Ration scarcity, ‘irregularities’ in BPL lists rocks Assembly

Greater Kashmir

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, Mar 2: The shortage of ration supply and alleged irregularities in Below Poverty Line (BPL) lists across Jammu and Kashmir rocked assembly on Tuesday forcing Speaker Muhammad Akbar Lone to allow half hour discussion over the issue.
The opposition targeted the minister for Consumer Affairs and Public Distribution Qamar Ali Akhoon on alleged scarcity of ration across the state and ‘irregularities’ in the issuance of BPL list.
Replying to the clubbed questions of PDP MLA Peerzada Mansoor Ahmed, Prof Gharu Ram Bhagat and Bharat Bhushan, Akhoon said the re-verification of BPL lists in each district was being carried out by authorized Committees, headed by respective DDCs.
Admitting the cases of irregularities in BPL list have come to his notice, Akhoon said the government had already constituted a committee for the re-verification of the lists.
The opposition members from NPP, BJP and PDP took strong notice of the admission by the minister about the irregularity and started protest.
Replying to a supplementary, Akhoon said the government has decided to enhance the ration to 50 kgs against the existing scale of 35 kgs per ration card.

TARIGAMI, ZULFIKAR STAGE WALKOUTS
The assembly witnessed at least two walkouts by the opposition members after government failed to `satisfy’ them on different issues.
Senior CPI (M) leader and MLA Yousaf Tarigami’s raised the issue of inadequate availability of electricity in district Kulgam though his calling attention notice.
He protested the ‘unsatisfactory reply’ of the minister and said that the reply was nothing but jugglery of figures. Tarigami torn the written reply and walked out of the house
Choudhary Zulfikar Ali was second to stage a walkout after CAPD Minister Qamar Ali Akhoon failed to satisfy him. He had raised the issue of inadequate supply of ration in tehsil Budhal of district Rajouri.

AZAD’S NAME FIGURES IN ASSEMBLY
Union Health Minister and former chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir Ghulam Nabi Azad figured in state legislative assembly, here on Tuesday, leading to a war of words between BJP and Congress. Raising his concern over the deteriorating condition of District Hospital in Kishtwar, BJP MLA Chaman Lal Gupta said the government was indifferent towards the area despite the fact that it is the home constituency of union health minister.

JU closed after clashes

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, Mar 2: The University of Jammu on Tuesday was closed for an indefinite period following a violent clash, between police and college students, demanding ‘open choice’ in the three years under graduate courses within the Campus.

About 12 college students allegedly involved in damaging the varsity property were reportedly detained by police and who later filed an FIR against them.
Taking cognizance of the incident, Vice-Chancellor Prof Varun Sahni immediately ordered to close the campus.
“The campus was closed after the clash took place,” an official told Greater Kashmir, adding, “The vice-chancellor has said that, if employees and students in the campus are not safe than how campus can work smoothly.”
A high level meeting chaired by vice-chancellor was in progress when the reports last came in.

Report said that four employees of non-teaching staff were injured in the incident.

“University property was damaged in stone pelting,” eyewitnesses said.

FRESH RAINFALL 6 houses collapse, Chenab continue to fluctuate near danger mark;331 families affected in Kishtwar; 2 flights cancelled

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, Aug 8: While fresh rains this forenoon, after a brief lull, led to collapse of half a dozen structures across Jammu city and the water level in Chenab River continue to fluctuate near the danger mark of 35 feet, at least 331 families were affected in flash flood, which washes away around 1500 kanals of land in Marwah area of Kishtwar district.

Heavy downpour that continued for over one and a half hour also forced disruption of vehicular traffic on Jammu-Poonch highway and landing of flights at Jammu airport.

Like previous days most of the roads in Jammu city were submerged during the rainfall. The rain water, as per the eyewitnesses, also gushed into the residential houses and shops in several localities.

Official sources revealed around 331 families were affected following a flash flood which struck in a local nallah in Marwah- a remote area in district Kishtwar-triggered due to heavy down pour.

“The flash flood struck Charju village of the tehsil, late last night, affecting at least two hamlets”, Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar GR Bhagat told Greater Kashmir, over phone.

Though no loss of life or property was reported, till now, report from the area reveals that a fresh flash flood in the Nallah could lead to disaster. Around 1500 kanals of the land was washed away in the flood but villagers were safe, he added.

“I am personally leading a team of official, including from health and engineering wings, to the area to access the loss the help the affected people”, he said

Confirming the reports, Divisional Commissioner (Jammu) Dr Pawan Kotwal told Greater Kashmir that the situation was under control in the area and a team of officials will be visiting the village.

Referring to the people living along the Chenab River, he said that two days back the authorities had sounded an alert in the low line areas in tehsil Akhnoor i.e. Darkhal, and Natyal after flash flood water gushed in some houses. Today, he said that the Chenab was flowing below the danger mark.

However, Jammu-Srinagar highway remained opened throughout the day with no reports of traffic disruption from any place along the 300km artery road.

Hundreds of vehicles stranded on Jammu-Poonch national near Akhnoor along the mighty Chenab River for over half-an-hour due to heavy rainfall. However the normal traffic was restored on the said highway after the rains stopped.

The officials in flood control department said that the maximum level in Chenab was recorded at 33 feet during the down pour and which aftermath showed a receding trend as by 4 pm, the water level came down to 32 feet.

“The people leaving along Tawi, Chenab, Basanter, and Ujja rivers have been kept on high alert following the prediction of more thundershowers in next 24 hours” official sources said.

Due to prevailing inclement weather condition in Jammu, two flights could not land at Jammu Air Port on time because of low visibility in the afternoon.

“The Spice Jet flight carrying passengers from Srinagar could not land on the scheduled time of 12 noon due to low visibility and it was diverted to New Delhi and later the same flight returned in the evening,” SP Airport ML Mehra told Greater Kashmir.

SP Mehra said that another flight of Kingfisher, from Chandigarh was also diverted to Srinagar as it too failed to land on the run way in Jammu airport. Later, both these flights made successful landing after the weather was clear. He, however, said that expect these two flights rest of the air traffic was normal and no other disturbance was caused during the day.

Peeper guns fail to quell Kashmir protestors ‘Non lethal’ weaponry given to JKP for ‘field trial’

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, Aug 12: After the much hyped pepper gun was not able to yield desirable results to control the protesters in Kashmir valley during the current spate of violence, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has handed over these guns to the Jammu and Kashmir Police for its trial use.

