits of resource extraction.
"Investment in energy production must be made during times of abundance. Competition for energy resources among consumers will increase, as will competition among producers of different types of energy," he added
.
Parents seek permission to sell their kidneys
Kanpur: The parents of a sick teenager in Kanpur have asked a local court to permit them to sell their kidneys so that they can raise the money needed for his treatment.
14-year-old Anuj Behl has aplastic anemia - a disorder in which the body does not produce new blood cells. He needs a bone marrow transplant - that and other medical attention that he needs could cost upto 25 lakhs, say doctors.
"We don't even have enough to eat. We appeal to our countrymen to help us save our son's life," said Sangeeta Behl, mother.
Anuj's father is a scooter mechanic and the only earning member of his family of five.
14-year-old Anuj Behl has aplastic anemia - a disorder in which the body does not produce new blood cells. He needs a bone marrow transplant - that and other medical attention that he needs could cost upto 25 lakhs, say doctors.
"We don't even have enough to eat. We appeal to our countrymen to help us save our son's life," said Sangeeta Behl, mother.
Anuj's father is a scooter mechanic and the only earning member of his family of five.
The son's treatment has literally driven them out on the streets. Every valuable in the house sold, the two daughters are forced to beg and polish shoes.
"Every month we have to arrange 6-7 bottles of blood for him," said Manish Behl, father.
In court today, the government said it has deposited 1.5 lakhs for Anuj's treatment at the Sanjay Gandhi PGI Hospital in Lucknow - a baffling attempt at help because this hospital reportedly does not have the expertise to treat aplastic anaemia.
"The state government has deposited Rs. 1.5 lakh at the Sanjay Gandhi PGI Hospital in Lucknow and will give more financial support if required," District Magistrate Mukesh Meshram said.
The court is expected to hear Anuj's parents' appeal on the 26th of this month.
How You Can Help
Should you want to donate to this family, you can send a cheque in the name of:
Sangeeta Behl
Punjab National Bank
A/C: 2340000100212519
For more information, contact Maneesh Behl at 092358-31083
Another 'secret' Rahul Gandhi visit to Uttar Pradesh
Lucknow: He's becoming somewhat of an expert at under-the-radar visits to and from Uttar Pradesh. Impressive, given that Rahul Gandhi is one of India's most recognized and tracked personalities.
Today, he landed unexpectedly in Lucknow on a Jet Lite flight. His nine Special Protection Guards travelled with him in three SUVs to the Anandi Water park to address a group of new officer bearers of the Youth Congress.
We did not know that he was coming, we only got to know once he landed. He did not inform us," said Home Secretary Anand Kumar, sounding somewhat weary.
That's the second time this month that the local police and district administration have been excluded from details of Gandhi's itinerary. He travelled a few weeks ago by sleeper coach from UP to Mumbai.
Today, he landed unexpectedly in Lucknow on a Jet Lite flight. His nine Special Protection Guards travelled with him in three SUVs to the Anandi Water park to address a group of new officer bearers of the Youth Congress.
We did not know that he was coming, we only got to know once he landed. He did not inform us," said Home Secretary Anand Kumar, sounding somewhat weary.
That's the second time this month that the local police and district administration have been excluded from details of Gandhi's itinerary. He travelled a few weeks ago by sleeper coach from UP to Mumbai.
The UP police had officially protested about the fact that they had not been told of his visit.
Mayawati's government has warned repeatedly that if Gandhi exposes himself to security risks by not sharing his plans with the local police, the state government cannot be held responsible should something go wrong.
When the state government is involved with his visits to UP, it provides facilities like an ambulance as part of Gandhi's convoy -these additional security features are obligatory for politicians protected by the Special Protection Guard (SPG).
Posters at the venue of his meeting welcomed Gandhi - suggesting that at least some of those who helped organize it were expecting the Congress General Secretary.
When asked, however, they said they were unaware that he would address the meeting.
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