Official sources told Greater Kashmir that the CRPF troopers used the pepper-guns at several places in Kashmir to disperse the stone palters, but the weapon failed to prove effective in quelling the agitating mob.

“The pepper guns did not yield desirable results against the stone palters or demonstrators in the state,” official sources said.

They said that the shots of pepper guns were successful and yield results in the countries where the demonstrators or protestors have "sensitive skin" while it failed to work on the skin of Kashmiri people as they are "tough people".

Sources said that the pepper guns emit super-irritant to disperse the protesters without causing them fatal injury. The central force CRPF used the weapon against the demonstrators in different parts of valley but results were not much encouraging.

After failing on the ground, the CRPF finally decided to hand over the non-lethal weapon to the JK police for its long field trial.

“We have handed over the task to use pepper guns on the protesters in Kashmir valley to JK police ten days back for its field trial,” Special Director General (CRPF) N K Tripathi told Greater Kashmir.

The Special DG (CRPF) said that: “Near about 12 pepper guns have been handed over to the police and we will seek a report from them (police) concerning its results after a month.”

While refuting the reports that the non-lethal gun (pepper gun) has failed to yield results in valley on the protesters, Tripathi said that, “It cannot be said that the weapon has failed in valley. But it will take some time that is why we have handed over the weapon to police for its long field trial.

He said that police is much capable to carry out its trial on the demonstrators in valley as they comparatively are in close contact with the public then CRPF, as the central force is called in, to help the local police, only when the situation turns worse.

CRPF received Pepper guns from Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) in the first week of July for a trial when there were large scale protests throughout the valley.

Brilliant student ends up behind bars

Greater Kashmir

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, Aug 22: Brilliant in studies, Sheetal Gupta - one among the seven imposters arrested by police yesterday from an examination centre in Jammu University - has qualified the medical entrance exams at her home city Bhopal where she was likely to get admission in one of the two reputed government medical colleges.

The girl is one of the seven persons, who landed up in police custody on Saturday. She was appearing in place of a candidate in ASCOMS.
The accused has told her interrogators that she belongs to a highly qualified family and is the youngest among four siblings and is good at studies since her childhood. Her father Ashok Kumar Gupta of Malviya Nagar (Bhopal) is a retiree from a private company.
“Her elder brother is a Master in Business Administration (MBA), her sister is working as an engineer in a private company, while another is also pursuing higher studies,” she informed to police. Since her family had spent huge amount on her studies, sources said that Sheetal had a desire to help her family financially by earning some quick bucks and pursue her studies on her own.
This desire put the `sober’ and `intelligent’ girl behind the bars and now she is facing charges under 419, 420, 2/5 of prevention of unfair means in examination here in Jammu.
Sources said that the unfortunate girl met the kingpin Kunj Behari (agent) last year and both remained in frequent contact with each other on mobile phone, since then.
“The agent-Kunj Behari- who was also taking tuitions for PMT was seeking help from her (Sheetal) concerning his studies,” sources said.
Following the telephonic relations, Sheetal entered into a deal with Kunj Behari and agreed to appear for the entrance test of a private medical college in Jammu on behalf of another student. “The agent had promised to pay Rs 15, 000 after the result, while all the travel and accommodation expenses will be her own,” the sources said.
Initially, the girl became suspicious and denied. “He (agent), however, assured her that nothing wrong will happen,” the sources said.
She was received at on the day of examination (August 21) by Kunj Bihari. The distressed girl told her interrogators that she was unaware about the student on whose behalf she was appearing.
However, she was arrested following the complaint by the invigilators of Jammu University to police after they found that she was appearing for Arish Kiran daughter of Ajit Kumar of Janipur. She was arrested along with six others

Infant among 3 killed, 5 hurt in ‘mysterious’ Jammu blast

Greater Kashmir

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, Nov 26: Three persons, including an infant, were killed and five member of a family were injured in a ‘mysterious’ explosion in their house in Jammu outskirts on Friday morning.

The powerful explosion, in the house of a former Border Security Force (BSF) official, reportedly took place, when some of the family members were fiddling with some explosive device, early this morning, but the injured family members insist it was the LPG cylinder, which bursts after catching fire.

An infant, identified as Lovely, died on the spot and seven others were injured, three of them critically, they said, adding that one of them later succumbed to injuries in a hospital. Another critically wounded villager later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital.

Eyewitnesses said that the explosion took place in the house of Harbans Singh son of Alok Singh of village Kotli Chadka in Bishanah teshsil, at around 8.30 a.m.

The big bang was heard in the radius of around 5 kilometers, creating panic in the area. Villagers rushed to the spot only to fine the family members in poll of blood.

The injured were referred to the GMC hospital, where one of the critically wounded Kulvir Singh succumbed to his wounds.

The injured Dalip Kour wife of Harbans Singh, Harbans Singh son of Lakh Singh, Updesh Kour wife of Avinash Singh, Punit Pal son of Ashwani Singh and Bhupinder Singh. Another injured Avinash Singh son of Harbans Singh succumbed to his injuries at GMC Hospital.

Police said that it has recovered piece of a shell, a hammer and iron pins from the site of the blast. Preliminary investigation reveals that the family members were fiddling with the shell when it exploded.

However, police said that it was investigating the matter. “Who brought the shell in the house is yet to be ascertained”,” police sources said, adding that the injured were in a position to be questioned

Ayodhya Verdict Govt evolves multi-phased strategy to ensure law and order across Jammu VDC’s being disarmed; Army to be on standby

Greater Kashmir

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, Sept 20: Under a well formulated strategy to meet any eventuality in view of the up coming Ayodhya verdict, on September 24, Jammu and Kashmir government is contemplating to disarm Village Defence Committees (VDCs) besides putting army on standby in most of the communally sensitive areas of Jammu region.

Official sources told Greater Kashmir that the civil and police administration has formulated joint strategy to be adopted in case there is any communal threat in any parts of the region. While the police has been asked to keep eye on the “suspicious” characters, the district administration is in constant touch with the prominent citizens and respectable persons of the society, having influence over the local population.

If sources are to be believed, some intelligence agencies have alerted the government regarding possibility of communal tension in some of the areas of Jammu region in the aftermath of the verdict on Babri Masjid-Ram Janambhomi dispute.

Keeping in view the inputs the regional civil and police administration was burning mid night oil to ensure fool proof security arrangements.

If sources have to be believed the district administration Doda was contemplating to withdraw official weapons from all the VDCs in the district. Police and civil administration held series of meetings on the matter but final decision is yet to be taken, sources said. “Final decision is expected to be taken in a meeting tomorrow”, sources claimed.

“Deputy Commissioner Doda held a four hour long meeting with police, army and CRPf officials to chalk out the strategy”, sources said adding that the army authorities were requested to remain vigilant and to help civil administration in maintaining law and order in their respective areas.

The official said that the police personnel assisted by of CRPF will be deployed in the sensitive areas, especially in rural areas, where the civil administration apprehend violent clashes.

“The magistrates will supervise the security arrangements in various sensitive areas,” official informed.

When contacted, Deputy Commissioner (Doda), Farooq Ahmed Khan, said that the every possible step was being taken to handle any kind of eventuality. He said that the administration has also been seeking help of prominent citizens and religious heads of the two communities in maintaining peace in the region.

Similar measures were also being taken in other parts of the region.

KISHTWAR

The mountainous Kishtwar district has been put on high alert in view of the communal sensitivity of the area. The district administration has divided the township into seven zones.

Elaborating the arrangements Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar GR Bhagat told Greater Kashmir that army has also been asked to provide six columns so that their services can be utilized, in case of any eventuality.

He informed that army troopers will not be not be deployed on the streets but instead they will be kept on hold any will be used on in need.

“The army columns will be kept at helipad, situated within the township, so that they can respond immediately, if need arises”, he said.

RAJOURI

Though the people in this border township have set best examples of communal harmony in recent days, the district administration is taking some precautionary measures.

“We are planning to impose section 144 in Rajouri district after seeking permission from the government, after the verdict in announced by Allahabad bench of Lucknow High Court”, Deputy Commissioner Rajouri said.

“We have also sought help of the religious leaders and members of civil society,” he added.

POONCH

Peace committees are being set up in the districts to maintain communal harmony and law and order.
"We have decided to set up peace committees in order to maintain communal harmony, peace and law and order to nip any possible communal flare up," Deputy Commissioner Poonch, Kuldeep Khajuria.
The Poonch district has been divided into 26 zones and all these zones will have peace committee with prominent citizens, religious persons and people of various faiths and walks of life with a government officer deputed for liaison.
"The process has already begun in this regard. We are expecting to have these committees formed by Wednesday," Khajuria said.
These committees will be instrumental in creation of communal harmony and brotherhood, maintain peace and help police and administration in maintaining law and order.
Jammu

The administration in the winter capital has also put security apparatus on alert, with the deployment of police and para-military troopers in sensitive areas, within the city and its out skirts to foil any clash.

Police and district administration is also engaged in meetings with the civil society and prominent organizations of the city.

Kathua

The deputy commissioner (Kathua) told Greater Kashmir that the administration has kept close vigil on the situation and the administration has conducted number of meetings with the members of both the communities, urging them to maintain communal harmony.

“Religion is a matter of personal faith and we must respect verdict,” the deputy commissioner said.

SMGS paediatrics department awaits shifting since 2008 ‘EQUIPMENT GATHERS RUST’

Greater Kashmir

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, June 22: Two years after the building for separate paediatrics department was completed in Shri Maharaja Gulab Singh Hospital here, the authorities have yet to shift the department, causing the newly procured state-of-the-art equipment to rust.

Officials say the shortage of required manpower was the only hurdle for starting the department in the new structure, which was completed in 2008 during the tenure of then chief minister, Ghulam Nabi Azad.
Hundreds of children are being treated per day at SMGS, the only hospital in Jammu to have full fledged paediatrics department.
“The new building stands completed in all respect, but the department could not be shifted because of the lack of required staff,” official sources said adding the new building had the capacity of nearly 200 beds, besides separate OPD and would be equipped with latest diagnostic equipments.
The equipments, already procured is gathering dust, because the management is yet to arrange the skilled hands and doctors to make the department functional, sources said.
“Some of the machines have rusted since they are not in use,” sources alleged.
The authorities were contemplating to shift some of the paramedics and doctors from other departments before shifting the paediatrics department, sources said adding, however the shortage of staff in other department was another problem confronting the management.
The 550-bedded hospital, on an average, has 800 to 1,000 indoor patients on any given day. So far this year, it has witnessed 155 deaths of infants, neonates and children in the paediatrics department while three deaths of women have been reported in the gynaecology and obstetrics department

Jammu & Kashmir: Peace march by Jammu civil society

Greater Kashmir

Syed Amjad Shah

Jammu (India) July, 14: Joined by intellectuals, politicians, educationists, socialists and student organisations, the Jammu and Kashmir Peace Front (JKPF) took out a peace march here on Tuesday, insisting government to stop human rights violations in Kashmir valley.

The activists assembled at the Exhibition Ground this morning and staged a peace march which passed through various market places before culminating at Shaheedi Chowk. Shouting slogans and holding placards, the protestors were demanding immediate revocation of Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) and reduction of troops in Valley.

Addressing the rally, former MP Sheikh Abdul Rehman and chairman of the Peace Front alleged that some vested interests on both sides of the border were creating hurdles in the peace process between India and Pakistan and resolution of Kashmir issue.

There is a need to create conducive atmosphere for talks for which the Government of India has to initiate some confidence building measures. While stressing on the friendly relationship between India and Pakistan, he also urged people to maintain communal harmony in all odds.

“Communal elements and vested interests are damaging peace process in the state,” he said adding, “The turmoil has created several vested interests among bureaucracy, security forces and politicians,” convener of the Front, I D Khajuria said.

The Jammu and Kashmir issue, he said, is a political one and has nothing to do with the issues concerning development and employment, as being projected by some politicians. “There is urgent need of unity among the people of the state for early resolution of the vexed issue,” he said.

While condemning brutal use of force on innocent civilians, Dheeraj, vice-president of Progressive Students Association (PSA) said that justice needed to be done for restoration of peace in the region.

For last two decades of violence, he said, over one lakh people have lost their lives and most of them were innocent. “Suppression of Kashmiri people by the Indian security forces and mass killings have become a routine in Valley”, he said while seeking a direct involvement of people of the state in the peace process between India and Pakistan.

Advocate JA Qazmi, national general secretary Internationalist Democratic Party Narinder Singh Khalsa, educationist Prof Zahur-ud-Din, Des Raj, Hurriyat (M) leader Moulana Ghulam Nabi Faridabadi, Ghulam Ahmad Mir, Santosh Khajuria of Mahela Adhikar Sanghatan, Jan Jagriti Manch member Serohi, Anwar Chowdhary Advocate and leader of Gojar United Front, Sardar Deep Singh, Pritam Gupta, Advocate Subhash Samyal, Ram Singh Chouhan, Amrit Varsha, JS Mangal and Kuldeep Pandita from Thinkers Forum were among those who addressed the peace march.

Cong high-command, CM seek explanation from Sharma, Minister holds meet to prepare defense

Greater Kashmir

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, Dec 7: Congress high command and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has reportedly asked the health minister Sham Lal Sharma to explain his position over his controversial remarks, which has already snowballed into a major controversy and an embarrassment for coalition government.

The Minister Sham Lal Sharma and his close aides were now reportedly preparing a defensive plan so as to avoid any further damage and a meeting in this regard in Jammu on Tuesday evening.

“Explanation has been sought from Sharma by both Congress high command and the CM”, a Congress minister, preferring anonymity told Greater Kashmir. He said that the Chief Minister may also examine the video evidence of the public meeting at Bani, where the minister made the controversial statement.

In the meanwhile, minister and his close aides in the party met here on Tuesday to prepare a `defensive strategy’. “The meeting was attended by at least five Congress leaders including the minister”, sources said adding, “It was decided that a collective effort be made to avoid any further damage”.

Sources revealed that Madan Lal Sharma reached for New Delhi and is expected to prepare a defensive ground within the party at union capital. He has also asked some of the senior party leaders from the state to back up the minister at this crucial time.

“The minister is also expected to leave for union capital on Wednesday”.

Interestingly, the Pradesh Congress Committee (PCC) Chief Prof Saif-ud-Din Soz was defending the minister.

Udhampur-Katra-Qazigund Railway Track Acquate infrastructure to come up in advance: IG Railways

Greater Kashmir

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, Dec 9: Inspector General Police (Railway) on Thursday said the railway police was contemplating to meet security arrangement and raise security related infrastructure all along the Udhampur-Katra-Qazigund railway, well before the laying of railway track,.

“This time railway police have planned to put-in-place the required security arrangements, infrastructure, and other things all along the surveyed area, well in advance, from Udhampur-Katra-Qazikund railway track for the safety of the cops and tracks,” IG (Railway) Naveen Kumar Aggarwal told Greater Kashmir.

The IG (Railway) said that earlier the department had not planned security arrangements during the laying of Jammu-Udhampur railway track due to which the police personnel at some identified points have been facing problems like non-availability of electricity, drinking water and guard rooms.

During inspection of the Udhampur-Jammu railway track today, he said, he was pleased with alertness being observed by the railway police on the track.

“The concerned authorities who accompanied me during security checking were directed to construct more guard rooms, made available electricity, drinking water and other things of daily use for the facility of the cops who have been performing their duty in difficult terrains, near the tunnels and other places of security importance,” the senior police officer said.

Saying the railway police needs more cops for strengthening security grid in the sensitive areas, particularly around the railway tunnels, , the department would soon meet the shortage of cops and deploy adequate number of them at the required points.

MYSTERY SHROUDS KASHMIRI STUDENT'S ‘DISAPPEARANCE’ POLICE CLUELESS, FAMILY SEEKS CM’S INTERVENTION

Greater Kashmir

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Smaller

Jammu, May 23: With police failing to trace the Kashmiri student who went missing here on May 14, the family has sought the chief minister, Omar Abdullah’s intervention.
An MBBS student at the Acharya Shri Chandra Medical College here, Syed Zuhaib Rizvi from Nabdipora area of Hawal in Srinagar, was initially reported to have jumped into the Mansar Lake on May 14 after police found his wallet near its banks.
Since then, the police and army had launched a hunt to recover the body, but have so far been unsuccessful.
The family has now sought Omar Abdullah’s intervention. “We want the chief minister and director general of police to intervene in the matter and let us know about the fate of our child,” said the family members of Zuhaib.
Zuhaib’s mother and sister have demanded a through investigation into the matter. “He (Zuhaib) is an intelligent boy. We know him better than anybody else. And we are sure that he won’t take any extreme step so far has his life is concerned. We want the CM and DGP to personally intervene in the matter and tell us about his whereabouts,” they said.
They said police was “reluctant” to lodge an FIR in the case.
Sources said a missing report was filed in Sidhra Police Post following college principal’s letter to the police. They said Zuhaib’s inmates had informed the college warden that he was missing.
A senior police officer said they had launched a massive hunt to trace Zuhaib. “For the past five days, we are carrying out under-water search in the Mansar lake to locate the body. But we are yet to recover it,” the officer, pleading anonymity, said.
When contacted, the deputy inspector general of police, Jammu-Kathua range, Farooq Khan and inspector general of police (Jammu) didn’t respond to repeated calls from Greater Kashmir.
Pertinently the DIG is supervising the investigation in the case.
The boy has lost his father Syed Nisar Rizvi in a tragic incident 11 years ago.

Reconciliation: Jaiswal hosts dinner for Omar

Greater Kashmir

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, Dec 9: Following the recent controversary that forced army to seek apology from the state Chief Minister, army’s Northern Command hosted a dinner for Omar Abdullah at Udhampur, on Thursday evening.

Informed sources said that the chief minister Omar Abdullah was invited by the chief of Northern Command, Lieutenant General BS Jaiswal on dinner, this evening.

“Following directives from the union ministry, the chief of Northern army hosted the dinner for chief minister in the backdrop of `statement controversy’”, sources said. The Chief Minister, they claimed, reached Udhampur, by road, at around 7:30 p.m. He, however, returned late in the evening.

Both army and government officials, however, said that the dinner was a routine matter and there was “nothing special about it”. “Army had organised a function, where CM was invited as guest”, a senior government functionary said.

Pertinently, Jaiswal had apologised to Chief Minister for a press note criticising his government for removing bunkers.

An Army spokesperson from Udhampur command had issued a release criticising the state government for removal of bunkers and reduction of troops strength from Srinagar city.

The statement, issued on the day an encounter took place on the outskirts of Srinagar city in which three militants and a policeman were killed, claimed that the encounter had taken place only because of removing of bunkers by Omar government, which was 'compelled to give in' and that it could have 'pleased a few hardline separatists and their ISI handlers'.

However, Jaiswal had sought apology from the chief minister, while maintaining that “the views expressed were personal predilections of a junior officer”.

On return, Jammu employees praise Kashmiris hospitality Blame forces of atrocities, fueling unrest

Greater Kashmir

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, Aug 5: Keeping high traditions of hospitality, the people in Kashmir, despite facing severe shortage of essential commodities in wake of continues curfew and bandhs , treated Jammu based government employees and teachers as their guests, even if, they (Kashmiri families) do not have sufficient food for themselves.

Contrary to the rumors being spread here, a government teacher posted in the valley told Greater Kashmir on the conditions of anonymity that during his stay he was treated by his neighbors as their guest and family member.
Impressed with their tradition of hospitality, the teachers and other government employees of Jammu (who returned recently) prayed for the early solution of vexed Kashmir dispute so that the people of Kashmir and Jammu regions could leave a peaceful and prosperous life.
Des Raj (name changed), a government teacher said the false information was being spread by vested interests in Jammu that minorities were in danger and they were being harassed by the people. “I feel ashamed as no concern was raised by the most of the Jammu based political parties and other organizations, expect few. They instead, gave contradictory statements which is creating wedge among the people of two regions,” Raj rued.
Accusing the CRPF troopers of harassing the government employees, the employees alleged that they were being beaten and most of the time, were not allowed to reach their respective offices.
Despite orders from the government to attend offices, the aggrieved government employees said some of them were possessing curfew passes but were allegedly not allowed to reach their respective place of duties by the CRPF troopers in most of the parts.
“We were shocked with their response and when we reached Jammu, most of us heard that government employees were stopped by the protesters from performing duties,” Ravinder Kumar (name changed) of Bari Brahmana said, adding “The paramilitary troopers were responsible not the people as they (people) helped us during the turmoil period.”
“The family members in whose, house I have taken a room on rent treat me as a member of their family. I have been leaving at Sumbal Sonawari area. I spent two months of unrest in their house without any problem. I and my other colleagues were never harassed by the people, a Jammu based teacher said after he returned to his native village in district Samba.
Satvir Kumar Bhagat (name changed), told Greater Kashmir that he decided to return due to strict curfew imposed in the Bandipore by the local police and CRPF as they did not allow any movement, even if, one posses a curfew pass. I remained indoors for three days and later, decided to return home last night.
Posted at a government school in Sumbal Sonawari (Bandipura), Manohar Lal said: “The peace in Bandipore was breached with the killing of a young protester in police and CRPF firing at Naidkhai area nearly five days back, after which, demonstrations rocked the town and strict curfew was imposed by the police and paramilitary troopers later.
Before the killing, he said all the educational institutes and business establishments were functioning normally. However, the peaceful atmosphere in was vitiated by the ‘irresponsible’ forces after they attacked a group of peaceful protestors.
The forces should be controlled by the government, he stressed while saying the vicious spate of killing is going on in Kashmir where people protesting against killings were shot at leading to more deaths.
Romesh Chander (name changed), another government teacher posted at Srinagar said they were treated by the Kashmiris as if they (Jammu based teachers) were their guests or family members.

JMC, PCB at loggerheads over polythene disposal

Greater Kashmir

SYED AMJAD SHAH

JAMMU, July 20: While Jammu region grappling with menace of polythene, Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC) and Pollution Control Board (PCB)-two prime agencies enforcing its ban-are on loggerheads over the disposal of seized polythene bags with quintals of confiscated polythene awaiting its proper disposal.

“We had contacted to the PCB officials for the disposal of 14 quintals polythene bags seized from parts of Jammu region under municipality limits. However, the PCB did not seem to be serious to dispose off the seized polythene bags. Instead, it obliquely denied its disposal,” a senior JMC official alleged refusing his identity.

The quintals of polythene and banned plastic bags were seized from different places falling in JMC limits, since the drive against its complete ban started in May 2009, sources said.

He said that: “We have now decided to take up the matter with the divisional commissioner Dr Pawan Kotwal concerning its disposal.” The JMC officials said that: “It is not possible to note down the details of those from whom polythene bags are being seized during the drive.”

Refuting the allegations of the JMC, former PCB regional director said that: “PBC received a letter from the municipality over a month ago, in which, they (JMC) requested PCB to dispose off, the seized polythene bags.”

The then PCB regional director said, the PCB denied disposal of the seized polythene, on the account, that they (JMC) had not completed formalities before the disposal i.e. confiscation was not conducted by them before coming to the board.

“We have asked the JMC authorities through a letter to conduct confiscation of the seized polythene bags first and it would be disposed off,” he said, while saying that the confiscation is the legal term, under which, ownership right is ended or to give a chance under law, to those from whom, the prohibited polythene is seized to prove their innocence.

Giving example, he said the nearly 8 such cases of confiscation in district Kathua have come up and legal notices to them have been served giving them a chance to prove their innocence or end their ownership right over the seized material i.e. polythene bags.

As off now, they have not done it, he again alleged. “Municipal authorities should have confiscated the seized material with the help of district officers but they have not done it due to which, the seized bags could not be disposed off,” he said.

Notably, the driver against the polythene bags was started in the month of May, 2009 after the ban imposed in Jammu and Kashmir State by the high court. Despite that over two dozen factories are manufacturing the bags illegally across Jammu city in different parts. Nearly 80 percent of the polythene bags, after the ban in JK is being imported from Punjab illegally viz road.

SRTC fleet ready to join public transport in Srinagar, Jammu

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, May 12: The Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) is likely to receive pending installment of Rs 23 crore by the end of this month to purchase more buses, under the centrally sponsored Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission (JNURM).

Official sources told Greater Kashmir that the central government sponsored JNURM project has the provision for paying Rs 32 crores to each state transport corporation of the country to purchase buses and mini-buses. They said that JKSRTC has a proposal of purchasing a total of 150 buses, including 60 mini-buses and 90 low floor buses for city services in Jammu and Srinagar cities.

“An amount of Rs 5.94 crores has already been released by the centre as first installment,” official sources said, adding that “Nearly 25 buses were purchased with this amount to strengthen the fleet of new buses in the crises ridden JKSRTC.”

Out of 150 buses, official sources said that 25 low floor buses have reached at SRTC garage in Narwal, while another lot of 25 more buses laying at TATA garage in Gangyal are awaiting Pre-Delivery Investigation (PDI).

“After the PDI is conducted, the buses standing there will be handed over to the SRTC,” sources said, adding, “Nearly 50 more low floor buses for SRTC are standing at another TATA garage in Kalu Chak (Jammu) while rest of the buses will soon join the Corporation fleet with the release of central funds.”

Pertinently, a proposal of 150 buses, including mini-buses was prepared by the government to start SRTC buses services in Jammu and Srinagar cities to save the sinking corporation. The proposal envisaged introduction of a fleet of 75 city buses each in the twin capitals of Jammu and Srinagar.

Insiders said that out of total 150 vehicles, 60 mini-buses having the capacity of 18 passengers and 90 low floor buses with the sitting capacity of 52 will soon be seen running on the of Jammu and Srinagar city routes .

SRTC fleet ready to join public transport in Srinagar, Jammu

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, May 12: The Jammu and Kashmir State Road Transport Corporation (JKSRTC) is likely to receive pending installment of Rs 23 crore by the end of this month to purchase more buses, under the centrally sponsored Jawaharlal Nehru Urban Renewal Mission (JNURM).

Official sources told Greater Kashmir that the central government sponsored JNURM project has the provision for paying Rs 32 crores to each state transport corporation of the country to purchase buses and mini-buses. They said that JKSRTC has a proposal of purchasing a total of 150 buses, including 60 mini-buses and 90 low floor buses for city services in Jammu and Srinagar cities.

“An amount of Rs 5.94 crores has already been released by the centre as first installment,” official sources said, adding that “Nearly 25 buses were purchased with this amount to strengthen the fleet of new buses in the crises ridden JKSRTC.”

Out of 150 buses, official sources said that 25 low floor buses have reached at SRTC garage in Narwal, while another lot of 25 more buses laying at TATA garage in Gangyal are awaiting Pre-Delivery Investigation (PDI).

“After the PDI is conducted, the buses standing there will be handed over to the SRTC,” sources said, adding, “Nearly 50 more low floor buses for SRTC are standing at another TATA garage in Kalu Chak (Jammu) while rest of the buses will soon join the Corporation fleet with the release of central funds.”

Pertinently, a proposal of 150 buses, including mini-buses was prepared by the government to start SRTC buses services in Jammu and Srinagar cities to save the sinking corporation. The proposal envisaged introduction of a fleet of 75 city buses each in the twin capitals of Jammu and Srinagar.

Insiders said that out of total 150 vehicles, 60 mini-buses having the capacity of 18 passengers and 90 low floor buses with the sitting capacity of 52 will soon be seen running on the of Jammu and Srinagar city routes .

Jammu experiences scorching heat as mercury goes 6 degree above normal Maximum tempt reaches 45.5 Celsius, highest ever in last eight years

Greater Kashmir

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, May 25: The temperature in the plains of Jammu division on Tuesday was recorded 6 degree above normal as maximum temperature reach to 45.5 degree Celsius, highest ever in last eight years.

While the sudden increase in temperature has exposed the people to scorching heat, the Metrological department has predicted further increase in temperature in coming days. A steep increase in temperature is being witnessed in Jammu plains for a week now and there seems no respite in sight, given the Meteorological department’s negative weather forecast.

The chief scientist in the metrological department of Shere-Kashmir- University of Agriculture Science and Technical (SKUAST) Dr MK Khushu told Greater Kashmir that today’s maximum temperature was recorded at 45.5 degree Celsius while the last night minimum temperature was recorded at 23 degree Celsius.

He said that the maximum temperature reached to this level after eight years. “Last time the maximum of 45.5 degree Celsius was recorded in the year 2002 and prior to that the mercury reached to this level in the year 1998 and 198” the chief scientist said.

He said that there was no sign of relief from the baking heat in near future as the temperature will further increase in coming days . Notably, yesterday the temperature was 43.2 degree Celsius and on Saturday it was 44.2 degree Celsius.

The scorching heat being experienced in plains of Jammu for a week now have affected normal life by forcing people to remain indoors.

People get respite as rains lash Jammu city

Greater Kashmir

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, June 22: Heavy to light rains lashed Jammu city and its outskirts, late Tuesday evening, bringing much relief to the people from soaring temperature being experienced from last four days.

Notwithstanding the persistent high temperature till late afternoon as soon as, dusty winds started blowing across Jammu here this evening, the sky became cloudy resulting into heavy to light rain that continued for about an hour.

The marginal rain fall after a long lull gave respite to the people, who were facing the sizzling heat conditions started since over a week.

The Met officials said that the locally developed clouds caused sudden rain fall in the Jammu due to which, the temperature took a dip giving respite to the people.

“Usually rain fall occurs in Jammu due to western disturbance but today rain lashed the city and its outskirts due to locally developed clouds,” the officials said, adding “It was unpredictable.”

Earlier, in the morning the day begin with clear sky with temperature intensifying till noon to 43.4 degree Celsius. But as the dusk starts to fall in the eastward winds started blowing across the city that helped in accumulation of dense clouds.

Since the atmosphere had sufficient moisture, the low pressure was developed in the mountains paving way for the unexpected rains, the met officials said, while predicting more light showers on June 24, and 25. They, however, ruled out pre-monsoon showers in the state.

Kishtwar National Park awaits demarcation from last 28 years Rehabilitation of 40, 000 population main stumbling blocks

Greater Kashmir

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, May 1: It may sound strange but it is true that the area of National Park at Kishtwar, notified way back in the year 19 82, is yet to be demarcated as all over these years the government has failed to report on final determination of right and equitation of land.

The main stumbling block in carrying out the demarcation is the issue of rehabilitation of the population living in the notified area whose number has swelled to over 40, thousand over these years.

Initially, 400 Sq km area was proclaimed as National Park in the year 1981 under a government order with the objective to protect and conserve the rich range of wild life species found in the area. The forest tracts spread along North of the mountainous Kishtwar Township are home to Kashmiri Stag, Musk Deer, Snow Leopard, Marhhor and Ibex.

But over all these years the authorities at the helm of affairs have failed to check on the human interference in the park area, the first condition considered globally as imperative in the case of protected areas. The official figures show that over 40 thousand population is presently living along the length and breadth of the notified area.

Highly placed officials in the wild life department told Greater Kashmir that till date not even a single order was issued by the authorities for the rehabilitation of the population living in the park area, leaving the national park and endangered species of wild animals to the mercy of God.

“It would be almost impossible to rehabilitee the uprooted families to a new place as there is no such plan with the government,” officials in the wild life department told Greater Kashmir huge population, that to in absence of a comprehensive plan adding that the people would also not be ready to leave the forest area in which they have been living since centuries.

“The government of India has included Kishtwar National Park among the 13 snow leopard reserves of the country and out of the four snow leopard reserves of the state, this (Kishtwar national park) park is the only representative of the Himalayan zone,” sources said, adding that “though the it was declared as a National Park, in the year 1981 vide government order number FST/20 of 1981, all the norms being observed at such protected areas are being thrown to the wind. The sources said that so far three notifications were issued since the area was declared as national park, but every time the area limits of the park was different.

Sources said that while in the notification orders issued from the office of deputy commissioner in the year 1982 and 1988 mentions the area of the park as 400 Sq kms , another order issued by the same office in the year 1999terms the area as 425 Sq kms. However, when the government invited the objections from the public in the year 2003, a fresh order was issued reducing the notified are of the park to just 179.80 Sq kms, sources added.

KBA president hospitalized in Jammu

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, Aug 27: The Kashmir Bar Association president Main Abdul Qayoom, lodged at Hiranagar Jail, has been shifted to Chopra Nursing home at Bakshi Nagar for treatment, after he complained of ill health, sources said.

Mian Abdul Qayoom, who has been detained under Public Safety Act (PSA) at Hiranagar jail, was not feeling well from past few days and was shifted to Chopra Nursing Home yesterday, sources said.

The KBA president had complained about his ill health few days back, Jail authorities decided to admit him at the Chopra nursing home at Bakshi Nagar (Jammu), they added

Sources said that he has been lodged in room number 204 in the nursing home under tight security arrangement.

“A double police guard with eight cops is guarding the room of the nursing home round the clock,” sources told Greater Kashmir.

Sources said that he has been diagnosed with gastrointestinal problem for which doctors are administering him treatment adding that his condition is improving. However, he was still under medical examination, till the filling of this report.

Notably, Qayoom was shifted to the nursing home yesterday from Hiranagar jail. He was detained under PSA after massive protests erupted in Kashmir valley on June 11.

Steeping up deployment with high-tech gadgets BSF to intensify vigil during winters

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, Oct 15: In view of approaching winter season, the Border Security Force (BSF) have intensified vigil along the border by increasing manpower and equipping forces with latest gadgets, to foil infiltration attempts from across the border.

Inspector General (BSF) S. Chattopadhyay told reporters here at Paloura BSF Camp on the sideline of a function organised to mark the celebrations of Durga Pooja.

Disclosing that the number of infiltration bids witnessed an increase this year as compared to last year, the newly appointed IG frontier said “Atleast 36 infiltration bids have been made till June 31 this year against 26 such bids during last full year.”

He said, the BSF have identified some of the ‘sensitive areas’ from where intrusions are likely to take place.

“These sensitive areas have been strengthened with additional deployments and installation of equipments to keep a constant check on the infiltration attempts,” the IG BSF said and added that the BSF have been consolidating its defense.

However, he said that the BSF troopers are prepared to face any challenge possessed to them during winter season due to low visibility and dense fog.

“We will strengthen our guards along the border and provide latest equipments like night vision devices to over come the problem of low vision during the winter season,” he informed, while saying that the BSF was in process of purchasing new bullet proof jackets, bullet proof vehicles, and other equipments to strengthen with the infiltration bids.

Terming the move of darbar to Jammu from Srinagar as a challenge, he said, the concentration of security shifts from Srinagar with the move of darbar to Jammu and BSF is prepared to face it and to curb any ‘anti-national’ activities.

Referring to the cease fire violations by Pak troopers, he said that the incidents of firing on the Indian posts took place mainly on the Independence Day.

Instead of firing, he said, sweets were exchanged on the border this year, during festivals and independence days of the two countries as a good will gesture.

He also said that there was some change in their (Pakistan rangers) attitude and they also help to diffuse situation on the border.

Admitting that the fence have damaged at several places due to recent flash floods, he said most of the damaged portions have been repaired and rest will repaired in the coming days.

He informed that the Director General of BSF will head a delegation to Lahore in the month of October as part of the quarter yearly exercise to discuss certain issue which could not be solved at the lower level.

Shah asks Pakistan to withdraw from PAK Seeks Obama’s intervention in solving Kashmir dispute

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, Nov 4: Jammu and Kashmir Democratic Freedom Party chairman and senior Hurriyat leader Shabir Ahmed Shah said on Thursday that not only India but Pakistan should also demilitarize the areas of Jammu and Kashmir under its control, including Baltistan and Gilgit.

After the demilitarization, Shah said that right of self-determination should be given to the people of entire Jammu and Kashmir to decide their fate, as they (people of J&K) are the prime sufferers of the decade’s old ‘dispute’.

US PRESIDENT BARAK OBAMA

Shah while seeking intervention of US President Barak Obama to facilitate smooth trilateral talks between India, Pakistan and the prime party i.e. Kashmiris -who have been ignored since long- for the resolution of Kashmir issue.

Reminding United States of America (USA) President Barak Obama of his promise, the senior Hurriyat leader said “During his election campaign for US presidentship he had promised to solve the vexed Kashmir issue if he comes to the power.”

“If the US intervention in the resolution of Kashmir issue is not possible, the US president should atleast facilitate talks between the two neighbouring countries and the Kashmiri leadership,” he demanded.

Recalling the words of US president, he said Obama had maintained that the US would possibly appoint an envoy on Kashmir issue like Holbrooke was appointed as envoy to Afghanistan and Pakistan.

“The name of former US President Bill Clinton had also figured for his appointment as envoy to Kashmir to which the Hurriyat had welcomed,” he said. He demanded appointment of an envoy in India-Pakistan for the solution of Kashmir dispute.

CEASE FIRE IN VALLEY SOUGHT

Asking Indian government to declare cease fire, Shabir Shah said, “Talks and war cannot go side-by-side. The government should declare cease fire in Valley to facilitate talks for the resolution of Kashmir dispute.

If the government is serious to solve the issues, it should acknowledge Kashmir an international dispute and release all the separatist leaders and youth lodged in different jails.

“Kashmir Bar Association chief Mian Qayoom, KBA general secretary, South Kashmir Mirwiz, Duktrane-Millat chief Asia Andravi, and Hamida, besides many others, including schooling going children have been put in jails. They should be released for paving the way for a meaningful dialogue,” he demanded.

ADVOCATED UNIFIED JAMMU AND KASHMIR

While advocating the united and integrated Jammu and Kashmir, Shah accused politicians of trying to create a wedge among the people of Jammu and Kashmir regions for their political gains.

“They are trying to create wedge among the people of Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh regions,” he alleged and appealed the intelligentsia of Jammu region to understand those ‘who have made politics their business/profession’ and are indulging in creating differences among the people of the three regions.

The Hurriyat will not leave the people of Jammu region alone including Kathua, Samba, Jammu, Poonch, Rajouri, Doda, Kishtwar, and Ramban, he said adding that the Jammu and Kashmir will remain united.

“I want to pay tributes to those 5-6 lakh people killed in 1947 violence and assured people of the state that their blood will not go waste. We will take the people of Jammu with us, he added.

Reacting to the recent visit of interlocutors to Jammu and Kashmir, the senior Hurriyat leader said that talks will be ineffective unless congenial atmosphere was created.

“The talks with the interlocutors appointed by the central government will not be fruitful unless the ground is prepared by acknowledging Kashmir as a dispute and releasing of prisoners,” he said.

The Hurriyat leader said “We are not against talks but how come we could hold talks when hundreds of people including teenagers and leaders are jailed without any charges.”
It may be mentioned here that the central government had appointed three interlocutors last month, including an eminent journalist Dileep Padgaonkar, Information Commissioner M. M. Ansari and an academician Professor Radha Kumar to hold talk with the cross section of society in Jammu and Kashmir.

He said: “I request Indian people to stay by the promise of giving right to self determination to people of Kashmir, made by first Prime Minister of India Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru.”

He however, expressed apprehensions that the interlocutors might also not meet the same fate, as happened to the Kashmir committee appointed during the reign in centre by the NDA.

Police cracks mystery behind burning of 3 women Dy CM’s relative among 3 arrested

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, Sept 27: Police Monday claimed to have worked out the mystery behind burning of three women at village Gadgyal in Khour block of border township Akhnoor, with the arrest of three persons including a relative of the Deputy Chief Minister, Tara Chand.

Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Jammu-Kathua range, Farooq Khan told reporters, here today that the arrested persons wanted to maintain illicit relations with the victims to which they have strongly objected. Later the accused made an attempt to burn three women alive, identified as Krishna Devi, (55), her daughter, Rajni Devi (23) and their relative, Kajol (12), all residents of village Gadgyal by sprinkling kerosene while they were sleeping at their residence.

During the intervening night of September 2 and 3, 2010 the accused crossed over the boundary wall of Krishan Devi wife attempted to kill the victims by setting them on fire after sprinkling kerosene oil when they were sleeping in the front yard of the house, police said.

Following the incident, police registered a case at the concerned police station and started investigation, the DIG said.

He, however, said that the police investigation delayed as the victims were unable to give their statements to the investigating team as they were seriously wounded in the incident.

Despite all odds, he said that police started investigation and quizzed all the inhabitants of Gadgyal village in a bid to get some lead in the blind case.

The senior police officer said that the investigating team got a lead when they called Parkash Chand alias Kaka (50) son of Gullu Ram of the same village for questioning.

“The police became suspicious on finding a burn on the leg of Parkash as he was unable to give clear details about the injury to his interrogators, Farooq Khan said, while saying that he was put to sustained questioning during which the suspect broke down and confessed to have committed the crime.

In the process, the DIG said, his two accomplices were also detained and they too were questioned in police custody.

“Rashpal (35) son of Kamal Raj and Gharu Ram (25) son of Chaman Dass of Badyal village were interrogated and they too confessed their involvement in the case, DIG Farooq Khan claimed.

They (accused) disclosed that they wanted to maintain illicit relations with the deceased woman but the victim objected to their advances. He said to avenge the refusal by the woman they sprinkled kerosene oil on the sleeping and set them ablaze.

The DIG said both the deceased and one of the accused are relatives of the Deputy Chief Minister. He however, claimed, “The minister has no connection with the case as there was no political pressure during the course of investigation. The Deputy Chief Minister’s wife hails from the same village.”

The DIG said that the team of officials, including SDPO (Akhnoor) Mustaq Ahmed, SHO Khour, Additional SP Mohan Lal and SSP Jammu Basant Kumar Rath, who cracked the mystery behind the dastardly act, will be recommended for award.

Notably, Krishan Devi and her daughter Rajni succumbed to the burn injuries on September 18, 2010 at GMC hospital, while critically burnt Kajal, daughter of Romesh Chander has been under going medical treatment at GMC.

SMGS’s new pediatrics deptt yet to take off

SYED AMJAD SHAH

Jammu, June 21: The fate of new `highly equipped’ pediatric department of Shri Maharaja Gulab Singh (SMGS) Hospital Jammu is hanging in balance even after the new building constructed to establish the separate department stand completed in 2008.

If officials have to be believed the short of required manpower is the only hurdle for starting the department in newly constructed building. Hundreds of children are being treated per day at SMGS, the only hospital in Jammu to have full fledged pediatrics department.

“The new building stands completed in all respects but the department could not be shifted because of the lack of required staff,” official sources said adding that the new building has the capacity of nearly 200 beds besides separate OPD section and it is equipped with latest diagnostic equipments.

The equipments and other infrastructure at par with other sections of SMGS hospital available in the ward, is gathering dust”, because the hospital management is yet to arrange the skilled hands and doctors to make it functional, sources said.

“Some of the machines have rusted with the passage of time, since they are not in use and laying unattended in a careless manner,” sources alleged, adding that the hospital authorities are not much worried about the abandoned building, completed when Ghulam Nabi Azad was the chief minister of Jammu and Kashmir.

The department was contemplating to shift some of the paramedics and doctors from other departments before shifting the department, sources said adding, however the shortage of staff in other department is another problem confronting the hospital management.

The 550-bedded hospital, on an average, has 800 to 1,000 indoor patients on any given day. So far this year, it has witnessed 155 deaths of infants, neonates and children in the paediatrics department while three deaths of women have been reported in the gynaecology and obstetrics department.